Syosset Advance (3/17/23)

TOB O BJECTS TO H OUSING P LAN

Business owners share breakfast, business ideas

BY GEORGE HABER

With Covid restrictions tapering off, in-person business networking groups have begun to re-emerge in the Woodbury, Jericho and Syosset areas.

Dozens of environmental advocates from Friends of the Bay, the Hempstead Harbor Protection Committee, North Shore Audubon Society, North Shore Land Alliance and Oyster Bay-Cold Spring Harbor Protection Committee joined with Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Glen Cove Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck and town and village elected officials to demand that Albany lawmakers not allow Governor Kathy Hochuls housing proposals to move forward. The governor has proposed measures which would allow the state to override local zoning in order to promote more density in housing developments.

Town 9/11 Walls of Honor

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that applications are now available for families to add the names of loved ones to the Town of Oyster Bay’s 9/11 Walls of Honor which recognize all those with a connection to the Town who gave their lives and succumbed in their battle against 9/11 related cancers and illness. Each September, the Town unveils newly inscribed

names into the Walls of Honor which recognize the family members, friends and neighbors lost to this toxic legacy.

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “We remember and give thanks to those who ran into danger in order to help the victims of a cowardly act of terror. This includes first responders, downtown workers, residents, students and so many

The most popular networking organization in the country, Business Networking International, has more than 24 chapters throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and recently one group, “All In Referrals,” met at the Parade Diner in Woodbury to discuss their businesses, pass referrals, and trade small business strategies and

solutions. At the same time, members share a breakfast at the early meeting start time, 7 a.m.

"The motto of BNI is ‘Givers Gain,’” said chapter president David Yaron, a personal injury attorney. The motto underscores the group's strategy, which is that business people who give business to others eventually receive leads and business from others as well.

The BNI chapters recruit members from a variety of professions and occupations. Only one representative from a business type may join a

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others with cancer certified to be 9/11-related. The events of 9/11 continue to take our heroes and survivors – and members of our community will continue to face darker days ahead. We watch each week as more of these heroes pass, in an ever-increasing and unending number. Just as many of these rescue

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Chapter members exchange business leads at networking meeting in Woodbury.

Volunteers needed for Dune Day at beach

Residents who love visiting the beach and want to help protect the shoreline can join Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and members of the Town Board at the Towns’ annual Dune Day, scheduled for Saturday, March 25, at TOBAY Beach. The event begins at 10 a.m. by the dunes at TOBAY.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “The Dune Stabilization Project brings together residents of all ages in an effort to protect and preserve our beautiful shoreline and environment by planting stalks of dune grass. Dunes along our south shore continue to face environmentally damaging storms that have a significant impact on the beach. Statistics indicate that the planting of

Essay contest honors late NC legislator

dune grass provides a natural shield that is perfect for withstanding storm surges and high winds.”

The Dune Stabilization Project helps preserve our beach and barrier island for future generations. Volunteers work alongside Town officials and crews, as well as residents from across the Town who share an interest in helping preserve TOBAY Beach.

To register as a volunteer, residents can visit www.oysterbaytown. com/volunteerform. For additional information, contact the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943 or email environmental@ oysterbay-ny.gov.

Plainview man arrested after parking dispute

Nassau County Police arrested a Plainview man for Menacing after he allegedly displayed a firearm during a verbal dispute with a neighbor on Sunday, March 12, at 8 p.m.

According to Second Squad Detectives, a male victim, 20, legally parked his vehicle on the street in front of his neighbor’s house in the vicinity of Amherst Drive and Fordham Drive. Police say that George Kauer, 68, of Plainview, had a verbal argument with the victim

regarding parking and displayed what appeared to be a rifle or shotgun. The victim notified police and Kauer was arrested without incident. During the investigation, a rifle and shotgun were recovered from Kauer’s residence.

Kauer was removed to an area hospital for evaluation.

Defendant Kauer is charged with Menacing 2nd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree.

In honor of Women’s History Month and the legacy of the late Nassau County Legislator and former Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs, Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) is proud to announce the fourth annual Judy Jacobs Essay Contest for LD 16’s fifth- through eighth-grade students.

In accordance with this year’s theme, “A Celebration of Courageous Women,” students are being tasked with selecting courageous woman in their life and writing an original essay that honors their subject and describes the true meaning of courage. Potential subjects include a parent, teacher, elected official, a community leader, actress, friend, or the author themselves.

“Throughout a lifetime of service to the residents of Nassau County, Judy Jacobs was a fierce and fearless trailblazer who epitomized the definition of courage in all aspects of her life,” Legislator Drucker said. “Through this year’s essay contest, we hope to both Judy’s many contributions and encourage the next generation of leaders to draw inspiration from the ‘sheroes’ in

their lives that make the world a better place.”

The deadline for submissions is Thursday, April 13. Contest winners will be announced during an event that is set for 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 20 at the Jericho Public Library.

Official Contest Rules:

• All students in grades 5 to 8 may participate

• Must reside within Legislative District 16

• Submissions should be a minimum of 250 words but not exceed 500 words

• All submissions MUST be accompanied by a completed Participation Agreement

Visit http://www.nassaucountyny. gov/LD16 for the full contest rules, instructions for submitting entries, and to complete the student participation agreement. Please contact Legislator Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 or Adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov for additional questions.

Old US Coins

Gold Jewelry

Diamonds &

Sterling

Sports Memorabilia

Military

Vintage

New lifeguard opportunities at town pools, beaches

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced new lifeguard employment opportunities at Town pools and beaches, including a new competitive starting salary of $18 per hour for all lifeguards, as well as openings for 15-yearolds to lifeguard at community pools for the first time.

“From having the opportunity to work at one of the Town’s fantastic summer facilities and building confidence, self-esteem, and leadership skills, to making new friends and helping others, working as a lifeguard is one of the best summer jobs around,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. “Our lifeguards provide an invaluable service in protecting our residents and have helped save countless lives in both pool and ocean waters. We encourage you to take the first step in making this summer your best one yet by applying to be a Town of Oyster Bay Lifeguard today.”

The Town is accepting lifeguard applications from candidates who possess Nassau Lifeguard Certification and a current CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer. Additionally, the Town is offering Red Cross Lifeguard Training and Nassau County Certification courses

Polar Plunge returns to TOBAY Beach on March 25

for residents who are not certified, but would like to be. Upon successful completion of these two courses, residents will be eligible for employment as a lifeguard with the Town of Oyster Bay and the Town will then pay all fees for both courses. There are also many future opportunities for advancement, including as Swim Team Coaches, Swim Lesson Teachers, Head Lifeguards, and Lifeguard Managerial positions.

“This summer, the Town of Oyster Bay is making it easier than ever to become a lifeguard. We’re offering all the certification and training courses you need to apply, covering the fees of these courses for successful candidates, welcoming 15-year olds to our lifeguard ranks at Town community pools, and increasing our lifeguards’ starting salary to $18 per hour in recognition of the life-saving work they do,” added Supervisor Saladino.

Town lifeguards are hired for the summer season, which runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Positions are available at all Town pools and beaches. For all inquiries about lifeguard employment and classes, please call 516-797-4131 or email aquatics@oysterbay-ny.gov.

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the annual Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 25, at TOBAY Beach.

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

The event kicks off with winter festival fun and registration starting at 9:30 a.m., with the plunge beginning at 11 a.m. Requested donation is $25 per participant. Plungers who raise $150 receive a commemorative Polar Plunge sweatshirt.

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

“This polar plunge is sure to create lasting memories for all participants while supporting a very worthwhile cause,” added Councilman Imbroto.

“Special Olympics New York changes lives through the joy of sports and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization to help make this event a success. Please join with me in braving the chilly waters for a great reason.”

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

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18 SHS students qualify for math exam

18 SHS students qualified for the American Invitational Mathematics exam. Photo courtesy of Syosset Central School District

Eighteen Syosset High School students have qualified for the American Invitational Mathematics Exam (AIME). To qualify to take the AIME, students must score in the top 5% of all students tested on the American Math Contest 12 or top 2.5% on the American Math Contest 10.

The Syosset students who qualified for the AIME are Cody Cheng, Jordan Guo, Alan Huang, Alice Huang, Ashley Huang, Jason Lee, Katherine Li, Grace Lu, Maximus Lu, Jake Mallen, James Masson, Anish Mittal, Michael Ren, Emily Su, Alex Wang, Ryan Wei,

Samuel Xiao, and Margaret Zhang.

The AIME is a 15 question, 3-hour examination in which each answer is an integer number from 0 to 999. Students who score exceptionally well will advance to the USA Mathematical Olympiad.

The MAA’s American Mathematics Competitions program is a series of exams and curriculum that helps America’s educators identify and foster a love of mathematics in their students by building problem-solving and analytical skills in middle and high school students.

Spring programs at the Levittown Historical Museum

Monday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Classic Television Trivia Contest

Think you know the old shows, the characters, the tag-lines, and the advertisements? Try your hand at our trivia contest featuring golden oldies from the 1950s to the 1990s.

Monday, April 17, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. Historical Cover Art

President Paul Manton examines historical cover art from the Long Island Forum Magazine (1938–2004) where he served as a contributing editor for seven years and the associated historical anecdotes.

Monday, May 15, at 7:30 p.m. What Do You Collect?

Got an antique, heirloom, artifact, specimen, or rare collectable? Bring it down and share it with the gathering.

The Levittown Historical Society’s Museum at Levittown Memorial Education Center is located at 150 Abbey Ln., Levittown. For more information please call (516) 434-7140.

E-mail: levhistoricalsoc@aol.com. Visit us on Facebook.

MUSEUM HOURS:

Wednesdays: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

About to hit a milestone?

Share your life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper. It's free of charge for subscribers! Email editor@gcnews.com

Jericho Library gets five stars

The Jericho Public Library has been honored with a prestigious 5-star rating as one of the top libraries in the United States by Library Journal.The Library celebrated last Sunday with the community. Patrons were treated to snacks, gifts, face painting, balloon animals and more! Several patrons at the celebration said that “this recognition is well deserved!” The Jericho Public Library is the only library in Nassau County with a 5-star status!

Golf outing to support Boys & Girls Club

The Boys & Girls Club of Oyster Bay-East Norwich has announced the date for its Annual President’s Cup Golf Outing to be held on May 22, at the beautiful Pine Hollow Club, in East Norwich. An exciting day of competition, games and amazing prizes is being planned, including a car sponsored by Helms Bros., Inc., Mercedes-Benz, Bayside Volkswagen and Volvo Cars of Queens for the Hole-in-One winner. In addition to the Low Gross and Low Net formats, foursomes can compete in men’s, women’s and mixed scrambles.

Since its inception 30 years ago, this tournament has raised much-needed funds in support of scholarships for youngsters to attend 8 weeks of Summer Camp, and benefits the youngsters of the community in ensuring the continuation and expansion of the Club’s programs and

activities throughout the year.

Due to its success last year, the Club will again be selling raffle tickets for the “Ultimate Golf Raffle Prize,” which includes spectacular golf course foursomes. You need not be present to win. Only 200 raffle tickets will be sold at a cost of $100 each!

Golf Co-Chairs, Claude Bahnik and Tom Golon, and their dedicated committee members, Lori Bahnik, Michèle Bahnik Mercier, Mike Borgia, Tere Borgia, Madeline Callahan, Brian Gamble, Tom Haefele, John Litke, Kevin Mercier, and Matt Romanelli, are busy planning for an exciting day.

Please mark your calendars. For more information on packages and sponsorship opportunities, as well as registration details, please contact the Boys & Girls Club of Oyster BayEast Norwich, at 516-922-9285.

Free employers’ registration for Town Job Fair

The Town of Oyster Bay invites employers to register today for table space at the Free Job Fair being hosted on Thursday, March 30, at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue in Bethpage. Hosted by the Workforce Partnership, New York State Department of Labor and Town of Oyster Bay, the event offers tremendous benefits for businesses seeking candidates for positions. Register today as space is limited for the March 30th Free Job Fair. Call (516) 797-4560 or email at business@oysterbay-ny.gov. Here are just some of the reasons you should register today:

• Save Time. Whether you have a position open or not, it’s always smart to be on the lookout for top talent. Job fairs introduce hiring managers to the talent on a much more meaningful level than online, and at higher volumes—all within hours.

• Brand Awareness.

Simply put - job fairs are also public relation events. Companies attending job fairs will likely have their logo included in promotional work, and they lend a sense of establishment to participants. Plus, it’s a chance to develop your company reputation through public interaction.

• Better Candidates. Job fairs tend to target specific industries and skills. They can also be excellent sources for young talent.

• Face to Face Interaction. Sometimes it can be more efficient to skip the resume - although not entirely. Cover letters, resumes, Zoom calls - they all serve as screeners to get to the heart of the matter: who is this person? Job fairs let hiring managers start at the heart. Face to face communication offers the first glimpse into whether a person’s a good fit for your company culture, thereby significantly shortening the screening process.

Bus trip to Wind Creek

• Networking. Job seekers aren’t the only ones making connections at job fairs. Obviously, such events are mixers for businesses from a spectrum of industries. Plus, they may even offer a unique look at your competition.

• The Unexpected Candidate. Sometimes the perfect candidate isn’t in your target zone, or vice versa. When you have several industries loaded into the same venue as a pool of talent, you never know who you might find. For example, a talented videographer probably knows enough about cameras to be an excellent sales rep.

• Making an Early Connection. Another advantage of career fairs are the connections made with passive candidates “just looking.” Spotting talent early is an excellent way to nurture a relationship and give you an edge over your competition.

The Joseph Barry Columbiettes will be hosting a trip to Wind Creek Bethlehem (formerly Sands) Casino in Bethlehem, PA on Tuesday, March 28.

Cost of the trip is $50 per person, which includes the driver’s tip. Give back is $35 slots play.

Please arrive at 8:30 a.m. Return is approximately 8:30 p.m. For reservations, please call Barbara at 516-935-5576.

Please make checks payable to Joseph Barry Columbiettes. The first to pay is the first on the bus.

A MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR INVESTMENT FOR LONG ISLAND

Sands, the world leader in developing integrated resorts, is proposing a multi-billion-dollar investment at the current site of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. This groundbreaking, world-class hospitality and entertainment project will be transformational for the Long Island economy, creating thousands of quality union jobs and generating millions of dollars in tax revenue.

A HISTORIC OPPORTUNITY FOR LONG ISLAND BUSINESSES

Sands is committed to developing long-term partnerships with local businesses. For Long Island-based manufacturers, distributors, wholesale suppliers and other companies servicing the hospitality and entertainment industries, the Sands project will be an unprecedented opportunity to grow your business and be part of what will surely become an iconic centerpiece of the Long Island landscape.

Young Israel of Plainview holds annual dinner

Legislator Drucker with guests of honor Jonathan Sokolov and Miriam Rafailovich.

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) joined Young Israel of Plainview on Sunday, March 12, for their 51st Journal Dinner at the Shelter Rock Jewish Center in Roslyn. As part of the festivities, Legislator Drucker presented Nassau County Legislature Citations to Guests of Honor Miriam Rafailovich and Jonathan Sokolov and Young Leaders Francie and Jason Goldberg.

“Through their steadfast support of Young Israel of Plainview, the impressive group of honorees continue to distinguish themselves as mentors, public servants, educators and spiritual leaders,” Legislator Drucker said. “It was wonderful to be with the congregation for this wonderful celebration of community service and selfless leadership.”

Photos courtesy of Office of Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

Legislator Drucker with Young Leaders honorees Francie and Jason Goldberg.

Jericho HS performs “Frozen” after Disney selection

Named Businessperson of the Year

Online referral network for small businesses Alignable.com has named Craig Wolfson of Wolfson and Klein-Wolfson PLLC as Syosset's Businessperson of the Year.

The 2023 contest, which honored business leaders throughout the country, drew over 226,000 votes praising local leaders for helping their peers and communities.

Directors give cast members instructions prior to production.

BY GEORGE HABER

Displaying Broadway-style singing and dancing, students from Jericho High School put on five performances of the Disney musical “Frozen” in the Middle School Little Theater from March 9 through 12.

Jericho had won the nationwide competition, sponsored by Disney, to grant production rights to the popular Broadway musical to one school from each state. Jericho High School was selected as the only New York school to garner rights to produce the show in the state.

Jericho’s director of the production, Theone Rinaudo, said there were three hundred competing high schools throughout the country vying for rights to produce the show.

Sell-out crowds attended each performance, sparked by publicity for the show

on TV and in Newsday.

The Jericho version of Frozen included a live “pit band” which Stephanie Rinaudo, creative director and choreographer who is the daughter of the director, said was a requirement for consideration by Disney.

The pit band director was Evangeline Bellon.

Key players in the show included:

• Laura Marchand (Elsa)

• Gianna DeVellis (Anna)

• Kathryn Weinberger (Young Elsa)

• Sienna Feldman (Young Anna)

• Shubhan Mehta (Hans)

• Maung-Gyi Akamatsu (Kristoff)

• Andy Liu (Oaken)

• Ashton Leung (Sven/King Agnarr)

• Namit Sethi (Pabbie)

• Chloe Salua (Olaf)

“In our local business community, we look out for each other and refer businesses down the street or around the corner to help make everyone in town as successful as possible,” said Wolfson. “And the challenges we’ve all encountered have compelled many of us to offer counsel to peers fighting to keep their businesses afloat. While I’m thrilled to receive this award, it’s really a testament to our entire community. And it reinforces my resolve to push toward a full recovery for everyone here in Syosset by the end of 2023.”

Wolfson received a special badge on his Alignable profile, recognizing this big win. In past years, the awareness generated through similar contests has spurred expanded connections, as well as new business for many winners.

Wolfson and Wolfson-Klein PLLC

represents clients in a few specialized areas of law—Wills, Trusts & Estates; Employment Law; Residential Real Estate.

Town seeks nominations for “Women of Distinction” program

The Town of Oyster Bay is accepting nominations for the Town’s 2023 Women of Distinction Program. At the start of Women’s History Month, 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 2023 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 submit nominations of those

Pit band prepares to play.

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.

Craig Wolfson

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Friday, March 17

10:30 a.m.: Jump for Joy (Ages 18 Months to 5 Years) - Join us for a lively program of music and group activities for you and your child.

2:00 p.m.: ( VIRTUAL ) Great Performers with Marc Courtade: Rex Harrison - Rex Harrison was a British actor who played a wide variety of roles on stage and screen throughout his sixty year career. He was best known for his portrayal of Professor Henry Higgins in “My Fair Lady,” a role he created on stage in 1956, which he recreated for the 1964 film version, winning both the Tony and Academy Awards. Harrison was known as an actor who loved his craft, and brought his wit and charm to each performance. This talk will pay tribute to the suave actor and spotlight his notorious life.

Saturday, March 18

9:30 a.m.: (IN-PERSON) Defensive Driving - It is Well Driving School Completion of this programs entitles you to a NYS insurance discount and point reduction. Bring your NY State driver license and a pen to class. Cost: $30 No refunds unless class is cancelled. In person registration ONLY. Make your check payable to “It Is Well Driving School.” Check must be submitted when signing up. This class is for all ages. Registration is open to all.

10:30 a.m.: Songs for Baby’s Day (Ages Birth to 30 Months) - Come and enjoy this literacy building, fun and

educational musical storytime.

2:00 p.m.: Teen/Tween Movie: “When Marnie Was There” (Grades 4–12) - In this animated film from Studio Ghibli, a 12-year-old girl is sent to the country for health reasons, where she meets an unlikely friend in the form of Marnie, a young girl with long, flowing blonde hair. As the friendship unravels it is possible that Marnie has closer ties to the protagonist than we might expect.

Sunday, March 19

1:00 p.m.: Let’s Talk Newbery (Grades 3–6) - Have you read a Newbery book? Be bold and share what you think about these books and see if your peers agree or just develop a love of Newberys.

Monday, March 20

7:00 p.m.: Teens: Community Service Tote Bags for Shelter PetsDecorate a tote bag that will be donated to a local animal shelter to be given to people who adopt a pet. Participants will earn 1 hour of community service credit. You'll also feel great for doing something so nice for others!

Tuesday, March 21

2:00 p.m.: (HYBRID) Art LectureLooking Up: Studies for Ceilings with Professor Thomas Germano - This visual lecture relates to an exhibition at the National Gallery, DC, through July 9, 2023, which features 30 designs representing the evolution and main types of ceiling decoration. Professor Germano will discuss the origins of

overhead illusions, culminating into tromp l’oeil ceilings incorporating multi-media. Don’t miss this interesting program!

7:00 p.m.: ( VIRTUAL ) Teen Advisory Board Meeting - Do you want to get involved and help with planning future Teen programs and book purchases here at the Jericho Library? Join our Teen Advisory Board! We will meet once per month to talk about these things and more. Participants will earn 1 hour of community service credit.

7:00 p.m.: STEMtastic: Doodle Bots (Grades 3 to 6) - Build and design your own bot! You can give it a face and some antennae and of course, a name, then we'll set it loose on some paper and watch it doodle away! Each participant will get their own bot to take home.

Wednesday, March 22

10:30 a.m.: Smarty Pants Storytime (Ages 3 to 5 Years) - Have fun while learning about STEAM stories and activities.

2:00 p.m.: (IN-PERSON) Movie: “The Fabelmans” (Drama) - Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence. He soon discovers a shattering family secret and explores how the power of films can help him see the truth. Starring Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle, Paul Dano. Rated PG-13. 2 hours, 31 minutes.

7:00 p.m.: Art Workshop with the

Village Artist: Cartoon People (Ages 8–12) - Learn how to draw people as cartoons with techniques to get you the best results. No prior art experience needed!

Thursday, March 23

6:00 p.m.: Teens: Regents Prep with C2 Education - This presentation will focus on how to prepare for the nine Regents examinations that Jericho high school requires its students to take: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Global History, American History, Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry, and English Language Arts. Being prepared is the best way to avoid test anxiety!

7:00 p.m.: Pajama Storytime (Ages 3–Kindergarten) - Children will enjoy 1/2 hour of stories and songs and see a short film. Caregivers must stay in the Children’s Room during this program.

Friday, March 24

10:30 a.m.: ( IN-PERSON ) A Chinese Book Discussion: “A Dream of Red Mansions” by Cao Xueqin - “A Dream of Red Mansions” is one of four Chinese classics. The novel takes the four big families in the feudal society as the background and tells a poignant love story. At the same time, it depicts the portraits and lives of people of all classes. It is also the epitome of the rise and fall of a dynasty.

Sunnie Zhang is a columnist who loves reading, food and travel. She will lead a book discussion in Chinese. Copies of the book will be available in Chinese at the Circulation Desk.

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Friday, March 17, at 12:00 p.m.

Author Lunch with Deanna Raybourn (VIRTUAL)

Grab your lunch and zoom in from anywhere to “meet” Deanna Raybourn, author of the Veronica Speedwell books and “Killers of a Certain Age!” No registration needed. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Saturday, March 18, from 10 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Community Art Swap (IN-PERSON)

Help divert materials from landfills while encouraging environmentally friendly creations. Donations will be collected during the week (there are specific drop off dates/ times). For more information, go to syossetlibrary.org. Come to the Library to choose art supplies for yourself. NO donations will be taken the day of the swap.

Monday, March 20, at 2:00 p.m.

How to Prevent Seniors

from Being Scammed (HYBRID)

Presenter: Family & Children

Association of Long Island

This presentation will help adults recognize scams (related to Coronavirus, Social Security Administration, IRS, Amazon, Microsoft and more. Information reviewed in lecture includes what is financial abuse, who is targeted and why; scams to be aware of; suspicious activities and possible signs of financial abuse, ways to protect yourself from financial abuse and exploitation; what to do if you become a victim. No registration needed for in person or Zoom. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Monday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m.

Tomatomania (IN-PERSON)

Join Newsday garden columnist Jessica Damiano, creator and 13-year host of The Great Long Island Tomato Challenge, for a primer on growing great tomatoes. You will leave equipped with all the knowl -

edge needed to plant, prune, fertilize, maintain, troubleshoot and harvest home gardeners' favorite backyard crop -- as well as the secrets of growing competition-worthy tomatoes! Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Thursday, March 23, at 12:00 p.m.

#AskALibrarian (ON TWITTER)

Join librarians from Syosset Library and around the world on Twitter for #AskALibrarian to receive reading suggestions based on your requests. Must have a Twitter account to participate. Read a great book? Need a read-alike? Looking for your next book club choice? Use #AskALibrarian in your tweet.

Thursday, March 23, at 2:00 p.m.

Women Artists Through History (HYBRID)

Presenter: Jay Schuck, independent art curator and art historian Celebrate Women’s History Month by learning the highlights of the life

and works of several women artists including Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Artemisia Gentileschi, Judith Leyster and Vigee Le Brun. No registration needed for in person or Zoom. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, March 24, at 2:00 p.m.

Diving in the Land of the Pharaohs: The Egyptian Red Sea with Eco-Photo Explorers (HYBRID)

Presenter: Eco-Photo Explorers

In the shadow of the Pyramids of Giza and under the eternal gaze of the Great Sphynx, the Egyptian Red Sea beckons divers to explore its underwater treasure. Journey to these fabled lands. Using photography and video, you will first visit ancient Egyptian monuments before exploring the jaw-dropping marine eco-system of the Red Sea from a liveaboard dive operation. No registration needed for in person or Zoom. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary. org.

March 17, 2023

Utah Adventure Day 6-7: House on Fire Among Highlights Hiking Bears Ears National Monument

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

What is truly special about Bears

Ears National Monument-Cedar Mesa – and what draws Laini back time and again, are the remnants, artifacts and structures left by Ancestral Puebloans – ancestors of the Hopi and Zuni - who inhabited these canyons and cliffs between 700 and 2500 years ago. Arrowheads and other artifacts dating back 10,000 years have also been found in this region. Some of these sites are at once accessible yet also feel remote – so you feel you are the first archaeologist to discover, though obviously that can’t be since the BLM Rangers have left laminated info packets in metal cases in some of the dwellings. Still, we can pretend.

Our hikes bring us to these places that seem as if the occupants only recently vacated, leaving behind painted pottery shards, tiny corn husks, stone and bone tools, even their hand-prints, pictographs and petroglyphs that speak to us through time, as if to say, “We were here. We still are.”

Because these lands are sacred, all of us must be respectful of the dwellings and the archaeological artifacts that we come upon. And these sites truly feel sacred – precisely because of the artifacts, the pictographs and petroglyphs, you feel the presence of those who lived here. And because those of us who visit do show proper respect, these mud-and-stick (jacal) constructions delicate pictographs and petroglyphs etched into sand-

stone and artifacts, though incredibly fragile, are here for us to discover, as if we are among the first.

It’s fairly miraculous these sites have survived Mother Nature, let alone humans.

After hiking to the Arch Canyon Ruins, Laini leads us to a trail to one of the outstanding highlights of the Bears Ears National Monument: the House on Fire, one of the most photographed (spectacular) sites in the region.

This site features five granaries built into overhanging Cedar Mesa Sandstone with a streaked pattern that, in the early morning light, resembles flames (photo tip: because these dwellings were built to be south-facing, the most dramatic light is around 10-11 am depending upon time of year). (https://bearsearsmonument.org/house-on-fire/)

“As you take in the view, imagine how the ancient Puebloans lived here between 700 and 2,500 years ago,”

House on Fire is one of the most photographed – and dramatic –archeological sites in Bears Ears National MonumentCedar Mesa © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear. com

Matcha writes at the visitutah.com site. “The granaries perched high in the cliffs stored corn, a main source of food. The Puebloans also ground Indian ricegrass into meal to make bread, and they ate abundant prickly pears. The ever-present yucca was invaluable, as its leaves were spun into fiber and woven into baskets, sandals, and bags, as well as ropes that are said to have helped reach some of the higher, less accessible granaries. The Native Americans used the root of the yucca for soap, and they roasted and ate the base of the plant.” (https://www.visitutah. com/articles/exploring-mule-canyon-house-on-fire-cave-tower)

(South Fork of Mule Canyon trail is 4.3 miles one-way, and elevation gain is 250 feet. Cave Tower Site is 1-1.5 miles round trip, and elevation change is less than 200 feet. Passes are required for day hiking, check with the Bureau of Land Management for the current fee amount. Be prepared

with exact change.)

After this spectacular hike, we drive west on Hwy 95 near milepost 103, then drive onto a dirt road for half a mile. We hike in and across the way, we see The Tower Ruin – a rare, two-story structure on the other side of the canyon.

At first, it seems too steep a scramble for me, but Dave and Laini go down. Dave makes it look easy. Sure enough, he comes back to guide me to the site (so glad he did!).

This site is so secluded, remote and untouched, it feels as if we discovered it on our own (though I’m sure that’s not true, the feeling is still so exciting).

The tower construction seems to be “modern” - Laini says there is evidence of three different generations having a hand in the construction. There are fabulous pictographs and petrolyphs here. I imagine that one is a symbol for the chief.

Altogether, we have hiked about 9 to 10 miles today – so satisfying.

We drive into the town of Blanding for dinner and supplies, seeing signs along the way for Native American Crafts, Dinosaur Museum, State Edges of the Cedars Native American Museum.

Laini decides to change plans from our original itinerary and instead of leaving here for Canyonlands, we stay an extra night and day in Cedar Mesa.

So glad, because the second day’s hike is one of the best I have ever experienced.

Kane Gulch Trail

Take seriously the need to obtain

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permits in advance for certain hikes. We changed our plans in order to stay this second day in Cedar Mesa so did not get the necessary permit (limited to just 20 a day) to hike to Moon House - the only day hike that requires a permit instead of just a hiking day pass. We thought we might get away with it because we are here on Easter Sunday, but no such luck (the permit allocations fill up even months before). It is easier to get permits in summer months, which is when Laini and David found themselves the only ones at the site when they last visited (likely because of the heat; when we are here, in early spring, the weather is perfect).

Instead, at the Kane Gulch Visitor Center, the Ranger suggests we hike the Kane Gulch Trail which starts right across the road. We purchase our day hiking passes ($5 pp - my America the Beautiful pass doesn’t count). She suggests what to look for at what distances.

Dave gets out our hot-water maker and we have our breakfast at the picnic table outside the visitor center, then set out. Our plan is to go five miles, to the Stimper Arch, and five miles back.

At about a mile in, there is a short slot canyon where we see a formation to me looks like the profile of an Indian chief.

At the two-mile mark, Dave stashes our 5-gallon water jug so we have enough for the return.

It’s four miles to the Junction Ruin which has some fabulous dwellings, pottery shards, and pictographs.Dave and Laini climb up sheer rock to get to

Utah Adventure Day 6-7

an upper level (a defensive watchtower?) and could see remnants of a ladder that would have been used.

Another .7 mile and we come to a site known as Turkey Pen. Looking up from the trail, it seems the cliff dwellings are cramped and close to the edge, but when we get up here, it is surprising how much space there actually is.

Here, we see some fabulous examples of mud and stick method of construction (jacal) and some exquisite painted pottery shards, pictographs, even the remnants of the actual turkey pen formed with sticks – so it almost seems you are coming upon a dwelling just after the residents left. You feel you are the archaeologist making the discovery –except for the printed notes left by the National Park Service- but still.

We also come upon a square kiva (most kivas Laini and Dave have seen are circular, Laini notes).

You wonder about whether the site was designed to defend and who to defend from - people who would take food stored in the granary? One of the pictographs depicts sheep being killed, another of “lizard man.”

As we hike, we keep our eyes peeled on the cliffs above for evidence of dwellings, well off the trail and likely minimally visited. Laini says there were thousands of cliff dwellings here and only a fraction have been discovered (or are still intact, but when you consider they are 1000 years old, and the crumbling rock all around, it is amazing any remain). We spot one and Laini goes off to try to find a way to climb up to it.

We find a pleasant rock overhang to sit and have our picnic lunch, feeling

like this would have been exactly what the Puebloans would have done.

We hike a further .3 miles to the Stimper Arch (which is the 5-mile mark), where we turn around.

This hike has everything – it has just the right amount of physical challenge – a section where you scramble a bit and walk a narrow edge – gorgeous greenery, stunning rock formations, water features (but not too watery to hike), but best and most spectacular of all, these cliff dwellings that look like we have just discovered them, with relatively large and stunningly painted pottery shards, stone tools, stunning pictographs (I start thinking they are either indications of how many people lived in the dwelling like a census; markers of whose dwelling it is, like a family name? or just being playful, artful? graffiti?).

The trail is not specifically marked – so you have to figure your own way using the landscape and intermittently placed cairns.

Even though this is a popular trail, we come upon other people only occasionally (but it kind of reassures us we are going the right way).

The trail actually goes on for miles (days), connecting to other trails. (We meet a group of college students who are making a multi-day backpacking trip and will return on the Fish and Owl trail.)

We get back to the start at 6:30 pm (we set out around 10 am), having hiked about 11 miles. (It took us 5 hours to get 5 miles (including the time exploring the archaeological sites) and 3 ½ hours to hike back.

A GREENER VIEW

The Case for Carbohydrates

BY CHARLYN FARGO

A new study finds that we really do need carbohydrates. For years, carbs have taken a bad rap as the popularity of Atkins and keto diets soared. The truth is carbs aren’t bad: Complex carbs -- carbs with fiber -- are very much needed in a healthy diet pattern.

The study, published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, looked at data on food and nutrient intake and markers of metabolic syndrome from respondents in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2018. It includ-

ed 19,078 respondents who were over 20 years old, had reliable and complete data on food and nutrient intake and markers of metabolic syndrome, and were not pregnant or breastfeeding.

Researchers, led by Dakota Dustin, a doctoral Student in the Department of Human Sciences at Ohio State University, found that carbohydrate intakes below recommendations (less than 45% of calories), with a high intake of fat, were associated with higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is characterized as having three of the following conditions: elevated waist?circumference, elevated triglycerides, reduced HDL (considered good cholesterol), elevated blood pressure or elevated plasma glucose.

Over one-third of adults in the U.S. have metabolic syndrome, and dietary carbohydrate intake may modify the likelihood of developing this condition. Researchers felt there is a lack of con-

sistent evidence demonstrating the relationship between carbohydrate intake that falls below recommendations and metabolic syndrome.

Their findings showed those who had a carbohydrate intake below recommendations had 1.067 times greater odds of having metabolic syndrome compared to those who met carbohydrate recommendations. High intake of fat of any class was associated with higher odds of metabolic syndrome in those who had a carbohydrate intake below recommendations.

A healthy diet should consist of 45% to 55% carbohydrates, 20% to 35% fat and the remainder protein. Carbohydrates are present in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, nuts and seeds. The best-quality carbohydrates are those with fiber, considered complex carbohydrates.

The bottom line? We all need complex carbohydrates -- full of fiber -- in a

After this full day’s hike, we drive to Arches National Park. It’s a fairly long drive and already sunset by the time we arrive. This is the first time we have to set up camp in the dark and there is a strong wind that makes it difficult to keep the tent from blowing away (especially since I can’t find my tent stakes so we improvise, until they are ultimately found under the footprint.)

Dave makes a fire and we prepare dinner from our supplies.

If You Go....

The Moon House Ruin is one of the best archaeology sites on Cedar Mesa (the hike is 3.2-5.6 miles roundtrip). More of the best hikes in Bears Ears at http://www.hikingwalking.com/index. php/destinations/ut/ut_se/blanding

Day hiking in Bears Ears National Monument requires a day hiking pass. Day hiking passes are unlimited. Visit the permits page for more information (https://www.blm.gov/programs/ recreation/permits-and-passes/lotteries-and-permit-systems/utah/ cedarmesa).

Visitor Centers: Kane Gulch BLM Ranger Station, UT-261 36 miles west of Blanding; Monticello Visitor Center, 216 S Main St., 435-587-3401; Blanding Visitor Center, 12 North Grayson Parkway.

https://www.blm.gov/visit/ bears-ears-national-monument

© 2023 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

healthy dietary pattern. Restricting or eliminating carbohydrates can lead to other health problems.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS

Crossword Answers

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illinois.

Visiting King’s Island in northern Connecticut

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Twenty-five years ago I started driving to Enfield, Ct., to meet some friends I’d met in college at Fairfield University. I had been to other parts of Connecticut over the years but I hadn’t learned much about this northern part of the state until spending time with my old college buddies.

Bordered by Longmeadow, Mass., Enfield is 10 miles south of Springfield, Mass., in Hartford County, Ct. The town was settled in 1679 by the Pease brothers, Robert and John of the Salem, Massachusetts Bay Colony. Today Enfield is known for its many stores along Hazard Avenue which is north of Hartford and right off I-91.

One friend, Emma, lives in Suffield, Ct., so that meant crossing the Connecticut River, a mighty river that flows roughly southward for 407 miles through four states - New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut - and empties into the Long Island Sound.

With each visit to Enfield I grew increasingly fascinated with the Connecticut River and I told my friends that I wanted to photograph it. My Enfield friend, Kelly, told me about King’s Island - a small island in the middle of the Connecticut River that is accessible only by boat - and explained how we could go to the boat launch.

Arranging to meet Emma and Judy, one day we set out with my equipment and I got some scenic shots. They knew all about King’s Island but that was the first time I’d ever heard the story of this island that measures about 120 acres and was originally owned by the Native American Indians. In 1641 a Native American woman was said to have sold the island to John Lewis of Windsor, Ct.

Over the years the island has had different owners, one of them being the King family. Connecticut Light & Power, now called Eversource, purchased it in the 1950s. The company

hoped to use the island and section of the river for hydroelectric power, but nothing came of it. Eversource kept the park as open public land and still maintains a page describing it.

King’s Island has been the site of religious gatherings, particularly in the 1800s when Dewitt Clinton Terry lived on and farmed a large portion of the island. Terry was a member of a religious sect that believed the world was going to end on specific dates.

More than once, the Millerites aka Adventists, gathered on the island for the anticipated final day, only to see it come and go without incident. There is still evidence of his farmhouse, barns and stone walls that can be found throughout the island.

Over the years many people have taken a canoe, a boat or a kayak across from Enfield or Suffield to King’s Island. Local fishermen have reported that carp, smallmouth bass, walleye, pike, catfish and striped bass can be caught in the waters of the Connecticut River all around King’s Island. It has been a hunting ground although now it is a wildlife management area.

King’s Island is uninhabited, clean, quiet and for the most part it is undisturbed. Surrounded by Enfield, Suffield and to the south, by Windsor Locks, some people access the island from the boat launch at 49 Parsons Road in Enfield.

The King’s Island Boat Launch has also been known as the Parsons Boat Launch. It has a long concrete ramp and a good-sized parking area. The launch is most popular during the shad season. Shad, which is in the herring family, is a great type of fish to eat. It’s very healthy for you.

There is a small picnic area and a bit of area to explore along the shore for fishing depending on water levels. There’s also a small brook to the right of the boat launch called Beemans Brook that made for some great pictures when we went there. Running east to west,

it’s a pretty babbling brook with lots of fish in it.

Despite its remote location, most local residents know that for years King’s Island has been a campground. Emma said that her father, Bob, used to kayak or take a small boat to King’s Island when he was in his early 20s. He and his friend, Dylan, would camp out for the weekend or for as long as they could stay. With their backpacks filled with clothes, food and other supplies, they would head off the mainland to King’s Island.

They’d spend time fishing then cook the fish they had just caught over a campfire. They very carefully got the fire going in a pre-dug fire pit which was ideal - it was sheltered from the wind.

They’d also heat up a can of beans, drink some coffee from the Thermos they’d brought in their backpack and have some homemade pound cake for dessert. The setting was rustic and their dinner was basic but they ate a solid dinner.

Their sleeping bags were comfortable enough and looking up at the night-

time stars was magical. When morning came, they took pictures of the sun’s rays bouncing off the waters of the Connecticut River. They’d hike along the mile-long walking trail and when the daylight was best, using a 35-mm camera they would take photographs of the various wildlife and nature they saw on King’s Island - the bald eagles, hawks, ducks and geese as well as the fish.

At sundown they took a lot more pictures and back home after their trip they pored over their photos, knowing they had some great mementoes.

I liked hearing Emma tell Judy, Kelly and me about her dad and Dylan’s trip to King’s Island. She was very descriptive and gave lots of details. Although they went there years ago, I doubted that the island had changed much. Seeing King’s Island and talking about it piqued my interest in going back to explore the area when the weather gets warmer. Springtime will be best - after all the snow has melted and the trees and the flowers are in full bloom.

Disability Benefits for Senior Citizens

BY TOM MARGENAU

Many older folks are asking me about getting disability benefits from Social Security. I’ll offer some tips on how to go about doing that in a minute. But first, here are some ground rules that vary depending on your age.

If you are over your full retirement age, forget about it. Once you reach that age, disability benefits are no longer payable. Or to put that another way, the retirement benefit you are getting pays the same rate as any disability benefits you might be due.

If you are under age 62 and disabled, then you should definitely file for Social Security disability. There is information about how to do that later in this column.

If you are over 62 and not yet on Social Security, then you should file for retirement and disability benefits at the same time. The Social Security Administration can start your retirement payments right away. Then if your disability claim is eventually approved, they will switch you to the higher disability rate.

But if you are between age 62 and your full retirement age, and are already getting Social Security retirement benefits, you may or may not be eligible for disability payments. Or to be more precise, the closer you are to your full retirement age, the smaller your disability boost will be -- and you may decide it’s just not worth all the hassle.

That’s because your disability rate (normally equal to your full retirement age benefit) must be reduced for every month you’ve already received a Social Security retirement check. And you will eventually reach a point where you simply gain very little by filing for Social Security disability.

Here is a quick example of that. Sam filed for retirement benefits at age 62. His benefit was reduced roughly onehalf of 1% for each month he was under his full retirement age. He is getting 75% of his FRA rate. At 65, he had a heart attack. If he files for disability benefits and if his claim is approved, his regular disability rate, again equal to his FRA benefit, must be reduced by about onehalf of 1% for each month he’s already received a retirement benefit. At age 65, he’s received 36 retirement checks, so his disability rate must be cut by about 18%. So instead of a 100% disability rate, he’d get about 82%. Sam would have to decide if it is worth all the hassle of filing for disability just to get bumped up from his current 75% rate to 82%.

I’ve used the phrase, “all the hassle,” twice already. Let me tell you what the hassle is by giving you a quick rundown of the Social Security disability application process.

First, you will fill out a bunch of papers. The primary one is a form that

asks you to describe your disability and how it prevents you from working. That latter point is the key. You don’t get disability benefits simply because you have some kind of physical or mental impairment. You get disability benefits because you have a physical or mental impairment that keeps you from working, so you must describe in detail how your disability prevents you from doing your job.

That same form also asks you to list your medical providers. The government can’t make a decision about your case without having the evidence to back up your claim, so make sure you thoroughly list the names, addresses, phone numbers and any other contact information you have for every doctor, hospital, clinic or other medical professional from whom you’ve received treatment.

The Social Security Administration contracts out disability decisions to an agency in each state that is staffed with doctors and other medically trained personnel. They are the folks who decide if you meet the legal definition of “disability” for Social Security purposes. In a nutshell, the rules say your impairment must be one that will keep you from doing any kind of work for which you are suited and one that is expected to last at least 12 months.

There is a pretty good chance you will be asked to go to a Social Security doctor for additional evaluation. Make sure you don’t miss that appointment.

Your disability claim will usually take about three months to process. If it’s approved, you’ll start getting disability checks six months after they say your disability began. (That six-month waiting period is built into the law.)

If your claim is denied, you will have to decide if it is worth it to appeal that decision. If you decide to do that, the first appeal is usually just a review of your case by the state agency that made the first decision. If your claim is denied again, then you can file for a hearing before a Social Security judge. Because of backlogs, those hearings can take about a year to set up.

By the way, the “word on the street” is that all disability claims are denied the first time and that it takes a year or more to get a final decision. That’s just not true. About 35% of all disability claims are approved the first time in that 3-month window I mentioned earlier. Another 15% or so are approved after the first appeal. It’s only those claims that end up in the hearing judge’s backlog that take a long time to process.

Do you need a lawyer to handle your disability claim? Quick answer: not right away. You certainly don’t need legal help to file a disability claim or to file for the first review if the claim is denied. But if you find yourself heading for a hearing before an SSA judge, many

folks feel more comfortable having a lawyer there to represent them. Just be aware that they are usually going to take about 25% of any back pay benefits you receive if they win the case for you.

So, to sum up, if you are a senior citizen with physical and/or mental health issues, you may or may not be eligible for Social Security disability benefits depending on the factors explained in this column.

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.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

Answers on page 2

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Reader Discovers It’s Difficult to Pay the Balance to the Penny

BY MARY HUNT

Dear Cheapskate: This is petty perhaps, but how does one ever completely pay off a credit card account?

We paid off a credit card recently (Hallelujah!) by sending a check for the exact amount of the balance due taken from the monthly statement. The following month we received a bill for $1.91 -- all of it a finance charge! Sure, it’s not much, but that was discouraging. Any suggestions?

-- Alan

Dear Alan: You have just discovered another of the credit card companies’ tricks. Because companies use the average-daily-balance method to compute interest, it is nearly impossible to pay a credit card balance off to the penny if you’ve been carrying a balance of any amount.

You could spend a lot of time and trouble calling and haranguing customer service to time your payment with their billing cycles. Or bite back: When you’re ready to make that final payment in full, add $5 to the amount you owe. When your next statement arrives with a credit balance, call customer service and request that they send you a check for the credit balance.

They probably won’t do it unless you close the account, but how nice for them to owe you for a change!

Dear Cheapskate: I ruined my credit years ago in the usual foolish way people do with nonpayment and slow

BY MARY HUNT

payments.

Even though I am much more careful and responsible now, I cannot shake the bad credit history. My bank does not offer secured credit card accounts. Do you have any suggestions to help me get a credit card? -- Discouraged in Fla.

Dear Discouraged: Negative credit items will automatically drop off your report after seven years; a bankruptcy will stop being reported to the credit bureaus after 10 years. Your report should be cleaning itself if your missteps took place that long ago.

As for getting a secured card, you can apply for this type of credit card account outside of your bank, without ruining that relationship. But first fully understand how a secured credit card account works: Secured cards are for people with bad credit and require a deposit into a savings account tied to the account, typically $300 to $500. If you were to mess up on this type of account, the funds being held as security will be applied to the outstanding balance, and the account will be closed.

I suggest you go to Bankrate.com, where you will find excellent information and a list of secured credit cards available, including each one’s terms and conditions. Read them very carefully. Make sure that you are not shooting yourself in the wallet by opting for a card that has excessive fees.

Dear Cheapskate: About six years ago, I decided to work toward becom-

ing debt-free. Not wanting to help the credit card companies get rich by paying lots of high interest, I worked up a plan.

Every six months or so, I would find a credit card company that was offering a credit card with a special six months of zero percent APR on balance transfers with low or no transfer fee, and I would transfer my balance.

In this way I was able to pay off all my credit card debt while paying little to no interest.

The problem? My husband and I now have 15 credit card accounts, with a total credit limit of approximately three times our annual income.

Currently, I am trying to close one account about every six months or so to protect my credit score.

Do you suggest that I keep this up for the next seven years, or should I just bite the bullet, close them all and let my credit rating take a hit? My score is 750. -- Juliet T.

Dear Juliet: Given the delicate nature of credit scores and credit limits these days, identify the two accounts that you’ve had the longest and target them as the accounts you want to keep active. Then just sit back and do nothing with the others.

More than likely the companies will cancel these for lack of activity -- provided the balances remain $0.00. Because you have so much open credit, losing some of that might well improve your already very

good credit score.

While I want to commend you for being so tenacious and clever in getting out of debt, I also want to caution my readers. Your method for paying down debt is a very risky proposition. Zero percent teaser rates are becoming scarce. And even if you can find and qualify for one, it’s not easy to hang onto it. If you are ever late with a payment, you’ll get socked with a big default rate.

This tactic is like playing with fire. It’s easy to get burned.

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 “Debt-Proof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

5 Extreme Lawn, Patio and Garden Cost-cutters

For some of us, there are few spring joys that are as soul-satisfying as a healthy, lush green lawn. Or a pristine patio with clean furniture and accessories.

You may have noticed in the past that a beautifully maintained healthy lawn does not come without considerable cost, effort and care. And outdoor living areas don’t magically remain clean and inviting.

You can cut the cost of all kinds of products you need to keep your home and garden looking great, including lawn and plant fertilizers and foods and cleaning products, too, by making your own homemade concoctions.

HEAVY-DUTY LAWN FEAST

Mix together 1 can full-strength beer, 1 can regular (not diet) soda, 1/2 cup mouthwash, 1/2 cup liquid household ammonia, 1/2 cup plain liquid soap (not detergent and not antibacterial) and 1 cup liquid plant food like Miracle-Gro.

This recipe is good for about 400 to 600 square feet of lawn and should be delivered through the use of a hose-end sprayer set at a 4-ounces-per-gallon application rate. Spray on lawn after mowing, just enough to wet the grass. Reapply every three weeks in the cool of the evening, during the hot season.

Just so you know, beer helps to promote microbial action in the lawn; the ammonia breaks down into nitrates that feed the lawn; and the soap helps to spread the solution more widely while encouraging absorption.

The alcohol in mouthwash acts as a deterrent to insects, and soap also encourages the plant material to absorb all the good stuff.

PLANT FOOD

Pour 1 gallon of tap water into a container that will hold a bit more than a gallon. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons Epsom salt, 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon household ammonia. Measure carefully; overdoing it could be harmful to plants.

This is a complete plant food and should e used only once every four to six weeks. Too much will harm and weaken plants. Can be stored and used on both outdoor and indoor plants.

APHID ERADICATOR

Mix together 1 cup vegetable oil, 1 1/2 cups water and 2 teaspoons liquid dish soap (Murphy’s Oil Soap works especially well) and pour into a spray bottle.

Spray this homemade aphid control mixture on the aphids every few days until the pests recede. This concoction will suffocate the aphids. Treat plants in the cool of the morning or in the evening, not

when they will receive direct sunlight, as the freshly applied oil may magnify the sunlight and burn the foliage.

ARTILLERY WEED KILLER

Sometimes you want to make sure nothing will ever grow along a walkway, on a driveway, in the cracks of a sidewalk and between steppingstones and pathways. Just mix up a batch of this soil sterilizer and treat those areas where weeds are so prevalent. It’s cheap and easy. Just keep in mind that you’ll surely kill the weeds, but also every other living thing as well. Apply several times and the soil will be “sterilized,” meaning nothing will grow there for a period of time.

Mix together 1 gallon white distilled vinegar, 2 cups ordinary table salt and 8 drops liquid dish soap. Mix well to dissolve the salt. Dispense this weed killer using a spray bottle. Label the container carefully, and keep out of reach of children.

It will take several days after the first application for the vegetation to die. And you may have to apply several times for this mixture to work its way deep into the soil. But if you persist, that will happen.

VINYL SIDING CLEANER

In a bucket, mix together 2/3 cup Spic and Span powder, 1/2 cup Tide powder laundry detergent, 1 quart liquid bleach and 3 quarts hot water. Allow to stand

for four to five hours. Pour into a garden hose-end sprayer and apply to vinyl siding, vinyl chairs, patio furniture and even umbrella covers. After about five minutes, remove the hose end sprayer and rinse the items with clear water by attaching a nozzle to the hose.

Nothing works as well as this cleaner. When you spray it on you can see the dirt, film and mildew just slide off. It is important that you use the brand names stipulated.

If you are concerned about landscaping, use this recipe instead: 1 gallon of water and 1 cup oxygen bleach mixed together in a bucket. The oxygen bleach will clean the vinyl without damaging your landscaping.

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 “Debt-Proof Living.”

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Farewell, Winter; Hello, Spring!

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of March 19-25, 2023

Spring is about to... well, spring! At least in the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere, anyway.

Springtime officially arrives this year in the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere, and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, Monday, March 20.

Many folks know that around the first day of spring (and, of course, the first day of autumn) the sun rises due east and sets due west. At these times, it’s wise for people who drive in those directions around dawn and dusk to be extra careful, since the rising and setting sun can make it difficult to see oncoming traffic and pedestrians along east-west roadways.

This whole change of seasons business comes about not because of our varying distance from the sun as many people mistakenly believe, but rather because our Earth’s axis is tilted relative to its orbit around the sun.

During wintertime, we in the Northern Hemisphere see the sun cross our daytime sky low in the south; in our summertime, it crosses high overhead. At some point during the year, however, the sun has to cross the equator on its way northward, and that occurs at the exact moment known as the vernal equinox, which, this year, occurs on March 20 at 2:24 p.m. PDT (5:24 p.m. EDT).

On that day our sun lies directly over the Earth’s equator and, if you were standing there, you would see the sun pass directly over your head around noontime. A few days or weeks earlier, the sun would have appeared in your southern sky, and a few days or weeks later it would appear in your northern sky. But on that day, the sun stands directly over the equator and would appear to pass directly overhead.

It is also around this time of year we may notice that our days and nights are of nearly equal length, and it is from this that we get the term “equinox,” which derives from Latin and means “equal nights”. And, as long as we don’t concern ourselves with the fine details of our sun’s position, those are both fairly true statements.

For billions of years life on our planet has become accustomed to seasonal changes, but did you ever wonder what conditions might be like if the Earth’s axis were not tilted and we had no seasons? Would life on Earth be different?

With no tilt, the Earth would have a more moderate and stable climate. Flora and fauna might have become quite specialized, creatures of different sizes and types might intermingle more, and the ecology

of our world would likely be quite different than we know today.

And if Earth’s axis were tilted even more? Seasonal changes would be more extreme; winds would blow more strongly, storms would be more powerful and common, and local temperatures would vary dramatically throughout the year.

So, as we begin to see the changes around us as springtime arrives, be sure to enjoy them all. We owe to them our very existence.

And as our temperatures gradually become more pleasant once again, I’m glad to be done with the cold and dreary days of winter, and I’m reminded how happy I am for our changing seasons!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

Eye See You

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

“Honey, have you seen my eyeglasses?” yelled my husband from another room. I sighed. This was not the first time he had lost his glasses, and I knew from past experience that the hunt could take a few minutes or a few days, depending on the blendability of the glasses-to-background ratio.

“Where do you last remember seeing them?” I asked him.

“If I could see them, I wouldn’t need your help finding them,” he said.

“That’s not what I meant,” I replied. “I meant, when do you last remember wearing them?”

“Yesterday.”

“You’ve been missing them since yesterday?” I wondered.

“No. But that’s the last time I remember wearing them.”

“OK, let’s try again,” I said. “Where

were you the last time you were wearing your glasses?”

“If I knew that, I could find the glasses!”

It used to be that his shoes were the only things that went missing. But those were usually easy to find. They are big and black and were typically under the kitchen table, by the front door or in the dog’s mouth. But the glasses are another story. When he found out that he needed glasses a few months ago, he decided to get the frameless variety, aka invisible glasses. They looked great on him, but the problem with invisible glasses is when you take them off, they are invisible. This makes it nearly impossible to find them unless you have an eyeglasses GPS, or a specially trained glasses-sniffing dog, or a psychic wife.

We looked in the usual places: the bedside table, the bathroom sink, the kitchen counter. We looked in the not-

so-usual places: inside the refrigerator, ditto the microwave, on the dog. (The dog, by the way, also looked good in the invisible glasses but alas, his eyesight, as far as we could tell, was fine).

At this point I thought it might be time to pull out my secret weapon, otherwise known as “Mamavision.” Mamavision is what I had used to see my kids doing something they weren’t supposed to when I was in another room. Mamavision is also what I used when the dog did something nasty on the carpet downstairs and I wanted my husband to find it first. Mamavision is kind of like a special radar specific only to moms and fruit bats... and sometimes husbands trying to find the TV remote.

I turned my back to the room and looked at it with my mind. I could see my husband standing in front of the front hall table, which was mirrored. I turned back and strode over to the front hall table and looked down. There, right

next to my husband’s hand, were his invisible glasses.

“Honey, your glasses are right in front of you,” I said.

“Where?” he said, looking around.

I pointed, and then reached out and plucked his glasses off the table.

“Here!” I announced.

“Oh,” he said, grinning. “I couldn’t see them.”

“Why?” I said. “Because they’re invisible?”

“No,” he replied. “Because I wasn’t wearing my glasses.”

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 2023 CREATORS

This whole change of seasons business comes about not because of our varying distance from the sun as many people mistakenly believe, but rather because our Earth’s axis is tilted relative to its orbit around the sun.

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

COUNTER HELP WANTED for the Snack Bar the Parkwood Sports Complex Ice Skating rink in Great Neck. Will train.

Please call 516-826-4540

CUSTOMER SERVICE / FRONT DESK POSITION

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Let’s discuss!

LAW OFFICE

Administrative Assistants Clerks

Busy Hicksville Law Firm seeking detailed oriented individuals with strong interpersonal & organizational skills. Computer proficient. Comfortable and professional work environment. Full & Part-time positions available.

Reply to: awobig@marcotelaw.com

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

RECEPTIONIST/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Garden City trusts and estates law firm seeks full-time receptionist with administrative skills to work with attorneys, paralegals and administrative staff. Prior law firm experience desirable. Recent college graduates welcome. Competitive salary, and employee benefits, including medical insurance, 401(k) with company match.

Reply to: michael.sparacino@brosnanlaw.com

SEEKING LOCAL LADY for help with daily activities. Food shopping, medical appointments and other errands. P/T Flexible Days/Hours. Call 516-829-0542

EMPLOYMENT SITUATION

WANTED

CERTIFIED HHA / CNA / BABYSITTING FULL TIME

Over 25 years experience. Light housekeeping, shopping, activities, appointments etc. Valid driver’s license. Excellent references and fully vaccinated. Please call 516-236-1711

CERTIFIED NURSE’S AIDE

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ELDER CARE Experienced woman seeks position to care for the elderly live in or live out. Certified HHA. Excellent references. Please call 516-800-6442

EXCELLENT HOME

HEALTH AIDE

Striving to make elderly comfortable in their own surroundings. Seeking FT/PT position. Flexible hours. Have worked with many prominent people. Excellent references. Driver w/ car. Will do errands, doctor appts, housework, light cooking.

Call Lorna 347-425-2804

EMPLOYMENT

CAREER TRAINING

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING

PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details!

(844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) Computer with internet is required.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOVENAS/PRAYERS

NOVENA TO THE BLESSED MOTHER

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

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

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

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

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

This prayer is never known to fail and is to be said for 3 consecutive days. (M.T.F.)

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-Silver-MirorsLamps-Artwork

Come to Consign & Stay to Shop

Visit.... Our Shop

109 Eleventh St. Garden City

Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6)

Saturday 12-4

Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org

Items to Consign?

Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange. org

All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society

Like us on Facebook & Instagram

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!

DINING ROOM SET

38” x 70” x 3/4”

Beveled Glass Top Dbl Marble Travertine Base

4 Chairs Like New

$500

516-965-4878

AUCTIONS

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118 Dayton St. Sea Cliff. Call 516-662-2821

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture.

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Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC.

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AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

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d/b/a Wheels For Wishes.

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REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENT

FLORAL PARK

LUXURY APARTMENT

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Basketball/Volleyball & Tennis Courts, Baseball Fields & 5 Year Old Olympic-Size Swimming Pool, Washer / Dryer, Flat -Screen TV Included, Huge Finished Basement, Driveway, Backyard (With Patio) Included.

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Call Century 21 Sewanhaka 516-328-3344

ROOM FOR RENT

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Includes Refrigerator, cable tv, microwave, a/c. No smoking. Private entrance. Street parking. $725/month. One month security.

Call 516-747-3463 or 516-554-4835

VACATION RENTAL

OCEAN BEACH

FIRE ISLAND RENTAL

5 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Kitchen house that is just 6 houses from the beach w/all the amenities.

Weekly rentals available May-Sept $8,000/week

Monthly rentals availableMay, June, Sept $20,000/month

Rental fee does not include cleaning, taxes & utilities

Call 516-978-6842

SERVICES

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship

Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business!

92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

SERVICES ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

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901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122

www.dangelolawassociates. com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

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HANDYMAN

Careful & Reliable Serving GARDEN CITY and surrounding area since 2003 Repairs & Installations of all types Carpentry, Moldings, Lighting and More 35-yr Nassau Resident References Lic#170101 Phone/Text Friendly Frank: 516-238-2112

Email: Frankcav@optonline. net

SERVICES

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Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

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631-667-WIRE (9473) or TEXT 516-353-1118

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo

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Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

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PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications

516-248-9323

www.familycareconnections.com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

Dish up a classic comfort food this St. Paddy’s Day

Shepherd’s Pie

Everyone has “corned beef and cabbage” on the brain come St. Patrick’s Day. But another flavorful dish might appeal to a greater number of people with Irish roots.

use leftovers from a previous meal. Shepherd’s pie is commonly mistaken for cottage pie, which is very similar, yet tends to use beef as the meat of choice.

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

SERVICES

DISH TV

$64.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95

High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo expires 1/31/24 Call 1-866-595-6967

SERVICES SERVICES

LEAK REPAIRS

Plumbing Repairs

Bathrooms, Showers, Kitchens 24 HOUR SERVICE Call 516-668-5624

MAGNUM SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.

Serving Garden City for 40 years.

Let Magnum Upgrade Your Existing Security System.

Burglar & Fire Alarms

Cellular Radio 3G Upgrades Remote Access

Call: 516-486-5484

PASSION FOR SENIORS

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

Yield: 8 servings

1 1⁄2 pounds russet potatoes

2 tablespoons canola oil

1 cup chopped onion

2 carrots, peeled and finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 1⁄2 pounds ground lamb

1 3⁄4 teaspoons kosher salt

Shepherd’s pie is a savory dish made of minced lamb that originated in England but also made the jump to Ireland, where it became a popular comfort food. While shepherd’s pie can be made with freshly cooked ground meat, it also is a fine way to

Many families have their own ancestral recipes for shepherd’s pie, but for those looking to cook the dish for the first time, try “shepherd’s pie,” courtesy of Alton Brown, which appeared in Season 12 of his hit show “Good Eats.”

2 teaspoons tomato paste

1 cup chicken broth

2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1⁄4 cup half-and-half

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large egg yolk

1⁄2 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen

3⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Heat oven to 400° F.

2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1⁄2-inch dice. Put them in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Set said pan over high heat, cover and bring to a boil. Uncover, drop the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook until tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

3. Heat the oil in an 11-inch saute pan over medium-high

1⁄2 cup English peas, fresh or frozen

heat until shimmering. Add the onion and carrots and saute just until they begin to take on color, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and stir to combine. Add the meat, salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 3 minutes.

4. Sprinkle the meat with the flour, toss to coat, and contin-

ue to cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, and thyme and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then decrease the heat to low, cover, and simmer slowly until the sauce is thickened slightly, 10 to 12 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, combine the halfand-half and butter in a microwave-safe container and nuke until warmed through, about 35 seconds.

6. Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan. Mash the potatoes (a masher is an excellent tool for this, though a hand mixer will do), then add the hot half-and-half mixture, as well as the salt and pepper. Mash to smoothness, then stir in the egg yolk.

7. Add the corn and peas to the meat mixture and spread evenly in a 7-by11-inch glass baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, starting around the edges to create a seal to prevent the mixture from bubbling over, and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Place on a half sheet pan lined with parchment paper on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or just until the potatoes begin to brown. Remove to a cooking rack and let rest for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Senior Scam Prevention event from FCA

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Town of Oyster Bay   Zoning Board of Appeals

TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK  11771-1592  -  TELEPHONE:  (516) 6246232 – FAX:  (516) 624-6149

RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman  –  LOIS SCHMITT, Vice Chairwoman   –  LEWIS J. YEVOLI

KATHLEEN MULLIGAN –REBECCA M. ALESIA –ANDREW MONTELEONE – LISA CICCOLELLA

PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on MARCH 23, 2023, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 23-125 SYOSSET

Nassau County Legislator Arnold Drucker with representatives of the Family and Children’s Association at a “Senior Scam Awareness” event. Photo courtesy of Office of Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

Nassau County Legislator

Arnold W. Drucker (D –Plainview) joined forces with the Family and Children’s Association and on Friday, March 10, to host a “Senior Scam Awareness” presentation for members of the PlainviewOld Bethpage Senior Citizens Club at the Jamaica Avenue School. During the event, Legislator Drucker informed seniors about common scams that criminals often target seniors with; discussed warning signs of financial exploitation; and offered tips for pro-

HENG YONG MO:  Variance to allow existing 7.9 ft. by 12.2 ft. shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.

E/s/o Alexander Dr., 981.65 ft. S/o Florence Dr., a/k/a 6 Alexander Drive, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-126 SYOSSET

tecting themselves and their families from harm.

“Nassau County is committed to protecting our residents and equipping our seniors with the knowledge they need to stay one step ahead of criminals who target them with these heinous financial scams,” Legislator Drucker said. “It was a pleasure to work with the Family and Children’s Association and the PlainviewOld Bethpage Senior Citizens Club to bring these vital resources to our community.”

PUNEET PARASHER:  (A) Variance to construct second floor addition having less side yard setback, aggregate side yards and exceeding maximum gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters.  (B) Variance to allow existing air conditioning unit having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.

S/s/o Circle Dr., 281.44 ft. W/o Lincrest St., a/k/a 24 Circle Drive, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-127 SYOSSET

MONIR HOSSAIN:  Variance to erect 6 ft. high fence exceeding maximum height across front yard (Sunbeam Road), side/front yard (Woodbury Road) and within 30 ft. of intersection than permitted by Ordinance.

SE/ cor. of Sunbeam Rd. & Market Dr., a/k/a 1 Sunbeam Road, Syosset, NY

MARCH 13, 2023

The Irish Family History Forum will be holding a meet-

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION

Notice of Formation of Up

Close Brands LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-02-28. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Ross Kamhi: 27 Evans Drive Glen Head NY 11545. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

ing on Saturday, March 18, at 10 a.m. on researching your family roots through church records in Ireland.

Via Zoom from Ireland, Sandra Doble, accredited genealogist, will discuss how to access Church of Ireland records of genealogical interest, such as church registers, vestry minute books, baptism, marriage and burial records.

The meeting will take place at the Bethpage Public Library 47 Powell Ave. Bethpage.

Agenda for the meeting: 10:00 a.m.: Meet and Greet (light refreshments)

10:15 a.m.: Ask the Experts (One-on-One)

11:00 a.m.: Intro and Speaker

Annual Pajama Day collects PJs for donation

BHS students honored for artwork

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) visited M.A.T.S.S. Kids Gym in Syosset for their annual Pajama Day festivities on Friday, March 3.

During the event, which also serves as a book and pajama drive, youngsters wore their favorite pajamas and brought an extra pair to donate. Proceeds of the drive are donated to the Long Island Pajama Program, which in 2022 distributed 81,950 sets of new pajamas and storybooks to children facing adversity and reached thousands

of children and families through their community programs.

“Thanks to the generous support of our local community, this program continues to brighten the lives of countless families and youngsters through simple acts of kindness and caring,” Legislator Drucker said. “I am grateful that M.A.T.S.S. Kids Gym is continuing this wonderful tradition – one that empowers the Long Island Pajama Program to fulfill its mission of supporting and nurturing our next generation.”

Short Stacks for a Tall Cause

The Mercy League will be holding a Flapjack Fundraiser breakfast on Saturday, April 15, from 8 a.m to 10 a.m. at Applebees, 938 S. Broadway, Hicksville.

The meal will include pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and a beverage

Bethpage senior Yamileth Garcia received honorable mention for her artwork pictured above, “Margarito/Jairin/ Alex Garcia Tapia.”

(coffee, tea, juice or soda). Tickets are $13.

For information, please contact 516735-6451 or email mercyleague.copresidents@gmail.com

9/11 Walls of Honor

From page 1

and recovery heroes raced to the Towers the first minute the plane hit, and stayed until the last brick was turned, their memorial stands with and lead us to those we lost that tragic Tuesday morning.”

Reports from the World Trade Center Health program indicate that we are approaching a terrible milestone, in which approximately 43,000 people are being treated for medical problems and 10,000 people have suffered cancers linked to the toxic exposure at Ground Zero. More than 2,500 responders and others affected have succumbed to their

illness.

The 9/11 Walls of Honor were constructed under an initiative led by Supervisor Saladino, the Town Board and a volunteer committee that includes retired FDNY EMS Lieutenant Bill Gleason, Retired NYPD Detective Tom Luberto, Deacon Dave White, Jericho Fire Commissioner Frank Sammartano, North Massapequa Fire Commissioner Ralph Raymond, Massapequa Fire Commissioner Justin McCaffrey and Rescue & Recovery Worker Joseph Pinto.

Applications may be downloaded at www.oysterbaytown.com/wallsofhonor.

Two seniors from Bethpage High School recently had their outstanding artwork on display at the Art League of Long Island’s Go APE 2023 Advanced Placement Exhibition. Yamileth Garcia and Shannon O’Keefe, Advanced Placement art students in Courtney Young’s class, received honorable mention for their work – Garcia’s piece entitled “Margarito/Jairin/Alex Garcia Tapia” and O’Keefe’s piece entitled “1934 Reflections.”

Bethpage senior Shannon O’Keefe received honorable mention for her artwork “1934 Reflections.”

The exhibition featured 2-D and 3-D works from 137 Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate art students from 40 high schools across Nassau County and Suffolk County. High school art teachers selected their students artwork for exhibition. The exhibit ran in the Art League of Long Island’s Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery from Feb. 4–18.

Photos courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

Business owners share breakfast, business ideas

From page 1

chapter, so competition for the same clientele is theoretically eliminated.

The All In chapter has members representing an auto body shop, a mortgage lender, an employment attorney, an IT professional, a plumber, a Realtor, a financial advisor, a title consultant, an accountant, a home inspector, a life insurance company, and a personal injury attorney.

BNI groups such as the All In chapter allow visitors to attend two meetings at no charge, where they can introduce themselves and their business.

Founded in 1985, BNI recently reported it comprises more than 275, 000 members in more than 10,500 chapters in 77 countries. The Woodbury chapter meets every Tuesday from 7 a.Lonm. to 8:30 a.m. at the On Parade Diner in Woodbury. Chapters in Nassau County are located in Long Beach, East Meadow, Westbury, Syosset, Glen Cove, Carle Place, and Freeport, among other locations.

To register to attend the Woodbury chapter, visitors should e-mail Chapter President David Yaron at dyaron@ yaroninjurylaw.com.

Petti Cellura, LI chapter president of Pajama Program, with Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

Counselors needed for Town’s summer recreation program

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Town is seeking counselors for its 2023 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. Our summer recreation counselors get real-world experience while having fun, making memories, and making a difference in the lives of others,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. Applicants must be available for the duration of the program, which runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, beginning July 5 through August

11. Summer Recreation Program participants take part in trips, tournaments, shows and athletic events, including the TOBAY Games, making being a counselor a great first job for many residents. Employment opportunities are offered at Marjorie R. Post (Massapequa), Plainview-Old Bethpage and SyossetWoodbury Community Parks, Ellsworth

Attention students!

W. Allen Town Park in Farmingdale, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park and Beach in Oyster Bay, and Tappen Beach in Glenwood Landing.

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

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 seen in our paper!

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Bethpage senior athletes commit to colleges

Bus safety poster contest winner

Sixteen senior student-athletes from Bethpage High School will play their sport of choice at the collegiate level next year.

Sixteen Bethpage student-athletes from the Class of 2023 celebrated their recent college commitments on March 8. Proud administrators, coaches and family members gathered in Bethpage High School’s little theater to honor the student-athletes as they embark on this exciting next chapter.

John Franchi, director of athletics, physical education, and health and David Schneider, superintendent of schools, congratulated the seniors on stage.

“This is a big milestone,” said Mr. Franchi. “Not everybody gets to play athletics at the next level…it’s a huge accomplishment.”

The Bethpage Union Free School District congratulates the following seniors on their college commitments:

• Mackenzie Bracken – Lafayette College, Lacrosse

• Kyle Brindisi – Lock Haven University, Baseball

• Delaney Cusack – Catholic University, Basketball

• Anthony Faggiano – Saint Joseph’s University (Brooklyn), Baseball

• Dominick Galeotofiore – Saint Joseph’s University (LI), Baseball

• Victoria Hapsis – John Jay College, Swimming

• Emily Herbert – Temple University, Lacrosse

• Mary Kate Nawrocki – Pace University, Lacrosse

• Christina Palmeri – Catholic University, Softball

• Victoria Pfeffer – Mercy College, Basketball

• Kailyn Salony – SUNY Binghamton, Lacrosse

• Sean Seely – Hood College, Volleyball

• Juliana Talenti – Mercy College, Lacrosse

• John Tangel – Lake Forest College, Lacrosse

• Madison Traversa – Mercy College, Lacrosse

• Brianna Wendling – Loyola University, Lacrosse

Artists invited to exhibit work 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 20, 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 10 x 10 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.

Getting married?

Several of Bethpage High School’s senior female student-athletes posed for a photo op during March 8’s college commitment day

Emma Porzecanski shows off her prize-winning poster.

Congratulations to Emma Porzecanski, a student at Jeffrey Ratner Robert Seaman Elementary School in Jericho, recently won third place in the New York State Bus Safety Poster Competition. She will receive a check from New York Association for Pupil Transportation (NYAPT) in the amount of $50 as a prize.

High school robotics teams compete in regionals

NYS Senator Steve Rhoads recently recognized the accomplishments of two of Optimum’s FIRST Robotics sponsored teams— the POBots from Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School and the JBirds from Hicksville High School.

Rhoads was joined by Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz at Plainview-Old Bethpage, and by Assemblyman Charles Lavine at Hicksville. In addition to sponsoring both teams, Optimum organized these

Discover your Irish ancestors

The Irish Family History Forum will be holding a meeting on Saturday, March 18, at 10 a.m. on researching your family roots through church records in Ireland.

Via Zoom from Ireland, Sandra Doble, accredited genealogist, will discuss how to access Church of Ireland records of genealogical interest, such as church registers, vestry minute books, baptism, marriage and burial records. This will be helpful to those research-

ing Church of Ireland records. Catholic ancestors can sometime be found in these records.

The meeting will take place at the Bethpage Public Library 47 Powell Ave. Bethpage.

Agenda for the meeting:

10:00 a.m.: Meet and Greet (light refreshments)

10:15 a.m.: Ask the Experts (Oneon-One)

11:00 a.m.: Intro and Speaker

visits to give students the opportunity to showcase their robots and educate the officials on this year’s competition and their strategies on building.

Students shared their progress and experience, the knowledge and skills they are gaining through their partici-

pation in the FIRST Robotics program, and how they are preparing to compete for this month’s regionals to qualify for the World Championship in Houston next month.

Levittown’s Terrific Kids

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray (fourth left) congratulated Wisdom Lane Middle School students Julianne (Jay) Healey, Thomas Taormina, Brandon Ays, Isabella Bonano and Olivia D’Amato as they were named Terrific Kids by the Levittown Kiwanis Club. Also attending were Pat and Jim Carney and Michael Pappas of the Levittown Kiwanis; Principal John Avena; Assistant Principal Craig Arvelo-Shaw; Superintendent of Schools Todd Winch; and Christopher Dalton, representing New York State Senator Steve Rhoads.

Senator Steve Rhoads and Assemblyman Charles Lavine with Hicksville High School’s FIRST Robotics team the JBirds

Senator Steve Rhoads, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz with Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School’s FIRST Robotics team the POBots.

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