Mid-Island Times (9/13/24)

SERVING PLAINVIEW, HICKSVILLE, AND LEVIT TOWN

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL

Schools throughout the area opened for the year this week. Above, Bethpage students from JFK Middle School are happy to be back for the school year.

Hicksville woman charged

A Hicksville woman has been charged with allegedly taking more than $300,000 from her employer over an 18 month period.

According to Nassau County Police, Elizabeth Stern, 52, paid off her personal credit cards with checks that were stolen from her former employer, Superior Air Condition & Heating Systems Inc. In addition, police say that she also cashed company

checks totaling approximately $38,000.

Stern is charged with Grand Larceny 2nd Degree, five counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree, five  counts of Identity Theft 1st Degree, five counts of Unlawful Possession of Personal Identifying Information 3rd Degree and Falsifying Business Records 1st Degree.

Scam prevention seminars offered for seniors

The Town of Oyster Bay and the Nassau County District Attorney's office are partnering to host a series of educational seminars this fall. The initiative aims to equip seniors and their caregivers with the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize, report, and combat fraudulent schemes.

Senior citizens, often targeted due to their limited familiarity with modern technology and scam tactics, face heightened risks of manipulation. Factors such as loneliness and medication-related vulnerabilities can exacerbate their susceptibility.

The seminars will cover a range of topics including:

• Common scam tactics and how to identify them

• Steps to take if you suspect a scam

• Practical strategies for safeguarding personal information

• Resources for reporting fraudulent activities

These informative sessions will be held at community centers throughout the Town of Oyster Bay, ensuring easy access for residents. The fall schedule includes:

• Friday, September 20, at 2:30 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, 7800 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury

• Friday, September 27, at 2 p.m. at Marjorie Post Park Community Center, Unqua & Merrick Roads, Massapequa.

“Protecting our seniors is a top priority,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “By working with District Attorney AnnE T. Donnelly, we are taking proactive steps to ensure that our elderly community members are informed and empowered against deceitful tactics.”

District Attorney Donnelly stated, “My office is dedicated to combating fraud using all the tools at our disposal, and community engagement is vital to keeping Nassau County safe. Through these educational seminars, seniors will learn how to spot the warning signs of a scam and, most importantly, protect themselves and their finances. Working together with leaders like Supervisor Saladino, we can fight back against senior scams across our county and blunt their impact on our most vulnerable residents.”

Residents are encouraged to attend these seminars to gain valuable insights and share the information with family and friends.

Elizabeth Stern

Nassau County Police are looking for a man who walked up to a home in Plainview, exposed himself, urinated on the home's front door and Ring doorbell camera, and then fled while yelling antisemitic slurs.

Police say the man is white, approximately 18–20 years of age, last seen wearing a white t-shirt, jeans and a white hat. Police released video clips from the Ring doorbell.

Detectives request anyone with information regarding the above incident to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS or call 911. All callers will remain anonymous.

Renew your wedding vows at special town ceremony

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to renew their wedding vows at a group ceremony scheduled for Friday, September 20, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay. The special ceremony begins at 11 a.m. and will take place along the beach, with beautiful views of Oyster Bay Harbor. Light refreshments will be served to guests.

“Our beautiful beach and picturesque harbor provide the perfect backdrop for couples who are looking to celebrate their love, and what better day to ‘fall’ in love all over again than in recognition of the first day of fall,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We look forward to sharing this wonderful day with happy couples who want to declare their endless love for one another.”

The ceremony will take place by the gazebo at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach, located off Larrabee Avenue in Oyster Bay hamlet. In the event of rain, the ceremony will be moved to Oyster Bay Town Hall. This event is offered free of charge to Town residents but reserva tions are required. Residents interested in renewing their wedding vows should RSVP by Tuesday, September 17, by contacting (516) 624-6380.

“We are so pleased to offer this wonder ful event again in our beautiful hamlet and hope our residents come out and join us in affirming their commitment to one anoth er,” added Town Clerk Richard LaMarca.

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Man arrested for entering Levittown home

Nassau County Police arrested a man for allegedly entering a Levittown home on Friday, September 6, at 11:40 a.m.

According to police, Dashawn Thompkins, 46, entered the home of a 53 year old Levittown woman and was involved in a verbal altercation. The victim hid in an upstairs bedroom and called 911. Upon arrival, police say they found Thompkins hiding in a closet. They say he refused to leave the closet and became combative.

According to police, they subdued him with a Taser.

Police say one officer sustained an injury to his hand and wrist and was treated at a local hospital. Thompkins was also transported to a hospital for

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Levittown schools welcome new teachers

Teachers joining the Levittown School District for the 2024–2025 school year were welcomed during the annual new teacher orientation on Aug. 26 and 27.

Board of Education trustees and administrators greeted educators at Levittown Memorial Education Center. Presentations by various department directors helped prepare teachers with the basics for starting at their respective schools. Both elementary and secondary-level teachers are ready to take on the new school year and greet their many new students on Sept. 4.

Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools

The district’s newest secondary teachers are ready for the year ahead.

Elementary teachers new to the Levittown School District attended orientation on Aug. 26.

Attend our

Resident Art Gallery Opening and Paint & Sip Wednesday, September 18, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Halloween House to open in Hicksville

Halloween House Long Island is set to open its doors on September 27. It promises a friendly enchanting journey through meticulously designed rooms,  each with its own distinct Halloween theme.

At Halloween House Long Island, the focus is on fun, not fear.

“We wanted to create a space where everyone can enjoy the magic of Halloween without the jump scares and gore that many haunted houses rely on,” says Michael Dessart, CEO of Halloween House Long Island. “Our goal is to provide a memorable experience that’s suitable for people of all ages."

Visitors will step into a world where each room tells a different Halloween experience. From the whimsical Spiderweb Light Tunnel to the eerie Beetlejuice Illusion Room, Virtual Reality, Interactive Trivia, Halloween House Long Island offers something for everyone. The attraction includes the Glow in the Dark Room, The To Fright Show, the Haunted Carnival, the

Nightmare Before Christmas-inspired room, and the one-of-a-kind Trick or Treat Room, among others.

In addition, Halloween House Long Island is committed to being an affordable option for families. Tickets are priced lower than most Halloween attractions in the area, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun. In addition, flexibility in ticketing means that guests don’t need to stress about arriving at a specific time; the attraction will accommodate guests whenever they arrive during operating hours.

Hours of operation will be: Monday - Thursday: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm; Friday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm; Saturday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm; Sunday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm. Halloween House officially closes on November 3rd. Birthday parties and corporate events are also available. The house is located at located at 358 N Broadway, Hicksville.

For more information about Halloween House Long Island, please visit: https://halloweenhouselongisland.com/

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Halloween House Long Island will open in Hicksville on September 27.

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Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Friday, September 13

10:00 a.m.: The Ultimate Brain Teaser Stations Experience Get ready to spice up your Fridays with a brain workout bonanza! Challenge your mind with puzzles, games, and endless fun! No registration required!

4:00 p.m.: Falling for Trees with the Whaling Museum (Ages 3–5) Watch out! It ’ s that time of year when acorns, seedpods, and pinecones are falling from the trees. Learn about local Long Island trees and discover how shipbuilders used them to build wooden whaling ships. Have fun making and playing with your own spinning whirligig toy and decorate a wooden acorn ornament to take home!

Saturday, September 14

1:00 p.m.: Sound Healing Workshop: A Journey Through Vibrations and Emotions - Join Certified Sound Healer Laura Cerrano to enjoy a rich tapestry of sounds from Tibetan singing bowls, gentle rhythmic drumming, tuning forks, and various other instruments. Sound healing provides a unique and immersive experience that can help release tension and stress, allowing you to feel more balanced, harmonious and at peace.

Sunday, September 15

2:00 p.m.: Como Brothers BandLive at the JPL! Meet the dynamic duo from Long Island, The Como Brothers — Matthew and Andrew! These musical maestros are a blend of pop-rock, easy listening, and a sprinkle of bluesy goodness. With a collection of albums and EPs under their belt, their original tunes are a musical treasure.

Their melodies have danced their way into popular TV shows like “General Hospital,” “The Young and the Restless,” “Call Me Kat!,” “Keeping Up With the Kardashians,” “The Real World,” and “Best Ink.” Plus, their tracks have even grooved their way into global store playlists, making shopping sprees extra musical at places like H&M and Zara!

Tickets is ongoing at the Circulation Desk.

