Syosset–Jericho Tribune 12/14/22 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

A Spectacular Day In Syosset

Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce holds 24th annual Holiday Lighting Spectacular

BY MADISON KANE editors@antonnews.com

Although the weather outside was frightful, it did not stop local residents from having a delightful time at the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce’s 24th annual Holiday Lighting Spectacular on Sunday, Dec. 4.

Many local businesses, including iSchool of Music and Art, Northwell Health Syosset and Plainview Hospitals, RPG Wealth Management Inc., James Cress Florist, and the Bell Law Group, PLLC, sponsored the event. Upon arrival, the One River School of Art and Design, another event sponsor, held a booth for children to make an arts and crafts project before the show began. A stand with hand warmers was also available for audience members. The evening began with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Dylan Linde, followed by a speech from chamber president Russell Green. The microphone was then handed over to elected officials of Nassau County to spread the holiday spirit. Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, 16th District Legislator Arnie Drucker, 18th District County Legislator Josh Lafazan and New York State Assemblyman-elect Jake Blumencranz were all recognized.

Lafazan felt very strongly about the spirit of the holiday season, as he expressed abundant gratitude towards the community.

“This time of year is amazing, and it’s about so much,” Lafazan said. “It’s about togetherness, it’s about family, it’s about inclusivity. It’s about belonging, my simple messages, it’s also about gratitude. It’s about gratitude for living in the greatest country on Earth. It’s about gratitude for our health, our family and our friends. From the bottom of my heart, it’s about

gratitude for continuing to let me serve this community that raised me. I love public service, I love this job, and I love all of you. Thank you and happy holidays.”

Father Mike from St. Edward the Confessor and Rabbi Jay Weinstein from Congregation Simchat HaLev were also called to say a few words about the holiday season.

“We asked God, the Father, to give us the grace to be open to what he wants us to experience during this time of year so that we can have a profound change in our hearts,” Father Mike prayed. “It could help us to grow together. Not only as a community here in Oyster Bay and Syosset, but a community that can expand out to the whole world and love and joy that we all

share together.”

Rabbi Weinstein added, “Experience a holiday season that’s magical, filled with family and friends, warmth, deep spiritual nourishment, meaning, and joy. In this season of miracles, teach us G-d to treasure each day and the blessings that we have in our lives, and the blessings we have in the practice of our own individual faith traditions. Open our hearts to the radiance that shines forth from every human soul.”

After many thoughts about the holiday season were shared, the performances started.

The first act was a North Shore Performing Arts Center dance called “Marshmallow World.”

Member of North Shore Performing Arts

Center, Emma Sanders, has been performing at the tree lighting since 2018. Each year, Sanders always looks forward to the next tree lighting, as she always has a great time spreading holiday spirit through art.

“The radiant positivity that the audience brings is something I constantly look forward to,” she said. “We have been a part of this tradition for so many years and it’s not only fun practicing in the studio, but being able to perform in front of an audience who genuinely enjoys our performance, and the Christmas spirit we bring.”

Outstanding performances followed the opening act. The performances that came after “Marshmallow World” were “Jingle Bell Rock” by the Syosset High School (SHS) Adelettes, “Frosty the Snowman” by the SHS Adelettes and Choral Pride, “Silent Night” by The Children’s Orchestra Society Mallets and Bars, “Winter Wonderland” by Luca Alexandro, an “All I Want for Christmas” dance by North Shore Performing Arts Center, “Ave Maria” by The Elite Ensemble of the Children’s Orchestra Society, “Silver Bells” and “Hanukkah Oh Hanukkah” by the iSchool of Music and Art Choir, “Baby Please Come Home for Christmas” and “Jingle Bell Rock” by the iSchool of Music and Art Choir, and to finish off, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” performed by Dylan Linde.

After Linde finished belting out the lyrics to the Christmas classic, Santa arrived on the scene, escorted by the Syosset Fire Department. Seconds after his arrival, the beautiful Christmas tree stood tall, fully lit up, spreading holiday cheer to downtown Syosset.

Overall, the traditional Holiday Lighting Spectacular was a cheerful event where community members came together to celebrate the holiday season.

—Madison Kane is a softmore at Jericho High School.

Festival Of Laser Light Show Coming To North Shore Synagogue

The “Festival of Light” show tells the story of Chanukah through a laser show.

“With fog, the Chanukah story becomes a duel of light beams, replete with fantastic laser beam and lighting effects,” a post on the synagogue’s Facebook page read. “The show culminates with a giant menorah lighting you’ll never forget – each flame glowing with a different color, creating shadows in the fog right over you.”

North Shore Synagogue will be lighting up the first night of Hanukkah (Chanukah) on Dec. 18 at 4:30 p.m. in the parking lot of North Shore Synagogue, 83 Muttontown Eastwoods Rd. in Syosset.

The designer of the show is Wondergy, which puts on science shows including “DroneScience,” “Laser Science” and, of course, “Festival of Light.” The company is based in Philadelphia. Company founder Ken Fink said in a video explain -

ing the “Festival of Light” show that he started the company in 2002 when he was putting on science-based birthday parties to pay for graduate school. He learned through doing these parties that people enjoy learning for fun. Time and energy is poured into these shows, but ultimately all the different pieces it takes comes together to bring a bright, fun and unique display that will ultimately educate its viewers.

The show costs $10, which will also get attendees two vouchers for the food trucks that will be there. Fare served will include hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, veggie burgers, fries, latkes, fried Oreos,

zeppoles, churros, drinks, hot chocolate, coffee and more.

Jacquelynn Golub, the executive director of North Shore Synagogue, said everyone is excited for this show.

“It’s for people to understand the story of Chanukah, spread the message of Chanukah, reach children and adults and give them some entertainment in a fun way,” Golub said. “It’s the first night of Chanukah, so the Rabbi Jaimee Shalhevet will be lighting the menorah and will be singing songs with our community.”

RSVP by emailing registration@northshoresynagogue.org or visit www.facebook. com/NorthShoreSynagogue/.

The beautiful Christmas tree stood tall, fully lit up, spreading holiday cheer to downtown Syosset. (Photos by Madison Kane)

State DOT Will Upgrade Northern State Parkway Interchange With Jericho Turnpike, Glen Cove Road

Additional lanes, raised median and improved pedestrian accommodations

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez announced the start of a $3.8 million project to enhance safety and mobility at the interchange between Glen Cove Road, Jericho Turnpike (State Route 25) and the Northern State Parkway in Nassau County. Additional lanes, a raised median, upgraded signals and other improvements will reduce congestion and ease travel at this busy intersection at the border of the villages of Westbury and Old Westbury that is used by travelers to reach numerous nearby shopping centers, residential neighborhoods and recreational facilities. New sidewalks, curb ramps and a raised pedestrian island on the southwest quadrant of the intersection will also be added to better accommodate pedestrians.

“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is committed to making smart investments in our transportation network to enhance safety and strengthen the connections that tie our communities together,” said Dominguez. “This project will help ease congestion and improve mobility for motorists and pedestrians through one of Long Island’s busiest interchanges, providing new momentum to an already

vibrant area.”

As part of this project, the ramp connecting the Northern State Parkway to the intersection of Glen Cove Road and Jericho Turnpike will be widened to improve traffic flow for the thousands of vehicles who travel this route every day. Other improve-

ments include:

•New additional turning lane on northbound Glen Cove Road leading to westbound Jericho Turnpike;

•Addition of a second lane on the offramp from westbound Northern State Parkway to northbound Glen Cove Road;

•Installation of a raised median on Glen Cove Road to eliminate illegal left turns from the Northern State Parkway exit ramp;

•Modernization of existing traffic signals and pedestrian crossings along Glen Cove Road and Jericho Turnpike, including new countdown timers, sidewalks and curb ramps.

Night work will be utilized during the project to minimize traffic disruptions during the project, which is expected to be complete by the summer of 2023.

Assemblymember Ed Ra said, “I am very grateful to see the local impact of our investments in DOT capital funds. This $3.8 million dollar project will improve the safety and efficiency of travel at the interchange of Glen Cove Road, Jericho Turnpike and the Northern State Parkway and will reduce traffic congestion for Nassau County residents.”

Motorists are urged to plan accordingly and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver license.

—Submitted by the State Department of Transportation

Town Of Oyster Bay Hosts Oyster Shell Recycling Program With Boys And Girls Club

Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Michele Johnson and Town Clerk Rich LaMarca recently hosted The Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club Kids in Nature (KIN) Program at Beekman Beach for an Oyster Shell Collection Program. Held in coordination with the Town’s Oyster Shell Recycling Program, the event featured an educational presentation from environmental experts and an opportunity for the teenage volunteer group to

walk the beach’s shoreline, collecting oyster shells. Shellfish are essential mollusks in the local marine environment as they filter water through their feeding mechanisms. A single adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of seawater per day, making shellfish Mother Nature’s most valuable marine cleansers and improving our water quality for generations to come.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Town Of Oyster Bay’s DVD Collection Drive A Success

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph

Saladino and Town Clerk Rich LaMarca celebrated the success of the Town’s DVD Collection Drive in partnership with the Massapequa-based “Big Hy for Heroes” organization.

Thanks to residents’ overwhelming generosity, DVDs will now be sent to those deployed and serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces, along with children in children’s hospitals. Chaplains, Commanding Officers, Sergeant Majors and

Sergeants around the globe will oversee their distribution and arrange movie nights this holiday season.

Supervisor Saladino also honored the Big Hy for Heroes Organization. Founded in 2002 by Massapequa resident and WWII veteran Hyman Strachman with the help of his son Arthur Strachman, Big Hy for Heroes has shipped hundreds of thousands of DVDs all around the world, and continues to do so today.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

(Rendering credit: New York State Department of Transportation)

Supervisor Joseph Saladino also honored the Big Hy for Heroes Organization. Founded in 2002 by Massapequa resident and WWII veteran Hyman Strachman with the help of his son Arthur Strachman, Big Hy for Heroes has shipped hundreds of thousands of DVDs all around the world. (Photo courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club enjoyed a an educational presentation from environmental experts and an opportunity to walk the beach’s shoreline.

(Photo courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

To place an item in this space, send information two weeks before the event to editors@antonmediagroup.com.

THURSDAY, DEC. 15

Decoding the Mysteries of Cats

In this digital event at 7:30 p.m., join cat behaviorist Stephen Quandt for a fascinating presentation on cat behavior, followed by a Q&A where you will have a chance to ask your own questions. Email Trending@ syossetlibrary.org or visit syosset.librarycalendar.com to register.

FRIDAY, DEC. 16

Sensory Storytime

Children ages 2 to 5 are invited to the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane in Jericho, for Sensory Storytime. This is a special program designed for children who may need extra sensory support. It combines traditional storytime components with sensory elements to enhance the experience. Visit jericholibrary.org to register.

Movie & Q&A: Impresarios and Visionaries

From 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road in Syosset, past Syosset resident and Syosset High School Alum, Steven Taub, will be showing his documentary film that celebrates the arts and art presenters. The film features

Ed Burns (actor), David Bromberg (singer and songwriter), John Platt (reality show producer), Sandy Chapin (Harry Chapin’s wife) and an esteemed array of musicians laying down the film soundtrack. The film is 42 minutes long and Taub will be answering questions at the end of the showing.

I’ll Be Home For Christmas Concert

Faith Lutheran Church, 231 Jackson Ave. in Syosset, will be hosting a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. featuring Travis Bloom and Shelton Love. Enjoy holiday favorites with a wine and cheese reception following. Freewill donations will be accepted. For more information, call 516-921-3330.

SUNDAY, DEC. 18

Menorah Lighting

At 4 p.m., the community will gather at 50 Jackson Ave. in Syosset to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah by lighting the community menorah.

MONDAY, DEC. 19

Pajama Book Buddies

This program from 7 to 7:45 p.m. in the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road in Syosset, is for children ages 3-anda-half to second grade. Teen volunteers will read to the children in the library. Children can enjoy storytime in their pajamas with

their favorite stuffed animal. Caregivers must remain in the library while their child is attending the program. Teens should come at 6:45, also wearing pajamas if they’d like, to read to the children.

explored. Visit www.jericholibrary.org to register.

Study Skills Workshop

With GPA being the primary determining factor for colleges when identifying strong candidates, it is essential that students develop strong study skills and habits.

Hosted by C2education at the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Ln. in Jericho, at 7 p.m., learn how to create a study plan, how to stay organized and when and where to study right in time for mid-term assessments. Visit www.jericholibrary.org to register.

ONGOING EVENTS: Coat Drive At The Jericho And Syosset Public Library

TUESDAY, DEC. 20

Hybrid: A Visual History Of Santa With Chris Vivas

In this virtual program at 2 p.m. from the Jericho Public Library, learn all about Santa. The legend of Santa began with St. Nicholas in modern-day Turkey. Christmas was banned in England and during the early days of Colonial America. The image of Santa was largely a product of commercialism. Join the Jericho Public Library as the visual image of this iconic symbol of Christmas is

There will be a coat drive for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless at the Jericho and Syosset Public Library. The drive will be held through Dec. 21. Clean and gently used or new coats for all ages and sizes will be accepted. Give the gift of warmth this season.

Milleridge Village Holiday Village

Through Dec. 24 on Friday, Saturday and Sundays, the Milleridge Village will become a winter wonderland. There will be a Polar Express Train, bounces and inflatables, an Escape Santa’s Cabin attraction, surprise characters, holiday lights and sweet treats. Visit www.milleridgeinn.com for more information.

Fall can be a very exciting time, with the season changing, the weather cooling and the holidays looming ahead. It is also the perfect time to think about how you can nally deliver on your commitment to doing something for yourself. Back to the gym, back to the diet, the new season brings with it the impetus to look better and feel better.

Utilizing only the latest and most advanced surgical approach, your recovery is fast and the sooner you act, the sooner you’ll look fantastic. Get ready for your winter vacation or spruce up for the holidays with SmartLipo MPX®, the most advanced technique in liposuction available. This technology is light years ahead of competing liposuction systems with less bruising and a shorter recovery time. If you have been considering a Tummy Tuck post-pregnancy or weight loss, this procedure will have you in great shape in a very short period of time and you can show o that terri c gure at the upcoming holiday parties.

It is often a combination of services that produces the best result, many times including breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reduction, with the appropriate procedure determined by each individual’s body. Several packages are designed to address your speci c needs. Ultimate Breasts includes breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction – separately or in combination--

for the most beautiful, natural looking results.

If childbirth has made some changes to your body that you would like to correct, the Mommy Makeover package provides the right combination of tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift or implants as well as cellulite treatments to transform the body back to its youthful aesthetic. About Face turns back the hands of time with the appropriate combination of facelift, eyelid lift, rhinoplasty, chin reshaping and more. If this isn’t the time for a surgical procedure, a Liquid Facelift requires just 20 minutes to restore and contour the cheeks, eyes, jawline and lips to refresh and rejuvenate the face. My cutting-edge device Morpheus8 remodels collagen on the face and body to eliminate ne lines and wrinkles while improving skin tone, texture and laxity for a more youthful appearance. CoolPeel is the coolest new way to rejuvenate crepey skin on the face and neck achieving the bene ts of CO2 without the extensive downtime.

Now that the kids are getting back to school, this is the perfect time to have the cosmetic procedure or treatment that you’ve always wanted and start on the path to a younger looking you! Schedule your complimentary consultation today, call 516-364-4200 or visitwww.GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com.

Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg is a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery. He has offices in Woodbury, Southampton and Manhattan. For a complimentary consultation, call 516-364-4200 if you have a question

Bring your stuffed animal to the Syosset Public Library for a storytime. (Photo courtesy Baltimore County Public Library via Wikimedia Commons)

for Dr. Greenberg, please e-mail him at docstg@aol.com, or visit the web at www.GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com

Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall Of Fame Opens To Public

The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) recently announced the grand opening of the organization’s first physical facility and Long Island’s very first Hall of Fame at 97 Main St. in Stony Brook Village. The location is near other Long Island cultural centers including The Long Island Museum, The Jazz Loft and The Reboli Center.

“We are thrilled our organization has found a permanent home in such a wonderful location,” LIMEHOF Chairman Ernie Canadeo said. “We’re excited to be able to share our world-class displays and unique memorabilia collection that showcases Long Island’s rich and diverse musical and entertainment history in new and exciting ways. We feature different and exciting exhibits, displays, videos and education offerings that make the center a dynamic place for people to visit on a regular basis.”

Founded in 2004, the nonprofit LIMEHOF is dedicated to the idea that Long Island’s musical heritage is an important resource to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. The organization, which encompasses New York State’s Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Kings (Brooklyn) Counties, was created as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music in all its forms. To date, the organization has inducted more than 100 musicians and music industry executives, and offers education programs, scholarships and awards to Long Island students and educators. LIMEHOF has strong associations and community support, including Catholic Health, which is the presenting sponsor and a strong supporter.

More than 250 guests and inductees recently attended a special VIP preview event on Nov. 22 to see the first exhibit. Inductees in attendance included founding and current members of Blue Öyster Cult (bassist Joe Bouchard, Albert Bouchard and drummer Jules Radino), Zebra (guitarist Randy Jackson, bassist Felix Hanemann and drummer Guy Gelso), The Brooklyn Bridge (Jimmy Rosica), Parrish Smith from EPMD, Granddaddy IU, and Twisted Sister (guitarist Jay Jay French and Mark “The Animal” Mendoza), Music journalist Wayne Robins, John Gatto from The Good Rats, singer/songwriter Jen Chapin, Paula Janis and Carole Demas of The Magic Garden , singer/songwriter Elliott Murphy, Ira Maltz, CSS Security. Stanton Anderson (Mark Fowler), LIMEHOF board member Sandra Taylor (daughter of LIMEHOF inductee Sam

Taylor) and Lawrence Worrell, stage name L.A.W. from Planet 12 (grandson of LIMEHOF inductee Sam Taylor) and more. There were also live performances by Zebra, The Blue Öyster Cult, Jen Chapin, Paula Janis and Carole Demas of The Magic Garden and other inductees.

North Babylon Resident Cliff Schlesinger was the first public visitor to the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame when it opened on Nov. 25. Schlesinger says he was most excited to see the first exhibit, “Long Island’s Legendary Club Scene–1960’s to 1980’s,” which is designed to be a club crawl through Long Island’s legendary ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s club scene.

“We used to go everywhere from Speaks in Island Park to The Mad Hatter in Stony Brook,” Schlesinger said. “We used to go everywhere… Twisted Sister and Zebra and all those bands so I can’t wait to see that exhibit.”

The first exhibit features replicas of clubs, with videos of artists performing, ads, posters, instruments and an exact replica of a typical 1960’s stage, with vintage equipment and sound system. There is also a permanent “Hall of Fame” with plaques and exhibits recognizing more than 120 inductees, as well as areas for a library, classrooms for educational programs and master classes, a surround -sound theater and a gift shop with music and entertainment themed memorabilia.

