Bethpage Newsgram (7/5/24)

SERVING BETHPAGE, OLD BETHPAGE, AND PLAINVIEW

Hicksville High School celebrates the Class of 2024

Oyster Bay named best regional harbor in America

Oyster Bay Harbor has been designated as ‘Best Harbor’ winner for the Mid-Atlantic region by the US Harbors organization for 2024.

“US Harbors asked the public to vote for their favorite harbor out of more than 1500 harbors, exemplifying where they had the most passion for where they live, boat and fish,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We are proud to continue many efforts to keep the vitality of our beautiful harbor, including a highly successful shellfish management program with a soon-to-be expanded hatchery that produces millions of clam and

oyster seedlings annually. Working with environmental partners on a variety of initiatives to protect our harbor, we will continue these initiatives to help naturally clean our waterways, protect our shoreline and filter local waters while repopulating shellfish.”

Started by US Harbors in 2019, the ‘Best Harbor in the U.S.’ contest allows users to vote on their favorite of over 1,500 coastal and Great Lakes harbors from March to May of each year. U.S. Harbors notes that the contest ‘truly reflects the pride and passion people

Hicksville High School graduates made their way to the school’s athletic field on June 22 as “Pomp and Circumstance” played and cheers from family and friends filled the air. The commencement ceremony kicked off with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Principal Raymond Williams was the first to welcome the Class of 2023, offering peace and thanks to all. His welcome was followed by graduating seniors Arvin Mehra and Maira Fahim singing of the national anthem.

ic foundation they have which will position them well for the next several years and beyond.

After the national anthem, Principal Williams began his remarks to the graduates by acknowledging them for their hard work and the choices they have made to get to this point.  He praised them for the strong, solid academ-

Among the many points he shared, he asked the Class of 2024 as they move into adulthood to be mindful of “time.” Principal Williams continued, “Time is finite and irreplaceable and is truly the single greatest commodity we have.” He See page PB

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Free pool safety seminar

The Town of Oyster Bay is partnering with Catholic Health to offer residents and non-residents a Free Pool Safety Seminar on Monday, July 8, at 1 p.m. at Marjorie R. Post Community Park, located at 451 Unqua Road in Massapequa. Families are encouraged to attend as children under the age of 15 make up more than 78 percent of pool submersion injuries in the United States annually, with 67 percent of them including children under the age of three.

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “Nothing is more important than the safety of our children, and to improve pool safety we offer this seminar to with the goal of

saving lives through public education and awareness. We want you to have lots of fun in the sun while always be prepared to respond to emergencies.”

Seminar attendees will learn from professionals about healthy swimming, basic first aid, hypothermia, cramping, drowning prevention, basic CPR (not certification), recreational water wellness and EMS ambulance education. The seminar is sponsored by Optimum, News 12, KJOY 98.3FM, WHLI 1100AM, 103.1 The Wolf, Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation and Nassau County. For more information, call (516) 797-4121 or visit www.oysterbaytown. com

Hicksville High School celebrated the graduating Class of 2024

Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

Oyster Bay walking tours highlight history

Residents interested in local history are invited to embark on a journey through time with a guided walking tour of historic Oyster Bay, where echoes of the past meet footsteps in the present. Raynham Hall Museum, located at 30 West Main Street in the hamlet of Oyster Bay, offers a twohour, historic walk through Oyster Bay, spanning 1.5 miles.

“This fun and educational tour takes you to multiple historic sites, bringing participants back to our Town’s colonial roots and its role in America’s formative years,” said Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca. “From the spiritual Fort Hill Cemetery to the waterfront that once bustled with oyster harvesting and pirates, these tours offer a rich tapestry of tales, including those of notable figures like George Washington’s spy, Robert

Townsend, and Theodore Roosevelt. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a picturesque walk, Oyster Bay’s Historic Walking Tour is a delightful blend of education and leisure.”

Historic Walking Tours are offered Saturday, July 20, September 14, October 5 and October 12, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. from Raynham Hall Museum, 30 West Main Street, Oyster Bay. Tours are offered for $25 ($20 for museum members) through Raynham Hall. The Historic Walking Tour through Oyster Bay was developed with the help of Margo Arceri, Culper Spy Ring historian and Three Village Historical Society Tri-Spy Tours founder.

For more information, visit https:// www.threevillagehistoricalsociety.org/ tri-spy-tours

DWI arrest in fatal crash

Nassau County Police arrested an East Meadow woman after a fatal crash which occurred in Old Bethpage on Friday, June 28.

According to police detectives, Cheryl Bergenstock, 64, struck a 2019 Toyota Corolla while she was driving her 2023 Subaru Forester on Round Swamp Road near Winding Road. The driver of the Corolla was Alan Goldsand, age 82. Goldsand was airlifted by the Nassau

County Police Department’s Aviation Unit to a nearby hospital and later pronounced deceased by a staff physician.  Bergenstock was also transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.

According to police, Bergenstock was operating her vehicle while intoxicated condition and was placed under arrest. She has been charged with Vehicular Assault 2nd Degree, Asssault 2nd Degree and Driving While Intoxicated.

Bethpage School Board to meet

The Bethpage Board of Education will hold its annual Re-Organization Meeting on Tuesday, July 9, from 7:30 p.m. Administration Building District Conference Room.

“Movies by Moonlight” in town parks this summer

The Town of Oyster Bay will be hosting free “Movies by Moonlight” in local parks on Thursday evenings this summer, beginning July 11 and concluding on August 8. Residents are welcome to bring blankets and chairs when attending these family-friendly movies.

“Residents and families looking for a fun night need look no further than their backyards this summer as the Town is ready with a summer to remember,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We’re thrilled to once again show family-friendly films at our parks, along with character meet and greets, inflatables, games, and more.”

Seating and pre-movie activities will begin at 6:00 p.m. including character meet and greets at select movies, inflat-

For additional information, please call (516) 797-7925 or visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com.

Summer Movies:

Thursday, July 11

Marjorie R. Post Community Park, Massapequa - Movie: Wish

Thursday, July 18

Ellsworth W. Allen Town Park, Farmingdale  -  Movie:  Migration

Thursday, July 25

Plainview - Old Bethpage Community Park, Plainview -  Movie: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:  Mutant Mayhem

Thursday, August 1

Harry Tappen Beach, Glenwood Landing -  Movie: Trolls Band Together

Syosset-Woodbury Community Park,

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Sports field upgraded at Haypath Park

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced the competition of baseball field improvements at Haypath Park in Plainview. The Town of Oyster Bay upgraded the natural surface infield to a synthetic turf playing area.

“These important upgrades enhance the overall playing experience for our little leaguers and others who use these fields,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “These upgrades are being achieved in the most cost-effective way while bringing added enjoyment to all who use them.”

Artificial turf fields have a general useful life of up to 10 years, however they are less expensive than the long-term cost of maintaining natural grass and a dirt surface. Turf fields also provide the potential for fewer cancellations of games due to inclement weather, as the field is able to absorb rain storms in a manner that is not possible on a fully-dirt infield.

“Replacing the infield with synthetic turf allows for extended play time for athletes and brings a significant upgrade to this beautiful park,” said Councilman Lou Imbroto. “We are pleased to bring these enhancements to the Plainview community while keeping a watchful eye on our bottom line.”

For more information about Town parks, including local programs and events, visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown. com/parks.

Town Clerk Richard LaMarca, Councilman Lou Imbroto, Town Supervisor Joe Saladino and Tax Receiver Jeffrey Pravato.

Your server is a robot at new eatery

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Robot server in Hicksville restaurant brings dishes from kitchen to diners.

BY GEORGE HABER

A newly opened chicken restaurant in Hicksville includes among its staff a robot server who delivers meals from the kitchen to the table. The good news: You don’t need to tip him/her!

The restaurant is Peri Peri Guys on South Broadway in the Big Lots shopping strip. It’s part of an international network of chicken restaurants with a distinctive flame-grilled chicken and exotic spices with a Portuguese and South African derivation.

Under other brand names, the Peri Peri chicken restaurants are located world-wide and claim to be the most popular chicken restaurants in the

world. The company has some of its most popular branches in the United Kingdom, the Mideast, and Asia.

“Peri-peri” is the name of a spicy sauce that’s an important part of Mozambique’s history, as the sauce reflects the blend of cultures present in the country for centuries. PERi-PERi chicken eventually made its way across the border to South Africa, but it all started in Mozambique.

The restaurant in Hicksville is the first of its kind on Long Island, but other branches are in Washington, Baltimore, and Chicago, among other locations in the United States. There are more than a hundred branches in London.

Tuesday, July 9, at 11:00 a.m.

Morning Mystery Book Discussion (IN-PERSON)

Join Donna Burger, Readers’ Services Librarian, for a Morning Mystery Book Discussion of the novel “The Golden Spoon” by Jessa Maxwell.

Thursday, July 11, at 2:00 p.m.

Impeachment: A Historical & Constitutional Perspective (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: James Coll, adjunct professor of American and Constitutional history, Nassau Community College and Hofstra University, and retired NYPD detective

It ’ s been over 150 years and over 20 years since the impeachments of Presidents Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, and the even more recent impeachment of President Donald Trump, we will visit the constitutional provisions defining this legal device as well as provide an examination of the circumstances surrounding these events. No registration needed.

Thursday, July 11, at 7:00 p.m.

Writing Workshop: How to Write the Next Big

Summer Beach Read (VIRTUAL)

Stop dreaming about writing the next big sizzling vacation read! Learn the everyday writing tricks that you can use to turn your story ideas into the next summer beach read. Participate in writing exercises and prompts that you can use to successfully turn your idea into an exciting page turner. Registration required. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, July 12, at 11:00 a.m.

Judy’s Italian Cucina: Bakery Style Italian Cookie Class (IN-PERSON)

Instructor: Judy Boshnack

Join us in our Italian cucina and learn the tips and tricks to making bakery-style Italian cookies.  These tasty buttery delights melt in your mouth and are as beautiful as they are scrumptious.  Cookie samples will be served after the lesson and you will go home with dough to bake more cookies at home.  Fee: $5. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, July 12, at 2:00 p.m. Friday Movie at the Library (IN-PERSON)

Join us for an afternoon movie at the library. Check our website for the movie that will be shown. Go to syossetlibrary.org.

Town offers new beach yoga classes

The Town of Oyster Bay is offering a new 10-week yoga program at Philip B.Healey Beach at Florence Avenue in Massapequa. Classes are offered Wednesdays throughout the summer, beginning July 10, for a 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. or 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. session.

“The Town is proud to offer residents a variety of programs and services including these new yoga classes which offer great benefits to the mind, body and soul, behind a beautiful beach setting,” said Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh. “Yoga builds strength, increases general flexibility and is considered a great stress reliever.  Sign up today and use this opportunity to also meet new friends that can last a lifetime!”

Registration is now open and available at www.oysterbaytown.com/portal. Residents can also sign up on the Town’s

new Parks & Recreation App, available by searching ‘Town of Oyster Bay Parks and Recreation’ in the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Registration is $60 for Town residents and $70 for non-residents.  Please note that the schedule may be subject to change and residents are encouraged to inquire about special holiday scheduling. If a session is cancelled due to inclement weather, a make-up session will be attempted. Mats will not be provided, so participants must bring their own yoga mat.  Participants should check with a physician before partaking in any physical fitness program.

For more information and for registration availability, contact the Town of Oyster Bay Department of Parks at (516)797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny.gov.

Do you have a ser vice to adver tise?

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.

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Annual Research Symposium

Bethpage High School proudly hosted its 14th annual Research Symposium on June 5. This notable event, open to students and families from the Bethpage Union Free School District, showcased remarkable student achievements in research, robotics, and engineering. The symposium welcomed enthusiastic junior scientists from Bethpage UFSD’s elementary schools.

The event commenced in the Bethpage High School auditorium, where students Ankur Raghavan, Zoe Chinda, and Partap Sidhu presented their impressive research

projects, each followed by an engaging question-and-answer session with the audience. Following these presentations, attendees moved to the cafeteria to explore a diverse array of projects from students in Research 1-3 classes.

Across the hall, the STEM lab offered hands-on activities for elementary school students. A particular highlight was the resident robot, which captivated the younger students with a series of entertaining tricks, orchestrated by the high school robotics students.

HB Thompson students celebrate Moving Up Day

Approximately 300 H.B. Thompson Middle School eighth grade students officially became Syosset High School students during a moving up ceremony on Tuesday, June 18.

The ceremony on the Syosset High School turf field was led by Masters of Ceremony Ananeah Danamjay and Chase Pendrick. The two graduates introduced a recorded performance of the Star-Spangled Banner by the HBT Chamber Winds orchestra. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by graduate Charles Mo.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Rogers spoke about the rise of artificial intelligence. Despite AI’s capacity to produce a wealth of knowledge, he said, it will never replace human compassion. “I love telling stories of our students’ kindnesses both large and small, but I’ve yet to hear a story of a single kindness originated by AI. AI is changing the world, but only you can change it for the better.”

Principal Kevin Bonanno also addressed the students. “No class has exemplified our motto of Hearts Beat Together better than all of you,” Mr. Bonanno said. “Three new initiatives began this year: our peer tutoring in the library, the buddy program, and most recently, HBT Unite. While adults helped in organizing, you made it happen. Your contributions to our school, will continue even after you all move on next week.”

Students received their certificates from HBT administrators. Principal Bonanno commended the recipients of the Presidential Award for Educational Excellence, the Presidential Award for Educational Achievement, and the HBT Community Service Awards.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, certificates in hand, the newly minted Syosset High School freshmen marched off the field towards their next chapter.

Freshman Partap Sidhu with the robot arm he created for efficient garbage recycling.

Students from Bethpage UFSD’s elementary schools participate in activities in the STEM lab.

Researchers from the senior class of Bethpage High School.

Bethpage High School robotics students demonstrate the movements of their resident STEM lab robot.

H.B. Thompson Middle School held its Moving Up ceremony on June 18.

Hicksville High School celebrates the Class of 2024

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said, “We spend time with our families, friends, exercising and online and time ultimately gets us everything we want and everything we need in this life and it’s amazing how time flies!” He encouraged the students to cherish every second and use their time wisely and remember it’s not the quantity of time but the quality of time and how it is spent that will determine the fulfilment and success life will bring.

The Hicksville High School principal concluded his remarks with, “Live a life of gratitude, be thankful for what you have and remember, negativity is the enemy of gratitude.”  He thanked the students for the time they have spent together and wished them all well.

Other speakers included Superintendent of Schools Theodore Fulton, Ed.D. and honored guest Joseph Feeser, IV,

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION

Notice of Formation of Ronrico LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/15/2024.

Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Ron: 257 Maple St, Massapequa pk, NY, 11762. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION

Notice of Formation of Coach T - Sports & Wellness Partner, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/10/2024.

Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Tarek Ali: 91 S. Herman Ave. Bthethpage, NY 11714. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Hall of Fame recipient 2024; Board of Education trustee Linda Imbriale and Class of 2024 valedictorian Melanie Unger, salutatorian Zahel Nasari and student government president Gia Rangi.  The students each addressed their classmates directly, reminiscing about fond memories made together, and shared good wishes as they move forward in life.

Valedictorian Melanie Unger expressed gratitude to her family, teachers and told her fellow classmates they are all worthy of this day and the diplomas they are about to receive.  She continued, “There will be good times ahead and tough times but never give up.” The valedictorian closed her speech by saying, “keep believing in yourself, keep striving and never lose sight of the ability and strength you hold to create the life you desire.”

When Superintendent of Schools Theodore Fulton spoke, he began with a warm welcome to the students and guests in attendance at the morning celebration.  Throughout his speech, Dr. Fulton expressed gratitude and appreciation to all. The Superintendent reinforced humble words of wisdom for the graduating class saying, “No matter what, always be yourself, always be true to yourself!”

Along with congratulations and best wishes, the Hicksville Superintendent said, “Embrace what makes you unique, hold true to who you are and follow your dreams and never settle for second place.”

After the speakers, the high point of the ceremony took place. Diplomas were presented to the Class of 2024, and each graduate received applause and cheers from guests as their name was called.

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Hicksville Middle School students celebrate moving up

Hicksville Middle School eighth graders and guests enjoyed celebrating graduation on the front lawn of the school. Photos courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

Hicksville Middle School eighth graders celebrated their advancement to high school with a strolling celebration on June 26 on the front lawn of the school. The event kicked off with Hicksville Middle School Assistant Principal Vinh Nguyen-Horan welcoming students and families and wishing them

good luck as they continue their educational journey. Students and family members lined up and waited eagerly as each name was announced. Special awards and accolades were mentioned as each student stepped up to the podium for a photo and handshake from Principal Benjamin Tangney.

After receiving their certificates, the students and their guests paraded forward down the teacher-lined aisle cheering for each member of the graduation class.

Once through the procession, students posed on the school’s front lawn with friends and family.

College Notes

Dani Cherkis, of Syosset, was one of more than 50 SUNY Oneonta students who received a 2024 Academic Achievement Award during the 36th annual recognition reception on campus. Each academic department chooses one to three students who stand out from the rest of their peers in their major to receive this award.

Cherkis, who is studying Early Child/Childhood Education (B-6), received a nomination from the Elementary Education and Reading Department.

n Kevin Meyenhofer, of Bethpage, was one of more than 50 SUNY Oneonta students who received a 2024 Academic Achievement Award during the 36th annual recognition reception on campus. Each academic department chooses one to three students who stand out

from the rest of their peers in their major to receive this award.

Meyenhofer, who is studying Communication Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies, received a nomination from the Women’s and Gender Studies Department.

n Timothy Maxwell Elicks of Syosset, a senior majoring in mechanical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the Spring 2024 semester at Clarkson University.

Presidential Scholars must achieve a minimum 3.80 gradepoint average and carry at least 14 credit hours.

n On Friday, May 10, Plainview resident Joseph Horowitz, who majored in Environmental Engineering, was bestowed a bachelor’s degree at Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s 155th

Commencement. Over 1,100 undergraduate degrees were awarded during the ceremony.

n Melanie Barroca of Levittown, recently graduated from York College of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Brianna Gregory from Levittown recently graduated from Cedar Crest College in Allentown, PA. Brianna received a degree in Master of Science in Forensics.

n Neel Sheth of Syosset has received the 2024 UAlbany Great Dane Award.

The Great Dane Award is given to any student who has demonstrated leadership in several co-curricular activities or significant leadership in one such activity during the current year.

Guest artist presents workshop at POB Middle School

Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School was thrilled to host a guest artist from the Huntington Arts Council on June 12, as part of the district's ongoing partnership with the Council through their Journey Program. The visiting artist, Oksana Danziger, conducted a workshop titled, "Felting: History and Tradition from Siberia," where students learned and practiced the art of mino (“nuno”) felting.

Oksana Danziger, a renowned artist with a rich background in traditional Siberian felting, guided the students through the history and techniques of this ancient craft. During the workshop, students created their own felt flower pins, immersing themselves in a handson experience that combined history, culture, and artistic expression.

The felting workshops were integrated into all Art 9 studio classes throughout the day. Art teachers Mr. Dan Poplawski, Mr. Avila and Ms. Holland facilitated the sessions, ensuring that each student had the opportunity to engage deeply with the material and create something unique.

“Having Oksana Danziger share her expertise with our students was an invaluable experience,” Poplawski said. “The workshop not only enriched their understanding of global artistic traditions but also allowed them to explore new creative techniques.”

July 5, 2024

Artist Oksana Danziger visited Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School to teach the history and technique of mino felting. Photo courtesy of Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District

July 5, 2024

Gearing Up for Summer Travel

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Whether you are adventuring or beach going, cycling or sightseeing, travelers need gear that is flexible, light, durable, portable, packable and as much as possible, versatile and multi-purpose. The right gear can make such a difference in a safe, memorable travel experience.

Here are some that have come to my attention, some of which I was able to sample:

Travel in Comfort Coalatree’s Trailhead Pants ($99, Affiliated with  ShareASale/Ski mlinks,  Impact,  AvantLink,  Amazon ). I really liked Coalatree’s waterproof, tear-resistant and antimicrobial Trailhead Pants. Versatile and flattering, you can wear them whether you are hiking, exploring the city, or on the plane. Coalatree strives to use sustainable materials throughout the production process – even recycled coffee grounds.

Core Tee by Forme ($178, ShareASale / Skimlinks ) Avoid neck and back pain from slumping over in those low-quality seats in Economy. The eco-friendly made Core Tee by Forme® is an FDAregistered patented posture activewear that improves your alignment and effectively rehabs neck, back, and shoulder pain commonly associated with poor posture and spinal disorders. Made from eco-friendly Tencel fabric, the Core Tee is constructed of different materials and thin layers that are stitched together. The Forme tech inner layer is fused across the shoulder blades, creating an elastic-band sensation. When you put the Core tee

Planning for an outdoors adventure? Everything from t-shirts, socks, hiking shoes, backpacks, sunglasses, skin care products should be considered for their packability, functionality, flexibility, versatility, wearability, and comfort © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

on, the fused section wants to remain tight no matter how broad you are across the shoulders. This makes your shoulders pull back to their natural position, teaching your body and diaphragm to open.

CEO Active (Racer Back Top: $30, Flare Legging: $45): If you are looking for a travel day outfit that is more trendy and comfy, check out CEO Active’s Artemis Set which combines functionality and style. The Artemis Flare Legging in green is a tribute to the goddess of the hunt and wild nature.

COR Surf - Huakai Travel Jacket ($99.99): I always travel with an extra layer and COR Surf, maker of outdoor gear and accessories, has designed a jacket that is comfortable, functional, great in almost any weather condition and very packable in my backpack. It is constructed with lightweight,

10K, PFC-free DWR water-resistant microstretch fabric that gives freedom of movement and comfort; great for layering in cold and warm weather; has hidden pockets on the sleeve for credit cards; a large hidden pocket on the back for passport or money (this pocket has velcro so that it will be louder and harder to access for a pick-pocket); two inside chest pockets that are designed to fit a cell phone; and exterior chest pocket that easily holds a large cell phone with a water-resistant zipper. It also comes with a carrying pouch.

NEW  Ankle Guard Socks by Forme ($35, ShareASale/Skimlinks)  Reduce strain, tension, and pressure on your ankle joints from long flights with the new Ankle Guard Socks by Forme®. These patent-pending high socks just launched on January 12th and are made with biofeedback

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

technology designed to align and stabilize the ankle and foot muscles for reduced pain and inflammation.

Protalus - Green T-100 Elite ($64.95/pair,  Amazon): Protalus insoles are designed to promote proper whole-body alignment when traveling for long periods of time. The T-100 Elite is constructed with patented rebound foam & patented alignment technology. This insole provides superior relief by allowing your body to distribute pressure properly by keeping your ankle aligned and in a safe range of motion.

TheraICE *NEW* Sleep Mask + Cooling Gel ($29.95, Amazon): Great for the plane ride, block out sunlight and overhead reading lights with TheraICE’s new Sleep Mask with a 3D bucket blindfold design. It is made to provide both cooling relief and comforting warmth and weighted to provide a gentle, soothing pressure that aids in faster sleep induction and better sleep quality. Made with premium materials, it provides a plush, soft rest for your eyes, ensuring maximum comfort throughout your rest period.

Hiking, Camping, Outdoors

Deckers X Lab’s ENDURO MAX ($199 - $249,  Avantlink / Skim links / Viglink): Deckers X Lab’s ENDURO MAX is engineered for speed, comfort and fluidity on the trail. Featuring a V-shaped carbon plate, a Vibram® Litebase outsole, a nitro-infused shell, and a heel-to-toe rocker, the ENDURO MAX offers durability and agility to excel on rugged terrain and light enough to turn a hike into a trail run.

Knog Bilby 400 Headlamp ($64.95, Avantlink/Skimlinks/Viglink) is designed from for serious outdoor

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adventure and is powerfully bright, tough, and intuitive, casting a powerful beam up to 100 meters and a boost mode.

Mission Workshop Speedwell ($335, Avantlink/Skimlinks/Viglink) The fully weatherproof Mission Workshop Speedwell is a versatile backpack utilizes the same breathable floating harness system used on the MW hydration packs to provide generous airflow, stability and comfort in the most adverse conditions and features the ASP pocket system for efficient storage and ease of use.

Ornot Mission Pant ($148, Avantlink/Skimlinks/Viglink): These do-it-all, sewn-in-the-USA pants can take you from the trail to the office (WFH Ornot). The technical 4-way stretch woven fabric makes them lightweight yet durable enough to be your daily driver.

Tees

ARTILECT Sprint Tee ($85, ARTILECT) is made with Nuyarn 115gsm Speed-Lite, one of the world’s lightest-weight merino fabrics. This fabric features superfine 18-micron merino wool with a high-performance nylon filament carrier for performance and comfort. With reflective tape embedded in the side seams, the Sprint offers a level of safety for early morning and evening workouts.

Odlo-X-Alp Performance Wool 115 trail running t-shirt - Men’s and Women’s ($75): Natural performance made for the mountains. Lighter, stronger and faster drying than traditional merino, the ODLO X-Alp Performance Wool 115 trail running t-shirt is a modern, high performance merino that’s unlike any other. Crafted from Performance Wool powered by Nuyarn® - a wool blend that closely mimics wool›s natural performance characteristics -

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Gearing Up for Summer Travel

this tee is naturally temperature regulating (keeps you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cool) and naturally antimicrobial (which cuts down on scents). Sourced from non-mulesed merino wool, the fabric dries 5 times faster, perfect on long runs in the mountains. Features a stylish micro-stripe.

Black Diamond - Women’s Rhythm T-Shirt ($90): Built for freedom and mobility, the Rhythm tee features Nuyarn merino wool technology making it significantly lighter than other wool shirts, while increasing performance, dries five times faster than standard merino, while providing 35% more stretch. Certified non-mulesed Australian Merino Wool. Machine washable. Slim. 95g.

Socks are really important no matter what kind of travel pursuit you pursue - hiking, running, endurance, skiing, biking, hunting, work and lifestyle. Our favorites: Bombas ( https:// bombas.com/) and Darn Tough (www. darntough.com).

Shades

Hiking Shades from adidas Sport eyewear: No hiking outfit is complete without a pair of performance sunglasses engineered to withstand the rigors of the trail, with durability and protection against the elements. The sleek design ensures a comfortable fit, while the high-performance lenses provide exceptional clarity, so you can see with enhanced contrast and vividness:

adidas Sport ACTV SP0083 ($65.38, Eyeons ): The adidas Sport ACTV SP0083 is a squared injected sunglasses with a dynamic, sporty design and functional elements to optimize comfort and performance, including a ventilation system on the front and temples and maximum grip temple tips.

adidas Sport eyewear CMPT Ultralight Shield, SP0077 ($99, REI. com): The adidas Sport CMPT Ultralight Shield is a rimless shape with a bold line and sophisticated design. This versatile, easy-to-wear sunglass is characterized by exceptional lightness and a large transparent lens. Contoured temples feature the adidas Sport logo and rubber tips improve comfort and grip.

Skincare

Visor Skincare ($19) – I confess I am pretty bad about putting on sunscreen, but I really love Visor – it may be the only 100% clear sunscreen that is oil-free, alcohol-free and fragrance-free. It goes on so easily and feels light and cool. Visor has 80 minutes of sun protection compared to Goop’s 40 minute; Is a fraction of the cost ($19 compared to $38 with Goop); Infused with anti-aging and skin-brightening ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C; Is actually clear (Goop’s is cloudy) making it inclusive to all skin tones. The tube is also packable, at under the 3oz limit for air travel.

Wholesome Hippy - LemonAid Whipped Wonder Balm with Limonene 2oz ($16.99) This wonder balm is a versatile remedy for sunburns to real burns. This 2oz wonder balm ingredients include Lemon Essential Oil, Lime Peel Oil, Soybean Oil, and Medium Chain Triglycerides, creating a nourishing foundation for skin health.

Reveka Skincare’s Tea Tree + Peppermint Body Bar (4 Pack/$38.97, Available on Amazon) This 3-in-1 body bar has a rich lather and can be used as shampoo, soap, and shaving cream. It›s made with tea tree, peppermint and shea butter to best hydrate your skin. Made with Magnesium Chloride from the Ancient Zechstein Seabed, Reveka’s soap is one of the best topical magnesiums to

promote new tissue growth; soothe the skin and makes it glow; and alleviate common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis & acne. Their products are crafted with clean ingredients with no preservatives or dyes and are 100% made in the U.S. The soap bar is a bit hefty and would be ideal to stock your vacation home or cabin.

Timeless Glow Bundle by Sun Chlorella ($92.99, Available on  Amazon  and  Walmart): After an airline trip, your skin can feel really dry. Revitalize with Sun Chlorella’s Astarella Primetime Skin Cream. It contains Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF), an ingredient that helps to even out skin tone. Sun Chlorella Cream combines CGF with ingredients like clove and grapefruit seed extract to promote healthy-looking skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and retain moisture. TimelessGlow bundle comes with 2 bottles of their Astarella Primetime Skin Cream and a complimentary compact mirror.

NOMATIC’s Toiletry Bag

2.0 ($39.99): Hold all of these toiletries in NOMATIC’s hanging toiletry bag. Made with durable, water-resistant materials and zippers to ensure there are no leaks and your toiletries stay protected.

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

BY CHARLYN FARGO

It seems counterproductive to lower your cholesterol (a fat) by eating healthy fats (omega-3 and monounsaturated fats), but it works. And the result is a healthier heart.

A recent analysis found that dietary changes that raise blood levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol can decrease the risk for cardiovascular disease. Those changes include swapping refined carbohydrates for healthier fats.

The analysis study, which combined information from eight observational studies in various European countries, estimated the result of replacing 5% of calories from carbohydrates with the same number of calories from fats. The analysis found that replacing carbohydrates with

mono- or polyunsaturated fats had favorable effects on blood cholesterol. If those same carbohydrates were replaced with saturated fats, favorable effects were not seen.

Specifically, the analysis found:

-- Replacing carbs with total fat or monounsaturated fatty acids was associated with higher HDL (good) cholesterol numbers and no change in LDL (bad) cholesterol.

-- Replacing carbs with polyunsaturated fatty acids was associated with lower LDL and no changed in HDL.

-- Replacing carbs with saturated fats was associated with higher LDL and no change in HDL.

What’s it all mean? Including more of the good fats -- omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, tuna, walnuts), both mono and polyun-

saturated fats (olive, peanut and canola, corn, chia, flax) is actually good for heart health.

Remember fats have more calories than carbohydrates so you don’t want to overdo it, but replacing saturated fats (meat, butter) with healthy fats and choosing a few less refined carbohydrates can be heart healthy.

That doesn’t mean choosing an Atkins or keto diet where carbohydrates are nearly eliminated. This means replacing refined carbohydrates in your diet with healthier fats. That’s an approach that will benefit your heart.

Q and A

Q: Will everyone benefit from reducing or avoiding gluten?

A: Not at all. Gluten is a protein found

Continued on page 5

Any day is a good day for a smoothie

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Whenever I get a hankering a summertime smoothie I find myself rummaging about in the kitchen and pulling together all of the fruit and necessary ingredients.

When it comes to cooking and doing food preparation I don’t consider myself to be the most patient person - which my family ribs me about constantlybut I do enjoy the taste of a cold smoothie that’s been freshly made in my own kitchen. Going out for smoothies is a fun treat but drinking a homemade smoothie is just as enjoyable. Either way a smoothie hits the spot.

For some reason I like knowing what ingredients have gone into my smoothie - and those I make for my relatives - and that includes baby spinach, a small banana, blueberries, sliced strawberries, 3 ozs. of vanilla yogurt, milk, water, peach slices and basically whatever is in my refrigerator that looks fresh and appealing.

I should qualify that and say whatever is in my refrigerator or freezer because often I’ll make the smoothies with frozen fruit. It can last several months in the freezer and I know it’s there for quick, impromptu smoothies.

Sometimes I’ll add a splash of chocolate syrup to the mix or some cacao powder or protein powder. Also, a dash of a sugar substitute takes the tartness out of my smoothie. Long ago I gave up measuring things - whatever works is fine with me. Saying that sounds terrible but the fact of the matter is I’m no Julia Child. Or Ina Garten aka the Barefoot Contessa. They are experts who take a lot of pride in making delicious tasting meals and are precise about their presentations. I’m just someone puttering in my kitchen occasionally.

I am fussy in that I want the final product to be good - I want it to taste delicious - but I don’t want to spend an hour in the kitchen finding the ingredients, blending them up and pouring them into enticing glasses. I want my

smoothie making time to be a fast process. My motto is making smoothies should be painless. Not tiring, not boring, just quick and easy.

The whole process went a lot faster when I switched from using a large blender to a smaller blender. The larger blenders that hold eight cups are useful, don’t get me wrong, but I’m not usually making 64 ozs. of smoothies so my mini Oster blender works well for my purposes. Several manufacturers make these “single serve blenders” and my mini Oster was gifted to me by a friend. What a nice birthday gift, I thought and I’ve certainly put it to good use.

The plastic bottle that comes with the single serve blender holds 20 ozs. which is a good size. It’s easy to wash after the fact. As long as it fits as much as I need, I can blend a decent-sized smoothie in about five minutes. The blender has four blades and the kit comes with a cover.

I’ve found that blending a smoothie doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out

ingredients to the plastic bottle, I blend it all up and pour it into chilled glasses. It’s not the most scientific way, I know, but it does the trick when the family and I want a nice-tasting smoothie. You can drink the smoothies right away or put them in the refrigerator to chill even further.

Helpful tips - things I learned along the way. Buying 32 oz. bags of frozen blueberries, I put them in the freezer for future use. Before blending I take out a sufficient amount and let them defrost for several minutes. Also, it helps to cut the larger pieces of fruit before blending. Smaller pieces are gentler on the blades of the blender.

I also pick up large bags of frozen sliced strawberries. I’m going to slice the strawberries anyway for my smoothies so this saves a bunch of prep time.

My kitchen often looks like a whirlwind of activity when I’m in the midst of preparing and blending smoothies. I’ve got my spoons, knives, chopping

project, just a quick press of the button and voila! my smoothie which looks kind of purplish (thanks to the fresh blueberries and green baby spinach) is ready.

If I need some more smoothie for other people, it’s easy to repeat the same process. Adding some additional

board and ingredients all splayed out on the counter ready to be washed, chopped and inserted into my little blender. It may look hectic when I’m in the midst of blending a smoothie but I have learned to clean up as I go. Put things back in the refrigerator and wipe the counters after blending. Your

spouse or partner will thank you.

One other tip: although a single serve cup holds 20 ozs., don’t fill it to the brim. When the blades of the blender go to work, there has to be some extra space for all of that liquid splashing around.

I discovered this through the school of hard knocks: don’t tighten too much or it will be impossible to reopen. Also, on the other hand, tighten it well or the ingredients will go flying around the kitchen.

Homemade smoothies can be as healthy or as decadent as you wish. I enjoy drinking smoothies - with other fruits added - but several friends of mine enjoy adding ice cream, heavy cream, etc.

I like drinking my smoothies because it’s a nice treat plus it fills me up for a few hours so I’m not looking for other snacks. Those extra calories aren’t needed.

My fun with smoothies has rubbed off on other people. My brother, Peter, tried one of my smoothies last year and complimented me on it. When I showed him how easy it is to make, he decided to try it at home.

Smoothies hit the spot in the summer on hot days but I’ve found that any day of the year is absolutely a good day for a smoothie.

There Are No Social Security Marriage Penalties

BY TOM MARGENAU

I frequently get questions from soonto-be retirees who have heard about a “family maximum” that applies to Social Security benefits, and they are afraid that rule will reduce the benefits they are due as a couple. Or similarly, they have been told there is some kind of marriage penalty associated with the payment of benefits to married couples.

So here is the message of this column: The family maximum rules do not apply to a husband and wife getting Social Security benefits all by themselves. And there is no marriage penalty for couples who are each getting their own Social Security benefit.

Let’s start with the so-called family maximum rules. Although those rules exist, they only come into play when children are involved. That usually means cases involving children getting benefits on a deceased parent’s account. Or it can mean limiting benefits to families of someone getting Social Security disability benefits. And it also can occasionally apply to retirees who still have dependent children in their care. When this does happen, it’s frequently because a retiree has an adult child who has been disabled since birth.

But again, the focus of today’s column is just a husband and wife with no minor or disabled children at home. Again: The family maximum rules do not apply to them. Here are questions from readers about this issue.

Q: I am waiting until age 70 to take my Social Security. So I will get about 130% of my Social Security benefit. Then my wife, who was a homemaker all her life, will file on my record, and she will get 50% of my benefit. So combined, we will get 180% of my Social Security benefit. But I’ve done some online research and learned something about a “PIA” that I think is some Social Security acronym for my Social Security benefit. And I’ve read that a family is limited to getting 150% of a PIA. So will benefits to my wife and I be cut to stay within that 150% limit?

A: No, they won’t. This family maximum stuff doesn’t affect a husband and wife getting benefits. I could just leave my answer at that, but I’ve also got to clarify some other statements you made. I normally don’t like to use SSA jargon in this column. But because you brought up the term “PIA,” I’ve got to explain more. PIA stands for “primary insurance amount”; in a nutshell, it’s essentially your full retirement age benefit. And that amount can never be more than a 100% rate. You are going to get a higher monthly benefit amount (up to 30% more) because you are delaying filing for Social Security until age 70. But again, your PIA, or full retirement age benefit rate, remains at that 100% rate.

And your wife is going to get an amount

equal to 50% of your PIA: So, on paper, you and your wife will get combined benefits equal to 150% of your PIA. And that’s true even though your actual benefit will be more, because you are waiting until age 70 to file. And that 150% rate does not exceed the lowest family max rate (which is 150%).

Q: I am taking my benefits at full retirement age. I am married to a woman who hasn’t worked very much, so she is going to be getting half of my Social Security. But I also have an exwife who hasn’t remarried and also didn’t work very much, so she will be getting half of my Social Security, too. So I’m going to get 100%. My wife will get 50%. And my ex will also get 50%. That’s 200% combined, and that exceeds what I’ve been told is the 150% maximum that can be paid to my family. So how do they make these adjustments to get down to the 150% rate?

A: No adjustments will be needed. Any benefits paid to an ex-wife are just “addon” benefits. They don’t affect the benefits you and your current wife are due, and they also don’t affect this family maximum business.

And here is a question about the alleged marriage penalty that many people have heard applies to couples getting Social Security benefits.

Q: My wife and I both plan to take our benefits at age 70 at the end of the year. I am estimated to get $3,444 per month, and my wife will get $3,100. But there are two things we’ve heard about Social Security that scare us. We’ve been told there is some kind of maximum that applies to what we will be able to receive. And we’ve also been told there is a marriage penalty with Social Security that limits what my wife can get to one-half of my benefit rate. Please help us understand this.

A: As I’ve explained in this column, th family maximum rules do not apply to married couples. And there is no “marriage penalty” associated with Social Security. You mentioned a wife being limited to half of her husband’s Social Security. That would be a wife who does not have her own Social Security benefit, or who has a very small benefit on her own record and is therefore eligible for a dependent wife’s benefit from her husband’s account. Those spousal benefits are limited to the 50% rate. But you and your wife are each getting your own retirement benefit: $3,444 for you and $3,100 for your wife. So combined, you will get $6,544 in monthly Social Security benefits. There is no Social Security rule that limits what a husband and wife can get if they each are getting their own Social Security benefit.

A

SPECIAL NOTE TO MY READERS

I pride myself of answering all the questions that my readers email to me. But I recently goofed up and accidentally deleted several days’ worth of emails. So if you sent me a question in the past couple weeks and did not get a response from me,

please resend your email. My apologies for the inconvenience.

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

Verifying permits and COs will save you from buying a money pit

I wish everyone a healthy, happy, enjoyable, and fun JULY 4TH holiday weekend!

You’ve looked at 30-plus homes and are getting a bit concerned, tired, and depressed that you have not secured a home. You think you have a deal and then get outbid. Worst of all, suddenly right before you sign your contract, another offer is provided that is not subject to an inspection and is waving the mortgage contingency. Your offer is subject to mortgage approval and an inspection. It’s disappointing and challenging that you aren’t in a position to waive those important items. You are now experiencing what many purchasers lately are experiencing over the last few years; as many are losing their deals for the former and latter reasons and there is nothing you can do about it. Frustration sets in and now you are seriously contemplating leaving the area altogether and possibly moving out of NYS to another state with lower costs, no state income taxes, and just an easier lifestyle.

All of a sudden your agent calls you on a property that fits your specific “needs and wants” and you immediately rush out and go take a look. In this market, there is a need for speed in securing a home. But wait, have you or your agent researched to be sure everything, including bathrooms, extensions, and other additions have the proper permits and completed certificate of occupancies?

I happened to have taken my clients to a home in Queens. Everything fit their particulars. But wait, the complete second-floor extension had no CO and neither did the rear deck. So you know the end to that story. You must be cognizant and aware of homes that have added some wonderful things but without the proper permits or final COs you could have a problem with the legality of the home and a challenge getting approved on your mortgage. I

in wheat, barley and rye. In people with the autoimmune condition celiac disease, gluten damages the lining of the intestines, leading to malabsorption and potentially serious health consequences. People who have adverse reactions (stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, brain fog) when they consume gluten but test negative for celiac disease may have what’s identified as non-celiac gluten sensitivity. For the rest of us, there is no reason to avoid gluten. Whole-grain products with gluten (whole wheat bread, whole grain crackers) contain fiber and other vitamins and minerals

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

do understand that filing for permits, puts your home out there and that you are improving it to the extent of either adding more living space, a deck, a finished basement, new windows, a roof, etc. No one wants to pay more real estate taxes as they are already high enough, along with prices, causing so many baby boomers, millennials, GenZ, and GenX to flee to other less costly locations. For some, the cost of living is becoming so excessive and out of control, that people are throwing in the towel and just abandoning the prospect of purchasing, staying in their rentals or inlaws’ homes, or worst-case scenario, just picking up and leaving altogether. But if you are serious and planning to stay and purchase, the consequences of not having the proper permits and COs could be very costly in the long run.

obvious in Washington D.C.. I don’t think they work for us any longer as this “brain drain” has been happening for almost 40 years. It’s time everyone begins a serious dialogue to solve and remedy this dire situation. If we don’t we will be left with a further lack of employees for those jobs that most of us do not and will not consider performing. Service jobs are part of the lifeblood of Long Island and the surrounding areas. Without viable help and solutions, businesses will suffer a greater loss of income than what is occurring today.

was completed legally with permits and has a final certificate of occupancy. Some will waive or not consider worrying about those most critical pieces of paperwork until they have to sell in the future and then it will potentially hit them in their pocketbook. Don’t put yourself in a position to buy a “money pit” as the adage is “Don’t be pennywise and pound foolish.”

Currently, the U.S. is short 6,000,000 homes, and each year we need a minimum of 2,000,000 homes to satisfy the demand of those entering the market and have begun their families or partnerships and can purchase to build their future wealth.

It just feels that part of our problem with the lack of adequate housing rests with our politicians locally and up in Albany. They are not working together cohesively and with a bi-partisan attitude and mindset to have pragmatic and reasonable solutions. When they try to accomplish something the other side or local politicians balk at an idea; instead of fine-tuning that idea or concept to create a reasonable solution. There will never be a resolution that will be agreeable and please everyone. However, we desperately need much more housing. No one party wants the other to win; this is also

that are needed for a healthy diet.

RECIPE

As the temperature rises outdoors, our grill gets a workout. Here’s a recipe from Good Housekeeping magazine that takes advantage of the grill and summer’s bountiful peach crop. Here in Illinois, we count the days until peaches from our own Calhoun County are ripe. This grilled peach caprese is a twist on the traditional tomato caprese.

GRILLED PEACH CAPRESE

2 peaches, each cut into 8 wedges

2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 1 1/2

For many, it has become a real pain in the butt and quite frustrating to find even a starter home that always has proper permits and certificates of occupancy. Some did improvements and upgrades before, not thinking they needed to file the proper paperwork and maybe relied on their contractors to perform this task, but didn’t! But then again, avoiding increased real estate taxes is most likely the main reason. We are at a tipping point and I am convinced that New York State will continue to lose its younger generations as well as its older population. This will continue to have a major effect on our tax base and potentially our sales taxes too! More important is the SALT Tax ex-President Trump initiated, mainly against the blue states where real estate taxes have been the highest. You can still only deduct a maximum of $10,000 of your real estate, sales, and local taxes. However, there is a perfectly legal way to increase your deductions, which I won’t elaborate on here; so call me for a consultation to discuss further.

Lastly, when considering a home, you must ask as many questions as necessary to be sure any work done

tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon honey

Kosher salt and pepper

1/4 cup roasted almonds, chopped 12 ounces fresh mozzarella

1/4 cup fresh basil, torn, plus small leaves for serving

Heat grill to medium-high. Brush peaches with 2 teaspoons oil and grill until grill marks appear, about 1 minute per side. Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Whisk until honey dissolves. Whisk in remaining 2 tablespoons oil; stir in

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

lemon zest and almonds. Slice mozzarella, arrange on platter and top with peaches. Fold basil into almond mixture and spoon over peaches. Sprinkle with cracked pepper and small basil leaves, if desired. Per serving: 325 calories; 14 grams protein; 9 grams carbohydrate; 28 grams fat; 2 grams fiber; 135 milligrams sodium.

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

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Drink Tap Water for Your Health ... and Wealth!

BY MARY HUNT

It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly when it happened, but sometime over the past decade or so, the general population of this country formed a belief that bottled water is better than tap -- safer and healthier, too. It is easy to figure out where this idea originated. It was with bottled water suppliers. It was pretty ingenious to convince otherwise normal people to pay between 240 and 10,000 times more to purchase water in a bottle than to get it from the supply we’re already paying for that comes out of the taps in our homes.

TAP WATER IS CHEAPER

These days a 16-ounce bottle of “spring” water goes for about a dollar. That’s $8 a gallon -- twice the cost of milk, about on par with soft drinks purchased in the same manner. Home delivery of water in those great big, heavy bottles is less per gallon but still around $40 a month, according to online averages.

The average cost of town water for U.S. households typically ranges from $1.50 to $3 per cubic meter. This cost can vary widely depending on the location,

local water utility rates and the specific pricing structure of the area. One cubic meter equals 265 gallons, or 4,240 8-ounce glasses of water -- enough to last the average person 530 days (consuming eight 8-ounce glasses per day). Another way to price it: Sixty-two 8-ounce glasses of water cost about 4 cents.

TAP WATER IS SAFER

This may startle you, but it is absolutely true: Tap water is safer than bottled

water. How could that be? The reason is simple. The U.S. water supply is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency under very strict guidelines and heavily enforced rules. Bottled water is subject to Food and Drug Administration rules, which are far less stringent. For example, tap water by law requires disinfection. Testing for bacteria must be conducted hundreds of times a month. On the other hand, bottled water is not required to be disinfected; bacteria testing is performed fewer than five times per month.

TAP WATER IS HEALTHIER

Tooth decay in children is making a big comeback. The culprit? Bottled water. It’s not the water that’s causing the decay, according to the World Dental Congress. It’s the lack of fluoride. Parents believe they are giving their children a superior product in bottled water, but in fact they are depriving kids of the fluoride and minerals they need to build healthy teeth and bodies. Fluoridation, present in most public water supplies, has become recognized as a key intervention in tooth decay.

So, the next time you feel thirsty, don’t reach for a bottle. Instead turn on the tap. You’ll be drinking water that is just as safe -- or safer -- than bottled and saving money, too. Get the kids to switch, and you also just might head off big dental bills down the road.

Pro Tip: Don’t like the taste of your tap water? Invest in a filter pitcher such as ZeroWater or Britta, or install an inexpensive faucet filter.

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

Ingenious Ways to Beat Frustration (and Save Money, Too)

BY MARY HUNT

Secretly, I feel like a genius when I discover a secondary use for this or that -- in case I run out of this but have plenty of that. Like using a paper coffee filter to wash a glass top or mirror when I’m in a pinch for paper towels. Or using a paper towel to create a coffee filter when I discover at the worst moment that we’re out of filters! You’re going to feel like a genius, too, once you read today’s tips from ingenious readers about ways that they save time and money every day.

‘OPEN FIRST’ BOX

As a military family, whenever the movers arrived to move us to the next assignment, I always had one box I marked “Open First.” In it were bed sheets, towels, soap, a coffee maker and a toaster. No matter how late we arrived at our new

home, we didn’t have to spend another night in a hotel. We could make our beds, get cleaned up and start the next day with coffee and toast without having to open multiple boxes looking for stuff. -- Cindy, Ontario, Canada

SAFE LOCK SPRAY

So as not to damage your locks in the long term, use only a graphite-based spray to keep your locks from sticking in all weather conditions. We use LockEase brand, after finding that many other brands can cause damage at greater cost! -- Kathie, South Carolina

DOGGIE BAGS

My husband and I love to host dinner parties for our family and friends. I like to send leftovers home with our guests in repurposed gift bags (from birthday parties, etc.). The bags add a bit of charm and are much more tidy and pleasant-looking

than a plastic grocery bag. -- Maggie, Ohio SHOUT IT OFF

Even after trying oven cleaner, stove door cleaner and other products, we could not get rid of the crud on the glass front of our wood stove. Finally, we found the solution! We place newspapers on the floor under the open doors and spray full-strength Shout Triple Acting laundry stain remover on the glass. Let soak for 5 to 10 minutes. Using a single-edge razor blade, scrape the black off the glass. Spray again lightly and wipe with a paper towel. Works like a charm! -- Lyle, email

BREAKFAST RICE

Leftover cooked rice serves as a wonderful hot cereal. Steam the rice with a little bit of water, and then serve with milk, chopped nuts and raisins or some other dried fruit. My children love it and frequently ask for breakfast rice. -- Gigi, California

SUPER CORD

I save a lot of time vacuuming my large home since purchasing a 50-foot extension cord that I keep coiled up in an attractive wicker basket. Now I can vacuum almost the entire house without retracing my steps or taking time to unplug and replug my vacuum cleaner. -- Linda, Michigan

SUPER

CLEAN!

Can’t get the stovetop burner pans

clean? Try this: Fill a big pot with water. Add about 4 tablespoons of baking soda and a few squirts of dishwashing soap. Place the stained burner pans in the water and bring to a boil, making sure the suds do not boil over. Allow them to boil gently until all the baked-on spots are removed. Rinse the pans and wipe clean. They will sparkle like new. -- Nicole, South Carolina

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

STARGAZERS

Antares and the Celestial Arachnid

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of July 7-13, 2024

While you may have become frustrated trying to see a lion, a hunter or an eagle among the stars, there is one star grouping that is quite easy to recognize. You can find it low in the southern sky after dark on early summer evenings.

We know it as Scorpius, the scorpion, and it doesn’t require much imagination to trace its stars into the outline of its namesake. You’ll have little trouble finding it; several stars outline its claws at the top, and a long, curving stellar arc traces its tail, complete with a stinger at its very tip.

This image is one of the oldest of all Egyptian hieroglyphics, and it appears in inscriptions pre-dating the third millennium BC. Depending on where one lived in the ancient world, however, it might have been known by a different name.

Ancient Chinese sky watchers, for example, knew the stars in this area as part of the large and regal figure of the Azure Dragon, or Dragon of the East. And islanders of the South Pacific, who had never seen a scorpion, imagined it instead as the giant fishhook that pulled the islands from the sea. Both make sense to me.

Why this occurs presents a great example of how the ancient Greeks invented stories to explain just about everything. To them, Scorpius represented the creature whose sting caused the death of the great hunter Orion, a prominent celestial symbol of winter. So, as the story goes, when the gods placed these characters in the heavens, they moved them to opposite sides of the sky so there’d be no trouble between the two.

The brightest star in Scorpius is Antares (ant-AIR-eez), a reddish-orange star that marks the heart of the great stellar scorpion. It too has an ancient history, extending back some five millennia, when Persian sky watchers saw it as one of their four “royal stars.” Even the ancient Egyptians aligned temples with this star to make it part of their ceremonies.

Today we know Antares lies 550 light years distant -- that’s 3,300 trillion miles -- and yet it appears as one of the brightest stars in the sky. Our sun, by comparison -- if moved only 20 light years from us -- would be barely visible to the unaided eye. So why should Antares appear so bright in our sky? With only a little thought you’ll come up with the answer. ...

Because it’s big. Very big. OK, it’s humongous! If Antares replaced the

After locating Scorpius, you may find yourself gazing around the sky in search of the constellation Orion, but you’ll discover it’s nowhere to be found. That’s because when Scorpius is in our sky, Orion is not. And vice versa.

sun at the center of our solar system, it would not only engulf the sun but also the orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars, and would stretch halfway to Jupiter! This is why astronomers call it a red supergiant star, though I suspect “red behemoth” might be a more suitable descriptor!

I hope you’ll be able to get out under the stars this summer to become acquainted with this amazingly beautiful celestial arachnid!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

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A Wolf in Mom’s Clothing

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

“I think I’m turning into a werewolf,” I told my dermatologist as I sat on the examining table in her office. There were posters on the wall and pamphlets for the treatment of wrinkles and fat, but nothing for werewolves.

“Why do you think that?” she said, peering at my pores. A thankless job if ever there was one.

“I’m starting to grow hair everywhere,” I told her.

“Do you howl at the moon at night?” she asked.

“No.”

“Then I think you’re OK.”

I was surprised she took this news so lightly. When I hit my fifties, I wasn’t completely shocked when I sprouted a few chin hairs. I’d heard tales from other women about how aging could suddenly cause a plethora of unwanted bodily changes. But no one had ever men-

tioned things like sudden hair growth on my toe knuckles, and wrinkles on my knees. I mean, who gets wrinkles on their knees besides elephants and rhinos? Maybe I wasn’t actually turning into a werewolf, I thought. Maybe I was turning into a woolly mammoth instead.

After I got home from the dermatologist, I called a friend who was the smartest person my age I knew -- not a certified specialist in anything, but she had an encyclopedic knowledge of every inane thing on the planet.

“I’m growing hair on my toes, and I have wrinkled knees,” I told her. “What the heck is going on?”

“You have kninkles?” she said.

“What?”

“Kninkles,” she repeated. “Knee wrinkles.”

“They really have a name for that?”

“Sure. It’s a thing.”

“I don’t know why my dermatologist

didn’t tell me about this,” I said.

“Well, it’s a Hollywood thing,” she said. “Don’t worry. You can get treatment for that.”

I shuddered to think how they could remove my knee wrinkles with anything other than a clothes iron.

“You’re the same age as me. Do you have kninkles?”

“No. I have cankles.”

“Is that a Hollywood thing too?”

“No. It’s a retirement community thing.”

“There’s something to look forward to,” I replied.

“I also have a problem with my weenus,” she said.

“Excuse me? Your what?”

“My weenus. It’s the loose skin around your elbow. I have a lot of it.”

As we spoke, I realized somewhat comfortingly that I wasn’t alone with my aging issues. I also realized there were a lot of dumb body terms. But most

importantly, I realized I could either fight an expensive, unwinnable fight to try to beat the clock, or I could accept these natural changes with acceptance and grace. There were a lot of women out there who looked gorgeous with their gray hair and smile lines. Not too many who looked great with beards, though.

“I think I can live with the kninkles,” I told her. “And I can pluck the chin hairs. But what about the hair on my toes?”

“That’s a Neanderthal thing,” she said. “Can’t help you there.”

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.

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The constellation Scorpius’s brightest star is Antares, a red supergiant.

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Impress guests with smoked short ribs

Smoked Beef Short Ribs

Smoked foods are wildly popular. The unique flavor that smoking imparts to anything from beef to poultry to seafood to vegetables is impossible to

Spritz

1⁄4 cup beef broth

1⁄4 cup soy sauce

1 spray bottle

1⁄2 cup water

1. Remove the beef ribs 1 hour prior to smoking. This will give the meat time to reach room temperature for more even cooking and allow the rub to adhere better. Trim off any extra thick fat and silver skin from the top of the short ribs. You can remove all of the fat, but I keep a thin layer for protection and added flavor. Slather the mayonnaise evenly over the entire surface of the beef ribs. Mix dry rub ingredients in a bowl and sprinkle evenly over the ribs. You’ll want a heavy coating of the rub to help build a nice bark on the outside of the beef short ribs. The ribs are thick, so even a lot of rub won’t overpower them.

2. Preheat the grill to 250° F.

3. Place short ribs on the grill and smoke at 250° F until it hits an internal temperature of around 175° F in the thickest part of the meat, approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on the size. I recommend using a good leave-in meat thermometer so you don’t have to constantly check the short ribs. We’re looking for a nice

replicate with other cooking methods, which perhaps contributes to its popularity.

As hosts prepare to welcome friends and family for barbe-

Main

5 pounds beef short ribs

2 sheets butcher paper

1½ tablespoons mayo

bark to have formed before we wrap the short ribs. If your bark isn’t where you’d like it to be yet, keep smoking for an additional hour or so to help the bark form.

4. Combine the spritz ingredients and place in spray bottle. Each hour after the first 3 hours or once the bark starts looking dry, open up the smoker and spritz the beef short ribs. Make sure your spray bottle is set to spray in a light, even mist and not a direct blast of the liquid. You just want to moisten the short ribs, not soak them.

5. When the bark has formed and the smoked short ribs hit our target temperature of at least 175° F, remove them from the smoker, lay them in the center of 2 pieces of partially overlapped butcher paper (lengthwise), and then wrap tightly around the ribs. You can spritz the butcher paper a few times to help it form a tighter wrap around the beef short ribs. If you don’t have butcher paper, you can use heavy duty aluminum foil instead. Just note, the bark

cue, they can cook to impress with this recipe for “Smoked Beef Short Ribs” courtesy of Allen Kiezel of Fatty Butts BBQ and KamadoJoe.com. Serves 3

Dry Rub

3 tablespoons black pepper

1½ tablespoons garlic powder

3 tablespoons seasoned salt

will be a little mushy when it’s done, as it’s not permeable like butcher paper and will partially steam it.

6. Return to the grill, insert the meat probe again, and smoke at 250° F for approximately 4 more hours. The smoked beef short ribs are done when the internal temperature is around 205° F to 208° F and the meat thermometer slides in and out like a knife slicing through room temperature butter —barely any resistance. I find that this usually occurs around 205° F, but all meat is different. Remember to take the temperature in a few places as the short ribs tend to cook slower in larger areas.

7. Remove the smoked beef short ribs from grill and keep wrapped while it rests for a minimum of 1 hour. If you need to keep the meat warmer even longer, place them inside of a good cooler for up to 4 hours.

8. Slice the short ribs between each bone and serve with the bone or slice into smaller portions and share. Enjoy!

“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 official 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 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 HS celebrates Class of 2024 graduation

On June 26, Bethpage High School held its Class of 2024 graduation ceremony outdoors on the football field. The event was a memorable occasion, marked by a blend of tradition, heartfelt speeches, and the excitement of new beginnings.

The graduates, led onto the field by Superintendent David Schneider and Principal Nicholas Jantz, were greeted with the stirring strains of “Pomp and Circumstance” played by the Bethpage High School band. As they marched in, many students showcased their creativity with uniquely decorated caps, highlighting their future schools and personal achievements. From the stands, family and friends applauded, their cheers echoing across the field in support of the graduates.

The ceremony kicked off with an electrifying rendition of the national anthem performed by senior Matthew Schneider on guitar, setting an inspiring tone for the evening. Following this, Daniela Cross, the senior class president, delivered the first speech. She

was succeeded by Ellie Park, student council president, Ryan O’Connell, the salutatorian, and Zoe Chinda, the valedictorian. Superintendent David Schneider and Principal Nicholas Jantz also addressed the graduates, imparting wisdom and encouragement.

Zoe Chinda’s valedictorian speech resonated deeply with the audience as she quoted her all-time favorite song, “Vienna” by Billy Joel: "Slow down, you’re doing fine. You can’t be everything you want to be before your time." She continued, “As my favorite lyric from ‘Vienna’ goes, ‘Don’t you know that only fools are satisfied?’

Graduates, as harsh as it sounds, I hope that in life you remain a bit unsatisfied. I hope that you seek out the ‘mores’ of life. There is always more to find, more to learn, more to love, more untried paths, and more unopened doors. Don’t settle for satisfaction, strive for excellence.”

Superintendent David Schneider also delivered a powerful message:

“Never forget how powerful your voices can be in front of others. Use your voices to uplift others, to bring people together. Use your voices to challenge and create, so that you can make a lasting impact on this world. Do not underestimate the impact that a single voice can have, as history is filled with examples of individuals who, through their courage and conviction, have brought about significant change. As Theodore Roosevelt once said, ‘Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.’”

After the speeches, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived—the presentation of diplomas. One by one, the graduates crossed the stage, receiving their diplomas and shaking hands with the school’s leaders. Following this, Principal Nicholas Jantz officially pronounced them graduates of Bethpage High School. In a jubilant display of accomplishment, the students moved their tassels from right to left and tossed their caps into the air, celebrating their success and the end of an era.

The Bethpage High School band played the recessional as the newly graduated Class of 2024 exited the field, ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives.

The Class of 2024 celebrate graduation by tossing their caps into the air.

Zoe Chinda delivers the valedictory speech.

Senior Matthew Schneider plays the national anthem on electric guitar.

Students show off their diplomas.

Superintendent of Schools Mr. David Schneider addresses the graduates.

Photos courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

JFK High School holds commencement for Class of 2024

On June 23, Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School celebrated its 33rd annual commencement ceremony at Hofstra University’s David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Center. Dressed in blue caps and gowns, the senior class marched onto the floor as the symphonic band performed “Pomp and Circumstance,” under the direction of Mr. Brian Carter.

The ceremony began with the national anthem, performed by the senior choir and interpreted by senior American Sign Language students. Principal Dr. Heather Dvorak then welcomed students, guests and dignitaries before inviting Board of Education trustee Mrs. Lauren Sackstein to address the attendees.

She addressed students and expressed hope in this generation of future leaders the world needs. “Be the leaders I know that you already are and can continue to be,” she said. “Whether you gathered food for a family in need, raised funds for a POB family in crisis, collected shoes for those who cannot buy their own, or sending supplies to war-torn areas and humanitarian efforts – small steps lead to big accomplishments. Small acts of kindness lead to bigger moments.”

Salutatorian Matthew Kang spoke next and asked his class to sit through one last lesson. He asked them to help those around them. “Going forward, I hope that all of us do the best we can to demonstrate compassion and care for those around us,” he said. “Famous American poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, ‘...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded!’ I know that many of you have helped those around you. Continue doing so. If not, think about how you can help someone in their life. That is a great

Syosset student earns prestigious BOCES award

idea of success.”

Valedictorian Safal Kamath began his address thanking guests and family members and implored them to never focus too much on the past or future. “Oftentimes, we become too focused on what was and what will be. When you came to this building, as I’m giving this speech, and as we get our diplomas and graduate high school, time is ticking away,” he said. “So, live in the present, because you never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”

The senior choir  performed “A Parting Blessing” which expressed their feelings for their fellow graduates. Class President, Samantha Graf, then addressed the attendees. “As we look to the future, all of our paths are unclear,” she said. “This may be scary but I can promise all of you today that the hard work, kindness, and friendship that got us through the past four years can and will get us through many more.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mary  O’Meara was next to speak. “By focusing on who you want to become rather than what you want to become you will build a collection of days that will result in a life of integrity and a legacy that inspires others,” she said. “Your journey is just beginning, go forth and make it extraordinary.”

Finally, Dr. Dvorak offered her congratulations. “I would wish you luck, but you do not need it,” she said. “Instead, Class of 2024, I hope for you a lifetime of endless possibilities from which to choose.”

Students were called by name as the Board of Education presented them with their diplomas and were officially declared graduates of Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School.

Ava Pacicca of Syosset, who attends Nassau BOCES Barry Tech, is congratulated on earning the George Farber Outstanding Student Award by Nassau BOCES Board President Susan Bergtraum (third from left), Deputy Superintendent/Chief Operating Officer James Widmer (left), and a host of administrators, teachers, friends and family at the recent award ceremony.

Ava Pacicca of Syosset, who attends the Nassau BOCES Barry Tech career and technical education high school, earned the prestigious George Farber Outstanding Student Award this year. The award celebrates a variety of Ms. Pacicca’s remarkable attributes including passion, perseverance, enthusiasm, outstanding character, scholarship and a willingness to help others. She was honored for the achievement by administrators and members of the Nassau BOCES Board during a special awards ceremony this spring.

Ava Pacicca is highly motivated, driven, diligent, and has a plan to succeed. She has a great passion for construction and has demonstrated impressive skill in the field. The supervisors of a local construction company, who oversee Ava’s work-based internship, say that she demonstrates a respectable work ethic, is always prepared, asks insightful questions, and is willing to learn and practice new skills.

While Ms. Pacicca works well independently, she is open to collaborating on new projects and ideas, and enjoys working on community ventures with her con-

struction trades class. She earned special recognition from the Nassau County SPCA for a four-bowl doggy stand that she painstakingly created and donated to the organization. Ms. Pacicca also worked with her instructor on a summer project to give back to Nassau BOCES, building a kitchen tor one of the agency’s schools.

“Ava Pacicca is a remarkably talented student,” wrote her award nominator. “While she is academically and professionally ambitious, she is also very sociable and approachable, and always willing to help a classmate. She appreciates the opportunities she has had, and has consistently made the most of them. I am certain that Ava’s confidence and creativity, combined with her impressive skill sets, ensure her of a successful future.”

For the past 16 years, outstanding students have been earning this award in memory of former Nassau BOCES Board President George Farber, whose passion for improving the lives of students was surpassed only by his love and care for them. Farber was the longest-serving board member in Nassau County, having served from 1971 to 2009.

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Valedictorian Safal Kamath and Salutatorian Matthew Kang.

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