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Autumn is almost here and we're embracing the cooler weather! Whether you're looking for some fun outdoor activities or are just getting ready for the season, we have informative editorial throughout. Long Island is home to countless orchards, wineries, parks and more, allowing residents and visitors alike the opportunity to make unforgettable memories in a beautiful setting. We hope you have a peaceful end of summer and enjoy all that the upcoming season has to offer.
Immaculate and highly sought-after Corsica model in the gated 55+ Vineyards at Blue Point community, offering over 2,300 sq ft of luxury living in a premium location with tranquil pond views and close proximity to the pool and clubhouse. Thoughtfully designed, this home features an inviting two-story entry foyer and a modern open floor plan with hardwood floors, 9-foot ceilings, central air, a living room with soaring ceilings and a gas fireplace. The main level offers everything you need: a formal dining room, eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, gas cooking, and center island, a living room, a hall bath, convenient laundry, and a spacious primary suite with tray ceiling, walk-in closet, second closet, and large en-suite bath. Upstairs includes a generously sized family room, guest suite and a full bathroom. Outside, relax on your beautiful paver patio and enjoy the view of the pond. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including a stunning clubhouse with great room, kitchen, gym, TV and game rooms, heated pool, bocce courts, fire pit, BBQ area, and more. Conveniently located near beaches, golf, shopping, restaurants, highways, train, and airport…a true must see.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage With Food
NationalHispanic Heritage Month is an annual, month-long celebration that begins on September 15 and lasts through October 15. The month recognizes the culture, history and contributions of American citizens who can trace their lineages to Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. There are many ways to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, including by enjoying culturally relevant foods. There’s no shortage of great recipes to enjoy during Hispanic Heritage Month, including this one for “Mixed Tostadas” from “The Complete Mexican, South American & Caribbean Cookbook” (Metro Books) by Jane Milton, Jenni Fleetwood and Marina Filippelli. Tostadas are like edible plates that can support many ingredients, as long as they aren’t too juicy.
Mixed Tostadas
Makes 14
Oil, for shallow frying
14 freshly prepared unbaked corn tortillas
1 cup mashed red kidney or pinto beans
1 iceberg lettuce, shredded Olive oil and vinegar dressing (optional)
2 cooked chicken breast portions, skinned and thinly sliced
8 ounces guacamole
1 cup coarsely grated sharp cheddar cheese Pickled jalapeño chiles, seeded and sliced, to taste
Directions:
1. Heat the oil in a shallow frying pan and fry the corn tortillas, one by one, until golden brown on both sides and crisp but not hard.
2. Spread each tortilla with a layer of mashed pinto or kidney beans. Put a layer of shredded lettuce (which can either be left plain or lightly tossed with a little dressing) over the beans.
3. Arrange chicken slices on top of the lettuce. Carefully spread over a layer of the guacamole and finally sprinkle over the grated cheese.
4. Arrange the mixed tostadas on a large platter and serve immediately, while still warm. Use your hands to eat tostadas, as they are extremely messy.
Variations: Instead of chicken, try using shredded pork, ground beef or turkey, or sliced chorizo. For a more authentic taste, use queso fresco or feta cheese instead of cheddar.
Fall Hiking Tips
Fall hiking can be a unique and exciting experience. Thanks to the vibrant foliage, crisp air and smaller crowds than might be around during summer, fall is a prime time to lace up one’s boots and hit the trails.
Beyond the opportunity to check out the amazing foliage displays synonymous with this time of year, spending time outdoors in fall provides various health benefits. According to UAB Medical West, some benefits of hiking include improved
mental well-being, enhanced balance and improved muscle strength.
As with any hiking trip, it is key to plan ahead to enjoy a safe and enjoyable adventure this fall.
• Layer your clothing. Fall weather can be unpredictable and dramatic temperature fluctuations can occur between morning and afternoon. The trick is layering clothing to provide comfort and safety. Start with a moisturewicking base layer, add
an insulating layer like fleece for warmth, and top it with a waterproof and windproof outer shell. You can adjust your clothing as conditions change.
• Wear proper footwear to ensure ample traction. Opt for sturdy hiking shoes or boots with significant ankle support and excellent traction. Fallen leaves and rain or early-season ice can make paths slippery. Waterproof footwear is highly recommended. Wool socks (not cotton) will wick away moisture and provide warmth even when damp. According to a study on mountain hiking in the Austrian Alps, 75 percent of fall accidents occur on descents, so having extra traction can help.
