Mid-Island Times (3/14/25) by Litmor Publishing

SERVING PLAINVIEW, HICKSVILLE, AND LEVIT TOWN

2 named National Merit Finalists

Bethpage High School’s National Merit Finalists, Ibrahim Rana and Joseph Bashker with Superintendent of Schools David Schneider and Bethpage High School Principal Nicholas Jantz. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Bethpage High School seniors Ibrahim Rana and Joseph Bashker have been named National Merit Finalists, advancing to the final stage of the prestigious scholarship competition hosted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Initially recognized as semifinalists in September, they are now among 15,000 students nation-

wide to earn this distinction.

Achieving National Merit Finalist status requires more than just high PSAT scores. Students must confirm their academic excellence with strong SAT results, maintain an outstanding academic record, receive a school official’s recommendation and submit a comprehensive application detailing course-

work, extracurricular activities, volunteer work and a personal essay. Finalists receive a Certificate of Merit and qualify for National Merit Scholarships.

For Ibrahim Rana, science is more than a subject—it’s a passion with real world impact. Drawn to biology and chemistry, he has dedicated See page 10

Polar Plunge to return to TOBAY Beach

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the annual Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 29, at TOBAY Beach.

“Many of our residents head to TOBAY Beach for summer fun, but this event provides an enjoyable and charitable reason to spend a great day at the beach much sooner,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Participants will have an opportunity to prove their mettle and their compassion by wading into the chilly waters of TOBAY Beach to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York.”

The event kicks off with winter festival fun and registration starting at 9:00 a.m., with the plunge beginning at 11 a.m. Requested donation is $25 per participant. Plungers who raise $150 receive a commemorative Polar Plunge sweatshirt.

All of the money raised through the Polar Plunge helps provide year-round sports training and competition as well as leadership, health and inclusion programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities in your community.

“This polar plunge is sure to create lasting memories for all participants while supporting a very worthwhile cause,” added Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “Special Olympics New York changes lives through the joy of sports and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization to help make this event a success. Please join with me in braving the chilly waters for a great reason.”

Pre-register yourself, family and team today at www.PolarPlungeNY.org. For more information, call Rebecca Hoffmann at (631) 458-1579 or e-mail rhoffmann@nyso.org.

Two injured as car strikes building

Two people were injured on Tuesday, March 4, when a driver collided with the Plainview Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontics building at 1109 Old Country Road in Plainview.

According to Nassau County Police, at 9:52 a.m. a 67-year-old female driver struck the build-

ing with her 2019 Volkswagen, injuring a 20-year-old woman and 10-year-old boy who were located inside the building. Both sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment=. The operator of the vehicle was not injured and remained at scene.

Town honors OB resident for contributions Town seeks counselors for recreation program

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and members of the Town Board recognized Robert Eslick of Old Bethpage for his accomplishments and contributions as executive director of Kids Helping Kids, an amazing organization known for its “Making a Warmth of Difference” apparel program, which has delivered an abundance of new winter related apparel over the years. Robert has dedicated nearly three decades to helping our young people and supporting efforts to help them develop their fullest potential.Supervisor Saladino and his colleagues on the Oyster Bay Town Board honored Robert who was joined by his family, and presented him with a Town citation, commending him for his efforts, thanking him for making a positive difference and strong impact, while helping so many in need.

Hicksville FD organizing Memorial Day Parade

The Hicksville Fire Department will be holding an organizational meeting for the Annual Memorial Day Parade on Saturday, March 22, at the Levittown Parkway Station 4 firehouse at 10 a.m.

Any organization that wishes to participate is welcome to attend. If you are unable to attend, but wish to participate, please contact Chief Michael Murphy at 516-933-6446 x103.

The Town of Oyster Bay is seeking counselors ages 16 and older for the 2025 Summer Recreation Program. The six-week program provides a rewarding employment experience for counselors as they work with children and make a difference.

“This great summer job is ideal for residents age 16 or older who are looking to build their resume,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Our summer recreation counselors get realworld experience while having fun, making memories, and making a difference in the lives of others.”

Applicants must be available for the duration of the program, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, beginning June 30 through August 8. Orientation will take place the week of June 23. Summer Recreation Program participants take part in trips, tournaments, shows and athletic events, including the TOBAY

Games, making being a counselor a great first job for many residents.

Employment opportunities are offered at Marjorie R. Post (Massapequa), Plainview-Old Bethpage and Syosset-Woodbury Community Parks, Ellsworth W. Allen Town Park in Farmingdale and Tappen Beach in Glenwood Landing.

“The Town has positions available for counselors, coordinators, leaders and assistant leaders at all locations, especially at our north shore facilities at Syosset-Woodbury Park and Tappen Beach,” said Councilman Monteleone. “Spots fill quickly and we encourage all interested residents to fill out an application today.”

For more information, prospective counselors should contact Town’s Department of Parks at (516) 797-7945 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/summerrecreation.

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Fork Lane students groove to Rhythms of America Town accepting applications for 9/11 Walls of Honor

Students at Fork Lane Elementary School in Hicksville recently enjoyed an engaging, interactive experience with Rhythms of the Americas. The bilingual assembly highlighted the influence of Latin American music and culture, emphasizing the importance of embracing cultural diversity through dance and performance.

Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

The Town of Oyster Bay is accepting applications for families to add the names of loved ones to the 9/11 Walls of Honor. This memorial pays tribute to residents and individuals with ties to the Town who lost their lives due to 9/11-related illnesses, including cancers linked to toxic exposure at Ground Zero. Each September, newly inscribed names are unveiled, ensuring that these heroes and their sacrifices are never forgotten.

“The 9/11 attacks took thousands of lives in an instant, but the devastation didn’t end that day,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We continue to lose first responders, downtown workers, residents, and students to illnesses caused by toxic exposure. Each week, more brave individuals succumb to these 9/11-related conditions. Just as rescue and recovery workers rushed to Ground Zero without hesitation, we honor their legacy by ensuring their names and sacrifices live on.”

According to the World Trade Center

Health Program, nearly 43,000 individuals are currently receiving treatment for 9/11-related health conditions, with over 10,000 cases of cancer linked to exposure at the site. Tragically, more than 2,500 responders and survivors have lost their battle with these illnesses.

The 9/11 Walls of Honor were established through the leadership of Supervisor Saladino, the Town Board, and a dedicated volunteer committee, including retired FDNY EMS Lieutenant Bill Gleason, retired NYPD Detective Tom Luberto, Deacon Dave White, Jericho Fire Commissioner Frank Sammartano, North Massapequa Fire Commissioner Ralph Raymond, Massapequa Fire Commissioner Justin McCaffrey, and Rescue & Recovery Worker Joseph Pinto.

Families interested in adding a loved one’s name to the 9/11 Walls of Honor can download an application at www.oysterbaytown.com/wallsofhonor.

Abbey Lane hosts “Very Important Person” day

Fourth graders at Abbey Lane Elementary School in the Levittown School District welcomed some of their closest loved ones for a special “Very Important Person” day on Feb. 13 and 14.

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, each student selected a parent, grandparent, sibling or cousin to show their appreciation. Guests sat in the audience

as each fourth grader read a letter of love and gratitude about the VIP they chose. Each loved one also received a rose to celebrate the occasion. The event gave students an opportunity to practice their writing and public speaking skills through a topic they felt passionate about.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

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Abbey Lane Elementary School fourth grader Amelia Castro read a tribute to her grandfather for “Very Important Person” day on Feb. 13.

Fourth grade teacher Ms. McAuley helped her students with their presentations.

LONG LIVE

Many ways to access great doctors? We have that. Simple mobile app? We have that, too. Convenient locations for primary, specialty, and urgent care? Absolutely. On Long Island, you have options in health care. But at Catholic Health, we'd like to remind you to choose you first – because we did, too. Long Live You and Long Live Long Island™ At Catholic Health,

Levittown celebrates teaching profession at monthly meeting

The Feb. 5 regular Board of Education meeting of the Levittown School District was a celebration of the teaching profession, as future teachers and a nationally recognized educator received praise.

Division Avenue High School students Maddi Edvabsky, Daniel Lang, Mia Montello and Riley Snevily gave a presentation on the Future Teachers course, which aims to equip students interested in the education profession with knowledge on teaching methods, classroom management and lesson planning. Recently, Future Teachers students were matched with second grade teachers at Summit Lane Elementary School to observe and assist in their lessons. They will soon return to Summit

Lane to host a full-period lesson. Guest speakers who occupy various educational roles throughout the district will also visit the classroom to share valuable insight.

Following their presentation, board trustees and administrators shared praise for Division Avenue music teacher Alison Sellars, who reached the highest certification in the profession: National Board Certification. The achievement signifies a deep commitment to teaching excellence and is recognized as one of the most respected and rigorous certifications a teacher can earn.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

Division Avenue High School students in the Future Teachers course gave a presentation at the Feb. 5 Board of Education meeting.

Trustees and administrators praised the students who presented as well as music teacher Alison Sellars, who achieved National Board Certification.

Artists invited to showcase work at “Art in the Park”

The Town of Oyster Bay is inviting local artists and artisans to participate in a special day of creativity and community at Art in the Park. This exciting event will take place on Saturday, May 17, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach in Oyster Bay, offering a unique platform for talented individuals to display and sell their handcrafted creations. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 9, 2025.

“Art in the Park provides an incredible opportunity for local artists and artisans to showcase their best work, connect with the community, and gain recognition,” said Town Councilman Tom Hand. “Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your creativity and be part of a vibrant community event, featuring live music, food trucks, and fun activities for kids.”

Artists and artisans must be 18

years or older and can only display and sell original, handcrafted pieces. Commercial or mass-produced items will not be permitted. Participants are responsible for supplying their own 10x10 canopy and any additional equipment needed for their space. Full details, including associated costs, are outlined in the application available online.

Organized by the Town's Department of Community & Youth Services, Cultural

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA? Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity?

and Performing Arts Division, Art in the Park celebrates a diverse range of handcrafted works, including ceramics, watercolors, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, sculptures, and more. To apply, visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/capa or contact the Cultural and Performing Arts Division at (516) 797-7932 for more information.

We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!

WHAT DOES ‘HEALTH SYSTEM’ EVEN MEAN? IT MEANS A BIG DIFFERENCE FOR YOUR HEALTH.

A health system is more than a doctor. In our case, it’s 320+ locations with the exact same high standard of care. It’s integrated medical teams that achieve the best patient outcomes. It’s leading the charge in medical discoveries. It’s the lowest mortality rates in the nation. It’s being named #1 for quality care in the U.S. Our health system has the best doctors, and the best doctors are just the beginning.

health starts with a better

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Friday, March 14

10:30 a.m.: Pressed Flower Art Workshop with Susan Barell

Pressed flower art is the latest craze in the craft world! Come learn this technique using dried flowers, a simple collage method and watercolor paints. A template and all supplies will be provided to create an adorable owl. This 2-hour workshop will be a getaway to use your creativity and go home with beautiful artwork to frame.

2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Susan Hayward: A Girl from Brooklyn with Marc Courtade

Susan Hayward was an actress noted for playing dramatic roles based on real women. She received five Academy Award nominations, winning the Oscar for her searing portrayal of convicted murderess Barbara Graham in “ I Want to Live ” . The red-headed star had a life filled with public triumph and personal tragedy, and said “I never dreamed this could happen to a girl from Brooklyn.” A look at her life shows a woman of determination and guts, and her best films are those with characters reflecting the same values.

4:00 p.m.: Lego Buddies (Grades K through 4) Build a Lego creation with the help

of teen volunteers. Teens will assist kids in creating Lego structures that display their creativity and ingenuity.

Saturday, March 15

12:00 p.m.: Tiny Songbirds (Ages 18 Months to 5 Years)

Music in early childhood helps to improve motor skills, language, manage emotions and promote creativity while building self-esteem and having fun!

Sunday, March 16

2:00 p.m.: Hilarious Afternoon of Comedy

Join us for an afternoon of comedy with three national touring comedians:

HEADLINER: Maria Walsh

• Voted Vegas ’ next Big Headliner

• Performed at the Long Island Comedy Festival

FEATURED ACT: Tugboat Manny

• Performed at The Borgata in Atlantic City and Westbury Music Fair

MC: Karen Margaret

• Long Island and NY Comedy Club Favorite. Tickets are required. Non-residents may pick up 2 tickets per person beginning two weeks before the per-

Town hiring assistants for summer tennis programs

The Town of Oyster Bay has openings available for tennis assistants in the Adult and Youth Tennis Programs, being held this summer at local Town parks.

“This fun summer job is ideal for a tennis-loving community member looking to build their resume while helping local youngsters or adults improve their game,” said Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “Town tennis assistants have a lot of fun while receiving handson experience and making a difference in the lives of others.”

Tennis assistants for the Adult Program must be 18 or older and have at

least 2 years of experience participating on a tennis team. Applicants should also be available to work from May through September and be able to take direction from the head coach to facilitate drills.

Tennis assistants for the Youth Program must be 16 or older and have 1–2 years’ experience on a tennis team. The Youth Tennis Program runs from June 30 through August 14 (including any necessary makeups).

For more information, prospective applicants should contact the Town of Oyster Bay Department of Parks, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-7945.

formance. Non-ticket holders will be seated as space allows.

Monday, March 17

2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: The Little Gems of Ireland with Mary Maguire Ireland is so much more than shamrocks, pipers and the Blarney Stone. Follow our trail as we visit the sites of Dublin, paying special attention to the National Gallery of Ireland to check out their Caravaggio and Vermeer. Then off to Trinity College to take in the Book of Kells. The Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher and all those castles with enchanting names like Kylemore, Clifden and Dromoland are calling to us. St. Patrick’ s Day is the perfect time for this magical travelogue.

Tuesday, March 18

9:30 a.m.: Adult Walking Club

Spring is just around the corner and you know what that means... Walking Club is back! (Weather permitting). All levels, all abilities are welcome. Join us for a 45 minute walk around the neighborhood. It’s an opportunity to get some exercise, meet new people, spend time with a friend and enjoy some conversation. Meet us in front of the library. Participants must wear sneakers and bring a bottle of water.

6:30 p.m.: Paint Night with Madhumita Sen Unleash your inner artist! Join our Acrylic Painting Lesson and learn to create stunning artwork, including serene night waterfront scenes with palm trees and shimmering waters. Step-by-Step Guidance for all skill levels will be provided. $5.00 per person, non-refundable.

Wednesday, March 19

10:30 a.m.: Songs for Baby’ s Day

(Ages Birth to 30 Months)

Come and enjoy this literacy building, fun, and educational musical storytime!

Thursday, March 20

9:30 a.m.: Stepping Stones to Milestones (Ages 18–-23 months)

Come join Miss Renee and Miss Amy for an adventure in Language, Learning and FUN! Creative activities will focus on helping your child as they venture down the path toward age appropriate milestones.

10:30 a.m.: Stepping Stones to Milestones (Ages 24–36 Months)

Come join Miss Renee and Miss Amy for an adventure in Language, Learning and FUN! Creative activities will focus on helping your child as they venture down the path toward age appropriate milestones.

7:00 p.m.: Teens: Ocean Origami Workshop

Come join us as we create some ocean inspired origami with The Whaling Museum!

7:00 p.m.: Books Before Bedtime (Ages 4–8)

Listen to a read a loud and then watch a short film all before bedtime!

Friday, March 21

4:00 p.m.: Climate Champions (Grades 3–6)

It’s hot for the animals too.Warmer weather affects wild animals due to changing food sources and habitats. Eagles, sharks, and ticks are just some of the creatures that Long Islanders have noticed in abundance in recent years. We will make seed bombs to take home so that you can provide native plants to help our backyard animals.

Town hiring basketball coaches, refs for summer program

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Town is looking for experienced basketball coaches and referees for the Summer Youth Basketball Program, designed for boys and girls in 3rd through 8th grade.

“This is a great opportunity for basketball enthusiasts to have some fun over the summer while making a positive impact on the youth in our community,” said Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “Coaches can start as young as age 16, allowing them to have a meaningful summer job while receiving hands-on experience and making a difference.”

All coaches must have a minimum of two years’ experience playing basketball and/or coaching a prior team. All referees must have at least two

years’ experience in refereeing basketball games. Coaches must be available to coach at least one game per week, as well as one practice per week. Coaches will be given the opportunity to set up practice at a time that works best for themselves and their team.

The basketball program will run Monday, June 16, through Thursday, August 13, (final two weeks are allotted for any necessary makeups) and evaluations will begin June 7. The program will run at Haypath Park in Old Bethpage, Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park and SyossetWoodbury Community Park. For more information, prospective applicants should contact the Town’s Department of Parks, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-7945.

Two BHS seniors named Natl. Merit Finalists

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himself to rigorous academics while also engaging in community service. He volunteers at hospitals, fundraises for medical causes, and leads organizations supporting STEM education and stray animals.

One of Ibrahim’s proudest academic achievements is excelling in AP Chemistry. “That class pushed me to develop strong study habits and resilience,” he shared. He credits his AP Chemistry teacher, Mr. Tauriello, with deepening his appreciation for science and solidifying his decision to pursue a career in medicine.

Balancing a demanding courseload with extracurriculars requires discipline, and Ibrahim relies on a structured schedule and goal setting to stay on track. “My best advice is to stay consistent, avoid procrastination and make time for things you genuinely enjoy to prevent burnout,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ibrahim plans to major in biochemistry on a pre-med track with the goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon. “Being named a

National Merit Finalist is an incredible honor,” he said. “It’s a reminder of the importance of consistent effort and has inspired me to keep challenging myself.”

Joey Bashker has a strong interest in math and science, particularly calculus and physics. In addition to his academic achievements, he is a three-sport varsity athlete, competing on Bethpage High School’s golf, tennis and marine fitness teams. He also works part-time as a lifeguard and enjoys swimming and rock climbing.

Among his academic accomplishments, Joey is especially proud of his participation on the math team and in the American Mathematics Competition. He acknowledges several teachers who have shaped his high school experience, particularly Mr. Malossi and Mr. Miller. “They not only helped me improve my English and math skills but also supported my overall growth as a student,” he said.

Balancing school, sports and work hasn’t always been easy. “In the past, I struggled with time management, and

my grades didn’t always reflect my abilities,” Joey admitted. “This year, I’ve improved a lot. My advice is to focus on activities you’re passionate about and not overwhelm yourself with too many commitments.”

Joey is considering a future in physics or engineering and is carefully weighing his college options. “Cost, program quality and personal enjoyment are my top priorities,” he shared. He encourages students to look beyond rankings and instead focus on the specific programs and financial considerations that matter most to them.

Unlike many students, Joey approached the PSAT without much preparation, which he believes worked

in his favor. “I didn’t realize how important it was at the time, so I took it with a relaxed mindset,” he explained. Later, when studying for the SAT, he initially struggled with stress and plateauing scores. “Only after taking some pressure off myself, did I get a score I was happy with.”

Being named a National Merit Finalist has eased the financial burden of college and opened new opportunities for Joey. As he looks forward to college, he is also focused on enjoying his final months of high school. “I’m excited for marine fitness nationals, our senior trip to Europe, and making the most of my senior year,” he said.

LEGAL NOTICES

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Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our main office today 294-8900 for more information.

NASSAU COUNTY FORECLOSURE NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS CWABS, INC. ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-1, Plaintiff against UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW TO THE ESTATE OF MARIE MCGAHEN

A/K/A MARIE T. MCGAHEN, AND IF THEY BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERALLY OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN THE FOLLOWING DESIGNATION, NAMELY:

THE WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSON DERIVING AN INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHO AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE

UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 8, 2019, 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 April 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM.

Premises known as 14 Foxwood Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804. District 019 Sec 47

Block 145 Lot 0018. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Old Bethpage, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is

$989,045.15 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 12280/2009. 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. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held "Rain or Shine."

George Esernio, Esq., Referee File # 6996300

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Ditech Financial LLC f/k/a Green Tree Servicing LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Michael B. Mendonez, Jr. a/k/a Michael B. Mendonez, Gracia T. Mendonez a/k/a Grace T. Mendonez, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 17, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 26, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 11 Berry Hill Lane, Bethpage, NY 11714. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 49, Block: 267, Lot: 7. Approximate amount of judgment $410,614.09 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #005296/2014. Kenneth L. Gartner, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01045133-F00 84358

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Trident Upfitting LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/10/2025. Office location: Nassau County.

SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY should mail process to Zachary Schwartz: 3376 Frederick Street, Oceanside, NY 11572. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION

Notice of Formation of XOXROBINXOX LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/05/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Robin Sohn : 156 Woodmere Blvd S, Woodmere, NY, 11598. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE

U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSORIN-INTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2006HE7, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006HE7, 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 April 7, 2025 at 2:00 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.

Lisa Segal Poczik, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLP - Attorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747

New York Travel Show: Pauline Frommer’s Annual Tips for Travel Talk Pays Homage to Father

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

This year’s travel talk by Pauline Frommer at the New York Travel Show was a homage to her father, the legendary Arthur Frommer who single-handedly inspired generations of travelers not born into family fortune to experience the world, with his guidebooks, then radio and TV shows, starting with the iconic “Europe on $5 a Day”. His philosophy, mission and love of travel that infuse the Frommer guides have remained. He passed away in November.

At her talk, titled “Travel Lessons I’ve Learned From My Father That Will Make Your Next Vacation Less Expensive and More Meaningful,” she said, “He believed money should be used smartly. He believed travel could be a life-changing activity.”

Quoting Arthur, she said, “We cannot permit ourselves to live stunted, stay- at-home lives. We need to travel if we are to enjoy the fullness of life… contact with new and the different is how we grow and develop. That may be possible in other ways than travel, but there is something about experiencing the world that cannot be duplicated… Nothing has the lasting impact of being there.”

Frommer devoted his life to guiding people how to travel inexpensively and how to have meaningful vacations, that shift who you are as a person in important

In 1957, when Arthur set out on his mission to inspire Americans to travel abroad, Americans were rich compared to rest of world - Europe was in rubble while Americans had dollars.

Arthur Frommer and Pauline Frommer appear together giving their forecast and tips for travel at the New York Travel Show in 2015. Pauline has gone on to continue her father’s legacy; the travel icon who launched millions on journeys of discovery, passed away in November © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“Now we are in the same position - currently the Euro is almost equal to the $1: $1.02 to 1e (in 2016 it was $1.36 to 1e. The Japanese yen has never been this weak, 156 yen to $1; the dollar is worth 1.44 Canadian and the Mexican peso is at 20.78. It has never been so good.”

On the other hand many travel companies are using AI to raise prices surgically, depending upon your prior buying habits - what Joe Biden’s Federal Trade Commission called “surveillance pricing.”

Have you had the experience of searching for an airfare, finding one, but going off to think about it for awhile, only to return and find the fare $50 higher? “That’s because you are being watched; the amount of surveillance is insane.”

Frommer’s antidote? “When searching for travel goods and services, be private - hide your identity. For example, subscribe to a VPN (virtual private network) to hide who you are; clear your cache and cookies. Use a different computer.

The best search engines for airfares, she recommends. are Momondo (Kayak) and Skyscanner.

But, she adds, “Then you don’t buy on them. There are so many issues in air travel, if you buy from a third party [like an OTA, an online travel agent], you are last in line if something goes wrong. Search on the website, then buy from the airline.”

There are also days that are best to purchase air fares: Frommer recommends purchasing an airfare on Sunday can yield 6% savings on

domestic fare, 17% savings on international.

Also, “buy 1-3 months out for domestic travel (for a 25% savings), 18-29 days out for international (for a 10% savings). Last year, it was 4 months out, but she acknowledges, “it takes courage to book so close.”

You get the best fares if you start your trip on a Thursday or Saturday (16% savings over flying on a Sunday). “Sunday is the most expensive day to start a trip.”

Also, given the “chaos in the sky” with the doubling of cancellations in 2024, she recommends, “fly before 3 pm, or up the risk of being cancelled or delayed by 50%.” If you fly after 9 pm, your risk of being delayed or cancelled goes up by 57%. Fly after 9 pm and your risk of being delayed or cancelled goes up 57%

To get the best rate for a hotel, Frommer suggests booking threeplus months in advance for resorts, but just one week before in business-travel cities.

“Always get a reservation you can cancel.”

Vacation home rentals, such as through airbnb.com may not be cheaper than hotels because of housekeeping fees and taxes (unless you are a family or couples traveling together), but typically afford more space, the convenience of kitchen and laundry, and are typically in neighborhoods so you get to connect with local people.

Looking for added value in accommodations? Consider hostels: “There are wonderful hostels all around the world, where you get private rooms, private bathrooms for much less than a hotel. There usually is a common March 14, 2025

Continued on next page

Pauline Frommer’s Annual Tips for Travel Talk Pays Homage to Father

Continued from previous page

area, a place where you can cook your own meal, do your laundry.” “Typically there are also opportunities to meet and socialize with other travelers, as I found in Quito, Ecuador, where I was invited to a communal dinner.

To find a tour, Frommer recommends: travelstride.com and tourradar.com, which are marketplace sites for tours. You put in dates and where you want to go and then can compare prices, highlights, what is offered.

Travel insurance is recommended when you are taking a long-distance, expensive tour and want protection against cancellation (but read the fine print); but what you may well want when traveling abroad is medical insurance, covering evacuation if necessary. (Medicare isn’t applicable abroad.)

You can search for the policy that works best for your purpose at: Squaremouth.com insuremytrip.com travelinsurance.com

“Put in details and it generates a list. Inevitably the best is not the most expensive but in the middle cost range. No travel insurance company is always the best.” Also, she advises, “Never buy insurance through the travel provider.”

Every year, the Frommers offer their recommendations for where to go in the coming year. The hallmarks of the list have become finding the less crowded destinations worth a visit. (See the full article frommers.com/bestplaces2025)

Crete in Greece: it is one of the least crowded of the Greek islands because it is the largest- twice size of Rhode Island, while most travelers go to Mykonos or Santorini. “Santorini got 3 million visitors in 2024 – it was so hairy on the roads, the government asked the Santorini citizens to stay off the roads at certain hours

BY CHARLYN FARGO

because of the traffic jams with tour buses.” But Crete is the land of “Zorba the Greek”. “It is the most Greek of Greek islands, once part of the Venetian Empire, it looks like Venice and has incredible ancient ruins from when it was the center of the Minoan civilization – think Minator and Labyrinth.”

Looking to do an African safari? A safari in Zambia, famous for Victoria Falls , one of tallest in world, is as much as 25% less costly than Tanzania or Kenya. “They have all the animals - giraffes, elephants, hippos, lions - and also have a progressive system where the rangers who stop poaching are women. It is also one of the safest countries in Africa. Support them.”

Greenland is top of mind lately. “Bizarrely, Greenland just expanded its airport, so for the first time, can accommodate large jets. For the first time, you can go to this ice-covered nation direct from New York in the time it takes to go to Iceland. 80% of Greenland is covered by ice – you can do heli-skiing, snowshoeing, glacier cruises, see polar bears. “Go before it’s too crowded. It’s a great adventure destination.”

The Caribbean country of Barbuda (part of Antigua and Barbuda) is an undeveloped, beautiful, pristine island (because it never had a big airport) that made the news 40 years ago when Princess Diana visited thinking she could escape the paparazzi. ..Barbuda is finally getting an international airport and Robert De Niro is building a resort on Barbuda, she said. “See it while it is in its more pristine state.”

Bath and Hampshire, England are “going crazy” this year over the 250th birthday of novelist Jane Austin (“Pride and Prejudice”, “Sense & Sensibility”) – there are Empire-style costumes you can rent, special exhibits. Bath also has one of England’s most important

Roman ruins.

Tucson, Arizona is turning 250 years old this year, as well, and mounting celebrations all year long. Also, Tucson is the only city in the United States that is part of the Dark Sky program. On the edge of the city, Saguaro National Park, there is a free observatory you can go at night to look at stars with astronomers. Tucson is also the place for foodies, with a 4000-year old culinary tradition. “The United Nations named it the only culinary UNESCO World Heritage site in the US. There are all kinds of food celebrations for the 250th

“My father said, ‘Don’t just go to dead sites.’ If I had never traveled, I would never have understood that all people, no matter how exotic their appearance, have basically the same concerns, the same desires. Don’t just go to see things, but meet people.”

To meet people when you travel:

The International Greeter Association connects you to people who love their home communities and give free tours. You can go to Tokyo and find a greeter to take you around Tokyo for a day, teach you how to use subway, show you a neighborhood, free.”

Find other free tours led by locals through the International Greeter Association, a worldwide nonprofit organization offering private free walks with locals through some 400 cities in 60 countries. https://internationalgreeter.org). Also, GetYourGuide.com.

Airbnb/experiences provides links to little companies with people with experiences to share. Frommer related taking her 15-year old daughter on a tour of Paris consignment stores with a fashion expert. “We have been to Paris many times but saw things never had.”

TravelingSpoon.com and EatWith. com link travelers to culinary experiences with local people, the best local cooks

Labels for Processed Foods

Ultra-processed foods seem to be the new thing to avoid, but in reality, the label may not correctly classify some foods.

This system of categorizing food as unprocessed, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods and ultra-processed foods came from a group of Brazilian researchers. They designed a system to categorize foods according to the degree of processing they undergo.

The problem is, processing seems to be a bad thing, right? Not really. Even oil, butter, vinegar, sugar and salt have to be processed, so they’re labeled “processed culinary ingredients.” Those categorized as processed foods include cheese, fresh breads, canned or frozen vegetables and fruits, canned fish, smoked or cured meats, bacon, salted nuts, beer and wine.

Many would argue that some of those foods (especially beer, wine, bread and cheese) aren’t really all that bad. Many times, processing is used mainly for preservation.

Then we have the ultra-processed category. This group includes soft drinks, packaged snacks, frozen or packaged foods, and even plant-based meat, dairy and protein powders. (Yep, almond milk and Impossible burgers fall into this category).

The researchers found that a group of 20 adults consumed more calories from a diet high in ultra-processed foods versus unprocessed foods when allowed to eat as much as they wanted. (My personal thought is that 20 adults are hardly enough to call it a study.)

It’s thought that somehow ultra-processed foods don’t fit into “clean” eating,

in different communities, home cooks. Frommer described such an experience with an “Italian nona,” whose grandson translated as she prepared the meal in her kitchen. “We all gathered for a meal. It cost as much as a high end restaurant, but it was our most memorable meal in Italy that time.”

Travelers are increasingly concerned about sustainability and traveling responsibly, so the benefits of their visit (providing economic foundation to sustain people living in their community, maintaining culture and heritage and sites) do not outweigh the negatives of overtourism.

Tour operators, like Intrepid Travel (intrepidtravel.com) are taking this into account in designing itineraries so they are more hub-and-spoke and less travel by bus or airline; several, like G Adventures (gadventures.com) are conscious to purchase local products and hire locals, as well as contribute a portion of the tour price to benefit the community; Seacology (seacology.org), takes you to places threatened by ocean rise then donate money back to community.

“At its best, travel should challenge our preconceptions and most cherished views, cause us to rethink our assumptions, shake us a bit, make us broader minded and more understanding,” Frommer said.

Her father, Arthur Frommer, “changed this industry in powerful ways, democratized travel. He was one of the first to say average people should travel, not just the wealthy, elite. Travel afforded the opportunity to expand your life, expand your mind, and do it in a way that pushes the cause of world peace. He truly believed that when we get to know other countries, wonder at the beauty of them, we won’t attack or invade, and our hearts will break when things go wrong there.”

but in reality, it may be a flawed perception -- and one that isn’t practical. There are many days I can’t make every meal from scratch, and rely on processed foods, such as cereal for breakfast, instant brown rice with a stir-fry or frozen roasted vegetables as a side dish. A scoop of protein powder added to a smoothie can be healthy for an older adult needing to increase their protein.

The bottom line is we need a better system to classify food rather than how processed it is -- or isn’t. It’s the nutritional value of a food -- and how it’s included in a meal pattern -- that matters.

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

Celebrating Irish heritage on St. Patrick’s Day

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

“Top of the mornin’ to you!” That’s what my nephew Paul said to all of the relatives in my house as St. Patrick’s Day was drawing closer. Paul was 5 years old and he didn’t know what it meant but it sounded good. One day I asked him where he’d heard that expression and he told me that his kindergarten teacher had read the kids at school a book about St. Patrick and the holiday on March 17.

Paul and his young classmates learned that “top of the mornin’” is a typical Irish greeting. A friendly one, it’s something you might say to greet someone in a lighthearted way. It’s not really how people in Ireland speak to each other these days but it’s one of those sayings that has stuck.

They also discovered that St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and St. Brigid is the female patron saint. The color green is associated with St. Patrick because Ireland’s nickname is the “Emerald Isle” and because there is a green stripe in the Irish flag.

The shamrock is a popular Irish symbol but it isn’t the symbol of Ireland. As early as the medieval period, the harp had represented the nation. By 1534 King Henry VIII was using the harp on coins. Later, the harp was used on Irish flags and Irish coats of arms. When Ireland became an independent country in 1921, it adopted the harp as the national symbol.

St. Patrick was born in the year 387 AD in Britain. His birth name was Maewyn Succat. His father was a deacon and his grandfather was a priest, but he wasn’t very religious growing up.

When he was 16 years old Patrick was attacked and kidnapped by Irish pirates who had broken into his family’s villa. Sold into slavery in Ireland, Patrick

used the next few years to renew his religious faith.

He wrote in his Confession, “After I arrived in Ireland, I tended sheep every day, and I prayed frequently during the day.” After six years Patrick heard a voice telling him to return home. He escaped and walked 200 miles to a port where he found a ship preparing to leave for England.

“I said I needed to set sail with them, but the captain was not at all pleased. He replied unpleasantly and angrily: ‘Don’t you dare try to come with us.’” The captain changed his mind, however.

“I began to pray while I was going; and before I even finished the prayer, I heard one of them shout aloud at me: ‘Come quickly - those men are calling you!’ I turned back right away, and they began to say to me: ‘Come - we’ll trust you. Prove you’re our friend in any way you wish.’”

Eventually Patrick made it back home to Britain, became a cleric in continental Europe and then headed back to Ireland as a missionary. He preached the Gospel and he took the name “Patricius” aka “Patrick.” The name “Patrick” means “father of his people.”

Once Patrick arrived in Slane, Ireland, on March 25, 433, he worked as a missionary among the Celtic pagans mostly in the remote parts of Ireland where Christianity had never been preached.

Paul was excited about St. Patrick’s Day because when he, his parents and sister, Lucy, 7, visited my place I was in the kitchen with a large mixing bowl in front of me starting to make some Irish soda bread. I was also finalizing the menu for our holiday meal.

Corned beef brisket and cabbage plus boiled potatoes, carrots, onions, pepper corns, one bay leaf and water all in one

large pot is good and I knew that it was easy to make. My mother gave me a recipe for corned beef and cabbage and she’d gotten it from her mother years before. Cooking it on low and stirring the ingredients occasionally, I knew it would take a few hours for it to finish cooking.

Boiling it on the stovetop is the most popular way to cook corned beef but it can be baked instead. I prefer to boil it in liquid because it helps ensure this tougher cut of meat is tender. Not only is a plate of corned beef and cabbage delicious but the next day a corned beef sandwich makes a great lunch.

Pointing out the potted shamrock plant I had on the kitchen counter, Paul recognized it and said his teacher had also shown them some shamrocks. “It’s all part of St. Patrick’s Day and I’m glad the holiday is almost here,” Paul said enthusiastically.

His mother and I told Paul and Lucy that this year’s 264th New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on March 17. Irish native Michael A. Benn is the grand marshal.

Born in Limerick City in 1948, Michael Benn attended the Christian Brothers School before emigrating to the U.S. with his family in 1962. A U.S. Army veteran, Benn then worked in the

A GREENER VIEW

Don’t Treat Soil Like Dirt

construction industry, spending time in Local 30 I.U.O.E. Operating Engineers and Local 608 Carpenters Union before he retired.

Michael Benn is the longtime chairman of the Queens County St. Patrick’s Parade Committee in the Rockaways.

Ireland has plenty of folklore but it’s believed that we Americans came up with the idea that green makes you invisible to leprechauns. According to the tradition, if you are not wearing green and therefore visible to the leprechauns, a leprechaun may come along and play some tricks on you.

They’d heard that leprechauns must tell the truth but only if you look the leprechaun in the eye. Few people know that if caught and asked, the leprechaun can grant three wishes.

Paul and Lucy didn’t want any leprechauns chasing them so I distracted them by giving the kids some green hats and necklaces I had for St. Patrick’s Day and they paraded around in my house saying “Top of the mornin’” and singing “When Irish eyes are smiling.” It sure was fun having the kids around for the holiday.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to one and all!!

BY JEFF RUGG

Q: After two years of trying to grow a vegetable garden, I am almost ready to give up. You know -- three strikes and you are out. I have been doing some reading and am now more confused than ever, but it appears that the soil is the problem. The garden is in full sun, and I use a drip hose to keep it watered. There are so many things I could buy and add to the soil. What do you think?

A: You are right; there are a lot of products out there that may or may not be useful. Some are unnecessary or even harmful. A soil test may help. Talk to your local university extension office to see where

they recommend you send a sample.

In the meantime, remember, as I say in my book: Soil is not dirt. Plants need four things to grow: air, sunlight, water and soil. Dirt is unwanted debris. Soil is a combination of air, water, chemicals, minerals, living organisms and organic matter arranged in a stable structure. Soil is partly solid, partly liquid and partly air. The ideal Goldilocks “thrive range” soil depends on what you are trying to grow. An ideal soil for a cactus is different from an ideal soil for a waterlily. The cactus soil will have a very high pore space volume and low water retention. The waterlily soil will have all of the pores filled with water.

The ideal garden soil for most vegetables and many annual flowers is about 50% solid material (45% mineral and 5% organic matter), up to 1% living organisms and the rest pore space. The pores will vary in water and air content depending on rain and irrigation. How often do plants use water? The answer is pretty much all the time. Chemicals in the soil move into the plant with the water. Water evaporating off the leaves cools the plant and helps move the chemicals around in the plant. The reason we don’t have to water plants constantly is that the soil acts like a sponge. Like a damp sponge, soil holds water in the small pores and allows air circulation

in the large pores.

Most suburban and urban topsoils are too thin and too compacted. Imagine a small sponge being squeezed: It will not hold much water or air. Plants that are growing in these kinds of soils are often growing in the survive range and not the thrive range of good soil conditions. They will grow some and produce some fruit but not at the level they would if the soil were better. It is hard to give the plants the proper amount of water if the soil sponge isn’t big enough to hold water and the pores that should be filled with air are filled with water, drowning the roots.

Continued on page 5

Cutting Social Security Administration Staff Has Consequences

BY TOM MARGENAU

Before I begin today’s column, which questions some of President Donald Trump’s planned staff reductions at the Social Security Administration, let me confess that at the end of the column, I point out that I might be dead wrong! So, let’s begin.

Imagine that you owned a successful business that was gaining 10,000 new customers each day, with all the market projections saying that trend would continue for many more years. Would you be hiring new staff and opening new outlets to keep up with the demand? Or would you be cutting back on employees, reducing office hours and closing facilities?

If you were in the private sector, I guarantee you would be doing the former. But in the wacky world of government funding and operations, the latter is the norm.

Take as an example my former employer: the Social Security Administration. In each of the last 10 years, around 10,000 people a day have been retiring and signing up for Social Security benefits. That is expected to continue for another dozen years or more. In other words, SSA workloads are booming!

What has been our government leader’s response to that? Budget cutbacks and staffing cuts. During Trump’s first term, he ordered a 15% across-the-board cut in government staffing, including the SSA. And now, Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency are mandating another huge reduction in staff.

If you think that these cuts are merely reversing all the growth in government that happened during years when Democrats were in power, well, you are simply wrong. Let’s use the SSA as an example. Throughout the 2000s, no matter which political party was in power, the agency’s operating budget dropped by about 20% while workloads continued to increase dramatically.

And if you also think that the SSA, just like any other government agency, has a bloated administrative budget that could stand some trimming, well, think again. Out of every dollar collected in Social Security taxes, less than one penny goes toward running the agency that maintains earnings records for almost every worker in this country and pays monthly benefits to about 69 million Americans. I think it would be darn near impossible to find one single successful business in the private sector that works with a 1% overhead.

When I started working for the SSA in the early 1970s, I was one of about 82,000 relatively happy and proud employees working for one of the best-run agencies in all of government. The SSA consistently won awards for public service and administrative responsibility. I liked the phrase one of my co-workers always used: “The SSA is an honorable institution engaged in a noble public purpose.”

Local Social Security offices were well-

run, clean and efficient. I worked in several of those offices in small towns and medium-sized cities across the country. They were pleasant places to work and pleasant places to visit. I enjoyed the time I had to sit down with the people who came in who were filing for any of the various kinds of Social Security benefits. I was able to take the time to not only explain all the (often complicated) Social Security rules that applied to them but also to simply chat and ask them how their day was going. I always kept in the back of my mind that even though this was just an everyday job for me, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the customer. I tried -- and maybe more importantly, I was given the opportunity -- to make sure it was as pleasant as possible.

Unfortunately, now it’s a different world and a different SSA. Those 82,000 employees I worked with in the ‘70s and ‘80s have been trimmed down to about 60,000. The Trump/Musk cuts are planned to reduce SSA staffing to 50,000. Of course, the catchphrase for staff reductions is “work smarter, not harder.” Well, catchphrases can only go so far.

With reduced staff and resources, it’s all about numbers, efficiency and time management. Walking in off the street to visit a pleasant local Social Security office to maybe ask some Social Security questions and possibly file for benefits while having a little chat with a happy employee has become a pipe dream. Now you must call the SSA’s toll-free number and wait on hold for a long time (some readers have told me for two hours or more) to make an appointment. Then, you will probably wait weeks or even a month or more for that appointment. And sadly, the SSA rep you finally get to talk to has neither the training nor the time that I had and probably does not have the esprit de corps that I had either.

(Let me quickly note here that you, as a potential SSA customer, can “work smarter, not harder” by using the agency’s website to conduct much of your Social Security business.)

Other SSA workloads are also suffering. For example, the disability story is a pretty bleak tale. It takes the SSA six to eight months to process a claim for disability benefits. About 65% of those first-time claims are denied, meaning hundreds of thousands of people appeal their claims to a Social Security judge. The average wait time for that hearing is about 15 months. Those numbers keep getting worse as the SSA’s budget and workforce are continually reduced.

Having said all that, let me now reverse course. Maybe I’m wrong! Maybe these are just the musings of an old codger (I’m 75) pining for the “good old days” that just aren’t anymore. Maybe Trump and Musk are not out to do permanent damage to the SSA. Maybe, as a recent agency press release pointed out, they are merely shifting resources from administrative

positions to field office positions. Maybe a leaner and more targeted workforce is the way to go. Who knows -- maybe artificial intelligence bots will do a better job of consoling an old woman who just lost her husband of 50 years while helping her file for widow’s benefits than I ever did.

I guess we’ll just have to wait and see. But gosh, I sure do miss those good old days!

If you have a Social Security question,

Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon. com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Vastu Shastra and its influence and impact on Indian purchasers

Indian purchasers and investors, who are laser focused on their customary practices and principles, will rely heavily on Vastu Shastra for their decision making. This ancient practice is the counterpart of Feng Shui. It is an ancient Hindu architectural science basing the direction of the home and position and arrangement and placement of the rooms and make sure that is a positive energy flow. Indian purchasers will emphasize and highlight the exact direction the home faces. Those that face north, east and northeast are most favorable in the search for that most desirable home. Principles of Vastu take into account the sun’s rays, earth movement and geomagnetic forces, with fire, water, earth and sky as important elements. Design and construction of buildings are based on Vastu so that harmony is created where people who live and work.

Consultations are considered with an astrologer to pick an optimum propitious purchase and closing and movein dates and times based on zodiac signs is a typical practice. This is accomplished with the family involved in every step of the decision making process due to the collectivist nature of Indian culture. The extended family e.g., parents, siblings and sometimes even in-laws plays a major role when homes are visited to come to a final decision when buying.

Many Indian purchasers search out homes that will have a dedicated room to perform their religious ceremony. Once their closing takes place they will bless the space and eliminate any negative vibes. This will enable the family to practice their rituals knowing that the space has a positive karma environment. The “puja room” becomes

Continued from page 3

Just about every type of soil can be improved with just one product: organic matter. As mentioned above, it doesn’t take much organic matter to make a difference. Sandy soils that drain too fast because they have too many large pores are

an extremely significant and consequential room designed in their home for their special services being performed.

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

A multitude of homes in India are constructed in the configuration of a rectangle or square with an open courtyard in the middle, that is open to the sky. Kitchens face southeast with the viewpoint and conviction that the gods rule in the east. Winds come from the northeast, so doors and windows should be structured accordingly. A pie-shaped lot with the front yard at the tip and the backyard at the larger portion of the lot would be attractive to an Indian buyer because the lot is likened to the shape of a cow, with the tip as its head. The cow is sacred to Indians.

Most Indian buyers have it all figured out in advance and know what they are searching for in a home. They have already done their homework, the neighborhood and the school they want their children to attend. They can also be very aggressive in their negotiations, and when their offer is accepted, they may think they have overpaid and want to counter or want something more in return. This may appear to be a bit of an over reach, but one must learn about those idiosyncrasies and be able to handle their concerns with “kid gloves” to get to the final closing. it’s just their normal nature to negotiate, like everyone seems to do in today’s’ market. They feel better if they get something more in return. Sometimes paying for the cleaning or extra work that needs to be done can often appease the buyer.

The following is what matters most

to Home Buyers in India:-

• Location of the Property

• Price of the Property

• Negotiation or Discount at the time of buying

• Rate of interest of Home loans

• Semi furnished or Raw House

• No seepage in the House

• Presentation of the Property

• Builder Reputation and delivered projects track record

• Most Important Property Dealer or Broker involved in the deal.

Be patient with Indian buyers because, sometimes it may be challenging to connect with them in the beginning. They may not always return phone calls in an expeditious manner; but being patient will be to your benefit. Sometimes one will need to follow up with them multiple times. Some Indians feel they are important to their job or position in business, so they will not always interrupt their work day by returning an agent’s phone call. Remember, patience is a virtue and practicing this and by providing the required effort, being disciplined, a “never give up attitude.” Providing the necessary time to build rapport leading to a strong relationships, a solid bond and a long lasting connection that will be created, benefiting you with future referrals, lucrative earnings, success and a great sense of satisfaction, P.S. Last week, I was remiss in not wishing all our clients an enjoyable, healthy, happy Ramadan

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace

Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations: (What I consider a Master’s degree in real estate) expert in consulting and completing international transactions, eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, solar panels, Geo-thermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

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

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

helped because the organic matter adds a lot of spongelike small pores and nutrients that are lacking. Compacted soils benefit from being loosened up with the compost. Soils lacking in nutrients benefit as the compost breaks down into nutrients plants can use. High pH soils benefit as the compost is most often acidic. Compost and organic matter come

in several different kinds of bags and in bulk. When I am trying to improve soil, I like using several different kinds and mixing them all together to get the biggest benefits from each one. Cover the existing soil with at least 2 inches of compost and mix it into the top 6-8 inches of soil. In the long run, don’t rototill the soil, as that hurts more than it helps.

For a lot more information on garden soil, check out the videos in “Chapter 2 Plants and the Environment” on the Greener View YouTube channel. Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com. T.

BY MARY HUNT

Little things mean a lot -- like the two words “batteries included.” Just knowing they’re in there somewhere means less hassle and one less thing to buy. But face it. The initial powering-up of a battery-operated device is a minor concern. It’s the cost of keeping it going for years to come that should be considered.

The commercials are compelling, but can they be trusted? Does a copper top really make a difference? Is Energizer the heavy artillery of battery power? Is heavy-duty superior to alkaline? Are elcheapo, generic batteries evidence that you get what you pay for? Is heavy-duty superior to alkaline?

ALKALINE VERSUS HEAVY-DUTY

Consumers Union, which publishes Consumer Reports Magazine, concluded hat when it comes to single-use batteries, the alkaline and lithium varieties are by far the best performers. Even the most expensive heavy-duty battery cannot compete with the cheapest alkaline or lithium.

So, the conclusion is clear: Buy alka-

The Inside Buzz on Batteries

line, which is cheaper than lithium, and buy according to price, not by brand. Go for the store or generic brands, and when you find them on sale, stock up.

Retailers such as Costco, Target and Walmart don’t own their own battery factories. They contract with the biggies such as Rayovac, Eveready and Duracell. Private-label batteries are typically the exact same product as the national brands; only the label and the price are different.

EXPIRATION DATES

Alkaline batteries have a life of about five years. However, they lose power slightly when not in use. That is why you should always look for the latest “best if used by” date code.

STORING BATTERIES

It’s not exactly a myth that storing batteries in the refrigerator will preserve their energy, but it’s close. Tests indicate chilled batteries have only a slight, if any, increase in life expectancy over batteries stored at room temperature -- no more than 10%.

RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES

Even the best rechargeable NiCad bat-

teries do not perform as long on a single charge as the same number of single-use alkaline. However, for power-hungry items such as CD players, games and other items that get lots of use, rechargeables make a lot of sense because they can be recharged hundreds of times.

Rechargeable NiCads are not recommended for low-drain devices or passive applications such as smoke detectors and alarm clocks.

Rechargeable alkaline batteries, which are less expensive than NiCads, lose significant capacity with each recharge and have a life expectancy of only about 25 recharges.

Safety tip: Experts say we should install fresh batteries in smoke detectors and security systems every six months. But don’t throw the old batteries out. They likely have lots of life remaining, especially if they are alkaline, and will work well in your remote control, pager, toys and flashlights.

DISPOSAL

All batteries should be recycled to keep them out of the landfills. Home Depot stores have collection bins. Or check with

your county government about other collection facilities in your area.

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

27 Grocery Shopping Tricks to Keep More Cash in Your Pocket

BY MARY HUNT

Next to your rent or mortgage payment, food is probably your biggest expense. Don’t believe me? For the next 30 days, track every nickel you spend to feed your face, then tell me it doesn’t add up to one boatload of cash-ola.

Every dollar you don’t spend on food is a dollar you get to keep for something else -- like knocking down that student loan or padding your savings account. That dollar has already been taxed, and you don’t have to wait for it to appear in some future paycheck. It’s yours, right here, right now.

So how do you keep more of those dollars in your pocket? Here’s a snappy collection of grocery-shopping tricks that may not be new but have surely been forgotten by most of us.

1. DON’T SHOP HUNGRY

One study found that hungry shoppers spend up to 60% more -- and not just on food. You’d be better off grabbing a donut from the bakery section to curb your hunger before you shop. Just don’t forget to pay for it!

2. SHOP WITH A LIST

Stick to it as much as humanly possible, but be flexible enough to swap items if a better deal pops up.

3. PLAN YOUR LIST BASED ON SALES

Check your store’s weekly ad (flyer or website) and build your meal plan around what’s on sale.

4. GO FOR THE LOSS LEADERS

These are the deeply discounted items designed to lure you into the store. When they’re that cheap, stock up!

5. TIME YOUR TRIP WISELY

Avoid shopping at the beginning of the month and right before holidays. Stores tend to raise prices when they know the crowds -- especially seniors and other who get monthly checks -- are coming.

6. KNOW YOUR PRICES

Keep a written record of the regular price per unit for items you buy most often. That way, you’ll know whether a sale is actually a bargain or just clever marketing.

7. BUY IN SEASON

Fruits and veggies are at their best quality -- and lowest price -- when they’re in season.

8. SHOP WITH CASH

Bring only what you’ve budgeted for this trip. If you stumble across a fabulous bargain and don’t have enough, you can always go back. Shopping with cash keeps you from overspending -- studies show that when you use plastic, you spend 30% more. That’s a financial leak worth plugging!

9. TRACK YOUR SPENDING AS YOU SHOP

Use your phone or a pocket calculator to keep a running total of what’s in your cart. No surprises at checkout!

10. STICK TO TWO OR THREE STORES

Rotating between your cheapest local stores lets you grab different loss leaders and real bargains.

11. SHOP AT LARGER STORES

Bigger stores often have lower prices thanks to volume discounts.

12. FIND A BAKERY OUTLET

These discount stores can have amazing deals -- if you have the willpower to

resist impulse buys.

13. CHECK OUT SALVAGE STORES

Dented cans and mislabels can mean major savings. Just inspect items carefully.

14. BUY IN BULK (BUT NOT TOO MUCH)

If you can’t use it before it goes bad, it’s not a bargain.

15. DON’T OVERFILL YOUR STORAGE

A year’s worth of toilet paper is great -- if you have the space for it.

16. DO THE MATH ON COUPONS

A sale price without a coupon is often cheaper than the regular price with one.

17. BE SELECTIVE WITH COUPONS AND SALES

Only buy it if you actually need it, not just because it’s on sale.

18. ALWAYS CHECK EXPIRATION DATES

Grab the freshest option whenever possible.

19. CONSIDER STORE BRANDS

Most of the time, they’re identical to the name brands -- just with a lower price tag.

20. SHOP SOLO

Distractions (kids, spouses, friends) can cost you.

21. MAKE FRIENDS IN THE STORE

Your regular presence could mean early markdowns from the produce, bakery or meat department.

22. LOOK HIGH AND LOW

Expensive brands are placed at eye level on purpose. Check the top and bottom shelves for better deals.

23. SKIP NONFOOD ITEMS AT THE GROCERY STORE

Cleaning supplies, paper goods and greeting cards are usually cheaper elsewhere.

24. AVOID INDIVIDUAL-SIZE PACKAGES

Buy the bigger size and divide portions at home.

25. AVOID CONVENIENCE FOODS

Pre-cut fruit, shredded cheese and premixed seasoning blends cost way more than their whole counterparts.

26. WAIT FOR SALES

A national brand on sale is usually cheaper than a store brand at regular price.

27. LEARN YOUR STORE’S SALE CYCLES

Most grocery stores operate on a 12week sale cycle. If you notice a pattern, buy enough during the sale to last until the next one.

FINAL THOUGHT

Stick to these tips, eat out less, and I promise you’ll see big savings in no time. Your grocery bill might just shrink faster than a cheap T-shirt in hot water!

The Remarkable Journey of Mars

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of March 16-22, 2025

You may recall marveling at the Red Planet Mars when I wrote about it in December. It reached its closest to Earth in mid-January when it lay only 60 million miles from us and shone as a bright orange “star” in the night sky.

If you’ve been paying attention to this planet over the past few months, you will have noticed that it has become noticeably fainter. And if you’ve been watching it with a small telescope, you have certainly noticed that the planet now appears 30% smaller. These differences have occurred because Mars and Earth have separated considerably as they’ve orbited the sun. Today Mars is nearly twice as far from Earth as it was in January, and about three times fainter.

The one similarity to its appearance back then is that it still appears in the direction of the stars of Gemini, the twins, and now forms a fairly tight triangle with “twin stars” Castor and Pollux high overhead after dark. Keep an eye on Mars over the next few weeks and you’ll notice how it appears to drift eastward among these stars, the result of its orbital motion and that of the Earth.

To get an even better idea of how Mars moves among the stars, you can sketch its position, or even take a photograph of the area, from week to week.

Simply fix your gaze (or that of your camera) on the “twin stars” of Gemini, and you’ll be able to record the movement of Mars very clearly over time.

By mid-April, the Red Planet will have left the stars of Gemini and will enter the constellation of Cancer, and will appear nearly three times fainter and, with a telescope, some 27% smaller than it does this week.

Keep watch longer and you’ll see that by May, Mars will pass quite close to the Beehive star cluster at the center of the constellation Cancer. You can spot this cluster as a faint smudge of light on any clear, dark springtime night if you’re far from city lights and have no moonlight. But on the evening of May 4, Mars will appear just to the north of the Beehive, and this should be a great time to view both with a small, low-powered telescope. Even with bright moonlight that week, a telescope will reveal the stars of the cluster.

The show doesn’t just occur on that night, however. As Mars orbits the sun, we can see its movement against the more distant stars if we’re patient. On the evenings of May 3, 4 and 5, it will appear to drift by the cluster. Even through binoculars, Mars’ tiny orange disk will produce a lovely sight against the dozens of shimmering stars that form the Beehive.

This of course is an optical illusion caused by the two appearing along the same line of sight. In reality, the Beehive is 577 lightyears (about 3,394 trillion miles) away, while Mars will then be some 26 million times closer (“only” about 137 million miles from us).

LOST IN SUBURBIA

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Back in my early days of suburbia, I received one or two catalogs in the mail, and that was about it. However, catalogs, I soon learned, are like rabbits: They tend to multiply if left unattended. At first I looked forward to the occasional Pottery Barn and WilliamsSonoma catalogs. Not that I was buying, because we were young and house poor. But like a man with a girly magazine, I liked to look at the pictures and dream about what I didn’t have at home. Soon enough, though, more catalogs started pouring in. Initially it was just home decor-themed catalogs, which made sense since I had a home. But then I started getting catalogs for obscure things I had absolutely no possible interest in, such as hunting gear, Amish clothing and pet diapers for elderly, incontinent dogs. Somehow I had gotten

Mars becomes noticeably fainter as it orbits away from the Earth.

Attention All Catalog Shoppers

on the mailing list for everything from surgical scrubs to Harley-Davidson clothes, which would be great if I was a doctor who rode a cool hog, rather than a stay-at-home mom who drives a lame-o SUV. Sure, the catalogs were pretty and colorful and inviting, and made me almost want to call right in and order a plain and simple Amish lady’s bonnet. But the catalogs had started crowding out my regular mail and soon reached such a volume that the mailman simply left them stacked next to the post. I was afraid the neighbors were going to think I had some kind of catalog addiction, do an intervention and enroll me in a mail-order 12-step program. The day I received a catalog for the Avocado of the Month Club, I decided the time had come to cut off the catalogs cold turkey. I had no choice. I don’t even really like guacamole.

Now, I knew I got a lot of catalogs, but since they never came all at once, I really had no idea how many there were. For a month I collected all my catalogs and piled them up in a heap in my kitchen. By the time I reached 50, I figured I could either wallpaper my family room with them or take some action. Getting catalogs, it seemed, was easy. Stopping getting catalogs ... not so much. From my monster pile o’ catalogs, I went through each one and wrote down their mailing address. Then I typed a lovely, gracious cease-anddesist-or-I-will-sue-you-and-the-Amishbuggy-you-rode-in-on letter. I printed out 50 copies, cut out my mailing label on each catalog, stuck it to the letter, then mailed them all out.

Warily, I watched the mail get delivered each day. As the mailman staggered under the weight of my catalogs, I

began to wonder if my letters had ended up in some catalog slush pile. I thought it pretty ironic that in trying to end the junk mail, I may have ended up becoming junk mail myself.

Then, slowly but surely, I noticed a definite decrease in the number of catalogs I was receiving. Day by day, the pile got smaller and smaller, until one afternoon, I opened up the mailbox and found only bills. Smiling with smug satisfaction, I went in the house and logged onto my email. I had 30 incoming messages.

They were all online catalogs.

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

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NOVENAS/PRAYERS

NOVENA TO THE BLESSED MOTHER

Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven. Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

Oh Star of the Sea, help me herein and show me here you are my Mother.

Oh Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power.

Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (say three times).

Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (say three times).

Amen.

This prayer is never known to fail and is to be said for 3 consecutive days.

In Gratitude (E.H.)

We’re looking for writers in our community to compose articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even pieces of fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section. Love to write?

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info.

• Articles must be between 1,500 – 3,000 words.

• Each writer will be

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Warm up with Irish stew this St. Patrick’s Day

Irish Guinness Stew with Lamb

Makes 6 servings

St. Patrick’s Day is known for revelry. A festive atmosphere prevails each March 17, and people from all walks of life and genealogical backgrounds take part in festivities that have become celebrations of Irish culture.

8 cups lamb or beef stock; divided

1 cup pearl barley

3 lb. lamb shoulder, cubed

Salt, to taste

Cuisine is a big part of Irish culture, even if it’s not the first thing people think of when pondering the Emerald Isle. This St. Patrick’s Day, cel-

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

3 tablespoons oil

1⁄2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

4 stalks of celery, washed, trimmed and chopped

2 large yellow onions, peeled and chopped

1) In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, bring 3 cups of stock to a boil; add barley. Reduce heat to low and gently simmer for 20 minutes. Set aside.

2) Meanwhile, pat the meat dry with paper towels. Season the meat with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a 6-quart Dutch oven. Brown the meat on all sides over medium-high heat. Using a slotted spoon, remove the meat from the pot. Sprinkle flour over the meat, shaking off any excess; set aside.

3) Add the celery, onions, gar-

ebrants can bring a touch of Irish cuisine to their celebrations by preparing the following recipe for “Irish Guinness Stew with Lamb” courtesy of Lines+Angles.

3 cloves of garlic, minced

3 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped

12 fluid ounces Guinness stout

1 bunch fresh parsley

1 bunch fresh thyme

1 bunch fresh rosemary

3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

2 teaspoons cornstarch

4 teaspoons water

lic and carrots to the pot and saute until onions are soft and translucent. Add Guinness and deglaze the pot, scraping up all the caramelized bits on the bottom and sides of the pan.

4) Chop the leaves of the parsley, reserving the stems. Tie the parsley stems and several sprigs of thyme and rosemary into a bundle; drop the bundle into the pot. Chop the remaining thyme and rosemary; set chopped herbs aside.

5) Return the meat to the pot. Add the potatoes, barley and enough stock to cover the meat

and vegetables. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to very low and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until meat is fork tender. Stir occasionally, adding remaining stock as necessary.

6) Check seasoning; adjust to taste. Stir in chopped parsley, thyme and rosemary. Mix cornstarch in water and stir. Add to stew, stirring to incorporate. Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes or until stew thickens. Ladle into bowls. Serve with crusty bread and of course more Guinness if desired.

Last Hope Part of the Chewy.com Rescue Program

If you haven’t tried Chewy.com yet for your pet food and supply purchases, this is a great time to check them out. Last Hope is part of their rescue program. For each new customer that makes a purchase, Last Hope will receive a $20 donation. Go to Last Hope’s Chewy page at https://www.chewy. com/g/last-hope-animal-rescue_b100553681 for info on Last Hope and to shop for items and necessities on the shelter’s wish list.

Volunteers wanted for Dune Grass Planting Day

Love the beach? Help protect it! The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to take part in the Town’s annual Dune Day on Saturday, March 29, at 10 a.m. at TOBAY Beach.

This hands-on environmental initiative helps stabilize beach dunes by planting dune grass, which serves as a natural shield against storm surges and erosion. Strong dunes mean a stronger coastline, protecting TOBAY Beach for generations to come.

“Our Dune Stabilization Project brings together volunteers of all ages in a meaningful effort to protect and preserve our beautiful shoreline,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “It’s a great opportunity for students, Scouts, and nature lovers to make a real difference while enjoying the outdoors.”

Dune Day is a fun and rewarding experience for families, school

groups, and environmentally conscious residents. Volunteers will work alongside Town officials and crews, learning firsthand how simple actions can have a lasting impact on coastal preservation.

Councilwoman Vicki Walsh added, “This is a fantastic way for the community to come together and make a lasting impact on the environment. The planting of dune grass not only helps protect our beach, but it also builds awareness of the importance of coastal conservation.”

No early registration is required — just show up and dig in! To register in advance, visit www.oysterbaytown.com/volunteer. For more information, contact the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 6775943 or email environmental@oysterbay-ny.gov.

Artists invited to showcase work at “Art in the Park”

Artists and artisans must be 18

Organized by the Town's Department of Community & Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts Division, Art in the Park celebrates a diverse range of handcrafted works, including ceramics, watercolors, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, sculptures, and more.

To apply, visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/capa or contact the Cultural and Performing Arts Division at (516) 797-7932 for more information.

Kindergarteners mark 100 days with parade

The hallways of Charles Campagne School were filled with pride on Feb. 14 as kindergarteners joyfully celebrated their 100th day of school.

The hallways of Charles Campagne School were filled with pride on Feb. 14 as kindergarteners joyfully celebrated their 100th day of school. The young students paraded through the building, greeted by cheers and applause from older students and teachers who lined the hallways to mark the special occasion.

Each kindergartener carried a creative poster showcasing their milestone, decorated with 100 items of their choice.

Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

From beads and straws to pom-poms and hearts, their artwork reflected both creativity and enthusiasm. Adding to the celebration, all the students wore crowns proudly proclaiming their achievement.

Reaching the 100th day of school is an exciting milestone, and the parade was a wonderful way to celebrate the growth and accomplishments of CCS’s youngest learners.

The week leading up to this year’s Super Bowl LIX, students at Lee Avenue Elementary School in Hicksville held a “Soup-er” Bowl can drive to support the local food pantry.

Lee Avenue hosts “Soup-er” Bowl Town, county to offer free health info cards

The Town of Oyster Bay and Nassau County have partnered to offer free health information card through the Nassau County Department of Health. This ID card serves as an important tool in the event of an emergency as it allows first responders to quickly identify health and contact information. Photos and cards will be processed on-site during special events, and residents will take their ID card home from the event.

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “I’m proud to join with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman to offer this potentially lifesaving program to our residents. These health ID cards can provide first responders with vital information if one becomes unconscious or incapacitated, making it easier to receive expedited and informed care in the case of a medical emergency.”

School District

Residents will be able to obtain an ID card on the following dates:

• Tuesday, March 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Syosset Public Library- 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset, NY 11791

• Tuesday, April 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Bayville Free Library- 34 School Street Unit B, Bayville, NY 11709

• Tuesday, April 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Oyster BayEast Norwich Library- 89 E. Main Street, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

The Health Information Card will include pertinent information such as allergies, medical conditions, and medications, as well as a photo and an emergency contact. For more information, please contact the Nassau County Department of Health at (516) 227-9697.

Photo courtesy of Hicksville

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Kramer Lane third graders learn importance of heart health

On Feb. 12, third-grade students at Kramer Lane Elementary School participated in an engaging and educational program about heart health, led by representatives from Northwell. The event, held in the school's library, featured interactive stations designed to teach students how to keep their hearts strong and healthy.

As part of the program, students rotated through four hands-on learning stations. At one station, they discovered how proper nutrition supports heart health, while another station provided a demonstration on how the heart pumps blood throughout the body. A third station focused on the benefits of cardiovascular exercise, and at the final station, stu -

dents learned how to listen to their own pulse.

To enhance their experience, each student received a stethoscope to use during the lesson, along with a Northwell bag, a chef’s hat and a healthy fruit cup to enjoy as a snack. The program not only reinforced essential health concepts but also made learning fun and memorable for the young students.

This special event was held in recognition of February’s designation as Heart Health Month, emphasizing the importance of developing healthy habits early in life. Through handson activities and expert guidance, Kramer Lane’s third graders gained valuable knowledge about keeping their hearts strong for years to come.

As part of the program, students learned how to listen to their pulse.

the students were gifted a stethoscope by the

Students listened to their hearts with their stethoscopes before and after cardiovascular exercise and noted the change in their heart rates.

At one station, students discovered how proper nutrition supports heart health.

All

Northwell representatives.

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Barbara Bucovetsky Sells Homes!

There Must Be A Reason...

NOBODY SAYS IT BETTER THAN MY CLIENTS:

Barbara Bucovetsky

Licensed Associate RE Broker

barbara.bucovetsky@compass.com O: 516.517.4866 | M: 516.428.2016

“Dear Barbara – Thank you is really not enough! Thank you for your incredible support during this crazy time. Your expertise matched only by your ability to know what I needed and when were more appreciated than you can imagine! You are a very special person and I’m thankful that I can now call you my friend.”

— Marcy T.

“I have engaged Barbara to sell my properties on two occasions. Each time, I was involved in a stressful transition in my life. She was very sensitive to this and guided me in a calm and obliging manner. She was always available if I had any concerns and offered easy solutions. Barbara’s upbeat attitude made the whole process pleasant and easy.”

— Sybil S.

“When I first met Barbara I knew she was the person to help sell our house. She was forthright and super knowledgeable about the housing market, assisting us in every step of the process which eased our stress. She calmed a challenging situation. We are grateful for Barbara’s expertise and commitment.”

— Joan & Randy R.

“You were there every step of the way for us – days, evenings, weekends and holidays – above and beyond the call of duty. We will be forever grateful.” — Jim and Penny D.