There is a wide range of compelling visual elements and rare artifacts on display throughout the building. Inducted artists who have donated their memorabilia include Billy Joel, Joan Jett, Debbie Gibson, Blue Öyster Cult, Twisted Sister and families and estates of Harry Chapin, Guy Lombardo, John Coltrane, and so many more. Donations include various musical instruments, performance outfits, vintage automobiles and motorcycles, rare posters and photos, handwritten lyrics and much more.

More than 500 public visitors came out to see LIMEHOF on its opening weekend. Also, LIMEHOF Inductee Richie Cannata performed on stage along with Mark Newman and LIMEHOF Long Island Sound Award Winner Kerry Kearney.

The Hall of Fame and Museum is open Wednesdays to Sundays, from noon through 5 p.m. Admission prices are adult $19.50, seniors (65+) and veterans $17, students (with identification) $15, children under 12 are free. Tickets can be purchased online at the www.LIMEHOF.org website and at the door.

—Submitted by the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame

Ribbon cutting at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame VIP Preview event on Nov. 22

North Babylon Resident Cliff Schlesinger becomes the first public visitor to LIMEHOF.

From left: Richard Branciforte, Cliff Schlesinger, Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Chairman Ernie Canadeo, exhibit designer Kevin O’Callaghan and board member Jim Faith (Photo Credit Ed Shin/LIMEHOF)

LIMEHOF inductees Paula Janis and Carole Demas of The Magic Garden (Photo credit: Photographer Ed Shin/Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame)

Cowbell donated by Blue Oyster Cult on display at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (Photo Credit LIMEHOF)

Farmingdale Wins Long Island Football Championship

Farmingdale has traditionally been one of Nassau County’s most decorated football programs. They have added another chapter to their storied history this season with convincing wins in the Nassau County and Long Island championship games. While titles have eluded them over the last few years, Farmingdale came back in dominant fashion in 2022.

The Dalers have finished this magical season with a 12-0 record. The Village of Farmingdale celebrated their champions with a parade down Main Street on Sunday, Dec. 4.

The season was capped in a thrilling Long Island Championship game against Ward Melville. Senior running back Tomaso Ramos carried the Dalers to victory. He rushed for an incredible 392 yards on 34 carries, ran for three touchdowns and had a touchdown reception as Farmingdale beat the Patriots, 42-20, in the Long Island Class I championship game at LaValle Stadium at Stony Brook University.

In addition to his ground and pound approach, Ramos added two receptions for 45 yards in the game which gave him 437 all-purpose yards. That established a new record for the Long Island Championships.

“I wasn’t expecting to do this at all, but when they call my name, I’ve got to go,” Ramos said after the game.

It was the second time that Farmingdale captured the Long Island title, the first coming in 2001. Legendary Farmingdale coach Buddy Krumenacker has

taken 10 teams to the Long Island Championships and has now come away with two wins.

“To play in the Long Island championship is great, but we’ve stumbled here,” Krumenacker said. “This is our 10th appearance. But I’d want to be here 10 times and lose eight than not be here. There’s no doubt about that.”

The road to the Long Island Championship started with a 35-0 win over Port Washington in the Nassau quarterfinals. That was followed by a 42-7 victory over Syosset in the semifinals. That set

up the Nassau County championship game against long-time rival Massapequa, the defending Nassau County champions.

Farmingdale wasted no time jumping out to a quick lead against Massapequa and ultimately ran away with the game. Quarterback Anthony Licci completed 14 of 17 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns. Ramos rushed for 108 yards and two touchdowns and Joe Burriesci caught seven passes for 124 yards (two TDs) and recorded an interception.

Farmingdale showed its poise,

executing the two-minute drill in the waning moments of the first half. Licci led the Dalers on a threeplay, 65-yard drive that finished with a strike to Burriesci for a touchdown and 21-0 halftime lead. In the end, it all added up to a 38-7 win for Farmingdale at Hofstra’s Stuart Stadium and a trip to the Long Island Championships.

Throughout the three-game Nassau County playoffs, Farmingdale outscored its opponents 115-14. They captured their 17th Nassau County title in school history and the first title since 2015. The Dalers posted five shutouts this season and over the course of 12 games, outscored opponents, 510-101. Ramos finished the season with more than 1,000 rushing yards while Licci passed for over 1,000 yards.

“I’ve been dreaming of this since I was in elementary school,” Ramos said. “This is where I’ve always wanted to be.”

—James Rowan in an Anton Media Group contributor

Your 2022 Long Island Class I champions—the Farmingdale High School Dalers

Bruce Blakeman Nassau County Executive

COLUMNS

Hanukkah Greeting

On Sunday evening, Dec. 18, Jews around the world will come together to light the first candle of Hanukkah, otherwise known as The Festival of Lights. At its heart, this uplifting holiday is about the achievement of justice in the face of overwhelming odds. It is an opportunity to reflect on the triumph of liberty over tyranny, and in fact that miracles can happen even in the darkest moments. Though they were outnumbered in people and in means, the Maccabees’ dedication to their cause was unwavering, and thus these brave warriors emerged victorious over an oppressive Greek regime.

Hanukkah is the only Jewish holiday that celebrates a military victory. Because there is a tension in the Jewish tradition between the responsibility to defend the right to religious freedom and the reluctance to bear arms, the ancient Maccabees fought only

RABBI MOSHE WEISBLUM

when doing so was vital for survival. They went forth with great faith in our Creator, believing, in the words of our biblical prophet, Isiah, that “not by might and not by power but by the spirit of the Holy One” would they achieve victory. While fully knowing that it was their responsibility to fight for what mattered to them,

the Maccabees also hoped for miracles and prayed for wisdom. Their small beam of hope became a huge radiance of triumph and everlasting happiness for the Jewish people. This shining light, which burned continuously both in their hearts and in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem back then, illuminates Jewish homes and synagogues throughout the world today. The glow of the menorah reminds us of a just and loving Creator’s blessing, and of the countless sacrifices made over the centuries for faith and freedom. As American Jews, we owe a special debt of gratitude to the United States, for its offering us the greatest freedom of religious expression in our history.

During the eight days of Hanukkah, let us all be inspired by the knowledge that light can overcome darkness. During this season of light, let’s all renew

Boycott The Qatar World Cup

Soccer fans across the world are tuning in to watch the 2022 World Cup. American fans reading this are probably feeling glum: the United States Soccer Team took a crushing defeat at the hands of the Netherlands on Dec. 3, losing 3 – 1. But underneath that devastating loss is something far more sinister. Scratch just below the glitzy surface of the Qatar World Cup and you unearth a treasure trove of horrendous human rights abuses on the part of the Qatari government in preparation for this year’s World Cup.

Corruption, scandal and controversy is nothing new to the International Federation of Association Football (commonly known as FIFA), the governing body of international soccer. The Federation was indicted in 2015 on “racketeering [and] wire fraud and money laundering conspiracies, among other offenses,” allegedly had two members of its executive committee bribed to vote to have Qatar host the 2022 World Cup and in 2018 granted the World Cup to Russia, an authoritarian dictatorship that four years earlier had invaded a sovereign country and illegally annexed the Crimean peninsula.

Now we are seeing a repeat. FIFA has granted Qatar, another dictatorial regime with some of the highest inequality and poorest human rights in the world, the

chance to launder its reputation clean by the World Cup.

But what is uniquely appalling with this whitewashing scheme is the horrific human cost of Qatar’s stadiums. Forget the astounding $220 billion dollars that was sunk into the World Cup (which will all go away the instant the World Cup ends). Let’s talk about the more than 6,500 migrant workers who died building Qatar’s stadiums.

Take that in for a moment—6,500. To put that in perspective, that’s roughly two deaths a day for 10 years. And just what these poor migrant workers have had to endure at the hands of the Qatari government…

Slate reports that among migrant workers, “The withholding of wages and confiscation

of passports was common.” The Guardian reports that: “Guardian analysis indicates shocking figure over the past decade likely to be an underestimate… The findings, compiled from government sources, mean an average of 12 migrant workers from these five south Asian nations have died each week… The total death toll is significantly higher as these figures do not include deaths from a number of countries which send large numbers of workers to Qatar… Behind the statistics lie countless stories of devastated families who have been left without their main breadwinner, struggling to gain compensation and confused about the circumstances of their loved one’s death.”

The Guardian piece also details the personal accounts of those who died building FIFA’s stadiums.

Madhu Bollapally was found lying dead on his accommodation’s floor; the death was classified as heart failure. His wife and son that were left behind received $1,382 for his six years of work.

Mohammad Shahid Miah paid $4,320 to work in Qatar. He died

our commitment to hope and to pray, to work and to sacrifice, and to bring about that blessed time when religious freedom will be a right, not just a dream, for all of humankind. May our readiness to defend ourselves never undermine our commitment to “seek peace and pursue it” and may this holiday season be a time of hope, happiness, peace and unity for all mankind. Amen.

Happy Hanukkah. Rabbi Dr. Moshe P. Weisblum

from electrocution when a faulty electrical cable contacted floodwater in his work camp. The debt Miah paid was passed on to his destitute parents. Qatar has provided no compensation to the Miah family.

Ghal Singh Rai paid $1,545 to work in Qatar. A week later he took his own life. It sickens me to read these stories. This was a very rare time when, in conducting research for a piece, I felt genuinely disturbed. What you’ve read here is just the tip of the iceberg.

I refuse to support this murderous regime. That’s why I’m not watching the 2022 Qatar World Cup, and I encourage all readers to do the same. I’m no soccer fan, but I love watching a soccer match and it is utterly unfair to the fans—who enjoy the beautiful form, tactics, competitiveness and athleticism of soccer—that the sport be ruined by the corruption of faceless executives and the spilling of innocent blood.

Matthew Adarichev is a public policy major at Hofstra University, a political activist and an aspiring journalist whose work has appeared in the Hofstra Chronicle and The Long Island Herald.

Karl V. Anton, Jr., Publisher, Anton Community Newspapers, 1984-2000

Publishers of Glen Cove/Oyster Bay Record Pilot Great Neck Record Manhasset Press Nassau Illustrated News Port Washington News Syosset-Jericho Tribune The Nassau Observer The Roslyn News

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COLLEGE CORNER

Matthew Adarichev

COLUMNS

If It Says N.Y.-Style Pizza—It Ain’t

Growing up on Long Island, a kid would sometimes just have to make a stand. You had to take a side. Some allegiances were built-in: your friends, your school, your Little League Baseball or Pop Warner Football team… These were no-brainers. But there were far more divisive decisions to be made that could easily set you and even your best pals or siblings tumbling across the lawn in disagreement. The Great Quisp vs. Quake Debate between me and my little brother raged on for months, as did the Bugs Bunny vs. Tom and Jerry campaign. Good Humor versus Mr. Softee “discussions” would often draw blood.

No quarter was taken here and none was given, as in the cases of: Yankees or Mets? Jets or Giants? Matchbox or Hot Wheels? Sgt. Rock or Sgt. Fury? Betty or Veronica? Officer Joe Bolton or Captain Jack McCarthy? And of course, Ginger or Mary Ann?

You can insert your personal bones of contention here: ___________.

These debates invariably carried over into what deli or pizzeria was “the best.” And the really great part about that is there were truly so many fantastic places to argue about. The Italian spectrum in Levittown included Domenico’s, Don Ciccio’s, Caruso’s and Sammy’s Inferno.

As for delis we had Torino’s and Fred’s and the half-dozen other nameless delis we just called the German Deli, Jewish Deli or the other Italian Deli. Toss in the grocery stores and bakeries and candy stores and that’s a lot of fodder to fight over.

And I have a theory that it is because of this variety and competition among the family-owned and -operated small businesses of not only Levittown, but most towns on Long Island from Mineola to Montauk, that Long Islanders have developed a more expert and discerning taste for food than almost every place else I have been. And I have been everywhere.

We Islanders might not agree on where the best pizza is to be had, but at least we know what pizza is. And that goes for bagels and pretzels and heroes and knishes and Lo Mien.

I once stopped at a “Chinese” Restaurant in Western Oklahoma and I ordered pork lo mien. I swear I got ramen noodles and bacon bits. It was then I only noticed there were no Chinese people actually working there. Never a good sign.

And chain pizza joints (from the seemingly dozens of faux-Italian crap factories) are to real pizza what Enya is to rock & roll. It just don’t work.

I have been to New York-style pizza places in Kansas, California, Tennessee, Louisiana and a dozen other states and if it says New York-style pizza—it damn sure ain’t. You can bank on that. If it says New York bagels and you ain’t in New York—it

VIEW FROM THE CORN FIELD

damn sure ain’t.

I think it’s okay if you think pizza should be made with gouda and asparagus and guacamole, but call it what it is. If it is your own misguided attempt to improve upon pizza, then say it. But don’t slander my state with your suspect culinary creativity.

If you want to put gooseberries and sunflower seeds on your bagels, go for it. But don’t say you got that idea on Long Island.

And if you think I might be making too much of out of this, I have to point out that though I have seen New Yorkstyle this and New York-style that from coast to coast, conversely I have never seen a place on Long Island advertising Memphis-style grits or Colorado-style bull fries or Kansas City-style chicken gizzards.

This is because, while fiercely protective of what we consider to be “that food of ours,” and how it is represented about the country, Long Islanders are not so presumptuous as to usurp another regional favorite as our own.

Let Buffalo have its wings.

Let Chicago have its deep dish.

Let Maine have its lobster roll and Maryland its blue-claw crab.

But leave our pizza and bagels alone.

And if you’re ever driving through Western Oklahoma and have a craving for Chinese Food, stay away from Bubba And Pedro’s Peking Palace.

Douglas Delaney is an author, playwright, documentarian and Levittown native who currently calls Kansas home.

A

Douglas Delaney

Be Our Guest!

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

The Argyle Theatre, Long Island’s largest year-round professional theatrical venue, presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, directed by Evan Pappas, choreographed and co-directed by Debbie Roshe, with musical direction by Jonathan Brenner. It performs through Jan. 1; the opening night was celebrated on Nov. 12.

Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, the stage version includes all of the wonderful songs written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Menken and Tim Rice. The original Broadway production ran for more than 13 years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end, and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

“This is a year of celebration at the Argyle; we have chosen four amazing shows that our audiences will love,” Argyle Theatre’s Artistic Director Evan Pappas said. “And what better way to kick off the new season with the magic of Disney’s

Beauty and the Beast.”

Tickets for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast are priced from $45 to $79 and may be purchased online at www.argyletheatre.com or by calling 631-230-3500.

For group rates and school trips, contact Marty Rubin, director of sales, by email at Marty@ArgyleTheatre.com.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast will play Wednesday through Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Saturday afternoons at 2:30 p.m., and Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m., with select Tuesday evenings and weekday matinees throughout December.

Visit www.argyletheatre.com for tickets and more details.

Hana Culbreath and Leland Burnett

Russ Rowland

Thank you to a truly extraordinary team and the extraordinary residents we serve.

YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. EVERY DAY.

CHEERS TO A HAPPY HOLIDAY!

TO YOU. TO US. TO ALL!

For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit:

THEBRISTAL.COM

Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Lead Hazards In Toys

Many children get toys and toy jewelry as gifts during the holiday season. Some toys, especially some imported toys, antique toys, and toy jewelry may contain lead. Although lead is invisible to the naked eye and has no smell, exposure to lead can seriously harm a child’s health. Young children tend to put their hands, toys, or other objects—which may be made of lead or contaminated with lead or lead dust—into their mouths. If you have a small child in your household, make sure the child does not have access to toys, jewelry, or other items that may contain lead.

Lead may be found in the paint, metal, and plastic parts of some toys and toy jewelry, particularly those made in other countries, and also antique toys and collectibles.

In 2008, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) was signed into law, requiring toys and infant products to be tested to mandatory standards before being sold.

The use of lead in plastics has not been banned. Lead softens plastic, making a toy more flexible to return to its original shape. Lead may also be used in plastic toys to stabilize molecules from heat.

Lead dust can form on toys when some plastics are exposed to sunlight, air, and detergents that break down the chemical bond between the lead and plastics.

Lead also may be combined with other metals, such as tin, to create alloys that are used to make toys.

To reduce children’s risk for lead exposure, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) tests and issues recalls of current products that may potentially expose children to lead. Check the CPSC website (www.cpsc.gov/recalls) to be sure your child’s toys are safe. You can find photos and descriptions of currently recalled toys on that website.

Protect children from exposure to lead in metal and plastic toys, especially imported toys, antique toys, and toy jewelry. How can I test a toy for lead?

Only a certified laboratory can accurately determine how much lead is in a toy. Although do-it-yourself kits indicating the presence of lead are available, they do not show how much lead is present and their reliability at detecting low levels of lead has not been determined.

What should I do if I am concerned about my child’s exposure to lead in a toy?

If you think your child has been exposed to a toy containing lead, or if your child has a recalled toy, take away the toy immediately and contact your child’s healthcare provider. Most children who are exposed to lead have no symptoms. A blood lead test is the best way to find out if your child has been exposed to lead. Your child’s healthcare provider can help you decide whether a blood lead test is needed and can recommend appropriate follow-up actions if your child has been exposed. As levels of

Toy jewelry often contains a lot of lead.

lead in the blood increase, adverse effects from lead may also increase.

Lead in Toy Jewelry

What are the effects of wearing toy jewelry?

Just wearing toy jewelry that contains lead will not cause your child to have a high level of lead in their blood. However, young children often place their toys, fingers,

Lead exposure is preventable.

and other objects in their mouths as a part of their normal development. Chewing, sucking on or swallowing toy jewelry that contains lead will expose your child to lead.

Make sure children in your home do not have access to jewelry or other items that may contain lead. Additionally, regularly washing children’s toys and hands can prevent them from swallowing or breathing in lead or lead dust.

Regular handwashing can reduce lead poisoning.

If you think your child put jewelry containing lead in his or her mouth, take the jewelry away from your child and contact your child’s healthcare provider. Your child’s healthcare provider can help you decide whether a blood lead test is needed and can recommend appropriate follow-up actions if your child has been exposed. Many private insurance policies cover the cost of testing for blood lead, and blood lead testing for children enrolled in Medicaid is covered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). For additional information on local resources, contact the childhood lead poisoning prevention program in your area.

No safe blood lead level in children has been identified. Even low levels of lead in blood have been shown to affect a child’s intelligence, ability to pay attention, and academic achievement.

The good news is that childhood lead exposure is preventable.

—National Center for Environmental Health

What should I do if I think my child put lead jewelry in his or her mouth?

Five Healthy Eating Tips For The Holidays

Your recipe for staying on track no matter what’s cooking

‘Tis the season for family, festivity, and food—lots of food. Temptations are everywhere, and parties and travel disrupt daily routines. What’s more, it all goes on for weeks. How do you stick to your diabetes meal plan when everyone around you seems to be splurging? Here are five tips that can help:

1. Holiday-Proof Your Plan

You may not be able to control what food you’re served, and you’re going to see other people eating tempting treats. Meet the challenges armed with a plan:

• Eat close to your usual times to keep your blood sugar steady. If your meal is served later than normal, eat a small snack at your usual mealtime and eat a little less when dinner is served.

• Invited to a party? Offer to bring a healthy dish along.

• If you have a sweet treat, cut back on other carbs (like potatoes and bread) during the meal.

• Don’t skip meals to save up for a feast. It will be harder to manage your blood sugar, and you’ll be really hungry and more likely to overeat.

• If you slip up, get right back to healthy eating with your next meal.

2. Outsmart the Buffet

Savor a serving of the foods you really love.

When you face a spread of delicious holiday food, make healthy choices easier:

• Have a small plate of the foods you like best and then move away from the buffet table.

• Start with vegetables to take the edge off your appetite.

• Eat slowly. It takes at least 20 minutes for your brain to realize you’re full.

• Avoid or limit alcohol. If you do have an alcoholic drink, have it with food. Alcohol

can lower blood sugar and interact with diabetes medicines.

• Also plan to stay on top of your blood sugar. Check it more often during the holidays, and if you take medicine, ask your doctor if the amount needs to be adjusted.

3. Fit in Favorites

No food is on the naughty list. Choose the dishes you really love and can’t get any other time of year, like Aunt Edna’s pumpkin

pie. Slow down and savor a small serving, and make sure to count it in your meal plan.

4. Keep Moving

You’ve got a lot on your plate this time of year, and physical activity can get crowded out. But being active is your secret holiday weapon; it can help make up for eating more than usual and reduce stress during this most stressful time of year. Get moving with friends and family, such as taking a walk after a holiday meal.

5. Get Your Zzzs

Going out more and staying out later often means cutting back on sleep. Sleep loss can make it harder to manage your blood sugar, and when you’re sleep deprived you’ll tend to eat more and prefer high-fat, high-sugar food. Aim for seven to eight hours per night to guard against mindless eating.

Most of all, remember what the season is about—celebrating and connecting with the people you care about. When you focus more on the fun, it’s easier to focus less on the food.

—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

If you plan for it, no food needs to be on the naughty list.

Dara Jones Joins HSS Long Island

A pediatric physiatrist, she sees a strong need for services here

Dara Jones, MD, of Port Washington has joined HSS Long Island, the Uniondale location of Hospital for Special Surgery. Jones is a pediatric physiatrist—a medical doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation in children and teenagers. Her practice is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and management of physical conditions and impairments present at birth or that develop during childhood. In addition to Long Island, she will continue to practice at the main hospital on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

With patients generally ranging in age from infants to 18-year-olds, Jones seeks to improve quality of life for those with cerebral palsy; developmental disorders; musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions; gait abnormalities; muscular dystrophy; traumatic brain injuries; spinal cord injuries; spina bifida; and acute injuries affecting the muscles, bones and joints.

With only a handful of pediatric physiatrists on Long Island, she sees a strong need for services here. “Many of my Long Island patients have been making the trip into Manhattan, often for treatments

that require multiple appointments,” Jones said. “I am delighted that I can now provide services on Long Island, which will make it so much more convenient for them. Plus, the Uniondale location is a beautiful, modern facility that’s easy to access with ample parking.”

Jones knew she found her calling early on−the first time she saw a child’s face light up during a consultation. She was explaining to the seven-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, that she could do anything she wants to do, even if it looks a little different from the way others do it.

“It’s always about what patients can do; it’s never about what they can’t do,” she said. “I work with a team of experts at HSS to optimize treatment and provide care to meet the needs of each family and achieve the goals and reach the full potential of each patient.” The team often includes pediatric orthopedic surgeons; physical, occupational and speech therapists; social workers; and experts who make adaptive equipment and assistive devices.

Board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Jones received her medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New

Orleans. She completed her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City and a fellowship in Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine at Montefiore Medical Center/ Albert Einstein School of Medicine.

She joins 36 specialists in orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, adult physiatry, rheumatology and pain management at HSS Long Island, located in The Omni professional building off Hempstead Turnpike in Uniondale.

“The HSS system and standards are as strong on Long Island as they are in New York City,” Jones said. “And the recent expansion, additional imaging services and new rehab facility at the Nassau County location are impressive.”

Jones, who moved to Port Washington this year with her husband and two young sons, says she couldn’t be happier in her new home.

“We love the water; we love the beach. We go boating, we fish,” she said. “We are really happy here. It’s exactly what we wanted, a great place for our sons to grow up in.”

—HSS Long Island

Dr. Dara Jones

Double Up On The Guac?

Those avocados are good for your heart health

Adding avocados to a healthy diet could reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, including lowering your cholesterol, according to research published by the American Heart Association (AHA). That’s especially good news because the consumption of avocados in the U.S. has nearly tripled in the past two decades, up to nearly 2.6 billion pounds a year.

Avocados contain high amounts

of fiber, potassium, magnesium, folate, vitamin C and vitamin K.

The fruit is a known source of healthy, unsaturated fats and a great replacement for certain fat-containing foods like butter, cheese or processed meats.

lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 21 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease, compared to those who never or rarely ate avocados.

A study published in the Journal of American Heart Association found that eating one avocado a day as part of a moderate-fat diet resulted in lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.

A study recently published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that:

• People who ate at least one avocado each week had a 16 percent

• Replacing half a serving daily of margarine, butter, egg, yogurt, cheese or processed meats such as bacon with the same amount of avocado was associated with a 16 to 22 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease events.

The research on avocados aligns with the American Heart Association’s guidance to follow the Mediterranean diet – a dietary pattern focused on fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, fish and other healthy foods and plant-based fats such as

olive, canola, sesame and other non-tropical oils.

The AHA website (www.heart.org) has a number of hearthealthy recipes using avocados.

Cirrhosis-Related Readmissions Are Common

People with cirrhosis require frequent hospitalizations and often are readmitted soon after discharge, many times within 30 days. This is an obvious cause of concern for patients and their families who often question why this is happening.

This topic is a subject of much thought among all parties involved. The reasons why this phenomenon occurs are complicated and multi-factorial. Are the patients taking their medications correctly after leaving the hospital? Are the health care providers

providing timely outpatient follow up to these patients? Are insurance companies paying for needed outpatient medications after discharge?

A study recently released from the University of Indiana addresses this issue. Their findings were striking. Almost 40 percent of all patients with cirrhosis who were discharged from the hospital were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. Only 12 percent of these were preventable readmissions. The most common indications

for readmission were hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding and acute kidney injury.

Focus on the reasons behind these preventable readmissions such as the patient is discharged before being ready to go home, the lack of appropriate outpatient follow up being arranged prior to discharge and the inability of the patient to get the medications which were prescribed upon discharge in the outpatient setting.

Patients with cirrhosis routinely require hospitalization

and this impacts their overall quality of life. While most readmissions are secondary to disease progression and not preventable, there remains a subset which are preventable.

It behooves the medical profession to do all that it can to keep these patients from being unnecessarily admitted to the hospital by implementing policies that enable patients to obtain the care they need.

Trusted & Reliable Senior Living Advisor for Assisted Living & Memory Care Communities

Services are paid for by participating communities, therefore my service is offered at no charge HOW CAN I H ELP ELDER CARE Call Me to Navigate the Process Wishing You & Your Family a Very Happy Holiday Season!

Bean, Avocado and Pineapple Salad (AHA) HOW CAN I HELP ELDER CARE • Guidance in choosing the right Community • Evaluating the level of care needed • Work with communities that match your budget • Scheduling tours and ensuring a smooth admission process • Discuss long term care insurance options • Discuss how VA benefits can assist with cost • Assistance with required admission paperwork 516.779.9487 • www.howcanihelpeldercare.com

Angelina Stanco-Stone

—David Bernstein, MD, MACG, FAASLD, AGAF, FACP

THE SPECIALIST David Bernstein, MD

HOMES

Recently Sold

This home at 26 Noel Ln. in the Ponds Edge section of Muttontown sold on Nov. 8 for $1,587,500. It is a beautiful location with a pond view, located within the Syosset school district. This spacious Colonial with plenty of light opens with a two-story entryway. The formal living room, with gleaming hardwood floors, flows into the family room which opens to a center-island, eat-in-kitchen. This home has fantastic flow for entertaining. The oversized master bedroom suite has two walk-in closets and a large dressing area. There are three additional bedrooms, all with closet systems and a full bathroom to clomplete the second floor. The fifth bedroom doubles as the home office and has a private full bathroom on the first floor. This home has a full, finished basement. The property is a half of an acre and has a pool and hot tub. There is also a large contained area with a playground. The entrance boasts a circular drive and a three-car garage.

HOME & DESIGN

Ready Outdoor Power Equipment For Winter Storage, Prep Your Snow Thrower

After your lawn gets its last seasonal cut, it is time to put away summer outdoor power equipment, like lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and trimmers.

Here are a few tips to ensure proper equipment storage, maintenance and safe handling:

Review manuals

Know how to handle equipment safely including how to turn off equipment quickly and safely. Lost manuals can be found online. Save a copy on your computer, so it can be consulted when needed.

Service all equipment

Before storing spring and summer equipment, clean and service it or take it to a small engine repair shop. Drain and change engine oil and safely dispose of old oil. Service the air filter, and do other maintenance as directed by the owner’s manual.

Handle fuel properly

Unused fuel left in gas tanks over the winter can go stale and even damage equipment. Before storing equipment, add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank, then run the equipment to distribute it.

Charge batteries

Remove and fully charge batteries before storing. Don’t store batteries on metal shelves or allow them to touch metal objects. Store them on a plastic or wood shelf in a climate-controlled structure.