• Mind the daylight. As fall inches closer to winter, daylight hours diminish rapidly. It’s easy to underestimate how quickly dusk arrives. Plan your route to account for your pace so you can be off the trail well before sunset. Pack a flashlight or headlamp just in case.
• Mind the habitat. Anytime you hike you should be mindful of the natural settings around you. Stick to the trails so you do not disturb delicate vegetation. Also, never feed wild animals. They can grow accustomed to an easy hand-out and lose their fear of humans, putting themselves at risk of harm. Remember to dispose of trash properly and always take out what you bring in.
• Stay fueled and hydrated. Despite the cooler temperatures of fall, dehydration may occur as the body loses fluid through exertion and respiration. Pack plenty of water and take sips regularly. Bring along energy-rich snacks like protein bars, trail mix and dried fruit to maintain energy levels throughout the excursion.
Fall hiking trips enable people to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the season while also getting some exercise and enjoying ample fresh air.
Long Island Hiking Trails Great For The Fall
Cold Spring Harbor State Park, Cold Spring Harbor
Cold Spring Harbor State Park is located within Cold Spring Harbor Village. The hiking trails are perfect for beginners and moderate hikers. Pets are welcome! The park is at 95 Harbor Rd, Cold Spring Harbor.
Bethpage State Park, Farmingdale
Bethpage State Park is on the border of Nassau and Suffolk County. Bethpage State Park is most known for golf and has hosted several national championships. There are
many trails of varying lengths, perfect for leisurely hikes or biking. The park is at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in Farmingdale.
Sands Point Preserve, Sands Point
Sands Point Preserve is filled with local history and scenic vistas. Sands Point Preserve has several different areas available for hiking. This includes a mile-long beach as well as forays into the woods.
Sands Point Preserve is at 127 Middle Neck Road in Sands Point.
Hempstead Lake State Park, West Hempstead
Hempstead Lake State Park is a great destination for hikers. The area’s natural beauty and relaxed trails make it a perfect spot for waterside hiking. The Hempstead Lake trail brings you throughout much of the park, around the central Hempstead Lake, Nassau County’s largest lake. Hempstead Lake State Park is located at Eagle Ave. in West Hempstead.
Sunken Meadow State Park, King’s Park
Sunken Meadow State
Park is one of Long Island’s most well-known hiking and beach spots. The three-mile waterfront is a beloved hiking area both for its views as well as the variety of the nearby terrain. Connected to the Long Island Sound with views of Connecticut. The most popular trail will take hikers nearly four miles through the local wildlife. Sunken Meadow State Park is located at New York State Reference Rte 908K, Kings Park.
To learn more about these parks and others, please visit https://parks.ny.gov/parks/
What Is The Autumnal Equinox?
Fall begins slightly after the midpoint of September. The arrival of fall may be met with joy that cooler temperatures and vividly colored leaves will soon be the norm. For others, the arrival of fall is met with some trepidation that shorter days will soon pave the way for less sunlight and the inevitable arrival of winter.
Fall begins on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 2:19 PM, in the Northern Hemisphere on what is known as the autumnal equinox. Equinoxes are days during the year when the hours of sunlight and darkness are just about equal, or lasting 12 hours each. At the moment the equinox occurs, the sun will be directly over the Earth’s equator, which contributes to this even distribution of day and nighttime hours. National Geographic describes the equinox as “the event in which a planet’s subsolar point passes through its Equator. It is when solar declination is 0 degrees.” Solar declination refers to the
latitude of Earth where the sun is directly overhead at noon. The equinoxes are the only times when both the northern and southern hemispheres experience roughly equal amounts of daytime and nighttime.
After the autumnal equinox, the subsolar point continues to move south as the southern hemisphere tilts toward the sun. Around December 21, the subsolar point hits the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5 degrees S), which marks the winter (December) solstice, or the day with the fewest hours of daylight during the year in the northern hemisphere.
It’s important to note that the equinoxes and solstices are opposite in the hemispheres. The northern hemisphere’s fall equinox occurs on the same day as the southern hemisphere’s vernal (spring) equinox.
