Mid-Island Times (2/23/24)

25th Annual Winterfest Two women killed in apartment fire

On February 10, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads showed his Levittown community spirit at the Levittown Community Council’s 25th Annual Winterfest Celebration at the Island Trees Library. Despite being held during some of the most frigid months of the year, the Annual Winterfest is a heartwarming display of commu-

nity pride that gets people out of the house and brings together families and friends for a day of fun and celebration.

With an incredible model train display, crafts, face paint, a magic show, countless vendors, and more it was truly a memorable Winterfest. Aside from the entertainment, Winterfest also holds a deeper significance

for the community. It is a time to come together and appreciate the deep sense of unity and camaraderie that exists in Levittown. Senator Rhoads would like to thank Levittown Community Council and all the local volunteers for organizing such a wonderful event for the community to enjoy.

Two residents of a senior living apartment complex were killed during a fire on Sunday, February 18.

According to Nassau County Police, fire broke out in the Plainview building at 5 a.m. Upon arrival at the scene at 107 Central Park Road, officers observed smoke and flames coming from the second floor roof.

Residents were evacuated from the building, and members of nine local fire departments responded.

Resident Theresa Casale, 84, was pronounced dead at the scene. 74 year-old Lynne Citron was transported to a local hospital where she passed away. Several other residents were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Several victims were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene, and two were transported to the hospital.

The cause of the fire has not been determined at this time.

Arrest for grand larcenies

Nassau County Police arrested a Hicksville man for allegedly making unauthorized transactions while working at an AT&T store in Franklin Square.

According to police, another employee of the store told police that a former employee, Usman Ghafoor, 34, made unauthorized transactions on several AT&T business accounts totaling $158,354 on various dates. Police say that Ghafoor used various existing business credit card accounts to reimburse other account holders without permission.

Usman Ghafoor was charged with Grand Larceny 2nd Degree and Grand Larceny 3rd Degree.  Detectives request if anyone believes they may have been a victim of the above defendant, to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS or call 911. All

Senator Steve Rhoads, Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, and Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti met with veterans, local community groups, and residents at the Winterfest Celebration.

Usman Ghafoor

Environmental poster contest for fourth graders

To raise awareness on the impact of trees in our communities, the Town of Oyster Bay has announced the return of the Town’s Environmental Poster Contest, open to all fourth grade students in the Town of Oyster Bay. This year’s poster contest, Our Town Our Environment, invites youngsters to create a poster showcasing the importance of trees in preserving our environment, with a theme of ‘Trees for Tomorrow.’

“This poster contest presents a great opportunity to bring environmental awareness to our young people, making them more knowledgeable on the importance of protecting Mother Nature and safeguarding our natural resources,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.

Students should submit a poster to communicate awareness of the essential role of trees in our lives and may consider these key facts in their design:

• Oxygen Production: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, ensuring clean air. Did you know? 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.

• Air and Water Purification: Trees cleanse the air and water, promoting a healthier environment.

• Shade and Cooling: Trees provide shade, cooling our neighborhoods naturally.

• Wildlife Habitat: Trees offer food and homes for various wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.

• Health Benefits: Trees encourage outdoor activities, promoting physical well-being.

Submissions should be made on poster paper (no larger than 12”x18”). No edible items should be used on the post-

er. The top three winning posters to be displayed at a Town facility and showcased in a future Town of Oyster Bay Environmental Newsletter.

“This contest is being co-sponsored by Friends of the Bay and The Waterfront Center, two organizations we proudly partner with throughout the year to help our efforts in protecting and preserving the environment,” said Councilwoman Michele Johnson. “I hope all fourth-grade students join us in this year’s program and take advantage of the great opportunity to become more knowledgeable on the importance of protecting our environment.”

Prizes will be awarded for the top three submissions, with 1st Place receiving a private tour of Oyster Bay Harbor aboard a Friends of the Bay vessel, a $200 gift certificate for the Waterfront Center in Oyster Bay, a tree planted at the winning student’s school for Arbor Day, a nautical trivia game and Friends of the Bay apparel. Second and third place winners will also receive a gift certificate to The Waterfront Center and have a tree planted in their school district. Submission deadline for the contest is Friday, March 29, with winners to be announced on Earth Day, April 22.

Along with their poster submission, students must include an entry form, which is available at www.oysterbaytown.com/postercontest. Mail or email posters to the Town’s Department of Environmental Resources, Attn: Poster Contest, 29 Spring Street, Oyster Bay NY, 11771. Entries can also be emailed to environmental@oysterbay-ny.gov with the subject line “2024 Poster Contest.” Visit www.oysterbaytown.com/postercontest for more details.

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Scholarships available for high school seniors

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads announced that the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is accepting applications for four $3,000 scholarships, two academic and two athletic.

Scholarships are available to residents of the 5th Senate District who are current college students or high school seniors entering college. Students can access and complete the application by visiting: https://www.nyiacsl.org/ apply-for-scholarship-form.

The application deadline is Friday, March 15.

“This is an excellent scholarship opportunity for high school seniors and college students in the 5th Senate District who have worked hard, distinguished themselves from their peers and intend to pursue higher education,”

said Senator Rhoads. “With college costs continually rising, this is a chance to lessen the financial burden that is a concern for so many young people and their families. I encourage eligible students in my district to apply.”

Applicants should have a grade point average of 85 or higher; be active in community service and extracurricular activities and demonstrate financial need. In addition to these qualifications, students applying for an athletic scholarship must also be involved in an organized sport(s).

Applicants need not be of Italian American heritage to apply.

Scholarship recipients will be announced in April, and the winners will be honored at a ceremony in Albany.

Do you have grandchildren?

Enter our “World’s Most Beautiful Grandchildren” contest! Just send in your grandchildren’s photos and a brief description of the child (or children) along with your name and address to editor@gcnews.com

Tax Forum at Levittown Library

Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll greeted Irene Saint Martin of Levittown and Valeri Pazmino of Bellmore during a Town of Hempstead Taxpayer Forum on February 7 at the Levittown Public Library. Receiver of Taxes Driscoll explained how residents can lower their property tax bills by applying for tax exemption programs, and also provided an overview of new payment features, paperless billing, payment reminders, tax discounts and more.

Blood drive planned for Syosset Fire Department

In commemoration of February as American Heart Month, Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D –Plainview) invites residents to “give from the heart” and donate blood at the Syosset Fire Department, 50 Cold Spring Road, Syosset,  from 1 – 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 26. Each donor will receive a $10 E-Gift Card as a thank-you for rolling up their sleeves and helping to save lives.

“Earlier this month, the American Red Cross declared an emergency blood shortage and said that the number of blood donors has fallen to a 20-year low. Through this upcoming blood drive, we have an opportunity to ensure that anybody who faces a medical emergency can receive the care that they need to survive and thrive,” Legislator Drucker said. “Whether you are a routine donor, one who hasn’t given in a while or even

a first-time donor, we welcome you to join us at the Syosset Fire Department on February 26 to roll up your sleeves and give the gift of life!”

Eligible donors must have an ID with a signature or a photo, weigh at least 110 pounds, have had no tattoos in the last 12 months and be ages 16-75 years of age (16-year-old donors must have parental consent. Donors over age 76 must bring a doctor’s note.) O-negative and B-negative donors are especially needed in addition to all other blood types.

Visit https://donate.nybc.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/320261 to make an appointment, or call Sharon at 516-790-1644. Appointments are preferred but not required; walk-ins will be taken as capacity permits.

For more information, contact Legislator Drucker’s office at 516-5716216 or adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov

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Guest conductor electrif ies POB music students

Mark Wood, the original string master of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, brought an electrifying vibe to Plainview-Old Bethpage Schools. Wood's Electrify Your Symphony residency ignited a passion for positivity, community and connection through orchestral music. Students in grades

7–12 immersed themselves in thrilling assemblies and rehearsals, uniting with Wood's touring band for an unforgettable live rock performance. The collaboration created a musical experience that celebrated POB’s theme “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts.”

SHS students honored for volunteer work

In celebration of Presidents’ Day, the Long Island Volunteer Center (LIVC) hosted a President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) ceremony at the Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island in Garden City on February 18, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.  Fifteen students, ages 9 to 21, received Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards for their volunteer efforts that totaled 2,127 hours at 25 nonprofit and community-based organizations.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award is the most prestigious volunteer award associated with the White House.  The students earned their awards because they donated the required number of hours to meet the award levels that included young adults, teens, and kids.  Each received a pin, a medallion, an engraved certificate and a congratulatory letter from U.S. President Joseph Biden.  Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and New York State Senator Kevin Thomas also provided certificates of recognition for the students.

Three of the award winners were from Syosset High School and all three received Gold awards in the Teen Category:  Irene Chen, Olivia Chen, and Salena Chu.  Irene and Olivia, who are sisters, volunteered at the Queens Public Library helping with Summer Reading Assistant and summer meals.  Both sisters have also volunteered at Island Harvest and helped with food distributions in the community, sorting

and packing food in the warehouse, gardening at the Healthy Harvest Farm and lent support to Island Harvest staff and programs across Long Island.  Salena Chu, who was unable to attend the ceremony, volunteered at Island Harvest and at APEC (Alley Pond Environmental Center) a nonprofit environmental education organization located in Queens. Selena assisted the education department with program preparation and the maintenance department with animal care including exercising and socializing their ambassador animals. Salena also helped with the Special Olympics LI Summer Games at Howitt HS, and volunteered with the Town of Hempstead Winter Holiday Celebration Event and on preparation for the Asian American Spring Festival Celebration.

The Mineola Boy Scouts Pack 246 performed color guard duties to kick off the event.  Diana O’Neill, LIVC executive director, in her welcome address said “Leading by example, these students used their time and talents to help build community, advance the human condition, and expand the reach and impact of the nonprofits and community organizations they served.”  As certifying officer for PVSA, LIVC Board Chair Patricia Force, presented the awards.  Donna Buccelatto, volunteer manager at the Hempstead-based Mary Brennan INN, gave closing remarks.

Plainview - Old Bethpage music students were engaged and motivated during Mark Wood’s Electrify Your Symphony residency from Jan. 31–Feb. 3.

Photo courtesy of Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District

Long Island Volunteer Center board chair and award certifying officer Patricia Force presents gold awards to Syosset High School students Irene Chen and Olivia Chen.

SHS sophomore publishes book on research

15-year-old Grace Chenxin Liu, a sophomore at Syosset High School, recently was featured on CBS News and interviewed by Cindy Hsu, an Emmy Award-winning news reporter, about Grace's book Research To Empower: A Vibrant Guidebook for Young Students. With prevalent misinformation and artificial intelligence writing for us, we live in an era where learning research is needed more than ever. Grace believes research empowers young people to

pursue their interests, solve crucial problems, and master essential skills like critical reasoning, in-depth thinking, and communication. Although there’s a huge demand for students to learn how to research, there’s a lack of engaging and illuminating research guidebooks.

Research To Empower is available for order from all major booksellers via https://www.research2empower. org/guidebook.

Syosset School Board to meet

The Syosset Board of Education will hold a Budget Information and Monthly Meeting on Monday, March 11, at 8 p.m. at South Woods Middle School, 99 Pell

Lane, Syosset.

The meeting will also be livestreamed on the district’s website, www.syossetschools.org

Jericho High School hosts Narcan training

Jericho High School recently completed optional Narcan training for students, thanks to the perseverance of student Soraya Hormozi. Soraya recognized a need for the training as students are about to go off to college and be put in different situations. She approached Jericho High School Social Worker Ray Velez and together they approached the Wellness Coalition with the idea. The Coalition was fully supportive. After discussing it with Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman, the idea because a reality, with support of the Board of Education.

Any interested student 17 years old

or older with parent permission attended the training, conducted by Linda Babolcsay, LCSWR, CASAC of the Well Life Network.  Lori McGaule also spoke at the training about her son and his journey into substance use, his experience with Narcan saving his life and his subsequent overdose.

Once the training was completed, students were given their own Narcan kit and the confidence to use it. Feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive. Jericho is planning more trainings in the future and will expand them to parents and staff.

The students picked up their Narcan kits after the training.

The Narcan training at Jericho High School was a huge success.

Syosset High School sophomore Grace C. Liu with CBS News reporter Cincy Hsu.

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This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Friday, February 23, at 2:00 p.m.

Friday Movie at the Library (IN-PERSON)

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

Sunday, January 25, at 1:00 p.m.

Six Songs Tom Petty (IN-PERSON)

Performers: Jim Coll, Jack Megale, and Jonathan Abrams

From his work with his amazing band the Heartbreakers to his chart-topping solo efforts, the musings of Tom Petty have had a tremendous impact on the world of popular music both before and since his untimely death in 2017. In this presentation—part lecture, part live performance—we seek to take a deeper dive into a half dozen songs by this artist to get a better understanding of the songwriter and the storyteller. Registration is required. To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Tuesday, February 27, at 2:00 p.m.

Afternoon Book Discussion (IN-PERSON)

Join Kaye, Readers’ Services Librarian for an in-person discussion of the novel “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry” by Fredrik Backman. Copies of the book will be available one month before the program. No registration needed.

Thursday, February 29, at 2:00 p.m.

Audra McDonald (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Marc Courtade,

retired arts director

Audra McDonald is an American actress and singer known primarily for her work on the Broadway stage. She has won six Tony Awards for performing, the most by any performer and is the only person to win in all four acting categories. McDonald continues to perform in stage, television and film roles. She pushes the boundaries and expands the range of her artistry.

Thursday, February 29, at 6:30 p.m.

Sashiko Art Class (IN-PERSON)

This traditional Japanese embroidery and stitching is currently trending and making quite a fashion statement, and is a great way to upcycle and improve your favorite clothing that may need an upgrade. Bring a pair of denim jeans, a tote bag or any stiff fabric to work on. Dark fabrics work better for this class. The library will provide all other supplies. Fee: $5. Registration is required. To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, March 1, at 1:00 p.m.

Irish Molasses

Raisin Bread (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Chef Rob Scott

Learn how to make this delicious bread which can be eaten anytime.  Patrons will need to bring in a 9x5 loaf pan, medium and large bowls, a whisk and rubber spatula. Registration required. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Fee: $5.

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Friday, February 23

2 p.m.: Teen Movie: “Barbie”Come to the JPL and watch the super popular Barbie movie with your friends!

Rated PG-13, 1 hr 54 min

Tuesday, February 27

2:30 p.m.: IN-PERSON: News

Currents with Elinor Haber - Join Elinor to participate in an informal exchange about topics of the day–the international, national and local scene. We’ll focus on trends that affect us now and in the future. Bring your thoughts, issues and a friend to join in the discussion.

ATTENTION STUDENTS!

We invite you to send details of your academic achievements, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be featured in our paper!

Submissions from students of all ages are welcome!

Bethpage students

create bags of kindness

Bethpage students throughout Central Boulevard Elementary School participated in a schoolwide Thoughtful Thursday project on Feb. 15. Each student decorated a brown paper grocery bag for a local King Kullen. On the bags, they drew colorful pictures and wrote positive messages to bring a smile to the face of the shopper who receives it. The goal of the project was to help spread positivity throughout the community and students had fun being able to showcase their creativity.

Photos courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

Central Boulevard third graders in Stephanie Geller’s class with their beautifully decorated grocery bags.

Kindergarten students in Kristen Ghisone’s class at Central Boulevard Elementary School held up their completed bags which will be given to King Kullen for shoppers to use.

Central Boulevard third grader Evangeline Gonsalves decorated her bag with positive messages.

Chinese American Assn. celebrates New Year

On February 2, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads helped to ring in the year of the dragon with the Plainview Chinese American Association at their Chinese New Year Gala at Stratford Road Elementary School. It was a wonderful opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together and celebrate the rich and vibrant culture of the Chinese American community. Senator Rhoads was honored to join in the fun cultural festivities and show his steadfast commitment to a continued collaboration between different communities to create a stronger and more prosperous New York.

Military Bridge raises funds for Mercy League

The Glen Cove - Hicksvile - Syosset League of Mercy Hospital will be holding a Military Bridge on Sunday, March 10, from 1:30 – 5 p.m. in Levittown Hall, 301 Levittown Parkway, Hicksville. Doors open at 1 p.m. $15 per person.

Knowledge of bridge is not necessary. This is a fun game which can be learned quickly as you play along.

Refreshments including coffee, tea and desserts will be served. Seating is limited.

There will be cash prizes for the top three teams. Upon arrival please check in at the door. All are welcome!

Please reserve your table of 4 (include team names) by February 29. Please make your checks payable to Mercy League for $15 per person. You may also pay at the door.

Please send your checks to Roseann Nicotra 6 Chadwick Road Syosset NY 11791. For more information, please call Roseann at 516-320-5567.

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Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!

Residents renew vows at Valentines ceremony

Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Supervisor Saladino, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrated with 100 residents at the Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal ceremony at Town Hall, including Joe and Marie Cagna of Bethpage, who celebrated 56 years of marriage.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca and Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrated with approximately 100 residents at a special Vow Renewal Ceremony held on Valentine’s Day at Town Hall. Co-sponsored by Raynham Hall Museum, the event featured a reading of America’s first Valentine, which was written on February 14, 1779 in Oyster Bay.

The story of America’s first Valentine is a proud piece of Oyster Bay history which dates back to the time of the

Revolutionary War, as British troops occupied Long Island homes. During the height of the American Revolutionary War, love improbably blossomed between Lt. Col Simcoe and a young patriot named Sally Townsend as the Townsend property served as a headquarters for a regiment of 300 British troops. Lt. Col. Simcoe presented Sally with a poem he wrote asking her to be his Valentine, and his famous poem, entitled “Will You Be My Valentine,” became the first documented written Valentine in America.

Casino bus trip

Joseph Barry Columbiettes will be hosting a bus trip to the Wind Creek Bethlehem (formerly Sands) Casino Bethlehem, PA on Tuesday, March 19.

The cost of $55 per person, includes the driver’s tip and $35 slots play giveback.

Please arrive at 8:30 a.m. Return is at

approx. 8:30 p.m.

Parking: 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (dead end);

For reservations please call call Barbara at (516) 935-5576. Please make checks payable to Joseph Barry Columbiettes.

Get rid of your unwanted items by placing an ad for them in our Classifieds! We have reasonable rates, and you’ll have prompt results! Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for rates and other info.

“ The Vacant Space Revival Program qualified us for on-bill credits that really help me manage costs.”

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown

Smithtown

—

Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.

psegliny.com/EcoDev

February

Visiting Paris This Year? Plan in Advance

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

If your purpose for visiting Paris and France this year is to take in the Olympics, by all means go, but make plans really early, lock in reservations to visit the sites, attractions, restaurants, hotels, even train or bus transportation you most want to include.

Paris (with 85,000 hotel rooms) is expecting about 15 million visitors as it hosts the Olympics (July 26-August 11) and Paralympics (August 28-Sept. 8. Other events to keep in mind: Tour de France, from June 29 to July 21; and Tour de France Femmes, from August 12 to 18.

The fact is, Paris is so popular (for good reason), there is no longer the “shoulder” season or “off season” (especially as more travelers seek the comparative comfort of cooler seasons, known as “coolcationing”). No matter when you travel, to get the most out of your visit, it is essential to do pre-planning. The days of just strolling into the major attractions are well gone, so advance purchase of timed- and capacity-controlled tickets will still be essential. Book online as soon as you know your dates of travel. In that way, you can avoid wasting valuable time and money waiting on line for tickets (followed by the line for security). Moreover, having a set time to visit the key attraction on your list will help you structure your day – while still allowing for serendipitous experiences and discoveries.

I must admit that my decision to spend four days in Paris at the end of my European Waterways canal boat cruise in the Alsace-Lorraine was a bit spontaneous and I didn’t have as much time as I would have liked to do

If you hope to go to the Roof of the Arc D’Triomphe for the dramatic view, purchase tickets in advance. The attraction is included Paris Museum Pass.

© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

the research and preparation which I am recommending here. (So I didn’t get to go up the Arc de Triomphe or the Eiffel Tower.) And planning out my visit for a city as big (and yet, as I found, not so big that I couldn’t walk everywhere), with as many highlights, was intimidating from a logistics point of view. So I began as I would hope other travelers do: I consulted what other travel writers have written about “four days” in Paris, and checked the various lists of “top attractions” like on tripadvisor.com.

I had my list of top attractions, but how to organize in the best way?

I started with figuring out the priority attractions – Le Louvre, Musee D’Orsay – that would require advance, timed tickets, and made each of them the centerpiece of a day. Musee D’Orsay is closed on Monday; Le Louvre is closed on Tuesday. Then I looked to what was around, but

much of how I spent my day after was pretty spontaneous.

Most surprising to me, was how easy it is to get around Paris – especially walking and by bicycle (with loads of bicycle share stations), with its special biking lanes and traffic signals, and traffic signals and crossings that favor pedestrians. For those who prefer, the superb metro and bus system has multi-day tickets.

I walk everywhere – because it is the whole of Paris that is the attraction – the architecture, the people, the street activity, and the sheer beauty of the city, absolutely one of the most beautiful, enchanting in the world. And not just around the stunning sites of the Eiffel Tower, Le Louvre, Musee D’Orsay and Notre Dame (which you can see as it is restored), but neighborhoods that are so picturesque, interesting, and full of character. So I plot the walking time into my day.

But walking around, is the best way to come upon those “hidden gems” that no one else knows about. You have a cascade of serendipitous experiences, compelling places and surprises around every corner. It’s like surrendering yourself to the universe, or in this case, the city, and let it find you. And sometimes, when you set out in search for something, all these other things emerge.

(GPS is only helpful when you already have internet, but you should plot your route and then download so you have the maps offline, which I kept forgetting to do, so I often relied on actual maps and the kindness of wonderful strangers, even with my very limited French, to point me in the right direction.)

During my three-plus days in Paris, I visit the highlights:

Arrival afternoon:

• Arc d’Triomphe

• Stroll the quais along the Seine for the magnificent views of Eiffe Tower at sunset into the night

Day 1: (Sunday)

• Musee D’Orsay

• Isle de la Cite (to see the restoration of Notre Dame)

• Sainte-Chappelle

• Tuileries Gardens

• Place de la Concorde

• Stroll the quais along the Seine to the Eiffel Tower at night

Day 2 (Monday)

• Le Louvre

• Notre Dame (again)

• Isle de France

• Marais District/Holocaust Memorial Day 3 (Tuesday)

• Marais District/Holocaust memorials

• Place des Vosges

• Museum of Paris History (a high light)

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Visiting Paris This Year? Plan in Advance

• Musee d’Art D’Histoire du Judaism

• Musee Picasso-Paris

• Bastille monument

• Place Royale

Day 4 (Wednesday)

• Montmartre

• Musee Montmartre

• Dali Gallery

• Sacre Coeur

Yes, these are the most popular sites, but they are popular for very good reason, and if you are not a frequent visitor to Paris, you would be doing yourself a disservice not to experience them yourself. But there are ways to make the experience your own. Your list of “highlights” might be different – like the bateaux mouches cruise on the Seine (included in the Paris attractions pass).

I highly recommend getting the Paris Museum Pass ((https://www.parismuseumpass.fr/t-en, which provides admissions to 34 museums in Paris and 11 more in the region) or the Paris Pass (parispass.com) which not only makes attractions and experiences more affordable, but will absolutely add to what you see and do, and also provides such helpful information as hours, location, proximity to where you are. When booking, try to book the earliest available times or evening times, and midweek over weekend.

You are likely to arrive in Paris at the Charles de Gaulle Airport, which has easy train connection to downtown – purchase your metro ticket in advance at a wonderful visitor information office as you walk out, and even a multi-day ticket. This will cut down on wasted time waiting on line to buy a ticket and the confusion of knowing what zone you need. And it saves quite a lot of money. But the best part is you don’t think about how much you are spending – it all seems free.

Coming from Strasbourg by train at the end of my six-day canal cruise of the Alsace Lorraine aboard European Waterways’ Panache, I arrived at Gard d’Est and made my way on the metro (after going in the wrong direction on the metro) to a stop just in front of the Arc d’Triomphe. My hotel, the Hotel Napoleon, a five-star boutique hotel which put me perfectly into the atmosphere of Napoleon’s Empire period, is not even a half-block away, and a short block off the magnificent Champs Elysee. (Note: book train tickets in advance, www.raileurope.com)

It was afternoon, and I quickly checked in to this charming boutique hotel, which instantly made me feel like this is my posh Parisian residence, dropped my bag, and went out to explore the Arc de Triomphe.

Arc de Triomphe

This iconic symbol of France is set in the middle of a roundabout (the Place D’Etoile, like a star”) where 12 busy boulevards converge, including the magnificent Champs d’Elysee which is aligned with its center. Don’t even think about trying to cross the roundabout - you must walk through underground passageways to get across the busy boulevards that encircle the monument (There’s a pedestrian tunnel at Place Charles de Gaulle on the north side of the Champs-Élysées that will take you down to the arch.)

Building the Arc de Triomphe began in 1806 on Napoleon’s orders. Just a year earlier, in 1805, Napoleon’s forces won a decisive victory over Russian and Austrian troops at the Battle of Austerlitz. French architect JeanFrançois-Thérèse Chalgrin took his inspiration from the great arches of the world, and designed Triomphe to be the largest in the world. The arch is 164 feet tall, and twice a year, the sun sets directly in the center. It took 30 years to

A GREENER VIEW

complete the arch which was officially opened by King Louis-Phillipe on July 29, 1836.

Today, the Arc de Triomphe is more of a symbol of peace and is very recognizable as the end point for the Tour de France cyclists. For the French, the Arc de Triomphe is more than commemorative, but is foundational in the French national republican consciousness.

In 1921 the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was incorporated into the monument, and today the tomb’s flame is rekindled every evening at 6.30 p.m. to show respect for All of France’s fallen.

One such event was just winding up as I arrived.

I was transfixed by the arch, the spectacular bas-reliefs of historic events that grace each pillar, the most famous, The Departure of the Volunteers, also known as La Marseillaise, was created by the Romantic sculptor François Rude in 1792.

Admittedly, I didn’t know that you could enter the monument and climb the 284 steps to to the terrace (an elevator is available for those who require it) for a view, or that there is a museum inside

- The Permanent ‘Great Moments of French History’ exhibition which traces the story of the Arc de Triomphe and explains the architecture, friezes and sculptures. So I definitely did not book tickets in advance. But the line to purchase tickets was ridiculous so I happily contented myself to just study the stunning reliefs and be transfixed by the arch’s form. (Having a Paris Museum Pass would have provided free admission without the need to reserve a time.)

What I missed, though was the dramatic view from the top: looking down the Champs-Élysées to the Louvre, out to La Defense, around to the Eiffel Tower. And you look straight down at one of the world’s largest round-abouts,

2024 All-America Selections Winners

BY JEFF RUGG

One way that I know a plant could work well in my garden is that I look for the red, white and blue logo of All-America Selections on seed packets, on bedding plant tags or in catalogs. Even AAS winners from several years ago are more likely to prove successful than nonwinners.

The AAS testing program is an independent nonprofit organization that tests new plants. They have about 80 test gardens from Alaska and Canada to California and Florida. They also have almost 200 display gardens all across the continent that are not used for judging but are used to show gardeners how well the plants grow locally.

Today we will cover all three 2024 vegetable trial winners and a couple of the flower winners. Next week, we will finish with the remaining flower winners.

Purple Magic is a purple broccoli. The flower buds (the part we eat) have a purple cast over a dark green, while the flower stalks are a bright royal purple. It can be cooked or eaten raw in the same way as any broccoli, but it is sweeter and more tender than regular green broccoli. It grows in full sun and can be transplanted into the garden five weeks before the average last spring frost. Harvest is in three months, and if the plant is left to grow after the initial harvest, small side shoots will be able to be harvested for several months. These smaller shoots are perfect

for adding to broccoli soup.

The other broccoli winner is Skytree. It grows in a vertical shape, making it easy to harvest the tender stems and flower buds. Planted at the same time as Purple Magic, it will be harvested as much as three weeks earlier. It can be eaten and cooked the same way as Purple Magic.

The final vegetable garden winner in 2024 is the sweet red pepper Red Impact. This pepper will live up to its name in your garden. The peppers are 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, bright red and very sweet. They can be harvested green if you want to. They can be eaten raw, roasted or stuffed. Plant them when the soil

Continued on page next

where the 12 avenues come together. You can purchase tickets in advance; the Arch is also included on the Paris Museum pass http://en.parismuseumpass.com/

I continued my walk well into the evening, following the route the concierge at the Hotel Napoleon laid out for me: strolling down the Champs Elysee, turning onto the Avenue George V (and passed the famous Hotel George V), to the Seine, coming upon that stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, with the bateaux mouches sailing by.

Paris is truly magical, truly the City of Light and romance. Couples walk along the quai, attach a lock to just about any wrought iron they can find, pose for a selfie.

Walking back to the Hotel Napoleon on a tony residential street just off the Champs Elysee, you feel more like you are going back to your swank apartment rather than a hotel.

Hôtel Napoléon Paris 5, 40, av. de Friedland 75008 Paris, Direct phone   +33156684480, www. hotelnapoleon.com, https://www.historichotels.org/hotels-resorts/hotel-napoleon-paris/, https://preferredhotels.com/ hotels/france/hotel-napoleon-paris

More planning help from the Paris Tourist Office, https://parisjetaime. com/eng/. Online ticketing at https:// parisjetaime.com/eng/tickets

For Olympics planning (and where you can purchase tickets that become available), https://www.paris2024.org/ en/

Next: Musee D’Orsay Highlights Day 2 in Paris

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

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

On weekends and holidays my family likes to play long, leisurely games of “Monopoly.” Because little kids also participate, we bend the rules just a little bit. What’s funny is that when my husband, Danny, or I say, “Let’s start a game of Monopoly,” our dog, Baxter, lifts his ears and wants to play, too.

He heads over to a small pocketbook we keep in the living room and lifting it with his mouth, Baxter heads to Danny or me and is excited about playing Monopoly. Opening the pocketbook for Baxter, he sees lots and lots of fake Monopoly money inside and somehow he knows or senses that it’s his money to play with.

A five-year-old Golden retriever, Baxter is as smart as can be and from the day we got him he’s made himself an integral part of our family. He’s got a gentle and affectionate nature and has a striking golden coat. Baxter’s a medium-size dog, not small like a terrier and not large like a St. Bernard. Baxter is excellent at playing fetch outside in the large back yard but indoors on cold winter days he seems happily entertained by a lively game of Monopoly.

Placing the Monopoly board on top of the ottoman in our living room, Danny, our two kids, Jake, who’s eight, and Joanie, six, gather around. We sit on the couch and kneel on the carpet as Danny plays the banker and distributes the initial amount of cash to each of us. He then shuffles and sets out the stacks of Chance and Community Chest cards in their right spots on the board.

Choosing our playing pieces, I pick the penguin, Danny chooses the race car, Joanie picks the Scottie dog and Jake always chooses the top hat. He likes that one.

Rolling the dice to see who goes first, Joanie is the lucky one then Jake so around we go as we start landing on utilities and buying property. When

WRITER’S CORNER

The Dog that Plays Monopoly

one of us lands on “Go to Jail” and has to pay a $50 fine, we skip that because Jake and Joanie are just kids and having to pay that penalty is negative. We’d rather be optimistic as we move ahead and build on our real estate. Monopoly is a fun game, one that makes me feel like a real estate mogul as I buy my favorite properties. I always like to get railroads and utilities but each person has their favorites.

When we land on a desirable property, we get rather excitable and Baxter gets excited, too. He’s right there squeezed between two of us and I’ve noticed that he seems to watch the movement on the board as attentively as we humans do. Sometimes Baxter grabs his money and throws it on the board.

Jake considers himself an old hand at Monopoly and Joanie is the precocious one who comes out with some cute sayings as she snaps up Boardwalk and Park Place and continues with her real estate buying spree. Sometimes Jake wins the game and sometimes he doesn’t but he sure has fun playing with all of us.

Danny and I take turns letting Baxter roll the dice, buy property and collect the rents that inevitably come in. We make believe he is playing - and he sure looks like he’s concentrating on the Monopoly board - because including Baxter in our family game helps make it all the more exciting. When each game ends and we congratulate the winner Baxter barks good naturedly. It’s his way of chiming in and being part of the group.

We slept well that night pleased with how our game of Monopoly went. The next day my brother, Steven, and his wife, Jill, came over for brunch along with their brother and sister dogs, Akila and Kanoe. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were happy to be part of our little party.

As we enjoyed our omelettes and

A GREENER VIEW

Continued from previous page

warms up and they can be harvested in 75 days. The plants are very disease resistant. Each plant can have 15 of these half-pound peppers.

I am not a big fan of Celosia, but I might have to try Burning Embers. It has both bright pink flowers and bronze-colored leaves. There were more flower plumes, and they lasted longer than other Celosias in the trial gardens. It also flowered well in both hot weather and high humidity.

Geraniums are one of the most popular garden flowers every summer. The Big EEZE is a series of geranium variet-

ies that grow very well in containers. Not being into fabrics, I didn’t know what a batik fabric was, so I tried researching it. I still don’t think I know what it is, but it appears that from a distance, some of the color patterns look speckled or freckled.

Pink Batik geranium flowers have a light pink to white background with dark pink to red freckling and striping. They are very pretty. The quantity of flowers is outstanding. If you have grown geraniums in the past, you can grow this AAS winner.

Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com. .

COPYRIGHT 2024 JEFF RUGG DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS

lingered over coffee we caught up on family news. Then everyone headed out the back door to frolic in the two inches of snow that had fallen overnight. Our back yard looked pretty. It’s up against a golf course and the pure white snow looked pristine and covered everything.

We were the first to set foot on it and everyone had fun playing in the snow. The kids laughed as they tossed snowballs here and there. They were friendly fights and no one got covered in snow.

Baxter loves playing in the snow so he jumped right in and tried catching the snowballs. Akila and Kanoe joined in the fun although Kanoe was the more adventurous of the two.

Afterwards we went back inside to warm up and gather around the dining room table with mugs full of hot chocolate. Akila and Kanoe sat on Steven and Jill’s laps, happy to be cuddled and part of the group.

Danny had turned on the fireplace so the room was warm and the flames threw off a cozy ambiance. We told Steven and Jill about the prior day’s

Monopoly game and before they could even ask, Joanie proudly announced that she had won.

Steven congratulated her on winning the game then asked Joanie what her strategy was. Without hesitating she said snapping up the best properties on the board as quickly as she could. We all laughed because young Joanie was so serious about buying the Monopoly real estate. She also has a competitive streak and enjoys being the winner of the game.

Jake said that he was thinking of asking to play a second game but somehow he knew his parents had had enough of Monopoly for one day.

At one point as we all chatted I looked over at Baxter and there he was lying comfortably next to the fireplace. Curled up next to him and making themselves right at home were Akila and Kanoe. There was one Cavalier on each side of Baxter and all three dogs looked as happy as could be.

This is fiction.

BY TOM MARGENAU

This column should be coming out around Valentine’s Day. And it was 50 years ago, on Valentine’s Day, that my soon-to-be wife and I went out on our first date. How that came about makes for a cute story.

I had just started working for the Social Security office in the small farming community of Litchfield, Illinois. I had moved there from my hometown in Wisconsin just a month or so before. So I didn’t know anybody in town.

One of my duties was to verify Medicare numbers for the billing department of the Litchfield hospital. A local lass named Becky worked in that department and called me every day to check those numbers.

Becky’s boss knew that she was single and somehow learned that I was single, too. And he decided to play matchmaker. He invited me to the hospital for lunch. But the real purpose was so that I could meet Becky.

If it wasn’t love at first sight, it was close. And I was smitten enough that a week or so later, I finally worked up the courage to call Becky and ask her out on a date. And being the poster boy for anxiety and anal retentiveness, I had scripted out my entire conversation with her. It was in diagram form. For example, if she said yes, it led to one series of questions and comments. If she said no, it led to another and much shorter series of questions and comments.

Fortunately, after some nervous small talk, her answer to my first question (“Hey, do you want to go to a movie?”) was “Yes.” So that led me down the positive side of my scripted question list.

I was asking her out to the hit movie of the time, “American Graffiti,” about the last summer together of a group of high school seniors. The movie supposedly took place in 1962, and the tagline for the movie was “Where were you in ‘62?”

And that led to one of my clever scripted questions, “Hey Becky, where were you in ‘62?” Now in 1962, I was in 7th grade. And based on my one meeting with Becky at the hospital, I guessed she was about my age. So her answer surprised me. She said, “Oh, 1962 was the year I graduated from high school.”

Oh, my god! There was nothing on my sheet of questions that covered that answer! I was asking an “older woman” out on a date! I stammered! I panicked!

I gave some thought to saying, “Oh wait a minute, I can’t go out. I’m polishing my shoes that evening.” There was nothing in my script to save me. I didn’t know what to do!

OK, long story short, I ended up going out on the date. And now here it is, 50 years later. Becky is still five years older than me. But I’ve long since gotten over the shock and panic of that discovery and I’ve been back on script ever since.

Geezers, Floozies and Valentines

But that story reminds me that not everyone stays married forever. And the rest of this column deals with folks whose marriages didn’t last as long as ours has.

Q: I’m part of a group of old geezers who gets together every week at the local coffee place. Social Security is a frequent topic of conversation. At our last meeting, the subject of benefits for divorcees came up. One of our geezers was married to his first wife for 16 years and has been married to his second wife for 30 years. His first wife remarried, but she is now divorced from that guy after 20 years of marriage. Our geezer pal is curious who will get what when he dies. He’s mostly wondering if his first wife will get Social Security from him or from her second husband.

A: Well, the answer depends on a lot of “ifs ands or buts” not made clear in your email to me -- such as people’s ages and Social Security benefit rates. So I’ll make up a scenario to give you an example of how all this would play out. We’ve got four people:

-- Geezer is 68 years old, started his benefits at age 67 and gets $2,100 per month from Social Security.

-- Princess, his current wife, is 62 and gets her own Social Security retirement benefit amounting to $900 per month.

-- Floozie, Geezer’s first wife, is 68, and she gets $1,200 per month in her own Social Security retirement checks.

-- Wheezer is Floozie’s second husband, the guy she divorced after 20 years of marriage. Let’s say he is 70, still living, and gets $2,200 per month from Social Security.

And now let’s say Geezer dies, and we’ll see what happens. Princess has a couple choices to make. If she wants, she can immediately switch to widow’s benefits. She’d keep getting her own retirement check, and that would be supplemented up to about 82% of his full rate, or about $1,722. So, she’d get $900 on her own account and $822 in widow’s benefits.

Or, she can opt to continue receiving just her $900 retirement check for now, and then at age 67 get that supplemented up to Geezer’s full rate. So, at age 67 she’d get her own $900 plus $1,200 in widow’s benefits for a total of $2,100. And no matter which decision she makes, she’d get the one-time $255 death benefit.

Floozie is also eligible for widow’s benefits on Geezer’s record, because she was married to him for more than 10 years and she is currently unmarried. Since she is over her full retirement age, her own retirement benefit can be supplemented up to Geezer’s full rate. So, she’ll continue to get her own $1,200 per month, and she’ll get $900 from Geezer’s account to take her up to Geezer’s full $2,100 benefit rate. (And please note that anything paid to Floozie, the divorced wife, doesn’t take a nickel away from the benefits due to Princess.)

Floozie isn’t due anything on Wheezer’s

(her second husband’s) Social Security account -- at least not while he is still living. She’s technically due a divorced wife’s benefit (at a 50% rate) on his record, but she can’t get that because her own benefit, $1,200, exceeds half his rate, or $1,100. And of course, now that we also add in Geezer’s widow’s benefit, her combined Social Security benefits greatly exceed anything

she is due from Wheezer.

However, when Wheezer dies, she can then switch to divorced widow’s benefits on his record. Her checks from Geezer would stop. And her own $1,200 retirement benefit would be supplemented with $1,000 from Wheezer’s record to take her

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Lower or higher interest rates a double edged sword

Well, we are now into 2024 and interest rates have come down from the high of 8%+ in 2023, and now according to https://WWW.NerdWallet.com, 30-year fixed rates w/full doc loans are vacillating in and around 7%-7.9% APR depending on one’s income, credit and debt/income ratios as well as the lender. Fifteen-year rates w/full doc loans are hovering around a low of 6%+ APR. Many of the expert economists are not 100% confident that they will go down and some even contemplate that they could even still increase, depending on the inflation numbers. One thing is for sure, our government says inflation has increased and is hovering around 3.9% in February; affected mainly by consumer spending, supply-chain shortages, and I believe even unemployment. Their numbers don’t convey to me the entire story. As I have mentioned in previous columns, the Fed inflation formula is the prices of goods and services over time. As inflation increases so does the CPI, and the value of your dollar (and our U.S. currency) decreases, enabling one to purchase fewer goods and services for the same dollar amount. The cost of living increases for most, as you need more dollars to buy the same amount of goods and services. This can hamstring the economy by depressing purchasing capability.

However, too low inflation is also unacceptable, because it’s an impediment and restriction on economic growth. More important the current inflation numbers are not representative of and do not include or account for the cost of energy, food, or shelter, which can have a more negative effect on the true inflation numbers, if included. The Fed says that they are too volatile to be included; but how can we trust and judge actual inflation that we are all experiencing if they are not included? If we knew the truth, we just might slow down are conspicuous consumption spending habits. More important 70% of our economy is consumer spending; so the government doesn’t want us to stop spending, but possibly to curtail the number of dollars spent. But isn’t that how inflation can be reduced, by balancing some-

Continued from previous page

what less spending and decreasing the number of new jobs needed to a more manageable level? However, you wouldn’t know this by the current credit card debt increasing month over month and the 353,000 jobs that were just created in January.

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

The next time bomb to drop will be all the mortgages due for refinancing on office buildings throughout the U.S. The rates probably will double, possibly triple, depending on the debt/income of the properties and the risk to the banks. The cap rates, profit, and values are being severely affected, due to the Pandemic that caused the exiting of employees to settle into remote and hybrid work environments. Values have continued tumbling and there will be many more fire sales. Paying off their current humongous mortgages will be very challenging, if not impossible! Many Hedge Funds and REITS (real estate investment trusts) have been handing over their non-performing properties back to their lenders and have been snatched up at severely discounted prices. Refinancing just might be moot to consider as there still would be negative cash flow and losses. Not sure how so many economists, no-italls, and prognosticators keep talking about a soft landing! I do hope they are correct, but I am far from agreeing and accepting their statements observing what is continuing to occur in the commercial market. The jury is out and we’ll all see what happens over the next 12-24 months.

If the Fed Chair, Jerome Powell does initiate and approve a reduction, how many will there be and what will the total percentage be during 2024? Even if rates were to go down to 5%, which I seriously doubt, the average renter who would want to buy, may still be shut out of the market, due to the still ever-increasing and high prices of homes and extremely low housing inventory; especially on Long Island as well as in other areas throughout the country. Unless demand subsides

and rates stay the same, I predict that local inventory may take 5-10 years to catch up with the current and future demand for housing. We lack approximately 5-6 million homes to satisfy current demand from those who are entering the market yearly and are capable of purchasing. For more information:

https://WWW.ipropertymanagement.com and https://WWW. statista.com Only those who are bringing home a substantial income whether it be as a high-paying executive or self-employed entrepreneur, or possible 2-3 wage, salary or income earners, will be able to save enough for a much larger downpayment. Only those families will be able to pay the monthly mortgage, taxes, and expenses and be able to purchase a home, multi-family, HOA, condo, or coop.

Unfortunately, everyone else will either be a tenant (possibly for life) or be living with family. Sadly, those 43.2 million students burdened with their substantial debt approaching 1.7 trillion and private student debt of 130.28 billion, are 2 additional groups that will probably be forever renters unless they can pay down or pay off their obligations. For more information: https://www.educationdata.org

The other issue and major dilemma that needs to be addressed is that if and when rates are lowered what effect will there be on reinvigorating and increasing inflation? Consumers may again go on a continued spending spree with their credit cards adding to even higher more substantial and unsustainable debt levels. On the flip side, lower rates will allow more qualified individuals and families to buy a home. According to https://WWW.attomdata.com, the premier go-to source for premium property data shows that Lis Pens (pre-foreclosures) and foreclosures have been spiking from December 2023 through January 2024. So I do not think we are out of the woods by a long shot. It’s a real catch-22, damned if we do lower or increase rates and damned if we don’t.

P.S. I am having a contest. Whoever

SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOU

guesses correctly, how many interest rate reductions and the total percentage reduced will win a dinner with my wife and me and a surprise bonus. The contest will end on 3/31/24 and the final drawing will be on 12/28/24. The first correct answer picked will be the winner! To be qualified, you must send your answers to Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate. Com with your legal 1st and last name, cell, and email by midnight on 3/31/24.

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

Save his new digital business card/ Bio/Reviews to your cell, PC or Laptop contacts: https://onetapconnect.com/ turnkeyrealestate-philraices You can purchase this technology by scrolling all the way down to the bottom and click on the link “Get Your Connect Card.”

He will give you 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 also 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 free 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 Philip at (516) 647-4289.

BY MARY HUNT

Kids of elementary school age are becoming aware of the real world around them. They are eager to learn and still believe everything adults tell them. And they want their own money.

For all of those reasons, I suggest that now is the perfect time to start a simple allowance system. This will create wonderful opportunities for you to pass on your values as you closely guide your young children through simple lessons on giving, needs-versus-wants and delaying gratification.

HOW MUCH?

So, how much allowance should a young child receive? The amount depends on your financial situation. Some families set allowance according to age -- say, $1 for each year of age. This eliminates questions about when and how much to increase.

HOW OFTEN?

At this age, kids do better with close supervision and short time frames, so receiving their allowance weekly is best.

SHOULD IT BE

TIED TO CHORES?

Many experts say allowance should absolutely be the payment children receive for doing their chores and assigned jobs. No work, no pay.

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Give Your Kids Flying Lessons

Others feel that citizens of the “family community” should share in its income and responsibilities. They say an allowance should not be the payment for chores, but they add that with privilege comes responsibility. Citizens must do chores and jobs because they are part of the community. That’s what good citizens do.

4-JAR MANAGEMENT

A simple way to teach a child basic money management is to get four jars and label them: “giving,” “long-term savings,” “short-term savings” and “spend now.” Clear plastic containers are best because your child will be able to see how the coins and currency are accumulating, but you won’t worry about the hazards glass containers can present.

“Giving” is money your child gives to charity or church.

“Long-term savings” are for college or something far in the future.

“Short-term savings” are for something significant like a new bike or special toy.

“Spend now” is money your child can spend right away.

Using the four-container system, you may decide on a 10-30-30-30 plan, where 10% is designated for giving and 30% each for long-term, short-term and immediate spending. Or you can do 10-3040-20. Whatever it is, make it nonnego-

tiable, and then help your children use their math skills while at the same time developing a habit of managing their money before they spend it,

Last, teach your children, “To whom much is given, much is required!” A simple spending journal is a way that children can become accountable for how and where they spend their money.

The goal of parenting is to help children grow wings to eventually fly away. Building financial confidence in your children’s lives is one important way you can prepare them for the flight.

You may believe that you have lots of time to deal with the letting-go part of parenting. That may be true, but I can tell you from experience that it will be a lot easier if you start now.

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

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

6 Things Kids Need To Know About Spending Money

BY MARY HUNT

What grade would you give your parents for how well they prepared you to manage your finances? What grade will your kids give you someday?

There are six basic financial principles your kids need to know before they leave the safety net of home.

NO.

1: HOW YOU SPEND AFFECTS YOUR FUTURE

Kids need to know that if they spend their money without thinking about their choices, they will probably make

bad decisions. Teach them how to stop and think before making any spending decision.

NO. 2: CREATE

GOALS FOR HOW YOU WILL SPEND YOUR MONEY

A goal is like a roadmap. It shows where you are and where you want to go. When setting goals, think short-term, medium-term and long-term. Shortterm goals might have something to do with tomorrow. Medium-term could be months or even a year away. Long-term goals are far away. Here’s a secret: Until goals are actually written down, they’re not goals at all. They’re dreams. It’s important to get into the habit of writing down goals and following with a plan for how to reach them.

NO. 3: YOUR VALUES INFLUENCE THE WAY YOU SPEND MONEY

Your kids’ values are more likely caught that taught. What you do speaks louder than what you say. Let them catch you in the act of saving, giving to others and saying words such as “budget” and “savings.” Instead of saying, “We can’t afford it,” say instead, “We don’t choose to spend our money that way.” Let the

kids know that you save first and spend later and that debt is a cruel master.

NO. 4: UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WANTS

AND NEEDS

Sometimes, it’s not easy to tell the difference between a want and a need. A need is something required to sustain life, health or safety, or to comply with a legal obligation. Food, shelter, clothes, medicine and paying taxes are needs. But it can get a little complicated. Are Levi jeans a need or a want? Clothes are a need, but paying a lot of money to get a certain brand crosses over to a want. There is nothing wrong with wanting things. It’s important for kids to be crystal-clear on whether something is a need or a want.

NO. 5: OPPORTUNITY COST IS REAL

What we give up when making a spending decision is called the “opportunity cost.” Let’s say you have $5. You can save it or spend it. If I choose to spend it, you can do that only once. You lose the opportunity to save it and to derive all the benefits that come with saving. Is that one-time purchase worth the opportunity cost? Train your brain to calculate

the opportunity cost of every spending decision and you will start making better choices with your money.

NO. 6: YOU CAN’T HAVE IT ALL, BUT YOU CAN HAVE ENOUGH

Every day, we make decisions, and many of them involve money. Let the kids know that as they prove they can be responsible with money, they’ll have more of it to take care of. Making good decisions with their money now will make their lives much more enjoyable in the future.

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

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of Feb. 25 -- March 2, 2024

We in the Southern California deserts have had some pretty bad weather over the past month or so. Clouds, rain and wind have all kept me indoors. Sure, the rain is good for our upcoming desert wildflower season, but I want to see stars!

Thankfully, the incoming storms have subsided, but it’s now turned cold. Well, not “real” cold like those in other parts of the world must endure, but for us desert dwellers it feels quite wintery. And, every year at this time, I find myself looking for evidence that spring is on its way.

When I was a child, I would brush the snow back from my mother’s garden to search for signs of green growth. Today, I look toward the skies.

Since the Earth orbits the sun annually, our night sky changes as we look outward in different directions from month to month. During winter, our early evening sky is graced by the dazzling stars of Orion and company. By springtime, however, these stars will have drifted westward as new stars appear in the east. This is the springtime sky and, whenever I spot it after dark, I feel the same excitement I did in my mother’s garden when the first sprouts appeared under the snow.

The Return of Leo

We’re at that time now, folks, and I couldn’t be more thrilled!

After dark, go outdoors and look toward the east and northeast. There you’ll find the celestial harbingers of spring that I seek every year: the Big Dipper and Leo.

If you’ve been wondering where the Dipper has been, you’re not alone. Many early evening stargazers aren’t aware that, in mid-northern latitudes, we don’t see it during winter since it lies below the horizon. But now it’s rising in the northeast, and it shines quite prominently after dark.

Highest in the sky you’ll see four stars that form a rectangular bowl, and beneath it hang three stars that trace its bent handle. The two bowl stars that lie farthest from the handle serve as pointer stars. Follow them to the left and they’ll point toward Polaris, the North Star. Follow them to the right, however, and they’ll take you directly to Leo, the lion.

Leo is one of the few constellations that, with some imagination, can be pictured as a lion crouching in a regal pose reminiscent of the enigmatic Egyptian sphinx. The brightest star there is Regulus, which shines below the lion’s majestic head and mane, outlined by a large backward question mark. The star’s very name, “Regulus,” comes from the Latin word “Rex” meaning “king,” and not surprisingly, this star

was revered throughout antiquity as a “royal” star.

If you have trouble tracing this animal among the stars, don’t worry. Just reverse it and you might see not the mighty king of the jungle, but a mouse! Quite frankly, I think the figure of a mouse is much easier to trace. Here, the star Denebola forms the tip of the

mouse’s nose, and the backward question mark now traces its long, curving tail.

Any way you look at it, however, mouse or lion, nothing roars springtime louder than the first appearance of Leo!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

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LOST IN SUBURBIA

The Case of the Puffy Face

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Even before I looked in the mirror, I knew my face was puffy. It might have had something to do with the fact that I could feel my cheeks touching my eyebrows, or maybe that my lips felt like they were the size of eggplants. I knew some women paid good money for lips that looked like mine, but at that moment, I suspected it was probably not a good look for me.

When I finally did take a peek in the mirror, I realized it wasn’t just regular old “I probably slept on my face” puffy. It was more like “I look like the Pillsbury Doughboy” puffy. It was clear something dramatic had happened while I slept. It was like the tooth fairy had taken out a hit on me.

“What happened to your face?” my husband asked when I emerged from the bathroom.

“What do you mean?” I said, feigning ignorance.

“You’re all, um, puffy.”

“Oh?” I said. “I hadn’t noticed.”

“Really?” he said.

“OF COURSE NOT,” I boomed. “How could I not notice that I woke up looking like a popover?”

He backed up slowly out of the bedroom, realizing this was one land mine he did not want to step on.

“Call the doctor,” he shouted from the other room.

I should mention that this wasn’t the first time I’ve had a puffy face. I experienced something similar years ago when I had my kids. When most women get pregnant, their feet swell. For me, it was my face. Of course, this may have had more to do with all the doughnuts I ate while I was pregnant than the pregnancy itself, but for arguments sake we’ll just say it was pregnancy.

However, I was not pregnant now, and unless, by some miracle of middle age magic, wouldn’t ever be again, so it clearly wasn’t a hormonal thing. I also didn’t

recall eating anything the day before that I might have had a reaction to, such as blowfish poison, which could leave you looking like an actual blowfish, assuming you didn’t die first.

Realizing I couldn’t figure this out myself, I scheduled a televisit with my doctor.

“Your face is very puffy,” my doctor said to me when she came on screen.

“See, that’s why I chose you as my doctor,” I said. “Because of your keen observational skills and masterful assessments.”

“It’s my superpower,” she said. “So, what did you eat last night?”

“Nothing out of the ordinary.”

“New cosmetics?” she said. “Nope.”

“Well, I’d say it definitely looks like an allergic reaction.” She stared at my face in silence for a few moments.

“What did you wear yesterday?” she asked.

“Um, a new wool sweater. A turtle-

neck.”

“Is your neck itchy?”

“Yes, actually, it is,” I said. I had been so busy fretting about my puffy face that I hadn’t noticed my itchy neck.

“You had an allergic reaction to the wool,” she concluded.

“Wow. OK,” I said, recalling how uncomfortable I’d been at the end of the day. “So, that’s something new. Are you sure?”

“Did you snore last night?” she asked.

“Actually, I did.”

“Well, that’s that,” she said. “You either had a reaction to the sweater, or your husband tried to smother you with a pillow.”

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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These stars signal the beginning of springtime!

CLASSIFIEDS ...a sure way to get results. Call 294.8900

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EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

FOOD CONCESSION MANAGER WANTED

Snack bars at the Great Neck Park District. Weekends a must! $18-per hour. Please contact Joy at 516-826-4540.

SITUATION WANTED

A HOME HEALTH CARE

AIDE: Irish trained woman with 10 years experience and excellent checkable references available. Honest and reliable. Licensed driver with own transportation.

Please call 516-383-7150

AIDE/CARE GIVER:

Caring, Efficient, Reliable. Available FT Live In nights & weekends to care for your sick or elderly loved one. Cooking, tidy up, personal grooming, administer medications. 15years experience. References available.

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EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

ELDER CARE Experienced woman seeks position to care for the elderly live in or live out. Certified HHA. CPR experience.

Excellent references. Please call 516-800-6442

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOVENAS/PRAYERS

OH MOST BEAUTIFUL FLOWER OF MOUNT CARMEL, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God; Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me 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 succour 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 prayer in your hands (say three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. (MAK)

MARKETPLACE

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MARKETPLACE

INVITED ESTATE SALES

BY TRACY JORDAN

is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now!

Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week!

Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516-279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcom ing Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions! WANTED TO BUY LOOKING

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PASSION FOR SENIORS

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A meatless meal to enjoy during Lent

Herby Rice and Black Bean Salsa Burrito Bowl

The forty days and nights of Lent are a time for reflection and anticipation of Easter’s arrival. Fasting, which for many Christians includes skipping meat and animal products each Friday, also is part of the preparation. Individuals who are unaccustomed to going meat-free may need to expand their culinary repertoire to ensure Friday meals continue to be filling and tasty.

This recipe for “Herby Rice and Black Bean Salsa Burrito Bowl” from Niki Webster’s “Rainbow Bowls” (Sourcebooks) is full of protein-rich beans, flavorful herbed rice and satisfying avocado. It can be enjoyed as a quick and easy, meatless lunch or dinner.

Serves 2

Splash of olive oil

100 grams sugar snap peas

1 avocado, flesh sliced

For the rice:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

250 grams cooked basmati rice

Juice of 1⁄2 lime

1 teaspoon maple syrup

40 grams fresh herbs, such as coriander, flat-leaf parsely, mint and/or dill, chopped Sea salt and black pepper

1) To make the rice, add 1 tablespoon of the oil to a frying pan with the cooked rice, lime juice and maple syrup. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes on a medium heat, then add the fresh herbs. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and season with salt and pepper. Set aside and keep warm.

2) Set a small frying pan or griddle pan on a medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and the

For the black bean salsa:

240 grams canned black beans, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato paste

100 grams cherry tomatoes, chopped

Juice of 1⁄2 lime

4 tablespoons fresh mint, shredded

1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt flakes

Pinch of chili flakes

sugar snaps and fry for 2 to 3 minutes until a little charred.

3) To make the black bean salsa, add all the ingredients to a bowl and stir to combine.

4) To serve, load two bowls with the rice mixture, black bean salsa, sugar snaps, and sliced avocado.

Love to write?

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.

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 reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

Seniors invited to join “Golden Tones” chorus

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the ‘Golden Tones Entertainment Group’ is returning to the North Massapequa Community Center this February and invite new members. This senior chorus is a social group open to Town residents over the age of 60 who have an interest in singing, dancing or entertaining. Anyone 60 and over is welcome, a great singing voice is not required to participate in

this social group.

“We hear from choir members all the time how singing together lifts their spirits while providing great enjoyment and entertainment,” said Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “The Golden Tones Chorus provides a creative and social outlet for seniors to make new friends and bond over their love of music. Join us today!”

Meetings will be held every Friday,

beginning on Friday, February 2, at 10 a.m. at the North Massapequa Community Center, located at 214 North Albany Avenue in North Massapequa. There are two planned shows, a Spring Show as well as a Holiday Show, sched-

uled to be performed at the North Massapequa Community Center.

Senior citizens interested in joining the Golden Tones should call (516) 797-7916 for more information.

Central Boulevard students spread winter wishes

The snowflakes had positive words, phrases and wishes written on them.

To help spread positivity and kindness throughout the Bethpage community, Central Boulevard Elementary School students recently created their own paper snowflakes with positive messages as part of a schoolwide Thoughtful Thursday activity. The students wrote positive words, phrases and wishes for the New Year and delivered their winter creations to local businesses.

The kindness snowflakes are currently on display at the Bethpage Public Library, Broadway Stage Door Dance Studio, Central Avenue Deli, Ciminelli’s Pizzeria, Long Island Smoothie Café, Moscato Bakery and Norma’s School of Dance. The project was a great way for students to spread some light throughout the town.

Photos courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

Students from Central Boulevard Elementary School created kindness snowflakes.

Youth vocational training program to be offered

The Town of Oyster Bay will be partnering with United Way of Long Island to launch YouthBuild, a program designed to help young adults between the ages 16 and 24 learn vocational skills that will lead to meaningful employment and success. YouthBuild participants split their time between the vocational training work site and the classroom, where they can earn their high school diploma or equivalency degree, and prepare for

postsecondary training opportunities including college, apprenticeships, and employment.

“I’m very proud to announce that the Town of Oyster Bay will be partnering with United Way of Long Island to provide this extraordinary opportunity for young individuals, who may have faced previous barriers to success, to attain an education that will lead to gainful employment within our communities,”

said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “YouthBuild not only offers vocational programs for in demand industries such as construction, health care, information technology, and hospitality, but it also includes community service and civic engagement so students may share their valuable perspectives with elected officials and community leaders.”

YouthBuild is now accepting applications for the Class of 2024. Classes

Love to write?

will begin on March 3, 2024. This program is open to individuals between the ages of 16 and 24 who reside in the Town of Oyster Bay, the Town of North Hempstead, or the City of Glen Cove.

Please visit www.unitedwayli.org/ youthbuild-long-island for more information, and to learn more about this exceptional employment and training program, or call (516) 485-5000 ext. 1352.

We’re looking for writers in our community to compose ar ticles 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.

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 reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

Broadway Stage Door Dance Studio displayed Central Boulevard’s kindness snowflakes in their building.

Free music concerts at local libraries

The Town of Oyster Bay's Distinguished Artists Concert Series will continue through May 2024 with free performances at local libraries throughout the Town.

“The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Councilman Tom Hand.

Scheduled performances for February and March include:

• Gathering Time on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Jericho Public Library – Performing music for all ages from traditional folk to classic rock. All welcome/free tickets required, tickets available at library on February 5th. For more information call Jericho Public Library, (516) 935-6790.

• Carlson & Grant on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at the Syosset Public Library – Performing solos and duets from the nostalgic past. Registration is free and required. Visit: https:// syosset.librarycalendar.com/ events/month and select the date of the concert and register. Registration starts February 9.

• Mambo Loco on Sunday, March 10, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Jericho Public Library – Performing the best

of Old-school Latin and Latin jazz. All welcome/free tickets required, tickets available at library on February 22. For more information, call Jericho Public Library, (516) 935-6790.

• One More Once Jazz Ensemble on Sunday, March 17, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. at the Farmingdale Public Library – Performing all genres of big band music.

• Danny Kean & Friends on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at the PlainviewOld Bethpage Public Library – Performing blues, jazz, R&B rock & everything in between. All welcome/free tickets required, tickets available at library on March 11. For more information, call PlainviewOld Bethpage Public Library, (516) 938-0077.

• The Brooklyn Bards on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethpage Public Library – Experience the deep lyrics and rich melodies of traditional Irish music.

The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For the full concert schedule and further information, please call (516) 797-7900 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/CAPA.

Registration for adult ed

Dive into a world of learning and connection. PlainviewOld Bethpage Central School District’s Adult Continuing Education Program is back and better than ever. Registration is open until Feb. 26. Explore a plethora of vibrant courses — from Arts & Crafts to Finance, Sports, Fitness & more. With classes starting March 4, embark on an enriching journey. Unleash your creativity, sharpen your skills, and forge lasting bonds within our dynamic community. Join us in embracing the spirit of lifelong learning. Visit the POB Adult Education website for details.

Registration can be completed via Arbiter Sports (formerly Family ID). Create an account or login at www.tinyurl.com/

pobadulted. Any questions can be directed to the Adult Education office at 516-434-3123 or email Sherri Winick at swinick@pobschools.org.

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION Notice of Formation of EGYCAST, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/04/2023. 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 Mike Elmoraly: 14 Queens Street, Syosset, NY 11791. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE N

OTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE AS SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I LLC, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007AQ1, Plaintiff, vs GEORGE HUDAK, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 10, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 170 North 3rd Street, Bethpage, NY 11714. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Bethpage in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 46, Block 44 and Lots 44-46. Approximate amount of judgment is $594,380.56 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 8116/2013. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale. John Kennedy, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff

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

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Lehman XS Trust Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-2, Plaintiff AGAINST Ana D. Salmeron, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 3, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 19, 2024 at 3:00PM, premises known as 72 East Avenue, Hicksville, NY 11801. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Hicksville, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 45, BLOCK: 64, LOT: 244. Approximate amount of judgment $552,770.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #004593/2016. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov/Admi n/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-078914-F00 79315

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST 2017-1, Plaintiff, vs. MIRNA BENITEZ, ET AL., Defendant(s).

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

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 11, 2019, an Order for Extension of Time to Conduct Foreclosure Sale duly entered on November 27, 2019 and an Order for Extension of Time to Conduct Foreclosure Sale duly entered on December 18, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 141 West Avenue, Hicksville, NY 11801. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 45, Block 46 and Lot 289. Approximate amount of judgment is $907,661.64 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #005314/2015. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Barton Slavin, Esq., Referee

Greenspoon Marder, 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Friday, February 23, 2024

LEGAL NOTICES

COUNTY SALE N

COUNTY U.S. BANK ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR IN BANK OF NATIONAL TRUSTEE BY MERGER NATIONAL TRUSTEE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS STEARNS ASSET SECURITIES I LLC, SERIES 2007GEORGE Defendant(s). Judgment of Sale duly 10, 2020, I, Referee will auction on the north side of County Supreme Supreme Court 11501 on 2:00 p.m., 170 North Bethpage, NY certain plot, land, with the improvements situate, lying Bethpage in the Bay, County of New York, 44 and Lots amount of $594,380.56 plus Premises will provisions of Index # foreclosure on the north Courthouse, COVID-19 safety followed at the proper social cannot be there are other concerns, the Referee will John Kennedy, Eckert Seamans LLC, 10 Bank White Plains, Attorneys for Directory the right the job!

Barbara Bucovetsky Sells Homes!

There Must Be A Reason...

“Barbara guided us through every step of the way in the process of selling our house. She made it seem almost easy. She even recommended very competent movers who also packed for us. Thank you.”

— Carol & Mel B.

“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 down in a challenging situation. We are grateful for Barbara’s expertise and commitment.”

— Joan & Randy R.

“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.”

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