Tuesday, September 17

9:30 a.m.: IN-PERSON: Adult Walking Club (Weather Permitting)All levels, all abilities are welcome. Join us for a 45 minute walk around the neighborhood. It’s an opportunity to get some exercise, meet new people, spend time with a friend and enjoy some conversation.

10:30 a.m.: IN-PERSON: English Conversation Group RegistrationConversation classes are a wonderful way for foreign speakers to improve their use

of everyday English. Some knowledge of English is required! For Jericho cardholders only.

11:00 a.m.: VIRTUAL: Guided Meditation for Self-Healing with Patricia Anderson - Join Pat for one or all of the meditation sessions to bring harmony and balance into your life. Learn the beautiful practice of Jin Shin Jyutsu to help your body heal and keep you relaxed.

2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Jukebox Musicals and Broadway with Stephen Nachamie, Stage & Film Director - We will explore Jukebox musicals such as “Juliet,” “Beautiful,” “Moulin Rouge” and more. “Mamma Mia” was one of the most successful Jukebox musicals featuring the music of ABBA - but what is the history of the Jukebox Musical, and what keeps audiences coming to Broadway to hear their favorite hits in a new form?

7:00 p.m.: STEMtastic (Grades 3 to 6) - Learn and have fun while exploring a hands-on STEM experience. Come and learn while having fun!

Wednesday, September 18

2:00 p.m.: Fall Title Swap in the Park - Grab a chair or blanket and join us for our fall title swap in the park. Enjoy some delicious fall treats as we discuss what we're reading and upcoming releases to add to our TBR piles!

Thursday, September 19

2:00 p.m.: Unlock Your Inner Artist: An Acrylic Painting WorkshopImmerse yourself in the beauty of nature and the art of painting a beautiful waterfall scene in our exclusive acrylic painting workshop! Join us for a fun and captivating session, hands-on workshop where you’ll receive expert guidance and all necessary materials and supplies. No prior experience

is required -- just bring your enthusiasm! 7:00 p.m.: Books Before Bedtime (Ages 4–8) - Children will enjoy a selection of stories.

7:00 p.m.: Author Visit: Sydney Joshua - Does your work environment bring out the best in you? Do you feel valued and appreciated in the workplace? Does your boss have a genuine interest in your concerns? Come meet with author Sydney W. Joshua to engage in discussions on the work/life balancing act. In a safe space, you will refine and develop communication skills to help foster a harmonious work environment. Join her as she reads excerpts from her book and engage in exercises designed to improve communication in the workplace.

Friday, September 20

10:30 a.m.: The Ultimate Brain Teaser Stations Experience - Get ready to spice up your Fridays with a brain workout bonanza! Challenge your mind with puzzles, games, and endless fun!

2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Great Performers with Marc Courtade: The Poetic Julie Christie - British actress Julie Christie rose to fame in the 1960s as an iconic symbol of the Swinging Sixties. Her early success led to numerous awards, but she later retreated from stardom to focus on political activism. Christie is admired for her intelligence, glamour, and notable acting skills, making her a respected figure in the film industry.

4:00 p.m.: Craft Corner (K to Grade 3) - Join our teen volunteers when they help you to make a craft.

4:00 p.m.: Teens: Community Service Event: Craft Corner - Earn 1 hour of Community Service credit as you help younger children make a fun craft!

See what’s happening at your library!

Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, like classes, lectures, concerts, movie screenings, and more, all for free or cheap!

Hicksville students ready for new school year

East Street students were eager to start the new school year.

received an overview of science class procedures.

The Hicksville School District welcomed back students for the 2024–2025 school year on Sept. 3. Students arrived at their respective schools eager to meet

their new teachers and classmates.  The energy and excitement of the new school year were felt throughout the day.

Photos courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

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Hicksville Middle School students

Old Country Road students enjoyed story time on the first day of school.

A Lee Avenue student looked forward to the new school year.

Legislator thanks summer intern team

NASSAU DAY VS

Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) recently thanked his team of summer interns for their hard work on behalf of the residents of the 16th Legislative District.

During the program, students learned about the relationship between politics and government and the difference between the two; worked with legislative staff to address constituent issues; aided in the creation of content for Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s social media platforms and assisted with the staging of community events, and more. Special emphasis was placed on developing planning, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Each of the four interns – George Sekavec, Cory Wright, Chelsea Joseph and Rebecca Hernandez – are

current college students and returning participants in Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s internship program, which is supervised by LD 16 Chief of Staff Sereine Cave-Leon (second from left, above).

“As a Nassau County Legislator, it has been my tremendous privilege and a pleasure to give local student opportunities to serve the public and get an up-close view of local government in action,” Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. “The hard work, fresh ideas, and enthusiasm of our interns made a significant impact on the 16th District, and we are so grateful for the time they spent working with this summer. We can’t wait to see the incredible things they’ll accomplish in your future endeavors!”

Levittown Community Council to meet

The Levittown Community Council will hold its General Meeting on Tuesday, September 23, at 7 p.m.

Local organization representatives have been invited to kick off the meeting and share with the community events and activities that they have planned for the coming year. Invitees include The Nassau Lionel Operating Engineers, The Levittown Library, The

Chamber of Commerce, St. Bernards (celebrating their 75th anniversary this year!), Levittown Kiwanis and VFW Post 9592, just to name a few!

This meeting will take place at the Levittown Library, Bluegrass Lane Levittown starting at 7:00 p.m., in Meeting Rooms 1 and 2

Refreshments will be served!

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Nassau County Legislaure Deputy Minoriy Leader Arnold W. Drucker (D –Plainview) and his Chief of Staff Sereine Cave-Leon (second from left) recently thanked the team of summer interns.

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NASSAU COUNTY

FORECLOSURE NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST Isaac Perkin, if living, or if either or all be dead, their wives, husbands, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributes, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said Isaac Perkin, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and the respective husbands, wives, widow or widowers of them, if any, all of whose names are unknown to plaintiff; et al., Defendant(s)  Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 11, 2017, and Amended December 22, 2021, and Amended November 1, 2023, and Amended January 26, 2024, 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 October 16, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 29 Oak Drive, Plainview, NY 11803.  All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Hicksville, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section: 12 Block 58 Lot: 1.  Approximate amount of judgment $292,499.63 plus interest and costs.  Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 008053/2014. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held "Rain or Shine." Jerome Scharoff, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 4304792 Dated: August 8, 2024 For

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSORIN-INTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2006HE7, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006HE7, Plaintiff, AGAINST MELANIE ARTOGLOU AKA

MELANIE A. ARTOGLOU AKA

MELANIE ARNAIZ, et al.

Defendant(s)

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

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 16, 2024 at 2:00 PM premises known as 364 Central Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714.

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

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

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Registration for Town athletic programs

The Town of Oyster Bay is holding registration for its Fall Athletic Programs for basketball, badminton, and volleyball. The programs begin on Sunday, September 29, Hicksville Athletic Center. All athletic programs run for 10 weeks, are co-ed, and open to individuals 18 and over.

“The Town’s athletic programs offer a great opportunity for residents to take to the court, improve their skills, and make new friends,” said Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “We have various sessions scheduled for each sport, giving residents several opportunities to have fun while staying active.”

Basketball pickup games will be held on Thursdays from 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturdays from 8:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., and Sundays from 8:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., beginning on September 29, 2024. The basketball program is

10-weeks long and costs $25 for residents and $40 for non-residents.

Badminton will feature two sessions for registrants to choose from. Classes start Sunday, September 29. Session 1 takes place Tuesdays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., Fridays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., and Sundays from 6:10 p.m. to 8:10 p.m. Session 2 takes place Tuesdays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., Fridays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., and Sundays from 8:20 p.m. to 10:20 p.m. The badminton program is 10-weeks long and costs $75 for residents and $100 for non-residents.

Volleyball will be split into two sessions. The first session will be held on Mondays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., Wednesdays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., and Saturdays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The second session

will take place on Mondays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., Wednesdays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:20 p.m. to 10:20 p.m.. The volleyball program is 10-weeks long, costs $75 for residents and $100 for non-residents, and is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 30th.

Registration is available by visiting oysterbaytown.com/ sports. You must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s license. Proof of residency is required for resident discount. The schedule is subject to change – if a session is cancelled, make-up day(s) will be attempted. For more information, or to inquire about special holiday scheduling, please call (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny. gov

One-stop passport weekend

To help residents looking to obtain new passports, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced that his office will offer a special onestop Passport Weekend on Saturday, September 14, and Sunday, September 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa.

graph with a clear view of the applicant’s face against a plain white or light colored background. Photos will also be available for $10 at both Town Halls North and South during Passport Weekend.

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

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“Residents looking to apply for a new passport are invited to visit Town Hall during Passport Weekend to receive assistance,” said Town Clerk LaMarca. “We can help you with organizing your documents, obtaining a photo and submitting the documents for approval.”

Requirements for applying for a passport include:

• One 2x2 color photo-

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship – Previously issued undamaged U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship.

• Proof of Identity –Naturalization Certificate, Valid Driver’s License (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents).

• This service does NOT

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

apply to Adult Renewals unless your Passport is expired for 5+ years.

Town Clerk LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa.  Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and during this special Passport Weekend.  For appointments in Oyster Bay, please call (516) 624-6324.  For appointments in Massapequa, please call (516) 797-7962.

For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit www.travel.state.gov.

Town blood drive

planned for September 26

With hospitals facing a nationwide blood shortage, the Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to attend a Blood Collection Drive on Thursday, September 26, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 S. Broadway in Hicksville.

Town Clerk Richard LaMarca stated, “Blood supplies are critically needed for local hospitals to meet the demand and continue saving lives. Please consider participating in this blood drive to help bolster our blood banks and ensure as many people as possible can be helped. Together, we can give the gift of life though a simple blood donation.”

Appointments are preferred for the Town’s Blood Drive. To qualify as a donor, a person must be between the ages of 17 and 75 years old (16 with parental permission and 76 or older with a doctor’s note), weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood

within the last 56 days. Anyone who received a tattoo within the past three months is ineligible to donate. It is recommended that donors eat well (low fat) and drink fluids in the days before the Blood Drive. Additionally, all donors will receive a voucher for a free Blizzard at Dairy Queen.

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino added, “It’s quick, easy, and safe to donate a single pint of blood which can save up to three lives. Donating blood at the Hicksville Athletic Center, is an incredible way for all of us to pitch in and give back, to help ease the burden of our Healthcare Heroes as they continue to provide lifesaving efforts.”

For additional information regarding the Town’s Blood Drive, contact (516) 624-6380. To make an appointment to donate at this Blood Drive, sign up today at www.oysterbaytown.com/ blooddrive

Car show returns to TOBAY Beach on September 22

Long Island’s largest and most premier car show experience returns to TOBAY Beach on Sunday, September 22, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  “Car Show Long Island” features hundreds of automobiles, trucks, military vehicles, and emergency service vehicles. A live concert performed by Vinyl Revival will take place during the day, followed by trophy presentations. The event is free for spectators. Free shuttle bus service will now also be offered to all Car Show Long Island spectators with convenient pickup and drop-off located at Jones Beach Field 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..

Supervisor Saladino stated, “Whether you’re a proud classic car owner or you want to see the latest and greatest automobiles in the world, Car Show Long Island is the place to be!  With a diverse range of vehicles showcased, car enthusiasts will have the opportunity to admire and interact with some of the most impressive cars around. This free family-fun event is a perfect way to spend the day, all with the beautiful backdrop of TOBAY Beach. Spectators can check out cool cars, vendors, exhibits and enjoy live music while surrounded by Long

Island’s best classic, muscle, antique and exotic cars.”

Car Show Long Island’s 2024 TOBAY Beach Spring Classic features some of the hottest and most classic cars in the tri-state region. While enjoying live music performed by Vinyl Revival and great eats from the Food Truck Corral presented by Eagle Chevy Performance, thousands of spectators are expected throughout the day to get up close and personal with Long Island’s best classic, muscle, antique and exotic cars. Trophies will be awarded in each class, and children will have a say when deeming which rides are their favorites in the Kids’ Choice Award. Car Show Long Island’s 2024 TOBAY Beach Spring Classic is being presented by: Optimum, Signarama of Huntington and Whitey’s Tire Services of Brooklyn.

Classic Car enthusiasts and spectators can also grab a bite to eat from the food truck corral, and can also check out numerous vendors and displays. A rain date of September 29 has been arranged. For more information, visit www.carshowli.com, call (516) 797-4121 or e-mail carshowli@ oysterbay-ny.gov.

Bethpage kicks off the 2024–25 school year

Students throughout the Bethpage Union Free School District returned to school with excitement on Sept. 3, marking the start of the 2024–25 school year. From Bethpage High School to JFK Middle School and the three elementary schools—Charles Campagne, Kramer Lane, and Central Boulevard—students were warmly welcomed by administra-

tors, teachers, and staff. The day was filled with reconnecting with friends, getting acquainted with new teachers, and settling into their classrooms. As students unpacked their supplies and began to learn new routines, the district set a positive tone for the year ahead. Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Students at JFK Middle School are happy to be back for the 2024–25 school year. A young Charles Campagne student wears a crown of achievement for completing his first day of kindergarten.

Students are all smiles as they exit Bethpage High School after their first day back for the new school year. School buses line up outside Bethpage High School on the first day of school.

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September 13, 2024

Road Trips for Leaf Peeping

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Autumn colors invite leaf-peeping by car, bike and campervan. Here are some of the best routes to steer your travels:

Roadtrippers Names Six Lesser-Known All-American Roads for a Memorable Fall Road Trip

There are National Scenic Byways and then there are Think of AllAmerican Roads – a category above. These wholly American thoroughfares pass through 28 states, and automotive travelers can expect extra special features – beyond natural beauty –when they explore them. With fall season fast approaching, the road trip experts at Roadtrippers have compiled a list of six of their favorite routes to explore when the trees change color and the temperature becomes crisp.

To be designated a scenic byway, roads must have one of six intrinsic qualities: archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational or scenic. All-American Roads must have at least two of those qualities, and that’s what makes these routes extra special. While both National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads must be designated by the Scenic Byways division of the Federal Highway Administration, becoming an All-American Road means that travel on that road is a major part of the travel experience, or a “destination unto itself.” In other words, it’s not just another road with pretty scenery.

As of 2021, the last time the Federal Highway Administration added to its lineup of Scenic Byways, there are 150 Scenic Byways but only 37 AllAmerican Roads.

Biking on the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, outside of New Haven, Connecticut, one of Rails to Trails’ recommended scenic railtrails to ride this fall © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Roadtrippers staffers spend their workdays – and often their free time too – thinking about road trips and devising new ways to make the features of the app even more useful to travelers who love their automotive adventures. One of the latest features, introduced this spring, is the app’s new Autopilot feature, which uses patent-pending AI technology to allow users to customize their road trips based on their personal travel style.

The feature is especially useful to travelers planning multi-day trips, as they the app helps find accommodations that suit travelers’ needs, and it identifies roadside stops – called  Extraordinary Places – that travelers can select based on their interests.

Here are Roadtrippers’ top six picks for an epic All-American Road adventure this fall:

Historic National Road in Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Ohio,

Pennsylvania and West Virginia: This 824-mile Midwestern road –known as U.S. Route 40 – became the first federally funded interstate highway in the U.S. more than 200 years ago.  It is historically significant because it opened a route for goods to be transported across the country. The route even has its own  headquarters and visitor center located in Uniontown, Pa. Plan at least 2½ days to experience some of the classic inns, diners and historic hotels that dot the path.

San Juan Skyway, Colorado: Travelers who are comfortable with some serious mountain driving will find this 233-mile route not only breathtaking in the fall – the region is known for its stunning yellow Aspens – but also a clear reminder of the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples who lived there centuries ago. The aptly named route summits at more than 14,000 ft., offering views of

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

the towering San Juan Mountains. Travelers pass ancient pueblo ruins and travel through classic towns. There are hot springs and even a narrow-gauge railroad for travelers who want to linger in this famed Colorado destination Great River Road, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Wisconsin: This 2,069-mile route follows the Mississippi River from the Gulf of Mexico to northern Minnesota, and it reminds travelers of how the mighty river impacted the lives of indigenous peoples such as the Chippewa and Dakota and slaves seeking freedom on the Underground Railroad. Travelers can expect to see numerous Extraordinary Places along the way, such as the  Birthplace of Judy Garland, with a fun museum and shop (note: it’s  not in Kansas), and the  Mastodon State Historic Site. Interestingly, the Great River Road is an All-American Road in eight of the states it traverses but not in Mississippi and Missouri, where the road is designated a National Scenic Byway.

North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota: The Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive is a terrific way to spend a colorful fall day. The 154-mile route encircles the shoreline of Lake Superior and showcases spectacular scenery throughout the fall. Travelers will see classic lighthouses and gorgeous waterfalls and pass through charming towns with historic inns, shops and museums.

Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway, Maryland: Although it is called a scenic byway, this 419-mile All-American Road is another good choice for an afternoon drive. Or you can take a few days and explore

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GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Road Trips for Leaf Peeping

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the many recreational and cultural attractions along the way. The route celebrates the lives of the farmers, shipbuilders, fishermen and others who worked the waters. Summer is a good season to travel the route too, as one of the towns along the way, Eaton, is home to one of the  largest plein air festivals in the world in July.

Northwest Passage Scenic Byway, Idaho: History buffs will enjoy traveling this 202-mile north-central  Idaho road showcasing the route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition as they searched for the Northwest Passage. Travelers will also see the places settled by the Nez Perce tribe as well as abundant cultural and recreational attractions.

Roadtrippers road trip planning app is designed to streamline discovery, planning, booking and navigation into an engaging and intuitive process. .

Rails to Trails: Five Top Trails to Bike this Fall

Exploring a new trail by bicycle offers a refreshing way to enjoy nature’s seasonal transition. Rails to Trails Conservancy, which advocates for converting obsolete rail lines into recreational trails and guides cyclists to the trails with its TrailLink, has compiled this list of five fantastic trails from around the country that are ideal in fall:

Banks-Vernonia State Trail : The Banks-Vernonia State Trail meanders 23 miles through forests and pastoral farmland northwest of Portland, Oregon. Thirteen bridges provide amazing views of the Coast Range and provides access to side paths displaying

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Ever wondered what mindful eating is all about? It’s the opposite of dashboard dining, desktop lunches and grab-and-go dinners.

Mindful eating isn’t about what you eat, but how -- recognizing that food and mealtimes are about more than fuel and are meant to be enjoyed.

The term “mindfulness” is defined as “paying attention in a particular way, on purpose in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally” by Jon Kabat-Zinn, leader of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He’s the author of the book “Full Catastrophe Living.” Kabat-Zinn goes on to define mindful eating as an approach to food that focuses on individuals’ sensual awareness of food and the experience of eating food. It has less to do with calories and nutrients and more to do with savoring the moment and

railroad relics and to a number of rivers and creeks.

Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: First a canal, then a railroad, and now a trail, the nearly completed Farmington Canal Heritage Trail spans Connecticut south to north, from New Haven to the Massachusetts border, for nearly 50 miles. The paved pathway runs through fields, farms and forests, as well as areas of residential and commercial development.

Monon Trail: Stretching across central Indiana, the 27.1-mile Monon Trail connects Indianapolis neighborhoods, Carmel, and the northern suburbs of Westfield and Sheridan. The trail offers a mix of lively Midwest towns and scenic countryside.

Cherry Creek Regional Trail: The Cherry Creek Regional Trail is a picturesque 47.8-mile route that connects downtown Denver with the suburban and rural Arapahoe and Douglas counties. Paralleling Cherry Creek, the trail meanders through urban landscapes, parks, and a variety of suburban and rural areas.

Silver Comet Trail: Situated northwest of Atlanta, Georgia the Silver Comet Trail runs over 60 miles through landscapes of pine stands and farmland in the west, and more residential areas in the east. The rail-trail gets its name from the shiny Silver Comet passenger train that provided luxury service between New York and Birmingham in the mid-1900s. Today, three trestles along the trail provide scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Get out on any of these amazing trails with Rails to Trails

NUTRITION NEWS

Mindful Eating

each bite.

In a 2017 article, “Mindful Eating: The Art of Presence While You Eat,” published in Diabetes Spectrum, author Joseph Nelson offers ideas on how mindful eating can shift how you think about food and how it can help you make better choices and build a healthier relationship with food.

Here are a few steps to get started:

No. 1: Check in with your hunger. It’s best to eat something when you’re slightly to moderately hungry so you can slow down and eat mindfully. You want an appetite but not to be ravenous.

No. 2: Limit distractions at the table. Disconnect from your phone or the television. Eat your meals at the table rather than standing at a counter, so you are fully present.

No. 3: Start with gratitude and appreciate the food in front of you.

No. 4: Pay attention to your food. What does it look like, smell like? What does it feel like in your mouth? How does it sound

Conservancy’s  TrailLink (traillink. com). Rails to Trails’s advocacy has helped create 41,400 miles of multiuse trails across the country – safe, off-road routes for walking, biking and being active; 150 trailnetworks with at least one in eachstate,$24 billion in federal funding for projects and connected 90 million through TrailLink. Its latest project is to advocate for the creation of the Great American RailTrail, which would link Washington DC to Washington State, 3,700 miles on connected railtrail networks. Visit railstotrails.org for information and to get involved.

Take a Scenic Road Trip by Campervan of Bavaria Munich’s 189th Oktoberfest, taking place in Munich from September 21 to October 6, 2024 will again draw millions to the Bavarian capital for a deep dive into local culture. But, after days of partying, Munich-based  roadsurfer RV rental suggests renting a small, fully-equipped campervan and hit the road to explore Bavaria’s stunning landscapes, castles, and villages. Here are their suggestions for a 4, 5, or 6-day road trip:

4-Day Alpine Campervan Round Trip from Munich: First stop: Garmisch-Partenkirchen; Füssen (Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles); Oberstdorf in the Allgäu region (stop at King Ludwig’s Linderhof Palace); Lake Constance, historic Lindau; back to Munich via a scenic drive to Berchtesgaden (historic Eagle’s Nest or take a boat ride on the Königssee). If time allows, stop at Lake Chiemsee before returning your roadsurfer.

5-Day Fall Trip along the German Alpine Road, a 280-mile scenic route from Lake Constance to Königssee. Pick up your campervan in Munich and drive to Füssen (Neuschwanstein Castle Hohenschwangau Castle); Oberammergau; Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Partnach Gorge); Walchensee Tegernsee, Herrenchiemsee Palace, Königssee (boat toSt. Bartholomew’s Church); Ramsau, Schönau; hike sto Obersee the next morning for lake views, before returning to Munich.

6-Day Romantic Road: Culture and History: From Munich drive to Landsberg am Lech; Augsburg (Fuggerei, Augsburg Cathedral); medieval Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Medieval Crime Museum, Rathaus tower, overnight in Taubertal nature reserve); Würzburg (Würzburg Residence and Marienberg Fortress); Dinkelsbühl (old town walls, St. George’s Minster, Weinmarkt); Füssen (Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles). Camp near Füssen for the final night.

Camping: For routes and camping spaces go to  roadsurfer spots, an appbased booking platform with access to 10,000 individual private camping spots (currently available in Europe only).

Roadsurfer, a Munich-based RV/ campervan rental, operates a European network of 70 locations in 14 countries, plus North America on the U.S. West Coast, Vancouver and Calgary. The company offers a total fleet of 8000 vehicles, making Roadsurfer a worldwide market leader. Their compact, lifestyle-oriented campervans and RVs are fully equipped and come road trip ready. Bookings include unlimited miles and a free second driver.

when you chew it? What flavors do you detect?

No. 5: Eat slowly. Take time to chew your food and savor the flavors. You may have to set down your fork between bites. It takes 20 minutes for your stomach to signal the brain it’s full. Give yourself time to feel that.

I often have my patients time how long it takes them to eat a single Hershey’s Kiss, practicing mindful eating and letting the chocolate melt in their mouths. Most find after letting it melt, their mouth is saturated with chocolate, and they don’t want another one; they’re satisfied.

That’s the point of mindful eating -taking time to really enjoy what you eat

Q AND A

Q: Bone broth seems to be a popular food now. Does it help with weight loss?

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More information and booking at https://roadsurfer.com/ © 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

BY LOU THEODORE

Why vertigo? Some time ago, I got hit with a bad case of vertigo. It was truly a frightening experience. I was rushed to the ER and subjected to a battery of tests before being sent home. I was diagnosed with vertigo and informed not to worry. They added that it might or might not come back and could last a few weeks. I wasn’t too happy with what I was told. Here’s what I then came up with on researching this “disease.”

Vertigo is defined as a sensation of personally spinning around or of seeing nearby objects revolve. It has often been described by such words as tilting, unbalanced, and pulling in one direction. It tends to be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, hearing loss and/or ringing in the ears. As noted above, the disease generally lasts only short times during which the vertigo is usually brief and intermittent.

The causes of vertigo? Vertigo is often caused by an inner ear problem. Some of the most common causes include:

1. BPPV. These initials stand for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

On Vertigo

BPPV occurs when tiny calcium particles (canaliths) are dislodged from another location and collect in the inner ear. BPPV can occur for no known reason and may be associated with age (Hello!).

2. Meniere’s disease. This is an inner ear disorder thought to be caused by a buildup of fluid and changing pressure in the ear. It can cause episodes of vertigo along with the aforementioned ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.

3. Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis. This is an inner ear problem usually related to infection (usually viral). The infection causes inflammation in the inner ear around nerves that are important for helping the body sense balance. It may also be associated with:

a. Head or neck injuries.

b. Brain problems such as stroke or tumor

c. Certain medications that cause ear damage

d. Migraine headaches

The treatment for vertigo? The treatment for vertigo depends on what’s causing it. In many cases, vertigo goes away without any treatment. This is

because the brain is able to adapt, at least in part, to any inner ear changes, relying on other mechanisms to maintain balance. Here are some treatment options:

1. Vestibular rehabilitation. This is a type of physical therapy aimed at helping strengthen the vestibular system. The function of the vestibular system is to send signals to the brain about head and body movements relative to gravity. Vestibular rehab may be recommended if there are recurrent bouts of vertigo; this can help train your other senses to compensate for vertigo.

2. Canalith repositioning maneuvers. Guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology recommend a series of specific head and body movements. The movements are performed to move any calcium deposits out of the canal into an inner ear chamber so they can be absorbed by the body; these movements normally include eye and head exercises. This treatment will likely be accompanied by vertigo symptoms during the procedure as the deposits are repositioned. A doctor or physical therapist can provide instructions on these movements. These movements are safe and often effective.

3. Medicine. In some cases, medication may be given to relieve symptoms such as nausea, or motion sickness associated with vertigo. If vertigo is caused by an infection or inflammation, antibiotics or steroids may reduce swelling and cure infection. Diuretics (water pills) may be prescribed to reduce pressure from fluid buildup.

4. Surgery. In a few cases, surgery may be needed for vertigo. If vertigo is caused by a more serious underlying problem, such as a tumor or injury to the brain or neck, treatment for those problems may help to alleviate the vertigo.

In discussing my vertigo experiences with others, I was shocked to find out how many people had similar experiences. Unfortunately, it seems to be a commonplace disease.

Visit the author at: www.theodorenewsletter.com and / or Basketball Coaching 101 on Facebook

Note: I will be presenting a seminar tutorial on gambling (particularly dice) Wednesday, September 25 at the Village of East Williston Library, 2 Prospect Street, East Williston, at 7:00 PM. Entry is free and refreshments will be served.

Continued from previous page

A: Bone broth is made by simmering animal bones in water and a small amount of an acid, like vinegar. The acid helps dissolve the bone, releasing collagen and minerals into the water. Collagen, a protein, is a key component of connective tissue, so it has been suggested consuming collagen is good for skin and joints, but research does not back this. Bone broth has been marketed as helpful in weight loss because the protein helps with satiety. However, fiber is much more effective than protein in this regard, and bone broth has no fiber. In addition, bone broth isn’t a high-protein food. A cup of bone broth with extra collagen has 15 grams of protein, far less than what you’d get from a 3-ounce serving of beef or chick-

en. Drinking a glass of water or eating a broth-based soup before meals will be just as effective as consuming bone broth before a meal. If you like the taste of bone broth, enjoy it. But know that it doesn’t have any special weight-loss powers.

RECIPE

If you’re like me, the grill is close enough to use year-round. Here’s a recipe for maple thyme grilled chicken thighs that’s simple and juicy with a touch of sweetness. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal with vegetables or a backyard cookout. The recipe is from LivelyTable.com.

MAPLE THYME GRILLED CHICKEN THIGHS

Servings: 6

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons fresh thyme

2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary

3 cloves garlic, minced 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Trim excess fat from chicken thighs. Whisk soy sauce, oil, maple syrup, pepper, thyme, rosemary and garlic together. Pour marinade over chicken thighs in a large container or zip-close bag. Marinate chicken for 30 minutes or more in the refrigerator. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Place chicken on the grill over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until char lines appear. Move chicken to indirect heat (a top or side rack on the grill) to finish cooking

until internal temperature of chicken reaches 165 F, about 5-10 minutes more. Remove from grill and serve. Serves 6. Per serving: 342 calories; 39.2 grams protein; 5.3 grams carbohydrate; 17.6 grams fat (3.5 grams saturated); .2 grams fiber; 4 grams sugars; 190 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.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

When and How To File for Social Security Benefits

BY TOM MARGENAU

There is probably nothing I am asked more often than some version of this question: “When should I file for my Social Security?” But as I’ve said repeatedly in this column, I am not a financial planner. So I really can’t advise you about the best time to start your Social Security benefits. I can tell you that there is no magic or secret formula. It’s simply a decision only you can make after considering such things as your health and your financial situation.

But what I can do is explain Social Security rules to help you make that decision. In my book “Social Security -- Simple and Smart,” I have a whole chapter devoted to this topic. You can order the book online at Amazon.

Whether you make that decision on your own or with the help of my book or a financial planner, once you decide the month you want your benefits to start, many of you still want to know how far in advance you should file for those benefits. That is the “when to file” advice I am offering in this column.

Your Social Security eligibility date is always a month, not a day. For example, let’s say you were born April 22, 1958, and you want your benefits to start at your full retirement age. The full retirement age for people born in 1958 is 66 and 8 months. So, you will reach full retirement age on December 22, 2024. But the day you reach FRA isn’t really an issue; it’s the month that is key. In other words, your eligibility date isn’t December 22, 2024; it’s just December 2024.

The Social Security Administration recommends that you file three months before your eligibility month. So, if you wanted your benefits to start in December, you could file beginning anytime this month.

I used to advise people that there really was no need to rush because most Social Security retirement claims are very simple, and the SSA processed them in literally a matter of days. In the past, I would have told people whose eligibility date is December that they could even wait until November if they wanted, and there would be a very good chance their first check would show up on time. But staffing cutbacks and other issues seem to have messed things up at the SSA. I’ve heard from so many readers who report to me about delays in either getting through to the SSA in the first place or delays in getting their benefits started. I guess my motto for the time being is this: Better safe than sorry. So file your Social Security claim three months before your first eligibility month.

But don’t let me scare you. Once you contact the SSA, you’ve established what they call a “protective filing date,” and your rights to benefits are guaranteed from that month forward. For example, let’s say you wanted your benefits to start in December 2024. But for whatever rea-

son, you didn’t get around to filing your claim until sometime in December. Even though your claim might not finish processing until a few months later, you will be paid back to December.

Also remember this: Don’t overthink the question on the application that asks which month you want your benefits to start. If you want December 2024 to be your starting month, then that is the month you indicate on the form. Don’t put January 2025 because you know the December check is sent to you in January. The question isn’t asking which month you want your first Social Security check to show up in your bank account. It is asking what your first eligibility month for benefits is.

That’s the “when to file” message. So now let’s tackle the “how to file” issue.

Probably 90% of us have rather straightforward Social Security claims. That means you are just filing for your own Social Security benefits. In that case, I strongly recommend you file online at www.socialsecurity.gov. It’s simple and easy. I did so a few years back, and it probably took me all of a half-hour to finish the process. Check the website yourself and see how easy it is.

If you do have a scenario that you think might be complicated (such as trying to get a combination of retirement and spousal benefits), then you should probably do that in person. Call the SSA at 800772-1213 to set up a phone interview or an in-person interview at your local Social Security office.

And if you are filing for widow’s benefits, that must be done by phone or in person. Claims for widow’s benefits cannot be done online. That’s because there may be filing options a widow has that are more easily explained by talking to someone in person.

What documents do you need to file for my Social Security benefits? It depends on the kind of benefit you are trying to get. Think of it this way: You usually have to provide some kind of evidence to support your eligibility for such benefits. For example, if it’s a retirement claim, you need to prove you are old enough to qualify. To do that, you need a birth certificate. If you are filing for spousal benefits, you need to prove not only your age, but also that you are married to the person on whose Social Security record you are applying. For that, you need a marriage certificate. If you are a divorced spouse, you also need to provide your divorce papers. If you want to apply for widow’s benefits, in addition to proving your age and marriage, you need a death certificate. In all cases, the SSA wants to see original copies of these documents or copies certified by the record issuer.

One document you don’t need is your Social Security card. I hear from panicky people all the time who tell me they are about to file for Social Security benefits but can’t find their SSN card. I tell them to relax. You do not need the card when you

sign up for Social Security. And speaking of Social Security numbers, many divorced women tell me they are pretty sure they might be due benefits on an ex-spouse’s Social Security record. But they don’t have the guy’s Social Security number, and they are worried they won’t get the benefits without the number. In these cases, the SSA will be able to find the ex’s SSN. They might need some

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Saving on your real estate taxes is a simple process

Grieving your real estate taxes is the first step in saving money. It can be accomplished by yourself or by hiring a company to file and complete the process. It can take up to 18 months to obtain the results, so patience is required. However, there are some misconceptions about filing a grievance and you should be aware of them.

1.) Filing a grievance could result in increasing my taxes. In NYS and Nassau County, it states that’s not the case. Nassau County’s official site, states that “The Assessment Review Commission will never increase the assessment” when you file your grievance.

2.) Filing a tax grievance will not create a situation, where Nassau officials will personally inspect your home. Instead, they will use comparable sales which is public information to determine the value of your home in computing your real estate taxes. So there would be no necessity to come out and visit your home.

3.) Filing a grievance most of the time will not require you to appear for a formal hearing with the Small Claims Assessment Review. When hiring a company they would be the responsible party, if necessary.

4.) You probably have received multiple offers to grieve your real estate taxes. However, you can only hire (or do it yourself) one company each year to represent you when grieving your taxes

5.) Grieving your taxes once is all you have to do. This is a misconception. Taxes can increase yearly, so grieving them yearly will be a prudent path to be sure you can keep them as

Continued from previous page identifying information from you (such as his name, his date and place of birth, etc.), but you should be able to provide them with that.

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

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

low as possible. If you pay local taxes, grieving them will allow you to lower them. The filing period for Nassau County is January 2-March 1 of each year. You can check tax. ny.gov. All the necessary forms are located there for you to file your grievance. Also, it will show the areas outside of Nassau and how to file your grievance. Be aware that this is only for your primary residence. Being a Civil servant or a Veteran will have additional benefits. You can also find more information on nyassembly.gov

and real estate taxes if you itemized on your Federal tax return. This was detrimental to NYS residents or any state with higher real estate taxes. More information can be found at tax. thomsonreuters.com.

Always take the name and ID of the person you are talking to for future reference.

There is another way to save on your real estate taxes. The STAR Exemption allowed homeowners who purchased after March 1, 2015, In NYS, a credit on their yearly school tax bill. One must apply for STAR credit (receiving a check yearly, which can be used to pay towards your school taxes) by June 15, or STAR exemption by March 1, which will provide a credit towards your yearly school taxes. There are income maximums to be qualified to receive these benefits, so you will need to check.

The SALT Deduction changed how one could deduct their state and local taxes for 2018. Under Ex-President Trump, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted in December 2017, decreased the amount you could deduct from your Federal tax return. The maximum deduction became $10,000 for state and local taxes. Before that time it was the total of State, local, sales,

Some homeowners still haven’t grieved their real estate taxes or have taken appropriate action to apply for their STAR credit or exemption. I am not sure if this is because of ignorance in not knowing what to do or just plain laziness. However, if you are one of those homeowners, there are enough valuable resources to become educated in saving you money on your yearly real estate taxes. You can go online to determine which companies have the best reviews and who have saved Nassau residents the most money.

We all complain about our escalating real estate taxes, but not everyone does something to make a change about it. You have to take the first step and start and make a concerted effort to reduce your real estate taxes. If you don’t have internet access and need more information and want to register, then call (518)457-2036 on weekdays 8:30 to 4:30. However, going online to tax. ny.gov and scrolling down to the STAR exemption information will provide you with the necessary information that you will need. They will ask you for your primary address, income on your most recent tax returns, most recent school tax bill, Social Security numbers for all owners, the date you purchased the property, and more.

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

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

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

Over 50 Fair planned for September 22nd

The Over 50 Fair, in its 15th year, returns to the Hilton Long Island/ Huntington on Sunday, September 22 from 10am to 4:30pm.

Each year, Baby Boomers, seniors, and those a bit younger meet with over 80 exhibitors and attend over 25 classes geared toward them. The Over 50 Fair annually entertains and educates hundreds of Long Islanders.

The classes are always hugely popular at the event, and each year there is tremendous variety. This year’s classes include “Zumba,” presented by Laura O’Shea of the YMCA of Long Island; “Google: More Than a Search Engine,” presented by Rich Levitan of Family Service League, SeniorNet LI; “How to Improve Your Dating and Sex Life After 50” with Maureen Tara Nelson; and Astrology – What is in Your Stars?” presented by Terry Lauria-Whalen of Your Enchanted Tree. Additional classes will include talks on clutter control, Medicare, ghost hunting, and two fitness and self-defense classes. The schedule of all classes can be found at www.Over50Fair.com/class-list.

Businesses and non-profits promote local products and services, including health and wellness, education, travel, and financial services, plus some less expected, such as several book authors and psychics.

Over 50 Fair is the brainchild of East Hills resident Barbara Kaplan, who also coordinates the very successful All Kids Fair each April. She said the Over 50 Fair is “Overflowing with Opportunities

for Age 50+.” She emphasized that “this is NOT a typical ‘senior fair.’ It is an opportunity for people to learn, interact, and have fun. Our guests can meet with many experts in their fields all in one place,” she added.

Some of this year’s “draws” will be “arts and crafts for adults” with One River School of Art + Design, a singles lounge, compliments of MTN Matchmaking, and a live acoustic music showcase, presented by Carrie Creative Concepts.

Six acoustic musicians will be performing a variety of types of music.

James Erxleben of North American Pandas who will be playing various acoustic rock and popular music favorites from the The Beatles to Kurt Cobain. Vickie and the Acoustic Gents will be playing soulful vocal and high energy music from the 70’s through today’s artists, including great duets.

Free hearing screenings will be offered by Anywhere Audiology. There will be free blood pressure checks, energy wellness scans, and reiki healings available.

The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network), a local non-profit that helps Long Island’s needy, will be in attendance collecting non-perishable food and funds. Those who donate will receive raffle tickets to win terrific donated prizes.

In addition to the hotel’s restaurants, Dashboard Diner’s food truck will be at the rear of the hotel

Tickets are $5 in advance at www.

Over50Fair.com, which includes all classes, exhibits, singles lounge, music performances, health screenings, arts & crafts, and more. Those who purchase tickets online will receive a raffle ticket at the event for a special door prize raffle. Tickets are also available at the door for $7, and it is free for Veterans to attend with ID.

This year’s event sponsors are Acupuncture Wellness Services, Men on the Move, Optum Medical Care,

Wellcare, Healthfirst, AARP Long Island, East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, CenterLight Healthcare PACE, Jake’s 58, Schneps Long Island, The Garden City News, Herald Community Newspapers, 102.3 WBAB/106.1 BLI and 516Ads.com/631Ads.com.

For more information about this and future events, visit www.Over50Fair. com. Barbara Kaplan can be reached at 516-621-1446.

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Kitchen Hacks You’ll Actually Use

BY MARY HUNT

Fast food runs, deli detours and a grocery cart loaded with preprepared food can drain a food budget faster than a houseful of hungry teenagers. The secret to slashing your family’s food bill is to cook at home. And the way to become confident in the kitchen is to learn a few strategic “trucs” of the trade.

Truc (rhymes with “fluke”) is a French word that means a trick -- not like a magic trick or illusion, but more of a shortcut, secret or a way to do something better, cheaper, easier and faster.

PERFECT RICE

Saute 1 cup of rice in 2 tablespoons of oil in a saucepan over medium heat until the kernels are well-coated and begin to turn bright white. Add 1 cup of water, bring to a boil, stir and reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes undisturbed. Remove from the heat (no peeking!) and wait for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve. This trick scales up easily -- just keep the rice-to-water ratio equal.

PERFECT BOILED POTATOES

Say goodbye to mushy boiled potatoes that fall apart. Fill a pot with enough

cold water to cover the peeled potatoes by about an inch. Add a tablespoon of vinegar (white or apple cider works well) for every 2-3 quarts of water. The vinegar helps the potatoes maintain their shape and prevents them from getting too mushy.

PERFECT CUPCAKES

To make rich, moist “gourmet” cupcakes, skip the muffin tins and paper liners. Grease and flour heavy ovenproof porcelain coffee cups. Fill with your favorite cake or muffin batter to 2/3 full. Bake in a preheated oven at 325 F for 20-25 minutes. Allow to cool for a few minutes, then invert the cups to pop out the cakes.

PERFECT PATTIES

Make perfectly shaped burger patties by tossing them against your cutting board to get rid of air bubbles, then pressing a dimple into the middle to keep them from puffing up too much.

TENDER, MOIST CHICKEN

When cooking a whole chicken, chicken parts or boneless skinless breasts in liquid (braising, boiling or stewing), make sure it never comes to a full boil, not even for a moment. Once you see that liquid starting to move, turn the heat

down so it remains just below the boiling point. This is the secret to moist and tender chicken every time.

FRESH BASIL YEAR-ROUND

To enjoy “fresh” basil all year long, wash and pat the leaves dry between towels, then pick off the unbruised leaves from the stems. Pack them in a jar and cover completely with olive oil. Close the lid tightly and refrigerate. Use the “fresh” basil as needed throughout the year, along with the wonderful basil-flavored oil.

QUICK CHILL

Champagne, beer and white wines are best served very cold, around 43 F. That usually takes at least an hour in the refrigerator. But you can cut that time to 20 minutes or less: Fill an ice bucket halfway with ice cubes, pour in several cups of cold water, and add 4 tablespoons of salt. Plunge the beverage bottle into the ice bucket, adding additional water and ice until the bucket is full. In 10-12 minutes, your beverage will be perfectly chilled.

RESTORE SUGARED HONEY

To bring crystallized honey back to its luscious, drizzly state, place the contain-

er in a bowl of hot water until the honey is smooth and runny (5 to 10 minutes). Alternatively, remove the lid and microwave the jar in 30-second intervals, checking after each round.

TAKE TURKEY TEMP

Slide the thermometer into the thigh horizontally, just until it touches the bone, and then pull it out slightly. Once it registers 165 F in the thigh -- the slowest-cooking part of the bird -- Thanksgiving dinner is ready!

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

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of September 15-21, 2024

Since you’re reading this column, you may be one of the few who is treated to an interesting celestial phenomenon this week: a partial eclipse of the moon.

The reason most will miss it is because this eclipse isn’t a biggie. In fact, less than 9% of the moon’s diameter will be covered by the Earth’s dark shadow. When I say “partial” eclipse, I’m not joking!

You may already know that solid objects like the Earth cast two shadows -- a dark, inner one known as the “umbra,” and a light outer one known as the “penumbra.”

You can demonstrate this for yourself by finding a bright light bulb and casting the shadow of your hand onto a wall. What is most obvious is the dark, inner umbral shadow, but look carefully around its edge. There you’ll see the lighter, blurrier penumbral shadow.

When it comes to casting a shadow, the Earth is no different than your hand, except that its shadow extends more than 800,000 miles into space, well beyond the orbit of our moon. And, on the night of Tuesday, Sept. 17, the full moon will drift into these shadows and produce an eclipse we can see from here.

Don’t expect too much, though. While the moon will pass completely into the Earth’s penumbral shadow,

STARGAZERS

A (Very) Partial Lunar Eclipse

you may notice nothing different about the moon’s appearance.

The “big show” comes later, when the moon barely skims along the bottom of our planet’s umbra. This occurs during the early evening hours, but when you see it will depend on where you are.

Skywatchers on the East Coast will see the umbral shadow first falling onto the very top of the moon around 10:12 p.m., with the moon midway up in the eastern sky. Because of time zone differences, the eclipse will be seen earlier the farther west you are; those on the West Coast will watch the umbral phase begin at 7:12 p.m., not long after the moon has risen.

The whole thing will appear to end 64 minutes later, even though the moon will remain engulfed by the penumbral shadow for another hour and a half.

Unlike an eclipse of the sun, a lunar eclipse is perfectly safe to watch without a protective filter. All you need is your eyes, though viewing with binoculars or a small telescope can be fun as well. And, unlike many celestial phenomena, you won’t need to drive to a dark site far from city lights; you’ll be able to see it from just about anywhere.

To see a preview of this eclipse from your location, visit timeanddate.com and click on “Sun, Moon & Space.” Then, in the dropdown menu, click on “Eclipses.” Here you can select the

eclipse you’d like to see and even enter your location to produce a great simulation.

If clouds or a memory lapse causes you to miss it, you’ll have to wait only until the night of Thursday/Friday, March 13/14, 2025, for the next one. On that night, the moon will become A partial lunar eclipse, in which 9% of

the moon’s diameter will be covered by Earth’s shadow, occurs this week. engulfed entirely by the Earth’s umbral shadow and will provide all of North America with a stunningly beautiful total lunar eclipse.

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com..

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Sometimes You Feel Like a Nut

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Every year around this time, I get inundated with emails telling me about the latest fall trends and what I should buy and what I should toss. Having been down this wardrobe rabbit hole before, I didn’t want to make a fall fashion faux pas, such as I did last year, when one trendsetting site told me the “it” shoe was a pointed witchy boot that was so tight it nearly made my pinky toes fall off.

So this year I cross-referenced all the fashion sources to see what everyone agreed on.

And the consensus was ... pistachio. The big fall color was pistachio.

As photos of pretty clothes in hideous shades of pistachio swam before my eyes, I wondered, who decides these things and, for goodness’ sake, why

pistachio? Pistachio is not even a good color for a nut, much less a woman over 50 with a fading summer tan. Generally, I tend not to do well with clothing colors that are named for foods. I don’t look good in eggplant or cantaloupe or mustard, so I didn’t hold out much hope for pistachio. And really, calling a color “pistachio” doesn’t distract from the fact that it is basically just ugly green. It falls somewhere on the color wheel between hospital-room green and algae, neither of which is a particularly good shade for anyone. When your clothes give you the pallor of a dead person, you know it’s time to move on.

I was duly forewarned when I hit the stores, and even though I was expecting it, the sight of all that pistachio-ness was still a shock. There were pistachio pants and pistachio coats and even little

with her pistachio.

A woman with pistachio-painted fingernails breezed by on her way to the racks of pistachio-colored palazzo pants in plaid. It was all just a little bit excessive and made me long for the days of mustard and cantaloupe.

All around me, trendy women were scooping up the pistachio-colored clothing as though there was about to be a shortage of pistachios and they might be forced to settle for clothes in avocado instead. As I watched in awe, I decided it couldn’t hurt to try on one pistachio-colored coat just to see how awful it would actually look on me. I didn’t want to be one of those women who judged a trend without trying it, even if it did make me look like I’d just had food poisoning.

But as I reached for my size, another

woman in a pistachio-induced shopping frenzy reached past me and whisked the coat off the rack and into her basket.

“Excuse me,” I said. “I was just about to try that on.”

“Just take another one,” she said dismissively.

“That was the last one in my size,” I replied.

“Forget it,” she said. “I’m doing you a favor. ...

“This color would look terrible on you.”

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

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

pistachio berets for the woman who wants some panache

A partial lunar eclipse, in which 9% of the moon’s diameter will be covered by Earth’s shadow, occurs this week.

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Love to write? Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

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

BECOME A GARDEN CITY PD CROSSING GUARD

The Garden City Police Department is currently seeking

Part-time Crossing Guards for assignments throughout Garden City

All interested candidates meeting the qualifications for a GCPD Crossing Guard may obtain an application by going to the link below or by visiting the Garden City Police Department at 349 Stewart Avenue, Garden City.

Qualifications are:

• Discourage children from behaving unsafely near traffic, such as darting into the street without looking or crossing against a traffic signal. A guard can encourage safe behavior by all pedestrians at the school crossing.

• Use existing gaps in traffic to help students cross safely. When the natural traffic flow does not allow enough time for children to safely cross a street, a guard may need to create gaps by stopping traffic temporarily. The guard stops traffic with hand signals or a STOP paddle, then verbally directs children to cross the street. A guard is always the first person in the street and the last person out of the street.

• Alert motorists that pedestrians are in the process of using the school crossing.

• Observe and report any incidents or conditions that present a potential safety hazard to the school children or the guard.

• Candidates must be able to withstand inclement weather and meet minimum medical and physical requirements.

• Candidates must have a High School diploma or G.E.D.

** Starting salary for this position is $44.50 per diem.

Go to https://gardencitypolice.net/school-crossing-guards scroll to the bottom and click on the link for the Crossing Guard Application. All interested candidates meeting the above-stated criteria may also obtain an application at the Garden City Police Department.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOVENAS/PRAYERS

3 DAY NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL

Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days:

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

Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (say three times).

Holy Mary I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. When request is granted, the novena must be published. (MAK)

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail).

Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine of Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin assist me in this necessity. Oh Star of the Sea help me and show herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth I beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succor me this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to Thee (three times). Oh Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. This prayer must be said for three days and after three days your request will be granted. The prayer must be published. Grateful thanks. (T.Y.)

MARKETPLACE

MARKETPLACE

INVITED SALES

BY TRACY JORDAN

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MARKETPLACE

GARAGE SALE

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Friday & Saturday 9/13 & 9/14

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Vast selection of vintage & designer clothing, shoes, bags, furs, antiques, art, collectibles and MUCH MORE!

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If interested, please email: alid222@me.com for more details, price and a tour of what could be your next home!

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Town plans

fall fitness classes

The Town of Oyster Bay will be holding registration for its popular Co-Ed Fitness Classes which are held at the Hicksville Athletic Center. Classes run for 10 weeks and are offered to individuals 18 years of age or older.

“The Town’s popular fall co-ed recreational programs provide a great outlet for our residents to exercise and stay in shape while making new friends,” said Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh. “These fun classes offer an opportunity to stay physically active, creating an optimal environment for fitness and forging new friendships!”

This fall, residents can participate in a variety of fitness classes that will be held at the Hicksville Athletic Center:

• Ballroom Dancing: Saturdays, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., beginning October 5.

• Cardio Kick-Boxing: Thursdays, from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., beginning October 3.

• Pilates:  Mondays, from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., beginning September 30.

• Yoga:   Residents can

choose their session from the following: Saturdays (beginning October 5 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.), Sundays (beginning September 29) from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., Tuesdays (beginning October 1) from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursdays (beginning October 3) from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.

• Zumba: Mondays (beginning September 30) from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. or Wednesdays (beginning October 2) from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Registration is now available online at oysterbaytown.com/ sports. Residents must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s license. Non-residents may register at a slightly higher fee. Mats will not be provided, patrons must bring their own mats to yoga and Pilates. The schedule is subject to change. If a session is cancelled, make-up day(s) will be attempted. For more information, or to inquire about special holiday scheduling, please call (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny.gov

Children’s Snapper Derby planned for Sept. 15

The Town of Oyster Bay will be holding its 2nd Annual Snapper Derby to be featured at the famed Bluefish Tournament on Sunday, September 15, at Theodore Roosevelt Park in Oyster Bay.

“This fun family event is open to youngsters ages 14 and under with fun prizes and awards for winners, as well as giveaways for all participants,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “This fun event provides a great opportunity to introduce children to the wonderful recreational sport of fishing.”

The Snapper Derby takes place during between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., during the Town’s Bluefish Tournament, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park by the fishing pier. There is a $10 registration entry for residents and $15 for non-residents. Participants are invited to bring their own equipment, including poles and bait, as supplies are limited. Children will be placed into two age groups, ages

7 and under and 8–14. Winners will be based on number of snappers caught — catch and release only — with prizes being awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place for each age group.

“We are thrilled to bring this fun event to Theodore Roosevelt Park and invite all youngsters to sign up to participate,” said Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “There will be free refreshments, shirts and raffles for all participants, as well as awards and prizes for top winners.”

For more information on registration, residents can contact the Town’s Recreation Office at (516) 797-7945. Registration is now open on the Town’s website, at www.oysterbaytown.com/portal, and in-person at Town Hall South in Massapequa, the Causeway Bait & Tackle in Wantagh, Duffy’s Bait & Tackle in Glenwood Landing, and at the Hi-Hook Bait & Tackle in Huntington.

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA? Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity? We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be

Jericho Schools in full swing for 2024-25 year

Students unpack and get ready for the first day.

The high school cafeteria was filled with excitement.

Lots of smiles at the middle school.

These students are looking forward to a great year.

The Jayhawk greets students as they come back to school!

Jericho’s Director of Transportation Castel Stone makes sure all of the buses are running on time.

Overdose prevention, Narcan training

To help save lives and further combat the ongoing opioid epidemic on Long Island, the Town of Oyster Bay is partnering with Drug Free Long Island, Thomas’ Hope Foundation and Massapequa Park Village Mayor Daniel Pearl to host free Family Support, Overdose Prevention & Narcan Training Seminars on Monday, September 16, and Monday, September 30, at 6:30 p.m at in the downstairs meeting rooms of Massapequa Park Village Hall, located at 151 Front Street in Massapequa Park. The program will begin at 6pm with a family support group offering support to family members who have lost a loved one or have a loved one struggling with addiction, followed by a prevention workshop and overdose reversal agent training seminar at 7:30 p.m.

“We’re addressing the ongoing opioid epidemic on Long Island by offering Support, Overdose Prevention and Narcan Training Seminars for residents to learn the warning signs of drug addiction, obtain information on available treatment options, and learn how to reverse the fatal effects of an opioid overdose by administering a life-saving antidote,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said.  “Whether you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or not,

we invite you to join us in September for the betterment of our community.”

The overdose reversal agent known as Narcan is administered through a nasal spray, and is provided by the YES Community Counseling Center at no charge to trainees over the age of 18.  Under New York State law, residents can administer Narcan in an attempt to save a life, without fear of liability.

Massapequa Park Mayor Daniel Pearl stated, “Through initiatives like this, we can and will continue to save lives and keep families whole. Together with Drug Free Long Island and Thomas’ Hope Foundation, we are strengthening our community in its battle with drug use and working with mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and neighbors to identify warning signs and provide help to those struggling with addiction.”

This free Support, Overdose Prevention & Narcan Training Seminar is available to all residents.  No prior medical experience is necessary to participate. All trainees will receive a Certificate of Completion.  Anyone can attend, but seating is limited. Please RSVP to Drug Free Long Island by calling (516) 639-2386 or emailing info@ drugfreeli.org.

Bus trip to Wind Creek Casino

Catholic Daughters of the Americas will be hosting a bus trip to Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, PA, on Tuesday, September 24.

Cost of $55 per person includes the driver’s tip. Give back: $35 slot play.

SEPTEMBER 20TH

Please arrive at 8:30 a.m. Return will be approximately 8:30 p.m. Parking at 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (dead end).

For reservations, please call Barbara at (516) 935-5576. Please make checks payable to “CDA”.

Levittown sixth graders take first steps in middle schools

Sixth graders starting their middle school journeys in the Levittown School District took their first steps in their respective buildings on Aug. 27 and 28.

Jonas E. Salk and Wisdom Lane Middle Schools hosted orientation sessions for families and sixth graders to get accustomed to their new

buildings. The recent elementary school graduates heard from principals and staff on how to navigate through the transition. Students received their IDs and locks for their lockers, with some students quick to personalize their lockers with decorations. Peer Leaders guided sixth

Wisdom

graders through the halls, helping them follow their schedule and find each classroom. They also shared valuable advice about where they have found success in their schools,

such as through clubs or athletics. The orientation sessions helped ensure a smooth start to the new school year for all.

Peer Leaders played an important role in introducing the building to new students.

Lane Peer Leaders helped guide sixth graders and sold merchandise.

Jonas E. Salk Middle School sixth graders received their new locks.

Wisdom Lane Middle School sixth graders were quick to decorate their lockers during orientation on Aug. 28.

Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools

A year of success starts with the first day

Across the Levittown School District’s 10 schools, hundreds of students returned for the first day of school on Sept. 4 ready for a successful year ahead.

The return to school is a joyous time as students reunite with peers, teachers and school staff while prepared with all their necessary materials. Welcome signs signaling the first day of school adorned the schools’ front entranc-

es, promoting positivity as students entered. In each elementary school, students found their new assigned desks and organized their notebooks, pencils and markers. Classes held icebreaking activities to help students put a confident foot forward. Newcomers to kindergarten took tours of their building, exploring their gymnasium, library and art rooms.

Fourth graders were ready to embrace the new school year.

Northside Elementary School students returned to school on Sept. 4 excited to play in the gymnasium, which features a newly painted school logo.

First graders in Mrs. Podell’s class at Summit Lane Elementary School were thrilled to start the new year.

Summit Lane first graders were excited to reunite with their peers.

Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools