Great Neck Record 3/01/23 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

Youth basketball team joins playoffs (See page 8)

School News: South High earns second place at science bowl (See page 10)

Keeping Your Heart Healthy Heart

Health seminars successfully inform residents of all ages on heart disease prevention

JULIE PRISCO

jprisco@antonmediagroup.com

Great Neck and New Hyde Park residents were invited to ‘Keep Your Heart Healthy’ seminars in February. In honor of February being Heart Health Month, Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip (District 10) hosted seminars featuring certified cardiovascular specialist Dr. Robert Rahmani speaking about heart health.

Dr. Rahmani has a private practice in Great Neck and Forest Hills and is affiliated with three branches of the Northwell Health network. With Legislator Pilip hosting the seminars, Dr. Rahmani attended both seminars to discuss heart health and answer questions from the attendees.

Legislator Pilip decided to host two ‘Keep Your Heart Healthy’ seminars this year for the first time. The Great Neck seminar was hosted at the Great Neck House and the New Hyde Park seminar was hosted at the Clinton G. Martin Park Community Center. She was inspired to educate the public after hearing about her husband’s work as a cardiologist and remembering the tough time her father went through with his heart problems.

“My husband would come home and tell us about his day and share special cases with us. We were amazed at how many people come in with heart disease and heart attacks,” said Legislator Pilip. “We were even more amazed when we found out people in their forties were coming to see him.”

It’s a common misconception that heart disease and heart issues only affect older people. Legislator Pilip was shocked to hear how heart disease hurts everyone, not just high-risk people. A lot of other factors contribute.

“About 17 years ago, I asked my father to go get tests done to make sure his heart was okay. He had been a diabetic for a long time, had high blood pressure and high cholesterol,” said Legislator Pilip. “He said he felt fine, but I was stubborn and convinced him to get checked out. The doctors learned that almost everything was closed in his heart and he had to have open heart surgery.”

Thanks to advanced technology when it comes to heart health, Legislator Pilip’s dad is still alive almost 18 years later.

“When people feel they’re healthy and they’re young, they think there is nothing to worry about,” said Legislator Pilip. “But nobody is really protected from heart disease. Since we have medicine, technology and ways to prevent heart disease, I thought to initiate the seminars to give an education.”

According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among men and women. In 2020, 697,000 people in the United States died from heart disease, which is one in every five deaths.

Legislator Pilip wanted to help create awareness for heart disease and she found Dr. Rahmani to help. When it comes to keeping your heart healthy, Dr. Rahmani recommends lifestyle modifications.

“A good diet with balanced exercise is important. Keeping in line with your risk factors, including high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes,” said Dr. Rahmani. “And maintaining a healthy weight; BMI (Body Mass Index) of less than 25, usually 20 to 25.”

Coronary heart disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, killing 382,820 people in the U.S. in the year 2020. About two in 10 deaths from CAD happen in adults less than 65 years old, according to the CDC.

Both Legislator Pilip and Dr. Rahmani were surprised and happy that a wide age range of residents showed up to both the Great Neck and New Hyde Park seminars.

“It was a great turnout,” said Dr. Rahmani.

“And I think there was a great response as well. Afterward, my office received a lot of phone calls and emails with questions.”

Dr. Rahmani’s seminars were detailed and engaging. Legislator Pilip said, “he really knew how to speak with them and took his time explaining and giving answers. The seminars were a success.”

While heart disease and heart health is personal to Lgislator Pilip, the great attendance, and follow-up from residents after the seminars, made her realize how much the community needed this.

“We, as elected officials, need to think

outside of the box and do something a little extra,” said Legislator Pilip. “We need to make people aware, encourage them to go to doctors for checkups and let the doctor make the judgments.”

The seminar was free for District 10 residents to attend. With the success of both seminars, Legislator Pilip is excited to host the ‘Keep Your Heart Healthy’ seminars next year.

Although Heart Health Month is over, everyone is encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reach out to their doctors for tips and check-ups.

Dr. Robert Rahmani and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip Legislator Pilip greeting a resident at the seminar

Dr. Rahmani and Legislator Pilip with seminar attendees (Photos provided by the office of Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip)

‘Souls For Shoes’ The Rotary Club of Great Neck

Throughout the month of March, the Rotary Club of Great Neck will be accepting pairs of shoes for its annual shoe drive, ‘Souls for Shoes’. The Rotary Club of Great Neck is collecting shoes and sneakers in any condition and size for adults and children till March 29.

“We have been collecting shoes for this project together with the Northport Rotary Club for a number of years,” said Dr. Lidia M Epel, Rotary Club of Great Neck, District Chair Fundraising Subcommittee.

The Rotary Club asks that the pair of shoes are tied together to keep all pairs organized and prevent a single shoe from being lost in the shuffle.

“The shoes are delivered to a site that teaches individuals how to repair them and then sent to different areas of the world in need of them,” said Epel. “Last year they were sent to the Philippines.”

is hosting its annual shoe drive

The Rotary Club of Great Neck works to support the local communities and other less fortunate communities across the globe.

“The Rotary Club of Great Neck is dedicated to helping our communities in many ways, whether by delivering 1200 turkeys with all the trimmings for Thanksgiving as well as providing toiletries, diapers and more items to St. Aloyisius’s pantry,” said Epel.

For donation details, contact the Rotary Club of Great Neck. Visit rotaryclubgreatneck.org for contact information.

—Information provided by the Rotary Club of Great Neck with additional reporting by Julie Prisco

Honoring Michael Ginor

Supporting the Michael Ginor Scholarship fund

Distinguished chef Michael Ginor, co-owner and co-founder of Lola Restaurant in Great Neck, passed away in November of 2022. To honor Ginor’s legacy and dedication to the culinary arts, the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is hosting a tribute dinner and raising funds for a scholarship fund in Ginor’s name.

Ginor was an award-winning chef, writer and restauranteur. He co-founded the restaurant Lola, which has received rave reviews from both Newsday and the New York Times Ginor also co-founded Hudson Valley Foie Gras, the premier source to purchase foie gras and duck products online in the United States.

Ginor has been a generous supporter and participator of the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival since its beginning in 2011.

According to the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival website, “over the years, Ginor became one of Hawaii’s greatest ambassadors embracing the festival’s mission to spotlight Hawaii’s unique food culture and sharing the aloha spirit with everyone he met along his journey. He often shared his passion for travel with fellow chefs, inviting them to join his culinary adventures-both in Israel and beyond-and, connecting them to different cultures through food.”

To honor Ginor and help continue his legacy, the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival has introduced the Michael Ginor Scholarship Fund. The scholarship will provide annual opportunities for Hawaii’s culinary students to stage at Hudson Valley Farm or Restaurant Lola in Great Neck.

The tribute dinner will take place on April 7 in Halekulani. The dinner courses will feature organic foie gras or Moulard duck from Hudson Valley Foie Gras, Michael’s award-winning farm in Ferndale, NY. All proceeds from the dinner will be donated to an endowment for the Michael Ginor Scholarship Fund.

For those interested in donating to the Scholarship fund, visit restaurant Lola or Lenny Messina’s social media pages. Visit hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com for more information.

—Information from Hawaii Food and Wine Festival with additional reporting by Julie Prisco

Town Officials Meet With Ismaili Community Members

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Councilmember Veronica Lurvey were proud to welcome members of the Ismaili Council to Town Hall on Feb. 15. Supervisor DeSena and Council Member Lurvey spoke with the group about their dedication to the community and helping others.

The Ismaili community, including those from I-CERV (Ismaili Community Engaged in Responsible Volunteering) in the Northeast, frequently attend events held in North Hempstead. The I-CERV youth volunteers participate in hundreds of hours of volunteer and community service each year.

—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead

Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Councilmember Lurvey with members of the Ismaili Council. (Contributed photo)

Michael Ginor (Contributed photo)

Great Neck Resident Pleads Guilty To $65 Million Ponzi Lending Scheme

Former Bond Trader And Hedge Fund Founder Jeffrey Soberman Parket Pleads Guilty

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Daniel B. Brubaker, Inspector in Charge of the New York Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), announced that Jeffrey Soberman Parket, a former bond trader and the former principal of several hedge funds, pled guilty today in Manhattan federal court to wire fraud and bank fraud.

Parket obtained over $65 million in loans from individual and institutional lenders by fabricating assets, doctoring bank and brokerage statements, and forging business correspondence and signatures, resulting in over $37 million in victim losses. Parket pled guilty before United States District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Parket traded on his reputation as a respected financier and fabricated paper assets to defraud lenders of millions of dollars in loans that they never would have made if not for his lies and the sophisticated ruses he used to support those lies. His scheme cost some of his victims everything they had. He will now be held accountable for his deceit.”

USPIS Inspector in Charge Daniel B. Brubaker said: “Parket took advantage of

his investors’ trust, among them his friends and family members, and perpetrated an intricate scheme involving fraudulent documents and identity theft to hide his fraud from them. However, Postal Inspectors and our law enforcement partners unraveled Parket’s web of deceit and exposed all his crimes. Parket’s conviction today vindicates the investors he defrauded of almost $40 million. His conviction should also serve as a warning to would-be fraudsters: Postal Inspectors will dedicate every resource in our arsenal to protect the integrity of the mail and pursue anyone who betrays the public trust and preys on innocent investors.”

As alleged in the Complaint and Information and based on other filings and statements made in court: From at least 2016 through December 2021, Parket fraudulently obtained over $65 million in shortterm loans from individuals and financial institutions by materially misrepresenting his financial condition and pledging fake collateral. Claiming that he needed shortterm liquidity for investment opportunities or real estate purchases, Parket constructed elaborate stories and submitted hundreds of pages of supporting documents to obtain

loans he had no intention of repaying. Among other things, he falsified bank and brokerage statements and contracts allegedly reflecting his significant assets and ownership interests in valuable investment accounts. To furnish proof of some of these ownership interests, Parket also used the names, titles, and forged signatures of actual company executives he falsely claimed were his business associates. He created fake email addresses for them and forged lengthy email correspondence regarding measures supposedly taken by Parket and his purported business associates to secure the loans.

To perpetuate the scheme, Parket used loans from new lenders to pay back earlier lenders. He also made fraudulent representations about delayed acquisitions and temporary liquidity issues to induce his existing lenders to extend the maturity date of his loans or to provide him millions of dollars in additional loans.

Parket’s individual victims included friends and professional acquaintances, some of whom he persuaded to provide him numerous loans. His institutional victims included short-term bridge lenders, a real estate services company, a bank insured by

the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and an insurance company focused on helping clients save for retirement.

Throughout the offense period, Parket also persuaded family members to transfer funds to his personal accounts by falsely promising to safely invest their life savings on their behalf. He then used the funds to pay down fraudulently obtained loans.

Parket, 59, of Great Neck, New York, pled guilty to one count of wire fraud affecting a financial institution and one count of bank fraud, each of which carries a maximum potential sentence of 30 years in prison.

The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Sentencing has been scheduled for June 28, 2023.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of USPIS.

This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jane Y. Chong is in charge of the prosecution.

—Information from Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office of Southern District of New York

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

Defensive Driving

10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Parkville Branch Library Programming Room) Complete your Defensive Driving course with the Empire Safety Council. Register in person at the Parkville branch; please bring a $30 check or money order payable to “Empire Safety Council” to reserve your spot. Please note that this is a 6-hour class with a 30-minute break for lunch.