The autumnal equinox is a time when hours of daylight and nighttime are equal, something that will not occur again until the arrival of spring.
Fall And Winter Skincare Tips
Assummer transitions to fall, many changes take place. In addition to changing landscapes, men and women may need to adapt their health and wellness habits to ensure that they stay healthy and happy. Part of that daily regimen includes how to care for skin as the seasons change. Just as skin requires certain protection from the sun and heat in the summer, skin has special needs in the fall and winter. Fall and winter are often characterized by cold, dry weather, which can make these times of year particularly challenging for people with dry or sensitive skin.
• Don’t Skip The Sunscreen. Sunscreen is not a summeronly requirement. UV rays can damage the skin any time of year, even if the rays are not as strong as during the summer. UV radiation accelerates and increases the risk of skin cancer. It also can lead to premature aging. Utilize a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.
• Invest In A Humidifier. Dry, cold temperatures can rob the skin of essential moisture, even indoors. Dermatologists suggest using a humidifier at home to boost the amount of moisture in the air. This can make skin more comfortable and can have other health benefits as well.
• Skip Hot Showers. It can be tempting to sit under a hot stream of water to warm up. However, hot water dries out the skin by depleting its stores of natural oils, says Glacier Med Spa.
• Limit Exfoliation. While exfoliation can remove dead skin, overdoing it can make already sensitive skin more raw. Increase the time between exfoliation treatments.
• Don’t Forget Your Lips. Using a thicker moisturizer on the body and face can help add and retain moisture, but pay attention to your lips and eyes as well. Something as simple as petroleum jelly on the lips can help prevent chapping.
Apple Picking Pointers
Visiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-the-tree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible.
According to the Economic
Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British
Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those looking to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime.
Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
• Do some research. Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
• Visit early. The best apples are often available early in the season before the trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
• Dress appropriately. Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven.
U-Pick Orchards Across Long Island
Spend the day exploring one of these orchards and pick your favorites right from the tree.
Breeze Hill Farm & Preserve
31215 County Road - Route 48, Peconic, 631-876-5159
Over 75 acres, they offer 26 varieties of apples.
Hank’s PumpkinTown 240 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, 631-726-4667
Long Islanders can pick a wide range of apples, including Ultimate Gala, McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Daybreak Fuji, Cortland,
Macoun, Empire, Snow Sweet, Jonagold, Autumn Gala, Cameo, SunCrisp, Mutsu and Autumn Rose Fuji.
Harbes Orchard
5698 Sound Ave., Riverhead, 631-683-8388
Apple Picking is available at Harbes’ Riverhead location, which has 15-acres of 27 types of apples on dwarf trees, including Honeycrisp, Daybreak Fuji, Gala and Gold Rush.
Harbes Farms Jamesport 1223 Main Road, Jamesport, 631-494-4796
Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly early in the day and then warmer later on.
• Pick correctly. Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
• Avoid bruising. It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
• Don’t overload. Only pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, overpicking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten.
After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer.
Honeycrisp apple picking is available at Harbes’ Jamesport location, has 7 acres of Honeycrisp apples on dwarf trees.
Jericho Cider Mill
213 Route 106, Jericho, 516- 433-3360
Lewin Farms 812 Sound Ave., Calverton, 631-929-4327
Long Islanders can pick their own Gala, Honeycrisp and Macoun apples.
Milk Pail U-Pick Farm 50 Horsemill Lane, Water Mill, 631-537-2565
Long Islanders can pick from their Jonamac, McIntosh, Sansa and Zestar.
Seven Ponds Orchard 65 7 Ponds Road, Water Mill, 631-726-8015
People can select Gingergold, Redfree and Zestar apples.
Wickham’s Fruit Farm 28700 Main Road, Cutchogue, 631-734-6441
Dating back to 1661, the farm is one of the largest on the North Fork and offers a wide selection of apples in their You Pick Farm.
Tips For Winterizing Exterior Living Areas
Whenthe summer entertaining season draws to a close, homeowners need to ensure their outdoor living areas can handle weather that’s right around the corner. Although outdoor furniture and other items tend to be durable, the impact snow, wind and ice can have on them may lead to damage over time. That is why many homeowners take steps to winterize their outdoor spaces and protect their belongings. Here’s a look at how to prepare for the winter to come.
• Furniture: Cover or store furniture to protect it from the elements. Covering it with weather-proof covers can be adequate if storing items indoors is not possible.
• Deep clean: Items that will be covered or stored should be thoroughly cleaned prior to being removed from spaces for the season. Lingering dirt and moisture can cause damage.
• Insulate and drain: Don’t risk damage to pipes, which can freeze and crack in the cold. Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets and drain water lines to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Use foam pipe insulation to prevent freezing and cover any exposed pipes.
• Apply mulch: After cleaning up garden debris, think about applying mulch to garden beds and cover tender
plants to protect them from the weather.
• Check gutters: Be sure that gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and any additional debris. If gutters and downspouts are not cleaned, ice dams may form on the roof and cause water damage.
• Inspect and repair: Inspect walkways and driveways for any damage and make repairs now so water will not seep in and cause further issues with freezethaw cycles. Consider applying a sealant to protect surfaces from snow and ice.
• Pools and spas: It’s essential to follow the industry or manufacturer recommendations for
closing down swimming pools and spas for the season. While covers may not be essential in all climates, covering can help prevent leaves and other debris from getting in the water. Water should be expelled from pipes and tubing to prevent freezing and bursting. If space allows, consider moving the pool pump indoors to prolong its longevity. Turn off the electricity to the outlet where the filter is plugged in.
There may be additional, region-specific steps to winterize a property, but these pointers are a good starting point to protect outdoor spaces.
A Guide To Fall Lawn Care For
Cool-Season Grasses
Springmight mark the time when many homeowners begin tending to their lawns each year, but it’s important to recognize the significance of fall lawn care as well. Grasses vary, and homeowners are urged to identify which type of grass is in their lawn so they can ensure it gets the care it needs before winter’s first frost. Coolseason grasses like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass are common in various regions, and the following strategies can help homeowners with these types of grasses tend to their lawns this fall.
• Stick to your recommended fertilization schedule. Homeowners who have been fertilizing since spring are urged to continue doing so in fall at the recommended interval. It’s easy to forget to fertilize
in fall thanks to cooler temperatures that don’t call lawn care to mind and busier schedules after school starts again and summer vacation season ends. But many fertilizer manufacturers advise users of their products to fertilize several times over the course of the year, including in fall. Stick to the intervals recommended on the packaging of the fertilizer you’ve been using, making sure not to forget to fertilize this fall.
• Conduct a soil test. A soil test can determine if the soil is lacking any nutritive elements it needs to come back strong in spring. Certain amendments can restore pH balance if necessary and foster stronger growth when lawns come back in spring.
• Aerate, if necessary. Soil
can become compacted over time, and that can cause a range of problems for a lawn. Compacted soil can make it harder for water to reach the roots of grass, which weakens grass and makes it more vulnerable to damage during adverse weather events like drought. Compacted soil also makes it harder for nutrients in fertilizer to get into the soil. Aerating is best left to professionals, particularly in larger lawns, as the job can foster strong root development when done
properly.
• Remove thatch where it’s excessive. Thin layers of thatch can benefit lawns by delivering nutrients from glass clippings and leaves to a lawn. However, when thatch is excessive, it can block air, water and even fertilizer from reaching the soil. Thatch often can be removed with a rake, but lawns with especially thick layers of thatch may need to be scarified. Homeowners can take a DIY approach to scarifying or hire a landscaping professional to dethatch the lawn and remove the thatch from their properties.
• Continue to water the lawn. A cool-season grass will continue to require water into the fall. Though the lawn won’t need to be watered as frequently in fall as in summer, various lawn care professionals note coolseason grasses still need roughly an inch of water each week in fall.
• Remove leaves as they fall. Fallen leaves can affect a lawn in much the same way as excessive amounts of thatch, blocking water and nutrients from reaching the soil. So it’s best to remove fallen leaves, especially when they begin to fall in large quantities.
Fall is an opportune time to tend to a lawn to increase the chances grass grows back strong in spring.
Fall Is Loaded With Opportunities To Have Fun
Itcan be bittersweet to say farewell to summer. Months of warm weather and sunshine are hard to beat and provide plenty of opportunities to rest and relax.
Just because summer has come and gone doesn’t mean the opportunity to enjoy recreation is in the rearview mirror. Fall is awash in opportunities to enjoy the fresh, inviting air and take part in the various activities that go hand-in-hand with this time of year.
Apple and pumpkin picking
Heading to a nearby orchard or farm and choosing fresh fruit is a hallmark of fall. In fact, these are some of the most popular places to visit on the weekends, as crowds of people clamber to grab their Granny Smith or Cortland apples. Call ahead to learn which varieties are ripe and plan to arrive early before the trees are picked clean. Apple orchards and pumpkin patches can be dusty, muddy or messy, so dress accordingly for the environment, including closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Keep in mind that many of these establishments are cash-only. Bring cash and expect to have your bounty weighed upon checkout.
Wine tasting
September and October are prime months for grape harvesting, which means local vineyards may host special tours and events to take advantage of their growing season. Fall also is a great time to visit a vineyard that offers tastings, as you can sit out in the sun and cool weather and enjoy a glass or two of the latest vintage.
Follow local vineyards on social media or get on their email lists to stay on top of upcoming events.
Leaf peeping
The gradual depletion of chlorophyll in tree leaves is responsible for the amazing and colorful display Mother Nature puts on each fall. Everyone is treated to vivid panoramas of reds, oranges, purples, and yellows, making them ideal all-natural photo backdrops. Plenty of people travel to more rural areas to witness leaves change color, and that means that country areas can get crowded. It always pays to plan a leafpeeping excursion for early in the day to account for the possibility of traffic along the route. Make an entire day of it by seeing the sights, grabbing lunch, and hitting a farmer’s market while out and about.
Fall fair
Many towns hold off on their annual fairs and
carnivals until the cooler months of the year. These are entertaining and boisterous events that can include everything from food and livestock contests to rides and amusements to musical performances.
As these fairs tend to last a couple of days to a week, it could be fruitful to look
Exerciseinto whether they sell multiday passes at a discount, particularly if you plan to attend a few times and maximize the fun.
Opportunities for fun abound each fall. With inviting weather and calendars full of seasonal offerings, now is an ideal time to enjoy the great outdoors.
Did You Know?
is just as beneficial for older adults as it is for children and young adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, engaging in regular physical activity is among the most important steps older adults can take as they seek to safeguard their overall health. Such activity can prevent or delay many age-related health problems and strengthen muscles while improving balance, which can reduce risk for falls and injuries such as broken bones. The CDC notes that certain physical activities can be characterized as multicomponent activities, which means they combine aerobic activity, muscle strengthening and balance training. Examples of such activities include dancing, yoga, tai chi, gardening, and even sports participation. Stay active!
Make Your Oktoberfest Celebration Unforgettable
Millionsof visitors travel to Munich, Germany, each year to take part in a celebration of Bavarian culture known as Oktoberfest. Although the name implies that the world’s largest Volksfest (people’s festival) occurs in October, the majority of Oktoberfest actually happen in September, and run from between 16 and 18 days. For 2025, Oktoberfest begins Saturday, September 20 and runs thru Sunday, October 5.
Though it may seem like Oktoberfest is just a beer festival, it’s actually a celebration of community, food and music. The origins can be traced back to October 12, 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese of SaxonyHildburghausen and the citizens of Munich were invited to celebrate the royal event outside of the city gates.
The following ideas are some ways to create your own unforgettable Oktoberfest celebration.
Erect a beer tent
Visitors to Oktoberfest in Munich will find massive beer tents, each operated by Munich’s traditional breweries. These are the only official beer providers of Oktoberfestbier. People replicating Oktoberfest
celebrations nearer to home can include beers by Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten-Franziskaner, and be sure to serve at least one Märzen-style lager at the celebration.
Offer popular culinary delights
Beyond the bevy of beer available, guests to an Oktoberfest celebration will anticipate traditional and hearty Bavarian specialities. Options include hendl (roast chicken), schweinebraten (roast pork), würstl (sausages), and brezen (pretzels). Side dishes like potato salad, sauerkraut and red cabbage also are popular.
Wear the right folk attire
Traditional Oktoberfest attire includes lederhosen for men and dirndls for women. Lederhosen consists of leather
Enjoy A Honey Of A Breakfast
Mshorts, often with suspenders, worn with a checkered shirt. A dirndl is a dress consisting of a bodice, blouse, skirt, and apron.
Set the scene
Many people wonder why the official colors of Oktoberfest are blue and white, despite this not matching the colors of the German flag. In fact, Oktoberfest builds its color scheme around the Bavarian flag. Bavaria is a state within Germany. It is one of the 16 states that make up the Federal Republic of Germany, and it has its own traditions, dialect, cuisine, and more.
Play Oktoberfest music
Traditional Bavarian oompah bands, polka bands and other sing-along folk drinking songs are often played during Oktoberfest celebrations.
orning mealtime can be frenetic, as multiple people in a home get ready for work or school at the same time. Stocking the refrigerator with readyto-go offerings that are healthy and delicious ensures that everyone can grab breakfast even if they’re in a rush. This recipe for “Crunchy Honey-Yogurt Breakfast Parfait” courtesy of the National Honey Board® seems like a dessert but actually can be enjoyed first thing in the morning. With nutrient-dense ingredients like whole fruits, honey and yogurt, it provides the boost of energy necessary to start one’s day.
DIRECTIONS:
Crunchy BreakfastHoney-Yogurt Parfait
Makes 2 servings
Reserve several slices of banana and a few blueberries for garnish. Layer 1 tablespoon, 1⁄4 of the pre-sliced banana, 2 tablespoons blueberries, 2 tablespoons yogurt, 2 tablespoons granola, 1⁄4 of the sliced banana, 2 tablespoons blueberries, 1 tablespoon honey, and 2 tablespoons granola in a parfait glass. Repeat for a second parfait. Garnish with reserved banana, blueberries and a drizzle of honey.
1 large banana, sliced, divided
1⁄3 cup honey, divided
1⁄2 cup plain yogurt, divided 1⁄2 cup crunchy granola, divided 1⁄2 cup blueberries, divided
What Is Rosh Hashanah?
The arrival of a new year is celebrated each January 1. But that’s not the only fresh start people celebrate each year. Within the Jewish community, a new year is celebrated months before the first day of January.
Rosh Hashanah is a Jewish holiday, the name of which translates to “head of the year.” Rosh Hashanah is celebrated at the beginning of the month of Tishrei, which is the
Someseventh month of the Jewish calendar year, according to My Jewish Learning. Much like the New Year celebrated in January, Rosh Hashanah is both a time to rejoice and reflect. Many people celebrate the completion of another year by taking stock of their lives and what they can do in the coming year to improve their lives, the community and the world. Jews celebrate Rosh Hashanah as a time for
Did You Know?
people may notice a day when people who adhere to the Jewish faith gather around bodies of water and seem to throw bread, a sight that may spark curiosity. This is a tradition that takes place during Rosh Hashanah. Tossing bread or crumbs of bread into water is part of the Jewish ritual of “Tashlich,” which is a symbolic act occurring on the first day of Rosh Hashanah. Tashlich means “casting off” in Hebrew. Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year when the faithful symbolically cleanse themselves of sins and other transgressions. Tossing the bread or crumbs away is symbolic of that cleansing. This helps start the new year on fresh footing.
Challah is a round bread symbolizing the eternal cycle of life. The bread is often dipped in honey, which symbolizes hopes for a sweet new year.
• In addition to challah, people also enjoy apples dipped in honey to symbolize sweetness.
• Prayers from the Mahzor are read, and three unique sets of prayers are added to the morning service during Rosh Hashanah. This includes prayers to address the sovereignty of God, presenting God as the one who remembers past deeds, and a prayer for anticipation of the future.
prayer, self-reflection and repentance.
Rosh Hashanah is widely observed by Jews throughout the world, many of whom pray and reflect in a synagogue during the holiday. The organization Reform Judaism says observances also include certain customs that take place at home. Here are some notable components of Rosh Hashanah.
• Rosh Hashanah is a twoday observance that ushers in a ten-day period of repentance known as the Days of Awe. That period culminates on Yom Kippur, which is known as the Day of Atonement.
• Although Rosh Hashanah is believed to have originated in biblical times, the Bible does not refer to a “new year” or “day of judgement.”
• Challah is traditionally eaten on Rosh Hashanah.
• The sounding of the shofar is one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday. It is a Jewish ritual horn, traditionally made from a ram’s horn.
• Another popular tradition associated with Rosh Hashanah is a ceremony that occurs on the afternoon of the first day. People throw crumbs or pieces of bread into flowing water, symbolizing their sins. Rosh Hashanah is an important holiday in the Jewish religion. It marks the beginning of a new, and hopefully sweet, new year.
Natural Ways To Fight Fall Allergies
As the days become shorter and the weather cools down, a new crop of allergy symptoms can arise, turning the autumn season into one marked by sneezing, scratchy throats and itchy eyes. Medications can alleviate such symptoms, but allergy sufferers may want to investigate some natural ways to beat allergies. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, ragweed is one of the more common triggers of autumnal allergies. Ragweed contributes to “hay fever,” which is a term to describe allergic rhinitis that occurs as a symptom of ragweed pollen in the air. Ragweed releases pollen in mid-August, and it can continue to be problematic until a deep freeze arrives. Other sources of fall allergies include leaf mold and pollen that is present on fallen leaves. This gets circulated when people begin to rake or blow fallen leaves. Classroom pets and chalk dust in schools (although chalkboards are largely a thing of the past) are other autumn allergens. The good news is that many natural remedies work just as effectively as over-the-counter medications in regard to combatting ragweed and pollen problems. Here’s how to beat the fall allergy blues.
• Stay Away From Pollen. Stay away from pollen and prevent it from being tracked indoors. Remove shoes when walking through the door. Take off clothes worn outside and launder them promptly, showering to wash pollen off of the body. Use an air conditioner or keep windows closed when the pollen count is high.
• Increase Omega-3 Fatty
Acids. It is well documented that fatty acids are good for brain health and cardiovascular well-being, but these acids also may help with allergies. A German study linked foods high in omega-3 fatty acids with the ability to fight inflammation, which is a hallmark of allergy suffering. Foods that are high in fatty acids include walnuts, flax, eggs, and cold-water fatty fish.
• Rinse Off Pollen. Use a mild cleanser to rinse the eyelids and eyelashes of pollen, as this is where it tends to congregate after being outdoors. Use saline spray to clear nasal passages of excess pollen as well.
• Take Natural Supplements. A study published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy found participants who used tablets of the herb butterbur showed significant allergy relief after only one week. Select herbs from reputable manufacturers who certify them.
• Use Eucalyptus Oil. This oil is great to have in the house to help clear up sinuses and provide nasal congestion relief. Mix a small amount with coconut oil and rub onto the chest. There also is some evidence that adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to cleansing products can help kill dust mites around the house.
• Wear A Mask. When doing housework or yard work, wear a mask to reduce the inhalation of specific allergens.
Did You Know?
addition can be a worthy project that makes a home more livable. A host of factors will affect the cost of a room addition, but experts at HomeAdvisor estimate that such a project can cost as much as $150,000. The size of the new room, the location of the home, the materials used to build the room, and a number of variables unique to the existing home will affect the final cost of an addition. Homeowners are best served by contacting various contractors and receiving multiple estimates to get the most accurate idea of what the cost layout will be. Though the sticker price of a room addition may shock some homeowners, it's worth noting that such projects provide a good return at resale.
Did You Know?
There is no definitive age when a child may need to get eyeglasses. However, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus notes that children’s visual systems are still developing during the first 12 years of their life, and during this period wearing glasses can be important for normal vision development. Glasses can help straighten crossed or misaligned eyes, bolster weak vision caused by differences in vision between a child’s eyes, and even protect the stronger eye. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children begin vision screening around age 3 and receive annual screenings each year at ages 4, 5 and 6. After that, screening is recommended when children turn 8, 10, 12, and 15. Of course, parents who begin to suspect their children are having trouble with their vision are urged to take the child to an ophthalmologist once such suspicions arise. Some notable signs include inexplicable declines in academic performance, children sitting closer to the television than they once did and children’s own remarks regarding their vision if they say anything at all.
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I’ll make it as simple as B u y i n g o r S e l l i n g ? B u y i n g o r S e l l i n g ?
Back to School, Back to Routine Is It Time for a New One? As the school year kicks off and life settles down, it might be the perfect time to consider a move Whether you ' re upsizing, downsizing, or just ready for something new, fall offers great opportunities in the market
Thinking of selling? The post-summer lull is a great moment to attract serious buyers.
Looking to buy? With less competition, fall can be the perfect time to find your ideal home.