Shelter equipment

Store spring and summer equipment in a clean and dry place such as a garage, barn or shed. Winter equipment should be kept away from the elements, but be easily available for use.

This home “Kirby Hill” at 11 Mansion Hill Dr. in Muttowntown sold on Nov. 4 for $2,940,000. It is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. Kirby Hill, the original Joseph Stevens estate, was designed by Warren & Westmore circa 1902. It is set on seven rolling acres in the village of Muttontown, the jewel of Stone Hill. The home’s Baronial rooms all have original details. The home has been lovely restored to its original glory. It has 10 bedrooms and eight bathrooms. It is located in a gated community with 24-hour security, a club house, lawn care and many other amenities.

Prepare, prepare, prepare

Make space in the garage or basement before the weather changes, so there is room to store larger yard items. Clean up your yard. Clear the paths used regularly in your yard.

—Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)

Homes shown here represent closed sales, sold by a variety of agencies and are selected for their interest to readers by the Anton Media Group editor. Except where noted, data and photos are provided courtesy of Multiple Listing Service of Long Island, Inc. and Zillow.

If shoes make the man, then meet Darren Smith, the man who makes the shoes. Far from being your average cobbler, Smith is the founder and creative director of Barollo Shoes, a luxury footwear brand whose bespoke approach has garnered a wealth of celebrity clients, athletes and VIPs including Caitlyn Jenner, Lupita Nyong’o, Jessica Biel, Sarah Paulson and Angelina Jolie since its 2018 launch. Not bad for a kid from Philadelphia whose prior life found him installing multi-million dollar IMAX systems around the country before he took the plunge into designing shoes back in 2014 and heading off to Venice, Italy for an intensive apprenticeship. Smith’s epiphany that he wanted to dive into the deep end of shoe design came while volunteering at the Devon Horse Show back in 2014. It was during the 10-day event where Smith came across La Mondial, a century-old manufacturer of custom riding boots based in South America.

“I met owner [Roberto Rivas II] at the show during one of my breaks,” Smith recalled. “I kept going back to watch the craftsmanship and videos they had and was blown away. On my third visit, there was a literal flash of light and a voice in my head that said I had to make shoes. It was as clear as this conversation. I have never had more direction and clarity in my life.”

The aspiring cobbler soon learned that Italy was where he would learn more about this new career in high end design and three months after the show, he bought a two-week round-trip ticket to attend a show and make connections. The return passage lapsed and Smith found himself

apprenticing

Barollo Shoes Sits At The Crossroads Of Luxury, Comfort And Style

BY DAVE GIL DE RUBIO dgilderubio@antonmediagroup.com

was a philosophy that continues to inform Barollo Shoes to this day.

“I couldn’t have landed in a better place,” Smith said. “It opened my eyes to how the world is and I really fell in love with that aspect of Italy— the craftsmanship. These people I was working with weren’t rich but if you went to see them, they had the best appliances. They would have a prosciutto cutter that was thousands of dollars. They were committed to having the best of everything and everything oozed quality.”

in the early 1900’s or Ferragamo in the ‘50s or ‘60s,” Smith said.

“I hand-select all the materials.

I’m not just the designer—I make everything. I don’t do every part of every operation but I’m literally touching every shoe multiple times and doing multiple processes.”

week,

learning the craft. Just as important was Smith being immersed in Italian culture that valued high standards over mediocrity in all aspects be it food, architecture or time spent enjoying everyday life. It

Smith’s dedication to maintaining these lofty benchmarks found him setting up shop on the banks of the Riviera del Brenta, near Venice, in the heart of the luxury shoe capital of the world. It’s an area that where you’ll find Louis Vuitton’s Italian headquarters and where other luxury brands are manufactured including Jimmy Choos, Hermes and Chanel. It is here where Smith hand-picks Napa leather for lining in his women’s shoes that goes for $40 a square meter and is generally used for finished goods including handbags, gloves and leather jackets. And that uncompromising demand for quality even extends to the packaging (“People don’t think the box matters but when you buy a pair of shoes, the first thing the sales person hands you is the box. It’s like a car—the outside has to be as beautiful as the inside) which is produced by a company that is also a supplier for Tiffany’s, Valentino and Gucci. As for the actual footwear, Smith is proud to be very hands-on with each design handcrafted to order. This time-consuming process requires more than 350 individual steps to complete a finished pair of shoes and ranges from hand dying the skins to cutting and stitching each piece of leather.

“With me, you’re dealing with the designer like you did with Gucci

Not surprisingly, Smith’s services don’t come cheap. His lines includes women’s Dream Stilettos and Addison loafers and men’s boots, Daytona loafers and tuxedo shoes. He also makes belts and handbags. Barollos’ custom-made shoe line starts at $5,000. Given how time consuming this part of the creative process is, the current challenge is for Smith to scale up. He hopes to go from custom-made to ready-to-wear with the ideal goal of selling 10,000 to 20,000 pairs of shoes a year with sneakers at $750 and shoes starting at $950 and going up from there. Currently, he’s moving only hundreds of custom-made shoes. Because of Barollo being one of the most exclusive brands coming out of Italy, there is a wait for the products because of demand. Scalability is the challenge for 2023. Smith’s hope is that he can land his shoes in exclusive boutiques in cities like Miami, Palm Beach, Dallas and New York City. His one foray onto Long Island was in the Hamptons, where his shoe line was being carried by Fred Segal before that location closed. What sustains him is the feedback and loyalty of his customers thanks to the high quality and care that goes into each pair Smith produces.

“You asked what makes Barollo different—we are special,” he said. “When I’m in L.A. or New York and I’m wearing certain shoes, I get stopped on the streets all the time. If you’re wearing a Louboutin, I don’t know that anyone is stopping you.”

Visit www.barolloitaly.com to learn more about Barollo Shoes.

in Venice under Maestro Pietro, a local university professor with 40 years of experience making shoes. Mentor and mentee proceeded to spend 15-hour days, seven days a

Marisa Tomei wearing Barollos at the 2019 Tony Awards (Photos courtesy of Barollo archives)

Pink Satin Dream Stilettos

From left: Barollo founder Darren Smith with customer Chris Harrison

HappyHolidays

© 2022 The First National Bank of Long Island. All rights reserved.

FIND

HOROSCOPES

By Holiday Mathis

By Holiday Mathis

Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You will tell the world how to treat you, sometimes with your words, though more often with your spine. People will understand what to expect from you as they watch you either stand straight, bend backward or mold yourself to the curvature of the situation. Do what works for you. Everyone’s backbone is di erent.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You don’t like to contribute to the conversation unless the opportunity organically arises. However, it will bene t you and ultimately everyone if you raise your pro le and position within a group. e power move is to contribute, even if you have to invent the reason. Make it known that you’re an ally, or a contender, as the case may be.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Your leisure time is precious, and when you really think about it, you have many options, so there’s no reason to say “yes” out of obligation or “no” out of fear. Novel choices o er the most bene t. If there’s any chance at all of doing something you’ve never done before, you’ll win just by showing up.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). e di erence between loving and being in love has to do with the e ort required in enactment. ose who are in love e ortlessly tend to their beloved, and indeed are so driven to do so that it would be much harder not to focus their attention thusly. is is the passion you have at your disposal this week.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). A change seems necessary, but the time frame is unclear. Should it be done in an instant, or with a gentle, gradual shift? Until you feel surer, don’t begin. Strategize rst. You can always change your strategy when you know more, but if you go in without making a plan, you’ll get stuck with the one that is made for you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). It’s not hard for you to t in with new groups when you actually want to, and this week, you’ll accommodate and impress those who share your values. But the challenge comes when you interact with those who aren’t so easily understood. Your willingness to try is a testament to your excellent character.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You will strike a deal. Whether you’re coming to an agreement about lunch or a life-changing decision, the joy or arduousness of the decision-making process will set a tone for what follows. Facts matter, but satisfaction is a feeling, not a fact. You’ll heed information that comes to you in the form of emotion.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You will nd yourself in a position where you know a lot more than you might want to say. Consider what’s being asked of you, what might bene t the situation and all that could be learned in the end. ere will be other things to weigh, too, like the emotions and rules of the situation. You’ll be a masterful diplomat.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). A tourist sees the ultra-low tide as an interesting phenomenon, while the islander sees it as a warning. You have special knowledge, too, and will be tuned in to signs about what’s around the corner. is week, there are potentials to realize, bene ts to scoop up, events to avoid and “tourists” to assist.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ll be rearranging your environment and schedule to get the alone time you need, especially for your project. In solitude, you’ll have laser focus and the productivity of a fast-moving robot. But if there’s even one person, animal or device to distract you, it’s a di erent story with a far less optimal outcome.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You are enmeshed in community, and it shows in your activities and conversations. is week, it will seem like you can’t go anywhere without running into someone you know, and you’ll love the unexpected route some of these meetups take. Your destiny will be favorably enhanced by tips, hints and invitations.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You’d like to trust a person or process, but you can’t be expected to have faith in a thing until you know it closely. You’ll work diligently to do that this week. “’Well now that we have seen each other,’ said the unicorn, ‘if you’ll believe in me, I’ll believe in you.’” -- Lewis Carroll, “ rough the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found ere”

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

You’ll be praised often and sometimes publicly this year! Some of the most validating attention you get is the kind you can put in your wallet. An overlap of interests will lead to an exciting love life. But when it’s time to get to work, you compartmentalize well and enjoy a clear focus that few can achieve. Approach your work with the idea that you will continue to deliver the same thing inde nitely. e right attitude for a job is the one you can maintain over a long term. If you’re opposed to a task, don’t do it even once.

Out of shape

WORD FIND

Out of shape

Solution:

Solution: Visual form of maths Date: 12/14/22 Creators Syndicate 737 3rd Street Hermosa Beach,

not be stopped if the diamonds were divided 3-2, led a low club to dummy’s queen. East won with the ace and shifted to the jack of hearts. Declarer ducked the jack and also the king, Besse signaling encouragement with the four followed by the deuce. South then took the next heart lead with the ace.

Aware that West had the missing queen of hearts, South decided to play a low diamond and duck it into East’s hand in order to guard against a possible 4-1 diamond division.

Accordingly, South led the deuce of diamonds toward dummy. When Besse played the four, declarer played dummy’s three in order to force East to win the trick. But East couldn’t oblige, and Besse’s four unexpectedly won the trick! He then cashed the queen of hearts to put the contract down one.

and these aberrations often lead to unusual results that become the basis for amusing — and sometimes hairraising — stories.

Consider today’s deal from a match between Peru and Switzerland. The Peruvian South got to three notrump, and Swiss star Jean Besse led the five of spades.

Declarer won with the ace and, realizing that the contract could

Of course, Besse should have played the nine of diamonds — which would have assured defeat of the contract — instead of the four, and declarer should have played dummy’s seven — which would have given him his ninth trick — instead of the three, but the fact is that neither of them did what he should have done.

However, par — down one at three notrump — was achieved, though in a most peculiar manner. Homer nodded not once but twice, and the nods canceled each other out.

Weekly Sudoku Puzzle

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Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, age, marital status, sexual orientation or disability in connection with the rental, sale or financing of real estate. Nassau also prohibits source of income discrimination. Anton Community Newspapers does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination, call Long Island Housing Services’ Discrimination Complaint Line at 800660-6920. (Long Island Housing Services is the Fair Housing Agency of Nassau and Suffolk Counties.)

Governor Hochul Announces Historic Arts Funding To Record Number Of Artists And Organizations

Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced nearly $45 million in grant awards through the New York State Council on the Arts. Through a record level of state funding for the arts, these grants will support over 1,200 arts organizations and 426 artists as they return to pre-pandemic levels of capacity and creation. Organizations in the area that received awards include The Long Island Children’s Museum and the Creative China Center in Garden City, the Eglevsky Ballet in Bethpage, Friends of Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay, the Great Neck Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, Landmark on Main Street and Long Island Traditions (both in Port Washington), the Tilles Center in Brookville and the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn.

“For hundreds of years, artists from around the world have called New York their home because of our culture, diversity, and creativity,” Governor Hochul said. “Their innovations fuel our economy, our tourism industry and the health and well-being of our communities, and this year’s historic commitment will spur our continuing recovery from the pandemic and set the course for a stronger future.”

The Support for Organizations grants will provide $38,452,500 to 1,214 arts groups

including museums, visual arts programs, arts education organizations, and music, dance, and theater companies. The Support for Artists grants will provide $4,260,000 to 426 artists. The Special Opportunities grants will provide $1,737,450 to support folk art apprentices for individual artists, rehearsal and studio spaces for the performing arts and performing arts residencies. Additional funding was provided to support State

Community Regrant partners.

In 2021, NYSCA overhauled its funding strategies to allow greater access to art funding across the state and recommitted its support to artists. As a result, NYSCA increased its funding of artists by 400 percent and awarded grants to 83 percent of first-time applicants.

In October, Governor Hochul announced $32 million in grants to 1,032 organizations,

including state community regrant partners, arts partnerships, and arts organizations throughout the state. NYSCA’s record grantmaking budget comprises $140 million for FY 2023, plus an additional $100 million in multi-year capital funding to facilitate large-scale capital projects that prioritize community development and placemaking. NYSCA is still accepting applications for the Capital Projects Fund through Jan. 12, 2023. The FY 2023 budget also includes a $100 million expansion of the New York City Musical Theater Tax Credit, administered by Empire State Development.

New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Mara Manus said, “We are immensely grateful to Governor Hochul and our State Legislature for their historic investment in the arts. This unprecedented level of funding and NYSCA’s continued efforts to increase access to the arts have yielded a record number of grantees. These 1,200 statewide grants will bring crucial support to creative workers and arts organizations of all sizes. We know that, through this critical grantmaking, New Yorkers and our visitors will directly experience the measurable benefits of this investment in the arts sector for decades to come.”

—Submitted by the Office of the Governor

SYOSSET

LEGAL NOTICE

North Hempstead And Chabad Of Manhasset Host Chanukah Festival And Menorah Lighting

It’s usually the smell of sizzling latkes that marks the start of Chanukah. In Manhasset, the start of Chanukah also includes the annual Chanukah party on the Mary Jane Davies Green on Plandome Road December 18 At 3 p.m.

Notice of formation of GLOBAL SCROLL LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/24/2022. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 70 WOODCREST DRIVE, SYOSSET, NY, 11791, USA. Purpose: any lawful act.

Sponsored by the Chabad of Manhasset, The Town of North Hempstead, and North Shore University Hospital, the celebration features the Guinness World Record holder “World’s Fastest Ice Carver” who will carve an ice menorah.

12-21-14-7; 11-30-23-162022-6T-#235833-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

A magician will delight all, while children

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST Eva Marie Ponce as Executrix and Beneficiary under the Last Will and Testament of Hipolito C. Ponce; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 30, 2022 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court

Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 18, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 400 South Marginal Road, Jericho, NY 11753. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Jericho, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section: 11 Block: 430 Lot: 28. Approximate amount of judgment $359,788.75 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 008859/2016. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

LEGAL NOTICE

will enjoy the face painting and catching the “gelt” dropped by the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department. And don’t forget to have your picture taken with Mr. Dreidel.

meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Jericho Fire District will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at Fire District Headquarters commencing at 7:30 PM .

By Order of the Jericho Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners Nancy Orlando, District Secretary, December 9, 2022 12-14-2022-1T-#236338SYO/JER

Traditional Chanukah foods will be on hand such as latkes, jelly donuts and chocolate gelt as well as hot coffee. Menorah To-Go kits, will also be available for you to take home.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LSY BK LLC Arts. Of Org. filed with Secy. Of State of N.Y.(SSNY) on 11/28/22. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 107 Saddle Ridge Lane, Woodbury NY 11797 which is also the principal business location. Purpose: any lawful activity.

1-18-11-4-2023; 12-28-2114-2022-6T-#236309SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

We are honored to announce that a performance by the Manhasset High School Band led by Mr. Greg Sisco, will fill the park with the sounds of Chanukah.

LEGAL NOTICE

“This event has become a wonderful annual tradition to celebrate together as one community,” said Rabbi Mendel Paltiel of the Chabad of Manhasset. “It’s a special time for the community and a special time of the year to come together. On Chanukah we have the mitzvah (good deed) to shine light. The entire world was created for this purpose. As it says in the Torah, in the beginning on the very first day, And G-d created light, to make the world a better and brighter place. That’s the celebration of the menorah.”

How would you like to cover school sports?

Daniel Baker, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that: a special meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Jericho Fire District will be held on Tuesday December 27, 2022 at Fire District Headquarters commencing at 7:00 PM.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the regular Jericho Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners meetings for the year 2023 will be held on the second Thursday and the following Tuesday of each month at Fire Headquarters, 424 North Broadway, Jericho, N.Y., commencing at 7:30 PM.

The grand finale of this wonderful afternoon will be the lighting of the giant menorah at sunset.

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: November 18, 2022 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

1-4-2023; 12-28-21-14-20224T-#236199-SYO/JER

By Order of the Jericho Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners Nancy Orlando, District Secretary December 9, 2022 12-14-2022-1T-#236337SYO/JER

Anton Media Group is looking for sports nuts to help expand local school sports coverage. Writers can submit profiles about star players or cover an intense sports game. We ask writers to submit high-res photos of players/ games. This is an unpaid, volunteer position with the opportunity to be published in our award winning newspaper.

By Order of the Jericho Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners Nancy Orlando, District Secretary, December 9, 2022 12-14-202- 1T-#236339SYO/JER

Chanukah, which runs this year from Sunday, December 18 to Monday, December 26, celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, when it is said that one day’s worth of sacred oil lasted for eight days.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the reorganization

Please contact editorial@antonmediagroup.com if you are interested in this opportunity.

Mary Jane Davies Green is located on Plandome Road across from Town Hall at 220 Plandome Road, Manhasset. Parking will be available in the Town Hall parking lot and in a portion of the Manhasset Park

District’s lot behind Mary Jane Davies Park. This celebration will begin at 3 pm, Sunday December 18. Join us for another year of fun for all.

For more info, go to: chabadmanhasset. com or email: info@chabadmanhasset.com —With contributions from the Town of North Hempstead and Chabad Manhasset

(Credit: Long Island Children’s Museum)

Receiver Pravato Reminds Residents To File For Property Tax Exemptions Now

Oyster Bay Town Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato announced that residents may apply for New York State property tax exemptions from now through Jan. 2. Homeowners wishing to receive exemptions on their 2023-24 School taxes and 2024 General taxes must file with the Nassau County Department of Assessment or New York State prior to the Jan. 2 deadline.

“I want to make sure that every resident who is eligible, whether they’re a senior citizen, veteran, new homeowner, volunteer firefighter/EMT, person with a disability, or person renovating/improving their home, get the opportunity to take advantage of the available exemptions,” Pravato stated. “There are many exemptions available to qualified residents and homeowners, so I urge those interested to contact the Nassau County Department of Assessment for further assistance parsing through the matter.”

Exemptions, resulting in property tax savings, are available to qualified residents for the following categories:

• School Tax Relief Program (STAR)- Residents may receive only one of the following: STAR Credit- the STAR Program has been changed by New York State. New recipients, and current recipients whose annual income is between $250,000 and $500,000, will be issued a check directly from New York State instead of receiving a school property tax exemption. The amount of the benefit will be the same. You cannot receive both the credit and the exemption. Register with New York State by telephone at 518-457-2036 or online at www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/ star/default.htm.

• Basic STAR Property Tax Exemptionthis program provides an exemption from school property taxes for owner-occupied, primary residences with an annual household income of less than $250,000. Current Basic Star Exemption recipients will keep their exemption as long as they continue to own their current home.

• Enhanced STAR Property Tax Exemption/Credit- this exemption is available to senior citizen homeowners who are 65 years of age or older during the year in which the exemption takes effect, and whose annual income does not exceed $93,200. Senior citizens whose annual income exceeds $93,200 will still be eligible for the Basic STAR Exemption/Credit. Current Enhanced Star Exemption recipients will keep their exemption as long as they continue to own their current home. Recipients must enroll in the Income Verification Program.

• Senior Citizen exemption provides a tax

savings for individuals over the age of 65, whose income is less than $58,399. To participate and receive this tax savings (between 5 percent and up to 50 percent reduction on certain county, town and school district property taxes) specific qualification criteria must be met.

• Veterans Exemptions are for those individuals who rendered service to our country. The eligibility to receive this exemption and amount to be exempted depends upon the time, duration and type of service, along with other criteria.

• Cold War Veterans Exemption is for veterans who served during the Cold War period. The law also provides an additional exemption to disabled veterans.

• Gold Star Parent Exemption is available for the parent of a child who died in the line of duty while serving in the United States Armed Forces during a period of war, as defined in NYS Real Property Tax Law.

• Persons With Disabilities and Limited Incomes Partial Property Tax Exemption is available to eligible applicants who have a physical or mental impair- ment, not due to use of alcohol or illegal drug use, that substantially limits that person’s ability to engage in one or more major life activities. The requirements to qualify are based on the person’s disability, ownership, residency and occupancy status, and income. Persons with incomes less

than $58,399 can qualify to receive an exemption from 5 percent to 50 percent of the assessed value.

• Home Improvement Tax Reductions Program for the Physically Disabled is granted to those persons who are physically disabled and meet certain criteria. It is equal to the amount of any increase in value of property attributable to improvements made for the purpose of facilitating and accommodating the use and accessibility of the property.

• Home Improvements Exemption is an eight-year decreasing exemption on alterations, reconstructions or improvements that increase the assessed value

• of a one or two family home. In the first year, 100 percent of the assessed value of the improvement is exempt. In the sec-

ond year, 87.5 percent, in the third year, 75 percent and so on. Certain eligibility requirements must be met to participate in this program.

• First-Time Home Buyers of Newly Constructed Homes may apply for and receive a partial real property tax exemption. The maximum exemption is offered over five years, starting with a 50 percent exemption the first year and phasing to 10 percent in the fifth and final year. Homebuyers are subject to certain price and income limits set by the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA).

• Volunteer Firefighter and Ambulance Worker Exemption is available to eligible firefighters and ambulance workers. Up to 10 percent reduction in the assessed value of their property can be obtained to volunteers who have served at least five years in a Town of Oyster Bay Fire Department in which they reside. Certain eligibility requirements must be met to participate in this program.

Pravato advises homeowners who are interested in obtaining an exemption, to contact the Nassau County Department of Assessment at 516-571-1500, where they can obtain additional information and applications. They may visit the County Assessor’s office at 240 Old Country Rd., Mineola, New York 11501. However, first time applicants, or residents with an income between $250,000 and $500,000, for the STAR Credit must contact New York State directly to register by telephone at 518-457-2036 or online at www.tax.ny.gov/ pit/property/star/default.htm.

Residents interested in obtaining a free brochure describing the STAR, Senior Citizen or Veterans exemption programs can obtain such at Town Hall North in Oyster Bay, Town Hall South in Massapequa, the Department of Public Works in Syosset, major park facilities, and by calling 516624-6380 or www.oysterbaytown.com.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Don’t forget to apply for property tax exemptions. (Photo courtesy alanharder.ca via Wikimedia Commons)

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Syosset High School AP Biology Teacher Carisa Steinberg Among Receipients Of Empire State Excellence In Teaching Award

The Syosset Central School District is pleased to announce that AP Biology Teacher, Women in STEM Club Advisor, and High School Mentor Program Coordinator Carisa Steinberg has been honored with the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award.

Governor Kathy Hochul’s Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes educational leaders (PreK-12) who exemplify the professional work of thousands of outstanding, progressive teachers and innovative educators striving to attain New

York standards and success for all of their students. After an extensive application period, 54 public school teachers were rewarded for their skillset and commitment to success for all of their students. The prize includes a $5,000 stipend to apply toward professional learning opportunities.

“I am honored to be recognized for my educational accomplishments by New York State,” said Steinberg. “As a science teacher, it is my greatest joy to work with the curious and dedicated students of Syosset High School both in and out of the classroom.”

Steinberg was awarded the Harvard Club Distinguished Educator Award in 2022, the Cornell University Outstanding Educator Award in both 2022 and 2018—and was Long Island Teacher of the Year in 2015.

—Submitted by the Syosset Central School District

Syosset High School AP Biology Teacher Carisa Steinberg. (Photo courtesy of the Syosset School District)

Syosset High School Secures Top Rank In Virtual Enterprises International’s National Elevator Pitch Competition

Virtual Enterprises International (VEI), an educational nonprofit that provides opportunities for students in grades 7 to 12 to start and run simulated businesses, announced today that students at Syosset High School received high honors in its National Elevator Pitch Competition for their simulated business, Thrive Healthy Living, a company they operate from their classroom. The students’ elevator pitch ranked among the top 10 percent of entries submitted for the competition nationwide.

Through the VE program, the students created Thrive Healthy Living, a virtual business offering fun, nutritional health supplements that improve mental and physical well-being. In November, the

students entered their business in VE’s National Elevator Pitch Competition, which challenges VE students to make a convincing, engaging elevator pitch to an angel investor in 60 seconds or less through a video submission.

VE is a year-long program in which students create a business and role-play corporate jobs as they work to keep their business profitable by developing business plans, participating in trade shows, and conducting business transactions with virtual companies run by other students across the country. Over 200,000 students have gone through the VE program since its inception in 1996.

About Virtual Enterprises International Virtual Enterprises International (VEI)

is an educational nonprofit that provides a solution for schools to offer all students meaningful skills-based career experiences. Through our hands-on, taskbased curricula, aligned to the VE Career Readiness Framework, students test drive potential careers and develop in-demand skills and competencies that post-secondary institutions and employers are seeking. By managing the day-to-day operations of a company, students not only develop business skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, they also identify career pathways that align with their interests, talents, and aspirations.

Since its inception in 1996, VEI has served over 200,000 high school students, including many from under-resourced

Another Role For Mr. Cummings

BY ZOYA KHAN AND ARCHANA HARIHARAN OF JERECHO editors@antonnews.com

After many academic achievements and experiences in education, Brian Cummings is ready to take on yet another role, this time as Jericho High School Assistant Principal.

Cummings has been in education for 30 years, spending 26 of them in the Jericho School District. He worked for 15 years as a high school physics and math teacher and 10 years as the Curriculum Associate of Science and Technology Education.

As an adolescent, Cummings had always enjoyed education. He said, “My strengths were math and science and if you combine those two ideas, teaching was always a possibility.”

Besides being successful academically, he excelled in his extracurriculars. Cummings was a drummer in his high school’s marching band, which went as far as participating in the Mets World Series ticker tape parade. He said, “It was one of the coolest things I have ever done.”

Initially, Cummings wanted to pursue

a career in engineering, studying at the Polytechnic Institute in New York for his undergraduate degree. After his junior year, Cummings then found himself trans-

ferring to SUNY Cortland and graduating with his bachelor’s degree in teaching.

Cummings attended SUNY Stony Brook for his first master’s degree and then LIU Post

communities. In 2015, VEI introduced the VE-JV Career Academy, a similar two-year program that enables 7th and 8th-grade students to develop technology and entrepreneurial skills by starting and managing business ventures. Roughly 90 percent of VE students interact with business professionals who mentor them on a regular basis and 87 percent identify a career path of interest due to their involvement in the VE program. We annually support 20,000+ students across the U.S. and are part of a global network spanning 40+ countries and over 7,000+ student-run businesses. Learn more about VE on our website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages.

—Submitted by Virtual Enterprises International

for his second master’s in administration.

Now as assistant principal, Cummings is dedicated to making the school a fun and safe environment for everyone. He said, “I want people to have the same great experience I had in high school.”

Cummings is appreciated by the students of Jericho High School, who find him to be supportive and kind. Freshman Romir S. said, “He is a very nice guy, a responsible vice principal.”

Cummings has a therapy dinosaur in his office and encourages students to come and sit down with it whenever they need to.

Co-principal David Cohen commends Cummings for working diligently within the district in many important roles. “To be able to lean on someone that really knows the culture so deeply is really beneficial,” he said.

Cumming’s favorite thing about his journey throughout Jericho High School has been the change. He said, “I feel like I’m still new at this, which is fun for me.”

Brian Cummings is Jericho High School’s next assistant principal. (Photos courtesy JerECHO)

Cummings is appreciated by the students of Jericho High School, who find him to be supportive and kind.