We’re shining a light on local small business owners to help make this holiday season merry and bright.

(Long Island, N.Y.) This has to be one of the best inventions I’ve seen in a long time. The “OmniRobe” (patent pending) is a clever, chic and super comfy robe that’s truly a brilliant (and practical) idea. It’s an innovative 4-in-1 versatile luxury bathrobe designed specifically to meet all of your needs. It never gets in your way of everyday tasks; just zip off the sleeves and/or the bottom and enjoy unencumbered freedom while still in the comfort of your favorite robe. Instantly regulate your body temp: stay cool, zip off. Warm up, zip on.

Not only did I quickly fall in love with the luxurious look and feel; I was impressed by the workmanship and top-notch attention to detail. Yes-all this excitement.over a robe!

Best of all–its sparked from a local mom who had the fortitude to fully execute a fabulous idea. I recently caught up with the creator, Jessica Mashkevich of Kona Benellie Designs who truly put her heart and soul reinventing and revolutionizing a staple in every woman’s wardrobe.

So when and how did you get the idea for this (rather brilliant!) idea?

I loved to wear my favorite robe or should I say I loved the concept of wearing my favorite robe however I’m not sure if my robe spent more time on my body or draped over my kitchen chair. It’s a great feeling to snuggle into the comfort of my favorite robe after my shower or after a long day of work but the practicality of wearing it always seemed to be a challenge. Either I would get too warm too quickly especially, after that hot cup of coffee in the morning, or it would just get in the way of what I was doing at the time. And in the summer months, it was cozy to put for a minute or two but in reality it was just too warm to wear until fall/winter came around… that made me a bit sad.

That’s when I decided that my favorite robe needed a transformation. So one night, with a giant scissor in my left hand (go lefties!!) (and a glass of wine in the other hand), I re-invented the bathrobe to fit in with all of my needs of warming up, cooling off, unencumbered multi-tasking, and all-season wear of my favorite robe! Voila!

A lot of people have clever ideas but many (like me!) just don’t follow through. What prompted or inspired you to fully execute your creation?

I was psyched to find that there was nothing out there like this. I was excited that my 4-in-1 creation will improve people’s lives and even free up valuable closet space after clearing out those other 6 robes that never get worn. I began the patent process right away and had friends and family sign non-disclosure agreements. I did market research and usability testing to see if this sort of product would be successful and made tweaks to the prototype along the way. I scanned my mental Rolodex and pulled out all of the people that I would tap into for their advice, their skills, their knowledge, and their connections to help me take this to the next level.

In my previous career at JP Morgan Chase, I had a fabulous boss and still my mentor who taught me how to tackle things like this so I felt confident to hit the ground running. Advice to all: never burn bridges. People of your past and present can become very instrumental to you one day. Plus, it’s just not nice to burn bridges in general.

What early successes are you celebrating now and what’s in store for the future?

I am BIG on celebrating successes! My definition of a success is ‘every step FORWARD’. I re-invented the age-old bathrobe! I celebrated after my patent was submitted. I celebrated after the prototype was complete. I celebrated after launching my web site www.omnirobe.com. I celebrated after my first write-up in the press. I celebrated after receiving my first purchase order. I celebrate every time I am able to get the right buyer on the phone. I recognized early on that there will be setbacks along the way so why not celebrate every successful step in the right direction.

I have great things planned for the immediate future of the OmniRobe… in the US and worldwide. I intend to get more people to know about it. I want more celebrities to wear it and love it (which they do already). I’d love to place it into some of the popular TV shows like Live with Regis and Kelly, Ellen, Modern Family, The Office, and Grey’s Anatomy. I would even love Andy Sandberg to create a SNL Digital Short about it! I want to bring comfort and ease to people’s lives with more versatile luxury creations by Kona Benellie Designs.

I think it makes the PERFECT gift for any gal–moms, aunts, wives, grandmas, friends. How can we buy it?

The OmniRobe DOES make the perfect gift! Even if you are buying for someone who is particular, with 4 different ways to wear the OmniRobe, you can’t go wrong.

Right now, you can buy OmniRobes from our main web site at www.omnirobe.com or you can buy from our retailers like Hammacher Schlemmer (they call our robe the Four in One Robe Item# 81839) and you can find it here.

Buyers can contact me directly at jessmash@konabenellie.com.

Holiday Magic and (Extra) Special Touches at the Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa, Lake Placid

(Long Island, N.Y.) If you’re looking for someplace truly magical to escape to this December, the Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa is a must-not-miss winter wonderland. Six million acres of wilderness surround the inn which is perfect for hiking, biking, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, ice climbing, snowshoeing, and just about anything else your heart desires.

Located in the Olympic village (the Olympic Center is the heart of Lake Placid), the area is famous for easy access to: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, hockey, speed skating, bobsledding, skeleton, luge, curling, and ski jumping.

It’s about a five-hour drive from New York City but to be honest, this neck of the woods is probably one of the most splendid spots I have ever visited and there’s no sweeter place to ring in the season. The village has a distinct warmth and invigorating vibe and Mirror Lake Inn’s accommodations can best be described as all-out Adirondack elegance with a laid-back, casual charm.

To make the holidays merry and bright, the Inn sparkles with these extra-festive special touches:

• Elegant decorations, including nine real, themed Christmas trees, and a poinsettia tree
• 300,000 twinkling lights illuminating the outside of the inn. This is approximately 6,000 strands at 50 lights per strand
• Approximately 70 lit trees (45 small and 25 large) on the property
• Christmas trees in guest rooms upon request
• Exclusive Santa Turndown Service complete with elves and milk and cookies
• Personal shopper – making holiday gift shopping and wrapping easy
• Homemade cookies with afternoon tea
• Private skating rink on frozen Mirror Lake with complimentary hot chocolate at The Cottage Café
• Winter bonfires with marshmallow toasting
• Special Christmas Eve buffet and Christmas Day dinner
• The annual Joy to the Children benefit, the red-carpet holiday party of the Adirondacks, raising over $1 million to date for children’s programs
• Charm, warmth and romance manifested by the inn’s cozy corners and crackling fires
• Children’s activities including crafts, ornament making and magic shows
• An exhilarating ride down the Toboggan Chute onto frozen Mirror Lake
• Snow cave adventures with story-telling and hot chocolate
• Horse drawn sleigh rides around picturesque Mirror Lake
• Dog sled rides across the frozen ice
• World-class skiing at Whiteface Mountain, just 10 minutes from the inn
• Bobsled and luge rides to give guests the Olympic thrill Holiday spa treatments

The Holiday Village Stroll package includes deluxe accommodations in a Classic room for a family of four, a hearty Adirondack breakfast with Santa, $50 in holiday shopping dollars, holiday story time, holiday crafts, and skating on Mirror Lake (weather dependent).

December 9 – 11, 2011: $800 for a two night stay. Priced for a family of four.

So you think you can spin?

(Long Island, N.Y.) At (yikes!) 39, I can finally say I’m in the best shape of my life. And while I’m beyond thrilled to see myself slimming down and toning up, looking longer and leaner (and finally fitting into my “whoa” pants!) the transformation goes much deeper. I feel stronger–on the inside and out. When I’m playing with my kids, running up and down the stairs, moving furniture, every step I take feels powered by a new-found strength. My energy is up, my mind’s a bit sharper–even my sleep is more restful. And I owe that all to Spinning®.

It’s nothing radical or new–Spinning® classes have been popular for years now and I have always turned my nose up and snubbed the idea, thinking it was too difficult, boring, trendy….you get the idea. But I took a shot and tried out a class this summer… and I was hooked. The room is blacked out, the florescent walls are glowing, the music is blasting and for an hour you leave your troubles behind…and your saddle bags! I was surprised to find people of all ages riding along with me; men, women, teens, seniors–the energy is amazing.

Yes, in three months, without really changing my eating habits– a total body transformation. Can Spinning® really help reshape your body? I caught up with Lorianna Petrucci, one of the fab fitness instructors at Evolusion–a newly opened full-service fitness club in Miller Place, NY to break it down. Petrucci is a certified Spinning® instructor and she offers her expert advice on why you should give this amazing workout a whirl.

I never knew Spinning® would be so fun-but whoa, it’s a tough workout! Around how many calories can you burn in a typical class?

Spinning® is an extremely tough workout, and by incorporating the type of class, the length of the class, and the size and body weight of each individual, the calorie burn will vary. Naturally, if you are a large man with more muscle mass and weight, he will expend more calories than a smaller female, especially one who has adapted to an effective exercise regime, especially Spinning®.

It is not uncommon for an individual to burn 700 – 1,000 calories in a class, again, depending upon the duration and type of class as well. You should always be sure to make the class fun and make your class feel extremely comfortable with you, and many, many times, they don’t want the class to end. You actually come out much more energized and happier than when you went in!!!

So with each spin class you take, how is your body benefiting?

In Spinning® classes, you are not only burning many calories, but you are strengthening your core by utilizing all of the movements on the bike. You are using your lats, biceps, pectoralis major/minor, gastrocs, triceps, quads, hamstrings and spinal erectors. Many people think that they are just strengthening and losing weight in the lower portion of the body, but you are using many more muscles than you think, and with each move, you are utilizing your core!! Not to mention the outrageous cardiovascular benefits! You are certainly in an aerobic state, using oxygen to access your energy needs…When the oxygen is available, the body’s preferred source of fuel is to burn fat!

Also, you become anaerobic as well. I like to incorporate the “Interval Class” which contains both aerobic and anaerobic as anaerobic exercise increases heart rate as well, but forces the muscles to “burn” and create lean muscle…Because this also creates lactic acid which fatigues muscle, we only use this in short bursts of our exercise routine. When you are driving your body for 45 minutes to one hour, and pushing your body to its peak and then rest, to climb, run, jump and rest, gradually over time, you are increasing your endurance and stamina…all great attributes!!!

Besides of the (very obvious) effects Spinning® classes have on your body-how can it help your overall health/ Do your Spinning® students report any significant positive changes?

Spinning® is such an obvious tool in losing weight, inches, and re-shaping your body, but it also has cardiovascular benefits as well. We have reports in my class alone, that high blood pressures are down, medicines were decreased.Also, cholesterol levels came down and again, medication was decreased!! These are people who take the class at least twice per week.

As a result of aerobic exercise, the heart becomes stronger and can contract more forcefully, so the exercise decreases the volume of blood used to take care of the heart, lowering the beats per minute! Your heart will also recover from intense bouts of activity at a quicker rate. Anaerobic states, as in weight lifting, build muscle–when we climb those hills and train–we are building muscle as well.

For someone who is not a conditioned athlete, Spinning® classes can be so intimating! What do you typically tell beginners about trying out a class?

It is true that many people are intimidated by Spinning® classes. They may have heard of the intensity of the class, and some are even intimidated by the bike itself. I tell every individual to try and not be intimidated.I tell them that this is “their ride”…I tell them to go at their own pace and that they will eventually build up like everyone else who started also did.

You make people feel comfortable, understanding that they are alone on their own bike, set up individually for them, and that they can turn the resistance up or down as they wish. Also, not to expect to keep up with the more intense climbs, sprints and jumps…Just do what they can– if they keep coming back to Spinning®, they too will be great spinners, and they will be in great condition!

Evolusion is becoming so popular-are you amazed at how quickly word has spread and the reaction from your slimmer/stronger students?

I am not so surprised to see how quickly EVOLUSION has taken off, but I am certainly ecstatic over this!!! I myself have waited for a Spinning® room as I have been a spinning instructor since 2003…before that, I taught aerobics, step, kickboxing and body conditioning. I knew that when our new owners arrived, and made such wonderful improvements, one of the most effective, being that wonderful Spinning® room, it was bound to attract attention. But, I also feel that as news of the classes spread throughout the community, people would just swarm to our gym– the class speaks for itself.

I am always sure to utilize fantastic music with a driving beat, in unison with rhythmic moves and staying on the beat is essential. When the class sees that the instructor is fun and cares about them individually, going around fitting them individually and developing a personal interest in them, they love and appreciate that. Personality is essential along with being adept as a Spinning® instructor. My students have come to me thrilled with the classes and their results. They absolutely love their classes and constantly give positive feedback. It is great to see them so happy after their class, and during the class as well…they get slimmer and fitter by the day!!!

I’m so grateful my first class was taught by you–your energy is quite infectious! What do you think makes a great Spinning® instructor?

I believe that to be a great Spinning® instructor, you must be more than educated and experienced in what you teach. You must have an outgoing personality, be upbeat, positive and friendly with your students. I always make time to work on my music, constantly listening and downloading, and creating new and more exciting CD’s. It does pay to be “musical”! Being on the beat is extremely important as you make the class feel like you’re in a club, where you could be dancing and it’s just so much fun.

I hear every day, my students tell me and others, “I have been to other spin classes, but never like this–this is amazing and I love it…I’ll be back” It is so rewarding, and I have a great time teaching– it’s in my blood, it’s in my soul….and so is EVOLUSION!

October is National Depression Education and Awareness Month. A fascinating new book offers hope and healing.

(Long Island, N.Y.) For the past six years, I have turned to Long Island native Deborah Serani, a licensed psychologist and certified psychoanalyst in practice twenty five years to shed some light on the darkness of depression. She is an adjunct professor at Adelphi University and the author of the award-winning, syndicated blog Dr. Deb: Psychological Perspectives. Dr. Serani is a frequent go-to expert, providing insight on a variety of psychological subjects for numerous media outlets. Her interviews can be found in Psychology Today, Newsday, The Chicago Sun Times, Glamour Magazine, The Associated Press and on affiliate radio programs at CBS and NPR, just to name a few. Dr. Serani has also worked as a technical advisor for the NBC television show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Her enlightening new book, “Living with Depression“ is a part memoir, part self-help book that details Serani’s personal and professional experiences with depression – and the wisdom gained from this unique perspective. She tackles the disorder with a deep sensitivity – turning the pages, you feel she has poured her heart and soul into the book–and her professional expertise and training.

Diagnosed at age 19, Serani talks about her lifetime struggles with depression and how finding the right combination of treatments can lead to health and healing. Serani comments on the roadblocks of stigma and reminds us that the pain of depression and most mental illness arise not solely from the illness, but from the harsh response society has to people with these disorders. Clinical definitions, updated research, and the promise of science serve not only as a resource guide for anyone who has depression or loves someone with this disorder, but also as a testament to those who live productively with mental illness.

If you or a loved one is dealing with depression, Dr. Serani’s book is simply a must read. She offers her unique perspective of depression from a personal and a professional experience. Her book is packed with information and it can truly serve as a light at the end of the tunnel. You’ll find everything from tips on how to find a good therapist to dealing with health insurance, how to fight the stigma, prevent relapse – and so much more. The holidays can hit hard for those who battle depression, so now’s the time to start building a path towards hope and healing.

(Long Island, N.Y.) One quick visit to any grocery store and you’ll see that Halloween is in the air. The shelves are stocked with enough mini candy bars to build a path to the moon and back. If you’re looking for ways to celebrate this (most fun!) but spooky season, we’ve got you covered! Here’s three ways to treat the kids to a ghoulish good time.

1. Make it Spook-tac-ular!

The Garden City Hotel presents Halloween family dining events beginning with a Witches Brew Tea on Saturday afternoon, October 22nd; followed the next weekend by a Children’s Costume Breakfast on Saturday morning, October 29th; and a Monster Brunch on Sunday, October 30th. Reservations are encouraged for each event by calling (516) 877-9385 or visiting www.gchevents.com for further information.

Children’s Witches Brew Tea

On Saturday, October 22nd from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., a new Halloween-themed tea menu for all the family takes shape in the private dining rooms at REIN. Savory tea sandwiches and sweet pastries, by Chef Steven De Bruyn and Pastry Chef David Lugo, will be served with a selection of loose teas and herbal infusions befitting the witches brew theme. Costumed characters will bewitch guests while sounds of witching season will chill spines. Guests are welcome to wear costumes and parents are encouraged to bring cameras and capture the magical tea time. The cost is $39 per person, for both adults and children, and is free for children under two-years-old.

Children’s Halloween Costume Breakfast

On Saturday, October 29th from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Posh Ultra Lounge will be transformed into a spook-tacular playhouse galore for a trick and treat costume breakfast. Guests will be greeted by classic characters and costumed servers who will pose for photographs. Children may also decorate pumpkins while a master garde-manger demonstrates jack-o-lantern carving techniques. Scary ghost pancakes, spider punch, pumpkin bread and spookily inspired cupcakes will be served along with traditional breakfast offerings in a buffet-style breakfast. The cost is $29.95 plus tax and gratuity for adults; half price or $14.99 for children under 12-years-old; and no charge for under-two-years-olds.

Halloween Monster Brunch

On Sunday, October 30th with seatings starting at noon, the legendary hotel’s top-rated brunch transforms from a classic style to a hauntingly fun dining event for the entire family with a Halloween Monster Brunch. Guests will be greeted by classic characters and costumed servers who will pose for photographs in a Halloween-decorated REIN. On the menu will be something for everyone from breakfast favorites and haunted carving stations to a spook-tacular seafood extravaganza and tantalizing candy wonderland to satisfy every sweet tooth. The cost is $64 plus tax and gratuity per adult; and half-price, $32, for children under 12-years-old.

2. Tune in

PBS KIDS is kicking off Fall with three exciting announcements including upcoming Halloween-themed programming, WILD KRATTS “Predator Week” programming, and a new educational iPhone app, SID’s Science Fair!

PBS KIDS gears up for Halloween with a bevy of Halloween-themed episodes, including brand new episodes of science-focused series DINOSAUR TRAIN, SID THE SCIENCE KID, THE CAT IN THE HAT KNOWS A LOT ABOUT THAT!, and WILD KRATTS. Episodes air from October 17th through October 31st.

WILD KRATTS “Predator Week”: WILD KRATTS “Predator Week” will feature four brand new episodes from October 17th through the 21st where the Kratts brothers will cover natural science concepts through storylines about predators such as great white sharks, wolves, cheetahs and raptors.

Sid’s Science Fair App: Based on the animated preschool series SID THE SCIENCE KID from The Jim Henson Company, Sid’s Science Fair App encourages children ages 3 to 6 to explore and experience science. Sid’s Science Fair supports PBS KIDS’ curricular focus on STEM – science, technology, engineering and math.

3. Trick or Treat?!

Look ma–no cavities! If you’re on the hunt for something to help make it a healthy Halloween, you might want to put the candy away; give those ghosts, witches and goblins Wikkies instead. 10 out of 10 dentists approve! Wikki Stix make it easy with the Trick-or-Treat Pak- 50 individually wrapped Wikki units ready for the plastic pumpkins! Each has 8 Wikki Stix and a Halloween playsheet. The creative, fun (non-toxic, no mess, made in the USA) toys are perfect for kids’ ages three and up.

Right now you get a free Halloween Fun Kit with the purchase of each Trick-or-Treat Pak (offer expires 10/21). The Halloween Fun Kit is packed with seven fun activities- make a spider web, window decorations, Halloween masks; even decorate a pumpkin with your Wikkies!

(Long Island, N.Y.) Is back to school prime-time for the blues…or something more serious? “Some of the expected bumps in the road back to school include difficulties with time management – like getting to bed early, waking up early, making sure a good meal starts the day, getting homework and studying done and not being short on school supplies,” says Deborah Serani, Psy.D, a Long Island based author and psychologist.

“The hope is that, with practice and repletion, kids shift into school mode within a few weeks – and that time management isn’t a tug of war between a parent and child.”

Physically, children are required to adhere to rules, structure and limits at school, which can be tough for those who have active tendencies, explains Serani. Teachers know that it can take time for wigglers and gigglers to settle down into the classroom structure. “Again, within a few weeks, students generally are used to the rhythm school day,” she says.

Generally speaking, the second month of school is when teachers and parents can get a good sense as to how a child is doing, Serani says. Routines and schedules are pretty much second nature now, and if a child is struggling socially, academically or physically getting to school, in school, or after school, it’s time to consider a closer look. Here’s her expert advice:

1) Situational versus Clinical Symptoms: It’s important to determine if your child’s symptoms of fearfulness, worry, sadness or irritability are related to a situation going on at school – or if a clinical disorder might be operating. Situational symptoms occur because something is pressing on a child’s life (A test, a bully at recess). And when that situation goes away, the child returns to a sense of well-being. Rule of thumb is to use the yardstick of 2 weeks if a child’s symptoms of anxiety or depression continue, and there doesn’t seem to be a situation related to it. If a child is experiencing stomach aches, headaches, crying, avoidance or temper tantrum for more than ten days, there may be a mental health concern. It’s vital to know that Pediatric mental health issues are not something that readily goes away on their own.

2) Build a Team: Parents, teachers and school personnel should work together to evaluate the child’s emotional, academic and social experiences at school. If necessary, outside medical and mental health professionals should be added to the team. This is the best approach to determine if a clinical disorder like pediatric depression or anxiety is the reason why a child is struggling in school.

3) Early Detection is Key: Studies show that early diagnosis of pediatric mental health issues is extremely not just helpful in identifying illness. Emerging research shows that diagnosing early interrupts the negative courses of some mental illnesses, improves recovery and increases the likelihood of complete remission. And remember, children are not being labeled as problems; their symptoms are identified as being problems.

Dr. Deborah Serani, award-winning author and psychologist, will be signing her new book “Depression and Your Child: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers” at Book Revue, 313 New York Avenue in Huntington, NY, Saturday, September 28th at 7pm.

(Long Island, N.Y.) Back-to-school is by far my favorite time of year! It also means back to our routine and crazy-hectic schedules. Even as my kids get older, I find it’s still so important to read with them before bed. It’s the best way to connect and unwind from a busy day.

There are a few books that have long been bedtime favorites. Karma Wilson’s Bear Snores On first engaged my little ‘listeners’ and as time went by, I watched the little light bulbs flicker, blink and then brightly shine on. Slowly, the words and thoughts were coming together-what an amazing thing to witness as a parent, and for that, Bear (and his faithful friends) will always hold a special place in my heart.

I caught up with Karma Wilson for a quickie chat about her success as a children’s author-and her latest, “Bear’s Loose Tooth“. Her books have received numerous state and national awards, been translated into dozens of languages, and a few have made an appearance on the New York Times bestseller list.

Kids of all ages seem to love “Bear”! How did you first come up with the idea for this quite likeable character?
I had avoided writing in rhyme and using talking animals for the first 3 years of my career. But I was personally drawn to those types of books when making purchasing decisions for my daycare and my own children. I decided to buck the trend, and write a rhyming talking animal book. Since I lived in the wilds of North Idaho a bear seemed like a natural protagonist for me to choose. He has grown more loveable and childlike with every book, and I am so glad I decided that rules were optional!

Were you a little surprised by your amazing success?

A little? I was more surprised than anybody! When my editor called to tell me that Bear Snores On had made the NYT bestsellers list, she asked if I was sitting down. I lied. As soon as she told me I slumped down into the chair, astounded and speechless!

I love how you have a Teacher’s Resource page on your site, with activity ideas, character introductions, etc.–do you get a lot of great feedback from that?

Teachers and parents alike seem to appreciate that section. I’m currently in a major reconstruction that will fix a few broken links and add a lot more activities and lesson plans. I also strongly encourage people to connect with me on my Facebook page.

I love social media and would like to expand my connection with schools, libraries and families on Facebook and eventually through my website.

So your latest book, “Bear’s Loose Tooth” is available in bookstores right now. How are your ‘little’ fans reacting to Bear losing a tooth (just like them!)?

So far reaction from my school visits has been ENORMOUSLY good. I’ve had whole auditoriums of 1st and 2nd graders shouting BEAR’S LOOSE TOOTH at the top of their lungs! They all seem to relate to the idea of the angst and excitement of losing that first tooth. I certainly remember it from childhood!

Ok, one last question. Can you give us any clue (or hint) what Bear might be up to next? Are you working on a new one already?

Bear is always up to something! The next installment of Bear will be fall themed and called Bear Says Thanks. It’s giving a nod to Thanksgiving while being broad enough to allow for year round read aloud. And it teaches manners without specifically beating kids over the head with the lesson. I’m really excited about it!

(Long Island, N.Y.) If you’re looking for the ultimate Jersey shore beach house, you might want to read on. Have you ever imagined GTL-ing in your very own second home down the shore? Well, that dream will be a reality for one very lucky Trump One card holder this upcoming Labor Day Weekend.

Sure, it’s a long shot but someone’s going to score a very swanky condo, and as the saying goes, “you’ve gotta be in it to win it.” Sure, gambling isn’t the answer to the financial crisis we’re all facing right now, but if you plan to hit AC for a fun way to decompress a bit, you might want to toss your name into this hat.

Here’s The Deal

Trump Taj Mahal recently announced that one lucky Trump One card holder will be selected to win a Beach Condominium at The Ocean Club on Sunday, September 4th at 6pm. The Ocean Club Condominium Association is an all-inclusive condominium complex located at 3101 Boardwalk Avenue. This complex boasts 750 condominiums with sprawling balcony views of downtown Atlantic City and the Atlantic Ocean. Winners will receive a condo worth up to $250,000.

Atlantic City casinos have given away vacation homes for a week or two, but Trump Taj Mahal is giving away actual real-deal home ownership, and according to Kathleen McSweeney, senior vice president of marketing for Trump Taj Mahal, “We’re excited to give one of our players the opportunity to make Atlantic City their second home.”

Hit The Jackpot

With a great central location, the Ocean Club is just minutes away from casinos, restaurants, shopping and more. Residents will have access to all amenities located on the grounds including a full tennis court, an aerobics room and a fully equipped gym. The Ocean Club also offers a Jacuzzi, steam room, card room, library and beautiful pool located on the sixth floor. Additional perks for Ocean Club residents include a full time concierge service located in the lobby, 24-hour security, and valet and self-parking. Pets are also welcome.

Trump One Card Holders can earn entries by playing slots or table games with their Trump One card between August 1st and September 4th. Complete details are available at Trump One Services.

Feeling Lucky?

If you plan to test your luck (hey, you really never know!) here are some other things going to at Taj you might want to check out:

Skydive Adventure Sweepstakes: August 17th – In honor of the Atlantic City Air Show, Trump Taj Mahal is giving away 10 skydives to winners on August 17th. One skydive will be given away every hour from noon to 9pm. Winners will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of skydiving in tandem with a professional skydiver from Freefall Adventures.

The Price is Right Guaranteed Contestant Search: August 26th – On Friday, August 26th, you are invited to audition to be the next contestant on the Price is Right. Two people who attend the contestant search at Trump Taj Mahal are guaranteed to be chosen to fly to Los Angeles and to be part of the audience. One person is guaranteed to be a contestant on the show. There will also be a special guest appearance by the new announcer of the Price Is Right, George Gray.

Magic Hat Sweepstakes: Saturdays and Sundays in August – Every Saturday and Sunday in August, winners will select one of three, “Magic Hats” and Abracadabra! Win gifts, gift cards, comp dollars and more. Drawings will be held from 2pm to 6pm and one winner is guaranteed every hour!

Dodge Caliber Sweepstakes: August 20th – On Saturday, August 20th at 10pm, one lucky player will be selected to win a 2011 Dodge Caliber.

(Long Island, N.Y.) If you’re looking for a family-friendly late summer getaway or want to plan a weekend escape to catch some awesome fall foliage, look no further than the Finger Lakes region. The Finger Lakes, eleven pristine lakes spread like fingers across central New York, encompasses 9,000 plus square miles of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery with a nice mix of urban hot spots.

It’s an easy to drive too and there’s also a wealth of activities for families. In addition to boating, grape stomping, apple picking, hiking, biking and fishing, the Finger Lakes are home to the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY, which houses the National Toy Hall of Fame. Here are a few family-friendly activities the region offers:

1. Strong National Museum of Play: Home to the National Toy Hall of Fame®, the International Center for the History of Electronic GamesT, and the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, games and other items that celebrate play. Families will want to play all day in the dynamic, hands-on exhibits: sit on the famous Sesame Street steps, pilot a giant helicopter, walk through a giant kaleidoscope, follow the yellow brick road into Reading Adventureland where favorite children’s stories come to life and even enjoy tropical weather year-round in the foliage-filled Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden populated by hundreds of free flying butterflies. Every exhibit is truly fun to play in for visitors of all ages. Admission fees are: $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8 for children 2-15, and children under two enter free. Website: www.museumofplay.org/.

2. Feed Your Need for Speed: Race Around a NASCAR Track: Drive your family around the same track that NASCAR pros race on via a Thunder Road Tour at the famed Watkins Glen International Racetrack. Yes even minivans are welcome!! From April 26th through November 1st, the track offers tours that include three paced laps beginning at noon each day for just $25. For more information please visit www.theglen.com/Plan-Your-Visit/The-Shop.aspx.

3. Swim Under Waterfalls: As Ithaca’s famed green t-shirts will tell you, “Ithaca is Gorges.” Not just “gorges” to look at, but to swim in, too. For $8 per carload, families can swim under a beautiful waterfall at Robert Treman State Park in Ithaca, NY.

4. Flying in the Finger Lakes: Known as the Soaring Capital of America, the Finger Lakes offer families a unique opportunity to learn how to fly. Families can soar in a glider at Harris Hill, visit the world’s largest sailplane collection at the National Soaring Museum, or learn to fly their own at Elmira’s Soaring school at Wings of Eagles Discovery Center. Also available within a few miles are helicopter, small plane and tandem hang gliding rides.

5. Reconnect with nature for FREE: Watkins Glen State Park: Acres of enchanted waterfalls, awe-inspiring caverns and caves await hiking, biking, waterfall spotting, kayaking, bird watching, picnics and more at inspiring Watkins Glen State Park. For more information, please visit: www.watkinsglenchamber.com/Home/Visitors/Things-to-do/Outdoor-activities.aspx.

6. Hop in to Letchworth State Park: Known as “The Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is one of the region’s crown jewels. The park spans 14 thousand acres along the Genesee River and offers stunning scenery, gorges, miles of trails, swimming pools and more. Photographers, families and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy this year-round vacation spot. Vehicle entrance fee is $8. Website: www.fingerlakeswest.com.

7. Visit Taughannock Falls: Known for breathtaking waterfalls, the drop at Taughannock Falls is around 215 feet, making it a larger drop than Niagara Falls. Website: www.taughannock.com.

8. Chemung County is Mark Twain Country: It was in Elmira, NY that he traveled when he sought refuge to live out his private life and write. As 2010 marked the 175th anniversary of his death and 125th anniversary of the release of Huck Finn, Chemung County launched a new Twain-themed putt putt golf course and a ‘Twain Trail.’ The trail features quotes by Twain scattered along the path and is available free to Twain enthusiast families. The area includes an array of paths for little ones too!

9. Fall Foliage Grandeur: Largely due to the contrasting deep blue lakes against the outrageously colorful hills, rolling valleys and rocky gorges Finger Lakes is considered one of the most stunning fall foliage displays in the U.S. Viewings are everywhere and free of course!

Where to stay: Greek Peak Mountain Resort

Greek Peak Mountain Resort is a destination family retreat. With its Cascades Indoor Waterpark (41,000 square feet of three-story tubes and body slides, wave pool, and indoor/outdoor hot tub and pool), 32 varied terrain ski trails, indoor game room, and adventure center (complete with a roller coaster, zip lining, a ropes course and more!) the resort caters to adventurous kids of all ages. Guest rooms were designed with families in mind sleeping up to 10 guests at a time and featuring fully equipped kitchens. Guests can even order food from the restaurant and cook their own menu! Children’s programs are available throughout the day for newborns to teenagers at no additional cost and babysitting services are available in the evenings.

(Long Island, N.Y.) The best part of summer, the long, carefree days of sun and fun. The worst part: Oh the humidity! I asked Nelson Chan – celebrity stylist and owner of Nelson J salon in Beverly Hills (www.nelsonjsalon.com) to help us out.

Bad hair days, why do you think moms battle this (not-so-big) but frustrating problem?

Chan: Moms are always busy and I found they don’t have time to take care of themselves. Mostly, lack of volume or too much frizz both require some skill and time to deal with these problems. Therefore, moms seem to be always the ones who battle with their hair.

Can you give me your best quick bad hair day fix for short hair?

Chan: The best quick way to fix short hair is to spray water on hair so hair can be easily restyled to create volume with quick blow-drying…etc. This trick works on most hair types.

What about gals with long hair, like mine?

Chan: Long hair, I love hot rollers. They are very easy to use and it makes your hair look like those of a Hollywood star. Yes, it’s a little old school but this old trick really works.

I know ladies with baby fine hair and curly hair have some issues, too. What do you suggest?

Chan: For fine hair, I suggest spraying some water and restyling hair by blow-drying quickly with brushes or styling hot rollers. Adding volumizer or surf spray prior to blow drying will also help a lot for volume. For curly hair, spraying water also works but instead of adding volumizer use oil then lightly diffuse hair (using a diffuser) or air dry.

Can you give me one last great tip for battling bad hair days?

Chan: I suggest to be creative when you have bad hair day. A ponytail with light teasing on top can create a very model-chic look and it does not take much time.