Syosset Advance (7/28/23)

Town unveils field upgrades at Robbins Lane Park

Syosset

BoE seeks traffic solution at HS entrance

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Syosset Central School District Board of Education meeting held on July 6, former Board President Tom Rotolo spoke about the district possibly approaching Town officials about a traffic light for the area on South Woods Road, in front of Syosset High School.

Safety of students at the entry to the campus has been a chief concern since spring. Nassau County recently installed a traffic signal at the intersection of Cold Spring Road and South Woods Road, and Syosset CSD provided input that it was in favor of the new traffic light.

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino on one of the refurbished athletic fields at Robbins Lane Community Park in Jericho.

The Town of Oyster Bay recently unveiled new athletic field upgrades at Robbins Lane Community Park in Jericho. As part of park improvements throughout the Town, the full artificial turf field was replaced at this facility, which includes setup for soccer and lacrosse for various age groups.

“These important upgrades will enhance the playing experience and overall safety for young athletes

and others who use these fields, which is why the Town Board and I have been making field improvements a top priority throughout all communities,” 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.

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

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Rogers told the Board of Education he believes that the new traffic light “was in the works before I expressed our school district’s enthusiasm for the idea.”

To the disappointment of board members, he also announced that

the intersection for the entrance of Syosset High School (South Woods Road) does not qualify for a traffic signal, due to reasons and MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) metrics he could not easily explain.

“I had conversations with the Town of Oyster Bay and Nassau County officials about the traffic congestion on South Woods Road, particularly at the exit of the high school property. We have seen accidents occur there, typically minor fender-benders but there was one serious accident there too. I’ve expressed the feeling that this intersection (outside of SHS) would be better served, especially during our school arrival and dismissal phases, by having a traffic light installed on South Woods Road. That would help motorists trying to make the left-hand turn from SHS,” he told the board.

Dr. Rogers said the intersection

See page 9

Town, art experience partner to help the hungry

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced a partnership with Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience at Samanea New York (located at 1500 Old Country Road, Westbury) to help Long Island Cares combat food insecurity during the summer now through August 6. Residents who pur-

chase a ticket and donate at least two non-perishable food items will receive one complimentary admission per ticket holder to the immersive event as a thank-you for their contribution toward ending hunger. Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, proSee page 9

Hicksville - Jericho Rotary to host retired NYPD asst. commissioner

The Rotary Club of HicksvilleJericho will hear a talk by retired NYPD Assistant Commissioner Kevin O'Connor at its meeting on Thursday, August 3.

Asst. Comm. O’Connor will speak about “ Raise the Age ” legislation which is designed to address unfair punishment of youths as adults, especially those who commit non-violent crimes.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, August 3, at Frank’s Steak, 4 Jericho Tpke., Jericho NY 11753 from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m.

(Attendees will be responsible for their food and drinks. Please RSVP by August 1 at drd45@optonline.net or 516-532-4566.)

Jericho School Dist. seeks breakfast exemption

State law mandates school districts to implement a breakfast program for students in “severe need” elementary schools, “severe need” schools and all elementary schools (grades K–6) that participated in the National School Lunch Program.

Based on a survey of Jericho School District sent to parents of children currently enrolled in K–5 in the Cantiague, Seaman, and Jackson Elementary Schools, the district is requesting an

Days Inn altercation

A Uniondale man was arrested at the Days Inn in Hicksville for allegedly choking his girlfriend during an altercation on Saturday, July 15.

According to police, a female victim, 34, had a verbal dispute with her boyfriend that escalated and became physical at the Days Inn located at 828 South Oyster Bay Road.

Police say Damar Collins, 36, grabbed the victim around her neck and obstructed her breathing while she was holding their 1-year-old son. They say Collins fled the scene and the victim notified police on Monday, July 17.

Officers escorted the victim to the location of the incident on Tuesday, July 18, for her safety. According to police, upon arrival, Damar Collins was present at the location and officers attempted to place him into custody. They say officers sustained injuries during the course of the arrest as the Collins was violent and combative while resisting arrest.

exemption from the breakfast program for these schools for the 2023–24 school year. The results of the survey indicate that more than 80 percent of those responding would not use the program.

If any parents have questions or concerns regarding the request for the one-year exemption, please contact Mr. Victor P. Manuel, assistant superintendent for business, 203-3600 extension 3214, Deana Michielini, director of food service, extension 3258.

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

Police also said that Collins was found to be in possession of a metal pipe containing a white powdery sub-

Plainview home burglarized

A Plainview home was burglarized on Saturday, July 22, at 10:30 a.m.

According to Nassau County Police, an unknown suspect entered a residential home located on Edgewood Gate through a rear window. He removed an assortment of yen and euro currency totaling $500 and left the scene on foot through the backyard towards Gilbert Lane. The investigation is ongoing.

The suspect is described as a light skin male, 5’10” tall, wearing a white hat, gray sweatshirt, dark pants and white sneakers.

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

stance believed to be cocaine. Damar Collins is charged with two counts of Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th Degree, Resisting Arrest and Assault in the 2nd Degree.

Bethpage School Board meetings

The Bethpage Board of Education has scheduled the following meetings for the month of August:

Agenda Meeting - Tuesday, August 8, at 7:30 p.m.

Administration Building District Conference Room

Regular Meeting - Tuesday, August 29, at 7:30 p.m.

Administration Building District Conference Room

Retired NYPD Assistant Commissioner Kevin O’Connor.

Damar Collins

Security camera photo of burglar in Edgewood Gate home.

Old Bethpage resident honored by Town for cancer initiatives

BY GARY SIMEONE

Ten years ago, Jennifer Biren, a resident of Old Bethpage, noticed there wasn’t a lot of support or funding for the Plainview-Old Bethpage Relay for Life initiative. The initiative which partners with the American Cancer Society, helps communities fight cancer through donations, fundraisers and other activities.

“I saw at the time that there wasn’t a lot of support and that made me upset enough that I wanted to take over the event,” said Biren.

She ended up becoming the Volunteer Event Chair for the Relay for Life, and has helped it to become one of the more profitable endeavors for the American Cancer Society.

“Through the years we’ve done different fundraisers for the schools and gotten the community involved on multiple levels through various initiatives. The first year I took over we raised $80,000 for cancer research and haven’t gone under $60,000 any year since.”

Biren, like many other people, has been effected by cancer on a personal level. Her father passed away from the

disease several years ago and her mom was recently diagnosed with kidney cancer.

“The disease has definitely hit me close to home and the more we have money for research and cancer-fighting treatments, the quicker we’ll be able to eradicate this terrible disease,” said Biren.

The 49 year-old Biren was recognized by the Town of Oyster Bay Board on July 18th, for her charitable efforts on behalf of Relay for Life, as well as for her remarkable community service work.

Oyster Bay Supervisor, Joseph Saladino, presented her with a citation and offered kind words for her charitable efforts in the community.

“Along with her team, Jennifer helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society and has spearheaded several creative cancer-related fundraising initiatives,” said Saladino. “She is constantly looking for ways to volunteer her time to help those in need every single day to make a true difference. She is an incredible woman who does amazing work in our community.”

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Jennifer Biren of Old Bethpage and her team at the Relay for Life.

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Thursday, July 27, 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 readalike? Looking for your next book club choice? Use #AskALibrarian in your tweet.

Thursday, July 27, at 2:00 p.m.

Katharine Hepburn (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Marc Courtade, retired arts director

Katharine Hepburn was a leading lady in Hollywood for more than 60 years. She came from a well-off family in Connecticut that was involved with social causes like women’s suffrage and birth control. Educated at Bryn Mawr, Hepburn began her acting career on Broadway, then went from new star to box office poison during the 1930s. She returned to Broadway for “The Philadelphia Story” and had a successful return back to Hollywood. She is the only person to win four competitive acting Oscars. No registration needed.

