Jericho-Syosset News Journal (12/16/22)

Cutting edge technology comes to Jericho schools

Town collects DVDs for troops, sick kids

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Rich LaMarca celebrated the success of the Town’s DVD Collection Drive in partnership with the Massapequa-based “Big Hy for Heroes” organization. Thanks to residents’ overwhelming generosity, DVDs will now be sent to those deployed and serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces, along with children in children’s hospitals. Chaplains, Commanding Officers,

Sergeant Majors and Sergeants around the globe will oversee their distribution and arrange movie nights this holiday season. Supervisor Saladino also honored the Big Hy for Heroes Organization. Founded in 2002 by Massapequa resident and WWII veteran Hyman Strachman with the help of his son Arthur Strachman, Big Hy for Heroes has shipped hundreds of thousands of DVDs all around the world, and continues to do so today.

Legislator Josh Lafazan watches as the class dissects a human cadaver.

Thanks to a grant from Nassau County Legislator Josh Lafazan, the Jericho School District purchased an Anatomage table, which is an electronic device that produces images of human cadavers and enables 3D visualization

and dissections.

According to Kim Libertini, Jericho’s curriculum associate for science and technology education, “This table

Coat drive to help the homeless

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) is joining forces with the Syosset and Jericho Public Libraries to support an annual coat drive spearheaded by the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless.

Donors are invited to drop off new and gently used winter coats at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster

Bay Road, Syosset, N.Y. 11791 and the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane, Jericho N.Y. 11753 during normal business hours from Friday, Nov. 18, to Wednesday, Dec. 21,

“When a person donates a winter jacket, they are not just giving the gift of warmth - they are wrapping its recip-

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino (right) and Town Clerk Rich LaMarca (left) with Arthur Strachman, in front of DVDs collected for troops and sick kids.

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Water district: Prepare your pipes for winter

With winter steadily approaching, the Hicksville Water District (HWD) would like to remind residents of some simple steps they can take to ensure that their home water systems are prepared for the cold weather ahead. Following these steps can prevent numerous potential hazards, such as system leaks and breaks, freezing pipes, expensive plumbing issues and more.

“Winter is a critical time of year when it comes to maintaining your home water systems,” said HWD Chairman Nicholas Brigandi. “If proper precautions are not taken prior to the coldest time of year, frozen water can cause damage that requires significant and expensive repairs. We encourage residents to follow these simple tips to make sure their water systems make it through the winter unscathed.”

Indoor Water Maintenance Before Cold Weather Arrives:

Freezing temperatures and cold winds can cause pipes and water meters to freeze or break. In preparation, please locate the main water shutoff valve in your home in case of an emergency and make sure pipes in unheated areas—such as crawl spaces—are properly insulated. Insulating pipes can be easily achieved by lining the pipe with only 1/4” of newspaper. If your water systems have proven susceptible to freezing in the past, make sure that these unheated systems are introduced to heat by opening up the space to the rest of the home. This will allow the warm air to circulate in these areas as well.

If pipes do freeze, running them until the blockage melts is not the most efficient option. Instead, appliances such as hair dryers can provide slow, even heat

coverage to defrost pipes.

Outdoor Water Systems:

Be sure to drain outside faucets and turn off outside water to prevent freezing and breaks. Check your water meter pit cover to make sure that it is securely bolted down and that the cover is intact with a waterproof seal.

Sprinkler Systems:

Sprinkler systems should be drained and turned off to prevent possible leaks and damage to the system. Leaks in sprinkler systems caused by burst pipes can be hard to identify when the systems return back on line, leading to increased water usage and inefficient functionality.

Water Lines Leading to Unheated Structures:

Be sure to shut off and drain service lines leading the unheated structures until spring to prevent breaks.

Learn About Water Leaks as They Happen:

Due to the Hicksville Water District’s water meter replacement initiative, residents now have the ability to track their water usage in real time by connecting with the EyeOnWater® web application. Through this free app, residents have the capability to proactively monitor any water system issues before pipes break or burst by establishing leak alerts. Registering is simple, and can be done at the following link: https://eyeonwater.beaconama.net/signup.

If you have any questions regarding home preparation for winter, please contact the Hicksville Water District at 516-931-0184 or visit our new website at www.hicksvillewater.org.

Town offers Toddler Arts & Crafts Program

The Town of Oyster Bay will be offering a Toddler Arts & Crafts Program for winter 2023, beginning on January 31, 2023. This 6-week program offers classes at the Town’s Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center Community Room and Hicksville Athletic Center, and is open to children ages 2 through 4.

“The Town’s Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is a wonderful way to help support your toddler’s development through nurturing their artistic expression,” said Town of Oyster Bay Councilwoman Vicki Walsh. “Classes will certainly fill up quickly as this program offers children a great wintertime activity.”

The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is 6 weeks in duration, beginning January 31, and residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take place on:

• Tuesdays at 10 a.m. for twoyear-olds and 11 a.m. for three and four-year-olds at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville;

• Wednesdays at 10 a.m. for two-

year-olds and 11 a.m. for three-andfour-year-olds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage; and

• Thursdays at 10 a.m. for twoyear-olds and 11 a.m. for three and four-year-olds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage.

Registration will take place online at www.oysterbaytowncom/parks starting Tuesday, January 3, at 9 a.m. Residents must create an account on this website to register their child and upload proof of residency and the child’s birth certificate. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity.

Each class is approximately 30–45 minutes. The cost of the program is $35 per child who is a Town resident, and $45 per child whose caregiver is a Town resident but not the child. A guardian must be present during the class. A smock and supplies will be provided.

The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For further information, please call (516) 797-7945.

Town offers Toddler Sports Program

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that its Toddler Sports Program will return this winter, beginning on January 31. This 6-week program offers sports classes at the Hicksville Athletic Center for children ages 3 and 4.

“The Town’s Toddler Sports Program is a fantastic way to teach your toddler the fundamentals of sports in a fun and social environment,” said Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “This program is sure to be a hit with children and parents alike, as youngsters are given the opportunity to learn the basics of various different sports such as tee-ball, flag football and more along with children their own age.”

The Toddler Sports Program begins on January 31 and is 6 weeks in duration. Residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one, six-week session per child. Classes will take place on:

• Tuesdays at 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville; and

• Thursdays at 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville.

Online registration will begin on Tuesday, January 3, at 9 a.m. through the Parks Department Portal available at oysterbaytown.com/parks. Residents must create an account on this website to register their child and upload proof of residency and the child’s birth certificate. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity. Space is limited- first come, first serve.

Each class is approximately 50 minutes. The cost of the program is $75 per child who is a Town resident, and $90 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. A guardian must be present during the class. The child MUST be 3 years old by the start of the program.

The Toddler Sports Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For further information, please call (516) 797-7945.

Grief Awareness Day

Free virtual assessment grievance workshops

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) is partnering with the Nassau County Assessment Review Commission (ARC) to host free virtual community assessment grievance workshops to inform residents about how to challenge their property taxes online.

The workshops will take place online on Thursday, January 12, and Thursday, January 19, from 7–9 p.m.

During each virtual workshop, taxpayers who disagree with the assessed value of their property will learn how to navigate the online grievance process and dispute their assessment. There will also be an opportunity to submit via chat any questions to the representative from ARC. Questions will be answered after the presentations and/or they will contact you directly.

Residents who would like to participate in these virtual assessment grievance workshops should visit https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/ LD16. For additional information, please contact Legislator Drucker’s

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview).

office at 516-571-6216 or via email at adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov.

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray attended the Children’s Grief Awareness Day event on November 19 at Levittown Hall in Hicksville. Also attending were Paul Rubin, Executive Director of Camp Good Mourning, and Paul Becht, David Lewis, Rosanne Brostowski, James Ladolce, Kathleen Sisti and Sandy Daly.

Plainview resident is a local celebrity of sorts

BY GARY SIMEONE

Tiffany Seeley still gets asked for her autograph or a selfie with a fan from time to time. The 49-year-old Plainview resident is still well known around town for her stint last year on the reality TV show “Survivor.”

Seeley, an ELA teacher at the Jamaica Academy Alternative Learning Center in Queens, was a contestant on the popular TV show “Survivor 41” before being eliminated from the competition as one of the last eight competitors.

Seeley had initially sent in an audition tape to the show in 2018, and after a number of casting trips to Los Angeles and unexpected delays, she was chosen as one of the eighteen final contestants.

“I had to be on set location in the Fiji Islands in March of last year, where I was competing against eighteen other people for the million dollar grand prize,” said Seeley. “The whole thing happened so fast it was a bit of a whirlwind experience.”

She said the whole experience reminded her of her early college days, where she had to quickly adjust to a new environment and the people around her.

“We were all there on this remote island in the middle of nowhere, trying to outwit and outcompete each other

and as cliched as it sounds, trying to survive.”

Her popularity from the show even resonates with students from her school who recognize her on occasion.

“It’s rolling admissions so I’ll usually only have a kid with me for ten days or so, but once in awhile a student will look at me and say ‘oh my god, I have a famous person teaching me!’ I wish I had a camera for moments like that,” said Seeley.

She added that she hopes her stint on the show can serve as a reminder to students of what a little hard work and perseverance can accomplish.

“I work very hard on a social and emotional level with these students, many of whom have behavioral issues in a normal classroom setting. I think my time auditioning and eventually being cast on the show can show them what a little hard work and stick-to-itivness can do.”

Seeley, who graduated from SUNY Cortland, is the second Long Islander from the college to appear on the reality TV show in recent years.

Tom Sheehan, a teacher in the Floral Park School District appeared on the show in 2019, and was crowned the champion of Season 39.

Hempstead Town Councilman Dennis Dunne, Sr. and Town Clerk Kate Murray congratulated Summit Lane Elementary School 5th grader Fahad

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

YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. EVERY DAY.

CHEERS TO A HAPPY HOLIDAY!

TO YOU. TO US. TO ALL!

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

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

Robbins Lane fifth grade enjoys Rec Night

The Robbins Lane PTA hosted its Fifth Grade Rec Night and it was a huge success! Each year, the Robbins Lane PTA has a Rec Night for each grade — this night was for the fifth graders — a special night, as it will be their last Rec Night at Robbins Lane. The turnout was fantastic, with more than 70 children in attendance. The event was organized and led by two Robbins Lane parents, with the help of some excellent par-

ent volunteers. During the event, the kids participated in relay races, events called “egg on a spoon and “steal the bacon,” and a tug-of-war, where the kids battled each other (and even the parents got in on the competition). Both kids and parents went home happy and exhausted, a wonderful combination for their final Robbins Lane Rec Night.

All in good spirit!

Good friends. We won!

Fun night.

Fifth grade memories.

Cheering on friends.

SHS seniors receive awards for athletic achievements

Syosset High School seniors Angelo Fasano and Eleni Kaouris were recognized for their outstanding achievement in physical education by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYSAHPERD). The two received medals at NYSAHPERD’s annual Nassau Zone awards ceremony held at the Crest Hollow Country Club on Monday December 5.

Both Angelo and Eleni were nominated by members of the Syosset High School Physical Education Department. To be considered for this honor, candidates needed to demonstrate the following criteria:

• A physically active lifestyle, both during and outside school;

• Responsible personal and social behavior, including good sportsmanship, character, civility, and citizenship;

• Leadership and being a positive influence on their peers;

• Valuing a healthy lifestyle and lifelong learning;

• Exceptional achievement in Physical Education class;

• A high level of fitness on an approved fitness test.

Eleni and Angelo were accompanied at the award ceremony by their physical education teacher Dean Strohmayer and Scott Stueber, director of physical education, athletics, and recreation.

Northside School students thank cops with cards

For the past three years, Northside Elementary School in the Levittown Public School District has participated in “Cards for Cops,” a holiday program that distributes cards to police officers all over Long Island. To date, Northside has made 1,035 cards for local officers.

The program, which is coordinated by Beyond the Badge New York, connects schools with their local law enforcement agencies to spread some love and cheer during the holiday season. Through students’ participation in the program, positive relationships with local law enforcement officers starts early from pre-school. Students and staff hope a card from a child can lift an officer’s spirit this holiday season, and the kind words found within will remind the officers that they have the school’s support.

Each year that Northside has participated in the program, amazing feedback from police officers who receive the cards was received. They have expressed their thanks for the many children who love to put smiles on their faces.

Syosset High School Senior Angelo Rasano and Senior Eleni Kaouris show off medals at annual NYSAHPERD Nassau Zone award ceremony. Photo courtesy of the Syosset School District

Students in Ms. Tintle and Mrs. Carpentier’s third grade and kindergarten classes created cards to thank local police officers.

Photo courtesy of Levittown Public Schools

S H O P L O C A L

T H I S H O L I D A Y S E A S O N -

Bruce Blakeman Nassau County Executive

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Friday, December 16

11:00 a.m.: Sensory Storytime (Ages 2 to 5 Years) - This is a special program designed for children who may need extra sensory support. It combines traditional storytime components with sensory elements to enhance the experience.

2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: Great Performers with Marc Courtade: Ellen Burstyn - Always Luminous Ellen Burstyn is one of America’s most highly regarded actresses. She found success in film, on stage and in television. Burstyn had been working for over a decade when she rose to fame in “The Last Picture Show” in 1971 and won the Academy Award as Best Actress for “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” in 1974. She is one of 20 performers to win the “triple crown” of acting. with a Tony Award for “Same Time, Next Year” and an Emmy Award in 2008. This talk will remind us why a performance by Ellen Burstyn is synonymous with good acting.

Monday, December 19

7:00 p.m.: Book Discussion: The Mitten by Jan Brett (Grades 1–2) - Pick up a copy of the book in the Children’s Room prior to the program. We ask that the book be read before the program, either by the child or a parent reading to the child.

Tuesday, December 20

2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: A Visual History of Santa with Chris Vivas - The legend of Santa began with St. Nicholas in modern-day Turkey. Christmas was banned in England and the during the early days of Colonial America. The image of Santa was largely a product of commercialism. Join us as we explore the visual image of this iconic symbol of Christmas, generosity and the season of giving.

3:30 p.m.: Evergreen Earth Team: Forest Ecology (Grades K–5) - Learn about the layers of a deciduous for-

est and the animals that inhabit them. There will be a visit from live forest animals!

7:00 p.m.: Teens: Study Skills Workshop - Getting Ready for Midterms with C2 Education - With GPA being the primary determining factor for colleges when identifying strong candidates, it is essential that students develop strong study skills and habits. How to create a study plan, tips for staying organized, and when and where to study are just a few of the strategies we will discuss during this workshop.

7:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Talk About Books with Fran Cohen: “The Violin Conspiracy” by Brendan SlocombBoth engaging and suspenseful, this literary thriller transports us to the world of classical music and the theft of a family heirloom. Listeners are welcome!

Wednesday, December 21

10:30 a.m.: Family Day with PlayHooray (Ages 8 Months to 5 Years) - Enjoy fun family time together singing, dancing and playing.

2:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Movie: “The Power of the Dog” - Drama/ Romance/Western - Charismatic rancher Phil Burbank inspires fear and awe in those around him. When his brother brings home a new wife and her son, Phil torments them until he finds himself exposed to the possibility of love. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Jesse Plemons, Kirsten Dunst, and Kodi Smit-McPhee. Rated R, 2 hours, 6 minutes.

5:00 p.m.: Teens Community Service: Snowflakes for Seniors - Join us on this first day of Winter to paint and decorate 2 hanging snowflakes with sequins. Completed snowflakes will be strung and brought to a local senior center to brighten up their space! 1 hour of community service credit will be issued.

7:00 p.m.: Winter Songbook Music Makers (Pre-K to K) - Join Adam King and enjoy the season and spirit of winter through song!

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Friday, December 16, at 2:00 p.m.

Movie & Q & A: Impresarios and Visionaries (IN PERSON)

Past Syosset resident and Syosset High School alum Steven Taub will be showing his documentary film that celebrates the arts and art presenters. The film features Ed Burns (actor), David Bromberg (singer & songwriter), John Platt (reality show producer), Sandy Chapin (Harry Chapin’s wife) and an esteemed array of musicians laying down the film soundtrack.

The film is 42 minutes long and Steven will be answering questions at the end of the showing. No registration needed.

Thursday, December 22, at 12:00 p.m.

#AskALibrarian (ON TWITTER)

Join librarians from Syosset Library and around the world on Twitter for #AskALibrarian to receive reading suggestions based on your requests. Must have a Twitter account to participate.

Read a great book? Need a read-alike? Looking for your next book club choice? Use #AskALibrarian in your tweet.

Thursday, December 22, at 2:00 p.m.

“The Twilight Zone” (IN PERSON)

Presenters: Howard Ehrlich & Harvey Sackowitz, professors, St. Johns University

Between 1959 and 1964, CBS aired black and white 30 minute episodes of “ The Twilight Zone. ” The series was hosted by Rod Serling who also wrote most of the stories. Serling was sure to include a surprise ending for each story and a moral and ethical truth as well. Do you remember “Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder”, “The Masks” or “To Serve Man”? Presenters will share clips from their favorite episodes and come prepared to discuss yours. No registration needed.

Friday, December 23, at 1:30 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.

Jericho Middle School students collect food

Financial Literacy Day in POB schools

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) had the pleasure of joining with PlainviewOld Bethpage students at the district’s Howard B. Mattlin and Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle Schools on Friday, Nov. 18 for the district’s Fifth Grade Financial Literacy Day, during which students learned the fundamentals of budgeting, banking, saving, investing and more.

“Financial Literacy Day equips our youth with the knowledge to make smart decisions that will serve them well throughout their lives,” Legislator Drucker said. “Thank you to all of the principals, assistant principals, teachers and students for welcoming me into your classrooms and allowing me to be a part of this important activity!”

Photos

of Office of Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

Town’s “Holiday on Ice”show to return

The Town of Oyster Bay ’ s annual “Holiday on Ice” Show will return at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 17, at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center located in Bethpage Community Park, 1001 Stewart Avenue. Admission to the show is free. Students from the Town ’ s Ice Skating Program will perform an enchanting, holiday-themed skating exhibition and the evening includes an exhibition hockey game between the Elves and the Reindeer, which are two teams comprised of players from the Town of Oyster Bay Youth Ice Hockey program. Santa Claus is

scheduled to visit with children and take holiday photographs after the show.

“This special holiday performance is an annual tradition for many families and children across the Town,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The show provides an opportunity for participants in the Town ’ s popular ice skating program to showcase the hard work they ’ ve put into in training all year. Join us on December 17, as the performance is sure to dazzle all those in attendance!”

In the spirit of “the season of giving,” attendees are asked to bring two

non-perishable food items for donation to Island Harvest, an organization committed to ending hunger on Long Island. Attendees are also welcome to bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation to the United States Marines Toys for Tots Collection Drive ,which benefits local children throughout the community.

Holiday on Ice performance attendees will also be offered an opportunity to take part in the Holiday Mail for Heroes program, which offers residents the opportunity to fill out free holiday greeting cards, available in the lobby, for delivery to troops in

the United States Armed Forces stationed in the homeland and around the globe.

Due to the Holiday on Ice show, the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center ’s regularly scheduled public skating sessions slated for 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., will be cancelled on December 17. However, the Town ’ s two outdoor rinks, located at Marjorie R. Post Community Park in Massapequa and at SyossetWoodbury Park will be open for visitors. Please visit www.oysterbaytown.com for more information or call (516) 797-4121.

Students at JFK High School learned about financial literacy with Legislator Drucker.

From left: DECA adviser Mike Ambury, Legislator Drucker, Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School Principal Kerry Farrell and Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School Assistant Principal Brian Ciampo on Friday, Nov. 18.

Middle school students discuss finances with Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D-Plainview).

courtesy

Great Gifts for Travelers to Spark Wanderlust, Check off that Bucket List

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

What could be a better than giving someone a part of the world, some memorable, life-enhancing, life-changing experience, something from their bucket-list, perhaps? Give the gift of travel.

Gift of travel can be everything from the trip itself (even create a registry so that lots of friends and family can contribute), to pre-arranging some experience or activity to enhance a trip: a dining experience, a spa visit, visits to a museum or attraction, a cooking, baking or jewelry making class; a hot-air balloon ride (champagne!); rock-climbing adventure; walking tour; bike rental. And what trip doesn’t require some special gear?

You can pre-purchase a city-sightseeing pass that provides admissions to the most popular sights in cities like Prague (PragueCoolPass.com), Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, Paris (parispass.com), New York City. Check out Go City, which sells passes in over 30 destinations from major metropolises like London and New York to oceanfront oases like Sydney and Oahu (GoCity.com, 800 887 9103).

More and more travel companies –hotels and accommodations, cruises, tours, theme parks, sightseeing, spa visits, restaurants and dining, and even transportation companies from airlines to Amtrak to Uber to a Maine Windjammer Cruise – now offer gift cards, e-gift cards or vouchers. And the beauty is you can give the amount that works best for you and they can be spent in the way your giftee wants.

Gift cards can open up doors to

travel, or take the sting out of the pinch to a traveler’s, couple’s or family’s wallet. Gift cards can be that extra spark that gets your loved one to finally depart on their bucket-list experience.

Here are some examples:

A yacht-style cruise to the Mediterranean. A historic stay at the new Maswik Lodge South in the middle of Grand Canyon National Park. A BVT Bicycling Vacations guided tour to New Zealand. These are but a few of the experiences that can be acquired with Xanterra Travel Collection gift cards toward Xanterra’s operations in Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Xanterra Travel Collection also owns and operates the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Ariz., The Grand Hotel in Tusayan, Ariz., The Oasis at Death Valley in Death Valley Calif., Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls, Mont., Windstar Cruises, Holiday

So many ways to give the gift of travel that makes such a bucket-list family experience like a Galapagos Cruise possible, from forming a registry for many to contribute to a fund, to arranging for special experiences along the way, to clothes, gear, photography equipment © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

Vacations, VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations, and Country Walkers. Xanterra is also affiliated with two Forbes Five-Star Resorts, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO and Sea Island on the coast of Georgia. (https://www.xanterra. com/gift-cards/)

Globus family of brands Gift Certificates, redeemable for tours and cruises, come in denominations of $50, $200 & $500. Gift Certificates may be used in conjunction with any promotion offered at time of booking and they are transferable up until time of application of payment to an existing booking. https://www.globusjourneys.com/tour-gift-certificate/

Tauck Tours eGift Cards, available in any amount, are valid for any Tauck land journey, river or small ship cruise and Tauck Bridges family adventures. https://www.tauck.com/ guest-travel/egiftcard.

Contiki also offers a travel gift card that can be used on any Contiki trip; the voucher certificates include

PLACES NEAR AND FAR

a personalized message, can be sent electronically or printed, and does not expire. https://www.contiki. com/en-us/resources/travel-giftcard 866-266 8454.

Lodging

Historic Hotels of Europe, an exclusive collection of independent and unique hotels, castles, palaces, country houses and other properties handpicked for historic importance, quality and unique story, throughout Europe, offers a gift voucher, valid for five years, in amounts from 50-1500 Euros. voucher@ historichotelsofeurope.com, https:// gifts.historichotelsofeurope.com/

You can purchase gift cards for stays or amenities at Historic Hotels of America (as well as with individual member properties). In addition, Historic Hotels of America has partnered with National Trust Tours, https://www.historichotels. org/us/national-trust-tours.php (both are programs of the National Preservation Trust) to promote travel offers and opportunities. When booking a tour, mention Historic Hotels of America and receive three $100 gift certificates for a two-night stay at a Historic Hotel. Also check the individual member historic hotels and resorts.

New England Inns & Resorts Association gift cards can be redeemed at 300 lodging properties all over New England and can be purchased in any amount you choose. The cards never expire.

Make a reservation directly with the property and let them know you will be using a New England Inns & Resort Gift Card. Present the card at

Great Gifts for Travelers to Spark Wanderlust, Check off that Bucket List

check-in. https://www.newenglandinnsandresorts.com/gift-cards

Want more choices: Hotels.com gift cards unlock hundreds of thousands of places to stay worldwide, including major hotel chains. The gift cards are available in denominations from $10 up to $2,000 and there are no expiration dates or fees. Also, Hotels.com has a secure gift registry where friends and family can contribute toward a Hotels. com eGift Card. What is more, you can trade-in select gift cards (from coffee companies, clothing companies, etc) for Hotels.com Gift Cards. https://www. hotels.com/page/giftcards/

Who knew you could also get a Camping Gift Card to New York State’s Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation sites, providing access to 8,500 campsites, 850 cabins, 135 cottages and 18 golf courses throughout the state. Purchase online at  https://shop. parks.ny.gov/store/gift-cards/ for any dollar amount and have no expiration date. They can be used with the NYS camping reservation system (Reserve America), https://www.reserveamerica. com, 800-456-2267

Cruiselines also make it easy to purchase gift cards, and even gift registries so that family and friends can contribute to purchasing the cruise: Norwegian Cruise Line makes it possible to gift onboard credit, wine, gourmet treats, spa visits. Or create a registry so that bunches of family and friends can contribute to a cruise (https://www.ncl.com/ onboard-gifts). Also: Disney Cruise Lines (https://disneycruise.disney. go.com/featured/holiday-gift-cruise/); Carnival Cruise Lines (https://carnival.ourgiftcards.com/ ); Princess Cruises (https://www.princess.com/ gift-cards); Royal Caribbean (https:// www.royalcaribbeanincentives.com/ royal-caribbean-gift-card-program/ ); Holland America (https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/giftcard.html).

You can actually buy e-gift cards for Celebrity Cruises, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, even AirbnB from amazon.com.

Maine Windjammer Association is now offering gift certificates toward cruises on any of its member vessels. They can be purchased in any amount and don’t expire. (Save 10% on purchases on Dec. 14, use code MWAWind22). They will send a packet of brochures as well. (800-807-9463, giftcertificates@sailmainecoast.com, www.sailmainecoast.com/ windjammer-sailing-gift-certificates/)

Gift of Experience

Give experiences that turn a trip into a wonder that lasts a lifetime.

Gift certificates from Broadway. com can be redeemed for tickets to any Broadway or Off-Broadway show currently playing in New York City (https:// www.broadway.com/gift-certificates/).

Drive an exotic car, learn to fly, rock climb, skydive, bungee jump. Virgin Experience lists some 3000 different experiences in 122 regions from 600 “best in class” partners that their gift card can be applied to (bioluminescent kayak adventure in Tomales Bay, CA; drive a stock car on Thompson Speedway, CT; learn to fly in Mesa, AZ. Easy return, no expiration, free exchange (https:// www.virginexperiencegifts.com/ action-and-adventure, https://www.virginexperiencegifts.com/gift-certificates)

Whether retracing the Revolution in Paris, diving into the ecology of Venetian canals, or exploring Kyoto’s teahouses at twilight, Context Travel offers tours with experts. Context offers personal walking tours in 60 cities across 6 continents. Skip the line and off-hours access to popular sites in the world’s cultural and historical capitals. Tours range from half-day to 7-days plus. Context Travel also offers the “gift of learning” – virtual and in-person sessions with top experts– you can explore the Colosseum with an archaeologist, uncover masterpieces of the Louvre with an art historian, or explore the palaces of Istanbul with an architect — from home, or in person (https://www.contexttravel. com/gift-cards).

TripAdvisor offers gift cards and e-certificates that can be purchased online or over the phone. You can pre-load the card with a set amount of money and then give it as a gift for

NUTRITION

someone to utilize when making reservations. For more information, visit TripAdvisor.com and chat with a live agent for assistance.

Spafinder, a compendium of resorts, wellness centers and day spas, makes it easy to purchase giftcards. Take 25% off $200+ with promo code VIP25; get $20 off $80, Spafinder.com

Theme parks can be a very, very pricey vacation for families. Gift cards can put the vacation in reach or enhance the experience. Disney’s gift cards can be used for “practically” all things Disney – theme park tickets, resort stays, merchandise, dining and experiences at Disney destinations. https:// www.disneygiftcard.com/

There are any number of adult fantasy camps to satisfy, well, every fantasy. If you can fantasize it, there is likely a fantasy camp to realize it.

Want to play baseball like a major leaguer? There are baseball fantasy camps with teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Atlanta Braves (mlb.com). Basketball: 76ers Fantasy Camp is the inaugural team in the NBA’s first and only fantasy camp of its kind (Aug. 25-27, 2023, www.76ersfantasycamps.com). Hockey (Miracle on Ice Fantasy Camp, Apr 30-May 4, 2023, https://lakeplacidlegacysites.com ),

Also: Broadway theater (Broadway Fantasy Camp, broadwayfancamp. com), Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp, an interactive musical event that takes place in various locations worldwide involving various Rock Stars on various dates.(rockcamp.com)

Space Camp, an educational camp in Huntsville, Alabama, on the grounds of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center museum near NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. It provides residential and educational programs for children and adults on themes such as space exploration, aviation and robotics (spacecamp.com).

For many, being able to participate in major science research is also a fantasy. Earthwatch makes it possible to support research that responds to global challenges – from climate change to human-wildlife coexistence to sustainability – while engaging local

Mediterranean Diet for Weight Loss

BY CHARLYN FARGO

The Mediterranean diet may just be the most studied diet pattern we know. It consistently rates as a top diet in U.S. News and World Report’s annual review.

The Mediterranean diet, which is actually a meal pattern, was developed in the 1950s and 1960s when a few researchers noticed the significantly lower prevalence of heart disease in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. They attributed the low prevalence of heart

disease to the overall lifestyle observed and particularly the pattern of foods eaten. Meals centered around vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, eggs, seafood and less red meat.

Over the past two decades, research has found the Mediterranean diet may help manage diabetes, protect against memory loss and reduce the risk for developing certain cancers.

Now a just-released study finds that the Mediterranean diet pattern may help

those who lose weight keep that weight off.

Called the MedWeight study, researchers found that adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle pattern was associated with favorable weight loss outcomes. The study was published in Science journal.

Researchers examined the relationship between lifestyle patterns and weight loss outcomes among those who kept their

communities, and offers more than 40 field research expeditions around the world, with opportunities for teens and adults and no prior experience needed (Earthwatch.org).

For the skier/snowboarder, consider purchasing lift tickets, lessons, rentals, perhaps even a multi-day, regional or local pass (EpicPass.com, IKONPass.com, snow.com, ski.com). Get Ski Tickets is an online marketplace where skiers/riders have access to purchase date-specific discounted lift tickets, lessons, rentals, group lift tickets and season passes. https://www. getskitickets.com/, 970-233-7040, info@ getskitickets.com. They also sell gift certificates (https://www.getskitickets. com/gift-certificates/)

Getting There

The Delta Gift Card is redeemable for any Delta Air Lines flight worldwide and for any Delta Vacations package that includes airfare, delivered to inbox or mailbox. No expiration date. With the purchase of $250 or more on Delta Gift Cards, get a $20 Starbucks eGift. https:// www.delta.com/us/en/gift-cards/overview

Gift a getaway or a portion of it with Southwest Airlines gift card. Personalize the gift card and send by e-card or by mail. No expiration date, fully transferrable. Only usable for passenger travel on Southwest (https:// www.southwest.com/gift-card/).

Prefer riding the rails to boarding flights? Amtrak gift cards are available from $25 to $250 for booking a train journey anywhere in the US and select destinations in Canada. Redeem for travel online, in the app, by phone or in staffed stations; never expires. (May not be used for onboard purchases.) https:// www.amtrak.com/giftcards

See more at https://goingplacesfarandnear.com/gift-of-travel-sparkingthat-wanderlust-checking-off-that-bucket-list-opening-pathways-to-life-enhancing-experience/

© 2022 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

“Star Wars: Andor”: A Unique Perspective on an Inconsistent Galaxy

BY DANIEL J. SULLIVAN

Ever since Disney bought Lucasfilm, and with it, the Star Wars franchise, for $4 billion in 2012, it has found trouble in satisfying its audience. Certain films, such as 2017’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi were well received by critics but panned by the general public (see The Last Jedi’s 91% critics score vs 42% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.) While others, such as 2019’s Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker saw the exact opposite (52% critics vs 86% audience.)

Despite this, one film that was very well received by both groups was 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, directed by Gareth Edwards. Unlike previous Star Wars movies, which were based on Joseph Campbell’s theory of mythology and primarily focused on space fantasy, Rogue One instead placed heavy emphasis on the, admittedly overlooked, “war” aspect of Star Wars and told a story about a struggling militia of rebels forcibly stealing data from the all-encompassing Galactic Empire. Given the success of this film and the potential to explore a different side of the Star Wars universe, it seemed only natural that in 2022, Disney released its first Rogue One spinoff, the television series Star Wars: Andor.

Andor, set 5 years before the events of Rogue One (as well as 1977’s Star Wars: A New Hope), serves as an origin story for one of the film’s main protagonists, Cassian Andor (portrayed by Mexican actor Diego Luna.) The series examines Cassian’s life as a mercenary on the planet Ferrix as well as his childhood in an indigenous tribe on the planet Kenari, while simultaneously showcasing the growing conflict in the larger galaxy through deliberations in the Imperial Security Bureau and conversations in the Galactic Senate. This balance provides nicer context to the story of the overall saga, but often times makes Cassian feel like a background character in his own show. One could argue that this is a good thing, however, because Cassian Andor is fairly stoic and generally the least interesting personality in any given scene. Not to say that the rest of the ensemble is particularly engaging. With stone faced demeanors and names like “Luthen Rael” and “Bix Caleen”, the cast is far less memorable and charming than the Luke Skywalkers and Han Solos that came before them.

What is memorable, however, is Andor’s actual story itself. Following a three episode arc format, the show has a series of two episode buildups before an action-packed third episode climax. The fourth through sixth episodes, in particular, are the show’s most engaging and accomplish something different for the Star Wars franchise. While most of Star Wars has the “fate of the galaxy”

at hand (Rogue One included), Andor showcases a much more intimate, smaller scale heist on an imperial garrison pulled off by a team of seven rebels, of which Cassian is one. The fourth and fifth episode go into detail regarding the team’s planning and training for the mission, with the sixth episode serving as the big payoff. Unlike anything else in Star Wars before it, in which the villains are the heads of empires and the heroes are notable figures, the heists in Andor put the spotlight on the smaller victories from unknown heroes against low-ranking generals that take place in a larger war. Even in the context of the real world, it allows one to consider the smaller struggles that have taken place in wars, overlooked in favor of larger battles like Normandy or Gettysburg. This is most certainly the strength of Andor and that which sets it apart from the rest of the Star Wars franchise.

However, as much as uniqueness is Andor’s greatest asset, it is also its biggest weakness. Whereas the series explores new aspects of the Star Wars universe, it takes so many liberties with the established world, that it doesn’t feel like a natural continuation of all that came before. Scenes taking place in markets and villages feature an all human cast, with nary an alien or a droid in site, the imperial garrison is patrolled by soldiers in uniform - not the sleek white stormtroopers audiences have come to know for 40 years, and most egregious of all – it lacks the franchise’s timelessness. When George Lucas was working on the original trilogy in the late 70s and early 80s, he is quoted having told the costume designers “I don’t want to see any buttons or zippers on these costumes because it’s too close to Earth. If it’s going to be space fantasy, if it’s going to be another world, then there shouldn’t be things like zippers and buttons.” This simple rule established an important aspect of the style of the Star Wars universe – it is timeless – it exists beyond our time and place. When watching any of the previous films or television series,

it is difficult to identify anything as something you may own in your home. Andor, unfortunately, plays fast and loose with this rule, and it greatly hurts the series. Characters use iPads and tablets frequently, a television news program is shown on a screen, people are shown drinking out of coffee cups, and one character’s costume is clearly just a hoodie, drawstrings and all. These design and costuming choices, coupled with the lack of aliens and droids, take

the series out of the shared universe it is supposedly a part of and make it seem like little more than a generic sci-fi show. In addition, an extremely lackluster score by Nicholas Britell is a far cry from the memorable compositions written by John Williams, Ludwig Göransson, and Michael Giacchino in the franchise’s previous entries. These aspects are the weakest parts of Andor and will hopefully be improved in the show’s second (and final) season.

At the time of this review’s writing, Star Wars: Andor is just passed its halfway point (episode 7 out of the planned 12.) Overall, the series is a solid sci-fi adventure that, despite its uninteresting characters and bland score, manages to tell a fairly engaging story about the overlooked aspects of a larger galactic war. Although it would benefit greatly by maintaining visual continuity with the rest of the Star Wars films and series, it works as a one off, introducing audiences to a previously unexplored part of the galaxy, outside of the struggle between the dark and the light sides of the force.

Star Wars: Andor releases weekly, Wednesdays on Disney+.

BY TOM MARGENAU

Here is the bottom-line message of this column: If there is any doubt or question in your mind about your eligibility for any Social Security benefit, insist on filing a claim for that benefit. You have every right to do so. Now, let me explain this in more detail.

I hear from readers all the time who tell me they talked to a Social Security Administration representative about their potential eligibility for a given benefit and were either bluntly told they weren’t eligible or were otherwise discouraged from filing a claim. So, the person making the inquiries is sent away empty-handed, but oftentimes still has lingering doubts about his or her possible entitlement to benefits.

If you are ever in that situation, let me repeat: Insist on filing a claim. It’s your legal right, and by doing so, you accomplish two things. No. 1: You will get a legal decision about your eligibility for benefits, not just one Social Security clerk’s opinion. No. 2: You will have appeal rights. In other words, if your claim is denied and you still are not satisfied, you can ask that your claim be reviewed. You even could take it all the way to the Supreme Court if you wanted to! That last comment is a little far-fetched (although feasible). However, the basic point I am making is very valid. If an SSA rep just says no and you walk away only to later learn you were due benefits, you generally won’t be able to do anything about it but gripe -- and then file a claim with no retroactivity. But if you actually file a claim the first time and it is denied, and you later are able to prove your eligibility, you will get full retroactive benefits to the date you filed the claim.

As I said, I hear from lots of readers who are given the cold shoulder by anSSA representative. Of course, sometimes the informal denial is entirely appropriate. For example, if you are only 60 years old and try to file for Social Security retirement benefits, and you are told you must be at least 62 to be eligible for such benefits, that’s an accurate response and there is really nothing you can do.

But many times, the situation is more of a gray area, and if the SSA rep jut turns you away and doesn’t offer you the chance to file for benefits, he or she isn’t doing a good job. In a minute, I’ll give some examples I’ve heard from readers. But first, I want to make this point. When I started working for the SSA back in the early 1970s, it was drilled into us almost from day one of our training class that people had every right to file for any benefit they thought they might be due and that it was our job to help them file such claims. In fact, the staffing of any Social Security field office was determined, in part, by the number of claims taken. So, there was that extra incentive to help people file claims for benefits: More claims meant more staff. It was as simple

Your Right to File a Claim for Benefits

as that. But based on the number of complaints I get from readers who tell me that they are discouraged from filing for benefits, I’m guessing that staffing procedure doesn’t exist anymore at the SSA.

Here are some recent emails from readers with examples of what I am talking about.

Q: Even though my husband and I lived together for 20 years, we didn’t actually get married until two years ago. Sadly, he died last month. I’m 68 years old and get a small Social Security benefit on my own record. When I went down to the Social Security office to file for widow’s benefits, the clerk told me we had to be married at least 10 years, so she said I wasn’t due anything. She helped me file for the $255 death benefit, and that’s all I got. But lately, some friends told me I should be getting widow’s benefits. What should I do?

A: You should march right back into that Social Security office and insist on filing a claim for widow’s benefits. The 10-year duration-of-marriage rule applies only to divorced spouses. You were married to your husband at the time he died, so that rule doesn’t apply to you. The SSA rep you talked to should have known that. If you get the same person again, ask to speak to a supervisor. But whatever you do, don’t leave the office until you file a claim for widow’s benefits.

Q: Not too long ago, you wrote a column explaining the rules for getting benefis as a divorced wife. Here is my story. I am 65 and get a very small Social Security retirement benefit because I didn’t work much outside the home. My husband, on the other hand, had a very good job and made a decent living. We were married for about 30 years. We divorced three years ago. Neither of us has remarried. He is also 65 years old and doesn’t plan to file for Social Security benefits until he is 70. Your column said that I should be able to get benefits on his record even though he hasn’t filed yet. So, I called Social Security’s 800 number and explained my situation. The phone rep told me that I can’t get any benefits from my ex until he files for Social Security himself. I read her the part of your column that said I am due benefits now, and she said, “Who are you going to believe: some clueless guy who writes a newspaper column, or me, an official government representative?” And then she hung up! So, what do you suggest I do?

A: Well, I don’t suppose it would help to call her back and tell her that the “clueless guy” worked for the Social Security Administration for 32 years and has written a nationally syndicated column about Social Security for about 25 years. I don’t think it would impress her.

But here’s what should impress her. Either go to your local Social Security office or call the toll-free number (800-

772-1213) and absolutely insist on filing a claim. The law clearly says a divorced woman can file for benefits on an ex-husband’s record even if he is not yet collecting benefits. He must be old enough to be eligible for Social Security -- essentially meaning he has to be 62 or older. But that’s it. Then, once your benefits start and you get an official “award letter,” it would be great if you could somehow track down that phone rep who wouldn’t let you file a claim, read her the award letter and tell her that despite her failings as a public servant, the “clueless guy” helped you get your benefits started.

Anyway, I hope all my readers got the message of this column: When in doubt, demand to file a claim for benefits to protect your rights and get a legal decision.

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.”

COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Co-op and Condo Purchasing Process

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

You have finally found “your place to call home” and arrived at an agreed and accepted on your purchase of a co-op. You have submitted your offer with your pre-approval from your bank or if cash proof of funds. Some sellers will ask to see your financials prior to going to contract to be confident that you are financially strong enough to pass the co-op board. Then the contract is made up by the seller’s attorney and sent to the buyer’s attorney for review.

Once all the terms are agreed upon by the attorneys and their clients and the final contract is drafted then the contract is signed first by the buyer and then the seller. All required agency, lead, housing anti-discrimination, and buyer disclosures should also be signed too by both parties. Over the last few years, I have seen some buyers will do an inspection prior to signing their contract to make sure there aren’t any hidden issues with the building structure. Sometimes, the buyer’s attorney will ask for the most recent board meeting minutes. Sometimes it will have information about any future capital improvements that might be considered or approved to be completed. This could cause either an assessment or an increase in monthly maintenance. From my experience, management will not email them but will allow minutes to be reviewed in their office by the buyer or his/her attorney.

It is now time to be prepared and gather all your current financials together. Most recent tax returns, W-2s, if salaried, or 1099s, if self-employed, bank accounts, all asset accounts, e.g. bonds, stocks, etc. Most items should be noted on your tax returns. The next step is to request to have your agent email you a sales application that when done will be handed into the management office. It is crucial that you follow the exact directions on the application and proceed with filling it out and answering all the questions in the most accurate fashion. It is critically important to be an “open book” and disclose all your assets and liabilities. There are times that co-ops can even go so far as to request the IRS to verify your income

tax returns by filling out form 4506. They will also ask for personal and business references to ascertain the strength of your character as they know you best as a person. Most buyers should have sufficient and solid personal and business relationships. Be straightforward, candid, and upfront with your information as it will make your package complete. A few co-ops have switched to an online program that allows all participants in the transaction to fill it out which makes it a more seamless and efficient procedure. This simplifies the process, especially if there are several people and/or family members involved, as it can be forwarded to each individual, as each section is completed; especially if there are several purchasers who reside in different locations. Co-op applications specifically inquire about your finances as they want you to paint them a picture of how strong a candidate you are. This will allow management and the board to have the most positive opinion and view of you and whomever else is part of the purchasing process. It will make them feel the most comfortable enabling you to pass the management and board review allowing you to purchase.

When filling in the financial data, again, it is extremely important to provide all the pertinent information exactly as they are asking for it. Also, by New York State law application fees today can only be a maximum of $20. It is also important to put your packages together in the exact order of the questions asked. It’s prudent to have your agent review your package to make sure everything is done correctly and completed in the proper order. If you need additional help ask your agent. Then you will need to duplicate as many packages as are required as noted in the instructions. Each completed package should be in individual binders w/color coded tabs to separate each section to make it as easy as pos-

sible for the review process for management and the board. The impression and presentation you convey in your packagers are important, but your income, debt/ income, and credit are paramount in passing the board. Make sure to add the required checks that will go to the management. If you have questions reach out to either your agent or the management company. Their contact info is always on the board sales application. When done, you should either drop off your completed packages in person (or if allowed, your agent can assist); so management can go over them or if you are very far away overnight them.

Once reviewed by management and accepted then they will be sent to the board for their final review. If all is good, management will call to schedule an appointment in the evening for you to meet the board. Once you pass the board, both attorneys have to set up a closing and if financed with a lender and there is a “clear to close” determined by the bank. It is usually within 2 plus weeks or less if it is a cash transaction that a closing will occur. You should ask your attorney about what you will need to bring with you, e.g. certified and regular checks and I.D. A final walk through is scheduled the day of or one day before the closing to make sure everything in the unit is as it was when you last saw it and that the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, ACs, washer/dryer or whatever appliances were included functions properly (ask about any warranties or paperwork).

The closing should take approximately 1½-2½ hours assuming everyone is on time, all the necessary paperwork and documents are available and completed and the monies from the funding bank are ready. Upon completion, you will get your keys to your new home and don’t forget the mailbox keys too.

Obviously, there are many facets to buying a co-op, but it is the most

cost-effective and economical way for one to purchase in getting a “foot in the door” to become an owner and begin growing your future wealth.

Continue to Donate to the Ukrainian Crisis and save a life or 2: https://usaforiom.org/iomsukraine-response/

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 40 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 in 2022 has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly construction. He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well 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. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

You can email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your request or ideas, suggestions or interview you for a specific topic and a Q & A for a future column with your name, email and cell number. He will email or call you back and respond to your request ASAP as long as he has your complete name, cell, email and/or full home or business address. Again, for a “FREE” 15 minute consultation, he can also be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.

weight off and those who regained weight they lost. Some 470 adults were analyzed (62% were women) with a history of overweight or obesity and significant weight loss in the year prior to the study. Participants were classified as maintainers or regainers and were asked to fill in a series of questionnaires on dietary intake and eating behaviors, physical activity

and sleep. The participants were rated using a Mediterranean Lifestyle Index.

The study found that those who scored the highest in the Mediterranean Lifestyle Index had 28% higher odds for maintaining their weight loss.

The researchers added that even modest shifts toward healthier living may contribute to long-term weight loss.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illi-

nois. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on

Twitter @NutritionRD.. COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS

Add our weekly Professional Guide to your advertising plan. Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for rates and information.

STARGAZERS

Seeing the Inner Planets at Dusk

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of December 18-24, 2022

It’s always fun to ask stargazers why they believe that, if Mercury is the closest planet to the sun, it’s not also the hottest of our solar system. That honor belongs to Venus, nearly twice as far from the searing heat of our star.

The reason, of course, is rather simple. Venus is shrouded by a thick cloudy atmosphere of mostly carbon dioxide gas that acts like a blanket and holds in heat. Mercury, on the other hand, has virtually no atmosphere so, while it’s still quite hot, much of the sun’s heat captured by its surface during the daytime can radiate back into space during the Mercurian night.

Another difference between the two planets is how bright they appear in our sky. The Venusian atmosphere serves as a highly efficient reflector that shoots back into space nearly two-thirds of all sunlight falling on it. The darker rocky surface of Mercury, by contrast, reflects only 11% of the sunlight it receives. This means that the two planets appear strikingly different in brightness and color.

This week stargazers have a great chance to check out our solar system’s two innermost planets as they appear near one another shortly after sunset.

You’ll have little trouble spotting Venus; it shines low in the southwestern sky at dusk with a brilliant white

light and is easily the brightest object in the evening sky.

Above and to its left you should see Mercury, appearing as a fainter, yellowish “star.” If you spot it, you can consider yourself fortunate; it’s been said that the great 16th century Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus -- who calculated the movements of the planets -- never actually saw this world with his own eyes.

If you aim a small telescope toward Venus, you’ll see only a tiny white disk. That’s because Venus is currently on the opposite side of the sun -- about as distant as it can ever become and is directly lit by sunlight. Give it a few more months, however, and this planet will swing around to our side of the sun. When it does, it will appear higher and brighter in our western sky at dusk and will appear in a quarter phase by spring and a crescent shape by summer.

Next, try aiming your telescope toward Mercury, but don’t be surprised by how tiny and blurry it appears. First off, this planet is barely the size of the continental United States. And secondly, its appearance near the horizon means that its light must pass through a tremendous amount of distorting atmosphere before reaching our eyes.

If you’re lucky enough to see a steady image, you might notice that Mercury now appears in a nearly full phase. Keep watch over the next week or so and you’ll see it gradually evolve into a

crescent before vanishing in the sun’s glare near the end of the month.

If you have trouble spotting these planets, on Saturday, Dec. 24 the (very) thin crescent moon will create a beautiful sight to the left of this pair after sunset. The following night the thicker

crescent moon will appear much easier to spot above and to their left.

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Honk if You Like Santa

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

As I circled the mall parking lot for the 30th time, I finally saw a pair of red lights two rows over that let me know someone was pulling out. I quickly threw my car into reverse and sped over to the row. But as I arrived at the spot and put on my turn signal, another car arrived at the same time from the opposite direction and put his turn signal on, too. I knew immediately that this was going to be an ugly holiday parking standoff and I prepared myself for the worst. I stared into the driver’s seat of the other car to see who my parking spot adversary was, and I saw...

Santa Claus.

Yes, it was Old Saint Nick. Kris Kringle. Father Christmas. Whatever you want to call him. I could see his cherry red cheeks and long white beard and the not-so-merry twinkle in his eye. He was decked out in his finest red suit,

shaking his fist at me and pointing to the spot.

I was momentarily flustered. Why was Santa driving? Why didn’t he come on his reindeer? That would have made more sense. I’m sure there was plenty of reindeer parking in the back. Plus, I’m sure he knew the mall parking would be crazy this time of year. One of his elves could have just called him an Uber and avoided all the hassle.

But here he was, behind the wheel of a beat-up Chevy Malibu, looking to play chicken with me for a parking spot at the mall. He pointed to his white beard and red hat, as though expecting me to honor some kind of Santa seniority clause. I shook my head no. I don’t know how they do things at the North Pole, but down here in the lower 48, we don’t give preference to big, jolly guys in red suits.

As we waited for the other car to pull out, I thought about the consequences. I

was pretty sure if I took the spot, I was going to end up on the naughty list. Was I ready to get a lump of coal in my stocking for the last parking spot at the mall? Yes. Yes, I was. It might cost me two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree, but I was going to get that spot.

I gunned my engine to let him know I meant business, and then I stopped. Suddenly I realized that maybe Santa was fighting me for the spot because he was late for his duties inside. There was probably a mile-long line of kids who had been waiting hours to sit on Santa’s lap. Was I really such a Scrooge that I’d keep Santa from giving these kids that moment of pure wonder and delight?

In my hesitation, I failed to notice another car driving up the row, and before I knew what happened, it shot out from behind me and flew into the empty spot. Santa and I both stared incredulously as we saw our parking spot stolen right out from under our

noses.

Within moments, a large woman with white hair and a bright red coat emerged from the car and I realized, without a doubt, it was...

Mrs. Claus.

As she dashed past my car, I rolled down my window.

“Hey, Mrs. Claus.” I cried. “That was not very Christmassy of you!”

Then she ran through the rows and yelled, out of sight...

“You all are too slow. Too bad and good night.”

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 2022 CREATORS

On Saturday, Dec. 24 the (very) thin crescent moon will create a beautiful sight to the left of Mercury and Venus after sunset.

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HELP WANTED

ADMINISTRATIVE OPENING

Fallsburg Central School Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Services NYS SDA or SDL Certification Required. Please forward resume & Fallsburg’s application (located at fallsburgcd.net) by Dec 23rd to: Fallsburg-recruitment@scboces.org

Attn: Assistant Director Search EOE

HIRING MAIL SORTERS $16.00-$17.00, Pickers / Packers Springfield Gardens $17.00 Mystery Shoppers Ages 21-25 $20.00 860 Long Island Ave, Deer Park, NY 631-586-4699

CAREER TRAINING

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

TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-5436440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) Computer with internet is required.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Get DIRECTV FOR $64.99 / month for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.). Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-534-6918

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP 516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-SilverMirrors-Lamps-Artwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4 Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org Items to Consign? Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Like us on Facebook & Instagram

FLORIDA

SATSUMA MANDARINS

Tree ripe harvested Easy to peel Perfect for kids and Christmas gifts. Go to website: www.barlcitrus.com to place your order. Shipped daily 15 lb. box $45 w/free shipping

MARKETPLACE

INVITED ESTATE SALES

BY TRACY JORDAN is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now! Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information.

Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!

LENOX HOLIDAY CHINA

5 Piece Service for 12 $1,050 Additional accessory pieces and glassware sold separate. GRAYMONT (PLATINUM TRIM)

Service for 12+ with additional accessory pieces by Grace China, 83 pieces $550. Call 917-414-0967

AUCTIONS

COOL OLD STUFF IN GLEN COVE VINTAGE SHOP. WINNER OF BEST OF NASSAU COUNTY 2021. GREAT PRICED items for Boat and Home. See ALL online: Wilsonsdrydock.com. For info/ appt Please call 516662-2821

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516-270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com

MARKETPLACE

TAG SALE

MOVING SALE

GARDEN CITY

Everything must go! Furniture, Designer Clothing, Sports Equipment, Christmas Gifts! Much More!! Monday, Tues, Wednesday 12/19, 12/20, 12/21 10 a.m. 215 New Hyde Park Rd, Garden City, NY 11530

APPOINTMENTS

PREFERRED 516-398-0407

a n nd d f f a ax x e e s s

•

• L Liiggh h t p ph h o onne e d u ut t y y

• • P Prre e v viioou u s e e x x p pe e r riie e n n c ce e i in n o of f f fi i c ce e ad dm m i in n

• • A Abbi l lit t y y t to o p prri i o orri i t ti i z ze e & m m u ult t itta a s s k k

• • S Sttrroon n g g A At t t te e n nt t ioon n t t o o d d et ta a i il l

• • S Sttrroon n g O O r rgga a n niizza a t i ioonna a l sk ki i l llls s

• • F Fu u lll- t tiim m e e T Te e m m p poorra a r ry y (s s e ea a s s o onna a l ) )

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR TO BREAST CANCER RECOVERY! Tax Deduction Receipt Given Upon Pick-Up, Free Towing. 501C Charity. 631-988-9043 breastcancerresearchrecovery.org

DRIVE OUT BREAST CANCER: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup 24hr response Tax deduction Easy to do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755

WHEELS

FOR WISHES

benefitting Make-A-Wish Northeast New York. Your Car Donations Matter NOW More Than Ever! Free Vehicle Pick Up ANYWHERE. We Accept Most Vehicles Running or Not. 100% Tax Deductible. Minimal To No Human Contact. Call: 877-798-9474 Car Donation Foundation d/b/a Wheels For Wishes. www.wheelsforwishes.org

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENT

GARDEN CITY BORDER APARTMENTS

Huge, bright 2BR, 2 bath apt. $2,485 + electric. Gated parking. Laundry room, air conditioning, hardwood floors, Near LIRR. Avail 1/15/23.

NO BROKER FEE www.gardencityborder.com Voice or text: 516-524-6965

SERVICES

ARE YOU BEHIND 10K OR MORE on your taxes? Stop wage and bank levies, liens and audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, and resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATEC LAWN SPRINKLERS

FALL DRAIN OUTS

Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service/Repairs Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

CHIMNEY KING ENT. INC. FREE ESTIMATES

Stainless steel liners, cleaning & repair specialists. Masonry specialist.

FULLY licensed & insured. NYC NASSAU SUFFOLK 516-766-1666 or 631-225-2600

Since 1982 chimneykinginc.com

DON’T PAY FOR COVERED HOME REPAIR AGAIN!

