Mid-Island Times (3/15/24)

MacArthur junior wins prestigious competition School fundraiser held for Bethpage girl battling cancer

BY GARY SIMEONE

It has been a whirlwind of a month for Melody Hong, a junior student at MacArthur High School. The precocious sixteen year-old earned first-place honors in the annual Long Island Brain Bee Science competition, which took place at Hofstra University earlier this month. The competition exposes high school students to studies of the human brain and aims to motivate them

to pursue careers in neurology, neurosurgery, psychology and neuroscience.

Hong said that she entered the nationwide competition last year at the request of her science research teachers.

“They knew I had a strong interest in biology and computational biology in particular, and thought I’d be a perfect candidate for this type of competition,” said Hong. “I ended up placing in third place last year

in the Long Island region and that really motivated me to try again this year.”

Hong’s perseverance paid off and after completing the necessary criteria for the competition, she earned first-place honors this time around.

The Long Island Brain Bee took place on March 2nd at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, located on the campus of Hofstra Univer-

See page 10

BY GARY SIMEONE

It was a special day on Thursday, February 15, at Bethpage High School as a little girl from the community was honored for her bravery by the students. Lia Esposito, a first grader at Charles Campagne elementary schoolwho was recently diagnosed with cancer, spoke to students about her battle with the disease and it’s impact on her life.

“Lia has been amazing throughout this whole process,” said Josephine Esposito, Lia’s mother. “Even with this devastating diagnosis and over twenty-five weeks of intense chemotherapy, she’s still dancing, doing cartwheels, full of energy and overall happy. We’re praying that by the end of December she’ll be done with the chemo and everything will be clear on all her scans.”

Chris DeStefano, an art teacher and SPEC (Students Putting an End to Cancer) adviser at Bethpage High School, said that when the club learned about Lia’s story, they immediately wanted to get involved.

“We held a meeting about what we should do for her and came up with an idea for a T-shirt fundraiser in the district to raise money for local charities” said DeStefano. “Our club made these shirts, which were sold to members of the community, and we ended up raising over sixteen hundred dollars.”

All of the proceeds that were raised through the fundraising campaignwere donated to Lia’s family to help with hospital expenses and to organizations such as the American Cancer Society and Cohen’s Children Medical Center.

“We ended giving a thousand dollars to Lia’s family to help with medical bills and the other six-hundred dollars was donated to ACS and Cohen’ Children’s Hospital,” said DeStefano.

Lia, who is a bright young girl, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in June 2023 after complaining of stomach pains and discomfort.

“Being a registered nurse, my alarm bells went off right away because I knew something wasn’t right,” said Esposito. We ended up taking her to Cohen’s hospital to have imaging and tests done and that’s when we heard the news from the doctors that no parent wants to hear. Your child has cancer.”

See page 10

General Douglas MacArthur High School junior Melody Hong won first place in the prestigious Long Island Brain Bee. She was joined by her science teachers Mr. Zausin, left, and Dr. Friedman, right.

Photo courtesy Levittown Public Schools

TOB seeks nominations for Women of Distinction program

The Town of Oyster Bay is now accepting nominations for the Town’s 2024 Women of Distinction Program. During Women’s History Month, throughout the month of March, residents are invited to nominate extraordinary women who have made a difference in their communities.

“Each year, the Town has the honor of recognizing women who go above and beyond to improve the lives of those around them through our Women of Distinction Program,” said Town Councilwoman Michele Johnson, who serves as Chairwoman of the Women of Distinction Committee. “If you know a special woman who helps make your community a better place to live, we invite you to nominate her to be a 2024 Town of Oyster Bay Woman of Distinction.”

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino added, “We are proud to recognize women in our Town and invite residents to sub-

mit nominations of those who make a difference and enrich the lives of others.  We look forward to sharing their stories and recognizing their efforts to make our community, families and Town a better place to live, work and raise a family.”

Women of Distinction will be recognized at a special awards ceremony hosted by the Town Board in May.  Nominations may be submitted for any achievement or honorable cause performed by the nominee.  The Town seeks to recognize individuals for their contributions to the arts, education, environment, athletics, community or civic service, volunteerism or business. Honorees must live or work in the Town of Oyster Bay.

To submit a nomination for the Women of Distinction Awards Program, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ women or call (516) 624-6380 for an application.

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.

Honored for 50 years of service

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino recently joined with the Hicksville Fire Department in honoring Commissioner Robert “Bob” Dwyer for an amazing 50 years of service. Since 1972, Bob has been a true example of service to his community and has served with true distinction and great honor. Supervisor Saladino congratulated Commissioner Dwyer on this incredible milestone. Supervisor Saladino thanked Commissioner Dwyer for his volunteer service and presented him with a citation, the Town’s highest honor.

Local artists invited to showcase at “Art in the Park”

The Town of Oyster Bay invites local artists and artisans to display and sell their hand-crafted goods at a special day of “Art in the Park.” Applications are now available for the event which will be held on Saturday, May 18, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach in Oyster Bay.

“Art in the Park offers local artists and artisans an amazing opportunity to showcase their best work for the public and gain local notoriety,” said Town Councilman Steve Labriola. “Art in the Park is certain to attract hundreds of families and seniors as the event also features live music, food trucks and activities for kids.”

Participants must be 18 or older, and

display and sell only their original pieces. No commercial or mass-produced items are permitted. Artists must supply their own 10x10 canopy and additional items required for their space. Additional details and associated costs are provided on the application, available on the Town’s website.

Art in the Park is run by the Town’s Department of Community & Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts Division. The event focuses on hand-crafted goods, including ceramics, watercolors, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, sculpture and more. Artist applications available on the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/capa or by calling (516) 797-7932.

Dutch Lane students recognized for teamwork Toddler Sports Program for Spring 2024

Students at Dutch Lane Elementary School in Hicksville were recently celebrated as Physical Education Star Students for the month of February. These students are being recognized for excellent teamwork, always working hard, being prepared and being motivated to do their best. Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

The Town of Oyster Bay's Toddler Sports Program will return this spring, beginning April 1. This 6-week program offers sports classes at the Hicksville Athletic Center for children ages 3 and 4.

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

The Toddler Sports Program begins April 1 and is 6 weeks in duration. Residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take place on:

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

Hicksville; and

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

Registration will take place ONLINE through the Parks Portal available at oysterbaytown.com/portal on March 4, at 9:00 a.m. Space is limited- first come, first serve. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity.

Each class is approximately 50 minutes. The cost of the program is $75 per child who is a Town resident, and $90 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. The child’s birth certificate and a tax or utility bill will be required to validate age and proof of residency. A guardian must be present during the class. The child MUST be 3 years old by the start of the program.

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

Do you have a ser vice to adver tise?

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

Terrific Kids at Salk Middle School

On February 15, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads joined Legislator John Ferretti and the Levittown Kiwanis Club for the Levittown Kiwanis Terrific Kids Ceremony at Jonas E. Salk Middle School in Levittown. Senator Rhoads congratulated the students on being thoughtful, kind, and caring individuals — underscoring how the Terrific Kids program serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness and good character can make a big difference in the world.

own hiring assistants for summer youth program

The Town of Oyster Bay has openings available for tennis assistants in the Youth Tennis Program, held this summer at local Town parks. Those interested must be 16 years of age or older to apply.

lives of others.”

Tennis assistants must be 16 or older and have at least 1–2 years of experience participating on a tennis team. Tennis assistants must be available for the duration of the program, which runs Mondays through Thursdays, July 1 through August 15, between the hours of 3:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

“This fun summer job is ideal for a tennis-loving community teen 16 or older looking to build their resume,” said Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “Town tennis assistants have a lot of fun while receiving hands-on experience and making a difference in the

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

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Friday, March 15, at 10:00 a.m.

Simply Stronger with Balance (VIRTUAL)

Instructor: Mindy Vasta

Handheld weights, a resistance band and ball are utilized to help you improve strength, flexibility and coordination. A balance segment is incorporated into the program to enhance posture, core strength and promote proper alignment of all muscle groups. This is a Zoom-only program for adults 18+. Seven sessions. Registration required. Register at syossetlibrary. org.

Friday, March 15, at 10:30 a.m.

Natural Spring Cleaning (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Janice Imbrogno

Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your home. In this class, you will learn why it is important to eliminate toxic chemicals from your home and how to replace them with effective non-toxic cleaning products. Registration needed.  Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, March 15, at 2:00 p.m.

Gold Coast Gardens (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Monica Randall

At the turn of the 20th century, there were hundreds of Gold Coast mansions that were surrounded by miles of formal gardens replicating those at Versailles and the Grand Palaces of Europe. This illustrated program will take you on a tour of these spectacular gardens here on Long Island. Registration needed.  Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, March 15, at 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Retro Gaming Night (IN-PERSON)

Stop by the first floor of the library after-hours for an evening of retro arcade and board games.  There’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy. Hosted by LI-Retro Gaming and Master Games.

Sunday, March 17, at 1:00 p.m.

Concert: The Day Trippers (IN-PERSON)

Performers: The Day Trippers

Let's come together and celebrate the music of The Beatles with The Day Trippers! Join us for an exciting performance as we sing and dance to all of our Fab Four favorites. Registration required. To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Tuesday, March 19, at 11:00 a.m.

Morning Mystery Book Discussion (IN-PERSON)

Join Sonia Grgas, Reference Librarian, for a discussion of the New York Times bestselling novel “Magpie

Murders” by Anthony Horowitz. No registration needed.

Tuesday, March 19, at 6:30 p.m.

Mediterranean Cooking Class (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Naela Zeidan

Learn how to make beef and veggie pockets, baba ganoush roasted eggplant dip with garlic and tahini paste, and Naela’s middle eastern salad and rice pudding dessert.  Enjoy tasting at the end of demonstration. Fee: $5. Registration needed.  Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Thursday, March 21, at 2:00 p.m.

Steven Spielberg & “Schindler’s List” (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Jack Schnur, retired video editor for CBS

The program will focus on how Spielberg was inspired to make  “Schindler’s List” with interviews with him, members of his family and cast members. Some clips of this film as well as some others will be shown. No registration needed.

Friday, March 22, at 10:00 a.m.

Simply Stronger with Balance (VIRTUAL)

Instructor: Mindy Vasta

Handheld weights, a resistance band and ball are utilized to help you improve strength, flexibility and coordination. A balance segment is incorporated into the program to enhance posture, core strength and promote proper alignment of all muscle groups. This is a Zoom-only program for adults 18+. Seven sessions. Registration required. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, March 22, at 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Mosaic Heart Class (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Gabriella Grama, mosaic artist

During this workshop you will have the opportunity to explore the captivating world of mosaics and unleash your artistic potential. The focal point of our workshop is a whimsical and vibrant red heart mosaic project that will capture your imagination. Experience artists or beginners are welcome. You will leave with a beautiful red heart mosaic that you can display or use as a gift.  Fee: $5. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, March 22, 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.

Upcoming Events at Jericho Public Library

Friday, March 15

2 p.m. : VIRTUAL : Great Performers with Marc Courtade: Anne Bancroft: Tough & VulnerableAnne Bancroft was noted for her work on stage, in films and television during her 50-year career. She eagerly sought out parts as diverse as Annie Sullivan in  “ The Miracle Worker ”  and Mrs. Robinson in  “ The Graduate. ”  She repeatedly won praise as well as an Academy Award, two Tonys and two Emmy Awards. Director Arthur Penn simply put it this way: “More happens in her face in 10 seconds than happens in most women’s faces in 10 years.” This talk will celebrate the life and career of an extraordinary woman and performer.

Monday, March 18

7 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Downsizing Your Home with Anna Beigelman, Your Lifetime Realtor/Exit Premier Realty - Downsizing is trending on Long Island. You may be a retiree, an empty nester or a baby boomer and it may come to a point where your current home is no longer right for your needs. Join Anna when she explains why you should or shouldn’t downsize, your options on when and where to go and much more.  Bring your questions!

Tuesday, March 19

10:30 a.m.: Science of Music -

Boom, tap, smack, cha-cha-cha! Listen to the sounds and rhythm of the science of music. Children feel, hear, and see the vibrations that help create music in this hands-on exploration.

2 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Brian Rose Presents...Carl Reiner & Mel Brooks: The Grandmasters of American Comedy - For more than seven decades, Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks made America laugh –either through their remarkable solo careers or their legendary partnership. Whether together or apart, they were giants of American comedy, who basically conquered every field they entered, whether television, movies, Broadway, or records. This presentation will examine their extraordinary achievements, beginning with their work together on “ Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows ”  and their creation of “ The 2000 Year Old Man, ” to their individual accomplishments as writers, directors and performers.

7 p.m.: Teens: Fabric Garland - Create a festive DIY fabric garland to add texture and fun to your room decor. This fun and easy project can be customized to match any style! There will be lots of ribbon and fabric to pick from.

Friday, March 22

10:30 a.m.: Art Explorers - Start your child’s art education with this simple introduction to art! Dress for a mess!

“Shed the Meds” event at Syosset Public Library

Make the secure, safe and environmentally friendly disposal of unwanted medications part of your spring cleaning routine with Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker, (D - Plainview) who is partnering with the Nassau County Police Department’s Second Precinct to host a “Shed The Meds” event at the Syosset Public Library on Tuesday, March 26.

From 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., residents will have the opportunity to securely dispose of unwanted and/or expired prescription medications and patches, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, drug samples and predications at the library under the supervision of Second Precinct officers. Needles/ sharps, aerosol cans, thermometers,

ointments, hydrogen peroxide, inhalers, biohazardous materials and/or medications from business will not be accepted at the event.

“This event empowers our residents to protect the environment and prevent drug abuse and misuse by making it as easy as possible to securely dispose of unwanted and expired medication,” Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. “I encourage everyone to take a look at their medicine cabinets as you do your spring cleaning and take advantage of this important service.”

Residents can contact the Second Precinct at 516-573-6200 or Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 with questions.

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Battle of the Classes returns to Bethpage High School

Bethpage High School students put their game faces on for the school’s annual Battle of the Classes on March 1. This exciting school tradition allows the freshmen, sophomore, junior and senior classes to go head-to-head in a friendly competition. Bethpage High School faculty members joined in on the fun as well with their own team.

The students and teachers participated in different activities which were judged by high school staff to determine the ultimate winner. Each grade level followed a specific theme this year: the F.B.I. Freshmen, the Superbowl Sophomores, Jacked Juniors and Spiderman Seniors. The faculty channeled the popular Apple TV series, “Ted Lasso,” as the Ted

Participants competed in a penny war for charity, a hallway decorating contest and a banner contest. They also performed a skit, showcased their best dance moves in a six-person dance crew competition and competed against each other in games such as musical chairs, tic-tac-toe, tug-of-war and scooter speedway.

It was a fierce competition as the students and teachers worked together with their teammates, demonstrated their creativity and showed their school spirit. The seniors were crowned the winners, followed by the sophomore class, the faculty, the freshmen and the juniors.

Bethpage High School sophomores were ready to show the school their Super Bowlinspired performance.

The senior class and the faculty went head-to-head in a game of tic-tac-toe.

Bethpage High School juniors with their Jacked Juniors banner.

Bethpage High School seniors cheered on their team during Battle of the Classes.

The F.B.I. Freshmen performed during Battle of the Classes.

Lasso Teachers.

Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

New student initiative at Bethpage school encourages positive traits

Nineteen students from Charles Campagne Elementary School were named Golden Eagles of the Month for exemplifying January’s character trait of “Responsibility.”Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

BY GARY SIMEONE

Character traits are what defines us as people, and for the remainder of the school-year at Charles Campagne Elementary School, they will be the focus of a new student Character Education initiative. The Golden Eagle of the Month, which was put together by elementary school teacher Adrienne Sodano, is meant to exemplify positive and rewarding behavior amongst the student body.

“In January we started a new Character Education initiative called Golden Eagle of the Month,” said

Sodano. “Each month of the school year is assigned a particular trait that students will try to exemplify to be chosen as the Golden Eagle of the Month.”

She said that each trait that is chosen per month will be positive human characteristics like strength, courage, wisdom and self confidence.

The new program was introduced in January via a kickoff assembly in the school’s gymnasium.

“We introduced the program to the students with a fun video with the whole staff and a visit from our school districts Bethpage Eagle. Members of

The

our staff put together a fun video and skit to introduce the January monthly trait, which was responsibility.”

She added that during the live-skit, the teachers played both the teacher and student role, and acted out responsible behavior, like putting books away, completing homework and following directions.

Sodano, who is a member of the district’s Character Education Committee and student government advisor, said she came up with the idea from the Middle School.

“They have this initiative for stu-

dents called the Energy Bus, which is based on the concept of always staying positive and overcoming challenges that you’re faced with. I thought it would be a fun idea to introduce a similar concept to kids at the elementary school level.”

As part of the Golden Eagle of the Month program, teachers from every class in the school will choose one student as Golden Eagle of the Month.

The students who are rewarded the honor will receive a certificate and be entered into a raffle to win a gift card from the PTA

Free music concerts planned for 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 Hand. “I encourage residents to take advantage of these wonderful performances

offered by the Town for free at local libraries.”

Scheduled performances for February and March include:

• 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 Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library, (516) 938-0077.

• The Brooklyn Bards on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethpage Public Library –

Love to write?

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.

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

district's eagle mascot was a part of the kickoff assembly.

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NASSAU QUICKEN LOANS INC.

Plaintiff, Against LAWRENCE COSTA, STEPHANIE COSTA, ET AL, Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 10/18/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 4/2/2024 at 3:00PM, premises known as 5 Washington Avenue, Hicksville, New York 11801, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being At Hicksville, Town of Oyster Bay, County Of Nassau And State Of New York.

Section 12 Block 321 Lot 6

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $348,971.62 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 15-004170

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 2/6/2024 File Number: 15-312598 CA

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE (CWALT 2004-2CB), Plaintiff, v.

JASON FELS, ET AL, Defendants.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on August 16, 2023, I, Thomas A. Abbate, Esq., Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on April 02, 2024 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501 located at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, NY, at 2:00PM the premises described as follows:

17 Bunker Lane Hicksville, NY 11801

1746 470 39

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 001382/2017 in the amount of $556,142.15 plus interest and costs. Any purchaser at sale will bid on the property subject to any demolition order issued by the Town of Oyster Bay now or in the future. The property will be sold "as is" at the time of sale, whether the structure still stands and improves the premises or whether the structure has been demolished. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff

500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072

School fundraiser held for Bethpage girl battling cancer

From page 1

She said the doctors needed to do surgery to remove her left kidney and the massive tumor that was growing on it.

“The surgery and the whole ordeal was very hard for us. We spent nine days in the hospital after the surgery to help her recover and get her started on the chemotherapy treatments.

My little girl has been amazing through this whole process. Nothing is going to stop Lia and she continues to be an inspiration to all of us.”

MacArthur junior wins prestigious competition

From page 1

Hong said the competition included a written test with fill in the blank samples and a structure laboratory portion.

“The laboratory part involved samples of human brain tissue that each student needed to analyze. It was all pretty comprehensive but at the same time a lot of fun to be a part of.”

Hong was one of three students from MacArthur at who competed in the Brain Bee. She ended up earning first place honors over multiple students from several school districts across Long Island.

As an award for placing first, Hong earned a bid to the national competition, which will take place in Orlando, Florida on April 19-21st. She will be representing Long Island against regional chapters from across the country.

She said she will spend next month and a half preparing herself for the rigors of the upcoming competition.

“The national competition will be a lot more difficult and intensive than the regional,” said Hong. “The scope of content will be greater with a bigger focus in the area of neurophysiology.”

Joe Sheehan, principal of

MacArthur High School, said he was very proud of Melody’s ambitious nature and her perseverance.

“She has all the characteristics, skills and traits that are paramount to success in life,” said Sheehan. “Melody is an amazing young lady who is self-motivated any very accomplished at such a young age.

Whatever she sets her mind too I know she’ll be great at.”

Aside from being an accomplished student in the field of academics, Hong is also a talented musician who performs in her schools orchestra and Tri-M Music Honors Society.

Charles Campagne first grader Lia Esposito (middle) with her mother Giuseppina Esposito (right) and sister Giana Esposito (left) with a check from Bethpage High School’s SPEC Club.

Hicksville schools celebrate P.S. I Love You Day

During February, students and teachers throughout Hicksville Public School District recently took a stand against bullying by celebrating P.S. I Love You Day. In support of the day students and teachers wore purple and students participated in kindness themed activities. This year’s theme, “Love is meant to be Given.” P.S. I Love You Day is a non-profit dedicated to eradicating the stigma around mental health. Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

See what's happening at your library!

From classes to lectures and concerts to movie screenings, there's never a dull day at your local library! Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, all for free or cheap!

Columbiettes celebrate Valentines Day

On February 18, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads attended the Columbiettes Valentine Breakfast in Levittown. It was a morning filled with delicious food, heartwarming conversations, and the joy of giving back. Senator Rhoads expressed his thanks for all that the Columbiettes do for the community.

4 Days in Paris: Wandering the Marais District Highlights Day 3

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

On the third and last full day of my stay in Paris, I could have planned a visit to Versailles, but I just want a day to wander without a plan. Still, I have on my list several places that I keep seeing street signs for in this fascinating Marais district where I have cleverly chosen a hotel.

The Marais District is a colorful combination of the venerable and contemporary, trendy cafes, a mélange of architecture and historic, heritage and cultural sites, all packed into a relatively small (walkable) area. It is particularly wonderful to wander because the narrow, winding streets are a bit of a maze, and you keep coming upon architectural jewels – even a medieval tower – that span the centuries, trendy cafes and shops, street art, and historic places, especially sites that recall that the Marais was once a Jewish neighborhood. The main thoroughfare is Rue Vielle du Temple, and another is Rue du Temple. I had already come upon the Memorial de la Shoah, and have yet to find the Square du Temple-Elie Wiesel, le Carreau du Temple, a former clothes market that was transformed into a cultural center in 2014, or the Jardin Anne Frank.

I go in search of Place des Vosges, described as the oldest public square in Paris and an “early urban planning marvel”.

I get lost and instead come upon Parvis des 260 Enfants – a plaza where a marker recalls 260 Jewish school children were deported and murdered in the Holocaust. Behind

Paris’ Marais District is a colorful combination of the venerable and contemporary, trendy cafes, a mélange of architecture and street art, and historic, heritage and cultural sites © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

a locked gate is the “Ecole Primaire Commudej Garcons Israelites Mode Mutuel.”

I finally find the Places des Vosges – which strikes me as reminiscent of Gramercy Park in Manhattan with townhouses all around. It was built for a king for jousting and festivals – the townhouses came later. It isn’t what I expected.

Though I have on my mental wish list to visit the Victor Hugo Museum, I don’t realize that it is actually one of these townhouses on Places des Vosges. (Years ago, I actually visited Victor Hugo’s “home in exile” on the quaint Channel Island of Guernsey and found it fabulous). But I get distracted and forget to look for it when I leave the square.

This is a huge regret – “Discover the private world of Victor Hugo. Get to know the man, the visionary artist, the proactive thinker and, of course, the writer of genius,” the museum promises. The museum incorporates

the apartment that Victor Hugo rented from 1832 to 1848 is located on the 2nd floor of 6, Place Royale (now Place des Vosges). Its layout takes you through his life by means of the furnishings, objects and works of art that he created himself, owned, or are related to his writing.

While living in this apartment, Hugo wrote some of his major works:  Mary Tudor,  Ruy Blas,  Les Burgraves [The Commanders],  Les Chants du crépuscule [Songs of Twilight],  Les Voix intérieures [Inner Voices],  Les Rayons et les Ombres [Beams and Shadows], a large part of  Les Misérables, and the beginning of  The Legend of the Ages and Contemplations

(Booking in advance is not required but is recommended. Admission to the museum’s permanent collections is free; an admission is charged for special exhibitions.)

Maison de Victor Hugo, place des Vosges, 6 place des Vosges, 75004 Paris,

Phone : 01 42 72 10 16; open 10-6, Tuesday-Sunday, https://www.maisonsvictorhugo.paris.fr/en/paris/museum/visit-apartment-today

(Add to my regret: I discover too late that in the Marais district is an Henri Cartier-Bresson Foundation, celebrating the ground-breaking photographer and founder of Magnum and photography, at 79 Rue des Archives, 75003 Paris, www.henricartierbresson.org)

Musee Carnavalet

But leaving the Square in the opposite direction from Maison de Victor Hugo (why I didn’t see it), I happen upon the Musee Carnavalet, dedicated to recounting the history of Paris and its inhabitants. It is absolutely fabulous – for the story, the artifacts, the art it presents, and it answers the question I had been wondering about: how Paris, as fabulous a city as it is, came to be.

The museum occupies two neighboring historic mansions: the Hôtel Carnavalet, was purchased by the Municipal Council of Paris in 1866 and opened to the public in 1880 (the oldest of Paris city museums); and the former Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau which was annexed and opened to the public in 1989. Both are exquisite.

The Carnavalet, which dates from the 16th century, contains stunning furnished rooms from different periods of Paris history, historic objects, and a huge collection of paintings of Paris life depicting the city’s history and development, as well as its notable characters. There is a huge collection of antiques and artifacts from the

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GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

4 Days in Paris: Wandering the Marais District Highlights Day 3

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French Revolution that bring this era to life in your mind (I note a portrait of Ben Franklin); from the Second Republic of 1848, and the siege of the commune in 1870 (the era depicted in Hugo’s “Les Miserables”). The horror of the Nazi occupation is also represented.

You come to a grand room that looks like the 19th century art salons the painters would exhibit in, with its walls filled with works by artists.

“At the crossroads of archaeology and history, the decorative arts and fine arts, urban history and social anthropology, the museum provides the keys to understanding the history of this unique city-capital-metropolis.”

It houses both well-known masterpieces along with little known treasures that tell the complex story of Paris, from its origins to present day, spanning 8,500 years and holds a mind-boggling 625.000 objects, presented in 85 permanent exhibition rooms

You need to spend at least two hours here. (Tuesday-Sunday, 10-6)

Musée Carnavalet, 23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris, http://carnavalet.paris.fr/en Carnavalet Museum, which proves a highlight of my Paris stay and the best reason for just wandering around, is one of the 14 City of Paris’s museums that have been incorporated since January 1, 2013, in the public institution Paris Musees. Others include: Catacombes de Paris, Crypte archéologique de l’Ile de la Cité, Maison de Balzac, Maison de

Victor Hugo - Hauteville House (and in Guernsey), Petit Palais City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts, Musée d›Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, Musée Bourdelle, Musée Cernuschi, Museum of Asian Art, Musée Cognacq-Jay, Musée Galliera, Museum of the General Leclerc and the Paris’ Liberation –  Jean Moulin Museum, Musée de la Vie Romantique, Zadkine Museum

The Musée Picasso-Paris

I set out next for the The Musée Picasso-Paris which is also in the Marais district – housed incongruously (considering Picasso’s art) in another classic historic mansion. The museum makes the claim to “the world’s richest public collection on Picasso” with 297 paintings, 368 sculptures and 3D works, 200,000 archived items, 92 illustrated books by Picasso. It also boasts a collection of 50 pieces of furniture by Diego Giacommetti.

Musée National Picasso-Paris, 5 rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris, https://www. museepicassoparis.fr/en

Museum of Jewish Art & History

From the Picasso Museum, I find my way to the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaïsme (Museum of Jewish Art & History).

As I walk up Rue de Place Republic to Rue de Temple, I find a marker that says 76,000 Jews were deported by Nazis to concentration camps; 2000 returned. Among those who were deported were

the residents of 71 Rue de Temple, a 17th century historic mansion which today houses the Jewish Museum (mahJ), and when you first go in, there is a sort of tribute to them.

The museum traces Jewish artistic and cultural heritage, focusing on the history of the Jews in France since the Middle Ages to the 20th century, and evoking the communities of Europe and North Africa. Its collection, which it boasts is one of the finest in the world, comprises religious objects, manuscripts, textiles, and archival documents, such as concerning the Dreyfus Affair. (A statue of Dreyfus is in the courtyard at the entrance to the museum).

Special emphasis is given to the Jewish presence in the arts. The museum’s collections include works of art from painters of the School of Paris, Marc Chagall, Kikoine Soutine and Amedeo Modigliani and contemporary artists such as Christian Boltanski and Sophie Calle.

I find the exhibit more about Jewish ritual objects and such, than it is about Jewish history, culture and art – but I am really at a disadvantage in understanding since there are no English translations.

Musée d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaïsme, Hôtel de Saint-Aignan, 71 Rue du Temple, 75003 Paris, France, https:// www.mahj.org

Next I head toward the Place de la Bastille where the notorious Bastille prison once stood, until it was stormed

and destroyed between 14 July 1789 and 14 July 1790 during the French Revolution. No vestige of the infamous prison remains. Instead, the July Column (Colonne de Juillet) commemorating the July Revolution (1830) at the center of the square and the Opera house.

And while the square is now the site of concerts, cafes and nightclubs, it is also often the centerpiece for political demonstrations.

Another square, the Place Royale, which is close to my hotel, Le 20 Prieure Hotel, is also important for France’s history, but today is a place for skateboarders, misting station who seem to be completely unimpressed by the fabulous plaques, reliefs and inscriptions that decorate the statue at its center.

Many of these attractions are included in the Paris Museum Pass, http:// en.parismuseumpass.com/ and Paris Pass (ParisPass.com).

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: Day 4 in Montmartre

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

Long Island Children’s Museum Featuring ‘Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit’ Through May 12

Celebrated children’s author and illustrator Eric Carle is the subject of the newest Long Island Children’s Museum exhibit. “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit”. Rush to see it, since it is only running

through May 12.

Developed by the Pittsburgh Children’s Museum, this is the first North American traveling exhibit for children inspired by the art of Eric Carle.

It is an astonishingly beautiful,

Weave a web with the Very Busy Spider at Long Island Children’s Museum exhibit. “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit” before it closes on May 12 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

clever and engaging play-and-learn exhibit: children step into the pages of Eric Carle’s colorful picture books. His “Very” series, all illustrated in his handpainted tissue paper collage technique, introduces five special insects who take journeys of discovery. Each story is a testament to Eric Carle’s love of nature, his respect for the emotional lives of children, and his recurring themes of friendship, creativity, and the power of imagination.

Each of the centers features a different interactive, immersive activity, that draws on different learning styles:

• Become the Very Hungry Caterpillar as you follow his path

• Weave a web with the Very Busy Spider

• Find your light with the Very Lonely Firefly

• Make the Very Clumsy Click Beetle flip and jump

• Compose a night symphony with the Very Quiet Cricket

• Create artwork using many of Eric Carle’s materials and techniques

• Enjoy a gallery of prints from Eric

Carle’s “Very” book series

The Long Island Children’s Museum is located on Museum Row, 11 Davis Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530, 516-2245800, www.licm.org

Crossword Answers

On St. Patrick’s Day Everyone Is Irish!

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, is upon us and when I spoke with my cousin, Maeve, recently we contemplated which one of us was cooking dinner this year. “It would be nice to have some corned beef and cabbage,” she said and I agreed. We were looking forward to it knowing that our brothers and sisters and their spouses would join us so we decided that I would be the host.

We got talking about Ireland and Maeve and I can talk for hours about that subject. She has visited the Emerald Isle since 1980 and always raves about her trips there. Sometimes she and her friends focus on the big cities and other times they like to stay in the countryside where they talk to the locals and take in the ambiance of the smaller towns.

Most of my ancestors come from County Clare and County Cork but some of Maeve’s relatives come from County Kerry and she loves talking about it. I asked about her trips to Ireland because all these years I’ve heard my relatives talk about Counties Clare and Cork. “Those are nice,” Maeve said, “but what’s great about County Kerry is the Ring of Kerry which has some beautiful views of the countryside and the ocean plus the beach in Caherdaniel is lovely. Caherdaniel is a small town but there’s Derrynane Beach and I really like it.” She also strolled along Derrynane Harbour and enjoyed that.

She likes visiting southwestern Ireland - likes seeing all the wildlife in Killarney National Park. “If you stand still and look closely, you can see the white-tailed eagles, the beautifully colored kingfishers and a herd of red deer,” Maeve said. “Afterwards my friends and I stopped at St. Mary’s Cathedral, just across the way, and that’s well worth seeing.” She adds that her goal is to cruise every road in Ireland but then stops short because she knows that’s hard to do in a few short visits.

Laughing and telling Maeve that she sounded like a travel agent, I said I hadn’t been to Ireland yet but I’m planning a trip there with friends in the fall. My focus will be on Counties Clare and

Cork, I told Maeve, and I hope to stop at the Hall of Records to see what ancestry information I can get on my parents’ sides.

As I make a corned beef and cabbage dinner along with some boiled potatoes and carrots, I’ll have plenty because leftovers on March 18th are warranted. We serve the scrumptious dinner with mustard and some slices of Irish soda bread on the side accompanied by iced tea.

Speaking of eating Irish soda bread, I explained its origination. This filling bread was introduced in Ireland during the Irish potato famine of 1845-1849. Irish soda bread is a dense, unleavened bread made with flour, buttermilk, salt, sugar and baking soda instead of yeast. Before baking the Irish soda bread, a cross was cut on the top with a knife to ward off the devil and protect the household. It was typical in most homes to bake bread daily.

Families lived in isolated farmhouses where kitchens usually had open hearths, not ovens, so the breads were made on griddles or in large threelegged black iron pots over fires. This method resulted in a loaf that was tender and dense. Since it was perishable, it was made every 2 to 3 days and eaten with the main meal, not as dessert. Today the Irish eat it at breakfast with tea, they eat it at lunch with cheese and they also eat it at dinnertime.

In the spirit of the March 17th holiday, I gathered several of my nieces around and described a children’s book I’d seen in the public library a week prior. Called “The Ring of Truth: An Original Irish Tale,” author Teresa Bateman tells the story of Patrick

O’Kelly, a peddler who tells impressive tales.

Patrick makes the mistake of bragging that he can “spout better blarney” than the king of the leprechauns, which causes the king to become upset and give Patrick a ring which will force him to tell the truth. Patrick ends up actually winning a blarney contest in County Donegal by telling the true story of his meeting with the leprechaun king.

Truth is stranger than fiction although my nieces didn’t get what I meant by that. “It’s a good example of Irish storytelling,” I told them and they nodded but seemed quizzical. A minute later five-year-old Vickie laughed because Patrick won the contest although people doubted he would. Six-year-old Ellen thought for a minute then said, “It’s about leprechauns not St. Patrick’s Day but I still like the story.”

Enjoying the St. Patrick’s Day holiday on a special day in winter helps us brighten the cold days but the actual date of March 17 was chosen because it’s a Christian feast day and the day chosen to remember St. Patrick.

The first actual St. Patrick’s Day parade took place in America in 1737 although at the time a few Irish Protestants took a stroll down the middle of a street in Boston to honor their motherland’s patron saint. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade in NYC was in 1762, 14 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and was organized by Irish troops serving in British colonies.

I heard this from a friend in Ireland and thought how perfect it is for St. Patrick’s Day:

“When the Irish stew is bubbling

And the soda bread is hot

And the Irish tea is steeping

In a little Irish pot,

When the room is warm with laughter

And the songs are bright and bold

And there’s poetry and magic

In the stories that are told,

Isn’t it a blessing

Isn’t it just grand

To know the heart and soul

Of you belongs in Ireland.”

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

BY TOM MARGENAU

In my 32 years of experience working for the Social Security Administration and the 27 years I’ve been writing this column, one of the more common complaints I’ve heard from people goes something like this: “I don’t think I am getting the right Social Security benefit amount. It’s less than it should be.” Or like this: “Based on what all my friends are getting, I am sure they figured my benefits incorrectly and they are not paying me enough.” Or sometimes something very blunt like this: “The government is cheating me out of my hard-earned Social Security!”

And here is something interesting: Not once in the past five decades have I heard something like this: “I think Social Security is paying me too much money!” I guess that’s just human nature. People tend to expect the worst (especially when it comes to government services) and/or they believe they are being cheated out of something that everyone else is getting.

Lots of times, this phenomenon is the result of when senior citizens start talking and comparing government benefit amounts. The people getting less than their friends and neighbors inevitably feel as if they have been left holding the short end of the Social Security stick. What they don’t understand is that there are literally dozens of variables that determine the amount of a Social Security check: things like your date of birth, your earnings history, your age when you filed for benefits, any early retirement reductions incurred or any late retirement bonuses earned. And when spousal or widow(er)s benefits are involved, then all those same variables for the husband or wife on whose record benefits are claimed come into play.

People just don’t realize it is a combination all those variables that affect the amount of a Social Security check. Instead, they tend to believe their check is wrong because someone at the Social Security Administration messed things up.

Readers who follow this column know that I have often been critical of incorrect information sometimes given by employees of the SSA and of some of the services provided by the organization as a whole. But I can tell you there is one thing they are very good at: The SSA is very careful and very accurate about calculating Social Security benefits.

And I must point out here that almost all calculations are NOT done by pencil-pushing bureaucrats sitting at their desks with a calculator or adding machine. Instead, those calculations are done by the SSA’s huge, powerful and very reliable central computing systems. And there have been countless studies done by Congress and other oversight agencies concerning the accuracy of Social Security payments. And the studies show that the SSA pays the right benefit amount something like 99% of the time.

I should clarify that I am talking about the accuracy of the initial calculation of a person’s basic Social Security benefit

YOU You Are Being Paid Properly

amount. People getting ongoing Social Security checks can be paid incorrectly from time to time. But that’s usually because the SSA has faulty information. For example, a beneficiary who is under full retirement age and working and making more than the earnings penalty limit fails to inform the government of his or her income, resulting in benefits being paid that were not due. Those kinds of “overpayments” are not uncommon. But the person’s basic Social Security benefit amount is still accurate.

Here are some examples of questions I’ve gotten recently from people who think they are being paid incorrectly.

Q: I am getting $2,200 per month in widow’s benefits. I have a friend at church who gets $2,550 in widow’s benefits. Our husband’s worked side by side in the same business. So why am I getting $300 less than her?

A: Earlier in this column, I mentioned all the variables that come into play in a benefit computation. I’m sure you and your friend and your respective husbands all had different dates of birth. And maybe this lady’s husband made just a little more than your husband. Or maybe he waited a little longer before he filed for his benefits before he died? Or maybe you took benefits sooner than she did?

Q: I started getting retirement benefits in 2000. And I’ve always been convinced I’m getting less than I should. This has been bothering me for 24 years! Can I go to my Social Security office now and complain about this?

A: Well, I suppose you could. But nothing is going to happen. The time to question a benefit amount is when those benefits start. Back in 2000, you received an “award letter” when your Social Security checks started rolling in. That letter gave you appeal rights. It would have said you have 60 days to ask for a review of your benefit computation. So that was the time to question your benefit rate -- not almost a quarter-century later.

Q: I, and all other Social Security beneficiaries, are being cheated out of benefits because I recently learned that all benefits are rounded down. How did this injustice come about?

A: For decades, Social Security benefits were always rounded up. But back in the 1980s, a conservative Congress was looking for ways to trim government expenditures in general and Social Security benefits in particular. One of the little gimmicks they came up with was to round down to the nearest dollar all Social Security benefit calculations. So individual Social Security recipients lose a few nickels or dimes every month. But because Social Security is so huge (one-fourth of the entire federal budget), it save billions for the taxpayers.

Q: Millions of teachers like me around this country are being cheated by offsets applied to their Social Security benefits. Please explain this travesty!

A: You are not being cheated out of anything. I’ve explained the fairness of those offsets hundreds of times in this column over the years. If you want to understand what’s going on, I have an entire chapter devoted to this topic in my book, “Social Security -- Simple And Smart.”

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and

Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. (If ordering the “Simple and Smart” book from Amazon, click on “See all formats and editions” to make sure you are getting the 2024 edition.) Or you can send him an email at thomas. margenau@comcast.net.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

REAL ESTATE WATCH

Effective landscaping

can add 10% to the value of

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

Well, by now I hope everyone set their clock forward and unfortunately experienced that loss of 1 hour of sorely cherished precious sleep that we all need. However, from this writing we are 8 days away from spring, and hopefully without any more snow; but you never know!

It’s time to start thinking about the outside exterior of your home as we have been somewhat cooped up inside during the winter months and have longed for the warmer days ahead. However, based on my gas bill, it’s been a fairly mild winter and it wasn’t as cold as one would have anticipated, thank you for global warming, I appreciate it a lot. But not really!

How does your lawn appear, gray and wishy-washy? Did you do your winter fertilization, as I suggested in my column last fall? Did you apply an anti-desiccant to your winter windprone and now slightly burned shrubbery, again as I suggested last fall? If you notice brown leaves on all your non-deciduous (trees and shrubs that do not lose their leaves or needles) plantings, it’s too late to do anything about it right now. However, you can begin to do a light trimming and removal of all those dead or browned areas to be able to spark new growth during this spring.

Since the ground is no longer in jeopardy of freezing (hopefully so), a thorough and efficient deep root feeding will greatly assist in the rejuvenation of the sprouting and expanding of the new growth on your badly damaged landscaping. However, going forward, note on your calendar by the latest next November, to either do a liquid anti-desiccant spray application to all those plants that were affected this year so you won’t experience the same damage in 2025, as well as winter fertilization on your grass. Moreover, to simplify the process and not deal with this yourself as a DYI individual and to make sure it will be done properly and

effectively and get your money’s worth; hire a company with the expertise, knowledge, and track record to perform this application as well as others to maintain your property in healthy and pristine condition.

I was in the business for 25 years, as a landscape designer and a certified, professional, licensed, and, insured, lawn, tree, and shrub Application Company, called Lawn Gro, this is a tiny portion of what we had offered in the fall and late fall season. Some of you will remember me as you were my customers and now I have been finding purchasers for your homes for the last 30 years. I can provide you with advice and instructions as to how to go about doing this most important and money-saving application, as well as advise you on other issues on your property. Lastly, I can also guide you to those current professional companies that can assist you in performing the services.

outside landscape; besides enjoying a nice bump in potentially increasing the value of your home by 10%.

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The outside of your home can be as crucial and critical in showing the quality and enhancing the true value of your property; as it is tantamount and most important to keep your landscape in tip-top condition in maintaining the well-being of all your trees, shrubs, and plantings. More importantly, they provide the necessary and required oxygen that we all need to survive, breathe, and thrive as well as take in all the carbon dioxide that we expel.

This will also provide the current and/or future buyers an indication and idea of what your interior might look like since your exterior is in such beautiful visually appealing and eye-catching condition. This will spark their curiosity and will assume and will want to view the inside of your home. This will be the number one reason to have a gorgeous alluring and enticing

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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).

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EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Saving: An Acquired Addiction

BY MARY HUNT

As personality traits go, “compulsive” and “addictive” are not generally considered all that terrific. Those of us with an inclination to be obsessive struggle to overcome our obsessions.

But hold on a minute! Being compulsive -- easily addicted and slightly obsessive -- can be a good trait when that propensity is harnessed and channeled in the right direction. Don’t forget that compulsive people have great personalities, are driven to accomplish big things and bring a little sparkle to humanity.

When it comes to spending, compulsive inclinations can be deadly. But compulsively saving can become a profitable addiction, and when nurtured, it can replace bad spending habits. Saving money

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Most of us know we need to eat more seafood. The new U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend two servings per week. After all, it’s heart healthy, low in calories and high in protein.

So, why don’t we choose it more? Maybe we’re intimidated by how to prepare it or just what seafood we should choose.

While eating a variety of seafood is always best, you may want to start with salmon and tuna, seafood that has a power trio of vitamin D, omega-3s and selenium, and is easy to prepare.

First, the benefits: A 2018 study found 40% of Americans don’t get enough vitamin D, a nutrient that helps maintain healthy bones and teeth and fight viral and respiratory infections. While we can make vitamin D from the sun, many of us are at risk because of where we live or how often we go outside or wear sunscreen. Both salmon and tuna (along with some mushrooms) are natural sources of vitamin D.

Salmon and tuna are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy fats. A 2016 study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who eat an omega-3rich diet have reduced heart disease risk, lower blood pressure and lower triglyceride levels. The research also found that omega-3s help reduce chronic inflammation, a major contributor to many chronic

can be as addictive as smoking, drinking or overeating.

Here are four golden rules for becoming a compulsive saver:

NO. 1: DO IT NOW

If you put off saving until you get a raise or pay off your debts or win the lottery (seriously, I hear that a lot!), you will never start. Nothing to save? Start cutting expenses, and save the difference. You can get started with any amount, even with as little as a dollar. In fact, why don’t you start right now? Identify a place to stash your “savings.” Now pull out $1, and go put it there. If you can make that $5, $10 or $20, all the better. You can park your savings in an envelope, drawer or shelf. The point is to identify a place where you will deposit more money regularly.

NO. 2: AUTOMATIC DEPOSITS

Your bank or credit union will help you save by making automatic deposits from your checking account straight into your savings account. It doesn’t have to be a lot; $5 or $10 is a comfortable place to start. Or, if you have a payroll savings plan where you work, get that set up immediately. Or open an online savings

account on the SmartyPig website. Your savings will be insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; there are no fees or minimums to get started; and you’ll have 24/7 access to your account. With automatic savings deposits, you won’t have to try to remember to make manual deposits.

NO. 3: PAY YOURSELF FIRST

You have to believe that 10% of everything you earn is yours to keep before paying your bills or spending your paycheck. Once you make this an unbending and nonnegotiable routine, you will be on your way to becoming an addictive saver. The secret to success is paying yourself first. If you wait until you pay everyone else, you’ll come out on the short end of the stick.

NO. 4: LIVE WITH CASH

If you can’t afford to pay cash, you can’t afford it. Make that your new motto for 2021. Living on credit, writing bad checks and demanding to have stuff now and pay for it later will sabotage any plans you have to become a compulsive saver. Get into the habit of leaving your plastic and your checkbook at home. Carry enough

NUTRITION NEWS

Choosing Seafood

health problems, including heart disease.

Selenium in seafood is another benefit. It’s an essential mineral, which means it has to be obtained through your diet. Fatty seafood, such as salmon and tuna, are good sources of selenium. Selenium is an

antioxidant, which helps immune function and with oxidative stress, according to research on selenium and immunity published in 2018 in the journal Nutrients.

The benefits of seafood are worth giving it a try. Your heart will be glad you did.

Q and A

Q: Is avocado oil a healthy oil to use?

A: Avocado oil is a heart-healthy oil, high in oleic acid, which is an unsaturated fat. It contains vitamin E and helps the body absorb other fat-soluble vitamins (A, D and K). In addition, avocado oil is an excellent source of lutein, which is a ca-

cash to cover your needs for the day, and watch how your spending habits will change!

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.” Tips can be submitted at tips.everydaycheapskate. com/. 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 “Debt-Proof Living.”

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rotenoid. It’s similar to olive oil in terms of use and nutritional value. Don’t be put off that it’s green in color; that’s because cold-pressed avocado oil is unrefined and retains some of the flavor and color of the fruit. Like other fats, although they are healthy because they are unsaturated, they pack a few calories. All fats have 9 calories per gram. One tablespoon of avocado oil has 14 grams of fat and 124 calories.

RECIPE

My favorite way to prepare salmon is on the grill using a cedar plank and an herbed spice mix. The recipe is adapted from Easy Culinary Science Cookbook by Jessica Gavin.

GRILLED SALMON ON A CEDAR PLANK

Servings: 4

1 cedar plank soaked in water for 60 minutes

1 pound salmon fillet, skin on 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Spice Mix:

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon each: dried oregano and dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon each: pepper, cayenne pepper

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

Place cedar plank in a sheet pan with water, and soak for an hour. If the board floats, place a heavy object on top. In a small bowl, combine all the spices (brown sugar through cinnamon). Evenly coat the surface of the salmon with about half the spice mix. Reserve additional spice for later use or as extra spice after cooking the salmon. Heat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450 degrees). Remove the soaked plank, and lightly dry. Place plank on grill grate, and close the lid. When the plank begins to smoke and lightly char, remove it from the grill for 7-10 minutes. Put the seasoned salmon, skin side down, on the plank (charred side up). Place plank with salmon on the grill, and cook the salmon about 15 minutes, or until fish begins to flake. Serve with lemon wedges.

Per serving: 179 calories; 23 grams protein; 5 grams carbohydrates; 7 grams fat (1 gram saturated); 62 milligrams cholesterol; 1 gram fiber; 1 gram sugar, 171 milligrams sodium.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD.

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BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of March 17-23, 2024

The moon will illuminate our sky again this week, traveling from its first quarter phase to full moon, and it’ll be hard to miss. But next Sunday night and Monday morning, the moon will experience an eclipse that few, if any, sky watchers will even notice: a penumbral eclipse.

Eclipses of the moon are pretty simple to understand. As the moon orbits the Earth, it occasionally enters the shadow of our planet and we see a lunar eclipse. This can occur, of course, only when the moon is full; in other words, when it’s opposite the sun in our sky.

What most folks don’t know, however, is that every solid body casts not one, but two shadows -- a dark inner shadow that everyone can see (this is called the “umbra”), and a light outer shadow that’s tough to notice unless we look for it (the “penumbra”). Check it out for yourself using a bright lightbulb to cast the shadow of your hand onto a wall. If you look carefully, you will see both shadows: the dark inner shadow and the faint outer shadow that forms a blurry fringe around the umbra.

It’s this penumbral shadow of our planet that the moon will drift through early next week, and we in North America are in prime viewing position. Frankly, though, there won’t be much

Seeing a Nearly Invisible Eclipse

to view. The eclipse will begin at 12:53 a.m. EDT on Monday, March 25 (9:53 p.m. PDT on Sunday, March 24), but only the most observant of moon gazers will see anything change on the moon’s face for the next hour or more.

Only around maximum eclipse (3:13 a.m. EDT/12:13 a.m. PDT) might you see a bit of darkening around the moon’s bottom edge. That’s because, around that time, the moon’s southernmost limb is closest to the umbral shadow, so it tends to darken more.

The moon will then continue to leave the penumbra until the eclipse officially ends at 5:33 a.m. EDT (2:33 a.m. PDT).

If you miss this lunar eclipse -- and many of us will due to its subtlety -- our next chance to see the moon enter the Earth’s shadow will come on the night of September 17/18. It’ll be a similar eclipse, but on that night the moon will enter the umbral shadow -- just barely, though, so we’ll be able to see a tiny partial eclipse.

The next total lunar eclipse will occur for us in North America next year at this time, on the night of March 13/14, and that’s the one that most of us are excited about. We in North and South America will be in a great location to view it high in our sky. Our friends in Asia will watch the eclipse as the moon rises, while those in Europe and western Africa will see the total eclipsed moon setting in the west at dawn.

In just two weeks, however, the moon will be co-starring in the most spectacular of all eclipses: a total solar eclipse that you shouldn’t miss. More about that next week.

In the meantime, be sure to check

BY: TRACY BECKERMAN

“What’s with all the Gatorade?” said my husband when I walked in the door with two bulging bags of the stuff.

“It’s for tonight,” I said matter-of-factly.

“Is there a special occasion that calls for large amounts of fluorescent green liquid to be ingested?” he asked, wondering if perhaps he’d forgotten an obscure holiday that was celebrated with excessive amounts of electrolytes.

“Yes,” I said. “The occasion is my colonoscopy tomorrow and the Gatorade will facilitate the celebration, if you want to call it that, which will happen for a good portion of the evening.”

He blinked as he registered what was about to take place. I was sure he was recalling his own colonoscopy prep several months prior, after which he told me he now knew firsthand how Mount Vesuvius felt when it erupted. I tried to be supportive, but seeing there wasn’t much I could really do to help,

I basically just shouted out words of encouragement while giving thanks for the fact that we had a place with two bathrooms.

“Sorry honey,” he said. “Is there anything I can do?”

“You may want to leave the country until this is over,” I said. “And take the dog. There’s no reason he needs to be exposed to this kind of apocalyptic trauma at his young age.”

“Well, the good news is once you do this, you won’t have to get another one for five years,” he said.

I glared at him. “Assuming I can get through the first one.”

I’d actually been through something like this once before, more or less, when I ate some bad shrimp in Peru, so I kind of knew what to expect. But of course, nothing truly prepares you for the equivalent of an internal power-washing on an otherwise lovely evening. When the doctor said the prep was the worst part, I had thought he meant the mental preparation for having a medi-

out the penumbral show next Sunday night!

Visit

COPYRIGHT

cal procedure. I didn’t realize it was the six-hour assault on my intestines that would make me wonder if I should have invested in a Tempur-Pedic toilet seat and bought stock in Charmin.

I had hoped not to let it be known that I was doing this because, honestly, there are some things in life we are just meant to do alone. My husband, however, was under the erroneous belief that I should have lots of support to help me through this process. And thus, it came as a complete surprise to me when, as I sat on my throne, my phone rang.

“Hey, Mom, how’s it going?” asked my son.

“I’m kind of in the middle of something right now,” I said.

“Yeah, I know. Dad told us.”

I silently took a moment to wish a prostate exam on my husband.

“So, I’m not really in a good place to talk right now,” I said.

“Oh, sure! No worries. Call me later.”

Thirty seconds later, the phone rang again.

“Hi, Mama,” said my daughter. “How are you feeling?”

“Not great. Gotta go because, you know, I gotta go.”

“No problem,” she said and hung up.

Within the course of the next 20 minutes, I heard from my mother, my brother, my sister-in-law, my former babysitter, the guy who rotates my tires, my senator, Anderson Cooper and Oprah, all calling to ask how it was going and offer words of encouragement.

Finally, when I was just about done with my ordeal, the phone rang one more time.

“Hi,” said a voice I didn’t recognize. “We’d like to offer you a free estimate on getting your ducts cleaned.”

“Thanks,” I said. “But I think I’m good now for five years.”

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

This penumbral eclipse will be subtle and difficult to view.

ONE

Garden City News • Mid Island Times • Bethpage Newsgram

Syosset Advance • Jericho News Journal

Williston Times - Mineola Edition

New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times

Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Great Neck News

DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.

2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”

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Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.

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EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

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If you own a business or have a service to provide, we’ll create professional advertisements to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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PUBLIC NOTICE We, Edward & Lisa Castellano, bring forth our land patent benefits. The complete Patent can be viewed at landpatentpower.com

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN: Almost 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 here you are my Mother, Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceive without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (3x) Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (3x) Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you.

MARKETPLACE

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516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-Silver-MirrorsLamps-Artwork

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All proceeds benefit

The Garden City Historical Society

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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 upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!

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TAG SALE

INVITED ESTATE SALES

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Garden City, NY 11530

Public sale selling furniture, tons of books, lots of plastic and metal shelving units, clothes, shoes, artwork, collectibles, baskets, packing materials, vintage wallpaper, hose racing memorabilia, outdoor items, basement, garage items and much more!

Visit www.invitedsales.com for pictures & details!!

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN

Thursday, March 21, 2024

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Garden City, NY 11530

Public sale selling furniture, books, home decor, clothes, shoes, silverware, china, home goods, collectibles, garage and much more!

Visit www.invitedsales.com for pictures & details!!

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Dish up homemade ravioli this weeky

Homemade Ravioli

Many styles of ethnic cuisine feature a filled dough or pasta. Wontons or dumplings are common in certain types of Asian cuisine and pierogies are enjoyed in areas of Eastern Europe. For Italians and Sicilians, the stuffed delight of choice is likely ravioli.

The word “ravioli” comes from the Italian “riavvolgere,’ which means “to wrap.” Although the origins of ravioli are obscure, the earliest

Servings: 24 ravioli

For the dough:

2 cups fine ground durum semolina flour

1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt

2 large eggs

mentions of the dish date back to the fourteenth century. The pasta is made from thinly rolled sheets of dough, which are filled with cheeses or meats, then topped with another sheet of dough, and pressed and cut to form the desired shapes. Ravioli made fresh can be a delight to eat. Enjoy this recipe for “Homemade Ravioli,” courtesy of Chef Billy Parisi’s online recipe resource “Let’s Cook.”

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1⁄4 cup cold water

For the filling:

2 eggs

1⁄2 pound ground beef

1) In a food processor, pulse together the flour and salt 3 to 4 times. Next, whisk together the eggs, oil and water in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup until combined.

2) While processing the flour-salt mixture at high speed, slowly pour in the egg-water mixture until incorporated. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of water to help make the dough while in the food processor. Process until the dough turns into a tight ball and cleans the side of the processor.

3) Remove the dough and knead on a clean, lightly floured surface for 2 to 3 minutes. It should be soft when pinching it, like Play-Doh®. Cover and let the dough rest for 20 minutes.

4) In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the meat, cheese, eggs, and seasonings until combined. Keep cool and covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.

5) Cut the pasta dough into eight individual balls. Press each dough ball down and lightly flour on both sides. Run the dough through the widest setting on the pasta roller, then run it through on the second to last thinnest setting on the pasta roller. Lightly flour both sides of

1 1⁄4 cups whole milk ricotta cheese

1⁄4 cup Pecorino Romano cheese

1 teaspoon sea salt

1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper

1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano

3⁄4 teaspoon garlic granules

the rolled dough and repeat the process with the other seven dough balls, and hang them on a pasta drying rack.

6) Lightly flour the top of the ravioli mold. Place one of the rolled-out dough sheets on top of the mold. Stuff each ravioli slot with 1 to 11⁄2 tablespoons of the filling, totaling 12 individual filling slots. Do not over-stuff. Place another sheet of rolled-out dough over top then light flour. Using a rolling pin, roll the outside edges of the mold and center around each ravioli cutting through the dough into the mold, and separating them.

7) Remove the excess dough around the outside. You can re-roll this out and make homemade spaghetti or another pasta you’d like. Flip the mold over onto a sheet tray lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process until you have all of the ravioli done.

8) You can either freeze the ravioli until frozen or boil them right away. If boiling, add them to a large pot of boiling salted water. Once they are floating, cook them for another 5 to 6 minutes or until the meat filling is cooked through. After cooking, try serving them with pomodoro sauce or a meat spaghetti sauce.

Town seeks counselors for Summer Recreation program

The Town of Oyster Bay is seeking counselors ages 16 and older for the 2024 Summer Recreation Program. The six-week program provides a rewarding employment experience for counselors as they work with children and make a difference.

“This great summer job is ideal for residents age 16 or older who are looking to build their resume,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Our summer recreation counselors get real-world experience while

having fun, making memories, and making a difference in the lives of others.”

Applicants must be available for the duration of the program, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, beginning July 1 through August 9. Orientation will take place the week of June 24. Summer Recreation Program participants take part in trips, tournaments, shows and athletic events, including the TOBAY Games, mak -

ing being a counselor a great first job for many residents.  Employment opportunities are offered at Marjorie R. Post (Massapequa), Plainview-Old Bethpage and Syosset-Woodbury Community Parks, Ellsworth W. Allen Town Park in Farmingdale, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park and Beach in Oyster Bay, and Tappen Beach in Glenwood Landing.

“The Town has positions available for counselors, coordinators, lead -

ers and assistant leaders at all locations, especially at our north shore facilities at Theodore Roosevelt Park and Tappen Beach,” said Councilman Labriola. “Spots fill quickly and we encourage all interested residents to fill out an application today.”

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

Bethpage senior selected to perform at NYSSMA event

Matthew Schneider, a senior from Bethpage High School and a talented jazz guitarist, performed at the 51st annual Joseph R. Sugar NYSSMA Day in Albany on March 4.

Schneider served as a member of the NYSSMA All-State Instrumental Jazz Ensemble. The ensemble performed both a public concert at the South Gallery Concourse of the

Empire State Plaza and at a reception for State legislators, members of their staff, parents and NYSSMA members.

Town of Oyster Bay offers Toddler Arts and Crafts Program

The Town of Oyster Bay's popular Toddler Arts & Crafts Program will be offered again this spring, beginning on April 1st. This 6-week program offers classes at the Town’s Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage and at the Hicksville Athletic Center, and is open to children ages 2 through 4.

“The Town’s Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is a wonderful way to help support your toddler’s development through nurturing their artistic expression,” said Town Councilman Tom Hand.  “Classes will certainly fill up quickly as this program offers children an opportunity to meet others their age and explore their creativity. Highlights of the program include holiday crafts

and ceramics.”

The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program begins April 1st and is 6 weeks in duration. Residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take place on:

• Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. for two-year-olds, and 11:00 a.m. for three-and-four-yearolds at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville;

• Thursdays at 1:00 p.m. for two-year-olds, and 2:00 p.m. for three-and-four-yearolds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage.

Registration will take place online through the Town’s online registration portal available at oysterbaytown. com/portal on March 4 at 9:00

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE N

OTICE OF SALE

a.m. Space is limited- first come, first serve. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity.

Each class is approximately 45 minutes. The cost of the program is $35 per child who is a Town resident, and $45 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. The child’s birth certificate and a tax or utility bill will be required to validate age and proof of residency. A guardian must be present during the class. A smock and supplies will be provided with enrollment.

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

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 FORECLOSURE NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE   SUPREME

COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Lehman XS Trust Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-4N, Plaintiff AGAINST Parminder Chandi; et al., Defendant(s)   Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 20, 2020 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 3, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 253 Haypath Road, Old Bethpage, NY 11804.  All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Old Bethpage, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 47 Block 31 Lot 12.  Approximate amount of judgment $578,244.15 plus interest and costs.  Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 010267/2015.  The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19

Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will

Bethpage senior Matthew Schneider performed at the Joseph R. Sugar NYSSMA Day as part of the NYSSMA All-State Instrumental Jazz Ensemble. Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

Pick a Reading Partner at OCR School Registration for TOB’s Spring Fitness Classes

Old Country Road Elementary School students in Hicksville were invited to show their school spirit and wear blue or white on Feb. 28 to celebrate and encourage a love of reading as part of the school’s PARP program, Pick a Reading Partner.

Residents of the Town of Oyster Bay who are interested in maintaining or improving their levels of fitness can register for the Town’s popular Co-Ed Fitness Classes at the Hicksville Athletic Center. Classes run for 10 weeks and are offered to individuals 18 years of age or older.

“The Town’s spring co-ed recreational programs have consistently proven to be one of the most popular programs the Town offers each year, as they provide a terrific outlet for our residents to exercise and stay in shape,” said Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “Residents can participate in a variety of activities, including Cardio Kick-boxing, Yoga, Zumba, Pilates and Ballroom Dancing, all of which begin in early April.”

Each session runs for 10 weeks, beginning in early April. All classes are held at the Town of Oyster Bay Hicksville Athletic Center, 167 S. Broadway, Hicksville. Registration is now underway for the following classes:

• Ballroom Dancing: Offered Saturdays, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., beginning April 6.

• Cardio Kick-Boxing:  Offered Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., beginning April 4.

• Pilates, Tone & Sculpt: Offered Mondays, from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.,

beginning April 1.

• Yoga: Residents can select one of three sessions: Saturdays (beginning April 6 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.), Sundays (beginning April 7 from 8:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.), or Tuesdays (beginning April 2 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

• Zumba: Residents can select one of two sessions: Mondays (beginning April 1 from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.) or Wednesdays (beginning April 3 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.).

Online registration is currently underway at www.oysterbaytown.com/ portal. You must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s license.

All classes are held at the Town of Oyster Bay Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 S. Broadway in Hicksville. The schedule is subject to change. If a session is cancelled, make-up day(s) will be attempted. Class fees are $60 for residents and $70 for non-residents. Proof of residency/age required when registering, with TOB residents given first preference. Mats are not provided; participants should bring their own mat to Yoga and Pilates. For more information, call (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@ oysterbay-ny.gov.

Town launches pet food, supplies partnership with LI Cares

The Town of Oyster Bay will once again host a Pet Food & Supply Drive in partnership with Long Island Cares. The drive will take place from March 1 to March 31 with a focus on collecting for the family members most vulnerable to hunger, residents’ pets. Long Island Cares formed Baxter’s Pet Pantry in 2009 to assist in feeding dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, caged pets, fish, reptiles and all others considered family members.

“Unfortunately, many pets are oftentimes placed into shelters or given away because families cannot afford the necessary food and supplies,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “When struggling families have to make choices to heat their homes, buy medication or feed their own families, pets can become an afterthought. Pet food drives like this one can be a real lifesaver for both pets and their families.”

The creation of Baxter’s Pet Pantry by Long Island Cares has helped distribute

over one million pounds of pet food, all of which has been donated through pet food drives like this one and corporate donations.

“These pet food and supply donation drives can help countless animals stay at home with their loved ones,” said Councilman Tom Hand. “The Town is proud to once again partner with Long Island Cares for this important cause.”

Those interested in supporting the Town’s Pet Food & Supply Drive can place donated items in drop-off boxes located at both Town Hall offices, including Town Hall North at 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay, and Town Hall South at 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa, during regular business hours.

Town Hall locations are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.  For more information, visit www.licares.org or call the Town’s Public Information Office at (516) 624-6380.

Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools