Bethpage Newsgram (6/21/24)

SERVING BETHPAGE, OLD BETHPAGE, AND PLAINVIEW

Bethpage High holds early graduation for two

The first two graduates of Bethpage High School Class of 2024, Joy Kim and Devyn Hailey Sparke, hold their diplomas following their special graduation ceremony. Photo courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

Bethpage High School has announced the first two graduates of the Class of 2024 — Joy Kim and Devyn Hailey Sparke.

Both students graduated early in a special ceremony, a week ahead of their classmates, to accommodate their exciting next steps: Kim will

be attending the United States Air Force Academy, and Sparke is headed to the United States Naval Academy. Both students will begin their service immediately, preventing them from attending their class’ regular graduation ceremony.

The celebration featured

inspiring speeches from senior class President Daniela Cross, Student Council President Ellie Park, valedictorian Zoe Chinda, salutatorian Ryan O’Connell, Principal Mr. Nicholas Jantz, and Superintendent of Schools Mr. David Schneider. The

The Bethpage Newsgram is published every Friday by Litmor Publishing Corp.

“Shootout for Soldiers” lacrosse marathon to support vets

The Town of Oyster Bay will host the 10th Annual “Shootout for Soldiers” 24-Hour Lacrosse Benefit Game at the Town of Oyster Bay’s John J. Burns Park, located on Merrick Road in Massapequa. This year’s event begins on Thursday, July 11, at 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and continues on July 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event benefits veterans and active duty military personnel. The Long Island Air Force Association will conduct a special ceremony on July 12 at 11:00 a.m. to honor hometown Vietnam War veterans and present them with medals that commemorate their service to our nation. There will be a parachute landing on the field conducted by the “All Veterans Group,” which will deliver the offi-

cial ball on Friday at 6 p.m. Supervisor Saladino stated, “Shootout for Soldiers is a wonderful event that provides local lacrosse players a chance to enjoy a sport they love in a unique way while also raising charitable funds to support the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Whether you enjoy lacrosse or are just looking for a fun-family event, I invite residents to be a part of the festivities.”

The charitable funds raised at Shootout for Soldiers will benefit the Team RWB, the Long Island Air Force Association, Strongpoint Theinert Ranch, and The Warrior Ranch Foundation.

The event features 24 1-hour

See page 10 See page 10

Periodical Postage paid at Hicksville, N.Y. 11801 Telephone 931-0012 - USPS 3467-68. Postmaster: Send Address Change to: The Bethpage Newsgram, 821 Franklin Ave., Suite 208, Garden City, N.Y. 11530 • Meg Norris Publisher

Teen injured in Hicksville dirt bike crash

A 15 year-old boy was injured when the off-road motorcycle that he was riding collided with a 2009 Honda while headed southbound on Jerusalem Avenue near Spindle Road. After striking the Honda, the teen slid under a 2011 Nissan, and became trapped there.

Officers from the Nassau County Police Department removed the teen from under the vehicle

and transported him to a nearby hospital for assessment and treatment. The teen was listed in stable condition.

The drivers of both vehicles stayed on the scene and were not injured.

The Nassau County Police reminded residents that off-road motorcycles are not allowed on public roadways.

Students shine at NYS Portfolio Project

Affordable summer camp at Boys & Girls Club

Are you ready for an unforgettable summer? Look no further!

The Hicksville Boys & Girls Club is thrilled to announce our Low-Cost Summer Camp Program, designed specifically for middle and high school students. With a diverse range of activities and trips, our camp promises a season of excitement and learning at an unbeatable price.

The program is not just a camp; it’s a journey into the heart of fun and camaraderie. The Boys & Girls Club offers a variety of activities that cater to every interest. From sports clinics and art workshops to science experiments and outdoor expeditions, campers will have the opportunity to explore new hobbies

experienced staff is dedicated to providing a secure and supportive environment. The club maintains a low camper-to-staff ratio to ensure personalized attention and care.

The summer camp is not just affordable; it’s an investment in your child’s future. For the entire summer, your child can enjoy this enriching experience for only $100, with all activities included (trips are individually priced at the lowest cost possible). Plus, the club offers scholarships and payment plans to ensure that every child has the chance to join in the fun.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Enroll now and let the

Fifteen talented students from Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School's art department, under the guidance of art teachers Kelly Verdi and Linda Curran, participated in the New York State Portfolio Project, showcasing their remarkable artistic abilities on May 11. All 15 students achieved the highest adjudication level of "Distinguished," with several receiving the State's rare “Perfect Score.”

The distinguished students are:

Ella Berko, *Ines Cardoso, *Erin Donovan, Abigail Goldblatt, Becka Hitsky, Dahlia Kron, Emma Leibowitz, *Claire Lim, Alexis Mauer, *Diana Parrino, *Samantha Peace, Isabella Phass, Eric Ronen, Brooke Selmer and Samantha Witz. *denotes Perfect Score

Additionally, many of these student artists volunteered to pilot the NYS IAAP model of the new Portfolio 2.0, which has been realigned to meet the updated NYS standards. This beta test

provided invaluable real-time feedback and experience to the NYS portfolio committee, aiding in refining the pro gram before its statewide rollout for all K–12 students in fall 2024. “Our stu dents' contributions were praised by educators and artists across the state for their insightful feedback and intel lectual engagement,” said Curran.

Each participating student will have a piece showcased in the Nassau region's virtual show, opening at the end of the 2023–2024 school year. Furthermore, three seniors and five juniors are now eligible to apply for the State portfo lio scholarship due to their exceptional performance at this event.

“We are incredibly proud of these young artists and their accomplish ments," said Verdi. "Their dedication and hard work have not only brought them individual accolades but have also contributed significantly to the future of arts education in New York State."

O u r t e a m i

O u r t e a m i s e a g e r t o g i v e y o u t h e k i n d

o f e y e - c a t c h i n g s m i l e t h a t c r e a t e s a l l

o f e y e - c a t c h i n g s m i l e t h a t c

t h e c o n f i d e n c e y o u n e e d t o p u r s u e y o u r

g o a l s a n d m a k e y o u r d r e a m s a r e a l i t y .

C o m p l e t e S m i l e M a k e o v e r s

g e s

D e n t a l C r o w n s & B r i d g e s

E m e r g e n c y D e n t i s t r y , N i t r o u s O x i d e , I V S e d a t i o n & m u c h m o r e

E m e r g e n c y D e n t i s t r y , N i t r o u s O x i d e , I V S e d a t i o n & m u c h m o r e

W E A C C E

o a l s a n d m a k e y o u r d r e a m s a r e a l i t y W E A C C E P T A L L M A J O R

This program is open to all Middle School and High School students

For more information call 516822-7594 and to register, please visit //www.hycbgc.com/ or contact the club's office. Spaces are limited, so

Dentistry

Art students from Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School participated in the New York State Portfolio Project, with several receiving perfect scores.

Photo courtesy of Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District

Music honor society presents year-end concert

Senior class members of Bethpage High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society.

On Thursday, June 6, members of Bethpage High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society presented an evening of musical numbers in their end-of-theyear recital.

The program was as follows:

• Ava Mirabelli, Giulia Zingone, Samantha Harold – “I Didn’t Plan It” from Waitress

• Madison Guevara, Jennifer Lee

– “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, Elvis Presley

• Joanna Scharen, Ashdon Chadwick – “The Thrill of First Love” from March of the Falsettos

• Katy Sfeir, Sarah Oh, Madison Guevara, Ava Morgan – “Quartet K. 156 Menuet”, Mozart

• Matthew Schneider, Samantha Ocasio, Ryan O’Connell – “Quilt of Ice”, Matthew Schneider

• Ben Maciel-Seidman, Payton Morgan – “The Music Box”

• Araya Kaur, Anjali Ponugupati –“Bella Ciao”, Fabio Eduardo de Oliveiro

• Matthew Schneider – “Fives”, Guthrie Govan

• Kaitlyn Kistoo, Sasha Jacob, Laasya Marada – “Two Part Invention”, JS Bach

• Elizabeth Thomas, Grace Cho –“Creep” by Radiohead

• Jackson Boyle – “Pathetique”, Beethoven

• Joshita Singh, Elizabeth Thomas –Theme from “Up”

• Matthew and Amanda Schneider – “Man or Muppet” from “The Muppet Movie”

• Nicholas and Payton Morgan –“Menuet”, Sylvius

• Elizabeth Hoffner, Danielle Betwinek, Elizabeth Thomas, Amanda Schneider, Allyson Yalbuzdag – “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”, Tchaikovsky

• Members of the BHS Jazz Ensemble – “Careless Whisper”, Wham

The Tri-M Music Honor Society is a program of the National Association for Music Education, which focuses on creating future leaders in music education and music advocacy. Sasha Jacob served as the emcee.

Photos courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

Eisenhower Park 1899 Park Blvd East Meadow, NY 11554 Whitney Pond Park 133 Valley Road Manhasset, NY 11030

Park 33-00 215th Place Bayside, NY 11361

Center Boulevard School celebrates Flag Day with tribute

Students of Center Boulevard School celebrate Flag Day at a patriotic assembly.

Center Boulevard School in the Bethpage School District marked Flag Day with a moving and patriotic assembly held in front of the school, bringing together students, staff, and community members in a heartfelt celebration of our nation’s flag.

As attendees arrived, they were greeted by the uplifting sounds of the school band, which played a selection of patriotic songs, ranging from “My Country Tis of Thee” to the soulful “Kum Ba Yah.”

The assembly commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment that unified everyone in attendance in a collective display of respect for the flag and what it represents. This was followed by an informative reading about the origins of Flag Day.

A particularly poignant part of the assembly was the recognition of veterans in attendance, all of whom were relatives of CBS students. Each veteran was intro-

duced by their family member, creating a personal and touching tribute. The veterans were then thanked for their service, eliciting heartfelt applause and appreciation from the crowd. This segment of the program underscored the deep connections between the school community and those who have served our country, adding a layer of personal meaning to the day’s celebrations.

Following the honoring of the veterans, the entire student body came together to sing “Proud to be an American” by Lee Greenwood. The collective voices of the students resonated with pride and patriotism.

The Flag Day celebration at Center Boulevard School was a beautiful and stirring event, reflecting the school’s commitment to honoring the flag and the values it represents.

Photos courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

We proudly present the Green Vale Class of 2024. Their remarkable academic accomplishments, coupled with their unwavering character and dedication to their passions, have garnered acceptances from some of the country’s most prestigious secondary schools. As they embark on this new chapter, these graduates follow in the footsteps of countless alumni devoted to making a positive impact on the world.

We congratulate you.

A. | Dylan A. | Lana A. | Ian B. | Madelyn C. | Julian D. | Lily D.

M. | Oliver M. | Hailey M. | Dylan M. | Shane M. | William M.

Q. | Jordan R. | Jackie S. | Christopher V. | Janis V. | Henry W.

HIGH SCHOOLS FOR 2024 GRADUATES

Chaminade High School

Friends Academy

The Hotchkiss School

Levittown High School

Manhasset High School

Pomfret School

Sacred Heart

Taft School

Westbury High School

Caspar

Shayla D. | Lilly K. | Nailah K. | Evan L. | Olivia L. | Alexa L. | Christopher M.

Sarah

Annabelle

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN

NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

STEVE ISRAEL FORMER CONGRESSMAN

PRESENTS

JUNE

28TH & 29TH

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY IN BROOKVILLE

Keynote by best-selling historian ERIK LARSON and many more author panels on Saturday, June 29th.

JUNE 30TH

DOWNTOWN OYSTER BAY

ENJOY Marketplace, Kids’ Activities, More Authors in Oyster Bay’s Downtown with many wonderful local businesses!

“Celebrate literature and Long Island at the Gold Coast Book Fair!”

Levittown’s Terrific Kids

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray congratulated Lee Road Elementary School students Cameron Rolon, Jeanne Marie Fuchs, Cole DeLucca, Keegan Lynch, Zachary Moy, Janeth Gordillo, Abdullah Umer, Mackenzie Girgis, Oliver St. John, Rebecca Wasik, Annabella Fahey, Kailey Woods, Leanna Freedland and Ryan Monahan as they were named “Terrific Kids” by the Levittown Kiwanis Club.

New app allows TOB residents to sign up for programs

The Town of Oyster Bay recently unveiled a unveiled a new mobile app that allows residents to sign up for a variety of sports and recreational programs. The app is available for download through the App Store and Google Play store by searching ‘Town of Oyster Bay Parks & Rec,’ and allows residents to set up an account to sign up for yearround recreational opportunities.

Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch Restaurants, Golf Courses, Beaches and Shopping. Nassau is back and open for business!

“Through this great new Town of Oyster Bay Parks & Rec app, our residents can easily register for their favorite sports and recreation programs with just a few taps on their phones, simplifying the process for all who enjoy recreation in our Town,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This new app helps streamline the registration process and keeps all your favorite activities conveniently in one place.

Registration is currently available for golf, marina memberships, night fishing, kayak and rowing rack rentals, and various adult and youth programs including ice hockey, tennis, toddler programs, basketball, and sports & fitness. Residents can also sign up for special events, including runs and walks, tournaments and the Town’s car show. Residents can browse through available programs, view descriptions and schedules, upload all necessary materials and sign up right on the app. App users can also opt-in to receive notifications and stay up to date on all offerings. To view all the new Town of Oyster Bay Parks & Rec app has to offer, visit the App Store or Google Play tore and download it today. For more information, visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN

NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

FREE LAKESIDE THEATRE CONCERTS

EISENHOWER PARK, East Meadow | Parking Field #6

All Events weather permitting. Call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.

JUNE

Saturday, June 15 ...............

8:00-9:30pm Ja Rule at Mitchel Field Athletic Complex

Sunday, June 16 .................. 6:00-8:30pm Indian American Night

Wednesday, June 26

Greek American Night

Saturday, June 29

Chinese American Night

Sunday, June 30

Israeli American Night

JULY

Friday, July 19

Creole American Night

Saturday, July 20

7:00-9:30pm

6:00-8:30pm

6:00-8:30pm

Monday, July 1 7:00-9:30pm German American Night

Wednesday, July 3

7:00-9:30pm

7:00-9:00pm

Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway

Sunday, July 21 ..................

6:00-8:30pm

Bangladeshi American Night

Monday, July 22

7:00-9:00pm

Italian American Night

Thursday, July 25

7:00-9:00pm

Barometer Soup - A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet

Friday, July 26

7:00-9:00pm Doo Wop Show:

Johnny Farina of Santo & Johnny, Phil Cracolici and The Mystics, Vito Picone and The Elegants, Jimmy Gallagher of The Passions

Monday, August 12

5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: Vinnie Medugno & The Chiclettes

Thursday, August 15 7:00-9:00pm UB40 : Red Red Wine Tour

Friday, August 16 7:00-9:00pm Zac Brown Tribute Band (ZBTB)

Saturday, August 17 7:00-9:00pm

Doo Wop Show: Manhattan Skyline, Stan Zizka & The Del Satins, Larry Chance’s Earls

Sunday, August 18............... 4:00-8:00pm

Pakistani American Night

Monday, August 19 .............. 7:00-9:30pm Ukrainian American Night

5:30-10:00pm TD Bank’s Celebrate America Fireworks & Show featuring The Allmost Brothers Band & Chicken Head Rocks

Friday, July 5 Fireworks Rain Date

Saturday, July 6

7:00-9:00pm So Good – The Neil Diamond Experience

Sunday, July 7

6:00-8:00pm Opera Night with Christopher Macchio

Monday, July 8 5:00-6:30pm Senior Afternoon Concert: The Excellents and The Demensions

Thursday, July 11 ..............

7:00-10:00pm Rock of Ages Tribute: Shoot 2 Thrill - AC/DC

Completely Unchained - Van Halen Return to Paradise - Styx

Friday, July 12

7:00-9:00pm Streetfighter – Rolling Stones Tribute

Saturday, July 13

7:00-9:00pm Misty Mountain – Led Zeppelin Tribute

Sunday, July 14

6:00-9:00pm Harry Chapin Tribute Show & Food Drive with The Harry Chapin Band and Will Sing For Food

Monday, July 15 .................. 7:00-9:00pm The Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra

Thursday, July 18 ................ 7:00-9:30pm Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “A Grand Night for Singing” by Plaza Productions

NOONTIME CONCERTS

JUNE

June 19 Stiletto & Saxman

June 26 The Harmonizers JULY

July 3

Saturday, July 27

7:00-9:00pm

The Hilarious Hitmen, a Comedy Musical Spectacular

Sunday, July 28

Korean American Night

Monday, July 29

6:00-8:30pm

5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: The Fireflies and The Devotions

AUGUST

Friday, August 2

7:00-9:00pm

Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute

Saturday, August 3

6:30-9:30pm

Salute to Vets Show with Face to Face & American Bombshells

Sunday, August 4.................

6:30-8:30pm

The Midtown Men featuring Stars from the Original Cast of Jersey Boys

Monday, August 5

Irish American Night

Thursday, August 8 .............

7:00-9:30pm

7:00-9:00pm

Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack

Friday, August 9 7:00-9:00pm 45 RPM

Saturday, August 10

7:00-9:00pm This is Garth featuring JD Leonard

Sunday, August 11

6:30-8:30pm Living Colour

Thursday, August 22 ........... 7:00-9:00pm Let’s Sing Taylor - Taylor Swift Experience

Saturday, August 24 7:00-9:00pm Disco Unlimited

Sunday, August 25............... 7:00-9:00pm Don Felder former lead guitarist of The Eagles Friday, August 30 7:00-9:00pm That Motown Band

SEPTEMBER

Sunday, September 1 7:00-9:00pm The Purple Experience - Prince Tribute Sunday, September 8 ......... 5:00-7:30pm Turkish American Night Saturday, September 14 .. 7:30-10:00pm World Renowned Puerto Rican Salsa Orchestra Friday, September 20 7:00-10:00pm Legendary House DJ TBA with LI’s Own DJ Theo opening Sunday, September 29 2:00-9:00pm Latino American Night

Parks Administration 516-572-0200 For more information: nassaucountyny.gov/parks

WEDNESDAYS, 12:00-2:00PM | EISENHOWER PARK | Parking Field #1

All Events weather permitting. Call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.

Dennis Dell

July 10 Blue Angel

July 17 .............. Louis Del Prete

July 24 Tangerine

July 31 .............. Johnny Avino AUGUST

August 7 The Accords

August 14

Cathy Santanello

August 21 ........ Risky Business

August 28

Michael D’Amore

Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch Restaurants, Golf Courses, Beaches and Shopping. Nassau is back and open for business!

SEPTEMBER

September 4 Bob Damato

September 18 Edie Van Buren

September 25 The Tercels

Bring Blankets or Chairs

NASSAU COUNTY SUMMER CONCERTS AND FUN SPONSORED BY

Summit Lane hears tales from Division High School readers

Summit Lane Elementary School students received a special visit from neighboring students at Division Avenue High School, who shared their originally authored stories on May 21.

Seniors in the creative writing course at Division Avenue crafted their own original stories suitable for a younger audience. Using original artwork or photographs, seniors filled pages of a book with engaging and informative tales. Summit

Lane students greeted their older peers with much excitement, ready to hear what they had to share. In classrooms, each visiting senior led a group of students in following along with their story. Various activities were also designed by seniors related to their stories. The Division Avenue tradition is a rewarding one for seniors, who learn about the best ways to convey a story to a younger audience.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

Seniors and Summit Lane students had a great time interacting with one another.

Seniors prepared activities to go along with their stories.

POB student receives National Community Service Award

Plainview-Old

Bethpage JFK High School is proud to announce that Lauren Muscolino, a junior, has been honored with a National Community Service Award from the United Nations Association of the United States of America. This prestigious award recognizes Lauren's outstanding commitment to community service and her efforts in supporting the United Nations Global Goals.

Lauren has dedicated numerous hours to various community service activities, demonstrating a strong

commitment to making a positive impact. Her work aligns with the core values of the United Nations, particularly connecting personal service with progress towards Global Goals.

“Lauren's dedication to service is exemplary,” said Joseph Izzo, her school counselor.

“She is a student who truly understands the importance of giving back to the community and making a difference. Her recognition by the UNA-USA is well-deserved and highlights her as a role model for her peers.”

Division Avenue High School seniors authored stories to read to their neighboring peers at Summit Lane Elementary.

From left: School counselor Joseph Izzo, K–12 Director of Guidance Laurie Lynn, National Community Service Award recipient Lauren Muscolino and Principal Dr. Heather Dvorak celebrated Lauren’s achievement.

Photos courtesy of Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School Distric

LUXURY RENTALS FOR THOSE

‘ Apartments with Full Kitchens

‘ Concierge Services

‘ Daily Housekeeping

‘ Private Car Services

‘ Outdoor Pool with Cabanas

‘ Fitness Center & Yoga Studio

‘ Spacious Patio & Fire Pit

‘

‘ Golf Simulator

‘ Beauty Salon & Spa

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NASSAU.

BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,

SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS

SERVICING, LP FKA

COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS

SERVICING, LP, Plaintiffagainst- YONG S. LEE, YOUNG JA KWAK, MOON CHAN KWAK, EDWARD W. WALSH, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated November 12, 2019 and entered on November 13, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court "Rain or Shine" located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 9, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Hicksville, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the southerly side of Stanley Street, distant 431.85 feet southerly and easterly as measured along the westerly side of Stanley Street West and the Southerly side of Stanley Street South from the extreme southerly end of the curve connecting the westerly side of Stanley Street West with the Southerly side of 10th Street; being a plot 70.00 feet by 100.00 feet by 70.00 feet by 100.00 feet. Section: 46 Block: 334 Lot: 20

Said premises known as 22 BROOKS STREET AKA 22 BROOKS STREET SOUTH, HICKSVILLE, NY 11801

Approximate amount of lien $543,131.03 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 002575/2016.

ANTHONY J. RATTOBALLI, ESQ., Referee

Kosterich & Skeete, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave, Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604

{* Mid Island Times*}

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Too much junk in your house?

Place an ad for it in our classifieds section! Call 516.294.8900 for more details.

Place an ad for it in our classifieds section! Call 516-294-8900 for more details.

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to LaSalle Bank

National Association, as Trustee for Lehman XS Trust Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-2, Plaintiff AGAINST Ana D. Salmeron, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 3, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, ‘Rain or Shine’, on July 25, 2024 at 3:00PM, premises known as 72 East Avenue, Hicksville, NY 11801. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Hicksville, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 45, BLOCK: 64, LOT: 244. Approximate amount of judgment $552,770.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #004593/2016. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov/ Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-078914-F00 80387

Town, volunteers help terrapin turtles survive

Town Clerk Richard LaMarca, Town Councilwoman Laura Maier, State Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz and Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh at a display featuring information about diamondback terrapin turtles.

In an effort to help diamondback terrapin turtles survive predators, Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Laura Maier, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca and State Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz teamed up with Friends of the Bay and local volunteers to deploy protective cages around nests. The cages

keep natural predators like raccoons and fox away from the terrapins, thus contributing to their survival.

The diamondback terrapin turtles are a small species that lives in fresh or brackish waters. These turtles, which have distinctive diamond-shaped rings covering their shells, have a near-threatened conservation

status. Terrapins can be found along the northern shore of Oyster Bay, especially at Centre Island Beach, with a large population at the head of Mill Neck Creek near Beaver Dam. To register for future events that protect local turtles, visit https://www.friendsofthebay. org/volunteer-opportunities. html

Graduation for two

From page 1

national anthem was powerfully performed on electric guitar by Matthew Schneider.

In her valedictory address, Chinda encouraged the graduates with these words: “There will be obstacles in the future,

no doubt. Areas that demand more of you than anything else ever has – but with the lessons of perseverance and simple hard work that your time at Bethpage has instilled in you, these obstacles will become opportunities to grow. I hope that your futures are filled with

honor, courage, and unwavering determination.”

The ceremony concluded with the graduates joyfully tossing their caps into the air, followed by taking celebratory selfies on stage with Principal Jantz, Superintendent Schneider, and the entire audience.

“Shootout for Soldiers” lacrosse

From page 1

sessions. The score is cumulative, resulting in unique scores for a lacrosse game with totals reaching into the hundreds.

Participants include children, adults, seniors, youth, high school, college players and veterans. Teams that accommodate players with special needs are also scheduled to play.

For more information, please visit http://shootoutforsoliders.com or contact Harry Jacobs at longisland@ shootoutforsoldiers.com or at (516) 315-3002.

Bethpage students learn about water supply

As part of its continuing educational program to educate the community about water quality, treatment and delivery, the Bethpage Water District hosted over 200 students from the Charles Campagne Elementary School, Kramer Lane Elementary School and the Central Boulevard School. During the tours which took place June 4, 5 and 6, 11 different classes experienced a hands-on, behindthe-scenes look at the District’s water treatment facility, learning about the water treatment cycle, water conservation, where their drinking water comes from as well as a sampling of the fresh, clean, high-quality drinking water that is produced at the Plant 6 location.

“This is more than just a tour for the students,” said Lorraine Marcis, science enrichment director, Bethpage School District.  “This is an integral part of our science curriculum. During these visits, students gain a deeper understanding of the environmental processes of how the clean water they consume every day is delivered to their homes and schools.”

Michael Boufis, Bethpage Water District superintendent, provided the students with his first-hand knowledge and expertise during each class visit and brought the students up-close within the inner-workings of the $17 million, state-ofthe-art facility.  The District has designed,

During the first week of June over 200 students from the Bethpage School District toured the Bethpage Water District’s water treatment facility.

built and continuously maintains the most advanced and complex drinking water treatment systems in the nation. The District is considered a leader in New York State in terms of delivering an uninterrupted supply of high-quality drinking water to their community.

“It is critical for the younger generations to understand the importance of providing clean drinking water. During these visits and tours, we educate them about

where their drinking water comes from and share with the students an appreciate of the complexities of the water treatment process,” said Bethpage Water District Commissioner Teri Catapano Black.

“Providing high-quality, clean drinking water has been our mission over the last 100 years. Utilized and implementing the latest and most advanced water technology, we will continue this mission for another 100 years.”

During the tour, students saw and were taught how water treatment methods work, such as the well pump, air stripper, Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC). Students also got to witness the equipment and technology up-close, giving them a better understanding of how the District performs, 24-7-365, to keep a plentiful amount of water flowing for the community.

Wisdom Lane eighth graders begin new chapter

Wisdom Lane Middle School eighth graders proudly closed one chapter of their educational careers and stepped forward into another as high schoolers during their moving up ceremony on June 13.

To the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” played by members of the sixth and seventh grade band under the guidance of Lauren Stevens, the Class of 2028 processed into the Wisdom Lane auditorium surrounded by the cheers of loved ones. Student Charlie Naccash led the Pledge of Allegiance and the select eighth grade chorus sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Principal John Avena related students’ careers and experiences to a sycamore tree, which can grow tall and live long if allowed to flourish. “In our fast-paced and ever-changing world,” he said, “the sycamore tree, which can grow up to 175 feet tall and live for 600 years, beckons us to resist hasty actions and appreciate the value of patience and foresight.”

“Embrace the opportunities that

lie ahead, whether they be academic, extracurricular, or personal,”

Superintendent Todd Winch said to students. “Take risks, step out of your comfort zone and never be afraid to chase your dreams… Success is not measured solely by grades or accolades, but by the impact that you have on the world around you.”

Division Avenue High School Principal John Coscia welcomed students to their next educational destination and shared examples of the exciting prospects ahead of them. “What makes Division Avenue such a special place to attend is that when you walk down the hallways, everybody genuinely cares about each other,” he said.

Under the direction of Anthony Cornella, the chamber orchestra performed “Jupiter” from Gustav Holt’s “The Planets” before students Naila Mahmood and Jenna Mohamed gave the eighth grade address.

“These three years in middle school have shown each and every one of us that everyone has their own potential

to strive for,” Jenna said. “Whether it’s a leader, an athlete, a musician, a born artist – each one of us has their own special talents that helped us flourish into the wonderful young adults we have become today.”

“While the challenges we’ve encountered have undoubtedly shaped us, it makes our presence here today all the more worthwhile,” Naila added. “Graduation signifies not an end point, but rather a new beginning to unexplored journeys in our lives.”

Abigail Jimenez and Yashswini Malhotra presented the class gift: a school logo that will be installed on the floor in the main lobby.

Each eighth grader individually received a certificate from trustees and administrators. Closing out the ceremony, the eighth grade chorus performed “Closer to the Flame,” by Boersma and Lantz under the direction of Carol Spainer.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

Naila Mahmood and Jenna Mohamed presented the eighth grade address.

Friends enjoyed one last celebration as middle schoolers prior to the ceremony.

The select eighth grade chorus sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Wisdom Lane Middle School eighth graders marked a significant achievement during their moving up ceremony on June 13. Before the ceremony began, students showed their excitement.

Summer Vacation Travel in NYS: Come for the Fireworks, Stay for So Much More

New York State offers some of the best destinations for summer family vacations, with Independence Day festivities providing an added spark: If a staycation is your cup of tea, enjoy the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks (New York City) over the Hudson River starting at 8pm or  Jones Beach State Park, where, after a day enjoying the beach, boardwalk, surfing, fishing, miniature golf, and adventure center, stay for 9:30 pm The Jovia Financial Credit Union Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach when 8,000 fireworks blaze through the sky accompanied by patriotic songs.

But there is so much to explore in New York State:

Capital-Saratoga

Albany’s 4th of July Celebration : Celebrate the holiday with 20,000 other revelers at  Empire State Plaza . The 4th of July Celebration takes place from 5pm-10pm with live performances, food and fireworks. Watch the sky over  The Egg, the  New York State Capitol, and Corning Tower

Saratoga Springs exudes small town character and charm and is near where the famous Battles of Saratoga took place in 1777, marking the turning point of the Revolutionary War in favor of American Independence. Commemorate America’s independence in Saratoga Springs with annual events including the 18th annual  Firecracker4 Road Race, the longest and largest Independence Day race in the

One of our favorite places in New York State for a summer family adventure is Watkins Glen State Park. New York State is celebrating the centennial of the park system with a Centennial Challenge © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Northeast. Stay:  Saratoga Arms

Hotel, a historic 31-room boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs. Originally built in 1870, Saratoga Arms is a classic, Second Empire-style building that evokes old-world charm with a grand wraparound porch.

While in Saratoga: Saratoga Race Course offers summer race days, from watching the thrilling horse races to exploring the historic facilities and grounds which date to 1863 (you can get to the rail early and watch workouts and there is an outstanding Racing Hall of Fame). The summer season officially runs July 11–September 2 with popular races like Travers Day on August 24. Saratoga Spa State Park is the place to go for swimming, golfing, hiking, biking, and fishing. The park is also

home to a resort and spa,  performing arts center, as well as a  museum dedicated to automobiles.

Hudson Valley

LEGOLAND New York Resort in  Goshen is a theme park destination for kids ages 2–12, with 50 rides, shows, and attractions on 150 acres it’s the largest LEGOLAND theme park in the world, is hosting Red, White & BOOM at LEGOLAND (included with the cost of regular admission). Also in the area: hike the trails along the waterfalls of  Neversink Gorge Walkway Over the Hudson’s Fireworks Spectacular:  Walkway Over the Hudson, one of the longest pedestrian/cycling bridges in the world, is an ideal platform for viewing the City of Poughkeepsie’s fire-

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

works. The New York State historic park will hold a ticketed event 6:3010 PM (fireworks begin after 9 PM). See  website for tickets.

4th of July in Dutchess County: Head to the home of the minor league baseball team, the  Hudson Valley Renegades. Fireworks displays will take place at Dutchess Stadium for  three nights  (July 4-6) after their games against the Brooklyn Cyclones. Enjoy the  Hyde Park Independence Day Parade

Catskills

4th of July at Windham Mountain: The annual parade at Windham Mountain begins at 7 PM on Route 296, through Main Street, followed by fireworks beginning at dusk.

The Catskills also affords a new experience: camp at  Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on days when you attend concerts. (Bethel Woods was the site of the legendary Woodstock music festival). For the 2024  summer concert season (MayOctober), concert-goers can pitch their own tent, glamp in style, or roll into Best Road Campground with an RV.

Finger Lakes

Genesee Country Village & Museum Independence Day Celebration: This family-friendly daytime celebration will feature games, picnics, a pie-eating contest, patriotic tunes, and a swearing-in of new U.S. citizens. The  Genesee Country Village & Museum is hosting its grand 19th-century style parade and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.  July 4, $23 for adults,

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GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Summer Vacation Travel in NYS: Come for the Fireworks, Stay for So Much More

Continued from previous page

$20 for senior citizens, $20 for students 13-18, free for children 12 and younger.

Cortland County Independence Day Spectacular has a day-long celebration at  Dwyer Memorial Park in Preble with live music (starting at 2 pm), food vendors, and a beer and wine garden, and fireworks from 9-10 PM.  July 6, free, $5 parking per car starting at 8PM.

A stellar Finger Lakes destination is Watkins Glen State Park where you are kept spellbound as you walk the two miles trail along the stream that descends 400 feet passing 200-foot cliffs, creating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge. The park is a sensational place for camping (Olympic-size pool, tours the gorge), or stay in the charming village, on Seneca Lake. (To book NYS Park campsites, https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/)

Got a need for speed? Head to Watkins Glen International, the famous auto race track where you can experience world-class racing and events throughout the season. You can even drive your own car around the track on  Drive the Glen days. Visit  Sunset View Creamery, 10 minutes from Watkins Glen, for refreshing ice cream and some “cow cuddling,” a 30-minute experience that recognizes the calming influence of these docile creatures. Unwind with a Captain Bill’s cruise on Seneca Lake. Head northeast to  Taughannock Falls, one of the highest falls east of the Rockies, where the water drops 215 feet and you can swim, camp, and picnic.

On the western edge of the Finger Lakes, campers looking for adventure can seek out the scenically magnificent Letchworth State Park, nicknamed

“the Grand Canyon of the East,” for its massive gorge with three major waterfalls between cliffs as high as 600 feet. Letchworth also offers 66 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, a special one-mile loop Autism Nature Trail, nature center, museum, swimming pool and guided walks. There is  whitewater rafting through the canyon as well as hot air balloon rides (shared basket: $425/person; private flight: $2,150/couple). Sit down for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at the historic Glen Iris Inn and soak in the views of the Middle Falls.  Letchworth offers 257 campsites ranging from $27 to $30 a night, plus cabins $132-$568 per week.( https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/)

Chautauqua-Allegheny

Mayville July 4th Celebration: The village of Mayville’s festivities include a Grand Parade, live music and entertainment including magic, comedy, variety and stunt shows, finishing with a fireworks display.  July 4, free.