Monday, July 31, at 1:00 p.m.

Beaded Bangle Bracelet (IN-PERSON)

Presenter: Kelly Schulte-Smith

Explore jewelry making and create a beautiful beaded bangle bracelet. You will be using wire and gemstone beads to design a lovely piece of wearable art. Beginners are welcome. All materials are provided. Registration needed. Fee: $5 To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Tuesday, August 1, at 2:00 p.m.

Title Swap Tuesdays (IN-PERSON)

Excited to hear about our favorite books? Join the Readers’ Services librarians for a fun, lively in-person presentation of all the books we can’t stop talking about. Leave with a list of

great reads. No registration needed.

Thursday, August 3, 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, August 3, at 2:00 p.m.

The Lion King: The Circle of Disney Animation (HYBRID)

Presenter: John Kenrick, entertainment historian

What led to Disney creating an animated animal musical loosely based on Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”? And how did that musical prove to be even more popular when adapted for the stage and then to a second record-smashing computer animated big screen remake? The lecturer shares the story behind the “Circle of Life” of this beloved musical. No registration needed for in-person or Zoom. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Thursday, August 3, at 7:00 p.m. Writing Workshop: Getting Your Novel Industry Ready (VIRTUAL)

Presenter: Erin Coughlin, award nominated writer and producer, and author of “Pop and Fizz’s Double Feature Movie Night Guide”

Learn how to confidently prepare and create a professional looking submission package that you can send to agents and editors! Registration needed. To register, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Friday, August 4, at 2:00 p.m. Friday Movie at the Library (IN-PERSON)

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

Blood drive supports 2 local boys battling cancers

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino (center) with Vinny and Jordan, two young friends who are battling childhood cancer. Vinny (front row, center left) is shown with his family and Schwarting Principal Jennifer Thearle. Jordan (front row, center right) is shown with his family.

The Town of Oyster Bay recently supported a community blood drive hosted by the New York Blood Center in honor of two brave, young boys battling childhood cancer. The friends, Vinny and Jordan of Massapequa, approached the New York Blood Center to coordinate this drive as a way of supporting of other children

battling the disease.

The children are schoolmates at Schwarting Elementary School in Plainedge. Vinny is 11-years-old and was diagnosed with a rare tumor in his kidney. He completed 31 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, and has needed close to 30 blood and platelet transfusions. Jordan is 10-years-old

and was diagnosed with Leukemia. He will receive 2 ½ years of intensive chemotherapy treatment.

“Jordan and Vinny are brave young men that despite their own health concerns, are putting others first by hosting this blood drive and collecting 175 pints of blood for cancer patients like themselves,” said

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Just one pint of blood can help save three lives. This means over 500 cancer patients are going to receive the gift of life from this incredible drive alone.”

To help further support the cause, please visit www.vinnysarmy.com.

Hazardous material, homeowners’ cleanup days

The Town of Oyster Bay’s S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) and Homeowners Cleanup Days for the summer months have been scheduled on weekends in July and August. Residents can drop off materials at the Old Bethpage Solid Waste Disposal Complex, located at 101 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road in Old Bethpage.

S.T.O.P. Program - Saturday, August 12, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Collects various hazardous materials, including: asbestos material (double bagged); automobile batteries; automobile tires (with or without rims); brake and transmission fluids; drain and oven cleaners; fire extinguishers; fares; fluorescent bulbs; gasoline; pesticides and

insecticides; oil-based and latex paint; outdoor gas grill propane tanks; photo chemicals; rechargeable and button batteries; small aerosol cans; smoke detectors; solvents; spot removers; thermostats; waste motor oil and antifreeze; and wood preservatives.

“Improperly disposing of products such as waste oil, oven cleaner or paint thinner could contaminate your water supply,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Anything poured on the ground or put into cesspools, storm drains, or recharge systems can work its way down to the aquifer or our waterways.”

Homeowners Cleanup Day sSaturday, August 19, from 8:30 a.m. –

4 p.m.: Collects non-hazardous waste only, including: air conditioners; all e-waste; campers; boats and boat trailers (proof of ownership required - oil, gas, other fluids and batteries removed); clean, broken concrete; large metal items; propane tanks and propane torches; tires; and yard waste.

“Many of our residents take the opportunity to clean out their yards in the summer months and may have large amounts of non-hazardous debris to dispose,” said Town Councilman Tom Hand. “Residents can bring items such as used tires, fence posts, clean broken concrete or yard waste to our Homeowners Cleanup.”

Free Paper Shredding Services -

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA?

Saturday, August 19, from 8:30 a.m. –4 p.m.: Provides residents an opportunity to destroy unwanted documents in a safe and secure manner. Residents only, no businesses, can bring up to four bankers’ boxes of paper to the shredding program.

The Town’s S.T.O.P. and Homeowners programs are open to residents within the Town’s Solid Waste Disposal District. Proof of residency is required. For more information, including a full list of what is accepted at these programs, visit www. oysterbaytown.com/cleanup or call (516) 677-5848.

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!

Town Clerk Rich LaMarca supported the blood drive.

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LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Town of Oyster Bay   Zoning Board of Appeals

TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK  11771-1592

TELEPHONE:  (516) 624-6232 – FAX:  (516) 624-6149

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

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

PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on AUGUST 3, 2023, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 23-296 SYOSSET

BLS BELL BOYS LLC:  (A) Variance for the reduction of off-street parking spaces.  Reduction of spaces to 5 when 12 parking spaces are required.  (B) Variance to allow existing building having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.  (C) Variance to allow existing addition to building having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.  (D) Variance to allow existing air conditioning unit having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.

W/s/o Jackson Ave., 40 ft. N/o Willis Ave., a/k/a 116 Jackson Avenue, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-336 SYOSSET

HYUNCHUL R. YOO:  (A) Variance for expansion of a home business exceeding maximum gross floor area of dwelling unit and nonresident employees than permitted by Ordinance.  (B) Amend Specific Plan as presented for Appeal No. 09-458 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated November 19, 2009.

W/s/o Jackson Ave., 150 ft. N/o Albert Ave., a/k/a 240 Jackson Avenue, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-339 SYOSSET

HYUNCHUL R. YOO:  (A) Variance to install 3 ft. by 2.6 ft. non-illuminated ground sign on East side of lot having less front yard setback, exceeding maximum sign area and maximum number of ground signs than permitted by Ordinance.  (B) Variance to erect 6 ft. by 3 ft. wall sign exceeding maximum sign area than permitted by Ordinance

W/s/o Jackson Ave., 150 ft. N/o Albert Ave., a/k/a 240 Jackson Avenue, Syosset, NY

JULY 24, 2023

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library

Saturday, July 29

12:00 p.m.: TEENS : Natural Indigo Tie Dye

T-Shirt Workshop - Create a beautiful, tie-dye t-shirt with natural indigo dye! You will learn about the indigo plant, as well as the difference between natural and synthetic indigo.

Wednesday, August 2

7:00 p.m.: (IN-PERSON) Have You Ever Seen an Aura? with Domenick Melillo

- An aura is referred to as the unseen spiritual energy field that surrounds all living things. The different colors of your aura are said to provide insight into your emotional and spiritual well-being. Knowing the color(s) of yours will help you understand who you are. Areas of your body hold different types of energy represented by the colors of the rainbow. Learn what the different colors mean and ways to

enhance the weaker fields. In this presentation we will take an intimate look at the energy field that surrounds you and discuss how it can be used to learn and possibly change who you are. Domenick will also discuss techniques to view and change your energy.

Thursday, August 3

1:00 p.m.: (HYBRID) The Passionate Reader with Mary Hirdt: “Mad Honey” by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan - A soul-stirring novel and unforgettable love story about what we choose to keep from our past and what we choose to leave behind in order to become ourselves. Listeners are welcome!

7:00 p.m.: Reader ’ s Theater (Grades 3–5) - Share stories and stimulate your imagination while bringing characters to life through your voice and gestures.

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Syosset BoE seeks traffic solution at HS entrance

From page 1

has seen two accidents that involved Syosset CSD buses – one was not serious for the district’s bus but for the other vehicles in the crash. The second accident was more serious for the district, but fortunately no one was injured in these accidents.

The district went so far in its considerations to have traffic engineering consultants H2M Architects + Engineers of Melville perform a traffic study of the intersection.

“The accidents point to the fact that it is a dangerous intersection and people tend to approach it while driving at a high speed – particularly on Cold Spring Road. Having a traffic device there would make it a much safer intersection for everyone, not just school district vehicles but everyone who uses that intersection. BUT I do not believe our traffic study was persuasive enough to make the case for a traffic light there,” he said.

School Board Trustee Jack Ostrick asked what metrics are in play for the Town of Oyster Bay to allow for a traffic light on Cold Spring Road and South Woods Road.

“Is there anything we can learn from that scenario to use to have a light installed where we want it?” he asked.

Dr. Rogers noted that he’s learned some aspects in the process of lobbying

for a new signal in front of SHS. He presumes that the Cold Spring Road/South Woods Road intersection meets the criteria to have a traffic light installed.

“To do it there is a series of criteria that has to be met in order to get what’s called a warrant. To earn that warrant, there are things about traffic volume, the number of accidents at the location and a particular series of steps to check off and go through,” he said.

Board Trustee Ostrick said a next step might be suggesting signage for vehicles to slow down, or a speed hump and even having a crossing guard present, rather than proceed the uphill battle to get a traffic light installed outside of SHS.

“There must be something else within the County’s control that if we can’t make a traffic light, maybe we can make the next level II step,” he said.

Dr. Rogers noted that the district offered the idea of an operable STOP sign which folds in half and only works for a part of the day, as needed. Syosset CSD told Nassau County they could have district employees open and close the sign at the right times, arrival and dismissal phases at SHS.

“Their worry about that is apparently it would confuse drivers, as some days you are able to speed through and on other days you must stop there. They feel this would contribute to more accidents and not less,” he noted.

Another idea the district proposed for the intersection was a light flashing yellow for one direction of traffic and red for the other, then alternating. Dr. Rogers says to date, the proposals have been rejected again and again.

“The district would be willing to staff the intersection with a crossing guard, or even somebody just to direct traffic, and it’s a great suggestion. But Nassau County law states that only County employees can stand in the street and we cannot. My impression is that they recognize the shortage of crossing guards in Nassau County, and adding one to a high school property would come up as a low priority compared with staffing crossing guards at elementary school properties. I do not fault any agency and I don’t feel we’re being dismissed but I feel we have not found exactly the right way to make our case yet,” Rogers said.

Ostrick asked if Syosset CSD has done more than speak with Nassau County DPW and if county legislators including former Syosset board of education trustee and alumnus Josh Lafazan has been approached, “potentially as a lobbying effort on our behalf.”

Dr. Rogers said Syosset CSD has engaged with both Nassau County Legislators Arnold Drucker and Josh Lafazan. He has also brought this issue to the attention of Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, who

referred the matter to professionals in the Town administration and TOBAY Highway Department.

Dr. Rogers reports “productive and cordial” conversations about the need for a traffic light outside of SHS with the Highway Department and other Town offices.

During the school year Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh joined Superintendent Rogers at the curb for the entrance to Syosset High School, to observe the dismissal phase and traffic at that time of day.

“She came to get a sense of it herself, and Mrs. Walsh and Mr. Lafazan also invited members of the Nassau County PD 2nd Precinct who are assigned to schools. They also stood at this intersection and watched the dismissal phase with me. They came another day to watch the arrival phase too,” Dr. Rogers said.

He summarized the conundrum Syosset CSD is currently in for adding a key safety improvement.

“I think the Town and Nassau County adhere closely to their procedures, and we are not at a level where we’ve triggered their procedures yet. We will continue to revisit proposing a light in front of the high school and expressing our thoughts about this,” Dr. Rogers noted.

Town, art experience partner to help the hungry

From page 1

duced by Paquin Entertainment Group, features more than 300 of Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic artworks and takes the art lover into a three-dimensional world.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with Long Island Cares throughout the year, and we thank Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience for their good corporate citizenship and

willingness to give back to Long Island. Residents can enjoy the iconic artwork of Vincent Van Gogh while displaying generosity and helping children who may not have access to school meals during the summer break.”

“We’re very excited to partner with ‘Beyond Van Gogh’ and the Town of Oyster Bay to raise awareness of food insecurity on Long Island, which impacts 221,000 people, including 65,000 children,” said Paule Pachter, president

& CEO of Long Island Cares, Inc. - The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank.

“Long Island has warmly welcomed Beyond Van Gogh its their community since we opened in March, and we are proud to team up with Long Island Cares and the Town of Oyster Bay to give back,” said Justin Paquin, president, Paquin Exhibitions & Theatrical, Division Of Paquin Entertainment Group. “

To donate to Long Island Cares,

ensure that all nonperishable items are unexpired and unopened. Acceptable donations include canned soups, tuna, vegetables, fruit, pasta packages, crackers, juice boxes, bottled water, juice bottles, cereals, and granola bars. A minimum donation of two nonperishable items is required to qualify for the promotion. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.vangoghlongisland.com.

July

Who could have imagined such an immersive experience into British Columbia’s indigenous culture revival in the heart of a bustling, modern metropolis like Vancouver?

I come to Vancouver intent to see how indigenous heritage culture is being resurrected, revived, and coming to the forefront of national consciousness and respect.

My trip is very much a voyage of discovery, in so many ways so surprising, illuminating and enriching, especially once I am sensitized to look.

My itinerary is arranged by Indigenous Tourism BC, one of Canada’s oldest (at 25 years) provincial entities to promote the economic and social benefits tourism brings to revive and sustain a heritage that had been relegated to shadows.

These efforts have accelerated after Canada signed its historic Truth and Reconciliation Act, in 2014, acknowledging the harm of 140 federally run residential schools that operated from 1867 up until 1996, and other laws, like the Indian Act, banning the practice of indigenous culture that amounted to cultural genocide.

It was only in 1951 that amendments to the Indian Act removed restrictions on rituals, customs and culture. Canada’s indigenous peoples – who account for five percent of the population - could not vote until the 1960s.

Skwachays Lodge, Canada’s First Aboriginal Art Hotel

My voyage of discovery starts as soon as I check in to my hotel,

A famous Bill Reid work, “Raven and First Men” that depicts the Haida creation myth, in white onyx is on view at the Bill Reid Gallery © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

Skwachays Lodge, the nearest thing to staying in a First Nations community you might find in a major modern city.

Skwachays Lodge, Canada’s first aboriginal art hotel, opened in 2012 as a social enterprise that turned a derelict building into a boutique hotel combined with an artist-in-residence program supporting indigenous artists with housing and studio space.

Even though it is late, Rick, the night manager, is eager to show me around to the art studios and introduces me to two of the 24 artists in residence who live for up to three-years in apartments on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors. The hotel also has a gallery and a superb shop.

The 18 guest rooms and suites, which occupy the 5th and 6th floors, have been individually designed by six indigenous artists – there is the Water

Room (502), the Sea Kingdom Suite, Northern Lights Room, Forest Spirits Room, Earth Room, King Salmon Suite.

Mine is the Moon Room (505), designed by Sabina Hill and Mark Preston, equipped with a kitchenette, desk/workspace, and a giant round bed on a platform. The ceiling is decorated with the moon’s radiance in gold, and the wall, in gold calligraphy, tells the legend of the trickster god Raven who stole the sun, the moon and the stars and released them into the sky. “Delivered to its heavenly perch by the daring Raven, the Golden Moon watches over the world below.” It’s almost like finding yourself in a painting, in the story.

The hotel also offers opportunities to do a Sweat Lodge ceremony in the rooftop garden; a Smudging Ceremony

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

in the traditional Smudge Room; as well as studio visits with the artists in residence. Its Kayachtn (“Welcome”) room, where breakfast is served, also provides a traditional community gathering place, as well as a gallery.

Atop the hotel is a totem, a marvelous counterpoint to the arch that marks the entrance to Vancouver’s Chinatown, a half-block away.

Skwàchays Lodge 31 W Pender St Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3 604.687.3589, 1 888 998 0797, info@skwachays.com, https://skwachays.com/.

Bill Reid Gallery

My first morning, after a marvelous breakfast (served 8-10 am in the Kayachtn “Welcome” room), I walk over to the Bill Reid Gallery, which is just around a corner from the Vancouver Art Gallery and the historic, grand Fairmont Hotel.

The Bill Reid Gallery opened in 2008 to celebrate Haida cultural heritage, diverse living artists of the Northwest Coast, and the life and work of master artist Bill Reid (1920-1998). Reid arguably was responsible for bringing indigenous art from the shadows (after having been suppressed for 150 years) into the national consciousness, awareness and respect.

Bill Reid, I learn, is a national treasure. Two of Reid’s most popular works depict a canoe filled with human and animal figures: one black, “The Spirit of Haida Gwaii,” is at the Canadian Embassy, Washington, D.C.; and one green, “The Jade Canoe,” is at Vancouver International Airport (and was featured on the Canadian $20 bill).

1 Friday, July 28, 2023 Discovery

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

On the Trail to Discover Vancouver’s Revived Indigenous Heritage

Continued from previous page

works, including “Mythic Messengers” (1984), a multi-ton, 8.5 meter long frieze referencing folk stories that is the gallery’s piece de resistance

There is an artist’s proof in white onyx of another famous work, “Raven and First Men” that depicts the Haida creation myth – how the Raven discovers a massive clamshell on the beach with humans protruding from it and coaxes the humans out, unleashing civilization. (The full-sized, cedar wood version is at the  Museum of Anthropology on the University of British Columbia campus; Reid depicted this myth in many forms and sizes throughout his career.)

Bill Reid, probably more than anyone, is responsible for resurrecting indigenous art, raising awareness, appreciation and respect, and bringing this heritage that had so long been subject to cultural genocide, into Canada’s cultural mainstream. His story is remarkable and I soon come to appreciate why he was uniquely able to achieve this.

As I look at a miniature (I mean really tiny) tea set that Reid carved from chalk in 1932 when he was 12, my guide, Wayne Louie, explains that Reid’s father was of German-Scottish descent and his mother was born to the Haida nation. She was part of the residential school system which took First Nations children from their families and put them in prison-like boarding schools designed to “kill the Indian inside the man” (as I learned at the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum in Banff).

“His mother didn’t reveal her ancestral roots – that was the effect of residential schools, aimed to culturally cleanse the indigenous side,” Louie tells me. “He didn’t discover his ancestral roots until

BY MARY HUNT

his teens.”

He began exploring his Haida roots at the age of 23. He visited grandparents and slowly and deliberately rediscovered and incorporated his heritage into his art. This journey of discovery lasted a lifetime and shaped Reid’s artistic career.

Reid became a pivotal force in building bridges between Indigenous people and other peoples. Through his mother, he was a member of the Raven clan from T’aanuu with the wolf as one of his family crests. In 1986, Reid was presented with the Haida name Yaahl Sgwansung, meaning The Only Raven. Many of his works incorporate the raven.

“Reid’s quest for understanding the essence and the roots of a unique art form led him to discover his own ‘Haidaness’ and, in the process, restored much of the dynamic power, magic, and possibility to the art. In doing so he became the catalyst to empower a whole Nation,” the gallery notes say.

Reid’s story also shows how an artistic spirit cannot be suppressed. Even later in his life, when he contracted Parkinson’s, he created wire sculptures, some of which are on view – art is irrepressible, it must be expressed.

“Somewhere along the line, I developed a unique art: blackboard chalk carving,” he reflected in 1982. “I started it in school because I was very bored. Round chalk was such a fine medium that I made little tea sets, cup and saucers, and finished them with nail polish...It showed me I could do fine work. The first totem pole I ever made was out of blackboard chalk.”

But the reason he was able to spur a renaissance in indigenous art is that Reid had become a popular CBC announcer with a national audience. He got his first job in radio in 1939 and became a radio broadcaster for the CBC in Toronto

in 1948. As a CBC announcer he had a platform, was known and accepted, and connected to more people. I imagine promoting his indigenous identity was almost like “coming out.”

His interest in making art had already been ignited. In 1943, he made his first visit to the Haida Gaiia since his early childhood. “He was a goldsmith at heart and hoped to build a career focused on modernist jewelry,” the notes say. “He was fascinated by the simple engravings his grandfather made and bracelets by John Cross his aunts wore. When he later saw the deeply carved bracelets by his great, great uncle Charles Edenshaw, he said, ‘Life was not the same after that’.”

He set up a studio in his basement, and then on Granville Island (which I later come upon almost by accident). He combined traditional Haida forms and figures with contemporary innovations, notably the European technique of repousse –pushing the metal out from behind, to bring a three-dimensional quality to his Haida-inspired work.

“Well, I don’t consider myself Haida or non-Haida or white or non-white,” Reid wrote. “I am a citizen of the West Coast of North America and I have availed myself of all the inheritance I got from all directions.”

Bill Reid infused Haida traditions with his own modernist aesthetic to create both exquisite small as well as monumental works that captured the public’s imagination.

“Reid was biracial,” Louie tells me. “He had to learn who he was – observe art of his ancestors, reinterpreted into his art. He started with jewelry, small pieces, then large, monumental works.”

Reid was in the vanguard of the revival of indigenous art, Louie tells me. “During the time these pieces created no

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

other indigenous artist was doing this –now there are many.”

Throughout Reid’s life, he encouraged young artists as he was encouraged, and that is reflected in this gallery, which features exhibits of a dozen contemporary artists.

The centerpiece of the gallery is a fullscale totem pole carved by James Hart of Haida Gwaii, featuring the Wasgo (Haida Sea-Wolf).

What strikes me as interesting is how some of the artists seem intent on reproducing the traditional symbols and techniques (like weaving), while others veer off into modern forms, like graffiti. But when you think about it, for these First Nations artists who live on lands that were never officially ceded to Canada (there was never a treaty so technically, according to Canadian law, the land is illegally occupied), the essence of street art is a form of rebellion, a means for people who feel displaced and disempowered to mark territory and establish identity, so it seems like a very appropriate form.

Monthly workshops, artist talks; guided tours are offered June-August. There is an excellent shop. Summer hours, open daily 10-5.

Bill Reid Gallery, 639 Hornby St, Vancouver 604-682-3455, https://www.billreidgallery.ca/, info@billreidgallery.ca

Indigenous Tourism BC offers travel ideas, things to do, places to go, places to stay, and suggested itineraries and a trip planning app (https://www.indigenousbc. com/)

Next: Walking, Dining in Vancouver’s Indigenous Culture

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

College Students, Have I Got a Plan for You!

All around the country, newly minted high school graduates will soon be heading off to college. They’ll be taking a lot of things with them, but statistics tell us that financial literacy is not likely to be one of them. If I could spend a little time with these awesome students, I’d attempt to cram the basics of money management into their heads and then pray that they penetrate their hearts.

A budget is your friend. That means

1. You have a written plan for how you are going to spend and manage money.

2. You use that written plan like you would a road map, consulting it often.

3. You use a site like Mint.com or

a pencil and paper to record how you spend every nickel.

Sallie Mae has a monthly budget worksheet you can print out to help you estimate your costs and keep expenses under control.

LIVE WITH CASH

I don’t have the time or space to get into a long dissertation on the subject. Just believe me when I tell you that using cash -- currency, greenbacks, dollars, coins -- will simplify your life and keep you from overspending.

GET A FREE CHECKING ACCOUNT

These days, it’s not easy to find free checking accounts with no strings attached -- no monthly fee, no minimum balance requirement and no minimum deposit. But many banks, such as U.S.

Bank, offer free student accounts that fit these criteria.

CREDIT CARD DEBT

Don’t be ridiculous. Credit card debt -- a balance owed that you roll over from one month to the next, paying only the minimum required plus interest -- has the potential to sink your ship. Think of it like cancer. At first, it’s just a tiny thing that’s not that big of a deal. But then it starts to multiply, and if not dealt with swiftly, it will do horrible things in your life.

Never use a credit card to pay for things because you don’t have enough money. If you don’t have the money this month, what makes you think you’ll have it next month? Any amount of credit card debt will put you on the fast track to financial trouble.

When you do use a credit card, make

sure you pay the statement balance in full -- right down to zero dollars every

Continued on next page

Crossword Answers

Random Thoughts on Baseball

BY LOU THEODORE

Here we go again with another “random” article. This one is strictly devoted to baseball thoughts. I hope you find the following twenty-five comments interesting.

1. DeGrom may have been the greatest pitcher of all time the two previous years. He hardly ever had a start where he was working with a comfortable lead.

2. I predicted DeGrom would flop this year (2023).

3. Why didn’t batters go the other way when the “shift” was on in previous years.

4. Naturally, I bet on the Mets; as is usual, my Met bet almost certainly is doomed. They really are an overrated team but here’s hoping I’m wrong.

5. When will pitchers learn that the key to success is not to walk anyone.

6. Scherzer will flop this year (2023). Why? He’s one year older, more subject to injuries, and another ridiculously high-priced acquisition.

7. Verlander will also flop this year for the same reasons in item 6. For me, the word dumb doesn’t do justice to the word describing the Met owner and management team.

8. My key bet this year (before the start of the season) was the Baltimore Orioles and Cincinnati Reds. Boy, am I looking good.

9. Any pitcher who goes head-hunting (ala Roger Clements) should not only be barred from baseball (and the Hall of Fame I might add), but also arrested.

10. These overpriced aging stars are nearly all overrated. I know this is a baseball article but look for the Jets (who I root for) with Rodgers to disappoint.

11. I find the new timing rules to be bothersome.

12. My favorite pitcher of all time was Sal Maglie. He was a terrific pitcher with great control.

13. I have the key for a youngster to become an immensely successful major league pitcher: just put the ball over the plate and don’t walk anyone.

14. Why can’t they have replays on balls and strikes? Moreso, why not replace the home plate umpire with a video-replay camera?

15. There are simply too many batters getting hit. I suggest that following a hit batsman, the next batter should also be given first base. If the same pitcher hits another batter, both he and the next batter should be given 2 bases. If a 3rd batter is hit by the same pitcher, add ejection and a 1-month suspension for the pitcher.

16. Gloves for all fielders (not including the catcher) should be of a much smaller size.

17. How about scheduling weekend doubleheaders now that it is a faster game? This would result in a later start to the season and an earlier end, providing some cold weather relief.

18. There should be an age limit on a player batting – perhaps 40 or 42.

19. Here’s the scenario: It’s the ninth inning and your team is leading by two or more runs. Your pitcher walks a batter. If I’m the manager, I’d walk to the mound, replace my pitcher, and ship him down to the minors. The same applies if it’s the 8th inning.

20. Here’s another scenario: A batter doesn’t run out a ground ball or a fly ball at top speed. If I’m the manager, the player would be informed that he is being shipped to the minors.

21. I believe that pitchers don’t perform as well after the second go-around because they are tired. That’s why it is especially important for pitchers to be in great shape. Remember that the mound is approximately a foot above the playing field; this means that after 6 innings, the pitcher has walked up approximately 15 flights of stairs.

22. The playoffs do not provide sufficient advantages to those teams that outperform other teams during the season.

23. I guess it’s age, but I no longer have any interest in going to a ballpark or arena. None.

24 Is there anything more boring than sandlot baseball?

25. There should be some entertainment during an extended 7th inning stretch – either live or on the big screen. Baseball also needs some simple form of entertainment between innings.

I just came up with three more.

1. I love the Met announcers but have had it with their historical / statistical data. Who gives a damn what happened in 1937? Or this is only the 4th time this has happened in the past 19 years? Give it up!

2. Here’s the scenario: It’s the start of the 9th inning and you are losing by five runs. Your batter is swinging for the fences instead of trying to get on. If I’m the manager, he’s headed to the minors and a seminar to improve his intelligence.

3. Visited the baseball’s Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. It was a bit of a disappointment and very difficult to get to.

Any thoughts on your part?

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

College Students, Have I Got a Plan for You!

single month, without fail.

CREDIT LIMIT

It’s super easy to see your credit limit on your credit card statement as your money -- like it’s there and it’s yours to spend. It’s not your money. It’s the bank’s money that it cannot wait to lend to you at a ridiculously high interest rate.

EAT YOUR FOOD PLAN

If you or your parents have paid for the school meal plan, you need to know how many meals are covered and then do something remarkable: actually eat those meals.

If you’re eating pizza in your dorm room or driving through Burger King instead, you’re just throwing away money. It might feel cool to spend your money like that now, but you will regret it later.

DON’T BECOME A STARBUCKS REGULAR

I want to say never, but I’ll compromise a bit on this one. Seriously, the cof-

fee at Starbucks or Coffee Bean or any other trendy coffee house is so expensive it brings tears to my eyes.

Let your grandparents and others know how much you love Starbucks gift cards. They are anxious to know what they can send to you while you’re away. Then use the gift cards instead of your cash. Or buy an inexpensive coffee maker and make coffee in your room instead.

BUY OR RENT USED TEXTBOOKS

The cost of new textbooks is going to be so shocking it will make you want to chew your hair. You can cut that cost in half at least by buying used books online or even renting them. Take good care of them so that when you’re done, you don’t get charged a damage fee on rentals, and so if you purchased them, you can sell them back.

Take these basic money principles and apply them to your life now. Take money management seriously. You will never regret it.

And have a great year!

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.”

This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

BY TOM MARGENAU

I think I get more questions about benefits for spouses than I do about any other kind of Social Security benefit. And even though I’m using the gender-neutral term, “spouses,” these questions almost always come from women wondering what benefits they might be due on their husband’s -- or ex-husband’s -- Social Security record. Or they come from men asking about the benefits their wives or ex-wives might be due on their record. Women tend to qualify for benefits on a husband’s record because most times their own Social Security benefit is less than their husband’s benefit. Why? Primarily because women spend more time out of the workforce -usually because they take time off work to have and raise children.

Of course, there are some family situations where the wife makes more money than the husband and she ends up with a higher Social Security benefit. So, her husband might be due spousal benefits on her record. Still, statistics show that 95% of spousal benefits go to women, so I’m addressing them today.

Oh, and before I go on, I must cover this issue. Every time I write a column about benefits that wives and widows might be due from Social Security, I get angry letters from single women who have never been married asking me why I never write columns explaining what they are due from the system. I always have to explain to them that I write such columns all the time. If they are working and paying into Social Security, then they are potentially due the same kind of retirement or disability benefit that any other taxpayer might be due. I’ve written thousands of columns explaining these benefits. In other words, from a Social Security perspective, there is nothing special about being a single woman, or a single man for that matter. They just get regular Social Security benefits. So now, back to questions about benefits for wives and widows.

Q: My husband is 67 and starting to receive his Social Security benefits. I am 62. Other than a few years after high school when I had some part-time jobs, I have spent my entire adult life as a wife or homemaker, so I have no Social Security of my own. A neighbor told me that after my husband dies, I will never be able to get widow’s benefits because I don’t have my own Social Security account. Is this true?

A: It’s absolutely false. As I always tell my readers, never listen to friends or neighbors offering Social Security advice. It’s almost always wrong.

In fact, not only will you be due widow’s benefits when your husband dies, but you are also due dependent wife’s benefits on his record right now. So, call Social Security at 800-772-1213 and file a

Benefits for Spouses

spousal claim right away.

Q: I am turning 62. My husband is 68 and getting Social Security. Can I claim reduced spousal benefits now on his record and then at age 67 switch to full benefits on my own record?

A: No, you can’t do that. You must file for your own benefits first. After you do that, they will look at your husband’s record to see if you can get any extra spousal benefits from him.

Q: My wife took her own Social Security at 62. I am about to reach my full retirement age and plan to start my own Social Security. My wife is now 67. Her own benefit is very small, much less than mine will be. How can I figure out if my wife is due any spousal benefits on my record?

A: The formula is pretty simple. They will take your wife’s full retirement age rate (even though she took benefits at 62) and subtract that from one-half of your FRA rate. Any difference will be added to her reduced retirement benefit rate.

Q: I am waiting until age 70 to claim my Social Security. I am doing that to get the bonus added to my retirement rate for delaying starting my benefits until 70. But I was also doing that so that my wife will get my augmented benefits after I die. (Her own benefit is about a thousand dollars less than mine.) So, imagine my shock when a Social Security rep recently told me that after I die, my wife’s widow’s benefit will be based on my full retirement age rate, not my age 70 rate. Is this right?

A: No, it’s not right. And for some reason (lack of training?), SSA reps frequently get this wrong. While you are alive, any spousal benefits she might be due are based on your full retirement age benefit. But after you die, her widow’s benefits are based on your augmented age 70 rate, including the bonus you got for waiting that long to claim your benefits.

Q: I am 63 and have been a wife and homemaker all my life. So, I get a small percentage of my husband’s Social Security. But I’ve always wondered this: Why don’t women in my position get Social Security credits for the work we did as homemakers and child-care providers?

A: As I explained in a column not too long ago, this is a topic that has been debated for years. But the issue always comes down to this: Where would the money or earnings come from to put on your Social Security record? The only viable solution policy planners have ever come up with is a concept known as “earnings sharing.” In a nutshell, that means a working husband and stay-athome mom would split the earnings the husband makes. For example, if Husband Henry makes $100,000 per year,

$50,000 would go on his Social Security record and $50,000 would go on Wife Wilma’s Social Security record. Now, that might make Wife Wilma happy that she’s being “paid” for Social Security purposes with earnings and credits going on her account. But just ask Husband Henry how thrilled he is that he only gets Social Security credit for half the money he makes -- and eventually ends up with a much smaller Social Security benefit!

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

Impact of foreclosures on first time purchasers

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

It’s very obvious that our real estate market is still very strong. My last open house in Seaford had 17 participants on a Sunday and the very next day I had 7 qualified offers. In the 42 years that I have been involved in real estate, I had never experienced that many offers simultaneously in a 24-hour period. What is still quite amazing is that the final offer was way above our asking price.

Demand has not cooled off and as long as inventory is as low as it is, I do not see things changing; and the market will continue until either demand cools off or an unfortunate catastrophe occurs (I hope not). Anything is possible the way things and events are occurring in our world, and even international incidents or major local issues could have an effect causing the housing market to slow or moderate.

According to Bankrate.com, it appears that some economists and experts believe there may be 1-2 more interest rate hikes before the end of 2023. But predictions are generally never 100% accurate. Our economy is still chugging along and appearing very resilient, growing at 1% per year. We do have the best economy compared to all other global economies. What is quite surprising is that job openings have declined, and that should have caused unemployment to increase, but it hasn’t. This economic environment is different from past scenarios and that is why it has been extremely hard to accurately predict what will happen in the future.

However, what I have noticed is that there are still many cash and large down payment purchasers. There are those who have earned substantial sums of money in the stock market or in their businesses over the last 4 years and have decided to move a portion of their profits into either a first-time primary or move-up residence and or investment property.

According to FinMasters, Ruchi Gupta, foreclosures are slowly increasing and were 0.23% in 2022, which

appeared low, but were higher than in 2021 (0.11%) and 2020 (0.16%).

In 2020 government intervention was one of the reasons that kept the rate lower than it probably would have been. A total of 31,557 properties in the U.S. had foreclosure filings in January 2023, which was a 36% increase year over year. New Jersey had the highest foreclosure rate, with 1 foreclosure for every 2,271 homes. Cleveland metro area has the highest foreclosure rate of 0.40%, more than 316% above the national average. But Detroit saw the highest increase (807%) in foreclosure filings compared to the previous year. The highest foreclosure rate in the last 20 years was in 2010, at 2.23%. As ARMs come due on residential and especially commercial properties, there will be many more foreclosures and short sales, due to the higher costs of borrowing. I suggest one sell now to at least walk away with the tremendous equity that has been built up over the last few years. Call me for a free value analysis without any obligation.

The competition between firsttime buyers and investors is fierce. However, currently, end users should be able to outbid investors/fix and flippers, because, the profit potential has narrowed locally as the cost of materials and labor has skyrocketed. I always say, “If it doesn’t make sense in the brain, then it doesn’t make any cents in the pocketbook.”

But one of the critical and crucial issues is that if a first-time buyer qualifies for a grant, a full inspection needs to be performed in order for a mortgage commitment to be approved. However, due to all foreclosures being winterized, then an inspection becomes impossible and the buyer cannot move forward. I propose a simple change in the regulation that when a purchaser is allowed to pay $550 or whatever rea-

sonable amount is agreed upon. All winterized foreclosed properties could have their utilities to be temporarily turned back on so a full and thorough inspection could be completed. In this fashion, a mortgage commitment and grant can be approved. The $550 can either be credited back to the purchaser by the bank upon closing. However, if the buyer doesn’t move forward for any reason(s), the money can still be used to winterize the home again. Most important, there should be more time allowed for individuals and families to purchase and restrict investors during a waiting period before they could purchase. This will allow more buyers to secure the “American Dream” and build roots within the community, develop relationships with neighbors, and gain new potential long-term friends and connections. I believe it is a healthier environment than being in a rental situation, worrying about increased rents over the long run and concerns that the landlord might sell or not renew your lease, leaving you in a situation of having to move once again. Homeownership enables a family to hopefully be in a stable position for 15-30 years while gaining appreciation and a buildup of equity over that time period; as their mortgage is paid down and the benefits of tax deductions contribute to long-term wealth.

Currently, foreclosures are still more favorable to the investor, because they will purchase without an inspection and more important, pay outright for the purchase without financing. Their only purpose is to earn income and build their bank accounts; whereby an end user grows their family and involvement in the community. I believe this is far more important and impactful for the betterment and growth of the local community than the reason why an investor buys. Making it easier for an end user to purchase by allowing a full

inspection and for those who receive first-time homeowner grant money will always be a better path to pursue as long as the government changes its position and the regulations in allowing it to happen.

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 experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.) and in 2022 has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly construction. He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

You can email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your request or ideas, suggestions or interview you for a specific topic and a Q & A for a future column with your name, email and cell number. He will email or call you back and respond to your request ASAP as long as he has your complete name, cell, email and/or full home or business address. Again, for a “FREE” 15 minute consultation, he can also be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of July 30 -- Aug. 5, 2023

As August arrives, the full moon will overwhelm our night sky with its light. But once the moon leaves the early evening sky later in the week, you might enjoy getting out and searching for Draco, the dragon.

Now, Draco isn’t one of the top 10 stellar groupings that people can name, but I’m always surprised when I mention it that folks chuckle as if I were making it all up.

I admit that I’ve been known to do just this from time to time because, well, it helps to keep me amused. But I’m not making anything up; Draco is real, and you should have little trouble finding this celestial dragon in a reasonably dark sky.

To locate it, first identify the seven stars of the Big Dipper low in the northwestern sky shortly after dark. Draw an imaginary line among these stars and you’ll trace a “bowl” of four stars and a bent “handle” of three more. British skywatchers know this grouping as the Plough, while Germans and Scandinavians know it as the Great Wagon.

If you follow the two stars at the end of the Big Dipper’s bowl -- these are known as the “pointer stars” -- from the bowl’s bottom to its top, and extend that line about five times the separation of these two stars, you’ll point directly toward Polaris, the North Star.

From this important star emerge the handle and bowl of the Little Dipper.

The Celestial Dragon

This miniature dipper is smaller, fainter and inverted from the Big Dipper, but if you live in or near the lights of a large city or have bright moonlight, you probably won’t be able to see it at all.

It’s between these two famous dippers that you will find the celestial dragon, a large and ancient constellation that appears nightly in the northern sky. It wraps itself around the north celestial pole and remains perpetually above the horizon for much of the Northern Hemisphere.

Look for its long string of stars that begins nearly between the Big Dipper’s pointer stars and Polaris. This end marks the tail of the dragon. Follow the string of stars upward until it snakes back down toward Polaris, where it makes another sharp turn and heads upward once again.

At the upper end of the sinuous, dragonlike body lies a group of four stars that forms the head of the dragon, but modern amateur astronomers refer to this shape as the “lozenge.”

One of the most interesting sights in Draco lies near the opposite end of the dragon. The third star up from its tail appears a medium-bright star called Thuban, whose name not coincidentally derives from an Arabic word meaning “dragon.”

Because of the 25,800-year wobble of our Earth’s axis, this star -- and not Polaris -- was the North Star some five millennia ago when the Egyptians were building pyramids. If we wait patiently for another few millennia, we’ll again see Polaris drift away from the north celestial pole and watch as Thuban

takes its place again as the North Star -- a sort of back to the celestial future.

Now don’t start chuckling. I’m not

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Having Skin in the Game

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Dear Company That Makes All My Skincare Products:

I’m writing to tell you that I am a BIG fan of your products. They work wonderfully and I’m truly thrilled that you have products that meet all my needs: moisturizer, sun protection, hair care and deodorant. I also like the way everything is in similar-sized tubes, so it all looks nice when arranged on my vanity. My husband, of course, thinks I’m nuts for wanting all my products to line up nicely, but this is coming from a guy who squeezes his toothpaste from the middle, so I wouldn’t put much stock in his opinions.

Anyway, there is one thing I would like to ask your help on. While it cer-

tainly looks nice to have all the tubes the same size, it can make for an unplanned and unwelcome skincare experience.

For instance, this morning I went to use my moisturizer, and I grabbed the wrong tube. Without realizing it, I squeezed the contents of the tube into my hands and then slathered deodorant all over my face. While it’s nice to know that I won’t have a smelly face, it really wasn’t the outcome I was hoping for. It was also nice to know that my face would stay dry all day, although, unfortunately, it dried white and now I look like a mime.

The bigger issue, though, was that this mistake then created a domino effect where I put my sun protection under my arms, moisturizer in my hair and hair-care product all over my body

to add volume and bounce to the hair on my arms and legs. Yes, I know all these products have a different consistency, and I should have noticed that, but I was busy watching my husband squeeze the life out of his toothpaste, so I was distracted.

I actually thought the sun protection under my arms was not a terrible thing, as long as I wore a tank top and had my arms raised over my head any time I was outside in the sun. But the moisturizer made my hair flat and greasy, which is really a good look for a serial killer, but not so much for me. And, of course, my body was so slick from the hair-care product that when I tried to put on my jeans, they stuck to me and now I’m pretty sure I will be buried in them when I die because they are never

making that up either!

coming off.

Which leads us to my question. I would like to request that you change the sizes of these tubes, so no one else ever suffers the experience of looking like a serial killer mime wearing slick jeans and a tank top, who, at least, will not have a smelly face.

Most sincerely, Tracy

Beckerman

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

Follow Dennis Mammana at facebook/dennismammana.

Have fun with Draco, the dragon this summer. You can find the constellation using the pointer stars in the Big Dipper.

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

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900 AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW

EMPLOYMENT SITUATION

WANTED

HOME HEALTH AIDE/COMPANION.

1)

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

ASSISTANT

Seeking local lady in Great Neck vicinity or close by for help with daily activities. Food shopping, medical appointments and other errands.

P/T Flexible Days / Hours. Call 516-829-0542

MARKETING / SALES SUPPORT

Full-Time Marketing / Sales Support / Administrative Office Position in Floral Park NY Office. Seeking an energetic, professional, reliable person with excellent organizational, communication, and telephone skills. Must be able to multitask and interact with both staff and customers and utilize excellent follow-up skills. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. Annual starting salary 50-55k with benefits and 401k. Please send your resume to: slupo@s3mps.com

RECEPTIONIST PART TIME

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

EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

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

Excellent references. Please call 516-800-6442

Gentle. Optimistic. Experienced with many medical conditions and kinds of people. Families have told me I created a lovely environment, more than they could have hoped for. Please call Grace 917-499-9520

CAREER TRAINING

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING

PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) Computer with internet is required.

TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-5436440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) Computer with internet is required.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

DIRECTV

New 2-Year Price Guarantee.

The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/ mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-Silver-MirrorsLamps-Artwork

Come to Consign & Stay to Shop

Visit....

Our Shop

109 Eleventh St. Garden City

Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6)

Saturday 12-4

Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org

Items to Consign?

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

All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society

Like us on Facebook & Instagram

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN

is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now!

Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things!

You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week!

Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516-279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information.

Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

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

Immediate Cash Paid

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

TAG SALE

ESTATE SALE

GARDEN CITY

July 29th 9am-4pm

52 Maxwell Rd Garden City, NY 11530

Fine Arts & Furniture

Signed Paintings, Grandfather

Clock, Couch, Lamps, Chairs, Draperies, Crystal, China, Rugs, Bed, and more!

Must take purchased items same day or by August 6th.

516-770-8229

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS

$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU!

Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h.

DMV ID#1303199

Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS

516-297-2277

DRIVE OUT BREAST CANCER:

Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup 24hr response Tax deduction Easy to do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE

GARDEN CITY OFFICE

SPACE

Windowed office available in Garden City law suite. Use of reception area, conference room, kitchen, and copiers. Large workstation also available. Ample parking. Office has access from both sidewalk and building lobby. Prime location near parkways, restaurants, and shopping.

$1,500/month Call: 516-408-7030

GARDEN CITY PROFESSIONAL OFFICE

SPACE FOR SUBLET IN LAW FIRM SUITE

1305 Franklin Ave, Third Floor Suite 3 to 4 windowed offices and 2 to 3 Admin Asst. workstations available.

Shared reception area and kitchenette, use of conference rooms and copier included. Walk to LIRR Mineola station, courts, government buildings and GC downtown. Ideal for attorneys, accountants, insurance agents.

Available August 1st

Contact Michael Sparacino: michael.sparacino@brosnanlaw.com

VACATION RENTAL

FALL ON THE NORTH FORK!

Simply the Best!

Cutchogue Waterfront Cottage for rent! Sleeps 6. All new furnishings. Large peaceful property on Haywater Creek with dock. Perfect for Kayaking, fishing or just relaxing by the fire pit. Minutes from wineries, beaches, restaurants, shopping and farm stands. Weeks available in September, October, November. Price reduced to $300/nt.

Please call 516-551-1905 www.beebewaterfrontcottage.com

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

VACATION RENTAL MATTITUCK

2 Bayfront Homes For Rent

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

CONDO/CO-OP FOR SALE

CONDOMINIUM FOR SALE

GARDEN CITY

1 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath Condominium for sale. Located in Garden City at Wyndham East. Unit comes with 2 parking spaces. Asking $700,000. Call 516-524-3336

HOMES FOR SALE

GARDEN CITY STUNNER!

Welcome home to this beautifully renovated Colonial situated in the heart of the Mott section of town.

This 4-bedroom, 2-full bath and 2-half bath home situated on a 61’x100’ lot features top of the line appliances, hardwood floors, 9 ft. ceiling basement, blue stone patio with built in gas BBQ that is conveniently close to schools, parks, town and LIRR.

To schedule an appointment Call/Text 516-305-0895 or Email gyerooney@yahoo. com

SERVICES

ARE YOU BEHIND 10K OR MORE on your taxes? Stop wage and bank levies, liens and audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, and resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship

Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

SERVICES

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

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

BURKE CLEANING SERVICES

Home Cleaning, Offices, Apts. Household help.

Assisting Elderly clean up. We offer night service.

Excellent work at a low price!

PLEASE CALL 929-227-8309

COVID SAFE

AQUATEC LAWN SPRINKLERS

SPRING TURN ONS

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

CHIMNEY KING ENT. INC.

FREE ESTIMATES

Stainless steel liners

cleaning & repair specialists. Masonry specialist.

FULLY licensed & insured.

NYC NASSAU SUFFOLK

516-766-1666 or 631-225-2600

Since 1982 chimneykinginc.com

HANDYMAN

Careful & Reliable

Serving GARDEN CITY and surrounding area since 2003

Repairs & Installations of all types

Carpentry, Moldings, Lighting and More

35-yr Nassau Resident

References

Lic#170101

Phone/Text Friendly Frank: 516-238-2112

Email: Frankcav@optonline. net

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli. com

516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework

Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps.

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY!

Slate & Tile Specialists

All types of Roofing

Local References

Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

ROOFS, GUTTERS, CARPENTRY, BATHROOMS, KITCHENS, NEW BASEMENT ENTRANCES, EXTENSIONS, MASONRY, FLOORS, WATERPROOFING, DRAINS, LEAKS, STOOPS, DECKS, DRIVEWAYS, DEMOLITION, RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ARIS CONSTRUCTION

10% Discount w/ad. Call 516-406-1842

www.ArisLI.com

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care

Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications

516-248-9323

www.familycareconnections.com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

Call: 516-328-7499

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY Your Next Party!

Catering and Experienced

Professional Services for Assisting with Preparation, Serving and Clean Up

Before, During and After Your Party

Bartenders Available.

Call Kate at 516-248-1545

CLEANING

CLEANING AVAILABLE EXPERIENCED POLISH HOUSE CLEANER

Good references, ability. Very honest, reliable, responsible and hard working. Own transportation. English speaking. Flexible days and hours. Reasonable rates. I will do a good job.

Call or text 516-589-5640

SERVICES

DISH TV

$64.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95

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

Call 1-866-595-6967

LEAK REPAIRS

Plumbing Repairs

Bathrooms, Showers, Kitchens 24 HOUR SERVICE

Call 516-668-5624

MAGNUM SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.

Serving Garden City for 40 years.

Let Magnum Upgrade Your Existing Security System.

Burglar & Fire Alarms

Cellular Radio 3G Upgrades

Remote Access

Call: 516-486-5484

PASSION FOR SENIORS

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

Call 718-850-3400

Chicken fingers

make picnics fun

Sesame Chicken Fingers with Honey Dip

Picnics are a fun way to bring people together to enjoy food and conversation. While there are no limitations to what a picnic may entail, when it comes to food, it may be best to pack items that are portable and do not require many accoutrements for eating. That

Serves 4

1⁄3 cup light mayonnaise

3 tablespoons liquid honey

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1⁄4 cup light mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1. HONEY DIP: In a small bowl, stir together the 1⁄3 cup mayonnaise, honey and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until well combined. Refrigerate if making ahead.

2. In a small bowl, combine the 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise, Dijon mus-

is why finger foods make such great picnic fare.

Fried chicken long has been a popular picnic menu item, but other chicken dishes can fill in for this staple quite easily. For example, this recipe for sesame chicken fingers with honey dip can be enjoyed by kids and

adults on a picnic or even at casual events at home. This recipe, from “125 Best Chicken Recipes” (Robert Rose) by Rose Murray, features a sweet honey dip, but other dips can complement the meal as well.

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1⁄3 cup dry bread crumbs

3 tablespoons sesame seeds

1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning

1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts cut into fingers, 2 inches long by 1⁄2-inch wide

tard and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.

3. On waxed paper or in a shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, sesame seeds and Italian seasoning.

4. Coat chicken with mayonnaise mixture, then with bread

crumb mixture. Place on prepared cookie sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown and the chicken is no longer pink inside, turning once. Serve hot with the honey dip and potato wedges, if desired.

What’s our greatest asset at The Bristal Assisted Living communities? It’s the lifetime of interests and experiences you bring to it. After all, that’s what makes you special. A caring team that spends the time getting to know you so you can continue nurturing, sharing and exploring those interests? Well, that’s what makes us special, too.

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

thebristal.com

Tax exemption workshops planned

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D-Plainview) is partnering with the Nassau County Department of Assessment to host the first 2023 series of Property Tax Exemption Workshops for 16th Legislative District residents.

During the workshops, Department of Assessment staff will assist residents with filing for veteran, senior citizen, Cold War veteran, volunteer firefighter

and ambulance worker, limited-income disability and/or home improvement exemptions. Enhanced STAR applications will also be processed for homeowners already enrolled in the STAR program prior to Jan. 2, 2015.

All workshops are by appointment only. Homeowners are asked to make an appointment by calling 516-571-1500 or visiting www.nassaucountyny.gov/

assessment and using the appointment scheduler link. All workshops are from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.; additional workshops are planned for the month of October.

For more information or to receive a list of necessary documentation needed for the tax exemption workshop, call the Nassau County Department of Assessment at 516-571-1500.

The following workshops are

Get results!

planned:

• Wednesday, August 2: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville

• Monday, August 7: Syosset Public Library, 225 South Oyster Bay Road, Syosset

Professional Services Guide

Levittown summer camps spark creativity and imagination

Campers had a great time forming teams and completing obstacles that were set up by older student volunteers.

Students from throughout Levittown Public Schools flexed their creative thinking and engineering skills this summer at Camp Invention and STEM Camp held at Wisdom Lane Middle School.

Students gathered in classrooms and hallways to partake in several exciting initiatives that helped to keep their skills sharp between school years. One hallway became a battleground for different STEM Camp teams to compete with their customized, hand-controlled robots. The teams equipped their motorized companions with the tools needed to complete different tasks, such as “hands” that can grab and stack blocks. Throughout the program, students also used their STEM skills to create tools that would help them overcome unique obstacles.

Camp Invention challenges students

to let their imaginations run wild. Working together, students entering third, fourth and fifth grades faced tasks that required solutions with an engineering angle. Concluding their two-week Camp Invention adventure, students crafted vehicles that rolled on wheels, instruments with versatile range and mini skate parks complete with ramps. Showing off their entrepreneurial skills, students also opened shop with their dream business built in small-scale from the ground up. Campers also wrapped up the fun with an outdoor obstacle ring established by their peer volunteers, which totaled 41 students. Teams cooled off from the summer sun with water obstacles before crawling and jumping through hoops and making a soccer goal against a goalie.

In an outdoor obstacle course, campers raced to finish a series of physical challenges.

From left: Malu Vivar-Avila and Rosalia Spadanuta worked together to assemble a robot that can complete different tasks.

Campers gathered at Wisdom Lane Middle School from July 10-21 to partake in engineering-themed challenges in STEM Camp and Camp Invention.

From left: Students Hazel Rendon-Toutoulis, Grace Polanco and Peyton Harrison opened their own mini business complete with working lights.

Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools