Students at Jonas E. Salk Middle School in the Levittown School District participated in a special experience as they held discussions with veterans in observance of Veterans Day on Nov. 8. See page 6. Photo courtesy Levittown Public Schools
Pedestrian hit on Jerusalem Ave.
A pedestrian was hit by a pickup truck on Wednesday, November 13, at 5:56 p.m. on Jerusalem Avenue in Hicksville.
According to Nassau County detectives, a 64 year old male was operating a 2005 Nissan pickup truck southbound on Jerusalem Avenue in the vicinity of Nelson Avenue when he collided with a 59-year-old male pedestrian who was crossing the road.
The pedestrian sustained numerous injuries and was transported to an area hospital where he is listed in stable condition. The driver of the vehicle remained at scene. No other injuries were reported.
The Bethpage Newsgram is published every Friday by Litmor Publishing Corp. 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
It was a special day last Wednesday as elementary school students in Bethpage were treated to a visit from an acclaimed children’s author. Alicia Klepeis, an author of over 190 children’s books, payed a visit to the schools to discuss her inspiration for her many novels.
Phyllis Ivers, school librarian at Charles Campagne Elementary School, helped to arrange the author’s visit to the districts elementary schools.
“Every year we have a children’s author come to the district to discuss their fiction or nonfiction works’l said Ivers. “This year we invited author,
Alicia Klepeis, to talk about her books to all of the different grade levels in the school.”
Klepeis, whose works include ‘Secrets of the Ocean,’ and ‘Gutsy Girls go for Science Astronauts,’ discussed her nonfiction books with the 2nd through 5th graders and her fiction series with kindergartners and 1st graders.
“She talked about how she came up with the ideas for her fictional animals and held a puppet show for the younger classes,” said Ivers. “With the older kids she discussed how she goes through the process of researching and interviewing people for all of her nonfiction
See page 8
A selection of Alicia Klepeis’ books was displayed on a table for students to explore.
One-stop Passport Weekend at Town Hall
To help residents looking to obtain new passports, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced that his office will offer a special onestop Passport Weekend on Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa.
"Residents looking to apply for a new passport are invited to visit Town Hall during Passport Weekend to receive assistance," said Town Clerk LaMarca. "We can help you with organizing your documents, obtaining a photo and submitting the documents for approval."
Requirements for applying for a passport include:
Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship.
• Proof of IdentityNaturalization Certificate, Valid Driver's License (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents).
• This service does NOT apply to Adult Renewals unless your Passport is expired for 5+ years.
Town Clerk LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa. Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and during this special Passport Weekend. For appointments in Oyster Bay, please call (516) 624-6324. For appointments in Massapequa,
Holiday Tree Lighting planned for December 2
The Levittown Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its Holiday Tree Lighting on Monday, December 2, at 6 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park in front of the Levittown Public Library. Enjoy this annual evening of entertainment with local schools, dance studios, and community groups performing. Santa and his helpers are expected
to visit as the tree lighting takes place. Admission is free, but the Levittown Chamber is accepting donations of non-perishable food items and toiletries for local residents in need. In the event of extreme weather conditions, please check the Levittown Chamber of Commerce website at www. levitownchamber.com for details.
Model Train Show to benefit
OB Railroad Museum
WE
Trainville Hobby Depot will host a Model Train Show on Saturday, November 23, and Sunday, November 24, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, located at 28 West Carl Street in Hicksville.
For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit www.travel.state.gov.
The Model Train Show includes operating model layouts coordinated by Trainville Hobby Depot. Charitable donations are being accepted at the exhibit to support the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum.
“We are pleased to partner with Trainville Hobby Depot, who coordinates or participates in many hobby shows that benefit the fundraising efforts of a sponsoring organization,”
said Oyste rBay Town Clerk LaMarca. “Assisting groups that not only bring a fun and educational experience to residents of all ages, but also help preserve our history in understanding the railroad’s role in our heritage, is a great cause.”
Area train club are invited to display operating model layouts, including N, O, HO, On30, and G scales.
Admission in to the exhibit is $5, children ages 4–11 years are $3 and entry for children under the age of 4 is free. For further information, please visit www.trainville.com or call (516) 433-4444.
Craft and Vendor Market at St. Bernard’s
St. Bernard's will be holding a Craft and Vendor Market on Saturday, November 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Enjoy shopping for:
• Christas decorations
• Sports memorabilia
• Jewelry
• Woodcrafts
• Books & paintings
• Candles
• Tumblers and resin art
• Wood lasered items
• Placemats and pillows
• Baked goods
• Jams and jellies
• Floral crafts
• Religious crafts
• Color Street nails
• Leather products
• License plate designs
• Journals and paper crafts
• Fresh cut wreaths
St. Bernard's is located at 3100 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown.
Syosset student named Scholar Artist
Janice Lee of the Syosset CSD, who is a visual arts student at Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts (LIHSA), has been named a Scholar Artist by the Long Island Arts Alliance (LIAA). She is among only 40 students from across the Island to be honored with prestigious awards in the 2024-2025 Scholar-Artist competition and to be profiled in Newsday.
There are a great many things Janice loves about LIHSA; the diversity of courses, the nurturing atmosphere, the dynamic classroom environments, and the opportunity to develop her artistic skills all near the top of her list. But the best thing about the school, according to Janice, is its faculty. “My teacher is the absolute best,” she said. “Not only does he make the class fun, he inspires me every day and never fails to brighten my day.”
More than that, her teachers have helped her to find her direction. “They
have encouraged me to follow my dreams, and to discover a career that I truly love and enjoy,” Janice said. “When you’re passionate about what you do in life, it ceases to become work.”
To that end, she plans to attend an arts college in New York City, and is currently considering both the Pratt Institute and Parsons School of Design. From there, she intends to pursue a career in in the art industry, either in design, photography or both.
“LIHSA has laid the groundwork for my future success by empowering me to become a more well-rounded visual artist,” Janice said. “Visual Arts has always been my passion, but LIHSA has taught me the importance of dedication and hard work. Without this experience, I wouldn't be where I am today.”
When asked what being named a Scholar-Artist means to her, Janice responded, “Receiving this award is both an honor, and an acknowledge-
Attention students!
ment of the dedication and hard work I have put into both my academics and my art. It has encouraged me to push myself even further in both areas,” she added. “I have seen enormous improvements in my skills over the course of my time here. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to study something that I truly love.”
Janice earned her status in the Scholar-Artist program by demonstrating the highest level of artistic excellence, and performing at an outstanding level of academic achievement (a grade point average of 90 or above). Candidates are evaluated based on performances, a portfolio of their work and a written essay about how the arts have enriched their lives. Winners are chosen by a committee of arts educators and other professionals, with the final selection being made by a separate steering committee.
Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA? Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity? We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!
Janice Lee
Police arrest four for weapons possession
Nassau County Police arrested four people for alleged criminal possession of a weapon on Saturday, November 16th at 11:20 p.m. in Bethpage.
According to Detectives, Criminal Intelligence Rapid Response Team (CIRRT) officers observed a 2023 Dodge Ram U-Haul van, traveling westbound on Hempstead Turnpike making an unsafe lane change. During a traffic stop, police say they found a loaded SCCY 9mm firearm and a substance believed to be crack cocaine inside the vehicle. The driver and passengers were placed under arrest without incident.
Jasmine Johnson, 26, of Hempstead was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Firearm.
Victor S. Garrison Jr, 24, of Freeport was charged with Criminal Possession
of a Weapon 2nd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, four counts of Criminal Contempt 2nd Degree and Vehicle and Traffic Law Violations. Garrison was the driver.
A male juvenile, 17, is charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm.
Jeffrey B. Pettaway, 61, of Wheatley Heights, was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th Degree. Subsequent to the investigation, police say they found Pettaway had open Nassau County Bench Warrants for Criminal Possession of a Coßntrolled Substance 5th Degree and for Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance 7th Degree.
Women bowlers needed
The Mercy Ladies Bowling League is looking for bowlers to participate in its league. The group bowls at Syosset Lanes on Fridays at 10 a.m.
The fee is $16 for three games and includes shoes and ball, as well as an end-ofseason luncheon.
For information, please call Delores at 516-931-4106.
Gun recovered during arrest
Victor S. Garrison, Jr,
Jeffrey B. Pettaway
Jasmine Johnson
Veterans share experience with Salk middle schoolers
Students at Jonas E. Salk Middle School in the Levittown School District participated in a special experience as they held deep discussions with veterans in observance of Veterans Day on Nov. 8.
Veterans who represent service during every major war since World War II stopped by Salk to meet with eight graders. Students in Samantha McKevitt and Robin Insana’s social studies classes were divided into groups to sit with veterans at tables in the library to facilitate meaningful discussions. Veterans shed light on their experiences during their service as students
engaged with thoughtful questions. Each small group held an intimate conversation as veterans showed photos, medals and gear that they used during their service. Eighth graders were not only thankful for their service, but also for making the stop to Salk.
“It’s very important for students to have the opportunity to speak to veterans,” Mrs. McKevitt said, adding that the foundation of the Levittown community has strong roots in the G.I. Bill of 1944.
Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools
Each eighth grade group held meaningful discussions with visiting veterans.
Veteran Peter Stasinski had students put on his service gear, including Bill Magno.
Jonas E. Salk Middle School eighth grader Justin Butts shook the hand of World War II veteran Gabriel Grenci during an observance of Veterans Day on Nov. 8.
Joseph Giglio brought his fatigues, which were donned by Khaleb Afanador.
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Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
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Children's author visits schools
Klepeis gave the students a number of actionable strategies to help them come up with ideas for their own writing.
From page 1
material.” Veronika Shapiro, a fourth grader at Charles Campagne, said she enjoyed how the author explained the process of writing her books.
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“I loved how she explained the whole process of writing and that she writes more than one book at the same time,” said Shapiro. “My favorite book of hers is Secrets of the Ocean.”
Azlan Chatriwala, a second grader, said, “my favorite part was when she told us about the stories she wrote about. “She was talking about all the different countries she discussed in her books and how McDonald’s is different in each country. I asked her about writing a book about my favorite soccer player, Ronaldo Messi, because my whole class would read it!” Madison Gibbs, a third grader, echoed her classmates sentiments, saying, “I never knew about this author before and now I will read her books and learn new things about the world!”
Each one of the students received a signed copy of a book from the author.
Julianne Inghilterra, principal at Charles Campagne said the PTA was instrumental in helping the students receive the signed copies.
“The PTA buys the books for each child and has the author sign every copy. It really is a special day for all of the children at the school.”
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November 22, 2024
Travel Companies Offer Biggest Savings of Year: More Black
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Take advantage of the biggest sales on travel of the year to gift your family, friends and yourself. Here are more Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Travel Tuesday deals:
Club Med, a pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, is offering its best discount of the year with its Black Friday sale, Nov. 19-Dec. 2, offering travelers up to 50% off winter, spring and summer getaways across its 70 all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. The deal includes up to $500 Instant Savings and free stays for kids under 4. Whether chasing Caribbean vibes at the luxurious Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda or mountain highs at Club Med Québec, your next adventure is in reach.
Additionally, the Black Friday sale extends to international resorts with up to $770 instant savings at Club Med favorites like the Exclusive Collection (5-star) Alpine ski resort Club Med Val d’Isere and the newly-renovated Club Med Gregolimano in Greece. Perks also include: Kids under 4 stay free; lift passes; and group ski and snowboard lessons for all levels, available for ages 4 and up.
North America Resorts: Enjoy 50% off, plus up to $500 Instant Savings per person/week when booking one of Club Med’s North American all-inclusive resorts, booked Nov. 19-Dec. 2 for travel Dec. 7, 2024 to June 27, 2025. Resorts include Club Med Punta Cana, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Club Med Cancún, Club Med Ixtapa, Club Med Québec Charlevoix, Club Med Turkoise, Club Med Columbus,
Friday/Cyber
Monday Deals
villas and one- and two-bedroom beachfront bungalows, all equipped with private pools, modern amenities. Book a five-night stay Nov. 19-Dec. 4 and receive a $500 resort credit per stay through December 25, 2025.
Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten: Book Nov. 29-Dec. 6 for a minimum two-night stay through Dec. 19, 2025 for 50% off standard room rates at the family friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa and adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort. (Use the code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout.)
Club Med La Caravelle, Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek.
International Resorts: Get up to $770 Instant Savings per person/week when booking one of Club Med’s international sun and mountain resorts booked Nov. 19-Dec. 2 for travel from Nov. 24, 2024-May 30, 2025.
Book: https://www.clubmed.us/o/ black-friday
Caribbean Hotels & Resorts
This year for Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday 2024, some 26 Saint Lucia resorts are offering discounts and perks up to 76% off. Deals include discounts on room rates, upgrades, resort credits, spa discounts and more. Options include family-focused hotels, luxury resorts, eco-hotels, wellness properties, villas, global brands and locally-owned boutique hotels. The offers can be found
at www.stlucia.org/en/offers-blackfriday-cyber-monday-2024
Alexandra Resort , Providenciales, Turks & Caicos: is an all-suite, all-inclusive resort located on world-renowned Grace Bay Beach. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 for stays from through December 25, 2025 for $200 resort credit per stay. Guests have access to sister-resort Blue Haven amenities. Its sister resort, Blue Haven Resort, is one of the newest and most private all-inclusive resorts in Turks and Caicos, accessible by a 1.5 hour flight from Miami. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 to save 10% and receive a $300 resort credit on travel through December 25, 2025. Guests have full access to both properties via regular shuttles.
Ambergris Cay, Turks & Caicos is a luxury private island resort with
Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas, features 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges with celebrity chef culinary masterpieces, including Fish by José Andrés, Nobu by Nobu Matsuhisa, and Paranza by Michael White, Aquaventure, one of the world’s largest waterparks, and a premier shopping destination. Book Nov. 27-Dec. 6 for 20-30% savings on travel Jan. 2-June 30, plus $150 Resort Credit for stays of 4+ nights Mexico Hotels & Resort Deals TAFER Hotels & Resorts luxury oceanfront properties in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos, Mexico are offering up to 45% off and up to $400 resort credit for all-inclusive stays booked Nov. 29-Dec. 15, as well as complimentary one-way airport transportation and free all-inclusive stays for children. Guests staying at the adults’ only Hotel Mousai Puerto Vallarta and Hotel Mousai Cancun will also receive a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival (www.taferresorts.com)
Casa Kimberly, Puerto Vallarta, the former love nest of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton turned nine-suite
Continued on next page
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda: Club Med is among the many hotel and travel companies offering Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Travel Tuesday deals (photo courtesy Club Med).
GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....
More Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals
Continued from previous page
boutique luxury hotel in Puerto Vallarta is offering the rare chance to get 50% off its magnificent suites for stays December 1, 2024-May 31, 2025 booked Nov. 29-Dec. 2. Use code CYBERCK.
International Hotels & Resort Deals
Corendon Hotels & Resorts, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Travelers who are part of the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program save up to 25% and non-members save up to 15% for bookings Nov. 26-Dec. 3 on stays from Dec. 1, 2024 and Jan. 20, 2025 booked directly on corendonhotels.com. The hotels include: The College Hotel, Autograph Collection, a five-star property is set in a historic building that once served as a school offering an intimate 40-room retreat in the heart of downtown Amsterdam,walking distance of popular museums, convenient public transportation, and elevated shopping. Corendon Amsterdam NewWest, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, a suburban gem in a vibrant area of Amsterdam, where guests can enjoy the largest hotel spa in The Netherlands as well as the exclusive 737 Suite, a bedroom housing a Boeing 737 cockpit alongside a king bed, living room, and kitchen. Corendon Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, conveniently located near Amsterdam’s largest international airport, featuringrooftop bar and restaurant, on-site movie theater, spa and unique amenities like a retired, full-size Boeing 747 that guests can tour.
Savings in the USA
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, which will celebrate its 45th anniversary in 2025,features awardwinning dining destinations, Drums of
the Pacific Luau, stargazing with a NASA Ambassador where guests can see 80 out of the 88 constellations, Maui’s only oceanfront, 15,000-square-foot luxury spa and fitness center, wildlife tours with penguins and birds, is offering up to 45% off minimum 5-night stays Jan. 1-Sept. 30, 2025, booked Nov. 28-Dec. 3 (use code BF2024).
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, SC: Book by Dec. 3 for stays through Mar. 31, 2025 for savings. Sonesta Travel Pass Members can save up to 30% with the promo code CYBER, while non-members can enjoy up to 20% off by using codes EXHCCYBER, BKCYBER or PLCYBER. In addition, take 15% off at the resort’s bar by applying the CYBER code.
National Hotel Miami Beach, in South Beach’s celebrated Art Deco neighborhood, offers guests an adults-only oceanfront experience with cinematic elegance, award-winning culinary, and the area’s longest infinity pool. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 for 30% off best available rate with minimum stay of 4 nights, for stays Nov. 19, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025.
Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key, the largest resort in the Florida Keys, offers an ultimate coastal experience with Calm Waters Spa, adventure-filled group snorkeling excursions, fishing charters. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 to save up to 40%: Prepaid and Non-Refundable or up to 30% with a one-night deposit and flexible 14-day cancellation.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, South Walton, Florida, with exclusive beachfront access, is offering rates from $198.40/night for two or more nights booked from Nov. 29-Dec. 1 for stays through April 30, 2025 (use code BF), or 25% discounted stay for two or more nights plus daily breakfast for two,
booked Dec. 2-3 for stays through April 30, 2025 (use code CM0). Book by phone, 888-519-0048.
Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa, New Hampshire, a timeless retreat on the National Register of Historic Places which completed a multimillion dollar renovation, offers a luxury fourseason escape within its expansive 1,700 acres set amid the picturesque peaks of NH’s legendary White Mountains. Features include Tower Spa, a historic nine-hole golf course where you can have a llama be the caddy, and working farm with educational programming and animal encounters. Book on the website, mountainviewgrand.com, Nov. 22-Dec. 3 for 40% off stays through 2025.
Antrim Streamside , Catskills features 250 acres of hiking trails and opportunities for yoga, wellness activities, wine and spirits tastings, and private chef-led cooking classes. Book Nov. 29-Dec. 8 using promo code FRIDAY30 to save 30% off threenight minimum stays, Jan 2-May 31, 2025, plus complimentary wine tasting kit with sommelier’s tasting guide and savory accompaniments.
Massanutten Resort, Massanutten, VA, winter mountain getaway offers ice skating, snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding, an indoor WaterPark. Save 25% off one-bedroom condo booked by Dec. 2 for travel from Jan. 2-Mar.31, 2025 (use promo code MASSiveDeal24).
Trilith Guesthouse, Fayetteville, GA, which opened this year, is at the main entrance of the Town at Trilith, a European-inspired community adjacent to Trilith Studios, the second largest film and television studio in North America. Book Nov. 26-Dec. 3 for 25% off advance purchase for visits from Nov. 26, 2024
Holiday Season Begins on Long Island
With Opening of LuminoCity
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES
SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
There’s a singing chocolate ice cream cone. A chocolate covered strawberry ballerina. Cakey and the Fairy. Not to mention an Ice Palace with penguins, polar bears, seals. A Giant Christmas Tree and of course, Santa in a Sleigh –all created in lights. The holiday season has begun on Long Island with the opening of this year’s LuminoCity Lights Festival at Eisenhower Park, on view through January 5.
An annual holiday event since 2019, each year the theme changes. This year’s theme, “Sweet Dreams,” is featured in 50 attractions as you walk the winding paths through a truly enchanted forest.
You wander through different scenes and settings with different themes. What is so impressive is the creativi-
through Sept. 30, 2025 (Promo code: 7YM). Purchase a $100 gift card for a $25 bonus card that can be redeemed at the hotel’s outlets Jan. 1-May 31, 2025.
Art of Living Retreat Center, Boone, NC, a serene and rejuvenating wellness experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 90 minutes from Ashville is offering 25% off Signature Retreats (Happiness, Stepping Into Silence, Breathwork & Meditation) and R+R Retreats for stays from January through March 2025, booked Nov. 22-Dec. 3 with code BLACKFRIDAY2024
Hotel booking site HotelSlash is offering a free lifetime membership (membership is normally $29.95 per year) along with a 7% discount on top of their already low rates. Bookable from Nov. 28Dec.. 3. Use promo code BLACKFRIDAY. Visit https://www.hotelslash.com/ Cruise Offers
Cruisecritic.com is showing Black Friday luxury cruise offers with special rates, free air, upgrades and perks that can be booked through Cruise Specialists: Regent Seven Seas Cruises: up to 40% off fare and $1,000 shipboard credit on 2025 and 2026 cruises booked by Nov. 30. Oceania Cruises: up to 25% bonus savings on 200 voyages booked by Dec. 4. Viking: free air and $25 deposits on 2025 and 2026 cruises booked by Nov. 30. Silversea: up to $6000 cruise savings on 550 cruises plus reduced deposits, booked by Dec. 2. Seabourn: 2-category veranda suite upgrade plus reduced deposits on select 2025-2026 cruises booked by Dec. 3. Cunard: up to $400 onboard credit plus gratuities on 400 voyages booked by Jan 6. Book through Cruise Specialists, cruisespecialists.com, 888-994-6134.
Lights Festival
ty and the artistry, the delicate precision and the exquisite quality and scale.
There are nearly life-size deer, giraffes, lambs, then in another scene, wooly mammoths, saber tooth tigers, reindeer, and in another, cartoonish fantastical, fanciful and whimsical creatures.
You walk through arches, portals, tunnels of light. You walk through the mouth of a giant hungry caterpillar whose eyelids open and close; another is a pergola of candy canes. You come upon a train going through a tunnel made of fairy lights (“It’s not about the destination. It’s about the journey,” a note reads.) It’s like finding yourself in a 3-D storybook.
There are hot air balloons, and holiday symbols of candy canes, snowmen, enormous Christmas trees, Santa on a sleigh – all in fairy lights.
And my favorite - which I purposely left for a dramatic climax to my walk (there are several ways to go) - an
entire Ice Palace with penguins, polar bear, seals, and a moving winged horse (Pegasus) where I overhear a kid say, “Oh my god, this is the coolest thing in the world!”
A highlight are the lantern art characters and creatures created from winning drawings of children as young as 6 years old, in collaboration with the Long Island Children’s Museum, where you see their actual drawing and how it has been manifested in stunning lifesize lantern art light sculpture.
This is the second year of the festival’s collaboration with the Long Island’s Children’s Museum – last year, the festival creator, Chen, also collaborated with the Long Island Children’s Museum on themed drawings of Long island’s marine life that were brought to life in these lanterns (the museum will be opening a Long Island Marine Life
Continued on page 5
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My niece, Shannon, and my nephew, Jason, are cousins and they live in the same town. Last year their kids were in an elementary school play before Thanksgiving and they told us aunts and uncles about how her daughter, Olivia, who’s 7, and his son, Max, 6, were dressed in their costumes as Pilgrims and stood on the stage along with several other kids. Their next-door neighbor and friend, Tyler, who’s 7, played Massasoit.
The teachers directed the play from their chairs and the audience loved the performance. They later told the friends and family of the kids that each year the play is a great way for the youngsters to learn how the very first Thanksgiving feast in New England was held in 1621 and why so many Americans still celebrate it each year. The Pilgrims sacrificed a lot to leave England for America.
The play was a big hit and helped put the audience in the holiday mood. Thanksgiving was two days later and each family had their plans set for a meal with relatives and friends.
It was Plymouth, Massachusetts, Gov. William Bradford who decided to organize a feast to celebrate the harvest and invited a group of Native American allies which included the Wampanoag chief Massasoit.
Massasoit was born in about 1590. In 1620 the Pilgrims arrived from England and started Plymouth Colony. By that time Massasoit was a chief. In 1621 he visited Plymouth. He was friendly to the Pilgrims and signed a peace treaty with them. He encouraged his people to show the colonists how to farm, fish, and hunt. To thank Massasoit, the English invited him and other Wampanoag to a great feast.
It took place over three days sometime between late September and mid-November in 1621, and was considered a harvest celebration. They’d had a successful harvest after a difficult winter and they wanted to give thanks for the blessings of the land. The Pilgrims and Native Americans came together for what turned out to be a celebration that included eating and playing games. That event is now celebrated as the first Thanksgiving.
Some people wonder which foods were served during that first feast of Thanksgiving and although wild turkeys were in the area, they probably ate venison plus fish and shellfish, which were all around them plus plenty of fruits and vegetables that the Pilgrims grew in their home gardens. Carrots, cucumbers, leeks, cabbage, lettuce, pumpkins and parsnips most likely were served.
In their first year on new soil the
Pilgrims had learned how to cook Concord grapes, walnuts, chestnuts, garlic, cranberries and wild sunflower aka Jerusalem artichokes - things that were native to Massachusetts.
As my relatives and I gathered around the table and during dessert a few of us talked about why we were thankful. My eight-year-old niece, Elle, said she’s grateful for singers like Taylor Swift. “All of her songs make me happy,” she stated and we all laughed.
Pete, my seven-year-old nephew, said he likes getting chocolate turkey candies from his grandmother on Thanksgiving and he smiled mischievously when he said it.
My sister, Susan, sat back in her chair and recounted the year she was married she and her husband, Don, invited her in-laws over for Thanksgiving Dinner. It would be a treat for them as well as Susan’s brother-in-law, Scott, and his wife, Alexa.
Excited about cooking her first holiday dinner from start to finish, Susan got busy the day before. Preparing mashed potatoes, a green bean casserole and turnips, she chilled a can of cranberry sauce. Thanksgiving morning Susan pulled a 15-pound turkey from the refrigerator and rinsing it in cold water in the sink, the bird kept slipping around and slipping and just then her mother-in-law walked in. “It looks like the runaway bird,” she chuckled then Susan popped it in a large roasting pan and all was well.
Everyone at the table laughed and growing serious, Scott said he was thankful for the latest addition to their family. Dylan was born six months before and there he was, sleeping in the playpen Scott had set up in the living room. With his blond hair and blue eyes everyone agreed that he was the cutest baby they’d seen in a long time. After dinner we took turns holding him and Don cited Scott for saying that family comes first on Thanksgiving and every day of the year.
This year will be my niece, Kylie’s, 15th wedding anniversary so we’ll all toast to that. It was on Saturday, November 28, 2009, that Kylie married
Josh. How they met: Kylie returned a dish at a friend’s house and when she rang the doorbell, Josh answered. Kylie and Josh had never met before but he was babysitting his two young nieces because his sister/the friend was out. Kylie noticed that they’d been having a tea party and Josh was thoroughly engaged in playing with the girls.
Kylie thought Josh was nice and she found out he was single but she was going to the Peace Corps the following month. She was packing her luggage and heading to a European country for three years. I wrote to her often overseas and a couple of times she said Josh was cute and wondered if he still lived nearby. Her friend said yes so shortly after her return to the U.S. they started dating.
As they say, the rest is history. They have four children, Chuck, Danny, Alex and Betsy. We will all have a good time celebrating that milestone.
Thanksgiving Day is not just a day off of work and school, it’s a national holiday that’s a perfect time for getting
together with family and friends to give thanks. This year Thanksgiving falls on November 28 and personally, I think that Thanksgiving is the best holiday of them all.
I enjoy all of the fun events connected with the four-day Thanksgiving weekend. Fall is the best time of the year.
A very Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!
Most Beautiful Grandchild
Caryl Oerzen shared this photo of 7-year-old Leah, who is as kind as she is beautiful. Leah is “always the first one to include others in her circle, as her teacher has mentioned many times,” Caryl said. “She is helpful, courageous and selfless.”
How Other Government Benefits Interact With Social Security
BY TOM MARGENAU
I have been saving up some emails from readers who want to know how other government benefits might affect their eligibility for Social Security, or vice versa. In other words, they wonder if their Social Security benefits impact whatever other government benefits they might be due.
I can always deal with that first issue. In other words, I can tell you what happens to Social Security if you get another government benefit. On the other hand, I usually can’t tell you what might happen to your other benefit when you get Social Security. For that answer, you’d have to talk to someone at the agency that manages whatever other government benefit you are talking about.
Q: I am about to turn 62 and want to file for my Social Security, but I am getting unemployment insurance. Can I get both at the same time?
A: There is no Social Security law that prevents you from getting unemployment benefits and Social Security benefits at the same time. But as I said above, you would have to ask someone at your unemployment agency if their rules let you do that.
Q: I am 60 years old. I have several medical problems, and I am in the process of filing for Social Security disability benefits. I am also filing for unemployment benefits. Will one benefit offset the other?
A: As I said in the prior answer, the Social Security laws say you can get Social Security and unemployment at the same time. But you are in a whole different boat than the guy who asked the prior question. He is filing for retirement benefits. You are filing for disability benefits. And if I was processing your disability claim, I’d be looking at your allegation of a disability very skeptically. Why? Well, to get disability benefits, you are telling the Social Security Administration that you are unable to work because of some disabling condition. But at the same time, you are telling the unemployment agency that you are ready, willing and able to work, but you just can’t find a job. I hope you see the conundrum there. And even though I don’t know their rules, if I were your unemployment benefit adjudicator, I’d also be very skeptical.
Q: I am getting worker’s compensation benefits, and I am now in the process of filing for Social Security disability benefits. Will I be able to get both benefits at the same time?
A: The answer is yes, but with some qualifications. There is a law that says the combination of your Social Security disability benefits and your worker’s compensation payments cannot exceed 80% of the average monthly income you had before you became disabled. (There is a complicated formula they use to come up with that 80% figure that I really don’t understand; just know that it ends up with a
maximum of around 80%.)
Anyway, if the combined benefits exceed that level, one or the other gets reduced to take you down to the 80% rate. Which benefit gets cut varies from state to state. But it’s been my experience that most of the time, it is your Social Security check that gets reduced.
Q: Can I get disability from the Veterans Administration and a disability benefit from Social Security at the same time?
A: You can get Social Security disability benefits while getting a disability check from the VA at the same time. And I’m pretty sure your VA check won’t be reduced if you get Social Security. But to be sure, you’d have to ask of someone at the VA.
Q: I get VA disability, but I was turned down for Social Security disability. Why? How can one government agency say I’m disabled but another government agency says I’m not?
A: Because each government agency has its own legal definition of “disability.” For example, the VA has degrees of disability. In other words, you might be classified as “50% disabled” by that agency. Or it could be 10%. Or 70%. Each case is different. But to get Social Security disability benefits, the law says you must be 100% disabled. Or to be more precise, it says your disability must be so severe that you are unable to do any kind of work, or that your condition is terminal.
Q: I am retired military and get a military retirement pension. I am about to turn 62 and plan to file for Social Security. Will that military pension affect my Social Security?
A: No, it won’t. You can get Social Security and military retirement at the same time. But once again, you’ve got to talk to the military retirement people to see what happens when you start getting Social Security. I’m pretty sure nothing happens, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Q: I get a teacher’s retirement pension from the state of Texas. If my husband dies, I’m told I won’t get any of his Social Security. Why?
A: A Social Security retirement pension has always offset any widow’s benefits you might be due -- dollar for dollar.
By the same token, the government pension offset law says your teacher’s retirement pension also will offset any widow’s benefits due. But the GPO law cuts you a deal. Instead of a dollar-for-dollar offset, your teacher’s pension is only a two-thirds offset. In other words, an amount equal to two-thirds of your teacher’s pension will be deducted from any widow’s benefits you might be due from Social Security.
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
I have been thinking about how our supposed amazing economy and crazy housing market has been over the last few years. It is quite remarkable how things have transitioned into providing overwhelming benefits and amazing appreciation to whomever had purchased; especially to those that were fortunate enough to take advantage of the historically low rates.
But what about everyone else who were shut out of the market by the 11 interest rates increases and ever escalating prices? They either had to stay where they were in the current rental or staying put in their current home; not being able to either downsize or upgrade. We can point our finger at so many variables that contributed to this stagnation of the market. However, interest rates and prices and lack of inventory were the main culprits in the drastic change in sales. Who could have predicted this monumental event that occurred? Probably 99.9% would not have known this unless they had a crystal ball that no one else had.
Will our President-elect Trump and those who will advise him figure this out? Will he fire Jerome Powell as he has done with all the other advisers and put in his own genius to contemplate how we will solve our housing problems?
To be very candid, I feel that this is the tip of the iceberg and this will be a very long and drawn out process to come up with viable ideas and solutions to be able to stabilize the market. What is worse our national debt has now gone above 36 trillion dollars. From reading and researching I do not see enough attention drawn to this most critical problem that we are facing. Lowering rates will be advanta-
Are we in a checkmate postion?
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
geous in the cost of our National Debt as well as for buyers and refinancing of the most recent higher rate loans. But this will not solve reducing our national debt. We are consistently “kicking the can” down the road and not taking the bull by the horns in coming up with the absolute required and necessary solutions to our debt dilemma. All the unnecessary unwon wars, military spending and other wasteful expenditures of the past 30 years that we had spent trillions on has added to the misery of “how do we pay the money back?”
However, I am not sure how we will reverse the direction of our National Debt unless we experience some very severe sacrifice and financial pain that needs to be considered by Washington. The one way I think we can truly solve our money issue is to “bite the bullet” for a number of years. As they say, “no pain, no gain.” However, I have read that there possibly could be another way in paying our debt down through crytpo currencies that our government supposedly owns, but I am not convinced that this would be a viable path to pursue.
currency status and how we handle the current tumultuous and severe issues around the globe with our NATO partners will determine our future on the world stage.
Looking back to 1929, the National Debt was 17 Billion. Although some years weren’t as bad as others, all of our wars seriously increased our debt. From 1941-1945 our debt went from 49 Billion to 259 Billion. When most recessions hit, the debt receded, where some others it increased. Although our wars boosted our economy and added a multitude of jobs, it also kept increasing our National Debt. Moreover, stagflation, (which is a simultaneous occurrence of high inflation, stagnant economic growth and elevated unemployment) also contributed and raised our National Debt. From there it kept increasing right through the present day. This will assuredly have a major effect on housing. Whatever is left of our middle class, our debt will have a detrimental and negative effect on their mobility to increase their long term future wealth. Taxes will most likely increase to continue paying for our debt interest, which is 1 trillion+ per year.
In a little more than a year and a half, we will be heading into our 250th year of existence as a Democracy. We have many issues that need to be considered, addressed and solved. Problems will always exist as there is no Utopia anywhere in the world where everything is perfect. But if we keep doing what we always do and expect something miraculous is going to all of a sudden change, then we are dealing with what we call insanity. Housing will be a critical commodity for everyone and our future society will depend on reasonable prices that people can afford. At the rate and pace we are currently going with current and future National Debt, inflation, wages and salaries aren’t keeping up with the cost of living, how will we be able to provide shelter for those looking to purchase or even rent.
The multiplying of our National Debt and other major issues over the years is now and will be our ondoing and so much depends on our leadership in the world. Our reputation, reserve
GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....
LuminoCity Lights Festival
Continued from page 2
exhibit in fall 2025).
“Sweet dreams theme is close to my heart,” LuminoCity Founder and Creator Xiaoyi Chen said at the ribbon-cutting. “I wanted to bring out the wonder we had as kids – the magic. Walking through, transports you back to the holidays with family. We aim to bring light and happiness to all who visit.” She added, “Long Island is our home, too.”
The setting within Eisenhower Park is particularly special. You not only have the lights, the imagery, the colors and shape, the animation, the sound and musical effects, you have the smell
of pine trees and walk through this truly magical forest. You really feel you have come to a winter wonderland, an enchanted forest, a magical place – and not just the kids.
You can purchase tickets online, www.LuminoCityfestival.com (there may be discounts available), as well as at the entrance.
LuminoCity Holiday Lights Festival, Eisenhower Park, Parking Lot 4, 1899 Park Blvd, East Meadow, NY 11554, www.LuminoCityfestival.com
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.
Psssst! Could you use an extra $300? You might want to take a look in your garbage.
Recent studies indicate that food waste remains a significant issue in American households. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that 31% of the food supply at retail and consumer
levels is lost or wasted, amounting to approximately 133 billion pounds and nearly $162 billion in value.
Focusing on produce, the Produce Price Index reports that wasting 150 pounds of produce annually could result in a financial loss ranging from $258
EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE
Fresh Produce 101
to $334 per household, depending on the types of produce discarded.
In a survey of 1,000 households, the folks at Glad found that while 83% considered themselves knowledgeable about storing produce, only 32% knew the proper way to store apples, and 38% knew the best way to store strawberries.
And so, my dear readers, in an effort to raise our collective produce intelligence quotient, what follows is a crash course in the proper care and storage of fresh fruits and vegetables.
General: Most fruits will ripen at room temperature, but once ripe, they should be refrigerated. With few exceptions, do not wash fruits or vegetables before storing because washing hastens spoilage. Rather, wash just before eating.
Apples: Store in the refrigerator; do not overcrowd, allow for good air circulation. Unwashed, will remain at their peak for at least three weeks.
Bananas: Store at room temperature unbagged; suspended from a hook is ideal. Do not refrigerate. Once ripe will last three to five days. Can freeze: Peel, slice and spread on cookie sheet. Once frozen, bag them.
Raspberries: Do not wash until ready
to use. Store in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. For optimum length of life, arrange berries in a single layer. Will last for two to three days in the refrigerator, depending on how ripe they are.
Strawberries: Do not wash, do not remove stems. Store in a sealable bag. To achieve maximum fresh life, arrange strawberries in a single layer in a plastic container with tight-fitting lid. Will stay fresh for four to five days.
Grapes: Do not wash. Leave on stems and store in zip-type bag in the refrigerator. Unwashed will stay fresh for two to three weeks. Washed? One week if you’re lucky. Always wash just before eating.
ning water. Drain well. Store in sealable plastic bag in the refrigerator (insert a paper towel in the bag to absorb moisture). Will remain fresh and crisp for seven to 10 days.
Tomatoes: To ripen, store at room temperature, stem up and away from sunlight. Store in plastic sealable bag in the refrigerator. Will stay fresh for up to a week once ripe.
Potatoes and dry onions: Never refrigerate. Store in dark, cool space like closet or pantry. Maintain good air circulation. To get onions to last for a month or longer: Cut one leg from a clean pair of pantyhose. Drop an onion into the toe, tie a knot close to the onion. Drop in another. Repeat until filled. Hang from a nail in the pantry. Need an onion? Cut right below the lowest knot. Suspended with air circulation encourages long life for onions. Works well with garlic and potatoes too.
Avocados: Ripen at room temperature on the counter, then store in the refrigerator. Will stay fresh and wonderful for up to five days.
Lettuce: Here’s an exception to the washing rule: Wash well under cold run-
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 November 24-30, 2024
It may not seem like much when you read a description, but once you see one with your own eyes, you’ll understand why it’s so special. I’m referring to the phenomenon astronomers know as a lunar occultation.
A lunar occultation occurs when the moon, in its orbit around the Earth, drifts in front of a more distant object -- for example, a planet, star or star cluster -- and blocks it from view for about an hour or so.
Occultations of stars are important because they allow us to refine our knowledge of the moon’s orbit and even discover companion objects orbiting distant stars. In fact, it was a faint companion star orbiting the red supergiant Antares that first showed up during a lunar occultation in the early 19th century.
But this week it will be Spica that beomes the star of the show. Spica is the bright white star that marks the shaft of wheat held by Virgo, the maiden, and you can now see it low in the eastern sky before dawn. And on the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 27, it will co-star with the waning crescent moon in just such an occultation.
As the moon approaches Spica from its upper right, keep a watchful eye on the star until it winks out instantly behind the moon’s bright edge. This
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
I have a talking dog.
We didn’t know it when we got him, of course. He didn’t reveal this talent to us right away. He would vocalize occasionally in dog-speak, but no one really had any idea what he was saying because he spoke in his language, and we spoke in ours, and there was no Rosetta Stone program for either of us. But then one morning I came down the stairs, as I always do, and I said:
“Hello, Bowie!”
Bowie greeted me with some howling, as he always does, but this time, he said something very clear and easy to understand.
“Hello,” said the dog.
I stopped mid-step.
“What?”
“Hello,” said the dog.
“Joel, come here!” I yelled back toward the bedroom. “The dog is talking.”
STARGAZERS
Watching a Star Wink Out
occurs for two reasons. The first is that the star is so distant that it appears as only a point of light in our sky. The second is because the moon has no atmosphere to dim the star’s light before blocking it completely.
Watching the star disappear and reappear, however, might be a challenge for some, since the event may occur during bright twilight where you live.
Viewers around the country will view the event from different angles, so its times will differ from place to place. From New York City, for example, Spica will disappear at around 5:36 a.m. EST and reappear at around 6:51 a.m. EST. In Chicago, the occultation will occur at around 4:29 a.m. CST and end at around 5:38 a.m. CST.
Farther to the west, near Denver, viewers will miss the beginning of the occultation since the pair will be below the horizon, but the star will reappear on the upper right side of the moon at 4:21 a.m. MST. Unfortunately, from the West Coast, the event occurs before the moon and Spica rise.
The key is to begin your watch at least 10 or 15 minutes early; also, don’t turn away as the star appears to close in on the moon.
To get the event’s times for your location, call your local planetarium, science museum or observatory, or visit the following website: lunar-occultations.com/iota/bstar/1127zc1925.htm.
The times there are listed in Universal Time, which you must convert into your local time. To get EST, for example, simply subtract 5 hours from UT; for CST, subtract 6 hours; for MST, subtract 7 hours; for PST, subtract 8 hours. If weather should interfere, or you miss the split-second disappearance or
reappearance, don’t worry. We’ll get to see occultations of other planets and stars during the next year.
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. . COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM
This week, in a lunar occultation, the moon will block the star Spica from view
LOST IN SUBURBIA
The Incredible Talking Dog
I heard the door open behind me, and my husband joined me on the steps.
“What are you taking about?” he said, sleepily.
“Watch this,” I said. I looked down at the dog, wagging his tail at the bottom of the staircase.
“Hello, Bowie,” I greeted him.
“Hello,” said the dog. To be honest, it was actually more like, “Huhro,” but it sounded close enough and the circumstances were certainly right for a wholehearted hello.
This would be a good time to acknowledge that Bowie is a golden retriever, and golden retrievers are not generally known for their vocal techniques. Huskies and malamutes tend to be the big talkers and will often congregate around water coolers to discuss the latest show on Netflix. But golden retrievers generally prefer to keep their opinions to themselves and refrain from any gossip or innuendo. Their motto is,
“Speak softly and carry a big stick ... or frisbee or tennis ball.”
We went downstairs and the dog greeted us in a more traditional dog way by bringing us a toy, wagging his tail and generally just acting as though he were happy to see us, unlike our actual children who had typically greeted us in the morning with a grunt and a sneer.
“Does he say anything else?” my husband wondered aloud.
“I don’t know,” I said. “I haven’t asked him.”
We let the dog out, even though he hadn’t said, “I need to go out,” and then when he came back in, I turned to him and said, “Do you want your breakfast?”
He sat and looked at me quite seriously. Then he spoke.
“Hello,” replied the dog.
“Looks like he’s a one-trick pony,” said my husband.
“Don’t pressure him,” I said. “He’ll
lose confidence.”
I decided to give up on the talking dog lessons and walked across the floor to get the dog his food. But as I walked, I failed to notice that it was raining outside and the dog had left a big puddle in the middle of the kitchen floor. I hit the puddle with my foot, lost my balance, skidded across the floor and fell flat on my butt. The dog watched this, then let out a series of guffaws that could only be interpreted as laughter.
“Well, he may only be able to say hello,” said my husband. “But at least he’s got a sense of humor.”
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
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Pecan pie makes a perfect dessert this Thanksgiving
Pecan Pie
A Thanksgiving dinner table can be a sight to behold. For foodies and others who love the array of comfort foods on display come the second Monday in October (in Canada) or the fourth Thursday in November (in the United States), Thanksgiving is a day to circle on the calen-
dar each year. While a mouthwatering turkey and sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing garner the bulk of the attention on Thanksgiving, the dessert table also can be a tempting place to direct one’s eyes. Though no dessert is off limits on Thanksgiving, pie is a
1 9-inch unbaked frozen deep dish pie shell, thawed
1 1⁄2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup light corn syrup
1⁄2 cup brown sugar
1) Preheat oven to 350° F.
2) Spread pecans along the bottom of the prepared pie shell.
3) In a large bowl, mix the remaining ingredients and pour over pecans. The pecans will rise to the surface of the pie.
particularly popular option on Turkey Day. With that in mind, those tasked with crafting something for dessert this Thanksgiving can consider the following recipe for “Pecan Pie” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Makes 8 servings
1 tablespoon molasses
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons flour
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4) Bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the filling has set. Pie is done when the center reaches 200° F. Pie center when lightly tapped should spring back. Remove pie from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.
5) Serve.
Give this beloved side a tasty twist this holiday season
Pecan-Cherry Bread Stuffing
Hosts have free rein when it comes to planning a holiday menu. Despite that freedom, many hosts feel obligated to prepare some holiday season staples their guests will surely expect when they sit down at the dinner table.
Stuffing is a dish many cel-
ebrants can’t wait to see on the holiday dinner table. For hosts trusted with preparing holiday meals, the beauty of stuffing lies in its versatility. A host of unique ingredients can be added to holiday stuffing without adversely affecting the popularity of this beloved
1 loaf crusty white or wheat bread, cut into 3⁄4inch cubes
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for baking dish
1 medium yellow onion, peeled and diced
2 large celery stalks, rinsed, trimmed and diced
4 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
1 cup packed dried tart cherries
1) Preheat oven to 400° F. Position oven racks in the middle and lower third of the oven.
Arrange bread in a single layer on two rimmed baking sheets. Toast until dry and golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool.
2) Lightly butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery and
side dish. In fact, adding some unique ingredients can make people love stuffing even more. Such could be the case with this recipe for “PecanCherry Bread Stuffing” from Lines+Angles. Makes 8 servings
1 cup roughly chopped toasted pecans
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
1 tablespoon crushed fennel seed
Coarse salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1⁄4 cup fresh chopped parsley
3 large eggs, lightly beaten
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until onion and celery are softened, about 7 minutes. Add cherries, pecans, sage, and fennel seed; cook, stirring for 1 minute. Transfer to a large bowl and season with salt and pepper.
3) Add parsley, eggs and bread to the cherry mixture; stir to combine. Add broth in two additions, stirring until
absorbed. Season generously with salt and pepper; transfer stuffing to butter baking dish. Bake on middle rack until the top is deep golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
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Winter coat drive supports homeless
Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) is joining forces with the Plainview-Old Bethpage, Syosset, and Jericho Libraries, as well as Syossetbased Always Orthodontics, to host his office’s third annual winter coat drive to benefit the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless.
Donors are invited to drop off new and gently used winter coats and winter accessories (gloves, hats, scarves, etc.) at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Library, 999 Old Country Road, Plainview, N.Y. 11803; Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset, N.Y. 11791; the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane, Jericho N.Y. 11753; and Always Orthodontics, 485 Underhill Blvd., Suite 306, Syosset, N.Y. 11791 during normal business hours from Monday, Dec. 2 to Sunday, Dec. 22.
“Last winter, thanks to the tremendous generosity of communities across the 16th District, we gathered more than 500 warm winter coats for deserving families throughout our region – and with your support, we are hopeful that we will be able to touch even more lives this holiday season,” Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. “When you donate a winter jacket, you are giving more than the gift of warmth - you are wrapping its recipient in spirit of compassion and hope for a better future. I am grateful to once again be partnering with the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless and our outstanding network of sponsors to bring forth this vital effort.”
Anyone interested in supporting the coat drive can contact Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 or adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov for details.
Town golf course to stay open during winter
For the first time the Hon. Joseph Colby Golf Course in Woodbury will remain open to residents throughout the winter. Beginning November 4, tee times will be available from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., weather permitting. Fees will remain the same and the course will be closed on Mondays starting in December. The front office will open at 7 a.m. and carts must be returned by 4 p.m. Twilight golf will not be available during the winter season.
“Following the extensive upgrades and improvements to our course completed this past summer, we are proud to announce that the Hon. Joseph Colby Golf Course will remain open this winter so residents may enjoy this scenic and challenging 18-hole championship course all year round,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Make your reservation, enjoy the beautiful
course and spend the day in the Town of Oyster Bay.”
Applications for membership to the Honorable Joseph Colby Town of Oyster Bay Golf Course are available and are processed at the golf course Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Membership is valid until the end of the calendar year. Prospective members must provide the following proofs of residency: Photo Identification (Driver’s License, DMV Photo ID or Passport); and Car Registration, Tax Bill or Utility Bill. Non-resident memberships are also available for an additional fee.
To reserve a tee time, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com/golf or call (516) 677-5980. A $5 fee per player is applied at time of reservation. Daily senior citizens discounts are offered.
Lionel Operating Engineers open house
Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray greeted Nassau Lionel Operating Engineers President Walt Enderley, Vice President Bob Trnka and fellow members during the organization’s open house in Levittown on October 26.
New business ribbon cutting
On October 24, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads celebrated the ribbon cutting ceremony for the family owned Petite 2 Florist in Levittown. Senator Rhoads, along with the Levittown Chamber of Commerce, lauded the beautiful floral arrangements and quality service, encouraging the community to check out the store and support small businesses.
Levittown students showcase musical, literary pursuits
Students from throughout the Levittown School District showcased a special performance and presentation to parents, peers, administrators and trustees at the Nov. 6 board of education meeting.
In the Levittown Memorial Education Center auditorium, General Douglas MacArthur High School music department students took to the stage to offer a sneak peek at their upcoming show. Performers showcased select scenes from “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” which included songs and coordinated routines. Performers, costume designers and set decorators have been hard at work organizing the show since the start of the school year. The exciting glimpse was a promotion of MacArthur’s upcoming shows from Nov. 21–23. All are welcome to attend.
Following the performance, students from East Broadway Elementary School shared their recent literary pursuit under the districtwide theme of “Book Love.” Fourth and fifth graders participate in daily read-alouds in their classroom led by their teachers, which have led to high student engagement in the stories shared. During discussions, students show impressive literary knowledge as they use terminology such as theme, plot, character traits and author’s purpose. Students also relate what they learn to previous lessons and personal experiences and recommend the books they love to their peers and teachers. At the meeting, fourth graders from Mrs. Russo’s class and fifth graders from Mrs. Hepworth’s class shared their favorite book and their skills gained from the daily read-alouds.
Really Trying,” at the Nov. 6 Board of Education
gave a
Each fourth and fifth grader named their favorite book and shared their love of reading.
themed presentation to trustees and administrators.
Bennett Neglia will play the lead of J. Pierrepont Finch.
Performers from General Douglas MacArthur High School showcased their upcoming show, “How to Succeed in Business Without
meeting.
East Broadway Elementary School students
“Book Love”
Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools
Kramer Lane School hosts “Amazing Inflatable Race”
On Nov. 15, the back field of Kramer Lane School came alive with laughter and excitement as students, staff, and families gathered for the Amazing Inflatable Race.
On Nov. 15, the back field of Kramer Lane School came alive with laughter and excitement as students, staff, and families gathered for the Amazing Inflatable Race. The event, sponsored by Bethpage High School’s chapter of SADD, combined community spirit with a heartfelt mission: raising funds to help rebuild the Black Mountain Home for Children, Youth & Families in Asheville, North Carolina, which was devastated during Hurricane Helene.
The race was the grand finale of a schoolwide fundraiser that kicked off on Oct. 23. Students cast their “votes” by donating coins and bills into buckets labeled with pictures of participating staff members. These buckets, stationed in the main lobby, quickly filled with contributions as students rallied behind their favorite contenders. By Nov. 14, the votes were in, and the top 10 staff members with the most donations were chosen to compete.
Principal Kerri McCarthy stole the show, delighting the crowd in an inflatable dog costume that had students and parents cheering.
The enthusiasm was palpable as spectators lined the field to watch the staff navigate a hilarious obstacle course, with assistance from Kramer Lane students.
In the end, it was second grade teacher Mr. Zaborowski who emerged victorious, crossing the finish line to loud applause and earning the title of Kramer Lane’s
Second grade teacher Mr. Zaborowski was the winner of the Great Inflatable Race.
inflatable race champion. More importantly, the event raised over $900 for hurricane relief, showcasing the school community’s generosity and commitment to making a difference.
Bethpage HS welcomes new Honor Society members
On Oct. 30, the Bethpage High School auditorium filled with family, friends, teachers and administrators to celebrate the National Honor Society induction ceremony for 118 exceptional students. This prestigious event recognized students for their commitment to the National Honor Society’s core values of scholarship, leadership, service, knowledge and character.
The journey to induction into the National Honor Society is no easy feat. Each inductee completed a rigorous application process, compiling a portfolio of achievements, extracurricular activities and community service hours. Their dedication and hard work earned them a place in this respected organization, whose members exemplify high standards in both academics and community service.
The ceremony opened with a musical performance by Tracy Jiang on piano and Samantha Harold on guitar, setting a warm and celebratory tone. Ava Mirabelli then performed the national anthem, marking a patriotic beginning to the event.
During the ceremony, each new member took the NHS oath, pledging to uphold the society’s five foundational values. The NHS executive officers took turns speaking on each of these qualities. As they spoke about knowledge, character, scholarship, leadership and service, they lit
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five candles symbolizing the importance of these principles. This traditional ritual underscored the solemn commitment each member has made to live by the ideals of the National Honor Society.
The newly installed officers for the Bethpage NHS chapter were also introduced, including co-presidents Rashed Ahmadi and Michael Nicki, Vice Presidents of Tutoring Jennifer Lee and Ibrahim Rana, Secretary Nand Patel and Treasurer Christopher Gomez. The officers were officially sworn in by NHS advisor Mrs. Sciglibaglio, who expressed her pride in the new leaders and encouraged them to continue their legacy of service and dedication.
One by one, the inductees were called to the stage to sign the official NHS membership book, a long-standing tradition symbolizing their commitment to the organization. Each student was then congratulated by Mr. Jantz, applauding their achievement and welcoming them into the Bethpage NHS family.
This memorable evening marked the beginning of an exciting chapter for these 118 new members as they embark on a journey to make a positive impact on their school and community through leadership, scholarship, and service.
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On Wednesday, Oct. 30, the Bethpage High School celebrated the National Honor Society induction ceremony for 118 exceptional students.
Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