American Residential Warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE / $100 OFF POPULAR PLANS. 833-398-0526

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

HANDYMAN

Careful & Reliable

Serving GARDEN CITY and surrounding area since 2003 Repairs & Installations of all types

Carpentry, Moldings, Lighting and More 35-yr Nassau Resident References Lic#170101

Phone/Text Friendly Frank: 516-238-2112 Email: Frankcav@optonline.net

MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli. com 516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps.

Free Estimates Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000 Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY! Slate & Tile Specialists All types of Roofing Local References Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

WIREMAN/CABLEMAN

Flat TVs mounted, Phone, TVs & Computer wiring installed & serviced, camera & stereos, HDTV Antennas FREE TV www.davewireman.com 516-433-WIRE (9473 631-667-WIRE (9473) or TEXT 516-353-1118

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

Interior, Exterior, Plaster / Spackle, Light Carpentry, Decorative Moldings & Power Washing. Call: 516-328-7499

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY Your Next Party!

Catering and Experienced Professional Services for Assisting with Preparation, Serving and Clean Up Before, During and After Your Party Bartenders Available. Call Kate at 516-248-1545

SERVICES

A & J MOVING & STORAGE:

Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www.ajmoving.com 516-741-2657

114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NY DOT# 10405

DISH TV

$64.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo expires 1/21/23 Call 1-866-595-6967

LEAK REPAIRS

Plumbing Repairs Bathrooms, Showers, Kitchens

24 HOUR SERVICE Call 516-668-5624

MAGNUM SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.

Serving Garden City for 40 years.

Let Magnum Upgrade Your Existing Security System. Burglar & Fire Alarms

Cellular Radio 3G Upgrades Remote Access Call: 516-486-5484

PASSION FOR SENIORS

Certified HHA’s, Companions & Homemakers. 24 hour care available. Also Nassau Locations. Trained in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Call 718-850-3400

Chocolate is the star in this crowd-pleasing cookie

Thick Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Cookies garner a lot fanfare come the holiday season. They’re given as gifts, left out for Santa and shared with family and friends. Rolled and cut cookies get the bulk of the attention, especially when frosted and decorated to perfection. But plenty of classic cookies are equally at home on holiday cookie plates or nestled in

cookie jars. This recipe for “Thick Chocolate Chunk Cookies,” courtesy of “Live Well Bake Cookies” (Rock Point) by Danielle Rye creates huge, gooey cookies that are big on chocolate flavor. On occasions when chips won’t do, chocolate chunk cookies can add sweetness to any event.

Makes 14 cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) cold, unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces

1) Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

2) In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt until well combined. Set aside.

3) In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the cubed cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes, or until well combined.

4) Mix in the eggs, one at a

Last Hope is Part of the Chewy.com Rescue Program

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1 cup packed light brown sugar

1/3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 bag semisweet chocolate chunks

time, then mix in the vanilla extract, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5) Mix the dry ingredients until just combined, then mix in the chocolate chunks on low speed until fully incorporated.

6) Using a 1⁄3-cup measuring cup, measure out the balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one.

7) Cover the cookie dough balls tightly with plastic wrap and

refrigerate for at least 2 hours. 8) Preheat the oven to 350 F. 9) Remove the baking sheets from the refrigerator and bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes, ur until the tops are set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 15 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

10) Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Kindergarten Rec Night at Robbins Lane School

LEGAL

NASSAU COUNTY

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

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 4, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 17, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 114 Morton Boulevard, Plainview, NY 11803. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 47, Block 19 and Lot 35. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 8744/13. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Michael Venditto, Esq., Referee Berkman, Henoch, Peterson, & Peddy, P.C., 100 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff

NASSAU COUNTY FORECLOSURE NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY DITECH FINANCIAL LLC, F/K/A GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC, Plaintiff against MUKRAJ SINGH A/K/A MUKHRAJ SINGH, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 103N, Westbury, NY 11590. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered May 30, 2018, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 17, 2023 at 2:30 PM. Premises known as 15 Cornwall Lane, Hicksville, NY 11801. Sec 0011 Block 0033700 Lot 00008. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Hicksville, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Approximate Amount of Judgment is $678,849.39 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 016677/2008. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Foreclosure Auctions will be held "Rain or Shine." Richard Kerins, Esq., Referee AYSJN023

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2006-HE7, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-HE7, Plaintiff, AGAINST MELANIE ARTOGLOU AKA MELANIE A. ARTOGLOU AKA MELANIE ARNAIZ, et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on September 26, 2019.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 18, 2023 at 2:30 PM premises known as 364 Central Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714.

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 46, Block 113 and Lot 474.

Approximate amount of judgment $1,172,822.52 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #012141/2014.

Michael Annibale, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLP - Attorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747

From page 1

Leroy is charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree.

Small business grants available

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that $4.5 million in Federal money secured by the Town will soon be available to small business owners and non-profit organizations financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning Tuesday, November 29th, businesses and notfor-profit organizations can apply to receive up to $5,000 in grant monies through this new initiative, known as the ‘Oyster Bay Forward’ Grant Program.

“After a year-plus long pandemic and now facing an economic recession, small businesses need all the help they can get to stay afloat,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “My administration earmarked these Federal funds to boost small businesses and not-for-profits, help them recover losses from the pandemic, and keep their operations moving forward in the Town of Oyster Bay.”

The ‘Oyster Bay Forward’ Grant Program is open to businesses that employ up to 50 full-time equivalent W-2 employees as well as sole proprietors.

Applications will be processed through the National Development Council (NDC) . Additional eligibility criteria, including required documents, as well as applications for eligible business and non-profit organizations are available at TOBForward.com, where interested parties can also sign up to participate in an informative webinar further detailing the application process.

Division Ave. HS cheerleaders are champions

The Division Avenue High School varsity cheerleading team won the New York State Game Day East Invitational in their division.

The Division Avenue High School varsity cheerleading team in the Levittown Public School District won the New York State Game Day East Invitational on Oct. 29.

Coached by Cristen Ronzo and Liz Lynch, the team traveled to Arlington to compete and walked away with the

win in their division. They were pronounced the 2022 NYSPHSAA Class C Champions. The team is led by seniors Liz Catania, Danielle Kennedy (captain), Sydney Martins (captain), Sofia Rella (captain), Ava Soto (captain), Kyra Bollinger and Courtney Moore. Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools

The team is coached by Liz Lynch and Cristen Ronzo.

Town: File for property tax exemptions now

Oyster

Bay Town Receiver of Taxes

Jeff Pravato has announced that residents may apply for New York State property tax exemptions from now through January 2, 2023. Homeowners wishing to receive exemptions on their 2023–2024 School taxes and 2024 General taxes must file with the Nassau County Department of Assessment or New York State prior to the January 2 deadline.

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

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

• School Tax Relief Program (STAR)-- Residents may receive only one of the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Persons With Disabilities and Limited Incomes Partial Property Tax Exemption is available to eligible applicants who have a physical or mental impairment, not due to use of alcohol or illegal drug use, that substantially limits that person's ability to engage in one or more major life activities. The requirements to qualify are based on the person's disability, ownership, residency and occupancy status, and income. Persons with incomes less than $58,399 can qualify to receive an exemption from 5% to 50% of the assessed value.

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

• Home Improvements Exemption is an eight-year decreasing exemption on alterations, reconstructions or improvements that increase the assessed value of a one or two family home. In the first year, 100% of the assessed value of the improvement is exempt. In the second year, 87.5%, in the third year, 75% and so on. Certain eligibility requirements must be met to participate in this program.

• First-Time Home Buyers of Newly Constructed Homes may apply for and receive a partial real property

tax exemption. The maximum exemption is offered over five years, starting with a 50% exemption the first year and phasing to 10% in the fifth and final year. Homebuyers are subject to certain price and income limits set by the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA).

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

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

Residents interested in obtaining a free brochure describing the STAR, Senior Citizen, or Veterans exemption programs can obtain such at Town Hall North in Oyster Bay, Town Hall South in Massapequa, the Department of Public Works in Syosset, major park facilities, and by calling (516) 624-6380 or www.oysterbaytown.com .

Season’s Greetings

Michele Gort

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson costellogortteam@compass.com M: 516.526.9936

Andrea Costello

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson costellogortteam@compass.com M: 516.457.6451