SUNDAY, MARCH 5

Live Performance at Great Neck House

3 p.m. (Great Neck House) See Godfrey Townsend. Godfrey Townsend, the legendary guitarist for the Yardbirds, is back by popular demand. He returns to perform the hits of The Beatles, Eric Clapton and more.

MONDAY, MARCH 6

Community Service Project

3:30-5 p.m. (Station Branch Community Room) Community Service Project: Collaboration with Love for Our Elders. Love for Our Elders is an organization that sends letters of encouragement and hope to vulnerable elders throughout the United States. Writing materials will be provided.

This community service opportunity is suitable for teens ages 13 and older. One hour of Community Service will be awarded per letter completed by participants.

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

Blood Pressure Screenings with St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center

12-2 p.m. (Station Branch Small Room) Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, affects an astounding one in four American adults. This condition usually has no symptoms, which is why it is often called the “silent killer.” Have your blood pressure checked by a clinical nurse, free of charge. Healthcare proxy information is also available.

Socrates Salon

3-4:30 p.m. (Virtual) Monthly lively conversation facilitated by Ron Gross. Come share your life experiences, knowledge, and wisdom about topics that matter, as we move from small talk to Big Talk. Everyone speaks and everyone listens, because all of us are wiser than any one of us. Visit greatnecklibrary.org for zoom information. Visit greatnecklibrary.org for more information.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

Chess Club

12:30-4:30 p.m. (Main Library Small Multipurpose Room) Stop by and play chess with a friend, neighbor, or community member.

Tales & Tunes with Miss Marisa

2:30-3:30 p.m. (Parkville Branch Library Community Room) Join Miss Marisa for music and movement, interactive literacy, and socializing with other children. This program is suitable for children ages 3-6 years with an accompanying adult. Visit greatnecklibrary.org for registration information.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

Project Independence

10:30 a.m. (Zoom) A Town of North Hempstead event for seniors. Social discussion group via Zoom. Enjoy talking with others and meeting your neighbors. Open to North Hempstead residents age 60 and older. If interested call 311 or 516-869-6311 to register and receive a Zoom link.

AARP Tax Help

10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Parkville Branch Library Programming Room) AARP will be offering

its tax assistance for the 2022 tax year on Thursdays. This program is available from February 9 through April 13. Please call the Parkville Branch Circulation Department at x273 or x256 to sign up for a time slot.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

Project Independence and You Radio Show

10 a.m.- 12 p.m. Tune into the Project Independence and You Radio Show at 88.1 FM and WCWP.org. A Town of North Hempstead event for seniors. Karen Micciche, FIT/OGA (Executive Director, Literacy Nassau) to discuss Literacy Nassau. Call 311 for more information.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10SUNDAY, MARCH 12

Film at Great Neck House

Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 5 and 8 p.m., Sundays at 5 p.m. (Great Neck House) The Black Phone (Horror, thriller | R | 2021). Finney, a shy but clever 13-year-old boy, is abducted by a sadistic killer and trapped in a soundproof basement where screaming is of little use. When a disconnected phone on the wall begins to ring, Finney discovers that he can hear the voices of the killer’s previous victims. And they are dead set on making sure that what happened to them doesn’t happen to Finney.

Moriches Field Brewing Company received $18,750 to revitalize an empty downtown space. (Cheers to that.)

Revitalization grants are just one of the ways we help businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways. For Moriches Field Brewing Company, a grant from our economic development program was a perfect fit to help them renovate a previously vacant property. A discount through our Vacant Space Revival Program saved them more than $4,000 on their electric bills, and rebates for upgrading to LED lighting are keeping them saving month after month.

Helping revitalize our Island, one business at a time, is something we’re proud to be part of and something definitely worth celebrating.

Grants | Rebates | Incentives | Assessments | Community Support

For more information, visit PSEGLINY.com/EcoDev

Long Island Cannabis Conversations

Part I: Colonial Traces, From Hempstead to the Hamptons

and 1800s.”

JANET BURNS

As New York State continues pushing forward into an era where cannabis will be a legal, taxed part of our economy, it’s important to know some of the history of this plant that humans have cultivated for likely tens of thousands of years.

Here on Long Island, where traces of this history remain in the form of street signs, town names, and some local laws, it may be doubly important to keep an eye on our past if we hope to build an equitable, sustainable cannabis industry.

In short, humans and cannabis have for thousands of years demonstrated what is known as mutualistic coevolution, meaning that our two species have profited and excelled by sticking together. As we have benefited from the cannabis plant’s nutrition (e.g. proteins and oils), its fibers (e.g. in cords and cloth), and its medicinal uses (e.g. anti-inflammatory, psychoactive, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties, just to name a few), so has the plant known as cannabis sativa (whose modern cultivars include the “Sativa” and “Indica” plants we smoke, as well as low-THC hemp) prospered by being intentionally transported and grown around the globe.

The exact etymology of the word “cannabis” is still under dispute, but what’s clear is that cultures around the world have given names to this plant, sometimes known as hemp — also spelled, in various parts of the European continent, as “hennep” or “hamp.”

By the time Europeans started arriving in present-day Long Island, most societies and cultures around the world had a substantial appreciation for cannabis, including European royals, doctors, scientists, and military figures.

In the second half of the last millenium, in fact, cannabis played a large role in both pre-U.S. and early U.S. history.

Given the plant’s utility, European colonists were keen to start growing it in “the New World,” and did so up and down the East Coast. Along with tobacco and cotton, it was also one of the major crops which kidnapped and enslaved people of African descent (and, in some cases, Indigenous Americans) were forced to grow on plantations. It’s well known, for example, that George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were both proponents of the plant, and cultivated personal crops of it on their own plantations using slave labor.

In 1600s and 1700s, when ships roamed the seas seeking precious cargos in whatever form, cannabis was particularly seen as a major resource because it provided strong fibers used for cloth, such as ships’ sails, and for rope, i.e. the rigging that held ships’ sails in place.

And so it was, centuries before New York State would be nicknamed the “Hempire State” because of its pro-hemp farming regulations, that Long Island became one of the major sources for rope in the colonized world.

Many aspects of the exact history of hemp-growing on Long Island remain unclear, as records of agricultural production as well as slave-owning operations in our region are sparse.

What is clear, however, is that hemp was grown abundantly for at least 100 years by European colonists (and the laborers they enslaved, or in some cases paid) up and down Long Island. For one thing, well-known place names establish the connection: in Nassau County, we have Hempstead, which means “hemp farm;” to the east, in Suffolk County, we have the Hamptons, or “hemp towns.”

“That whole area of Long Island was called the Hamptons, and ‘hamp’ is the Northern European word for ‘hemp,’” explained entrepreneur and author John Roulac in an interview with Anton Media Group. “Essentially, Long Island was the provider of hemp for making ropes and sails for the shipping industry in the 1700s

“Basically, with the advent of steam power, hemp was no longer a significant crop after, say, the 1870s,” Roulac said. In the early 20th century, the burgeoning U.S. pharmaceutical industry also identified cannabis as a threat, in a word (among other things, which future parts of this series will discuss), and the nation’s enthusiasm for hemp dropped from a boil to a simmer.

Looking back at the region’s history, it’s also clear that these vital hemp crops on colonial-era Long Island were being grown, at least in part, by enslaved persons of African descent.

According to Hofstra University’s previous “Slavery on Long Island” exhibit: “After the English took over New Netherlands (changing the name to New York) in 1664, the colony became more deeply involved with the importation of slaves via the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and from the Caribbean. In order to satisfy labor demands in their colonies, the English actively sought to step up their efforts to transform African men, women, and children into chattel property.”

“The Census and tax data from the late 17th century indicates that approximately two out of five households in Queens and Suffolk counties included one or more slaves,” Hofstra researchers found. “By the mid-18th century, an internal slave trade was the predominant method of exchanging and acquiring slaves on Long Island, and it greatly contributed to the seven-fold increase in the number of slaves by the early 19th century.”

And while historical records do indicate clearly that this was going on, Long Island has comparatively few records of the transactions themselves. As researchers noted: “Unlike New York City, with its public forums [and slave market/s], the buying and selling of slaves on the Island was typically a private matter during this time.”

Despite slave-owners’ bookkeeping issues, however, some researchers have been able to create a timeline of that era on the Island, and even to trace back family lines of people now living on Long Island whose ancestors were brought there by force.

The Plain Sight Project, for one, has tracked down records of hundreds of slaves who lived mostly on Eastern Long Island, from Sag Harbor to East Hampton. Meanwhile, as our next installment of “Long Island Cannabis Conversations” will explore, some of the people who’ve been in this same region since long before European colonists arrived are now poised to carry this plant, and its potential for equity and positive change, into a new era.

A hemp stalk cut open to reveal the fibrous stem within. (Public domain)

A painting of the Constitution, a.k.a. Old Ironsides, c. 1803–04, attributed to Michel Felice Corné (1752–1845). (Public domain)

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State Education Department Proposes Indigenous Culture And Language Studies Certification For Teachers

Certification Would Support Preservation of Indigenous Cultures and Languages

60-Day Public Comment Period Through May 1

The New York State Education Department today proposed the creation of the Indigenous Culture and Language Studies (All Grades) certificate for teachers, Commissioner Betty A. Rosa announced. If established, the new certification area would increase the capacity and number of teachers who can teach indigenous cultures and languages while increasing the awareness, knowledge, and appreciation for indigenous peoples. The Department will accept public comment on the proposal through May 1 and is conducting ongoing consultation with Indigenous Nations regarding these proposed regulations. This past month, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Newsletter said, “[i] t is a shared goal with the NYSED to create tenured teaching positions for Indigenous language instructors in public schools across the State.”

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, “Learning and preserving New York’s Indigenous languages are critical to recognizing the rich tapestry of our diverse state and acknowledging the importance of sustaining indigenous cultures both within and outside the Nations. Diversity is a tenet of the mission of the Board of Regents to create and sustain nurturing and engaging learning environments for all students.”

Commissioner Rosa said, “All voices must be heard, respected, and considered. By expanding opportunities for teachers, we are advancing access to educational excellence and equity for all students. Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education, such as learning about indigenous languages and cultures, affirms cultural identities, develops students’ abilities to connect across lines of difference, and elevates historically marginalized voices.”

Currently, individuals who would like to teach an indigenous language in New York State public schools can obtain a permit. Although a permit authorizes an individual to teach in public schools, it is not equivalent to a teaching certificate.

Teachers who hold a certificate demonstrate their content, pedagogical knowledge, and skills through the certification process and may be eligible for tenure in a school district. Additionally, the Professional teaching certificate is continuously valid, while individuals who hold a permit would need to apply to renew their permit every five years after their first twoyear permit. Having both the permit and proposed new certificate as options would allow permit holders to continue practicing in the classroom while also attracting new teachers into this area.

More information on the proposed regulatory changes to establish the Indigenous Culture and Language Studies (All Grades) certificate and the registration requirements for teacher preparation programs leading to this certificate may be found

in the Item {link} and presentation {link} discussed by the Board of Regents today.

Following the 60-day public comment period required under the State Administrative Procedure Act, it is anticipated that the proposed amendment will

be presented to the Board of Regents for adoption at its June 2023 meeting. Public comments may be submitted via email to oheregcomments@nysed.gov.

—Submitted by the New York State Board of Education

FCA Offers Free Help With Medicare Enrollment

Recent changes make coverage even more affordable

Enrolling in Medicare can be confusing. Family and Children’s Association’s (FCA) Free Nassau County Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) can help with enrollment guidance by phone.

The Open Enrollment season for people who are currently enrolled in Medicare ended December 7, 2022, but there is another potential opportunity to switch Medicare health plans for those currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO or PPO).

The additional Open Enrollment season runs from January 1 through March 31, with any changes effective the first day of the month following enrollment. There is also the opportunity to drop your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to traditional Medicare during this time, although you would also need to sign up for a Medicare drug plan. If you find that the plan in which you are currently enrolled does not work for you, this added flexibility can help you find a new plan that better suits your needs.

Please note, that if you were not currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you cannot sign up for one at this time. The current enrollment period only allows people to switch or drop a plan.

Income Limit Increase Helps More People

The Medicare Savings Program has dramatically increased the income limits for eligibility. This program can help pay your Medicare Part B premium and can dramatically lower your drug costs. If you were previously found to be ineligible for this program, you should call Family and Children’s Association’s (FCA) Nassau County Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) office to see if you are now eligible.

Medicare coverage can be confusing

Barry Kiltsburg

for the uninitiated, as there are various options. Choosing the right plan for you requires careful consideration. If you need help understanding or choosing a plan, FCA can help guide you through the process with free help by calling 516-485-3754.

There are four basic parts of Medicare: Hospital Insurance (Part A) covers you as an inpatient in a hospital or skilled nursing or rehabilitation facility, or for skilled home care after a hospitalization. Medicare Part A also can cover hospice care if you have a terminal illness. For most people Medicare Part A is premium free.

Medicare Medical Insurance (Part B) covers physician and other outpatient services. These services include doctor visits, hospital outpatient services, lab tests; physical, speech or occupational

therapy; and durable medical equipment for use in the home. The standard Part B premium amount in 2022 is $164.90. Most people pay the standard Part B premium amount. If your modified adjusted gross income as reported on your IRS tax return from 2 years ago is above a certain amount, you’ll pay the standard premium amount and an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). IRMAA is an extra charge added to your premium. Medicare Part C You may opt for Medicare Advantage plans instead of Part B. Medicare are managed care plans including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs). These plans generally have a network of providers. In an HMO you must use providers in that network. If you join a PPO, you can go out of the network, but you will have a higher copayment for out of network services. Medicare Advantage plans generally cover prescription drugs, otherwise covered by Medicare Part D, and frequently cover non-Medicare services such as vision, dental and hearing services.

Medicare Part D is prescription coverage. There are 19 drug plans in New York State. These plans vary in premium cost and formularies.

Medigap

There are Medicare supplement plans known as Medigap. These are standardized plans that can fill most of the Medicare gaps such as deductibles and co-insurance.

For more information about these changes to Medicare and for any other information pertaining to your health benefits, you can call our office at 516485-3754 and a trained counselor will assist you.

—Submitted by Barry Klitsberg, Nassau County Medicare Counselor, FCA

(Photo submitted by Family and Children’s Association)

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5 Things You Might Be Surprised to Learn About Insurance

How con dent are you about the insurance strategies you have in place to protect against an unexpected turn in your life? Do you feel like you have a clear handle on how to manage your insurance needs effectively?

Before you answer, here are ve aspects of insurance coverage that may surprise you:

1. Even a stay-at-home spouse may need life insurance. We tend to think of insurance as something to replace income that would be lost if a person dies. But household contributions aren’t limited to take-home pay. For example, a stay-at-home spouse might ful l a role – such as childcare and housekeeping - that would be expensive to replicate if they were no longer around. Think about the nancial impact the loss of him or her would have on the overall budget and expenses of the household. An appropriate life insurance policy can help mitigate that burden at a time when mourning families have plenty of other worries and stressors on their minds.

2. Single people should be protected, too.

Assuming you have no dependents, there may be no obvious reason to have life insurance in place. But if you pass away unexpectedly, you may still leave behind some expenses, such as funeral costs. Also, if you carry debts that outstrip your assets, family members may have to assume responsibility for them. One more consideration is that life insurance may be more attainable and economical if you buy it when you’re younger and healthy.

3. You may want to insure the lives of children.

How would your life be affected if your child passed away? Would it impact your ability, at least for a time, to carry on with work and other aspects of your life? While it’s a terrible prospect to have to contemplate, it is a possibility for which you may want some nancial protection. Life insurance for a young healthy, person can be very cost effective in most cases.

4. Too many people risk being underinsured, especially women. According to a 2021 study by LIMRA and Life Happens, survey

by the Life Insurance and Market Research Association, just 47% of women have life insurance coverage in place compared to 58% of men1. In most cases today, the need for insurance coverage is generally equal regardless of gender.

5. Disability coverage may be even more important than life insurance.

Suffering a disabling injury or illness that sidelines you from work can have a dramatic impact on your income. Most people make life insurance a priority, but for those who do not, the result is bills that risk going unpaid and nancial goals unmet.

According to the Social Security Administration, more than one in four Americans age 20 or older will become disabled before retirement age2. The risk is greater than you think.

Reviewing your protection needs is an important part of the nancial planning process. Talk to your nancial advisor if you have any concerns about your own coverage.

Michael J. Laliberte, CRPC® is a Financial Advisor with Andriola, Goldberg & Associates a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. He offers fee-based nancial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 12 years.

To contact him, www.ameripriseadvisors.com/ Michael.j.laliberte

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SANTOS WATCH

Treasurer Of The Sierra Madre?

Following FEC insistence, Santos announces new campaign finance head

JANET BURNS

acing a perilous quest for riches, a fictitious but wise man once said, “Ah, as long as there’s no find, the noble brotherhood will last, but when the piles of gold begin to grow... that’s when the trouble starts.”

In this case, Howard, as portrayed by Walter Huston in the 1948 film adaptation of the novel The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, was talking about his fellow gold-diggers and the treacherous cost of achieving wealth in the 1920s southwest.

But he could have been talking about the tribulations of U.S. Representative George Santos a hundred years later over on the east coast — that is, depending on how the rest of this story plays out, and how much more digging we see.

To wit, the biggest Santos news we’re aware of this week is the appointment of a new campaign treasurer for the congressman, a situation which probably sounds a lot simpler than it is.

In mid-February, the Federal Election

Comission sent a letter to Rep. Santos demanding that he appoint a new treasurer to oversee his campaign finances within a month; in prior weeks, Santos’ relatively longtime treasurer Nancy Marks, a veteran GOP finance operator, resigned from the post, then Santos said that another person was his treasurer, who swiftly denied that they held the post.

After the legal 10-day deadline to

appoint a new treasurer for Santos’ reelection campaign (which may or may not be happening, officially) had more than passed, the FEC told Santos he had one more month to appoint a new treasurer, or risk having the campaign’s accounts frozen; a week later, in late February, an FEC filing for the campaign named Andrew Olson of Elmhurst, listed at Santos’ own prior address, as his new campaign ‘money guy.’ Tim Balk reported for the New York Daily News the next day that Santos’ lawyer had “declined to confirm whether Olson was the new treasurer.”

If it’s true, Olson is likely to have an exciting road ahead, whether or not it ultimately leads to lucre.

Lee Brown reported for the New York Post on February 16, “Disgraced Long Island Rep. George Santos is reportedly set on running for re-election in 2024 — even as outraged locals marched on his district office Wednesday again, demanding his ouster over his lies. Fellow New York Rep. Richie Torres confirmed reports that ‘Santos is telling advisors that he wishes to serve a 2nd term, despite previously promising that he wouldn’t run for reelection.’”

Other Recent Highlights:

• In an hour-long filmed interview, Rep. Santos told semi-disgraced British news personality Piers Morgan that he is “just a regular person” who makes mistakes, and also that he was surprised he got caught: “I ran in 2020 for the same exact seat for Congress and I got away with it then.”

• Video footage from the House of Representatives was used in a viral parody by the well-known humor account Bad Lip Reading, in which Santos gets several solid nods, including the voicedover claim, “I also invented ‘movie date night.’ It’s not a big deal.”

• As Jessica Piper reported for Politico on Feb. 22, “One of George Santos’ first acts as a candidate for Congress in 2019, according to his campaign finance filings, was making a series of four-figure donations from his campaign to a pair of local Republican groups and President Donald Trump’s reelection committee. But according to those groups’ own filings, the contributions were never received — and may not have been donated.”

The official portrait of U.S. Representative George Santos (R, NY-03). (Public domain)

Colorectal cancer is the 3rd leading cause of cancer deaths among women. That's why the Northwell Cancer Institute and the Katz Institute for Women's Health are working together to raise awareness about testing and prevention. Join our community events for information on screening, healthy habits and other ways to fight back.

Happy Anniversary, Nassau Inter-County Express Bus Service

January 2023 marks the eleventh anniversary for Nassau Inter County Express Bus . Thousands of Nassau County residents ride NICE Bus to jobs, schools and other destinations in Queens. Many transfer to the NYC Transit subway at Flushing, Jamaica or Far Rockaway stations. Thousands of Queens residents travel via NICE bus to jobs, schools, medical appointments and other destinations in Nassau County. The viability of NICE benefits everyone. To understand the origins of how we got here, you must go back in time to the early 1970’s. Prior to NICE, bus service in Nassau County was operated under Long Island Bus and Metropolitan Suburban Bus Authority. In 1973, Nassau County purchased equipment, routes and some facilities from numerous private bus operators most of whom were experiencing serious financial difficulties. These private bus operators included Bee Line, Rockville Center Bus Corporation, Utility Lines, Stage Coach Lines, Schenck Transportation, Inc., Nassau Bus Line, Hempstead Bus Corporation, Jerusalem Avenue Bus Lines, Universal Auto Bus, Roosevelt Bus Lines, Stage Coach Lines, Hendrickson Bus Corporation and others. Their respective fare box income was insufficient to cover current day to day operating expenses. They lacked the funding to purchase new replacement buses, along with upgrading out of date maintenance and operating bus garages. Nassau County followed up that same

PENNER STATION

Larry Penner

year by entering into a lease and operating agreement with the MTA to continue providing local bus service. This resulted in creation of the Metropolitan Suburban Bus Authority. Years later, MSBA was followed by Long Island Bus and on January 1, 2012 Nassau Inter County Express. Most of the same routes operated by MSBA, LI Bus and NICE Bus today can be traced back to the various private bus operators.

It is a four-way dance between fares paid by riders along with funding provided by Nassau County, the State and the Federal government in financing public bus transportation operated by NICE. They operate a fleet of 280 buses out of the Mitchel Field bus garage. NICE also operates a fleet of 122 Able Ride paratransit vehicles out of the Stewart Avenue facility. Both facilities were constructed by federal capital grants with local matching funds provided by Nassau

County and the State Department of Transportation. It was the same funding sources for both construction of the Hempstead Multi-Modal Bus Terminal, Mineola Intermodal Bus Terminal/Commuter Parking Garage and Rockville Centre Bus Garage which was removed from active transit service in 2017. All five of these investments combined cost over $100 million. In today’s dollars, it would be far higher.

Over time, there have been other capital investments, including replacement buses, compressed natural gas fueling stations, facility modifications to accommodate CNG buses inside garages, new fare collection equipment, automatic vehicle locator equipment, real time communications systems to notify riders for anticipated arrival of the next bus, shelters, bus stop signs and other support equipment necessary to run the system. Just like a homeowner, what is new today requires constant maintenance, periodic upgrades and eventual replacement years later. Capital physical assets of any bus system (including revenue vehicles along with bus facility components such as HVAC, bus washers, paint booths, engine shops, bays, pits, lifts, doors, fueling stations, lighting, security systems and many others) eventually reach the end of their useful life. Significant changes in technology also require replacement of outdated equipment.

It has been 50 years, since Nassau County took control of all bus routes from private operators.

Over that time period, Nassau County, Albany and Washington have combined invested over $800 million in capital improvements. Operating subsidy dollars easily top over $1.5 billion.

NICE services continue to be one of the best bargains around. Since the 1950s, the average cost of riding a bus in Nassau County has gone up at a lower rate than either the consumer price index or inflation. The Metro Card introduced in 1996 affords a free transfer between NICE bus and the NYC Transit bus or subway. Prior to this, riders had to pay two full fares. Purchasing either a weekly or monthly pass further reduces the cost per ride. Many employers offer transit checks, which pay even more of the costs.

TANSTAFL - There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch, or in this case, bus ride. NICE services continue to be one of the best bargains around.

(Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a former Director for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management. This included the development, review, approval and oversight for billions in capital projects and programs for NJ Transit, New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NYC Transit bus, subway and Staten Island Railway, Long Island and Metro North Rail Roads, MTA Bus, Nassau County NICE Bus along with 30 other transit agencies in NY & NJ.).

The Reframe: Shifting the Way in Which You View a Behavior Can Enhance Your Relationship

According to Dr. John Gottman, famed relationship researcher, approximately 69 percent of the problems that couples face are perpetual problems. This means that couples will have unsolvable problems that will recur throughout their relationship. For each couple, this issue is different, such as the influence of in-laws on the decisions the couple makes, different levels of cleanliness in the home, difficulties with work/life balance, etc.

Take for example, hypothetical couple Jessica and Steve, who have been married for four years and living together for three. They have very different views when it comes to cleanliness in the home and household chores. Steve wants the house to be pristine before

LOVE LESSONS

Marisa T. Cohen, PhD

inviting any company over, while Jessica is not bothered by piles of clothing on the floor or towers of dishes in the sink. They have attempted to reach a compromise in the past and have also come up with solutions such as maintaining

separate to do lists. Their solutions have helped them avoid huge blow outs, but they still have different thresholds for tidiness, which can get on one another’s nerves. Rather than wracking their brains trying to come up with new solutions, they should acknowledge that they have different views when it comes to household chores such as cleaning. Additionally, they should recognize that this is something that is likely to come up throughout their relationship. By accepting that this is a perpetual problem, they are letting go of the tendency to blame one another, and instead acknowledge that they just don’t see eye to eye. One person is not right, one person is not wrong, they each have their own views.

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Cue the Reframe

Reframing is a technique that can shift your mindset so that you can view a person or situation from a different perspective. For example, if a person at work is shouting their opinions during a meeting, instead of thinking of them as an aggressive coworker, you can reframe and view the coworker as a passionate person.

By reframing how we think about our partners, specifically when it comes to dealing with perpetual problems, we alter our cognitions, which can change our feelings and lead to a softer exchange. This prevents partners from approaching conflict with hostility and ensures that they discuss issues with kindness. This makes it more likely that

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COLUMNS

Behind the Mask of Purim

In a few days, Jewish people around the world will parade through streets and synagogues dressed as the brave Queen Esther and the wise Mordechai. Dressing in costume is exciting. When we change our outward appearance, we feel different; through the eyes of a mask, we experience a new way of looking at the world.

Everyone loves Purim because it is a day filled with lighthearted fun. But beneath the masquerades, there is a serious message: the remembrance of a time of great danger, and of a wicked man who tried to utterly destroy the Jewish people.

We can see these timely themes woven throughout the Bible. The Almighty commands Moses to make holy garments for his brother Aharon, the Kohen Gadol (High Priest). We read a detailed description of the clothing worn by Aharon and by the other Kohanim—clothes that clearly set them apart from ordinary people and marked the sanctity of their position.

The Kohen’s elegant robe and bejeweled breastplate were not only beautiful, but also inspirational, and fitting for someone whose

role was to elevate the Jewish nation in the eyes of The Almighty. According to Maimonides, the priestly garments were meant to elicit respect for the worthiness of the Kohen as a holy vehicle. His majestic attire would motivate each Jew to connect with the Almighty.

On Purim we are commanded to remember how the Biblical Haman and others sought to destroy us. We’ve all heard the expression, “Clothes make the man”—and to a large extent, it’s true. The clothing of the Kohanim is an excellent example. Of course, focusing on clothing for superficial reasons can

become excessive, but when used for the purpose of holiness, and worn with dignity and modesty, clothes are symbolically elevating. Self-respecting clothing raises our image in the eyes of others. They encourage us and those around us to live according to higher ideals. What we wear on the outside affects how we speak, behave, and think.

Clothes can also convey a sense of history and give us a sociological context. Some of our grandparents and great-grandparents arrived in America in tattered clothes; generations later, our closets burst with designer clothing. Interestingly, the Jewish Museum is currently displaying an exhibit tracing the history of fashion trends in America. It details how Jews, through their contributions to the garment industry, helped shaped and influence the American fashion ideal.

But attractive exhibits may gloss over the less-than-glamorous realities of the past. Carefully curated displays of sepia-toned photographs show us an old-fashioned world through rose-colored

glasses. A trip down memory lane makes us sentimental. But if the past also brings us painful memories—as history certainly does— why look back? Indeed, why bother remembering Amalek, an evil force bent on Jewish annihilation? Why not focus on the positive and move forward? However, The Almighty commands us “not to forget Amalek” for our own good. Parshat Zachor reminds us that Amalek still exists in the world even today, and we should stay alert. Jewish survival depends on remembering our past. Surely in this way we can preserve our future.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

partners will work together as a team rather than see one another as adversaries.

So, let’s go back to Jessica and Steve. Steve may want to reframe the situation in the following way:

“Jessica is messy.” turns into “Jessica is working so hard, that she sometimes forgets to clean up after herself.”

Jessica may want to reframe her view of Steve in the following way:

This Purim, as Megillat Esther is read, we will drown out the name of the evil Haman. And when we hear the story of Esther’s transformation from a simple Jewish girl to a beautiful queen who dressed in royal gowns to win the favor of the king, we are reminded that each of us is like royalty, since we are all children of our Creator. Each of us is like a Kohen; we are called “a nation of priests.” When we see ourselves this way, we elevate our people in the eyes of the world, so that we can look forward to a time of true freedom and peace for all humankind.

“Steve is so rigid when it comes to cleaning.” becomes “Steve wants to keep a clean and comfortable home for us.”

By slightly altering the way in which you think about your partner or the situation, you open the possibility of interacting with one another with greater care. Additionally, your perpetual problems may not seem as serious or as insurmountable.

Stay on track this school year.

Give your student the tools they need to succeed this school year. Hofstra Youth Academy offers over 30 classes taught by New York State certified teachers and/ or professionals in the different areas. Students in grades K-12 can choose from academics, fine and studio arts, athletics, enrichment, video game development, and more. Academic courses follow the appropriate grade level New York State Standards and Curriculum for the different subject areas and serve as enrichment courses for students who may struggle academically in certain areas.

There’s still time to register!

Spring classes begin Saturday, March 4.

For more information or to register, visit ce.hofstra.edu/youth or contact us at 516-463-7400

RABBI MOSHE WEISBLUM

Long Island Startup Featured On Reality Show

JENNIFER CORR

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

Garrett Guttenberg and Eric Stroud started a company based in Long Beach called Seaview Adjusting Group, which helps home and business owners navigate insurance claims. And the pair took part in a reality show called The Blox, a show that houses entrepreneurs together as they go through several challenges putting their entrepreneurial skills to the test.

It can be watched for free on Google Play, the App Store and on an original, free app called The Blox. This app does much more than just allow for binging of the show, it has resources for entrepreneurs, meditations, music that can help put you in the workzone and more.

According to news-website, Heavy, MTV star Wes Bergmann, an entrepreneur himself, is the man behind the show. He started in a competitive reality show called The Challenge. And he wanted to create a reality show of his own.

The format is similar to that of The Champion. The entrepreneurs face off in “start-up games” and are judged by up and coming celebrities. Bergmann told Heavy that he was proud of the impact the show had on the contestants, changing their lives in a short period of time.

Guttenberg said he found out about the show through an advertisement when he was scrolling through social media. Taking a leap of faith, he decided to apply to be on season 5.

“The TV show is the largest, live startup competition,” Guttenberg said. “It’s a

combination of a docu-series and a competitive reality TV show. We were basically put through his ‘startup accelerator’, as he called it. We’d sit through a class each day, which was all recorded, on the different topics... And there was competitions throughout the show that stemmed from the topics from each day, and then you’d be broken out into different rooms with judges. All these judges were from different multi-million dollar companies and start ups and such. They’d basically just rank your presentation based on the challenge.”

Topics focused on in the show included utilizing technology, copy-writing and design, search engine optimization, branding and storytelling, early-state fundraising and deal structures and more.

“The coolest thing was I’ve never been in a room with so many like-minded people,” Guttenberg said. “They’re all people who left different fields and had a dream and a vision and basically sacrificed everything to start their own company. Some of them were very new to business. Some of them had been running their company for years.”

And being on a reality show was an experience in itself. Guttenberg said they would shoot from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and he’d forget the cameras were even there. He had to stay in Kansas for a week to film the show, leaving behind his family, including two young sons. Being away from his family was the hardest challenge of the show, as well as not having much down time to call his family and run his business.

“I went into the whole competition really expecting nothing,” Guttenberg said. “But I was super happy that we did that. We left with a lot of valuable information on how to grow the business.”

Guttenberg and Stroud started Seaview Adjusting Group in 2020 to assist home

owners and property owners with their insurance claims against the insurance carriers. They handle the claim, they negotiate with the insurance company and they make sure the home or property owners are getting paid adequately in order to re-build after a fire, water damage from a pipe break or flood, or any other factors that can damage a home.

“I’ve been in insurance since I graduated law school in 2012,” Guttenberg. “I write flood insurance, homeowners and business on the brokers side. In 2019, I had a fire at my house in Oceanside and we lost the house and we lost everything to the fire. I brought in public adjusters who I’ve heard of... Long story short, I wasn’t happy with the job they did and that meant I knew more about the insurance policies, coverage... I ended firing those guys and I took the claim from that point to the end by myself. And I realized there was a need for more people in the public adjusters.”

Since starting the business, they’ve helped home and property owners on Long Island, in New York City and in Westchester with their claims.

Long Islanders were featured on the reality show, The Blox.

(Photo courtesy The Blox)

HOME IMPROVEMENT

REPURPOSING YOUR BACKYARD Replace those old windows

DIY firepit…finally

Backyarding Has A Purpose

Identify your backyard’s purpose, then build the yard of your dreams

Backyarding—the trend to use the backyard for everything from tele-working and working out to relaxing and recreating—has a di erent purpose for each of us. Identifying your backyard’s role in your family’s health and happiness is the key to cultivating a purposeful outdoor space that is customized to your needs.

“How do you a create a more purposeful outdoor space? First, you need to identify what type of ‘backyarder’ you are,” explained Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute and the TurfMutt Foundation. “Then, you can get to work in your yard with that idea in mind.”

Here are just a few of the backyarding personality types. Which one are you?

Landscaper

Your yard makes neighbors green with envy. You know how to maintain a healthy living landscape all year long, and you have the latest outdoor power equipment to make even big jobs easier. You put the right plant in the right place, so your green space is always thriving.

Outdoor athlete

Forget basement workouts—you have an outdoor gym and exercise space that makes the neighborhood running club want to pit stop at your house. Your yard is the ideal place to stay active and inspire others to work out, too.

Work From Home Pro

Your work from home means nature is your background, and there’s no lag on the living landscape. The birds, squirrels and, yes, the dog your co-workers see on conference calls are all real. All you need is strong WiFi, your nicest sweatpants, and a jacket for chilly morning meetings, and you’re ready for work.

Nature Lover

You know that nature starts at your own back door, and understand pollinator support and plant choice. You prefer to spend your free time in the urban habitat of your living landscape, watching the birds, bats, butterflies and other wildlife that count on your yard for food and shelter.

Kid Zone Creator

You know the safest place for young kids is in your own backyard, and you work hard to create an outdoor fun zone they will never want to leave. A flat area of sturdy turfgrass to play sports and pitch a tent? Check. Treehouse? Check. Zipline strung safely between backyard trees? Check. An elevated garden where they can help grow family meals? Check. Natural playscapes, like a patch of sand bordered by rocks and log stump seating? Check. “Fun” is your middle name, and you are winning at this game.

Pet Pamperer

Your focus is on Fido – no one knows your yard better – and you take cues from your four-legged friends about how to purpose your backyard. You’ve planted appropriate turfgrass that can stand up to pet play, and you’ve used soft foliage to create a natural barricade between “off limits” areas and the rest of the lawn. Trees and shrubs are strategically planted for shade, and you’ve even set up a shallow water feature to help your pup cool off on hot days. Planting with

purpose for you means keeping toxic plants out of the picture. (For a complete list, visit ASPCA’s list of non-toxic and toxic plants).

Entertainer Extraordinaire

Your backyard was the neighborhood hot spot long before the pandemic made that trend posh. Family milestones, birthdays, graduations, reunions, socially distanced BBQs – your yard is *the* place to gather. Your yard is set up for success with patio furniture, fire pit, yard games, plenty of outdoor seating, string lights, and maybe

even an outdoor kitchen.

Zen Master

Your yard provides you and your family a place to be still and de-stress. Whether it’s coffee in the morning or yoga in the afternoon, you know that spending time outside is good for your health and well-being, and thanks to your yard these benefits are only steps away.

To learn more about creating the yard of your dreams, visit TurfMutt.com

—TurfMutt Foundation

Sustainable Landscaping

How homeowners and businesses design the landscape on their property, including plant choices, can result in significant positive benefits on the environment, our water supply and public health.

Go Native

Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they naturally occur. These important plant species provide nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other animals. Unlike natives, common horticultural plants do not fit the bill. These adaptations bring us several gardening advantages.

Wildlife Viewing

Native plants, birds, butterflies,

beneficial insects, and interesting critters are “made for each other.” Research shows that native wildlife prefers native plants.

Save Water

Once established, many native plants need minimal irrigation beyond normal rainfall.

Low Maintenance

Low maintenance landscaping methods are a natural fit with native plants that are already adapted to the local environment. Look forward to using less water, little to no fertilizer, little to no pesticides, less pruning, and less of your time.

Pesticide Freedom

Native plants have developed their own defenses against many pests and diseases.

Since most pesticides kill indiscriminately, beneficial insects become secondary targets in the fight against pests. Reducing or eliminating pesticide use lets natural pest control take over and keeps garden toxins out of our creeks and watersheds.

Support Local Ecology

As development replaces natural habitats, planting gardens, parks, and roadsides with New York native plants can provide a “bridge” to nearby remaining wildlands. Additional information about gardening with native plants can be found at bookstores, online and at your local library. Your local Soil and Water Conservation District may also be able to provide guidance.

—Department of Environmental Conservation

Sustain ecology with natives. (Christy Hinko)

Update Or Replace Windows

Energy efficient windows are an important consideration for both new and existing homes. Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use. If you are selecting windows for new construction or to replace existing windows, it’s important to choose the most efficient windows you can afford that work best in your climate.

If your existing windows are in good condition, taking steps to reduce the energy loss through windows can make your home more comfortable and save you money on energy bills. You have two broad options if you hope to reduce the amount of energy lost through your windows and improve the comfort of your home. You can replace your windows or you can update them.

Replace Your Windows

If you decide to replace your windows, you will have to make several decisions about the type of windows you purchase and the type of replacement you will make.

You may have the option of replacing the windows in their existing frame; discuss this option with your window retailer and installer to find out if it will work for you.

You will also need to decide what features you want in your windows. You will need to decide on the following:

• Frame types

• Glazing type

• Gas fills and spacers

• Operation types

Update Existing Windows

If your windows are in good condition, taking steps to improve their efficiency may be the most cost-effective option to increase the comfort of your home and save money on energy costs. There are several things you can do to improve the efficiency of your existing windows:

• Check existing windows for air leaks

• Caulk and weatherstrip. Check out our do-ityourself project to learn how to weatherstrip double-hung windows.

• Add window treatments and coverings.

• Add storm windows or panels

• Add solar control film

• Add exterior shading, such as awnings, exterior blinds or overhangs. With any efficiency improvements, take steps to ensure proper installation and check for air leaks after the improvement.

Selection Process

In addition to choosing the window type, you also need to consider design, energy use and labeling, warranties and installation. First look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new windows. Then review ratings on the energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to find the most efficient windows.

NFRC ratings are included on all ENERGY STAR certified windows and provide a reliable way to determine a window’s energy properties and compare products.

Selection Tips

• Look for the ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels.

• In colder climates, consider selecting gasfilled windows with low-e coatings to reduce heat loss. In warmer climates, select windows with coatings to reduce heat gain.

• Choose a low U-factor for better thermal resistance in colder climates; the U-factor is the rate at which a window conducts non-solar heat flow.

• Look for a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). SHGC is a measure of solar radiation admitted through a window. Low SHGCs reduce heat gain in warm climates.

• Select windows with both low U-factors and low SHGCs to maximize energy savings in temperate climates with both cold and hot seasons.

• Look for whole-unit U-factors and SHGCs, rather than center-of-glass U-factors and SHGCs. Whole-unit numbers more accurately reflect the energy performance of the entire product.

Installation

Even the most energy-efficient window must be properly installed to ensure energy efficiency and comfort. Have your windows installed by trained professionals according to manufacturer’s instructions; otherwise, your warranty may be void.

Window installation varies depending on the type of window, the construction of the house (wood, masonry, etc.), the exterior cladding (wood siding, stucco, brick, etc.), and the type (if any) of weather-restrictive barrier. Windows, flashing, and air sealing should all be installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to perform correctly.

—U.S. Department of Energy

How To Build A Fire Pit

Awood-burning fire pit makes a great outdoor gathering place for friends and family. Installing a fire pit is a DIY project that can be configured for your yard’s measurements. This guide teaches you how to build a fire pit using concrete pavers or concrete blocks for a quick, easy backyard upgrade that can be enjoyed in any season.

Select Location and Fire Pit Shape

Whether you are building a fire pit out of stone or concrete pavers or using a fire pit kit, you must select a location that is a safe distance from any structures and low hanging trees.

Consult local building code and homeowner association for any restrictions.

Disclosing your backyard fire pit could be a requirement of your homeowner’s insurance policy. Check with your agent to learn if having a fire pit may affect your coverage.

The style and shape of your fire pit will determine the type of blocks you’ll need to purchase. Fire pits typically measure 3 to 4 feet across.

For a fire pit ring, you need trapezoidal blocks, which are narrower on one side.

This allows the edges to fit snugly together for a circle without creating any gaps.

A square fire pit uses rectangular blocks and can be constructed in a variety of patterns with blocks of different shapes and sizes.

Mark and Prepare the Fire Pit Site

Outline what will be the footprint of the fire pit to mark your work area.

If you are building a circular fire pit in your yard, drive a stake at the center of what will be the fire pit location.

Use marking paint tied to a string to draw a circle around the stake.

The diameter of the circle should be slightly larger than the outside dimensions of the fire pit ring you’re preparing to build.

For a square or rectangle fire pit, temporarily lay out the first layer of concrete blocks for your design on the ground and check the layout for the square. Use a shovel to outline the perimeter and then remove the blocks.

Remove the sod and dirt to a depth of about 7 inches from inside the perimeter that you marked. Keep the excavated area level as you work.

Pack the dirt solidly all the way around with a hand tamper.

If you are building your stone fire pit on top of an existing backyard patio, cement the first layer of blocks onto the patio to prevent shifting.

Build the Fire Pit Gravel Base

Adding gravel on top of the compacted dirt will create a base for your fire pit. Pour a generous amount of crushed gravel paver base into the hole so your finished

base will be approximately 5 inches thick. Wet the gravel thoroughly with a garden hose, and then use the hand tamper to compact it into a hard layer a couple of inches below the surface. Check the base at several points to be sure it is level and make adjustments where necessary.

Lay Out the Fire Pit

Lay out your first layer of blocks on top of the level gravel base. Be sure the sides of the blocks are touching.

Place the blocks one-by-one around the perimeter of the hole, pushing them together and using a level to make sure the height stays consistent.

If necessary, add leveling sand beneath low blocks or tap high blocks down with a rubber mallet to keep everything even.

After finishing the first row, check the layer in several places with a long level to be sure the structure is even.

Then, temporarily assemble the second level of blocks, making sure to stagger the joints between rows.

Test-Fit the Fire Pit Bowl

Bowls and insert rings come in several standard sizes, so make sure to choose the right one for the fire pit you’re planning to build.

After you’ve temporarily laid out the second row, test-fit the fire pit bowl to make sure the lip rests fully on the edge. Remove the bowl.

Adjust the positioning of the blocks if needed.

Add Construction Adhesive to the Blocks

Use construction adhesive between the layers of blocks to secure the concrete block pavers as you build the fire pit walls. Remove the second row of blocks that were temporarily placed.

Add beads of construction adhesive to the bottom layer to bond everything in place. Refit the second layer of blocks and continue the process for the third row of blocks. A fire pit typically has three or four rows of blocks. Repeat the test-fitting for each

layer before securing with adhesive. The bowl sits on top and can be removed for easy cleaning.

Tip: Refer to the label on your construction adhesive for the proper curing time. It can take between two and seven days for the material to dry, fully cure and be ready to handle the heat from your DIY firepit.

After you’ve learned how to build a fire pit, you can rent the soil compactor or tamper.

Visit www.homedepot.com/c/diy_projects_and_ideas to learn more.

HOMES

Recently Sold

This move-in ready expanded cape at 103 Yorkshire Dr. in the Radcliff Manor section of East Norwich sold on Jan. 18 for $660,000. It has four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The home is on an oversized lot with a lovely backyard, perfect for entertaining. The living and dining rooms are sunlit and have stunning hardwood floors. There is also a spacious sunroom with radiant heat flooring. There are two sizable bedrooms upstairs. The home has a new roof and updated windows. The basement is finished and is a perfect place for recreation, a playroom or a home office. This home is near Vernon School and is in close proximity to shopping, restaurants and historic parks. The home has town beach rights and offers dockage and moorings for additional fees.

HOME & DESIGN

Micromobility Injuries On The Rise

E-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards have grown in popularity among Americans in recent years, as a way to get to and from work or school, or for fun. A new report recently released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) finds that emergency room (ER)-treated injuries and deaths with these products are also increasing.

From 2017 to 2021, injuries spiked 127 percent to 77,200 for micromobility devices, and the number of deaths rose from 5 to 48. E-scooters had the highest percentage increase in injuries and accounted for 68 deaths in the same time period. Consumerowned e-scooters accounted for most ER visits (56 percent), but incidents involving rental e-scooter were not far behind (44 percent).

The top hazards in fatalities were incidents with motor vehicles and user-control issues, followed by fires. CPSC recommends these tips to prevent fires with these devices:

• Always be present when charging devices using lithium-ion batteries. Never charge them while sleeping.

• Only use the charger that came with your device.

• Only use an approved replacement battery pack.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper charging, and unplug the device when done.

This home at 146 Radcliff Dr. in East Norwich that sold on Jan. 19 for $560,000 is perfect for investors who are ready to give this home a little TLC. This lovely cape-style home is large enough for a growing family and has four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It has hardwood floors throughout and has a cedar closet in the upstairs bedroom. This home is on a large piece of property and has plenty of room for a backyard barbecue. It has a quaint patio off the back door. The single car garage has plenty of space. This home is located in the Oyster Bay School District.

• Never use an e-mobility device with a battery pack that has been modified/reworked by unqualified personnel or with re-purposed or used cells

• Never throw lithium batteries into the trash or general recycling. Take them to your local hazardous waste

collection center. Because collisions with motor vehicles and user-control issues are the most common hazards, CPSC urges consumers to:

• Always wear a bicycle helmet.

• Before riding, make sure to check for any damage, which includes examining the handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tires, cables and frame.

• See and be seen. Most deaths involve motor vehicles.

• Expect vehicle drivers and pedestrians not to see you; slow down and stay aware of your surroundings.

• Use the bell/horn to alert others.

• Do not make abrupt, unpredictable movements.

• Beware of obstacles. .

• Always keep both hands on the handlebars.

• Slow down and lean back when you have to ride over bumps.

• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Only one person per e-scooter.

• Follow all manufacturer directions.

• Report safety incidents or concerns with consumer products to CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov. Visit www.cpsc.gov to sign up for product recall information.

—U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

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.

Governor’s Proposed Increase To State Aid Is A Real And Refreshing Commitment To Helping Schools

By Regina McLean, President of the Port Washington Teachers Association; John Caulfield, President of the Levittown Teachers Association; and Matthew Adler, President of United Teachers of Seaford, on behalf of LongIslandTeachers.org representing over 100 Local Teachers Unions across Long Island.

Last week, New York Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled her 2023-24 budget for the state, which includes a record-breaking 10 percent increase in state aid to public schools. Of the $3.1 billion increase statewide, Long Island schools will realize an unprecedented increase in aid of approximately $775 million – and this comes on top of healthy aid increases in the previous two budget cycles.

The Governor’s proposed budget represents a truly historic investment in the intellectual infrastructure that is our public school system on Long Island.

This long overdue support package will help financially position our 121 local school districts throughout Long Island to meet the challenges of our times and our students’ educational and emotional needs.

Most significantly, the aid increase is a hopeful signal of a long-term shift in thinking in Albany – a recognition that the state was failing to adequately support school districts for far too long.

New York State has a long and unfortunate history of underfunding its public schools. For decades, Albany defied a court-ordered increase in Foundation Aid – and further cut school funding at that time through mechanisms such as GEA (Gap Elimination Aid). Districts found themselves tens of millions of dollars short of funding and were forced to burden their residents with dramatic property tax increases to pay for educational programs. With the implementation of the property tax cap beginning in 2012, school districts were financially hamstrung further in trying to meet the needs of students.

Through the advocacy and awareness-raising of educators across the state, from the New York State United Teachers down to local teacher unions, advances have been made recently to ensure Albany is meeting its constitutional responsibility for funding education. GEA was eliminated in 2016 and, as noted, the past few budget cycles have seen healthier increases in aid packages, highlighted by this year’s proposed 10 percent increase.

Governor Hochul’s promise could not have come at a more critical time as districts across Long Island work to meet the rising costs due to inflation, supply chain issues, and oil prices without sacrificing educational

programs in the classroom.

A few of the many potential benefits from the substantially increased state aid for schools include:

• Creating a plan to upgrade technological infrastructure after the COVID-19 pandemic revealed shortcomings and inequalities in many communities;

• Increasing mental health and wellness programs to support the emotional and social needs of students;

• Addressing learning loss and closing the achievement gap through high-impact tutoring and support programs;

• Enhancing career and technical educational offerings; and

• Expansion of Universal Pre-K programs. Our highest priority is preparing our students for success in the world, whether that means moving on to higher education or applying their knowledge, training, and skills in the workforce. That success begins with a high school diploma.

Despite the multi-year challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, high school graduation rates on Long Island far exceed the national average (92.6 percent in 2022 versus 88.6 percent) and fall high on statewide averages of 74 to 94 percent. We can only expect these rates to climb with the added support of state aid.

Over the past decade, our school districts on Long Island have been fortunate to enjoy the community’s overwhelming support as they have navigated annual school budgets through tax cap requirements. Budgets have been approved by the vast majority of voters every year, and the proposed increase in state aid from Albany will help districts across the Island maintain the support of their communities.

Local and statewide educator organizations have been waging a 30-year battle in Albany for adequate state funding for schools. The Governor’s proposed state aid package marks significant and substantial progress in that battle, as it recognizes the long-standing inequity in state funding.

Increased state aid is an investment in our children, our communities, and the future health of Long Island’s public school system. It is worthy of enthusiastic support from both sides of the aisle as the State Budget process moves ahead this spring.

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian Announces Stable Spirits Art Show And Auction Fundraiser

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, Inc. (www. pal-o-mine.org, Islandia, NY), a private, not for profit organization providing a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing for children and adults with disabilities, announced that it will hold an art show and auction on Thursday, May 4th, 2023 from 5:30 PM–8:30 PM at its facilities located at 829 Old Nichols Rd, Islandia, NY 11749. The Stable Spirits Art Show and Auction Fundraiser will feature the artwork of local artists of all ages and art mediums and styles. In addition to the art show and auction, the event will include a selection of wines from local vineyards paired with small bites by Sommelier Jun Xi Chen, assisted by restaurant professionals and fellow Culinary Institute of America graduate, Megan Henne. Event ticket prices are $60.

“We are very excited to give local artists an opportunity to show their work, while also helping Pal-O-Mine raise funds for our new 2,000 square foot educational center, which will expand our on-site therapy and vocational services,” said Pal-O-Mine founder and CEO Lisa Gatti. Under the guidance of Splashes of Hope artists, attendees will also participate in an interactive mural process creating art to hang in the new center.

For artists interested in participating, they can submit three to five pieces by completing a submission form and emailing images of their artwork. The deadline for all submissions is March 15, 2023. Artists will be notified of acceptance by email on March 17th, 2023. Artists must agree to donate 20 percent of each sale made at the event to Pal-O-Mine and donate one piece of art to Pal-O-Mine for use in future fundraisers.

Accepted artists will drop off their work at Pal-O-Mine on Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023 between 9 AM and 5 PM. Each artist will have space in one of Pal-O-Mine’s barn stalls to display their art. Tables and professional lighting will be provided for artists’ use during the event. Artists must bring any additional display materials they require (e.g., tablecloths, easels, display boards, etc.). Each piece should be priced between $200-$500.The art pick-up date is Friday, May 5th, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon. Sponsorships are available for the event and range from $10,000 for the DaVinci sponsorship and $5,00 for the Picasso sponsorship, to $3,500 for the Van Gogh sponsorship and $2,500 for the Matisse sponsorship. There is also a Paint sponsorship for $250.

For more information, contact: Tessa at 631-887-3751.

—Submitted by Pal-O-Mine

South Shore Audubon Society Offers Environmental Scholarships

The South Shore Audubon Society has begun accepting applications for two $1000 Environmental Scholarships. The scholarships will be awarded to college juniors, seniors, or graduate students earning a degree in areas of biological or environmental science, or sustainable and renewable energy .

For the Evelyn and Jerry Bishop Environmental Scholarship, applicants must be residents of one of the areas listed at www. ssaudubon.org/areas-we-serve.asp and/or attend a college in Nassau or Suffolk County.

For the Jay Koolpix, Environmental Scholarship, applicants must be residents of Nassau County and/or attend a college in Nassau or Suffolk County.

The deadline for submission of applications is May 31,2023. Completed applications include a brief explanation of the reason for applying for the scholarship and the plan to use the money, a copy of the most recent transcript of grades, and at least one letter of recommendation. Applicants may apply

for both scholarships but cannot be awarded more than one.

For applications and more information, go to www.ssaudubon.org/ or contact Betsy

Gulotta eagulotta@optonline.net, or Betty Borowsky, bborow@optonline.net.

—Submitted by South Shore Audubon Society

Experience

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Visit 1,000 Museums Free Supporting members ( $150) enjoy admission privileges while they travel and VIP invitations while they’re here. Visit NARMassociation.org to see participating museums

Purchase a Membership Scan code, visit the museum, or go online to NassauMuseum.org

SEE IT NOW

PHOTOGRAPHY’S MOMENT

NOWTHROUGHMARCH 5

Open Tuesday-Sunday 11 am-4:45 pm

WORD FIND

HOROSCOPES By Holiday Mathis

HOROSCOPES By

HOROSCOPES By

Holiday Mathis

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have pleted the puzzle, there will be 16 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Not every action you take needs to be a play for the win. is game is long. Some moves are meant to get you to the next move, and that is enough. What’s important is that you get some momentum. And if you don’t know what’s next, don’t worry. You’ll get your best ideas when you’re already in motion.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Restlessness is an uncomfortable state and not one to dwell in. You can take the agitation as a signal to move you quickly to the next thing or, if it’s clear that you cannot or should not go yet, ask your restlessness to lead you to tap deeper reasons and purposes for being where you are.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). When you need things too much, it’s miserable not to have them. It is a free and easy feeling to have that which you enjoy but you do not need. You raise your happiness by lowering your reliance on certain comforts. You may go stoically without things just to prove to yourself your own independence and strength.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). is week brings more than one situation akin to a split screen. You’re like a security o cer in a high room, monitoring the mundane. Sure, you can pay attention to several things at once, if most of it is going to plan. Part of your brain will be scanning for anything out of the ordinary. You’ll nd it, too.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Language is a tool. Every tool is con ned to the limit of its ability. A hammer can’t saw, and a screwdriver isn’t great for cutting paper. is week, you will wisely recognize that there are things that can’t be accomplished with words, an acknowledgement that helps you switch to di erent modes and tools.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). e easiest way to get lled with wonder is to be somewhere new. Is the world very di erent just because you go to new places? You are very di erent in new places, and you carry that di erence around and back home again. So, yes, the world changes when you travel, and you’re right to make it a priority now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). As you live by what you see as virtuous and relevant, you spend your days thinking about and acting toward what you value. If you add self-compassion to the equation, it’s an unworried and unhurried existence because it doesn’t require you to meet any standard outside yourself.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). ough you know things outside of you cannot provide you with ultimate happiness,the world counteracts with strong and constant messages to the contrary, mostly to get you to buy things. It brings you good fortune to calm your inner perceptions and reactions. You will achieve e ective and joyful states.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ll answer a calling. You’ll know where you belong and how to get there. It doesn’t make a lot of sense to travel in the herd. e herd only goes where the herd is going. You’re going somewhere else. Plot your course and then choose your guides, but give yourself exibility by traveling solo or in a very small group.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Boredom is an invitation from the universe to gure out what exactly is keeping you where you are. Is it an emotional tether or a contractual chain? A family obligation or a social expectation? is week brings a chance to wiggle, maneuver, buy or y your way out. Once free, there’s no shortage of things to do.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Often when you talk about experiences, you realize they cannot properly be recounted with words. is is part of what drives you to keep creating new experiences with people. e only thing better than telling the story is living it. You’ll be very fortunate in your dreaming, scheming and planning.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). If you had no concern for the future, you would be unable to set yourself up for good tomorrows. When stressful thoughts come up, thank your inner worrier, then decide if it brings up anything actionable. If so, you’ll act immediately. If not, you’ll change your focus to what you want and move right along.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAY

It seems logical that happiness, like other states of mind, could be achieved through a process that, once learned, could always be recreated. Not so. Happiness is a shape-shifter who never takes the same form twice. And so, this year is an adventure in which happiness greets you in new and exciting incarnations. You’ll challenge yourself to achieve a physical or mental goal, and new people come onto your scene to help with it. More highlights: You’ll invest in yourself and your team and enjoy building together. Your loyalty will be rewarded. You’ll accept an honor.

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

Puppy love

Solution: 16 Letters

WORD FIND

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 16 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Puppy love

Solution: 16 Letters

Active Affenpinscher

Afghan Akita Alert

Bark

Beagle

Bichon frise

Briard

Chinese crested

Coat

Corgi

Digging

Dogs Family

Fearless Guide

Intelligent

Kennel

Litter

Love Loyal

Mongrel Nose

Papillon

Pets

Pharaoh hound

Playful

Poodle

Protect Pugs

Puppy Ridgeback

Skye

Spaniel

Toys

Yelp

FROM KING FEATURES SYNDICATE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 41st FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019

Solution: Sizes run the gamut

Solution: Sizes run the gamut

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. 236

Creators Syndicate

Date: 3/1/23 Creators Syndicate 737 3rd Street Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 info@creators.com

CONTRACT BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER

FOR RELEASE SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2023

737 3rd Street Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 info@creators.com

CONTRACT BRIDGE

A deducible deduction

Date: 3/1/23

By Steve Becker

the ace. East returned the ten of hearts, covered by the Q-K-A. South later lost a heart and a club, and so went down one.

On the surface, it seems that South did nothing wrong. He had four losers, and he lost them. But it is not that cut-and-dried. The fact is that South missed his cue when he covered East’s ten of hearts with the queen. He should have played the six instead!

Undoubtedly, he played the queen in the hope of finding East with the king. However, this was not a realistic view, since the defenders could have arranged for West to be on lead at trick three instead of East and would have done so if East had had the king of hearts. Their plays clearly indicated that West had the king.

The most difficult part of declarer play is to determine how the defenders’ cards are divided and where specific key cards are located. Fortunately, there are clues in almost every hand that should enable declarer to attain the best result possible if he puts forth a maximum effort.

Consider this case where South failed to take advantage of a significant clue. West led the king of diamonds, which held, and continued with the ten, won by East with

Tomorrow:

Had South played the six on the ten, he could have made the contract by taking the ace, drawing trump, ruffing a diamond in dummy, cashing the A-K of clubs and then leading a heart to the queen.

West would take the king, but, with only hearts and diamonds left, he would be forced to return one or the other. This would allow declarer to ruff in dummy while discarding his remaining club, and the seemingly unmakeable contract would come sailing home.

Weekly Sudoku Puzzle

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

Answer to last issue’s Sudoku Puzzle

Answer to last issue’s Crossword Puzzle

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EMPLOYMENT

Administrative Openings Monticello Central School School Building Principal (2 positions) The Monticello CSD is seeking forward thinking and dynamic School Building

Principals who can lead MCSD’s highly engaged faculty, staff, parents, students and community. The successful candidate will have a vision of educational excellence, be highly motivated and demonstrate the ability to impact student learning. Starting salary: $125,000, commensurate with experience. NYS SDA/SDL/SBL Certification

Required plus 2 yrs. of previous administrative leadership and 5 yrs. exp. as a classroom teacher preferred. Please apply online by March 5th at https://monticelloschools. tedk12.com/hire EOE

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM!

Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.

The New York Press Association, the trade association for newspapers in New York, is seeking a talented college creator to be our chief TikTok officer for the summer.

The internship will pay a net ta e home stipend of 6 and wee ly schedules wor hours are negotiable.

We are seeking a candidate who uses the app daily and understands what resonates. nterested candidates should send a letter of interest to doug nynewspapers.com e plaining their ualifications and e pertise. nclude the name of the college you attend, e pected year of graduation, and the names of three references at least one of whom is one of your professors or instructors. ttaching sample videos encouraged.

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LEGAL NOTICE

Hakimian Trading LLC filed w/ SSNY on 1/04/23. Office: Nassau Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: REPUBLIC REGISTERED AGENT SERVICES

INC. 600 BROADWAY STE 200, ALBANY, NY, 12207.

Purpose: any lawful. 3-15-8-1; 2-22-15-8-20236T-#238491-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff - against - MISHEL HAJIBAY PIRANESI, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on July 25, 2016. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501

“Rain or Shine” on the 15th day of March, 2023 at 2:30 PM. All those four (4) certain plots, pieces or parcels of land, with the building situate, lying and being at Great Neck, in the Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.

Premises known as 12 Grenwolde Drive, Great Neck (Kings Point), NY 11024.

(Section: 1, Block: 30, Lots: 13, 15, 16 & 17) Approximate amount of lien $4,455,782.64 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 010124/09. George Esernio, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

420 Lexington Avenue, Suite

840 New York, NY 10170

Tel. 347/286-7409

Dated: January 16, 2023

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

3-8-1; 2-22-15-2023-4T#238644-GN

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Mehdi Gabyzadeh a/k/a Mehdi Gabayzadeh; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 21, 2019 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 March 21, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 5 Pheasant Run, Kings Point, NY 11024. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Kings Point, New York, in the Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 1 Block 178 Lot 48. Approximate amount of judgment

$2,848,401.13 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 003161/2007. 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.”

Malachy Lyons, Jr., Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: January 25, 2023

3-8-1; 2-22-15-2023-4T#238616-GN

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. HOOMAN ENAYATIAN, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Reforming Mortgage, Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 19, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 21, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 2 Breuer Avenue, Great Neck, NY 11023. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Great Neck, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 1, Block 99 and Lots 105 and 106. Approximate amount of judgment is $483,344.21 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provi-

LEGAL NOTICES

sions of filed Judgment Index #14541/2013. Cash will not be accepted. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Richard Langone, Esq., Referee Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523, Attorneys for Plaintiff

3-8-1; 2-22-15-2023-4T#238658-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY

CAPITAL ONE, N.A., Plaintiff against ANGEL SABI, et al

Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., Woodbridge Corporation Plaza, 485B Route 1 South, Suite 330, Iselin, NJ 08830.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered June 27, 2017, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 28, 2023 at 2:30 PM. Premises known as 10 Crickett Lane a/k/a 10 Cricket Lane, Great Neck a/k/a Kings Point, NY 11024. Sec 1 Block 175 Lot 47. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Incorporated Village of Kings Point, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $662,166.85 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 006337/2016.

During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

William J. Birney, Esq.,

Referee NY-62200011-16

3-15-8-1; 2-22-2023-4T-

#238870-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

Citibank, N.A. as Successor

Trustee to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, for MASTR Alternative Loan Trust 2006-1, Plaintiff AGAINST Shahin Rahimian; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 6, 2017 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 March 28, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 6 Franklin Road, Great Neck, NY 11024. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Great Neck, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section: 1 Block: 81 Lot: 189. Approximate amount of judgment $840,930.14 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 014951/2012. 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.”

Anthony Russo, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: February 9, 2023

3-15-8-1; 2-22-2023-4T#238869-GN

proach to managing programs and providing services for the upcoming year. The Annual Plan serves as the annual application for grants to support improvements to public housing buildings (Capital Fund Program) and provide a summary of the activities the PHA plans to pursue in the FY 2023 fiscal year. Residents of public housing and members of the public are welcome. Persons wishing to speak will be limited to five (5) minutes each and a sign-up sheet for speakers will be available at the start of the public hearing. The Village of Great Neck Housing Authority does not discriminate because of disability, color, sex, religion, national origin, family status or race. Provisions will be made for persons with disabilities to ensure their full participation in the public hearing if they so choose. Request for any Reasonable Accommodation must be made in advance by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. If you are unable to attend, or request a reasonable accommodation, please call 516-482-2727 and give your name and email address (please do not leave a message), in order for us to send zoom coordinates. A DRAFT of the FY 2023 Annual Plan is available at the Housing Authority Main Office at same and on the Housing Authority website at VOGNHA.org.

3-1; 2-22-2023-2T-#238946GN

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matters:

Agency: Board of Trustees, Village of Great Neck Estates

Date: March 13, 2023

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Place: Village Hall, Atwater Plaza, 4 Gateway Drive, Great Neck Estates, New York

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF NOMINATIONS FOR VILLAGE ELECTION VILLAGE

OF

GREAT NECK ESTATES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that the general election of the Village of Great Neck Estates will be held on March 21, 2023, at the Great Neck Estates Village Hall, Atwater Plaza, 4 Gateway Drive, Great Neck Estates, New York. Polls will open at Noon, and remain open continuously thereafter until 9 p.m., at which time they will close. The offices and terms to be filled at such election are as follows:

One (1) Mayor, for a term of four (4) years

Two (2) Trustees, for terms of four (4) years each One (1) Village Justice, for a term of four (4) years

The following are the names and addresses of the persons who have been duly nominated in accordance with the provisions of the Election Law:

For Mayor (4 years):

William D. Warner, 7 Myrtle Drive, Great Neck Estates, NY

For Trustee (4) years: Jeffrey Farkas, 68 Clover Drive, Great Neck Estates, NY

Ira D. Ganzfried, 160 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck Estates, NY

For Village Justice (4) years:

Andrew D Greene, Esq. 62 Maple Dr, Great Neck Estates, NY BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Kathleen L Santelli

Village

Administrator

NOTIFICACIÓN DE NOMINACIONES PARA LA ELECCIÓN MUNICIPAL CIUDAD DE GREAT NECK ESTATES

seguirán abiertas de forma continua hasta las 9 p. m., momento en que cerrarán. Los siguientes son los cargos y períodos por cubrir en dicha elección:

Un Alcade por un mandato de cuatro (4) anos

Dos (2) consejeros administrativos por un período de cuatro (4) años cada uno

Un Juiz de Aldea por un period de cuatro (4) anos

Los siguientes son los nombres y domicilios de las personas que han quedado debidamente notificadas conforme a las disposiciones de la Ley

Electoral:

Para los (4) años de consejero administrativo:

For Mayor (4 years): William D. Warner, 7 Myrtle Drive, Great Neck Estates, NY

For Trustee (4) years: Jeffrey Farkas, 68 Clover Drive, Great Neck Estates, NY

Ira D. Ganzfried, 160 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck Estates, NY

For Village Justice (4) years: Andrew D Greene, Esq. 62 Maple Dr, Great Neck Estates, NY

POR ORDEN DEL CONSEJO ADMINISTRATIVO

Kathleen L Santelli Administradora Municipal 3-1-2023-1T-#239421-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Village of Great Neck Plaza will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 7:00 PM at the Village Hall, Two Gussack Plaza, Great Neck, New York to consider a Conditional Use Permit for Andy Yu to operate a Bubble Tea Shop to be known as Kung Fu Tea, located at 10 Grace Ave.,.Great Neck.

LEGAL NOTICE

The Village of Great Neck Housing Authority Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce a public hearing in conformance with Section 511 of the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act (QHWRA) of 1998. The public hearing will be held Monday, March 27 th 2023 at 4:00pm at The Village of Great Neck Housing Authority located at 700 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck, NY 11023. The subject of the hearing will be the Public Housing FY 2023 Annual Plan and FY (2020-2024) Five-Year Plan. The Five Year Plan describes the mission of the agency and the agency’s longrange goals and objectives for achieving its mission over a five-year period, and their ap-

Subject: Proposed contract with Vigilant Engine Hook & Ladder Co., Inc. for fire protection and emergency ambulance service for the period January 1, 2023 through and including December 31, 2023.

Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.

All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, 4 Gateway Drive, Great Neck Estates, New York, during regular business hours.

Dated: February 14, 2023

BY ORDER OF THE

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Kathleen L. Santelli, Village Administrator

3-1-2023-1T-#238990-GN

POR LA PRESENTE, SE NOTIFICA que la elección general de la ciudad de Great Neck Estates se celebrará el 21 Marzo 2023 en Great Neck Estates Village Hall (Municipalidad de Great Neck Estates), Atwater Plaza, 4 Gateway Drive, Great Neck Estates, Nueva York. Las urnas se abrirán al mediodía y

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that all persons interested in this matter will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public meeting. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES VILLAGE OF GREAT NECK PLAZA

Ted Rosen, Mayor Patricia O’Byme, Clerk-Treasurer 3-1-2023-1T-#239369-GN

NSTV Airs New Program In Northwell Health Lecture Series

“The Ins & Outs of Joint Replacement Surgery”

North Shore TV will air a new program in the Northwell Health Lecture Series: “The Ins & Outs of Joint Replacement Surgery”, hosted by Dr. Sreevathsa

Boraiah, Associate Professor, Department of Orthopedics,

Northwell Health. It appears on Channels 20, Optimum and 37 Fios on Wednesdays at 12 p.m. and on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m., starting on Wednesday, March 1, 2023.

This informative program demonstrates the latest techniques

and information on Joint Replacement Surgery. “The Ins & Outs of Joint Replacement Surgery” is the latest program in this series created by North Shore TV in partnership with Northwell Health to bring health information to the

community. You can view all the programs created for the Northwell Health Lecture Series via our YouTube Channel: nstvlongisland. For further information check our website at nstv.org

—Submitted by North Shore TV

Youth Basketball Team Goes To Playoffs

The CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) St. Aloysius fifth grade boys basketball B team concluded their preliminary season as shining champions. The team ended their regular season with a record of 8-2. This exceptional record brought them to the playoffs, standing at first place in their division. Being that this is the team’s first year playing together, this is an outstanding achievement for the players and coaches.

The team’s success can be traced back to long-time CYO basketball coach, Yosi Soleimany, who is beyond proud of his team.

“This is my eleventh year coach-

ing and I have never seen a group of boys come together so quickly,” said Coach Soleimany.

Along with head Coach Soleimany, his son Justin, an experienced athlete in the boys CYO basketball program, helped guide the team through their winning season.

Furthermore, the players this season were extraordinarily talented and unified. Star-studded players such as Ryan Soleimany, RJ DeRose, and Jayden Kim showed off their skills by snatching rebounds from the opposing players. Jonathan Yakubov and Bryce Hakimi excelled in their positions

as point guards and ruthlessly ran the offense. Evan Bachrach and Jonah Fisher heavily contributed to the overall team through their supportive roles as shooting guard and provided valuable minutes. Also essential to the team’s success, Quentin Chong and Orel Kahan shut down opposing teams with their positions as shooting guards. Coach Soleimany concluded by stating, “This is their first year playing together and I am amazed at their level of teamwork. I am so proud of my team and I am excited to see where this journey takes us”.

—Written by Daniella Nissim

Dr. Sreevathsa Boraiah, Orthopedic Surgeon, Northwell Health (Contributed photo)

Fifth grade boys basketball B team (Contributed photo)

Town To Host First 2023 S.T.O.P. Event

North Hempstead Town Supervisor

Jennifer DeSena and the Town Board

remind residents that the first Stop Throwing Out Pollutants (S.T.O.P.) event of 2023 will be held on Saturday, March 18 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at North Hempstead Beach Park’s North Lot.

“Improperly disposing of dangerous chemical wastes could potentially contaminate our water supply, so programs like S.T.O.P. are essential to continue to ensure the Town and our residents are responsible environmental stewards,” Supervisor DeSena said. “I’m proud that the Town will once again offer this amazing program that offers our residents a safe, convenient, and environmentally sound method of disposing their hazardous household waste.”

The S.T.O.P. program offers Town of North Hempstead residents the opportunity to dispose of dangerous and chemical wastes that are too dangerous to dispose of with routine curbside pickups. Residents can return items such as aerosols, household chemicals, pesticides, disinfectants, fertilizers, bulbs, thermostats, rechargeable and lithium batteries, TV’s and computers. Latex and water-based paints, once dried out (usually 24-36 hours after the lid is removed) can be placed in a trash bag and thrown out with your regular household

garbage. Latex and water-based paints will not be accepted at the S.T.O.P. collection site. Oil-based paints, on the other hand, are considered hazardous, and will be accepted at any S.T.O.P. program.

Residents may also bring their sensitive documents to the S.T.O.P. event for proper shredding and destruction to prevent identity theft. Any documents brought will be shredded on site by a document shredding company. There is a limit of 6 “Bankers Box” sized boxes or bags of paper per car, per day. Every 2,000 pounds of paper the Town recycles equates to 17 trees saved.

Pharmaceuticals will not be accepted at S.T.O.P. events. However the Town will be collecting pharmaceuticals at several special events throughout the year. Please continue to check the Town’s website and social media pages for the latest information.

The S.T.O.P. events will also have a clothing donation area. Gently used and working clothes, stuffed animals, electronics, toys, sporting equipment, shoes, books, small area rugs, bikes, scooters, luggage, picture frames, table lamps, bolts of fabric, silverware, glassware, dishes, and cosmetics will be collected.

Participants must be residents of North Hempstead (no commercial vehicles will allowed) and need to show a driver’s license

or other valid proof of residency. Only potentially hazardous household products and e-waste will be accepted. For safety reasons, residents also must remain in their vehicle while event staff removes items to be discarded. Please also leave pets at home so staff can safely remove items from your vehicle.

Additional S.T.O.P. programs will be held throughout 2023 including: Saturday, June 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Westbury High School, Saturday, September 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at North Hempstead Beach Park (North Lot), and Sunday, November 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at North Hempstead Beach Park (North Lot).

For more information on the S.T.O.P. program, please call 311 or 516-869-6311 or visit northhempsteadny.gov/stopprogram

—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead

ARE YOU MOVING?

$2600

The Village of Great Neck Housing Authority Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce a public hearing in conformance with Section 511 of the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act (QHWRA) of 1998. The public hearing will be held Monday, March 27th 2023 at 4:00pm at The Village of Great Neck Housing Authority located at 700 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck, NY 11023. The subject of the hearing will be the Public Housing FY 2023 Annual Plan and FY (2020-2024) FiveYear Plan. The Five Year Plan describes the mission of the agency and the agency’s long-range goals and objectives for achieving its mission over a ve-year period, and their approach to managing programs and providing services for the upcoming year. The Annual Plan serves as the annual application for grants to support improvements to public housing buildings (Capital Fund Program) and provide a summary of the activities the PHA plans to pursue in the FY 2023 scal year. Residents of public housing and members of the public are welcome. Persons wishing to speak will be limited to ve (5) minutes each and a sign-up sheet for speakers will be available at the start of the public hearing. The Village of Great Neck Housing Authority does not discriminate because of disability, color, sex, religion, national origin, family status or race. Provisions will be made for persons with disabilities to ensure their full participation in the public hearing if they so choose. Request for any Reasonable Accommodation must be made in advance by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. If you are unable to attend, or request a reasonable accommodation, please call 516-482-2727 and give your name and email address (please do not leave a message), in order for us to send zoom coordinates. A DRAFT of the FY 2023 Annual Plan is available at the Housing Authority Main O ce at same and on the Housing Authority website at VOGNHA.org

SCHOOL NEWS

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP FINALISTS

Twenty-six students from the Great Neck Public Schools who were previously named Semifinalists will advance as Finalists in the prestigious 2023 National Merit Scholarship Competition (NMSC).

Finalists from John L. Miller North High School are: Joy Huang, Danielle Kobrick, Benjamin Souferian, Shuyuan (Julie) Sun, and Katharine Tang.

Finalists from William A. Shine Great Neck South High School are: Ryan Chen, Claudia Cheng, Brayden Chien, Justin Choi, Spencer Hom, Charles Huang, Edward Huang, Alok Karkare, Drew Kim, Sooah Kwak, Sebastian Lennox, Kanheng (Martin) Lin, Sophia Liu, Emma Maliar, Riya Mitra, Amit Saha, Amber Sun, Ashley

Wu, Joy Yang, Dayoung Yu, and Richard Zhuang.

PSAT scores for these students were among the highest in the state and their scores on a second examination were as good or better. Having demonstrated exemplary academic performance throughout high school, these students were fully endorsed and recommended by their high school principals. Each student also furnished biographical data and a self-description of interests, activities, accomplishments, and goals. All Finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships to be offered in 2023.

—Submitted by the Great Neck Public School District

SOUTH HIGH TAKES SECOND PLACE AT REGIONAL SCIENCE BOWL

A five-member team from South High School came in second place at the 2023 Long Island Regional High School Science Bowl, hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory on Feb. 3. The team’s faculty advisor is

science teacher Dr. James Truglio. South High has consistently placed in the top three at this regional event since 2015.

—Submitted by the Great Neck Public School District

SADDLE ROCK READ-A-THON SUPPORTS RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE

For the twelfth consecutive year, fifthgrade classes at Saddle Rock School participated in a read-a-thon throughout the month of January to support the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island. This year, students read 118,598 pages and raised more than $6,200. On Feb. 10, fifth-grade classes gathered together for a closing ceremony to celebrate the students’ reading accomplishments and present their donation to representatives from the Ronald McDonald House.

The annual read-a-thon is part of a service learning partnership between Saddle Rock School and the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island, located in New Hyde Park. Each year, fifth-grade classes meet with volunteers to learn about services that the organization provides for families of young patients in need of medical care. Students and teachers then develop creative ways to show their support for families staying at the House.

—Submitted by the Great Neck Public School District Saddle Rock fifth graders participated in a month-long read-a-thon in January.

In December, fifth-grade classes visited the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park to learn about the facility and the services provided for families of young patients in need of medical care.

During a closing ceremony on Feb. 10, fifth-grade classes celebrated the students’ reading accomplishments and presented their donation to representatives from the Ronald McDonald House. (Contributed photos)

Team members, from the left: Erin Wong, Laura Zhang, Richard Zhuang, Brandon Kim, and Eric Pei. (Photo credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory)