Syosset Advance (6/23/23)

Town helps homeless children celebrate birthdays

“Don’t know much about history”

BY GEORGE HABER

The New York State Department of Education is evaluating whether to maintain the state-wide Regents exam in American History for high school students, and many Long Island educators are asserting their support of keeping the Regents exam.

Jericho Schools Superintendent Hank Grishman says that regardless of what a “Blue Ribbon” committee recommends, “American History coursework will continue to be required for graduation in Jericho.”

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Richard LaMarca recently delivered hundreds of new toys to Birthday Wishes of Long Island to support birthday parties for homeless children on Long Island. Birthday Wishes of Long Island is an amazing organization that serves thousands of homeless children and their families by bringing them the joy of celebrating a birthday and having a party. For additional information on Birthday Wishes of Long Island or to make a donation, please visit https://birthdaywishes.org/. To volunteer at Birthday Wishes of Long Island, please call (516) 390-3505.

Terrapin Awareness Day

The Town of Oyster Bay, along with the Friends of the Bay, will be co-hosting their annual Terrapin Awareness Day and Beach Cleanup on Sunday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Center Island Beach.

“The Town of Oyster Bay joined forces with Friends of the Bay to launch ‘Team Terrapin,’ to help protect the Diamondback Terrapin turtle, as this small species lives in fresh or brackish waters in our Town,” said Council-

woman Laura Maier. “The turtles, which have distinctive diamond-shaped rings covering their shells, have a near-threatened conservation status and we are working with our environmental part-

See page 11

Grishman said his colleagues in other districts echo his perspective. “We strongly disapprove of any devaluing of the History regents exam or the teaching of American history and civics,” he said. They believe it’s important

for students to have a grasp of the heritage and values that helped form the United States.

“I don’t know what’s behind the movement to eliminate the History regents exam,” Grishman said. The Blue Ribbon committee, consisting of some fifty educators and others involved in public school education, is expected to issue its recommendation in the fall.

Grishman said Jericho students in the 7th and 8th grades are taught American History, and in the 9th and 10th grades World History and in the 11th grade American History.

“Our students are given a solid background in both global and American history,” he said. “We will continue to maintain these courses.”

Jericho yogurt business burglarized

Nassau County Police have reported that 16 Handles Yogurt, located at 22 Jericho Turnpike in Jericho, was burglarized at 4:15 a.m. on Thursday, June 15

According to detectives, an employee who arrived at the business the following morning found that the rear door of the business

was damaged and unlocked. She also round that the business had been rummaged through and the cash register drawers were missing.

According to police, surveillance video showed that a sus-

See page 11

Arrest for illegal gun possession

Nassau County Police arrested an Ohio man on Friday, June 16, for allegedly possessing an illegal firearm.

According to police, officers on patrol near the Econo Lodge, 429 Duffy Avenue, observed Anthony Landon, urinating on a sidewalk. Police say they recovered a loaded firearm from Landon. He was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, and Disorderly Conduct.

Attempted

in Syosset

Nassau County Police are investigating an attempted burglary of a Syosset home on Thursday, June 15, at 4:38 a.m.

According to police, the homeowner of a residence on Circle Drive was awoken by a loud noise that came from the first floor of his home. As the homeowner, 45, walked downstairs he observed two unknown men

cle’s door handles in an attempt to gain access to the vehicles. However, the vehicles were locked. The subjects then entered the rear yard and attempted to open the rear sliding glass door, which was locked. They then tried a basement window, causing damage to the window and making the loud noise. No entry was made into vehicles or home and noth -

Are you a professional?

Oyster Bay Railroad Museum

Loaded firearm recovered during arrest.

Attention students!

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

Anthony Landon

Jericho Water District celebrates centennial with barbecue

Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan (D – Woodbury) joined with community leaders and his colleagues in government in celebrating the Jericho Water District’s 100th anniversary on Wednesday, June 7. During a centennial ceremony and a barbecue sponsored by Iavarone Brothers, Legislator Lafazan presented a Nassau County Legislature Citation to Jericho Water District officials in honor of a century of community service.

Founded in 1923, the Jericho Water District provides drinking water for approximately 58,000 people over a 37 square mile service area. Water is drawn from the Magothy and Lloyd Aquifers through 25 wells — some of which are more than 700 feet deep. The district, which maintains 350 linear miles of water mains, plays a major role in public safety by providing service for 3,600 fire hydrants within its coverage area.

“For 100 years, the Jericho Water District’s employees, administration, and commissioners have tirelessly worked to ensure clean and safe drinking water on demand for all homeowners — a proud tradition that continues today,” Legislator Lafazan said. “We

Levittown man arrested for fireworks

Nassau County Police arrested a Levittown man on June 19 for allegedly possessing and selling illegal fireworks. According to detectives, Paul S. Krill, 34, was placed under arrest during an investigation conducted by Arson Bomb Squad detectives. Police say that detectives seized 49 cases of assorted fireworks from Krill's garage.

Krill is charged with Unlawful Selling of Fireworks, Unlawful Storage of Explosives and Unlawful Possession of ExplosivesWithout Licenses and Certificates.

Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan (D – Woodbury) helped celebrate the Jericho Water District’s 100th anniversary.

owe them all a debt of gratitude for their work for their hard work and look forward to 100 more incredible years of service. Congratulations to the Jericho Water District for achieving this historic milestone!”

Congratulations to the 2023 Class of Gold Award Girl Scouts

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn. These 55 young women are courageous leaders and visionary changemakers who are making meaningful, sustainable changes in Nassau County, their communities and around the world. They are our future, and the future looks bright!

Albertson

Shalini Samuel

Baldwin

Vanessa Osse

Bayville

Kylie Daly

East Meadow

Lauren Rodriguez

East Norwich

Mariana Panariello

Farmingdale

Alexa Frontino

Faith Williams

Floral Park

Ella Iannitti

Rebecca Reisig

Franklin Square

Caitlin Fitzpatrick

Garden City

Maria Dalia

Jaci Licari

Kathryn Maloney

Juliana Mitchell

Madeline Mitchell

Gretchen Murphy

Ella Pocock

Grace Power

Keira Regan

Cristina Seoylemezian

Ryan Sievers

Kennedy Wilgosz

Great Neck

Elizabeth Margiloff

Hempstead

Azaria Ellis

Lynbrook

Ryan Benvenuto

Sofia Yaker

Malverne

Anna Nealon

Manhasset

Noelle Bartul

Catherine Broderick

Cailey Held

Bella Rontiris

Massapequa

Audrey Pioreck

Shea Salamack

Massapequa Park

Lea Marie Mastorakis

Mineola

Julia DaSilva

Charlee Denzler

Grace Pizzardi

Samantha Vitale

North Bellmore

Lauren McCarthy

Oceanside

Emma DeFrancesco

Oyster Bay

Kate Webster

Rockville Centre

Emma Lincks

Seaford

Nicole Nietsch

Syosset

Erica Borzone

Shannen Fung

Wantagh

Angelina Bendetti

Corinne Kassatly

Hannah Popadin-

Lesniak

Nicole Tobia

West Hempstead

Sophia Cano

Brianna Suarez

Oubina

Ava Zino

Westbury

Yasmine Mathew

Sarah Vincent

Williston Park

Ava Schmidt

To learn more about the Gold Award visit gsnc.org/gold or scan the QR code above.

Paul S. Krill

Syosset Troop 170’s newest Eagle Scouts

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) honored Ian Louie and Connor Chan — Syosset Boy Scout Troop 170’s newest Eagle Scouts — during a Court of Honor ceremony held at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church in Syosset on Saturday, May 20. During the ceremony, Legislator Drucker presented Nassau County Legislature Citations to Ian and Connor in recognition of the accomplishments and community service that earned them the highest rank in

Scouting.

“By dedicating themselves to community service, these impressive young men have already done a great deal to strengthen the fabric of their community,” Legislator Drucker said. “The leadership skills they have gained during their journey to the pinnacle of Scouting will certainly serve them well in the years ahead, and I wish Ian and Connor tremendous success as they continue to pursue their dreams.”

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Eagle Scout Connor Chan with Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker and his parents.

Eagle Scout Ian Louie with Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (left) and his family.

The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating customized social activities that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. And, in the process, create the one-of-a-kind community we are, too.

See for yourself. Explore all of our locations in the tri-state area. thebristal.com

Chicks hatch from shells at Gardiner’s Ave. Elementary School

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

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

Neil Diamond — Music Icon (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Richard Knox, retired teacher

Few American songwriters and vocalists have contributed more to the world of popular music over the last half-century than Neil Diamond. Ten of his songs have reached the #1 position on the Billboard charts with 28 others reaching top ten status. He has sold over 130 million records. During this program we will have an opportunity to watch videos of some of Neil’s most memorable numbers as we revisit his career from his early years growing up in Brooklyn through his many concert and television appearances. No registration needed.

Saturday, June 24, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

SY-CON Presents Bricks Rock!

An All Ages LEGO Fan Festival (IN-PERSON)

Olivia Lin, a student in Ms. Seniuk’s kindergarten class at Gardiners Avenue Elementary School, held a baby chick that hatched at the school.

After an exciting period of anticipation, students at Gardiners Avenue Elementary School in the Levittown Public School District finally watched chicks hatch from their eggs.

The eggs came to Gardiners Avenue in May and were put in an incubator to help them grow. Kindergarten stu -

dents learned about the life cycle of chicks and the unique traits that help them hatch. It took about 21 days for the eggs to hatch, and the kindergartners waited patiently for the big day. Eight chicks in total were hatched, and students had to opportunity to safely meet them up close.

Check out displays of professional-grade LEGO models presented by I LUG NY, the region’s premier LEGO user group; activities include free builds and more!

Sunday, June 25, at 1:00 p.m. Beatles Tribute Concert with Penny Lane (IN-PERSON)

Hear classic 60s and 70s pop-rock tunes made famous by the fab four! Penny Lane recreates the legacy of The Beatles from all the band’s periods with pure sound and tight vocal harmonies, Get ready for an exciting show! Registration required. To register, go to syossetlibrary.org

Tuesday, June 27, at 2:00 p.m. Afternoon Book Discussion (IN PERSON)

Join Kay Spurrell, Readers’ Services Librarian for a Book Discussion of “The Guncle” by Steven Rowley. No registration needed.

Thursday, June 29, 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, June 29, at 2:00 p.m. Spencer Tracey (HYBRID)

Presenter: Marc Courtade, retired arts director Spencer Tracey was an American actor noted for his natural style and versatility. His approach to acting is quoted as “learn your lines and don’t bump into the furniture”. Many consider him the greatest actor of his generation. The body of his work is enormous with 78 films to his credit. He received nine Academy Award nominations winning twice. Join us for a look at some great memories of his acting career. No registration needed for in-person or Zoom. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Thursday, June 29, at 7:00 p.m.

Writing Workshop with Erin Coughlin: Start Your Own Sci-Fi/ Fantasy Series (VIRTUAL)

Learn how to create your own fictional fantasy series! Participate in fun writing prompt exercises guaranteed to help you start developing your plot, characters and settings. Discover tricks used by classic and contemporary storytellers that will strengthen your writing skills, boost your creative confidence and jump start your own fantasy series! Writers of all levels are welcome. Registration required. To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, June 30, at 1:00 p.m. Cavatelli Pasta Class (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Judy Boshnack

Each person will make their own batch of pasta dough and then shape their cavatelli using assorted cavarola and gnocchi boards and cavatelli machines. You will go home with the recipe and approximately 1 lb. of beautifully embossed pasta. Registration needed. Fee: $5.00 To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Charlie Cacace enjoyed the special experience outdoors.

Ryan Drayton Jr. in Ms. Bergersen’s class was excited for an opportunity to meet the baby chick.

Ariel Vanderhyden patiently waited in anticipation for the chicks to hatch.

Congratulations to the Friends Academy Class of 2023

We know you will change the world for the better

Friends Academy’s graduates have achieved educational excellence by committing to the highest standards of learning and living. We congratulate them on their next journey knowing they are exceptionally prepared for college and a life of authentic purpose.

The Class of 2023 is headed to...

American University

Barnard College

Binghamton University

Boston Conservatory at Berklee

Boston University

Brandeis University

Carnegie Mellon University

Clemson University

Colby College

Colgate University

College of the Holy Cross

Cornell University

Dartmouth College

Davidson College

Emory University

Eton College

Fordham University

Georgetown University

Hamilton College

Hartwick College

Howard University

Indiana University

Johns Hopkins University

Kenyon College

Lehigh University

Manhattan School of Music

Middlebury College

New York University

Northeastern University

Occidental College

Pratt Institute

Princeton University

Purdue University

Quinnipiac University

Reichman University (IDC Herzliya)

Rochester Institute of Technology

Southern Methodist University

Syracuse University

The Culinary Institute of America

The George Washington University

The University of Texas at Austin

Tulane University of Louisiana

University of California Irvine

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Miami

University of Michigan

University of Mississippi

University of Pennsylvania

University of Southern California

University of St Andrews

University of Virginia

University of Wisconsin

Villanova University

Wake Forest University

Washington University in St Louis

William & Mary

Yale University

Legislators present awards to JHS seniors

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Saturday, June 24

1:00 p.m.: Summer Reading Kick-Off (For All Ages) - Let’s kick this summer off right! Join us outside the Library for an ice-cream treat (while supplies last), balloon animals for our younger patrons and register for the children, teen or adult Summer Reading Program. Get a starting gift when you sign up! A valid Jericho Library card is required.

Monday, June 26

7:00 p.m.: Teens: Friendship Bracelet/Keychain with the Whaling Museum - Sailors ’ knots have been holding things together for thousands of years. Master one to create a sea-inspired friendship bracelet or keychain to take home or share with a pal, and find out how teens around the world are working to protect our oceans. Participants will earn 1 hour of community service credit.

Tuesday, June 27 2:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON : News

Nassau County Legislators Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) and Joshua Joshua Lafazan (D – Woodbury) recently recognized several seniors at Jericho High School during the school's annual Senior Awards Night on Monday, June 12th.

Legislator Lafazan presented Nassau County Legislature Citations to honorees Breanna Paris Crossman and Eric Zimmerman during the ceremony. Legislator Drucker presented a Community

Service Award to Sujay Sundar.

“These students are passionate advocates for their community who are dedicated to improving society and the lives of others,” Legislator Lafazan said.

Legislator Drucker noted that, “In just a few short years, Sujay Sundar has proven himself to be an outstanding student with a passion for learning who demonstrates tremendous compassion and a devotion to helping others overcome challenges."

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

Wednesday, June 28

7:00 p.m.: HYBRID : Exploring the Basics of Artificial Intelligence with Michael BartolomeoArtificial intelligence (AI) continues to be the latest buzzworthy topic floating around the tech world. This pervasive and powerful form of artificial intelligence is changing every industry. While not everyone needs to know the technical details, they should understand what the technology can and cannot do. Join us for an introduction into the world of AI and its implications for everyday life. From ChatGPT to Stable Diffusion, you’ll leave with a “ byte-sized ” understanding of how it is reshaping our world. Space is limited. Register on-line or at the Circulation Desk.

Syosset School Board to meet

The Syosset Board of Education will hold its monthly meeting at 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 6, at South Woods Middle School, 99 Pell Lane, Syosset.

The meeting will begin with a public hearing on the District Wide

School Safety Plan. The regular meeting will immediately follow. The public is welcome to attend. The meeting can also be viewed via livestream broadcast on the dist rict website, www.jerichoschools.org

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker with Jericho High School student Sujay Sundar during Jericho High School Senior Awards Night.

Photo courtesy Office of Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

From left: Jericho High School seniors Eric Zimmerman and Breanna Paris Crossman with Legislator Lafazan. Photo courtesy of Office of Legislator Joshua Lafazan

When Every Child is

Known, it’s even

to say goodbye.

harder

We proudly present the Green Vale Class of 2023. Their high level of academic achievement combined with strength of character and commitment to their interests led to acceptances at many of the most selective secondary schools in the country. These graduates join generations of alumni committed to improving the world.

High Schools for 2023 Graduates

The American School in Switzerland

Berkshire School

Chaminade High School

Choate Rosemary Hall

Convent of the Sacred Heart

Deerfield Academy

Eaglebrook School

Episcopal High School

Friends Academy

The Hotchkiss School

Kent School

Locust Valley High School

The Nightingale-Bamford School

Paul Schreiber High School

Phillips Academy (Andover)

Portledge School

Sacred Heart Academy

to our graduates and their families:

Ashani Ahuja, Margaret Anderson, Lalla Lee Argenti, River Aryeh, LuElla Bacon, Halsey Beard, William Busconi, Leyla Casimir, Kento Cavallo, Penelope Chun, Henry Crofton, Clover Curry, Noah Daher, Paige D’Anna, Tristan Delacroix, Michael Dorrian, Sienna Edgar, Veronica Edwards, Luke Ferraro, Piper Fredericks, William Garcia, Elizabeth Gokey, Lauren Graham, Thomas Grant, JR Janedis, Samantha Jurim, Henry Kasouf, William Kelly, Abigail Lenehan, Hunter L’Esperance, Reese L’Esperance, Lilly McMillen, Caroline Myles, Chase O’Brien, Alastriona O’Donnell, Julian Otto, Isabella Panossian, Oggie Phipps, Leo Remsha, Scarlett Rueger, Marina Saravi, Michael Sharifov, Jack Sheehan, Etelle Silvera, Emma Slonim, Hutson Staniford, Helen Uffelman, Lachlan Vogel, Lucy Woodhouse, Davis Zarou, Taylor Zarou

St. Paul’s School

The Spence School

The Stony Brook School

The Taft School

Westminster School

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIZATION TRUST 2007-A8 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-H, V.

HEEJUNG JEONG, ET. AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated January 03, 2019, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIZATION TRUST 2007-A8 MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-H is the Plaintiff and HEEJUNG JEONG, ET AL. are the Defendant(s).  I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on July 11, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 59 BLUEBIRD DRIVE, SYOSSET, NY 11791:  Section 15, Block 101, Lot 14:

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT SYOSSET, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 005966/2016. Brian Carmody, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. BRETT COHEN AND MONICA COHEN, Defendants.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 15, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, North Side steps, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, on July 6, 2023 at 2:00

P.M., premises known as 15 SPARROW LANE, WOODBURY, NY 11797. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being near Woodbury, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 12, Block: 529, Lot: 8. Approximate amount of judgment is $603,572.82 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609389/2019.

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee's attorney, or the Referee.

MARK S. RICCIARDI, Esq., Referee

Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Building permit amnesty program

The Town of Oyster Bay recently approved a Building Permit Amnesty Program to provide for a six-month period for homeowners and commercial property owners to obtain the necessary permits required on building improvements previously completed, without incurring late fees and penalties. This Building Permit Amnesty Program is open now through the end of 2023.

“This Building Permit Amnesty Program allows residents and business owners with unpermitted and previously-completed improvement projects to legalize their property and avoid costly fines and penalties,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “All Towns require building permits on home and business improvements to ensure work is completed in accordance with workmanship and safety standards.”

The Town of Oyster Bay’s Building Permit Amnesty Program applies to all permits, including fence, decking, plumbing and all aspects of construction. Residents can call the Town’s Department of Planning and Development for additional information on their specific project.

During the amnesty period, standard fees will cover the entire building application process. To begin the process for a building permit, call the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Planning and Development’s Building Division at (516) 6246200 or visit the department at Town Hall North in Oyster Bay (74 Audrey Avenue) or at Town Hall South in Massapequa (977 Hicksville Road). For more information, visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

Free pool safety seminar Town blood drive planned for June 27

The Town of Oyster Bay is partnering with Catholic Health to offer residents and non-residents a Free Pool Safety Seminar on Friday, July 7, at Syosset-Woodbury Park. Families are encouraged to attend as children under the age of 15 make up more than 78 percent of pool submersion injuries in the United States annually, with 67 percent of them including children under the age of three. Pre-registration is not required for this event.

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “Nothing is more important than the safety of our children, and to improve pool safety we offer this seminar to with the goal of saving lives

through public education and awareness. We want you to have lots of fun in the sun while always be prepared to respond to emergencies.”

Seminar attendees will learn from professionals about healthy swimming, basic first aid, hypothermia, cramping, drowning prevention, basic CPR (not certification), recreational water wellness and EMA ambulance education. The seminar is sponsored by Optimum, News 12, KJOY 98.3FM, WHLI 1100AM, MAX FM 103.1, Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation and Nassau County. For more information, call (516) 7974121 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com

Syosset Library features June Artist of the Month

With hospitals facing a nationwide blood shortage, the Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to attend a Blood Collection Drive on Tuesday, June 27, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 S. Broadway in Hicksville.

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

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

within the last 56 days. Anyone who received a tattoo within the past 12 months is ineligible to donate. It is recommended that donors eat well (low fat) and drink fluids in the days before the blood srive. Additionally, all donors will receive a voucher for a free Blizzard at Dairy Queen.

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

For additional information regarding the Town’s blood drive, contact the Town’s Public Information Office at (516) 624-6380. To make an appointment to donate at this blood drive, sign up today at https://bit.ly/3LpKRF5

Town plans Terrapin Awareness Day

From page 1

ners and local volunteers to help protect this vulnerable species.”

During this Terrapin Monitoring and Beach Cleanup Event, volunteers will be trained to identify signs of nesting terrapins and build protective cages around them. These structures keep natural predators like raccoons and fox away from the terrapins, thus contributing to their survival. The event

Details from work by Madhumita Sen, on view in the Syosset Library Gallery through June.

A neurobiologist, artist, and art instructor, Madhumita Sen explores the intersection of science and artistic creativity with a fine balance of structured and unstructured patterns similar to the patterns found in nature. “Through my art, I hope to spread happiness and joy, encouraging my audience to appreciate the simplicity and complexity of nature,” she says.

Working with acrylic and mixed media, Ms. Sen pushes the boundaries of her own creativity and experiments with new techniques and materials. Her works are colorful, bold, and vibrant. She also focuses on abstract expression using fluid art and other techniques and recycled household materials in some of her works.

“I like to bring out the connections

between art and science,” she says. “In my artwork, I project the optical illusion, three dimensional ideas, perspectives, and symmetry, thereby expressing scientific knowledge through art.”

As an art instructor, Ms. Sen is committed to nurturing and growing the talent of young artists and empowering them with the tools and techniques to express themselves through art. “Creativity is essential to human development, and I am blessed to be able to contribute to the growth and enrichment of my students.”

Syosset Library is located at 225 South Oyster Bay Road in Syosset. For more information about programs, services, and hours, call 516-921-7161, or visit the library or the website at www. syossetlibrary.org.

features a beach cleanup and tours of nesting sites.

Terrapins can be found along the northern shore of Oyster Bay, especially at Centre Island Beach, with a large population at the head of Mill Neck Creek near Beaver Dam. To register for the event, volunteers should visit www. friendsofthebay.org/volunteer-registration.html.

Jericho yogurt business burglarized

wearing a dark colored sweatshirt and mask.

pect entered the store and removed an undetermined amount of cash as well as a small safe, and headed westbound toward Jericho Turnpike. The proceeds were thought to be about $2700. The suspect is described as male, Black, and

Our

From page 1 Do

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

June 23, 2023

Staycation! Immersive World of Harry Potter Exhibition

Enchants New York But Only for Limited Time

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Fans and superfans alike will be ecstatic to be immersed in the newly opened Harry Potter: The Exhibition, the most comprehensive touring exhibition ever presented on Harry Potter and the entire Wizarding World, which has traveled to Herald Square in midtown Manhattan but only for a limited time.

To call it an “exhibition” is an understatement. On every level –from the actual costumes, wands, props (the Sorting Hat! The Sword of Gryffindor! The Elder Wand! The Resurrection Stone!) from all the Harry Potter plus Fantastic Beasts™ movies and Broadway’s  Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – to the opportunity to compete for points for your House by casting a spell, preparing a potion, trying your hand at Quidditch, summoning your Patronus– you feel you are part of this magical world. The experience is completely personalized, individualized for you as you take this journey through magnificently crafted, magical environments with the aid of remarkable design and technology. It is truly immersive, truly interactive, truly experiential, truly enchanting.

Our visit starts with choosing a Hogwarts House (a photo is snapped of you in the sorting hat), a wand, a Patronus, all encoded in an RFID wristband that you use to log in at various stations to capture interactions and deliver an absolutely personalized experience, designed to not

Fans and superfans alike will be ecstatic to be immersed in the newly opened Harry Potter: The Exhibition, the most comprehensive touring exhibition ever presented on Harry Potter and the entire Wizarding World, is on view in Herald Square in midtown Manhattan but only for a limited time © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

merely put you in the story, but put you into the films’ creation.

We are ushered into the From Page to Screen Gallery  where a first edition of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is ensconced in a Gringotts-inspired vault. We are surrounded by inspirational video and literary quotes and enthusiastic guides introduce us “first years” to the exhibition – we feel the same sense of wonder and being new to Hogwarts as Harry, Ron and Hermione would have felt as first years.

We next move into the Hogwarts Castle Gallery  featuring an immersive multimedia experience with the castle as a backdrop for iconic elements like the Whomping Willow

and Dementors and see ourselves on the Marauder’s Map.

Walking through the Great Hall Gallery we get to see the same paintings as the students would see going into their House, and learn that filmmakers lined the walls with more than 200 paintings, some based on real art and some on subjects that included members of the film crew and their families.

The  Hogwarts Houses  gallery allows us personalized moments with the Hogwarts house we selected during our registration (I selected Gryffindor) but we still get to experience noteworthy tidbits about all the Hogwarts houses and their important characters. The celebratory hall feature an iconic Sorting Hat (perfect

for photo ops) and Sword of Gryffindor, and house crests on meticulously created stained glass windows.

The Great Hall has some tables where we can sit, with the backdrop from the movie, and learn that the set designer made the floor of York stones that lasted through 10 years of onscreen Hogwarts students walking, running, dancing; there were four 100 ft custom-made tables that were distressed to suggest their longevity and the actors were encouraged to write and draw on the tables. In the first film, real candles were suspended from the ceiling but there were safety concerns, so they switched to digital and had five sizes of CGI candles coded for six varied flames so no two were the same.

Hogwarts  Classrooms  are filled with iconic props, creatures, and costumes. We get to interact with magical lessons and games through digital touchscreens to reveal behindthe-scenes secrets about iconic classroom moments. We even get to brew potions in the Potions Classroom (there’s a recipe book), predict the future in Divination, pot a mandrake in the Herbology Greenhouse, and use their digital wand to defeat a boggart in Defense Against the Dark Arts – all earning points for our House.

Hagrid’s Hut and The Forbidden Forest  offer an interactive Patronus charm experience (I get to conjure up mine, a terrier). We then uncover iconic creatures, such as centaurs and Acromantula, hidden in the forest.

In the Tri Wizard tournament section, we learn that 35 costumes

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Immersive World of Harry Potter Exhibition

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were created just for Harry (these included the before and after and costumes for doubles and stunt doubles) and then get to see the enormous dragon (selfie! – in fact, so many Instagrammable scenes throughout).

In the Quidditch section (there’s an actual Golden Snitch!), we get to throw a Quaffle through a hoop to rack up points. We learn that filming was a grueling experience for the actors who had to straddle the brooms while suspended in air. But in the “Azkaban” film, they finally put foot pedals and bicycle seats on the broom and gave the actors extra padding for their behinds that would be concealed under their uniforms. (Chris Columbus wanted Quidditch to have the same flair and excitement of Muggle sports but needed a crash course in the rules from author J.K. Rowling before filming.

I love learning about how the costumes, wands and such changed over the course of the different films, as the characters grew and matured, as mores changed, how the designers literally weave the character into the costume with subtle touches, textures, lines, and learning the actors’ reactions as well as their input.

As a superfan, I am particularly enthralled by the notes that accompany each of the rooms – like chapters in the book or scenes in the movie – that begin with putting you back into the story, but then adding on the fascinating creative backstory.

So we learn that when graphic designers Miraphorn Mina and Eduardo lima were tasked with cre-

ating four-walls-worth of a tapestry portraying Sirius Black’s family tree in number Twelve, Grimmauld Place, they knew the names of some of his relatives from the books, but needed many more to fill an entire room. So producer David Heyman called JK Rowling and asked if she could provide further information on the Noble 7 Most Ancient house of Black. Almost immediately, she sent back several pages with five generations of names indicating births, marriages and deaths, plus the family crest and motto.

Importantly, learning the backstory of how the effect was created doesn’t burst the bubble or the delight in the illusion that is film.

Tom Zaller, the CEO of Imagine Exhibitions that created the Harry Potter exhibition in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and EMC Presents, knows the importance of preserving the magic – his backstory includes a longtime association with the magician David Copperfield. His company, renowned for creating blockbuster exhibitions (Titanic, Jurassic World, Downtown Abbey, DaVinci), was approached by Warner Bros. to create this exhibition. (Imagine currently has 45 different exhibitions on view around the world, including a second World of Harry Potter Exhibition in Paris with different original elements). All the original costumes, artifacts and props belong to Warner Bros. – Imagine created the sets, the immersive experiences, and the illuminating notes that explain the exhibits.

The Harry Potter: The Exhibition premiered in Philadelphia a year ago,

then went to Atlanta, and has already drawn one million visitors in the two venues, and will continue to tour after leaving New York City.

After using the portkey to travel to the Ministry of Magic, I find Zaller sitting behind Dolores Umbridge’s desk. I ask how the notes were made – they have so much information yet are so concise; they put you into the story, but then give you the creative backstory. He tells me they worked closely with Warner Bros. and the people who worked on the film, the play and the themepark. “We went behind the scenes to learn why choices were made.”

Zaller, who has been producing block buster exhibitions for decades, says, “This is the biggest, baddest, most wonderful... We try to satisfy the fan and the super fan.”

I confess my thrill at seeing the actual Sorting Hat, the actual sword of Gryffindor, the actual Golden Snitch, the actual Elder Wand, the actual Resurrection Stone, mixing a potion, throwing a Quaffle, conjuring up my Patronus (10 points for Gryffindor!), and being in the places in three-dimension, that you either imagine in your mind from the books, or see on film.

The exhibit is well set up for the numbers of people who will be coming through – many stations for photos, wands, spells, divination, potions, repotting the howling mandrakes (which turns out to have been a real thing that jk Rowling incorporated, among the other real spells and magic traditions, like the Sorcerer’s stone).

Clever use of video (film), sound effects, even smells, and thank good-

NUTRITION NEWS

Pantry or Refrigerator?

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Where to store various foods can be tricky at times. We know milk, meat and eggs belong in the fridge. But many foods are less obvious. Should butter be kept in the refrigerator or out on the counter?

Will bananas turn black in the refrigerator?

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers a list of foods you may not be refrigerating but should be. Storing them in the fridge will help keep them safe and tasting great longer.

Tortillas -- Some tortillas are prone to molding. That’s why the fine print on many tortilla packages recommends refrigerating after opening. Chill tortillas to help them stay fresh. The date on their package is for quality purposes, so when stored properly, they may be consumed beyond their date, if there are no signs of spoilage.

Salami -- Cured meats, including sa-

lami, are less likely to harbor bacteria than cooked meats, but that doesn’t mean they’re always 100% safe. Refrigeration can slow potential bacterial growth, but people who are at higher risk of foodborne illness, such as pregnant women, older adults and people with weakened immune systems should heat ready-to-eat foods such as lunch and deli meats. Store unopened salami in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. After opening, it should be consumed within three to five days.

Ripe bananas -- It’s fine to ripen bananas on the kitchen counter. Trouble is, they keep ripening, and ripening and ripening. Once they’re ready to eat, pop them in the fridge for up to three days. The peel may turn brown, but they’re still fine to eat.

Avocados -- Like bananas, avocados will continue ripening. Once they’re at the stage you like, put them in the refrigerator. You can also take the peel off and

freeze the flesh for use in a smoothie.

Nuts -- Nuts’ fragile unsaturated fats can go rancid quickly. While that may not hurt your health, it can definitely be bad news for flavor. Keep nuts tasting fresh by stowing them in a sealed plastic or glass container in the refrigerator for four to six months.

Whole-wheat flour -- This flour can also go rancid quickly. You can refrigerate it or freeze it to prolong its life and taste.

Maple syrup -- Maple syrup has a surprisingly short shelf life. So if yours is sitting in your pantry, it’s time to relocate it to the fridge. Stored in the refrigerator, maple syrup usually can stay fresh for up to a year. However, if you notice any mold growth, be sure to toss it immediately.

Dried fruit -- Dried fruit has less moisture than fresh fruit, so it doesn’t spoil as quickly, but refrigeration can help it maintain its freshness longer. Keep it in the main compartment of your refrigera-

ness the musical score of the films is so marvelous, because musical segments provide the soundtrack in each of the areas (and smartly the sound tracks do not overreach)

We get to see the Voldemort’s horcruxes - Tom Riddle’s diary and the Basilisk fang used to destroy Tom Riddle’s diary in “Chamber of Secrets”, Hufflepuff’s Cup, Ravenclaw’s diadem, , the iconic Resurrection stone, Deatheater’s cloak, even the invisibility cloak (spoiler alert: it’s invisible), Dumbledore’s Elder Wand,

You even get to fight the final battle of Hogwarts, activating the wands held by Harry and Voldemort (choose who you want to be).

It’s supposed to take 60 to 90 minutes to go through, but I love reading the notes and studying the objects so much, I spend over two hours.

See it here in New York, then go see it in Paris.

Harry Potter™: The Exhibition  has transformed its space at 50 W. 34th Street (34th Street and Broadway), easily accessible from Penn Station, Port Authority and many subway stations. Tickets (for timed entry, but you can stay as long as you want) start at $29 for adults. The exhibition also offers a VIP ticket experiences with a flex schedule, commemorative lanyard, free access to the  Harry Potter. A full schedule can be found at  www.harrypotterexhibition.com

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

tor for up to six months.

Ketchup -- Restaurants may leave their ketchup on the table, but that doesn’t

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Crossword Answers

A cozy new home comes together

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Ever since she was a young girl Dana liked looking at houses. She was fascinated with all different types of houses and as she got older her interest grew even more. She asked questions about the Tudors and the cape cod houses and the colonials. Dana took in all the information and remembered every detail she was told. She had an instinctive eye for design and when it was time to go to college, Dana majored in architecture. To her relatives, that major was no surprise. It was right up her alley.

When Dana married Brett after college graduation, they decided to work for themselves. They started out by purchasing and renovating old cottages, small houses that needed good paint jobs, insulation, heating, window air conditioning units and some overall fixing up. Most times Dana and Brett added some modern conveniences like dishwashers and microwave ovens.

Most of these old cottages were close to the beaches. Many people used them as second homes - in the summertime when the living was good and their time was more leisurely. They could fish, go swimming and work on their suntans. The cottages were basic houses, too small and rustic for year ‘round living but perfect places for people who drove out from the city to Suffolk County for vacations and long weekends. They were convenient and handy.

Brett had majored in construction management so in many ways Dana and Brett were the perfect pair. They figured they’d start out small and go from there. The cottages were ideal in that sense. They’d say they were going to work that day to fix up “the cottage,” whichever one was their focus at that time, and they saw the charm and the potential in each one. The cottages were like shiny pearls waiting to be unearthed and discovered.

It took some hard work for the old cottages to be transformed into the homes they could be but Dana and Brett were diligent about working on them and hired subcontractors to do

their magic. In time their projects were complete.

Dana and Brett proudly showed off their finished cottages once fully renovated. Inviting their friends and relatives to come and take a look, they’d stand back in the glistening sun and admire their handiwork.

But first they gave us a bit of history. In America, the Cottage Revival style of houses was made popular during the 1920s. There was a housing boom in this country after World War I ended. Many people said those homes brought cozy charm and whimsical craftsmanship to tree-lined streets in communities across the country. The cottage-style homes used elements of classic English architecture. That’s what made them quaint and attractive. In England many of the cottage-style homes have thatched roofs but in this country most have sturdy, practical roofs.

One day several of us went to look at their latest project and we were impressed. Dana and Brett were especially proud of this one because they had renovated it for themselves. It wasn’t for their weekend getaways from Queens where they were from - this house was for year ‘round living. It would be their new home. We were happy to have a tour of the cottage so we started outside.

Fresh coats of paint on the exterior of the house made it shine. They had chosen a medium blue color for the exterior that was warm and welcoming. Beautiful, it reminded me of the color of the sky. We admired the asymmetrical roofs because they were so typical of old cottages. The oversized chimney stood up top proudly, ready to huff and puff and do its job on cold days.

Walking along a brick pathway to the back of the house, Dana started our indoor tour in the rear where it featured a wide enclosed porch that was ground level and looked out at a huge garden. Dana used the room for her sewing and scrapbooking projects that was off to the side. Several large comfortable chairs were ready for their occupants,

owners and visitors alike, to enjoy the view year ‘round in all types of weather. They were indoors but the elements were just inches away so you could see the rain pounding down and almost taste the fine snow when it fell on cold, wintry days.

Leaving the porch, we headed through a large arched doorway toward the front of the house and passed two bedrooms as we went. One was on the left and the other was on the right. The main room at the front of the house was the living room, what people used to call “the parlor,” and it was perfect for entertaining guests or having family movie nights. As we toured, I noticed that their cottage had plenty of windows that let in lots of natural light.

Dana and Brett had chosen Miller Place as their home town because it was near the Long Island Sound and their block was a quiet street. At sundown in late summer they’d hear the sounds of the cicadas as they sang and every morning they thought the sunrises were the most beautiful they’d ever seen. Early risers, Dana and Brett

would sit on the porch drinking coffee and looking at nature right outside their windows. The robins, the blue birds and the red-winged blackbirds were a joy to behold. Fascinated, they’d watch their backyard birds looking for food and drinking from a water fountain they had set up for them.

They knew they had chosen and renovated their new home wisely when they slept well each night and couldn’t wait to arise each morning. Heading off to their jobs during the week, they’d return each evening to enjoy their “blue cottage.” It was amazing.

On weekends they’d go to the beach at Miller Place. Looking up and out at the Connecticut shoreline, they’d happily spot bits of Bridgeport and Milford. Dana and Brett would put their toes in the water to see if it was cold or just right for swimming. After a refreshing dip in the summertime Dana and Brett would return home, content. They had found paradise in Miller Place and their blue cottage.

This is fiction.

The Miserly Social Security Death Benefit

BY TOM MARGENAU

About a month ago, I wrote a column explaining what family members need to do when a loved one who was getting Social Security benefits dies. I primarily discussed what might need to be done about returning the last Social Security check (depending on the timing of the death). I also used that column to help a surviving spouse know what possible widow’s (or widower’s) benefits might be due and how to apply for them.

And I only briefly mentioned the $255 “death benefit” that is sometimes payable. I guess that was a mistake because I got lots of follow-up emails asking me about that most miserly of all Social Security benefits. It has an interesting history.

It didn’t start out as a death benefit, per se; at least not in the context it is thought of today. It certainly was never meant to be a “burial benefit” as many people call it.

As part of the thinking that went into the original Social Security Act passed in 1935, Congress realized that many of the new Social Security taxpayers would die before they ever had a chance to collect benefits. Or they would die without having earned enough “quarters of coverage” to be insured for survivor benefits for any dependents. So, they decided to compensate the families of a loved one who died with some form of reimbursement for the Social Security taxes that the deceased had paid into the system. They set up a one-time benefit they called the “lump sum death payment.” And it was originally intended to reimburse the family with an amount equal to 3.5% of the money the deceased had paid into the system.

It was supposed to be a temporary benefit because Congress knew that as time passed, most workers would be paying a sufficient amount of money into Social Security that they would be insured for survivor benefits. In other words, when a taxpayer died, the widow or widower (and any minor children) would get monthly benefits -- so this lump-sum payout would no longer be needed.

But as often happens with government programs, once you start paying a benefit, it’s hard to take it away. Over the years, there have been any number of proposals to eliminate the lump sum death payment. But as miserly as the benefit is, it’s a popular feature of the Social Security program, and politicians soon learned that to tamper with it meant an automatic loss in the next elec-

tion. So, the “temporary benefit” never went away.

But occasionally, Congress has made some relatively minor adjustments to the original law. In 1954, they capped the benefit at $255 -- and it’s remained at that level ever since. And in 1983, when politicians were looking for ways to save money in the Social Security system, they restricted the payment of the one-time death payment only to a “spouse who was living with the deceased at the time of death.”

And that’s where we are today. We have an essentially meaningless “death benefit” paid only to a widow or widower. Perhaps 50 years ago, $255 paid the cost of a funeral. Of course, today, it barely covers the price of the flowers. If I were the king of the Social Security world, I would do one of two things. I would raise the death benefit to something meaningful, like $2,500. Or I would simply eliminate it. But I’m a columnist, not a king. So, all I can do it explain the law and answer any questions you might have about it. Here are a few.

Q: My wife recently died. She was a homemaker all her life, so she was getting spousal benefits on my record. Everything went fine with stopping her Social Security checks. But I have two questions: When will I get the $255 death benefit? And will my benefit go up to give me credit for the spousal share that was being deducted from my checks?

A: I’m sorry, but the $255 death benefit is only paid on the account of someone who had worked and paid Social Security taxes. It sounds like your wife never did that because she was just receiving spousal benefits, not her own Social Security. The money paid to a spouse is just an “add on” benefit. In other words, nothing was taken out of your retirement check to pay her. So, your benefit rate will remain the same.

Q: My husband died 5 years ago when I was in my late 50s. I don’t ever remember getting the death benefit. Was it automatic?

A: No, it’s not automatic. You must apply for the death benefit. I’m not sure, but it might be too late to file for it now. To find out, call Social Security at 800772-1213.

Q: My father died on Feb. 25. My parents were divorced, although they were still close friends. My mother applied for and started getting divorced widow’s benefits on his re-

cord. But I have two questions: Why did she have to return his February check? And why didn’t she get the $255 death benefit?

A: If you go back and read that prior column I mentioned earlier, you will learn why no one was due the proceeds of your father’s February Social Security payment. In a nutshell, it’s because Social Security benefits are not pro-rated. Because your father didn’t live the entire month of February, the check for that month had to be returned. But there is an upside to that lack of proration. Your mother started getting divorced widow’s benefits for the whole month of February, even though she was a widow

for only three days in that month.

As far the death benefit goes, the law says it can only be paid to a widow who was living with the deceased at the time of death. I assume your divorced parents weren’t living together. So that’s why the $255 can’t be paid to her.

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

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers on page 2

Finding your next home in a challenging market

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

At this point in time, pretty much everyone is aware of how low the housing inventory is and how difficult the challenge is to find a house, townhome, condo, or co-op. More important is how high the interest rates are and the substantial cost of purchasing whether it be residential, condos, co-ops, or even investment properties.

Way back when rates were this high the price of a home, condo, co-op, or investment property was at least five times less costly and it appeared that most salaries were able to handle the monthly payments and cost of living. Today it’s a whole different ball game and the pressure on those trying to purchase and make an investment is much greater. No one knows, especially Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, when rates will subside and come down to a more affordable level so that more potential purchasers can get back in to become homeowners.

Even renting has become very expensive as so many married couples and singles have abandoned ship and are sitting on the sidelines in a rental or just staying where they are in a a parent’s home waiting for a more beneficial and advantageous time when interest rates become lower. That is the big $64,000 question!

As mentioned in last week’s column, a great number of people (182,000 in 2022) have left New York State completely for less costly states, like Texas, North and South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, and others, where overall taxes are considerably lower. However, here is a list of states that have no State income tax whatsoever: Texas, Florida, Alaska, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington,

and Wyoming.

But one must do their due diligence and check to see what other taxes those states levy in lieu of not having to charge income taxes to determine which state(s) have the greatest advantage financially to save you money. New York State needs to rethink how it taxes us and determine a better way to collect money, so we do not continue to lose our valuable resource, our people. I have my own ideas on how this could be accomplished, which I will propose in a future column.

In some situations where some homes were overpriced, there were price adjustments in February and March. But due to still strong demand from purchasers, prices have begun to increase once again. This does not mean all prices have increased, but mint and diamond homes are selling at a premium, at or above the asking list price. So for those who are paying outright for the purchase without financing or putting down a large down payment, let’s say 30-60%, the financing doesn’t appear to be a major problem.

When and if rates decrease, one can always refinance to reduce monthly mortgage payments. The important thought to keep in mind and to consider is that unless you are earning more money wherever you have it invested, and feel more comfortable handling it that way, then that is what you should continue to do.

When you consider the compounding effect of buying now, however, the

potential increase in your wealth could be far greater in an ownership position than waiting for interest rates and home prices to come down as that may take several years. As an example, if you buy a $900,000 home and put 20% down out of pocket and prices increase 1%, that’s an increase in value of $9,000 and you are leveraging that value today to earn that return and enjoy your home.

This, of course, is on paper. In order to earn the same 1% or more on your investment, you would have to have available, liquid $900,000 to invest in stocks, crypto, and triple tax-exempt bonds. Most do not have that amount of money. Predicting the rate of return on investments, all things being equal today, as many of you have experienced, is a precarious and uncertain journey. One must be absolutely certain of the outcome, which becomes futile and next to impossible to do.

So you need to do some calculations and strategizing to ascertain, the risks and rewards and understand what is really important, besides the rate of return. To be in an ownership position for the long term and over time, building appreciation and equity as you pay down your mortgage is a sort of forced saving. The other positive is that the money spent will enable your family to build and grow roots in the community as well as develop potential lifetime friendships.

How does one put a price and/or value on that? It is impossible and only you can determine what is most import-

ant for you and your family going forward. Also, being close to parents and relatives can be a variable in wanting and needing to stay put. Affordability is the defining factor.

Being creative and working with sellers to provide financing has worked for us very successfully in our brokerage and it makes for a win/win situation for all parties, enabling buyers to purchase and sellers to take advantage of saving and deferring capital gains. The other unfortunate option is wasting your money on a rental, providing the landlord with all the benefits, tax deductions, income, and appreciation, or residing in a parent’s home or leaving NYS altogether.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 40 years of experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S) as well as the new “Green Industry” Certification for eco-friendly construction and upgrades. For a “FREE” 15-minute consultation, value analysis of your home, or to answer any of your questions or concerns he can be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com or via https:// WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com Just email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your ideas or suggestions on future columns with your name, email, and cell number and he will call or email you back

Continued from page 2

mean you should. While its high acid content will keep most bacteria at bay, cool temperatures help maintain flavor and freshness. Refrigerate ketchup for up to six months.

Corn on the cob -- After picking, corn begins to lose its sugar content dramatically when left at room temperature. Unless you’re going to cook it right away, keep corn in the fridge -- husks and all -for one to two days.

Chocolate syrup -- Chocolate syrup is an easy way to make a glass of milk taste even better. But not if it has developed funny flavors. Chill yours after opening and you can enjoy it for six months.

Pecan and pumpkin pies -- Made with eggs, these treats are magnets for bacte-

ria. Fresh from the oven, they’re okay to eat at room temperature for up to two hours (only one hour if it is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit). After that, they should go straight into the fridge and be eaten within three to four days or frozen for another time.

As for butter, I recommend keeping it in the refrigerator. If you need to have it softened for spreading or use in a recipe, take it out for a short while. Butter can also be stored in the freezer.

RECIPE

If you need to take a lunch with you to work or on a picnic, consider a layered salad in a jar. It’s a convenient way to transport a healthy lunch. You can also make several at a time, as they will keep for several days in the refrigerator.

Here’s a recipe for a Chicken-Egg Salad. You can add any other vegetables you have on hand -- cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, mushrooms -- as well as cooked whole grains such as quinoa, farro or lentils. Note: A heartier lettuce works better than iceberg.

CHICKEN-EGG SALAD

Servings: 1

1 1/2 cups torn romaine lettuce or fresh spinach or baby kale

1/2 cup yellow sweet pepper strips

1/4 cup sliced fresh strawberries

2 tablespoons light olive oil and vinegar salad dressing

1 hard-cooked egg, quartered

1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast

2 tablespoons sliced green onion

2 tablespoons cucumber-dill Greek yogurt dip

1 ounce whole-grain baguette-style bread

In a quart-sized Mason jar, put dressing in first. Then add pepper, strawberries, green onion. Mix chicken and egg with yogurt dip. Add to jar. Spoon lettuce or spinach on top. Serve with bread.

Per serving: 337 calories, 23 g protein, 31 g carbohydrate, 13 g fat (3 g saturated), 219 mg cholesterol, 6 g fiber, 12 g sugars, 664 mg sodium.

(Recipe adapted from “Eat to Beat Diabetes.”)

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

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of June 25 - July 1, 2023

Summer is now upon us in the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere, and with it comes a changing canopy of stars that always transports me back to childhood.

It was a simpler, more innocent time -- a time when neighbors sat on their porches in the evenings, there was no school for at least several months, and ice cream or watermelon was all we ever needed to stay cool. Life seemed just about as good as it could be.

And it was on nights like these that I recall lying back on the cool grass of my backyard watching my favorite star, Antares. Its ruddy light always twinkled through the summertime haze that seemed to hang in the southern sky over the Coursens’ house.

What warm and comforting memories these are from such a magical time of discovery.

Though life has changed much for me since those halcyon days, Antares remains a wonderful friend. Even today, wherever I find myself on our huge planet, as Antares appears in the sky after dark, I get a huge smile on my face as I joyfully greet my nearest celestial childhood friend and reminisce about the wonderful times we’ve spent together.

That’s the power of making friends

My Longtime Celestial Friend

with the stars.

Antares played a prominent role in not only my life, but also the lives of many in early cultures. For example, in about 3000 B.C., Antares was considered one of the four “royal stars” of ancient Persia; some suggest it may have been the “lance star” referred to in the biblical Book of Job. Even the ancient Egyptians aligned temples with this star to make it part of their ceremonies.

Today, of course, we recognize Antares as a red supergiant that is nearing the end of its stellar life. This star is so immense that if brought to our solar system to replace our sun, the star’s atmosphere would engulf the orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars and would extend halfway to Jupiter. It lies so distant that the light we see tonight has been traveling through space for more than half a millennium.

In other words, if stargazers on a planet orbiting this aging star had a telescope powerful enough to monitor activity on our world some 550 light-years distant, they would now be watching the early decades of the Italian Renaissance ... in real time. Now how cool is that!

To me, it’s these tiny bits of information that help make Antares even more “personable.”

This remarkable star marks the heart of the celestial arachnid known as Scorpius, the scorpion, one of the most recognizable constellations in all the

heavens. Look for it this week rising in the south-southeastern sky after dark. You’ll have little trouble finding it; several stars outline its claws at the top, and a long curving stellar arc traces its tail and, at its very tip, its stinger. Yes, summertime is finally here. What a marvelous time of year to leave behind your mundane worries, travel to

LOST IN SUBURBIA Confessions of a Toilet Paper Hoarder

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

“Mom, why do you have 36 rolls of toilet paper, 12 bars of soap, eight tubes of toothpaste and six jars of hair gel?” asked my son, surveying the contents of my bathroom linen closet.

I followed his gaze to the interior of my closet. Admittedly, it looked less like a suburban linen closet and more like an aisle at Costco.

“I just want to make sure I don’t run out,” I explained.

“In case of what?” he wondered. “A zombie apocalypse? Do you think the zombies will take over the drug store and you won’t have access to any hair gel? I’m pretty sure they won’t care what your hair looks like when they try to eat you.”

I shrugged helplessly. My son had

discovered my secret: I was a toiletry hoarder. I had more moisturizer than you could shake a Q-tip at. More conditioner than a Kardashian. Enough shaving cream to shear a Yeti.

I had no idea why I felt the need to have an abundance of personal care supplies on hand. I suspected I might have suffered a traumatic toilet paper shortage as a child or possibly found myself at one time in my formative years critically deprived of hair mousse. Regardless of the cause, I was not happy unless I had enough products on hand to floss, brush and wipe a small, unkempt army.

My stockpiling was a relatively new thing. Back when we lived in the city, we didn’t have room to indulge my obsession. But out in the ‘burbs, I could warehouse as much mouthwash as I wanted. I didn’t care if that meant I had less room

for stuff like food and water. At least I knew my breath would always be minty fresh.

Still, I didn’t want my son to think I was a total weirdo. It’s one thing to have a mom who is meticulous about her personal hygiene. It’s quite another to have a mother who is so neurotic she could have her own show on TLC.

“They were having a special on soap,” I assured him. “And it was Toothpaste Triple Coupon Day... and Buy-12-RazorsGet-12-Free Day.”

He looked at me dubiously.

“Plus, I was the 500th customer, so I won enough mouthwash for a year.”

He raised an eyebrow.

“Also, I had signed up to be part of the Great Toilet Paper Challenge. Anyone who knew how to change a roll of toilet paper got 50% off 10 rolls.”

a dark location at night, lie on the grass and make friends with the stars.

And if you do, be sure to give Antares a warm smile for me!

Follow Dennis Mammana at facebook/dennismammana.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

I could see a trace of uncertainty start to appear on his face. He looked at the contents of my linen closet and then back at me. I knew I had one last chance to convince him that I was just thrifty, not crazy.

“And did I mention that I guessed the correct number of cotton swabs in a jar and won a lifetime supply of Q-Tips?” I proclaimed.

“Really?” He wondered. “And what about the hair gel?”

I nodded.

“That’s for the zombies.”

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

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EMPLOYMENT

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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RECEPTIONIST PART TIME NEEDED for Port Washington Animal Hospital. Including evenings/ weekends. Please call for interview/more info: 516-883-2005

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MARKETPLACE

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INVITED ESTATE SALES

BY TRACY JORDAN

is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now! Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516-279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. Visit us at www.invitedsales.com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

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MARKETPLACE

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GARAGE SALE

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Friday 6/23 & Saturday 6/24

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Contact Michael Sparacino: michael.sparacino@brosnanlaw.com

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

WILLISTON PARK PROFESSIONAL OFFICE

Space for rent. Partially furnished-2 Exec. offices. Reception area, Main floor, Private parking. $2900-p/m. Call Tony 516-248-4080

VACATION RENTAL

MATTITUCK

2 Bayfront Homes For Rent

One 3 BR, 2 BTH, One 2 BR Cottage. Available the weeks of June 24th-July 1st and August 26-September 2nd. House $2050-per week. Cottage $1850per week. IDEAL FAMILY VACATION. Call 631-298-8433

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

HOMES FOR SALE

FOR SALE BY OWNER GARDEN CITY

52 Maxwell Road Move-In ready 3 bedroom, 2 bath RANCH with great yard. Vaulted Family Room & fireplace.

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$1,159,000 Low Taxes. No Brokers. Call: 516-279-9019 or 516-413-6699

GARDEN CITY ESTATES

HOME FOR SALE

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Screened porch

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NO BROKERS PLEASE Call for details: 516-319-6735

SERVICES

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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

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122

www.dangelolawassociates. com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATEC LAWN SPRINKLERS

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Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates

Installation Service/Repairs

Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES 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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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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SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

Interior, Exterior, Plaster / Spackle, Light Carpentry, Decorative Moldings & Power Washing.

Call: 516-328-7499

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Bartenders Available.

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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.

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

Call 718-850-3400

Once a novelty in select stores, rotisserie chicken is now ubiquitous in supermarkets and other food centers. People are drawn to rotisserie chickens by flavor and convenience. Hot and ready to serve, rotisserie chicken makes for a quick and easy meal when time is of the essence and people don’t want to spend on dining out at a nearby restaurant.

Rotisserie chicken can be served right out of the container just like a traditional roasted chicken. It also can be a component in many different meals. Consider these 10 ideas for putting rotisserie chicken to use.

1. After most of the meat from the chicken is eaten, boil the carcass with sliced onion, parsnips, carrots, turnips, and your preferred herbs to make a soup stock. Add bits of leftover chicken and noodles to have a delicious chicken soup.

2. Purchase premade pie crust and use it to line small ramekins. Mix chopped rotisserie chicken with a can of cream of chicken soup and thawed frozen mixed vegetables. Spoon the mixture on top of the bottom crust, then top with another crust round, poking venting holes in the pastry. Heat up until the crust browns and the filling is piping hot. The result is a delicious chicken pot pie.

3. Rotisserie chicken can be used as the filling for enchiladas, fajitas, and tacos. Simply season with a packet of taco seasoning or make your own

blend from a combination of paprika, chili powder and cumin.

4. Pulse rotisserie chicken meat in a food processor with

celery, dill and a few dollops of mayonnaise or even Greek yogurt or ranch salad dressing. Add some crumbled bacon and serve the chicken salad

between slices of toasted whole wheat bread.

5. Shred the rotisserie chicken and blend together with melted butter and hot sauce to make it Buffalo-style. Use it as a topping for pizza served with a blue-cheese sauce on the crust.

6. Add pieces of rotisserie chicken to omelettes and top with melted cheese for a savory breakfast or brunch option.

7. Rotisserie chicken chunks can be added to any of your favorite casserole recipes in lieu of fresh chicken.

8. Make mac-and-cheese a more substantial meal by mixing in shredded rotisserie chicken.

9. Recreate “chicken bog,” a traditional South Carolina dish made from chicken cooked in broth and rice to make a thick and creamy meal.

10. Create a chicken stirfry with the rotisserie chicken, Asian vegetables and seasonings. Serve over glass rice noodles.

These are just a few of the many different ways to utilize rotisserie chicken in everyday cooking.

Hiking and camping opportunities heat up when the weather warms. Come summer, individuals feel compelled to load up their campers or pack their tents and enjoy some forested paradise.

Sauce

1 cup chili sauce

1⁄3 cup Dijon or grainy mustard

1⁄3 cup liquid honey

2 tablespoons chili powder

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon packed brown sugar

At home: Mix together the chili sauce, mustard, honey, chili powder, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic. Store in a tightly sealed container or freeze for longer storage.

Expand your campsite culinary repertoire

Slow-Cooked

Meals are a consideration when camping. Certainly frankfurters or sandwiches can get you by in a pinch, but for avid campers, it helps to have a more diverse array of recipes at the ready, which can

Pulled Pork

really enhance the camping experience. Consider this recipe “Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork” courtesy of “The New Trailside Cookbook” (A Firefly Book) by Kevin Callan and Margaret Howard.

2 teaspoons paprika

2 large cloves garlic, minced

2 cups sliced onions

3 to 4 pounds frozen pork shoulder roast, thawed after roast

2 cups chopped apples

Large ciabatta rolls, onion or crusty buns, mashed potatoes, or rice

At camp: Place onions in the bottom of a Dutch oven. Thaw pork, place over onions; top with apples. Pour sauce over meat and apples. Cover and cook on medium heat for 4 hours or until meat is tender and starts to fall

apart. Remove meat from oven and place on a large plate. Using two forks, shred meat along its length. Stir meat back into sauce. Serve on rolls, or as desired.

Town pools to open June 24

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that its community pools will open for the season beginning on Saturday, June 24. The Town of Oyster Bay operates five pool facilities, including Bethpage Community Park, Marjorie Post Community Park, Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park, Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, and a saltwater pool at Tappen Beach in Glenwood Landing.

“The warm, sunny days of summer are nearly upon us and all residents may start visiting our pools daily beginning Saturday, June 24th,” Supervisor Saladino said. “Town Pool memberships offer families and senior citizens access to many great

amenities, including upgraded restrooms, pool deck furniture, picnic benches and sunshades.”

Pool hours from Saturday, June 24, through Labor Day, Monday, September 4, will be 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Additionally, extended hours until 8 p.m., will be offered as follows (weather permitting) at the following locations on the following schedule:

• Monday: Syosset-Woodbury

• Tuesday: Plainview-Old Bethpage

• Wednesday: Bethpage

• Thursday: Marjorie R. Post

• Fridays: ALL pools open late

including Tappen

Pool memberships can be obtained at each park location. Memberships are available at community park pools for both park district residents and non-park district residents. Daily admission rates, nanny memberships and group access are also available. In addition to the great new amenities at our facilities, the Town is offering swimming lessons at local pools to residents age five and older. Applications to register for swimming lessons are available on line at oysterbaytown.com/portal, with four swim lesson sessions available to choose from.

The Town will also offer a swim team this summer at outdoor pools located in

Syosset-Woodbury Community Park and Marjorie R. Post Community Park in Massapequa. Town of Oyster Bay residents aged 6 to 16 are eligible to register for the swim program. Practices will be held on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. beginning Wednesday, June 29. Swim meets will be held Saturday mornings and class meets will be held Tuesday afternoons. Schedules will be distributed the first week of practice. For more information, including membership rates, and schedules for swim lessons, please visit www.oysterbaytown. com/pools.

Professional Services Guide

Field Day competitions create camaraderie at Lee Road

The competition was fierce at Lee Road Elementary School in the Levittown Public School District as students across all grades participated in several games for Field Day.

The New York-themed Field Day faced Lee Road elementary schoolers with both fun and creative challenges. Using a carboard boxes fashioned into

cars, separate teams tried to outrun each other in a taxicab relay. They also raced to stack buckets to create a small “city” and collected pizza boxes in a limited amount of time. In the gymnasium, an intricate obstacle course was established that featured a rope swing, climbing, city-scape obstacles and scooters.

Teams raced to stack buckets to create a “city.”

A taxicab relay featured cardboard taxi cars.

Lee Road Elementary School students were divided into teams for the annual Field Day on June 12.

Mrs. Smith’s fourth grade class navigated a city-scape obstacle course in the gymnasium.

Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools

POB seniors welcome summer with barbecue

HHS students named semifinalists in essay competition

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker attended the Plainview-Old Bethpage Seniors Club annual barbecue on June 16.

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) joined his colleagues in government and the more than 100 members of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Seniors Club at the Jamaica Avenue School in Plainview on Friday, June 16, for the Club’s annual barbecue. During the celebration, Legislator Drucker recognized President Carol Kokol for her leadership of the organization as her term draws to a close.

“It’s always a pleasure to welcome the summer and celebrate the conclusion of a wonderful season with the vibrant and engaging mem -

bers of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Seniors Club,” Legislator Drucker said. “Throughout their lives, our seniors have made — and continue to make — tremendous contributions to our society, and we all must do whatever we can to support, advocate for and serve and protect these esteemed community members. Thank you to outgoing President Carol Kokol and her entire team for working so diligently on behalf of everyone who benefits from the programs offered by the Plainview-Old Bethpage Seniors Club!”

Hicksville High School students (left to right) Shreya Jacob and Aanya Rawal were semifinalists in the Japan Center Stony Brook Essay Competition.

Hicksville High School students

Shreya Jacob and Aanya Rawal were recently named semifinalists in the Japan Center Stony Brook (JCSB) Essay Competition sponsored by Canon U.S.A.

The Hicksville students each submitted an essay relating to aspects of Japan that included art, culture, tradition, values, philosophy, history, society, politics, business, and tech -

Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

nology in relation to their personal views, experiences, and/or future goals.

The aim of the JCSB essay competition was to provide young Americans with an opportunity to think creatively and critically about their lives by relating them to some aspect of Japan to help them broaden their horizons and develop global citizenship.

Hicksville Historical Society to meet June 27

The Hicksville Historical Society will hold a general meeting on Tuesday, June 27, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hicksville Public Library.

During the meeting, Denward Collins will present a program

titled: “ World War II and Life at the Homefront in Hicksville, as Witnessed by Denward W. Collins, Jr. ”

Please plan to attend to express gratitude to the war heroes in the

community and to learn how their families supported them.

Admission is free for everyone. Refreshments will be served. Please bring your friends.

The event will take place

Love to write?

at Hicksville Public Library (Community Room), located at 169 Jerusalem Avenue, Hicksville NY 11801.

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

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

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

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words. • Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

Town offers

summer sports programs

The Town of Oyster Bay will offer Summer Athletic Programs for basketball, badminton, and volleyball, beginning on July 6 at the Hicksville Athletic Center. All athletic programs run for 10 weeks, are co-ed, and open to individuals 18 and over.

“The Town’s athletic programs offer a great opportunity for residents to take to the court, improve their skills, and make new friends,” said Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh. “Playing basketball, badminton, and volleyball are the ideal way to have fun while staying active, and I encourage residents to take advantage of these Town programs.”

Basketball will be held on Thursdays from 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturdays from 8:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., and Sundays from 8:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., beginning on July 6, 2023. The basketball program is 10 weeks long and costs $25 for residents and $40 for non-residents.

Badminton will feature two sessions for registrants to choose from. The first session consists of Tuesdays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., Fridays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., and Sundays from 6:10 p.m. to 8:10 p.m.

Session 2 consists of Tuesdays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., Fridays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., and Sundays from 8:20 p.m. to 10:20 p.m. The badminton program is 10 weeks long and costs $75 for residents and $100 for non-residents, with the program scheduled to

Jackson third graders excel in math

begin on July 7.

Volleyball will be split into two different sessions. The first session will be held on Mondays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., Wednesdays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:05 p.m., and Saturdays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The second session will take place on Mondays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., Wednesdays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:35 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:20 p.m. to 10:20 p.m. The volleyball program is 10-weeks long, costs $75 for residents and $100 for non-residents, and is scheduled to begin on July 8.

Registration for Town of Oyster Bay residents begins online on Monday, June 5, at 5 p.m. at oysterbaytown. com/portal. You must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s license. Town residents also have the option to register in person on Wednesday, June 7, from 5:00 p.m. –9:00 p.m. at the TOB Hicksville Athletic Center (167 S Broadway, Hicksville). Non-residents can register online at oysterbaytown.com/portal as of June 12.

Proof of residency is required for the resident discount. The schedule is subject to change. If a session is cancelled, make-up day(s) will be attempted. For more information, or to inquire about special holiday scheduling, please call (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny.gov

Town to upgrade sports fields

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that upgrades are on the way to the baseball field at Haypath Park in Plainview. Crews will replace the natural surface infield, which will be fully converted to a synthetic turf playing area.

“These important upgrades will enhance the overall playing experience for our little leaguers and others who use these fields, which is why the Town Board and I are making field improvements a top priority,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “These upgrades are being achieved in the most cost-effective way while bringing added enjoyment to all who use them.”

Artificial turf fields have a general useful life of up to 10 years, however they are less expensive than the long-

term cost of maintaining natural grass and a dirt surface. Turf fields also provide the potential for fewer cancellations of games due to inclement weather, as the field is able to absorb rain storms in a manner that is not possible on a fully-dirt infield.

“Replacing the infield with synthetic turf allows for extended play time for athletes and brings a significant upgrade to this beautiful park,” said Councilman Steve Labriola. “We are pleased to bring these enhancements to the Plainview community while keeping a watchful eye on our bottom line.”

For more information about Town parks, including local programs and events, visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/parks.

Congratulations to (left to right) Matthew Huang, Andrew Li, and Eugene Wong.

The New York State Department of Education and First in Math Program recently joined forces to bring a statewide elementary mathematics tournament to New York State.

Congratulations to three third graders from George A. Jackson Elementary School who received second place: Eugene Wong, Andrew Li, and Matthew Huang. The First in Math Statewide

Elementary Mathematics Tournament consisted of a Virtual Regional Contest (Qualifying Round) and an in-person statewide championship event. At the state championship event on May 20, students used game cards competitively in a group setting to demonstrate through modeling their conceptual understanding. This took place at the University of Albany.

Registration open for Town ice hockey program

Registration for the Town of Oyster Bay’s Summer Youth Ice Hockey Program is still underway and open to boys and girls ages 8U–16U. The 10-week program includes instructional technique work and features a unique “Pond Hockey” format. Clinics spanning 10 weeks in duration will also be available for registration, including all girls’ clinics, 6U clinics, adult learn to play clinics and advanced travel clinics. Programs will begin on July 9, 2023.

“The fun and instructional Summer Hockey Program will help youngsters learn the correct fundamentals of ice

hockey at our state-of-the-art ice rink at Bethpage Community Park,” said Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Lou Imbroto. “Instructors will teach proper techniques of skating, stickhandling and shooting during the 10-week program.”

Registration is available online at www.oysterbaytown.com/portal. All participants must provide their own equipment, and should have some skating ability. For more information, call the rink at (516) 433-7465, x 8234 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/hockey.

See what's happening at your library!

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