Real Client Stories
““
Bryn was professional, organized, and extremely thorough, making sure no detail was overlooked. He was always available to talk things through, answer questions, and keep us informed every step of the way. His expertise in all aspects of selling a home made the process smooth and stress free. We couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome and would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking to sell their home. - Tom & Tina
When selling my mother’s house after my dad’s passing there was really nobody else in Sayville I would trust other than Bryn Elliott. We weren’t just selling the actual house, but the memories and emotions attached to this sale. The house needed TLC and Bryn was extremely compassionate and hopeful he would get us the best price. He helped us navigate this difficult transaction by just being our friend not just a salesman. Bryn delivered his promise within 4 days on market and got way more than asking. We trusted him and so should all. - Laura
Bryn Elliott and his team are the best of the best! He is professional, friendly, and really takes the time to get to know you. When it comes to real estate he knows what he’s doing. He did a phenomenal job marketing our house. The professional photos, the beautiful video tour, and all the ways he advertised our house went above and beyond our expectations. Bryn guided us every step of the way and ultimately sold our house within a few days, well above asking price. If you’re looking to sell your house, you definitely want Bryn Elliott and his team working for you! - Robert & Jennifer
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Real Client Stories
WHAT BRYN’S CLIENTS ARE SAYING...
““
Bryn is one of the most thorough and knowledgeable people we’ve ever met! He truly knows the ins and outs of real estate and steers you in the right direction. He did everything right when it came to selling our house, and it was gone in days! He is always there when you need, and has your best interests in mind. He is so helpful, kind and polite. He will easily become your friend by the end. Thank you, Bryn! - Lisa & Scott
Bryn Elliott has sold multiple properties for me over the years, and always exceeds my expectations! His expertise, experience, and level of communication are 2nd to NONE! From his marketing strategies to his communication skills; he conducts a seamless SALE with comfort and peace of mind! All my properties that were sold by Bryn have all sold for over asking price! Many which were sold before 2015. Bryn is a true Professional and dominates the real estate industry because of his values, work ethic, and resources! He never disappoints! - Joe
I literally can’t say enough about Bryn and working with him to sell my home. From the get go, he was compassionate, knowledgeable, kind, smart, strategic, and funny. Bryn knew exactly how to position my house perfectly in the marketplace, garnering an overwhelming response, a successful open house, and multiple offers in only five days. I joked with him that I listed with him because, “he’s the man!” But he actually proved me right! He not only knew what we was doing every step of the way, educated me and counseled me on the best moves, but he even helped rearrange my furniture and carry groceries. He’s a great guy. A real gem. I’m beyond happy I chose him to sell my house; I’m glad I know him. - Brigitta
BRYN ELLIOTT
Licensed Associate R.E. Broker
95 Main Street, Sayville
631-332-8899 Cell
631-567-0100 Office belliott@signaturepremier.com
Experienced Negotiator
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Life-Long Local Resident
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elcome to our February magazine issue - we hope 2026 is off to a good start for you! It’s been a cold winter, and we hope you’re reading this somewhere warm and cozy. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, we’re excited to share themed editorial content and wish you a day spent with those you love most. Looking to advertise? Contact us today at 631.226.2636 for more information.
Thoughtful Valentine’s Gifts
Valentine’s Day brightens up the bleakness of the shortest and most wintry month of the year for the northern part of the globe. Businesses and homes are awash in pink and red each February, with heart-shaped decorations and boxes filling up store aisles. Sending heartfelt sentiments is a large part of celebrating Valentine’s Day, and most people cherish the day for the opportunity to bestow gifts on the ones they love.
The National Retail Federation says more than half of all consumers typically plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day. In 2025, $27.5 billion was spent on the holiday, with consumers continuing to prioritize gifting those closest to them. The NRF reports the top gift categories for Valentine’s Day are candy, flowers, greeting cards, an evening out, and jewelry.
Here’s how to make these gifts more thoughtful and endearing.
Candy
Gift givers can select candy that is preferable to their loved one instead of choosing the first box of chocolate they find at the store. Perhaps the person you love likes confections from a boutique candy shop a few towns over or has a hankering for candy from overseas? Mexico, for example, is known for its Dulce de Leche, while Halva is a dense, sweet treat from the Middle East. Choosing a special candy really sets the gift apart.
Flowers
Flowers are special gifts. Too often, people feel pressured to buy roses on Valentine’s Day, even if this might not be a special someone’s preferred flower. Choose, instead, a flower that
than one picked up at the store, particularly since the former can be customized to the recipient. Include personalized sentiments, inside jokes or memories of time spent together. Craft and hobby stores offer plenty of supplies for paper crafting, so it’s possible to create a lovely greeting card with minimal effort.
A night out
A night out can be tailored to the interests of the couple celebrating. Book a dinner at a restaurant that was the scene of your first date; otherwise, stay in and watch a movie you each love.
Jewelry
has particular meaning to the person or one that is known to be a favorite. Aster and Baby’s Breath are two blooms known for being symbols of love, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Greeting cards
A handmade card may express warmer sentiments
Jewelry is a very personal gift. While it may seem like a great idea to surprise a special someone with a bracelet or earrings, if the style is off or the color wrong, the piece may not be worn. Rather, the surprise can be a trip to the jewelry store together to pick out something recipients wear all the time.
Gifts that fit the interests, personality and memories of a couple can be especially meaningful on Valentine’s Day.
Sayville High School Introduces ‘Farmer’s Fridge’
Sayville High School is excited to announce the installation of a “Farmer’s Fridge” in the high school gym lobby, an addition that provides students with convenient access to fresh, healthy, and nutritious food options before and after school. The initiative was conceptualized by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee as part of its ongoing effort to support student wellness and healthy choices.
The Farmer’s Fridge, located in the gym lobby near the athletic office, was fully stocked and available for use beginning on January 8. Sayville High School is proud to be only the third school in New York, and the second on Long Island, to offer this innovative resource to its school community.
Items in the Farmer’s Fridge range in price from $1.50 to $10.00. The machine accepts card payments only, and items can also be ordered through the Farmer’s Fridge app. The purpose of the machine was to provide an opportunity for all students to
Medicalhave access to healthy and affordable snacks, wraps, and salads after school in between their extracurricular activities. Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with students expressing appreciation for the variety of options, affordability, and ease of use.
“This is a tremendous step forward in supporting the health and performance of our student-athletes and all students,” said Dr. Ryan Cox, Sayville Schools Director of Physical Education, Health, and Interscholastic Athletics. “The idea came directly from our Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and it reflects their commitment to fueling both academic and athletic success with nutritious options.”
The school has also shared informational materials to help students and families learn more about how Farmer’s Fridge works and the fresh meal options available.
“We are incredibly proud to bring this opportunity to our students,” said Stephanie Bricker, Sayville High School
Principal. “This partnership supports our commitment to student well-being and highlights how student voice can lead to meaningful, positive change within our school.”
With the introduction of Farmer’s Fridge, Sayville High School continues to lead the way in promoting student health, wellness, and innovative solutions driven by student leadership.
Nutritious Snacks Kids Will Love
professionals say parents play an important role in helping children develop healthy relationships with food, starting at an early age. Offering kids two or three nutritious snack options can help them feel in control of their choices and support lifelong healthy habits. While children may prefer less nutritious snacks, many healthy options can still be fun and appealing. Creative snacks like “ants on a log,” fruit kabobs and smoothies can encourage kids to try new foods through playful presentation. Quick, nutritious choices such as cheese sticks, yogurt parfaits and hummus with dippers are also convenient for busy families. By offering flavorful, wholesome snacks, parents can steer children toward healthier habits even when less healthy options are requested.
A Beginner’s Guide To Figure Skating
Figure skating is both an athletic and artistic pursuit. Figure skaters often begin training at very young ages and undergo intense sessions if they have goals to skate competitively. However, the majority of people who take to the ice during the holiday season or when local rinks have open skate sessions probably do not aspire to compete in national competitions or the Olympics. Such individuals enjoy the physical workout and want to learn to skate better.
It’s never too late to learn how to skate. These guidelines can help the process for beginners.
• Start with realistic expectations. Your first time out on the ice might not be your finest hour of skating. Although some people are “naturals,” learning to balance on two thin blades on a very slick surface takes practice. Go slowly and expect that you will fall several times. Increase your confidence in small increments.
• Build up your core. According to former professional figure skater
Cleo McGee, ice skating is a sport that requires a lot of core strength. Enroll in a pilates or yoga class or another corestrengthening activity, which can help you once you’re on the ice.
• Consider a figure skating club. Aspiring skaters in the United States can find places (and often coaches) with whom to train through the U.S. Figure Skating body. Search for a club near you online. Canadians are encouraged to learn through the CanSkate program.
• Get the right equipment. Beginner skaters may be tempted to rent skates, and that is fine for the first time out on the ice. However, if you commit to figure skating, it’s best to purchase skates that fit you well. Used skate blades may be dull and not as well-maintained. Also, invest in hip pads, padded shorts and knee pads to protect areas of the body when falls inevitably happen.
• Avoid blisters and cold hands. Wear gloves and two pairs of socks to protect your extremities.
It’s cold on the ice, particularly when skating outdoors.
• Hit the rink at the right time. Learning to skate with dozens of harried skaters zooming around you can induce anxiety. If possible, try to visit the rink when it is relatively empty and the ice has been freshly prepped. Trying to glide when there is a lot of ice shavings and people can prove challenging.
• Take some lessons. Learning the right
technique is key, and the U.S. Figure Skating Association recommends working with a trained coach. These early lessons will help you learn basics like skating on two feet, stopping, performing dips, getting up from falls, and eventually spins and jumps, if desired. Learning proper skills from the start can move progress along and help prevent injuries.
With a little patience, bravery and training, beginners can get started on their figure skating journeys.
LOBSTER
MARINARA FOR 2! Enjoy the freshest mix of a whole lobster, clams, mussels, shrimp and bay scallops, all served over a bed of fresh linguine in your choice of a fra diavolo or sweet sauce.
Tips For Those New To Skiing
Millions of people across the globe love to ski.
Unofficial Networks Ski & Mountain News reports that the 2024-25 season recorded 61.5 million skier visits, the second-highest on record, which suggests the popularity of skiing and snowboarding shows no signs of slowing down.
With so many active participants, those who plan to ski for the first time may be eager to hit the slopes. But it is important for new skiers to heed some beginner tips.
• Get a ski pass. If possible, find a ski resort nearby and purchase a pass in advance. Once you have the pass you can visit the mountain and ski whenever you have available time. Plus, the expense of the pass can be incentive to get out and use it, ensuring you get your money’s worth.
• Expect to fall. On a first day out, it is likely you will fall down quite often, and it can be challenging to get up. Knowing this will occur in advance can help you avoid embarrassment. Also, expect people to be more skilled than you, even young children who have been skiing for quite some time.
• Protect your feet. Novices may feel that their feet get too cold, wet or sore. It is important to get boots that are comfortable and fit well. Harvard University suggests boots that enable you to wiggle your toes, but not allow
you to turn your foot sideto-side within the boot. Try several boots when renting, and eventually purchase your own boots with a custom fit.
• Take lessons. A private lesson can be very helpful for novices, teaching them form and instilling confidence. The instructor also can help you avoid bad habits.
• Wear thick ski pants. Ski pants insulate against the cold and wet snow, and when falls inevitably occur, the thickness of pants can offer padding.
• Layer on top. Wear a waterproof jacket and layers so you can add or remove layers as needed. A zippered jacket is
easier to take on and off or simply loosen when you’re hot.
• Rent skis. Bearfoot Theory suggests renting skis at the resort before investing in your own so you get an idea of what you like. Skiing clothing and gear goes on sale at the end of the season, which enables you to save money when it comes time to invest.
• Ski with those better than you. Skiing alongside those who are more advanced than you can help. Find people you trust to be patient and invite you along. Chances are you will learn a little more quickly because you’ll be compelled to keep up. It’s also perfectly alright to ski solo once
you gain some measure of comfort on the slopes.
• Start with groomed runs. As a beginner, focus on getting a strong foundation on groomed runs. Then move on to powder to test out something a little more intense.
• Build up leg strength. Focusing on workouts that involve strengthening your calves and quadriceps can lead to greater endurance when it comes time to hit the slopes. Skiing is an entertaining recreational activity that draws scores of enthusiasts each year. Beginners are urged to start slowly and develop the skills necessary to become confident skiers.
Cherry Pie Makes For A Flavorful Finishing Touch
Dessert can be the crowning touch to a delicious meal. Pie is a popular dessert that undoubtedly benefits from versatility. It comes in so many flavors that it’s possible to eat a slice of pie each day for a month and never have the same one twice. For those with a predilection for “Cherry Pie,” this recipe from Lines+Angles is sure to please.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Mix flour, salt and sugar in a food processor fitted with steel blade. Scatter butter pieces over flour mixture, tossing to coat butter with a little flour. Cut butter into flour with five 1-second pulses. Add shortening and continue to cut it in until flour is pale yellow and resembles coarse cornmeal with butter bits no larger than small peas, about four more 1-second pulses. Turn mixture into medium bowl.
2. Sprinkle all but 1 tablespoon of the ice water over mixture. With blade of rubber spatula, use folding motion to mix. Press down on dough with broad side of spatula until dough sticks together, adding up to 1 tablespoon of remaining ice water if dough does not come together. Divide dough into two balls, one slightly larger than the other. Flatten each into 4-inch-wide disk. Dust lightly with flour, wrap separately in plastic, and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove dough from refrigerator; let stand at room temperature to soften slightly, about 10 minutes. Heat oven to 400 F. Toss fruit with sugar, lemon juice and zest, spices, almond extract, brandy, and tapioca; let stand for 15 minutes.
4. Roll larger dough disk on lightly floured surface into 12-inch
Cherry Pie
For 8 servings
Pie dough:
2 1⁄4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon table salt
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2⁄3 cup unsalted butter, cut into 1⁄4-inch cubes
7 tablespoons vegetable shortening; chilled
1⁄3 cup iced water
Cherry filling:
6 cups sweet cherries (pitted), or 6 cups pitted frozen cherries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 small lemon, zested to yield 1 teaspoon zest and juiced to yield 2 teaspoons juice
1⁄8 teaspoon ground allspice
1⁄8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1⁄8 teaspoon almond extract
1 tablespoon brandy
3 to 4 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
circle, about 1⁄8-inch thick. Transfer and fit dough into 9-inch glass pie pan, leaving dough that overhangs the lip in place. Turn fruit mixture, including juices, into pie shell. Scatter butter pieces over fruit. Refrigerate until ready to top with remaining dough.
5. Roll smaller disk on lightly floured surface into 10-inch circle. Lay over fruit. Trim top and bottom dough edges to 1⁄2-inch beyond pan lip. Tuck this rim of dough underneath itself so that folded edge is flush with pan lip. Flute dough in your own fashion, or press with fork tines to seal. Cut four slits at right angles on dough top to allow steam to escape. If pie dough is very soft, place in freezer for 10 minutes before baking.
6. Place pie on baking sheet; bake until top crust is golden, 20 to 25 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 F and continue to bake until juices bubble and crust is golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes longer.
7. Transfer pie to wire rack; let cool to almost room temperature so juices have time to thicken, from 1 to 2 hours.
Tips: If you prefer a less sweet pie or if the fruit is very sweet, use a lower sugar amount to your taste. If you like your pie juices fairly thick, or if the fruit is really juicy, then opt for the higher amount of tapioca. If you are using frozen fruit, measure it frozen, but let it thaw before filling the pie. If not, you run the risk of partially cooked fruit and undissolved tapioca.
Treat Your Valentine To Gluten-Free Sweets
Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to lavish love and attention on a special person in your life. Exchanging gifts, enjoying dinner out, and snuggling with your sweetheart are commonplace on this mid-February holiday devoted to love. It is equally common to enjoy a sweet dessert to cap off this romantic day. Food allergies and intolerances do not take a holiday when Valentine’s Day rolls around. For those who live gluten-free, finding a dessert that suits their diet might prove a tad challenging. Luckily, it is relatively easy to whip up a gluten-free dessert and ensure that Valentine’s treats can be enjoyed by all. This recipe for “Snickerdoodles” from “Cozy Kitchen AllergyFriendly Cooking” (Umbrella Sky) by Jeanette Smerina is gluten, soy, and dairy-free, but certainly not free of delicious flavor. What’s fun about these cookies is that cooks can use colored sugar to customize them for any occasion. Use red and pink for Valentine's Day.
Snickerdoodles
Makes 25 to 30
2 1⁄2 cups gluten-free flour, 1-1 blend
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1⁄2 cup olive oil
2 eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons almond milk
For rolling and coating:
1⁄4 cup granulated sugar (or colored sugar)
2 tablespoons cinnamon
DIRECTIONS:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low just to combine.
2. In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together oil, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until thickened.
3. Add the egg and sugar mixture to the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Then add the almond milk and blend once more.
4. Cover and chill dough for 30 minutes or more. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or use silicone baking mats.
5. In a shallow bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Scoop small balls of the cookie dough (about an inch in diameter) and roll in the cinnamon and sugar mixture. Place each ball 2 inches apart on the cookie sheets. Repeat until all dough is used. The cookies will puff and enlarge while cooking.
6. Press down slightly on all cookie balls to flatten a bit. Bake cookies 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges of cookies are looking set up.
7. Cool cookies on racks. Store in covered containers for up to one week.
Items That May Be Hidden Sources Of Gluten
Individualsdiagnosed with celiac disease recognize they must avoid gluten. That’s become easier over the last couple decades as manufacturers have recognized the growing number of consumers on gluten-free diets. However, the Celiac Disease Foundation® notes that various foods may contain gluten in hidden or unexpected ways. That underscores how important it is that individuals with celiac disease read labels prior to purchasing foods and beverages for the first time. In the meantime, such individuals can keep this list of potential hidden sources of gluten in mind as they shop for groceries or dine out.
• Energy bars/granola bars: The CDF recommends shoppers read the label prior to purchasing energy bars and granola bars, as many contain wheat and/ or oats, which are not gluten-free.
• French fries: Crosscontamination from fryers can make otherwise safe french fries risky, so individuals with celiac disease may want to stick to gluten-free fries prepared at home.
• Potato chips: Read the label to ensure chips are not made with seasonings that might contain malt vinegar or wheat starch.
• Processed lunch meats
• Candy and candy bars
• Soups: The CDF notes that cream-based soups typically contain flour as
a thickener. Many soups also contain barley.
• Multi-grain or “artisan” tortilla chips or tortillas: The CDF warns that these products may contain a wheat-based ingredient.
• Salad dressings and marinades: Malt vinegar, soy sauce and flour is often used to create salad dressings and marinades.
• Soy sauce
• Pre-seasoned meats
• Eggs: Diner fans should know that some diners use pancake batter when cooking scrambled eggs or omelets. But the CDF notes that eggs are naturally gluten-free, so diners can request that their eggs be prepared without additives.
• Beers/malt beverages: The celiac advocacy organization Beyond Celiac notes that beers labeled “gluten-removed” are not gluten-free and should be avoided by individuals with celiac. In addition, the CDF warns that beers, ales, lagers, and malt beverages made from gluten-containing grains are not distilled and should be avoided. Only beers labeled “gluten-free” are safe to drink for people with celiac disease.
Individuals with celiac disease must remain vigilant when buying foods and beverages. Many items are hidden sources of gluten that could put celiac patients’ health in jeopardy if consumed.
Pick The Perfect Valentine’s Day Flowers
Valentine’s Day is steeped in tradition. Giving flowers is a popular tradition each February 14, and the National Retail Federation estimates that people spend around $2.6 billion on flowers for Valentine’s Day, when an estimated 250 million stems of flowers are sold globally. Valentine’s Day is the most lucrative day for florists, with the red rose the most popular flower given on this day for lovebirds.
Just because millions of roses are prepared in advance of Valentine’s Day sales doesn’t mean this is the type of flower that one has to choose for a bouquet or arrangement. A surprise bouquet can feature unique blooms. Here are tips to give the perfect bouquet to the person who claims your heart.
• Identify your loved one’s favorite colors and flowers. Understanding your partner’s floral preferences is the first step in choosing a Valentine’s Day arrangement. Many have a favorite flower type or color, and everyone’s isn’t necessarily a red rose. Some people love bright daffodils, while others like exotic lilies. Pay attention to these likes to select flowers that will delight your partner.
• Select fresh flowers. When buying flowers in person, make sure they are fresh by gently feeling the part of the petal that meets the stem. If this part
is firm, then the flower is fresh.
• Opt for neutral tones. If you’re unsure of which flowers to buy, stick with varietals in white and soft, neutral tones. This will lend a more romantic vibe to the bouquet. Bright, high-contrast florals may come off as tacky unless you can guarantee that the person prefers them.
• Keep allergies in mind. Valentine’s Day should be about offering love, not a case of the sniffles. If the person in your life suffers from floral allergies, avoid certain blooms, like sunflowers, chrysanthemums and hyacinths, suggests Funny How Flowers Do That, a United Kingdom-based flower company. Tulips, irises and hydrangea are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
• Order early. Time is of the essence when getting flowers for Valentine’s Day. Florists may rush or have fewer flowers to work with as Valentine’s Day draws closer. Ordering well in advance means you’ll get your desired arrangement.
Presidential Powers And Privileges
Holdingthe office of the President of the United States of America is an immense honor bestowed upon an individual by the American people every four years. Overseeing the country comes with immense responsibility, and the president relies on a sizable team to keep order, maintain accountability and ensure operations run as smoothly as possible.
Although it might seem that the president has absolute authority, there are certain things a president can and cannot do. The following are some of the privileges and powers that the POTUS is allowed, courtesy of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum.
• Make treaties with the approval of the Senate.
• The implied ability to fire executive branch officials, even if it’s not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
• Act as Commander-inChief during times of war.
• Veto bills and sign bills.
• Enforce the laws passed by Congress.
• Make suggestions about
what should be new laws and employ a national platform to sway public opinion and convince Congress to support policy.
• Serve as the leader and mouthpiece for a political party.
• Entertain foreign dignitaries and other guests.
• Recognize foreign countries in different ways.
• Grant pardons to individuals found guilty of federal offenses.
• Nominate Cabinet
Did You Know?
members, Supreme Court Justices and other high officials.
• Appoint ambassadors.
• Call Congress into special session, or end sessions if they cannot agree.
Apart from the more obvious, there are certain things the U.S. President is not supposed to do. However, although the Secret Service can advise and strongly discourage the behaviors below, the president does have the final say.
• Current and former presidents and vice presidents aren’t supposed
Trivia fans may know that American president Benjamin Harrison, who served from 1889 to 1893, was both preceded and succeeded in office by Grover Cleveland. But Harrison has another notable distinction on his presidential résumé. Harrison was the country's twenty-third president but the first to hire a woman White House staffer upon his selection of Alice Sanger as his presidential secretary on January 2, 1890. History.com suggests Harrison's appointment of Sanger might have been an effort to extend an olive branch to the women's suffrage movement, which was gaining momentum during the time Harrison spent in the White House. Though Sanger was named to the White House staff 135 years ago, the United States has still not seen a woman elected to the office of the president.
to drive on the open road. Secret Service agents may allow them to drive around secured properties.
• A sitting president is not to use off-the-shelf personal electronic devices due to security concerns.
• Presidents shouldn’t attend their children’s performance or sporting events due to the extensive security preparations that would be necessary.
• Similar to driving a car, a president shouldn’t take a commercial airline flight.
• For security reasons, opening windows in the White House and in the presidential vehicle is prohibited.
• A president shouldn’t do spring cleaning, like tidying up an office. Under the Presidential Records Act, presidents are mandated to hang on to things that normally would be discarded by others, such as emails and paperwork.
The President of the United States has many privileges, but absolute power is not one of them.
Score The Best Deals This Presidents’ Day
February
is packed with meaningful events and holidays. From Groundhog Day to Black History Month to Valentine’s Day, there are plenty of significant events on the calendar in the second month of the year. Presidents’ Day is one such event. Presidents’ Day was initially established to honor the nation’s first president, George Washington. In fact, according to the United States Government, Presidents’ Day is still officially called “Washington’s Birthday” in section 6103(a) of title 5 of the United States Code governing holidays for federal employees. Washington’s Birthday was celebrated on February 22.
After the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed, Washington’s Birthday was combined with the celebration of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (February 12) to commemorate these two iconic figures in American history. The day also has become a way to promote retail sales during a historically slow time of year for retailers. As a result, the holiday
is now celebrated each year on the third Monday of the month, and is now called Presidents’ Day. It also now pays homage to all American presidents. Presidents’ Day is an ideal time to get great deals on any number of items, as many key products tend to go on sale this time of year.
• Furniture: Furniture discounts peak in January and during the three-day Presidents’ Day holiday. This is prime time to grab a new sofa, dining set or any other pieces of furniture needed for the home.
Year Of The Fire Horse
TheLunar New Year, commonly referred to as the Chinese New Year, highlights Chinese astronomical animals and elements. With 12 signs and five elements, certain combinations only arrive once every 60 years. In 2026, celebrants will recognize the Fire Horse with celebrations that begin on February 17.
Chinese astrology assigns a year with one of the 12 zodiac animals paired with one of the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, or earth. As these elements complement and clash, it is believed they promote order, harmony and balance in the natural world.
The Chinese lunisolar calendar is based on a sexagenary (60-year) cycle of “ganzhi,” which means “stems and branches.” Although the last Year of the Horse was in 2014, that was a Wood Horse. We haven’t seen a Fire Horse since 1966. The combination of fire and horse can bring about certain effects.
According to Sino-cultural, the horse has earned a distinguished place in the Chinese Zodiac through legendary speed and unwavering endurance. Horses were indispensable in ancient Chinese society and representative of power, nobility and ambition. China Highlights says
• Large appliances: Appliances also are on sale this time of year. Buyers can get discounts on new refrigerators, washing machines or even stoves.
• Home goods: Rounding out the list of deals for home goods, bed linens, towels and kitchenware are often available at steep discounts around Presidents’ Day.
• Winter clothing: Retailers already have started putting out their spring lines and items as they plan ahead for warmer weather. Grab heavily discounted winter gear, especially coats and boots, before it’s all gone.
• Mattresses: Presidents’ Day weekend is an excellent opportunity to try out various mattresses and replace old ones with more comfortable models, according to Consumer Reports.
• Tech: Shoppers may be able to snag discounts on items like televisions, accessories to use with cell phones, computers, and more.
Chinese astrology asserts that personality and luck are determined by both zodiac sign and 12-year cycle element. The fire element provides warmth, enthusiasm, connection, and creativity.
For the Fire Horse, the element modifies the animal’s trait. Fire Horses are said to be strongwilled, proactive and lively. They can handle various problems simultaneously and they thrive on challenges, succeeding in the face of adversity. According to myNEWS, The Year of the Fire Horse is expected to be full of breakthroughs, rapid changes and innovations. People are encouraged to chase their dreams this
year as many opportunities await. A Fire Horse allegedly burns everything to rebuild, so the year could be tumultuous in the name of progress.
Celebrating the Lunar New Year will be even more exciting with the vibrant and change-inducing Fire Horse.
4 Facts About St. Valentine
Valentine is the patron saint of lovers and engaged and married couples. He also is the name behind the holiday that inspires images of red hearts and rose petals in the middle of February. Not much is actually known about St. Valentine because records are sparse. However, these facts have emerged.
• St. Valentine could be one of at least three individuals who were martyred. In fact, some believe there were about a dozen St. Valentines.
• Of course St. Valentine is known for presiding over lovers. However, he’s also the patron saint of epilepsy, watching over those who experience seizures associated with the disease.
• Visitors to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Rome can find the flower-adorned skull of St. Valentine on display. Other parts of St. Valentine’s skeleton are on display in the Czech Republic, England, France, and Ireland.
• Some people think Geoffrey Chaucer may have invented Valentine’s Day. In his “Parlement of Foules,” he speaks of a tradition of courtly love with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day. This association became more established after Chaucer’s poem had received widespread attention.
Asthe United States marks its 250th anniversary, some may wonder where the name “America” comes from. According to the Library of Congress, it derives from Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who argued that the lands Columbus reached were a separate continent. In 1507, German mapmaker Martin Waldseemüller honored this idea by labeling the continent “America,” a Latinized form of Vespucci’s name, on a groundbreaking map now held by the Library of Congress and often called “America’s Birth Certificate.”
Celebrate The Chinese New Year With Deep-Fried Wontons
TheChinese New Year is a unique celebration with a global footprint. While many of the more awe-inspiring celebrations may occur within China, that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to commemorate this unique event elsewhere. Celebrations can even take place at home, where individuals can whip up homemade Chinese fare to lend their festivities a more authentic feel. This Chinese New Year, those who want to bring this unique event into their homes can try the following recipe for “Deep-Fried Pork Wontons” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Deep-Fried Pork Wontons
For the filling:
7 ounces minced pork
2 spring onions
1 green chili, deseeded
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
32 square wonton wrappers
Vegetable oil, for frying
To serve:
Mixed leaf salad; cabbage, lettuce and coriander
Sweet and sour sauce
DIRECTIONS:
1. Mix together the ingredients for the filling, stirring in one direction only.
2. Place double layers of wonton wrappers in front of you in a diamond shape. Place a little of the filling on the bottom half of the dough. Fold the bottom corner of dough over the filling and roll it once. Take the outside corners and bring them together, sealing with a little water. Stand the wontons on their flat bases and gently separate the two top flaps. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Heat about 4 inches oil in a deep pan until gently bubbling, then fry the wontons in batches for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels then serve on beds of the mixed leaves with the sweet and sour sauce alongside.
Tip: This recipe may also be steamed or boiled.