Panoramic Parks Scenic Park lets you experience 15 acres of the Paleozoic ocean floor at this  scenic park established in 1885. Natural attractions to explore include towering rocks 60 feet high and cavernous dens. You can hike the trails around the rocks and navigate through the nooks, crevices, and caves, and the park includes informational signs that explain the geology, as well as an educational treasure hunt for the kids, and picnic tables for lunch.

A short drive away, the famous Chautauqua Institution, a preeminent exemplar of lifelong learning, is where for nine weeks each summer you can experience a unique mix of fine and performing arts, lectures, programs, classes and community events for all ages, within the beautiful setting of a historic

lakeside village (tickets and accommodations.chq.org, 800-836-2787)

Thousand Islands-Seaway Fireworks over Boldt Castle: Alexandria Bay’s Independence Day celebration uses the stunning backdrop of the St. Lawrence River and  Boldt Castle for its fireworks display. Picnic along the shoreline or rent a boat to view from the water. The fireworks begin at dusk, this far north estimated at 9:45 pm.

Adirondacks

Best 4th in the North 2024 Celebration: This festival taking place from July 1-4 at  Bicentennial Park in Ticonderoga is jam-packed with a grand fireworks display, parade, live music, craft and food vendors, kid’s activities, a reading of the Declaration of Independence. July 1-4, free.

Ticonderoga 250th:   Throughout 2024, Fort Ticonderoga commemorates 250 years since the battle for independence. The region along the Lake Champlain shoreline, at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, was critical to American victory in the Revolution.

4th of July in Lake Placid: You can begin the day at the Lake Placid Horse Show starting at 8am ($10), swim at the  Lake Placid Public Beach, stroll around Mirror Lake, browse the shops, enjoy live music from 1-4 pm. At 5 pm, a July 4 gala parade will feature Olympic athletes and special guests, floats, classic cars and the fireworks extravaganza over Mirror Lake starts at 9:30 pm.

Great place to stay: High Peak Resort’s  summer family package features family-friendly activities like face painting Fridays, educational wildlife experiences Saturdays, water aerobics Tuesdays and Thursdays, evening live music on Thursday, guided nature explorations on Saturdays (www.high-

Whole Grains and Your Heart

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Since the prevalence of the Atkins and keto diets, carbs have gotten a bad rap. The truth is, the right carbs, just like the right fats, improve your overall diet. New research finds they may even help you lose weight -- and help your heart.

Cardiovascular disease is the underlying cause in approximately one out of every three deaths in the United States. And while there are many contributing factors, diet is certainly one of the most important. Several observational studies have found that greater whole grain consumption is associated with a lower risk

of cardiovascular disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and even death.

But here’s the problem -- most Americans consume less than one serving of whole grains daily. A serving, by the way, is a slice of whole wheat bread or a half cup of brown rice.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition on July 13, 2021, researchers found that older adults who ate at least three servings of whole grains every day experienced smaller increases in waist size, blood pressure and blood sugar compared with those who consumed less than one-half serving per day. Researchers used data collected from the National

Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Framingham Heart Study.

Researchers measured the waist sizes of adults in their mid-50s over a four-year period and found those who ate at least three servings of whole grains daily added only a half inch to their waist size. By comparison, adults in the “low-intake” group added one inch, on average.

In addition, study participants, on average, had blood pressure readings of approximately 125 over 75, but those who consumed at least three servings of whole grains daily measured, on average, 122 over 74.

Continued on page 5

peaksresort.com/packages/adirondack-experience).

More to do: bike the first 10 miles of the new  Adirondack Rail Trail connecting Lake Placid to Saranac Lake (when finished, the trail will stretch 34 miles between Lake Placid and Tupper Lake, see Bike Adirondacks for updates).

Meanwhile, The Adirondack Experience Museum on Blue Mountain Lake  is celebrating the centennial of the 138-mile long Northville-Placid Trail (oldest in the state) with a new exhibit about the history of the trail and the team who built it. There are guided overnight hikes (via Adirondack Hamlets to Huts). (www. npt100.com)

For more natural awe, visit High Falls Gorge, 22-acre nature park features waterfalls, hiking/walking trails and glass-floor walkways (4761 NY-86, Wilmington, NY 12997, www.highfallsgorge.com) and the awesome Ausable Chasm, where you walk along the Cliffside trail, do mountain biking and river rafting (2144 US-9, Ausable Chasm, NY 12911, 518-834-7454, www. ausablechasm.com).

For a great all-day outdoor experience, head to Tupper Lake and the 115acre  Wild Center & Wild Walk. The star of the Center’s outdoor experience is Wild Walk, with more than 1,000 feet of bridges and platforms rising over the top of an Adirondack forest, a four-story treehouse, swinging bridges, a spider’s web where people can hang out, and a giant-sized bald eagle’s nest for a rare point of view of the Adirondacks. More information on New York State travel at www.iloveny.com

© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

The magic of going to the movies

I’ve always enjoyed going to the movies with family and friends. It’s a night out and a time to do something fun and different.

This year the big question is are more people going to the movies or have they gotten used to the comfort and convenience of watching various TV shows and movies in their own living rooms? Cable TV and streaming services have made accessing good movies easy.

There are so many channels and programs available compared to the 1960s and 70s when I was young and access to a wide range of TV shows was limited. ABC, NBC and CBS were the three big channels. We certainly didn’t have remote controls back then or the ability to lower or increase the volume of the TV while seated on the couch. Technologically speaking, we’ve come a long way and I’m glad about that.

The onset of Covid-19 necessitated us to do plenty of social distancing so we had no choice but to watch TV shows and movies on our own TV screens. That put a dent in movie theatre attendance for a while and even after Covid shots were given and things improved, attendance at movies dropped. A lot. People hesitated about returning to theatres and I understand why. I was among those people who’d gotten used to using my cable TV and Roku to watch some very interesting movies almost daily but I still longed for the days when going to see a movie in my local theatre was a fun outing.

Perhaps going to the movies as a family is a nostalgia thing. When I was a kid, my parents were in the habit of taking us six Lynch kids to the movies and making a special event of it. Saturday afternoons were good times for us to go and I remember one summer in particular when I was 10 years old - my Dad had a week’s vacation and during that week we saw three movies in three different towns. Making our home base a fun time was a great idea because it was so different from our

prior routine of going to school, doing homework, etc.

My friend, Amy, said that her family also made going to the movie theatre a bit of an excursion. As a really young kid of about five, Amy remembers looking forward to seeing a cartoon short before the main attraction started. She and her family would be settling down into their seats and getting ready for a good show when the lights would dim and the theatre would grow quiet. She got a kick out of the different Bugs Bunny cartoons and never knew which Bugs Bunny or Mickey Mouse short would be shown.

Kylie, my niece, said her family had a fun time going to the movies recently. There are six people in Kylie’s family: Kylie, her husband, Josh, their daughter, Scarlett Angel, who’s 9, and three sons. I noticed on several occasions that half of my relatives call the girl Scarlett and the other half called her Angel because she happens to be such an angel.

When my friends and relatives go to the movies, we look forward to eating popcorn, drinking soda and watching the coming attractions almost as much as we enjoy the main attraction. Whether it is a romantic comedy, a mystery, a musical or a thriller, they

all hold our attention and entertain us for a while.

I may be a Nostalgic Nancy when it comes to families going to the movies but I realize that times have changed. Every so often I hear about a movie theatre closing for good and I know that’s inevitable. Economic pressures have gotten to be too much for some owners and they also acknowledge that many people are now perfectly content with watching movies and TV shows at home. Many people feel it’s safer and they’re happy to invite friends and family over to make an evening of socializing and watching a good movie.

At my place, sometimes we watch new releases but other times we have oldies nights, as in “old movies.” I’m careful when I choose an old movie because some of them run long and I’ve noticed that many people don’t have the patience to sit through really long movies.

One of the longest movies on record is “The Caine Mutiny” which came out in 1954 - it played for 2 hours, 5 minutes. It’s a classic movie in so many ways so it’s worth watching but it’s definitely lengthy. “The Caine Mutiny” starred Humphrey Bogart but it’s long for the kids in my family plus the subject material wouldn’t hold their attention.

The young kids don’t seem to appreciate the classic movies as much as those of us who are 50+ but that’s another story altogether. I think “Barbie” is more their thing although last year that was probably more of a hit than now. I heard that “IF” is in movie theatres right now. “IF” stands for imaginary friends and it is a fantasy comedy about a young girl whose mother has died and her dad has his medical issues. When Bea, 12, visits her grandmother, she has a run-in with Cal, the upstairs neighbor. She gets thrown into a world of pure imagination, helping imaginary friends find new kids since their own kids are grown up. Cailey Fleming plays Bea, Ryan Reynolds is the upstairs neighbor and Lou Gossett, Jr. plays Lewis, the founder of the imaginary friend’s retirement home.

Friends tell me that “IF” is a hit with the young and older people in their families so my family plans on seeing it soon.

The best movie lines from films have a way of staying with us. Who can ever forget manager Jimmy Dugan aka Tom Hanks in “A League of Their Own” telling Evelyn Gardner aka Bitty Schram “Are you crying? Are you crying? There’s no crying! There’s no crying in baseball!” Movie going can be great for making memories with friends and family. It can be a laugh a minute.

Don’t Fret Over Social Security Starting Date

BY TOM MARGENAU

I am always hearing from readers who are hung up on making sure they start their Social Security benefits at precisely their full retirement age. Or at precisely the age of 70. They don’t want those benefits a month before. They don’t want them a month after. They want to make darn sure that their benefits start at exactly the month they chose as their Social Security starting date. And they almost seem to be losing sleep making sure this is going to happen. They send me emails asking me, almost begging me, to help them make sure they select the right date.

I always want to tell these guys (and it always seems to be guys) to chill out. Don’t worry. Be happy! You will probably pick the right date. But even if you don’t, guess what? The Earth will keep spinning and the sun will come up tomorrow. And you will not be making a huge mistake that will affect your benefits for the rest of your life. I will explain what I am talking about in a minute.

But first, let me go over the ground rules. They are really simple. If you want benefits to begin at your full retirement age, then on your Social Security retirement application, you simply indicate the month you reach your FRA as your starting month. So, if your full retirement age is age 66 and 8 months, and you will be age 66 and 8 months in September 2024, then you simply indicate September as your starting month. That’s it!

But some people overthink this. For example, they know that Social Security checks come one month behind. In other words, the September 2024 Social Security check is paid in October. So, if a guy turns FRA in September, he thinks too hard and he puts October as his starting month. But the Social Security application question isn’t asking you which month you want your check to show up in your bank account; it’s asking you which is the first month you want to be eligible for a Social Security check.

One little bit of clarification: Social Security eligibility always goes by month, not by days. For example, if you were born on Jan. 21, 1958 -- meaning your full retirement age is 66 and 8 months, and that’s when you want your benefits to begin -- you don’t indicate Sept. 21, 2024, as your eligibility date. You simply indicate September 2024.

Some guys have told me that they are afraid to file for benefits early, because they are worried sick they will get benefits before their full retirement age. For example, Bob and I recently exchanged several emails. He was born Jan. 14, 1958. His full retirement age is 66 and 8 months. And he wants to make sure his benefits begin at his FRA, which would be September 2024. He asked me when he could file for benefits. I told him he could start the ball rolling next month, in July. But he doesn’t want to do that because he is worried they

will use July as his starting date. I told him that assuming he indicates September as his starting date on the application, that is when his benefits will start. But he wrote back to say he was just so concerned about getting benefits on the wrong date that he was going to wait until September to apply.

I then sent him a return email with my “the sun will come out tomorrow” message. In other words, even in the extremely unlikely event that his benefit start date ends up being July, the world won’t end, and his benefits won’t be affected all that much.

Let’s say Bob’s September full retirement age benefit rate is $3,200. If through some fluke, his benefits started two months earlier, he’d get a slightly reduced benefit. Benefits are reduced about 0.5% for each month they are started early. That comes out to a 1% reduction for Bob. So instead of $3,200 per month, he’d get $32 less per month, or $3,168. That’s the downside. He’d get $32 less each month. But on the upside, he’d get two extra Social Security checks at $3,168 each, or $6,336. Bob would have to live 198 months, or more than 16 years, before he came out on the losing end of the Social Security stick with that slightly earlier starting date.

Bob was a bit relieved by that point I made. But then he told me he had another concern: his wife. She has a lower Social Security benefit on her own record, and assuming Bob dies first, she will get widow’s benefits on his record. And he said he wants her to get as much money as possible. So, if Bob ends up with $32 less per month in retirement benefits, then his wife’s widow’s benefit would be $32 less per month, too.

I told Bob that if making sure his wife gets the highest widow’s benefit possible was his primary concern, he should consider waiting until 70 to file for Social Security. He would get almost four years’ worth of delayed retirement credits added to his benefit rate, and his wife would also get that extra money in the form of widow’s benefits. Bob told me he considered that, but he and his wife decided he should not give up all the benefits he’d get between now and age 70.

And here is a message for those who plan to wait until 70 to file: Social Security claims filed after full retirement age come with an option of taking up to six months in retroactive benefits. So, let’s say you reach 70 in August 2024. When you file, you could say you want your benefits to start in August, or you could elect to take the six months in retroactive benefits. In other words, your Social Security start date would then be February 2024. If you like the idea of a big retroactive check, then go for it, but your ongoing benefit rate will be about 4% less.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand

Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.

com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

A pre-inspection can save you money, and your sale

By now you will have already noticed that I finally realized that my photo was outdated and a new one needed to be considered as the unfortunate process of living changes how we appear, so I found it appropriate to follow through and be cognizant of my new me, lol However, I remember when my daughter gave me a mug when I was 60, 12 years ago, that said, “you’re not 60, you’re 18 with 42 years of experience.” I am older now, but still feel like I am 18 and in the best condition of my life!

No one likes to spend money foolishly. However, expending wisely on a pre-inspection can potentially save you thousands of dollars and minimize the stress when selling; if your home is 20 years or older. Hiring a certified home inspector or professional engineer will be a prudent and smart activity to be performed. This will ascertain what is right, but more importantly, what is wrong with you home. Knowing this in advance of putting your home on the market, will educate you as to what may need to be repaired. It isn’t about upgrading your home, but knowing what could squash a sale because of some defect or major issue that could have been dealt with if you knew about it. Some may not think having a pre-inspection is not crucial in order for a sale to take place; but it will be the most important investment of your money than you could imagine. With inventory so historically low you’re not very worried as demand is still very strong and someone will buy your home, no matter what may be wrong. But that could be a huge error in judgement. The big question is, if avoiding fixing something, what will it really cost you in the sale price? However, when issues do arise, then you may either have to provide a credit. This may be more

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“Our findings suggest that eating whole-grain foods as part of a healthy diet delivers health benefits beyond just helping us lose or maintain weight as we age,” study coauthor Nicola McKeown said in a press release.

And because weight and Type 2 diabetes can be contributing factors to heart disease, this study matters. The bottom line is adding at least three servings of whole grains to your meals each day can make a difference. Your heart -- and your waistline -- will be glad you did.

Just what is a whole grain? Think

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

than it would have cost you if you had originally been aware of the issue and was capable of fixing it. The worst case scenario, when not dealing with problems beforehand, is that you could lose the buyer altogether. Why go through the motions of selling to end up having to fix the problems after the buyer does their inspection; when this could have been dealt with in the first place.

midifier to keep moisture levels as low as possible will avoid a mold condition that will occur. Although mold generally will not kill you, it can be more challenging and aggravate those with existing respiratory conditions. A dry basement will be more beneficial in the sale of your home, your health and be one less issue that you will need to have to deal with in the future.

faulty construction will further provide the critical information prior to making the most expensive purchase of your life.

Being “penny wise and pound foolish” is part of the human condition. We all procrastinate (I have to admit, that I periodically procrastinate) for various reasons; laziness, putting a chore off to another day, lack of funds, illness, etc. However, when it comes to the most valuable asset that most American homeowners possess, procrastinating can only hurt your future wealth. Being proactive in the first place and making sure over the years that you are in your home, is to address issues when they are small and not wait until they become severe and a major financial headache. It will be easier when you have the money to deal with small problems, than to wait until they blow up in your face. Periodically checking on your utilities, water, electric service and gas to make sure that they are functioning properly will be to your benefit in the long run. Leaking pipes, water infiltration in the basement, especially when near a body of water can cause havoc when ignored. Due to the areas on the north shore where soil in many areas can be more clay in structure, water doesn’t percolate down very easily and may keep many basements smelling a bit musty. Having a dehu-

Although performing a pre-inspection in addressing homes that are 20 years or older is prudent; a newly built home may have problems too, occurring in advance of that time period. I have seen some new homes with flooding issues that the builders never addressed or maybe weren’t aware of. Having a home inspector, checking heat, hot water, electrical, gas, roof, windows, even if floors are level and true, proper insulation, quality of appliances and fixtures, may result in finding problems that need to be fixed. The inspection report as well as your own punch list should be provided to your developer and addressed prior to signing your contract. Just because it is new construction, doesn’t necessarily mean everything was built and installed correctly. Make sure that everything you are purchasing especially any customizations and extras have been done and are to your satisfaction. Depending on the developer, some have had issues and checking for online reviews in advance of purchasing or building will provide you greater insight as to the experiences of current or former owners of homes they have built. Even going as far as checking to determine if there were any current or previous lawsuits against them for

Whole Grains and Your Heart

brown rice, quinoa, barley, whole-wheat bread and high fiber cereals like oatmeal -- foods that have fiber because they contain the entire grain (the germ, bran husk and endosperm). When grains are refined -- making white flour from wheat, for example, or making white rice from brown rice -- the process removes the outer husk and bran layers and sometimes the inner germ of the grain kernel. Because the bran and germ portions of the grain contain much of the dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals, the nutrient content of the whole grains is far superior to that of refined grains.

Some food manufacturers add iron,

thiamin, riboflavin, folate and niacin back to white flour through enrichment, but typically they don’t add back the dietary fiber and nutrients such as vitamin B6, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and zinc, which are lost in processing.

Q and A

Q: Are there health benefits to caffeine?

A: Caffeine does help people feel less tired and can increase energy levels. Additionally, a healthy amount of caffeine may also improve mood and brain function, help boost your metabolism, speed up reaction times and even help with memory.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/ Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 42+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.) and has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geo-thermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” no obligation 15 minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289.

Save his My New Electronic signature/Bio/Reviews to save to your contacts: https://onetapconnect.com/turnkeyrealestate-philraices

However, too much caffeine can lead to caffeine dependency, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues and fatigue once it leaves your system. So how much is the right amount? Healthy adults should aim to have no more than 400 mg of caffeine each day. This will reduce the likelihood of negative side effects like jitters, fast heartbeat or muscle tremors.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. .COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY MARY HUNT

As you read, are you wearing your shoes? Is your sink shiny? Can you walk through your living room without tripping over clutter? Would a knock on your door cause you to die of embarrassment?

In her classic book, “Sink Reflections” (Bantam, 2002), author Marla Cilley remembers the days when she slouched around in bare feet and uncombed hair. She can remember not being able to find a clean dish. She often refused to open her front door because of the mess inside. But those days are over. Marla did it. She conquered CHAOS, which is her clever acronym for Can’t Have Anyone Over Syndrome.

In this entertaining and laugh-out-loud guide, Marla teaches you how to look at home maintenance in a new light.

Known nationally as The FlyLady, Marla takes you one baby step at a time from disorder to order in your home. The first few chapters introduce you

Straighten Up and Fly Right!

to the devastating effects that clutter has on you and your family. Marla compares clutter to cholesterol in our arteries. Clutter clogs up our homes, adds stress, decreases joy and wastes time and money. She’s right. After we’re convinced that all that clutter is killing us, chapter 3 begins the nuts and bolts of getting rid of it. Here’s where we need to be ruthless.

Most of us save stuff because of sentimental or economic value. Marla challenges that in a convincing way: Get rid of all that stuff. Marla reminds us that it is impossible to organize clutter. Amen.

Marla is a true believer in lists and index cards. Borrowing from the classic “Sidetracked Home Executives” cleaning system, she has incorporated it into her book.

Marla recommends that before you try her cleaning system, throw out the piles of magazines, cute kids’ artwork from 20 years ago, clothing you’ll never fit into again, weird kitchen gadgets and VHS tapes.

On her fun website (www.flylady.net), Marla even asks readers to weigh every bag of stuff they pitch and post it on her site to see how many tons they’re getting rid of. (And don’t forget to write down and appraise your donated items for the potential tax benefits.)

The beauty of the FlyLady’s system is that you start small. After you’ve torn into your clutter like a school of piranhas, the actual cleaning can begin.

On the first day, there is a list for you to follow. It’s pretty simple. Get completely dressed, including hair and makeup, then go shine your sink. Her directions for an eye-popping sink are found on page 97. I tried it. It was dazzling. There are chapters to help us do laundry efficiently, get the family involved in cleaning, conquer paperwork and even go on vacation.

Marla lays out a plan for each room, or “zone,” in one’s house. It works. But she reminds us not to expect perfection overnight. This is a little-by-little process. And this is a book you need to read. I can-

not recommend it highly enough for its wit, wisdom and ability to change a life, home and family.

By following Marla’s detailed plan, we can stay on track, “work” our lists, refuse to let clutter take over, and transform our homes into neat, efficient and warm havens. What could be better than that?

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM0

Smart Freezer Organization, Cutting Cost of Aluminum Foil

BY MARY HUNT

Sharing readers’ tips with you reminds me just how much we can teach each other. Just when I think I couldn’t possibly learn anything new, here comes another cool way to save time or money every day from readers just like you. It makes opening my mail so much fun!

Stackable “Bricks”

If you freeze foods in plastic bags, you may have a freezer filled with odd-shaped, difficult-to-organize lumps of food. From now on, slip a zipped bag of food into an empty cereal box, placing the whole thing into the freezer. Now the food item will freeze into a neat shape. Once it’s frozen, slide it out of the box. Stack your freezer’s contents like bricks. You’ll know what you have because you’ll be able to see everything, plus your freezer will be more efficient with less air space. -- Arnold P., Alabama

Use It Twice, Half the Price

If you’ve locked eyeballs with the price of aluminum foil these days, you might consider what I’ve been doing to keep the cost down: Depending on its initial use, you might be able to rinse off a piece of aluminum foil and repurpose it. Use the foil again to cover leftovers, line a baking sheet or even crumple it up to scrub tough messes from your pots and pans. Another handy trick is to sharpen scissors with foil. Simply fold a piece of foil several times and make a few cuts through it with your scissors. It really works! -- Nadine, New Jersey

Spice Co-op

My wife often ends up with spices she uses only once or twice before they go stale and have to be thrown out. Her solution? She formed a spice co-op with a close friend. Now whenever either of them buys a new bottle of spice, they share half the bottle. Both save money and end up with a great spice collection. They also have discovered that exchanging spices is a great excuse to get together for a gab session. -- Gil N., Texas DIY Access

As ridiculous as it may be on my part, I kept locking my keys inside the car. Getting a second programmed key fob to hide somewhere would have cost over hundreds of dollars! So instead, I took the “spare” key that came with the car -- the one that only opens the driver door, not the ignition -- and put it in a magnetic box and attached it under the car. Although this key can’t start the car and will trigger the alarm when used to unlock the door, it allows me time to retrieve my keys from inside the car, turn off the alarm and continue on my way without having to call for roadside assistance. -- Rhonda G., Maryland

Leave the Foliage

Resist the urge to remove the foliage after your garden bulbs have finished blooming. Let the leaves wither naturally so the bulb has lots of time to manufacture nutrients and fatten up for next year’s blossoming. Now your bulbs will perform as true perennials. -- Wilton M., Pennsylvania

Go Away!

If chipmunks and rodents are dining on your newly planted bulbs, discourage them by sprinkling a pinch of moth crystals over each bulb as you plant it. The crystals will last long enough to deter hungry rodents and then evaporate into the soil. By winter the soil will have compacted around the bulbs so rodents won’t dig for them. By the way, did you know gophers will not touch daffodils? -- Sylvia R., Oregon

Splash Guard

Place a sheet of plastic wrap over the top of your food processor’s bowl before applying the lid. When you remove it, all the splatters will be confined to the bowl, and the lid with be spotless. -- Cherie H., California

Non-Stick Frost

If you do not have a frost-free freezer, do this next time you defrost. Dry the interior walls well, then spray them with a light coating of non-stick cooking spray. This will not prevent frost building up, but it will make it a lot easier to defrost because the ice and frost will slide off effortlessly. -- Penny P., Kansas

Find

a Safe Place

The worst place for a medicine cabinet is in the bathroom. Most medications deteriorate in a bathroom’s warm, moist environment. They keep much better in a cool, dry place like a linen closet, on a high shelf out of the reach of children. -Margie B., Michigan

NOTE: Please understand I have

not tested nor can I guarantee the outcome of any tips or recommendations by my readers. Enjoy this information as entertainment, always allowing common sense to be your guide. Got it? Great.

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of June 23-29, 2024

Regular readers of my column know that constellations are impossible to see. For many years I’ve seen folks disappointed when they begin to do stargazing and can’t find a lion or a hunter or a bear in the sky.

There’s a good reason for this: The images aren’t there! Constellations are simply areas of the sky that the ancients set up to represent objects, animals and people, but at no time did these ever resemble anything. Former planetarium director Don Hall frequently explained that constellations look no more like their namesakes than the George Washington Bridge looks like the father of our country.

But what about the patterns we do see, like the Big Dipper, the Northern Cross, or the Square of Pegasus? Of course, it’s pretty easy to find patterns among the randomly distributed stars -- patterns that we recognize as geometrical figures, letters, numbers and even punctuation marks. But these are not “constellations.” They are “asterisms”: groups of stars that our imaginations form into images we recognize.

If we search long enough, we can find some remarkable asterisms. This week, while the moon isn’t illuminating our evening sky, head outdoors after dark

STARGAZERS

The Stellar Coat Hanger

and search for one of my favorite asterisms: the Coat Hanger.

To find it, face east and locate the three bright stars of the Summer Triangle (another asterism) midway up in the sky. The brightest of the three is Vega, followed by Altair and Deneb.

Once you’ve found the triangle, look along its southwestern side, about one-third of the way from Altair to Vega. If you have a dark sky and good vision, you might spot what appears to be a faint smudge of light. It was first described 1,060 years ago by the Persian astronomer Al Sufi in his “Book of Fixed Stars.” Of course, he had no idea what he was seeing, but he found it remarkable enough to record its existence.

Modern stargazers have a huge advantage over Al Sufi; we can aim binoculars in its direction to see what’s really going on there. If we do this, we can see 10 faint stars that outline the shape of a tiny coat hanger -- a straight line of six with a hook on one side formed by four stars. While we may perceive it as a coat hanger, astronomers know this collection of stars as Collinder 399 or, less formally, as Brocchi’s Cluster. Whether or not it is a star cluster is a matter of debate. Back in the 1970s and ‘80s, astronomers believed many of its stars seemed to be moving together in the same direction and at the same speed as if part of a stellar family we

know as a star cluster.

Today, however, we think differently. Measurements made by the European Space Agency’s Hipparcos satellite in the early 1990s suggest that these stars are not moving together as a cluster. Instead, they seem to be separated by hundreds of light years and appear to be drifting through space in arbitrary

directions and speeds.

Whatever we call it -- Collinder 399, Brocchi’s Cluster or the Coat Hanger -- it’s one cool sight on warm summer nights!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Invasion of the Hornet Snatchers

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

I discovered the squatters when I was outside watering the flowers on our front porch. I heard a slight buzzing sound, and since I wasn’t asleep, I knew it wasn’t me snoring. Suddenly, there was a fly-by buzz over my head, and when I followed the path of the buzzee, my eyes landed on a wasp nest, roughly the size of Rhode Island, under the portico above the front door.

I assessed the situation and then, like any rational city-turned-suburban-turned-rural woman, dropped my watering can and ran screaming into the house.

“I think I know why we haven’t received any of our packages recently,” I said to my husband over the phone.

“Why is that?” he asked.

“Because there is a wasp condominium over our front door.”

“If they’re not paying HOA fees, then

they have to leave,” he said.

“How do we get them to do that?” I asked.

“Call the pest control people and get them to come over and get rid of it.”

To me, the nest looked pretty big, but you know you really have a substantially sized wasp nest when the pest control person takes one look at your nest, steps back and says, “Whoa!”

“Those are hornets,” he said, ducking down as one of said hornets emerged from a hole in the mothership.

“Is that different from a wasp?” I asked him.

“It’s a kind of wasp. Except they’re bigger and meaner. But don’t worry. I’m a hornet removal specialist.”

“That’s great,’ I said wryly. “You know, I was thinking about getting a guard dog to protect the house while we’re gone, but a swarm of mean, angry flying insects with enormous painful stingers on their butts seems much

more efficient.”

Wasp man went back to his truck and came back wearing a hazmat suit with a mesh helmet. I was standing there in a T-shirt and shorts and suspected, based on his wasp-fighting wear, that I was probably underdressed for what was about to happen next.

“What are you going to do?” I asked him.

“We’re going to spray it, and then the wasps will die and fall out of the nest.”

“Fall like where? All over my front porch? I don’t think that’s going to be a real selling feature for my house either. Can’t you just take the whole nest away and relocate it someplace, like that neighbor around the block who reported us to the town because our fence was an inch too high?”

“Nope,” he said. “If I try to move it while they’re all in there, it will make them really mad.”

“You mean madder than they already

are?” I asked, taking yet another couple of steps back.

“Right,” he said.

I looked back up at the alien hornet nest mothership and thought for a minute.

“Okay, here’s what’s gonna happen,” I finally said. “You’re going to do the thing you specialize in. You’ll spray and then clean up the hornets when they fall out and then take the nest away when it’s all done.”

“Got it,” he said. “And what about you?”

“I’m going to do the thing that I specialize in,” I replied. “I’m going to leave.”

Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

LOST IN SUBURBIA

One of my favorite asterisms, the Coat Hanger, also known as Collinder 399 or Brocchi’s Cluster.

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Secrets to a great grilled cheese

Smoked Gouda and Roasted Red Pepper Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese is an ideal comfort food. It’s crispy, buttery and full of warm and gooey cheese. Many people grow up enjoying grilled cheese as children, and then continue digging in to this delight as they get older.

While grilled cheese may seem like simple fare, there are some techniques to make it even more delicious. This includes strategies to make it golden brown with perfectly melted cheese.

When preparing grilled cheese, you don’t want to rush the process and end up with burnt bread. Try placing the grilled cheese in a cold pan and then letting everything heat up together slowly over medium-low heat. This ensures the heat is evenly distributed and the cheese will melt as the bread develops its golden color.

Yield: 4 servings

8 1⁄3- to 1⁄2-inch-thick slices

Pullman bread

4 ounces smoked gouda, very thinly sliced with a cheese slicer

4 slices muenster cheese (about 4 ounces)

Aim for optimal coverage of butter or mayonnaise. Yes, you read that correctly. Some culinary experts, like the ones at Bon Appétit, recommend using mayo in lieu of butter to spread on the bread because it has a higher smoke point and is less likely to burn while cooking. Be sure to spread your butter or mayo all over to the edges of the bread for optimal coverage and flavor.

Next, select a good quality cheese that melts well. Some are better than others in this department. They include colby, havarti, swiss, monterey jack, muenster, American, smoked gouda, and cheddar. Then work with a recipe that will elevate the grilled cheese even further, such as “Smoked Gouda and Roasted Red Pepper Grilled Cheese,” courtesy of the Food Network Kitchen.

1 medium jarred roasted red pepper, drained, dried and thinly sliced

2 cups baby arugula

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1. Lay out 4 slices of the bread on a work surface. Layer each with some of the smoked gouda, 1 slice of the muenster, a thin layer of sliced red pepper (about 2 tablespoons), ½ cup of the baby arugula, and another layer of smoked gouda. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread. Thinly and evenly spread the butter on both sides of the bread using 1½ tablespoons of the butter for each sandwich.

2. Place 2 sandwiches into a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the bread is evenly golden brown, about 2 minutes. Flip, cover again and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is visibly melted, about 2 minutes more. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.

Town seeks photos for publications

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to submit photos taken in the Town of Oyster Bay to be considered for future use in Town publications.

“We accept photos year-round submitted by our residents which depict people, places, community events and scenery throughout our Town,” said

Town Councilman Tom Hand. “We accept photos for the calendar, as well as other Town publications, including our website, social media pages and brochures.”

Councilman Hand noted that photos should be taken within the confines of the Town of Oyster Bay. Digital sub-

missions are preferred, but high-quality photos may also be submitted. Emailed photos should be sent to photos@oysterbay-ny.gov. Printed photos can be submitted to the Town’s Public Information Office, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay NY 11771. Residents should make sure their name, address, phone

number and brief description of the photo are included with their submission. The photographer is responsible for the correct spelling of the names and subjects in the photos, as well as notifying subjects they may appear in a Town publication.

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Salk eighth graders move up on MacArthur field

It was a moment to remember for the eighth grade class at Jonas E. Salk Middle School, who marked their official moving up to high school on June 11.

The Class of 2028 processed onto the neighboring General Douglas MacArthur football field, basked in golden sunlight. Parents and loved ones in the bleachers cheered as “Pomp and Circumstance” played. Student Aidan Lazzarini led the Pledge of Allegiance before the eighth grade chorus sang the national anthem.

“Today marks not just the end of middle school, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibilities, opportunities and dreams,” Principal John Zampaglione told graduates. “You have shown remarkable dedication, intelligence and kindness over your years at Salk Middle School.”

Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Debbie Rifkin, who will retire this school year after an 18-year career in Levittown, congratulated graduates and encouraged them to keep moving forward.

“Each of you has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of challenges – and for that, you should be immensely

proud,” she said.  Caden Triolo, president of Salk’s student government, addressed his peers. “Over the past few years, each and every one of us has not only learned about solving math equations or understanding science terms, but we have also learned core values like teamwork, friendship, grit and determination,” he said. “Although we are all unique in our own ways, together we rise.”

Several awards were issued to deserving students. Awards included the President’s Educational Excellence and Achievement awards, Academic Excellence, Outstanding Citizenship, New York State Triple “C” Awards, the New York State Comptroller’s Achievement Award, Scholar Athlete Awards, the Levittown Kiwanis’ Patricia M. Kelly and Lester I. Smith awards, and the RISE Character Awareness Award.

Each Salk graduate shook hands with trustees and administrators as they received their diplomas. The ceremony was closed out with a performance of “Rise Up” by Andra Day from the eighth grade chorus.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

Members of the eighth grade chorus sang the national anthem.

The Salk Seahawk mascot led the procession onto the MacArthur field.

Student government president Caden Triolo received the New York State Comptroller’s Achievement Award during the Jonas E. Salk Middle School moving up ceremony on June 11. The award was announced by counselor Michelle Lyons. Before the ceremony, eighth graders gathered in anticipation.

Robert Ruocchio and Lyla Curtin were honored with awards from the Levittown Kiwanis.