SERVING BETHPAGE, OLD BETHPAGE, AND PLAINVIEW
LITTLE LEAGUE OPENING DAY
Hempstead Town Councilman Dennis Dunne (rear, 2nd right) and Town Clerk Kate Murray (rear, left) greeted members of the Orioles Team during the Levittown Seaford Wantagh (LSW) Sports League Opening Day on April 19, 2025 at Duckpond Ballfield in Wantagh. Also attending was Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti.
Bethpage HS announces valedictorian, salutatorian
Bethpage High School has announced Kaitlyn Ocuto as the valedictorian and Alexa Likourentzos as the salutatorian for the Class of 2025. Both students exemplify academic excellence,
leadership and dedication to their school and community.
With an impressive weighted GPA of 109.13, Kaitlyn Ocuto has earned the top academic honor as valedictorian of the Class of
2025. A well-rounded student and leader, Kaitlyn has made her mark both in and out of the classroom. She serves as captain of the cross country, winter
See page 10
The Bethpage Newsgram is published every Friday by Litmor Publishing Corp.
Periodical Postage paid at Hicksville, N.Y. 11801 Telephone 931-0012 - USPS 3467-68. Postmaster: Send Address Change to: The Bethpage Newsgram, 821 Franklin Ave., Suite 208, Garden City, N.Y. 11530 • Meg Norris Publisher
Third suspect arrested in Bethpage murder
Nassau County Police have arrested a third suspect in a shooting which took place in Bethpage on April 25. According to police, Jaslynn Nevach Garcia, of Shillington, Pennsylvania, together with two other suspects, were responsible for the death of Jorge Vazquez, 35, of Tampa, Florida. Vazquez was found dead of gunshot wounds in front of the Extended Stay Hotel on South Oyster Bay Road in Bethpage on April 2nd.
Garcia was extradited to Nassau County and charged with Murder 2nd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree.
Three killed in fiery Bethpage crash
Three young men were killed in a crash in Bethpage on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 11, at 1 a.m.
According to Nassau County Police, a 2022 Dodge Durango driving eastbound on Stymus Avenue struck a tree and caught fire. The Bethpage Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the fire, but the three occupants inside the vehicle perished.
Nassau County Police listed the deceased as: Gino Vicale, 20, of Seaford; Nicholas Rivera, 20 of Glendale; and Vincent Cavaliere, 20, of Bethpage. The police did not indicate which of the young men was the driver.
Cavaliere and Vicale both graduated from Plainedge High.
An investigation is ongoing.
Jaslynn Nevaeh Garcia
Earth Day Cleanup
THE JERICHO JOINT COUNCIL OF PTAs
Cantiague Elementary, Jackson Elementary, Ratner-Seaman Elementary, Jericho SEPTA, Jericho Middle School, Jericho High School
And support the 2025-2026 Jericho School Budget AND Proposition #2 Tuesday, May 20 MS/HS Gymnasium 6 AM - 9 PM
Hempstead Town Councilman Dennis Dunne and Town Clerk Kate Murray attended the Levittown Community Council Earth Day Clean Up at Levittown Veterans Memorial Park.
The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why for 25 years at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating personalized experiences that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. See for yourself. Explore all of our locations in the tri-state area. thebristal.com
Winter athletes, transportation staff lauded in Levittown
MacArthur High School’s girls bowling team was recognized for winning its first ever Nassau County title.
It was a night of celebration for both students and staff in the Levittown School District on April 23. The Board of Education recognized its transportation department as well as winter athletes.
The district’s transportation department was recognized for its 100 percent pass rate in inspections by the New York State Department of Transportation. Levittown maintains one of the largest bus fleets among Nassau County school districts.
Superintendent Todd Winch said it
is a true team effort that includes the transportation department’s leaders, office staff, mechanics and facilities staff. Their efforts ensure that the fleet is in top condition, which keeps students safe on their daily journeys to and from school.
“Our families know that their children are in safe and reliable hands,” Mr. Winch said, adding that the transportation staff’s work is often unseen and unheard, but deserves to be recognized.
“We’re really proud of this team,”
The Division Avenue High School kickline team received certificates from trustees.
The Levittown Board of Education honored the district’s transportation department for its perfect score on recent New York State Department of Transportation bus inspections.
added Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance Michael Fabiano. “We really wanted to honor this accomplishment of achieving a perfect score.”
The Board of Education also honored athletes from Division and MacArthur high schools who earned individual honors during the winter season. This included members of the basketball, bowling, cheerleading, swimming, track and wrestling teams. Among the honors were All-County, All-Conference and All-State athletes, county champions,
state qualifiers and scholar-athletes. Coach of the Year honorees were also recognized.
For winning its first ever county championship, the Board celebrated the MacArthur High School girls varsity bowling team. Additionally, the kickline teams from Division and MacArthur were honored for their outstanding seasons.
The MacArthur High School kickline team was recognized for a successful season.
Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools
Hicksville students make their marks in stone
Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION
Notice of Formation of Day To Day Senior Care Consult & Services LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/06/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Charles Day: 100 Duffy Ave, Hicksville NY 11801. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION
Notice of Formation of Mashawears Media LLC. Art. of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to: 998C Old Country Rd. #259, Plainview, NY 11803. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Formation of DELCO MARKET
LLC filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/27/2025. Office loc.: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address SSNY shall mail process to Jaswinder Singh, 70 Somerset Ave., Hicksville, NY 11801. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Formation of APNA EASTERN MARKET LLC filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/27/2025. Office loc.: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address SSNY shall mail process to Jaswinder Singh, 70 Somerset Ave., Hicksville, NY 11801. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Notice of Formation of JP Ventures Squared LLC.
Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/06/2024. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Allen Williams: 5 Brewster St, #503, Glen Cove, NY 11542. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Bethpage HS announces valedictorian, salutatorian
From page 1
track and spring track teams, and holds vice president roles in both the French Club and the Science National Honor Society. She is also treasurer of the Art Club, a member of the National Honor Society, and a committed Girl Scout.
Kaitlyn will continue her academic journey at the University of Florida this fall, where she plans to explore various fields of study before selecting a major.
Earning a weighted GPA of 109.09, Alexa Likourentzos has been named salutatorian of the Class of 2025. A scholar, musician, athlete and community leader, Alexa is the co-founder of Future Physicians Unite and
a dedicated member of the varsity swim and dive team. As drum major of the Bethpage Marching Band and senior class treasurer, she brings passion and organization to every endeavor. Alexa has received the Seal of Biliteracy and is a member of numerous honor societies, including National Science, Math, Spanish, Social Studies and National Honor Society. Outside of school, she actively volunteers with Holy Trinity Church.
Alexa will attend the University of Miami in the fall, where she plans to major in biochemistry as she pursues her passion for science and medicine.
Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Art students find inspiration in nature
On May 2, students from Ms. Courtney Young’s Drawing and Painting class in Bethpage High School took their studies outdoors with a visit to Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay. Surrounded by blooming spring flowers and sweeping landscapes, the students immersed themselves in the environment to practice plein air painting - a technique they had been studying in class.
During the trip, students were tasked with creating small observational studies of plants, flowers or trees, with the option to expand their focus to broader landscape scenes. Painting and drawing outdoors allowed them to engage all their senses, leading to a richer, more accurate representation of color and value than what is typically achieved by working from photographs.
With sketchbooks and paint sets in hand, the students had the freedom to explore the
On May 2, students from Ms. Courtney Young’s Drawing and Painting class took their studies outdoors with a visit to Planting Fields
entirety of the historic Gold Coast estate. After a productive morning of artmaking, they
gathered for a picnic lunch, enjoying the sunshine and serene beauty of one of Long
Salutatorian of Bethpage High School’s Class of 2025,Alexa Likourentzos.
Valedictorian of Bethpage High School’s Class of 2025 Kaitlyn Ocuto.
Island’s most stunning public gardens.
Arboretum in Oyster Bay. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Trade a Ho-Hum Summer Vacation for an Epic Adventure
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Still looking to trade a ho-hum summer vacation for a memorable adventure? Here are some ideas:
“No Passport” Adventures: 2025 Travel Trend
“No-Passport Vacations” are hot this summer, with American travelers eager to explore incredible destinations right here in the United States. Recent reports show a surge in domestic travel, with 60% of people wanting to see more of their own country.
Here are 10 unforgettable “No-Passport” adventures, from backcountry biking to horseback riding and chasing the Northern Lights (but don’t forget your Real I.D.):
Backcountry Biking in Utah: The Aquarius Trail Hut System offers a backcountry mountain biking experience like no other in the region. A system of five huts furnished with beds, a bathroom, a fully stocked kitchen and solar power has been strategically placed along a 190-mile route through some of Utah’s most scenic backcountry and best mountain biking trails. https://aquariustrail.com/
American Road Trip
2.0: Nothing is more rejuvenating than jumping in your car and heading out on an American road trip, and AdventureGenie is the world’s first AI-powered, end-to-end system for planning one. It offers the most immersive, innovative and intelligent adventure travel planning tools available. Whether starting from a curated GenieTrip or creating a fully customized and personalized journey
L.L. Bean’s Maine Guided Adventures: The famed adventure retailer now offers inclusive multi-day guided outdoor adventures in Maine. Among them, Maine Island Lighthouse Birding Trip; Maine Coastal Inn Kayaking Trip; Allagash River Canoe Trip; and Maine Island Kayak Camping Trip. Visit https://www. llbeanoutdoors.com/overnight-trips (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
from your own ideas, AdventureGenie has you covered. https://adventuregenie.com/
Alaska Lodge Adventure: Discover the rugged beauty of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska on a guided five-day trip with Adventure Life that combines outdoor exploration with lodge-based comfort. Tour Kennicott Town and learn about its mining history, hike to a hidden lake or across a glacier, try ice climbing, fly into the backcountry for a day of wilderness exploration, and paddle a packraft through pristine waters. https:// www.adventure-life.com/alaska/ tours/18770/wrangell-st-elias-nationalpark-lodge-based-adventure North Rim of Grand
Canyon: Providing gently rolling terrain of lung-expanding dimensions, the North Rim has been long-held as sacred ground to hikers and cyclists alike. Escape Adventures is offering a family-friendly, five-day camping and mountain bike adventure that includes riding singletrack to Monument Point, hiking into the canyon on backcountry trails, pedaling across the Kaibab Plateau and conquering the Rainbow Rim trail before descending to Indian Hollow. https://escapeadventures. com/tour/grand-canyon-north-rimmountain-bike-tour/ Yellowstone Fly Fishing: Take an expertly guided float down the Yellowstone River on one of Flying Pig Adventures› custom rafts
while you enjoy the spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and world-class fly fishing. Just outside Yellowstone National Park, the upper stretches of the river are lightly fished, but hold large numbers of native cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Private access to the river allows guides to take guests where the fish are without fighting the crowds. https:// www.flyingpigrafting.com/yellowstone-fly-fishing
Wine Country Weekend: North of San Francisco, the winding Russian River meets the dramatic Pacific coastline, shaping if not sheltering a world all its own. Escape Adventures offers an idyllic three-day road biking tour in this romantic landscape, quilted with a colorful patchwork of old growth redwoods, fruitful vineyards, historic towns and beautiful gardens. https:// escapeadventures.com/tour/napa-valley-weekend-road-bike-tour/
Cowboy Up in Montana: Settle in at the Circle Bar Ranch in central Montana for horseback riding and other classic dude ranch adventures. On the ranch’s 520 acres and nearby national forest land, ride a trusty steed through open prairies, across the Judith River or up a ridge for a breakfast cookout, go hiking, try fly fishing, sport shooting or archery, or tour a Yogo sapphire mine by UTV. At the end of the day, enjoy traditional ranch recipes and locally inspired dishes, and cozy accommodations in a historic cabin, the lodge or Ranch House. https://www.circlebarranch. com/
Jackson Hole Tiny House: Fireside Jackson Hole redefines the traditional vacation with
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Reba helps make a graduate’s dream come true
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
Singer Reba McEntire has always had a passion for music and for learning. Reba Nell McEntire was born in McAlester, Oklahoma, on March 28, 1955, and was raised on a ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma. Named after her maternal grandmother, McEntire was one of four children born to Clark and Jacqueline McEntire. Her mother wanted to become a country singer and she taught all of her kids to sing but she was a public school teacher, librarian and secretary.
Influenced by the country music of Bob Wills, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, Barbara Mandrell, and Patsy Cline, in college Reba McEntire attended local dances at the Oklahoma-Texas border so she could dance to Wills’ music, saying, “It didn’t get any better than dancing to Bob Wills music.”
McEntire’s music is a mix of traditional country music as well as country pop, mainstream pop, soul and R&B.
Reba McEntire was raised on a 40-acre ranch, which her father, a steer roper, steadily expanded on over the years with his rodeo winnings. McEntire’s father expected all the children to work on the ranch. She began riding horses at the age of three and by the time she was seven she was gathering cattle from before daylight until after dark.
“I loved growing up in Oklahoma,” she says. “We worked hard and we played hard. There was always a sense of unity with all of us working together.”
The family drove to watch her father compete. “Our car didn’t have a radio, so my mother taught us to sing in harmony,” she says. “It seemed like we were always singing. Eventually, we formed a vocal group called the Singing McEntires with myself, my brother, Pake, and my younger sister, Susie. We sang at rodeos, and when we were older we got some paying jobs in honky-tonks and dance halls. At the end of the night, we would each make about $13.” Reba McEntire was unsure about pursuing a professional country music career, however.
She continued to help out on her family’s ranch during her college years. In 1974, McEntire’s father suggested she take a job opportunity singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma
City. She contacted family friend and rodeo announcer Clem McSpadden who helped her get hired for the gig.
Performer Red Steagall heard McEntire sing at the Rodeo and he was so impressed that he invited her to Nashville to record demos for his music publishing company. That day Jacqueline McEntire asked Steagall if he was able to help get her children a recording contract. After returning to Nashville, Steagall contacted her in early 1975 and said, “I can’t take all three. But I could take Reba. She’s got something a little different.”
After recording McEntire’s songs in March 1975, Steagall sent her tapes around Nashville and got her a deal with PolyGram/Mercury Records in November. Her first single was “I Don’t Want To Be a One Night Stand.” Before she signed that music contract McEntire arranged to finish college at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and she graduated in 1976 with a major in elementary education and a minor in music.
Her mother always insisted that she get her college degree and pursue her musical career afterwards. Reba McEntire always wanted to be a public school teacher and she agreed that having a backup plan was important in case music didn’t work out.
Her most significant mentor? McEntire says it’s her mother. “She’s a very smart woman,” McEntire has said. “She is the one who taught me that if I was going to do something then I’d better do it. My mama wanted to be a country singer when she was young, but the opportunity wasn’t there for her. She put aside her ambitions to encourage her children to dream and take advantage of opportunities, no matter how small.”
In 1977 McEntire debuted at the Grand Ole Opry which was one of her greatest dreams. McEntire’s first #1 song was “Can’t Even Get the Blues” from her 1982 album “Unlimited.”
In 1984, McEntire signed with MCA Nashville Records and released “My Kind of Country,” which produced two #1 singles: “How Blue” and “Somebody Should Leave.”
That same year, she won the Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year Award. She would go on to win this award for four consecutive years from 1984-1987 and become the most-nominated female in CMA Awards
history. In 1986 McEntire joined the Grand Ole Opry and was named CMA Entertainer of the Year.
Reba McEntire has a long list of albums and accomplishments. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, she has won 15 American Music Awards, 13 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 6 CMA Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, an ACM Career Achievement Honor, the National Artistic Achievement Award from the U.S. Congress and more.
Reba McEntire believes in learning something new every day. She also enjoys celebrating the big milestones in life. She helped make a moment special for the drummer in her band, Garth Justice, on his graduation day. It was in December 2022 and McEntire said that night was Justice’s graduation ceremony from Lee University in Cleveland,
Tennessee.
She interrupted their regular scheduled programming to have an impromptu graduation ceremony. They we were supposed to be in Florida a month prior not that night but her drummer, Garth Justice, was supposed to receive his degree in business management. With his family present, Justice appeared on stage in cap and gown and Reba McEntire gave him his diploma.
Garth Justice had chosen to do the concert with Reba rather than attend his graduation ceremony so she brought the graduation to him. McEntire said, “May I present to you, the class of 2022 of Lee University, Garth Justice.” After the on-stage graduation ceremony, Reba and the band played one of her classic songs, “Is There Life Out There” in honor of Justice’s achievement.
A very Happy Graduation to all!
BY TOM MARGENAU
More Clarification of the ‘Spousal Bump’
I don’t think I coined the term. But I may have helped spread it around the world of Social Security. I’m referring to the “spousal bump.” Every time I hear it, it makes me chuckle. It sounds like some “dirty dancing” move by an old married couple in a shady nightclub! But of course, I know that’s not what the spousal bump is. It is a term that refers to the extra benefits a wife would get as a spouse on her husband’s Social Security record.
I’ve written past columns about this issue. But I continue to get questions from readers about it. And let me point out that the questions always involve the benefits a wife can get on her husband’s record. Even though Social Security laws are gender neutral, society hasn’t been. A husband’s own Social Security benefit is almost always higher than his wife’s own Social Security benefit. So, a wife is much more likely to qualify for a bump on her husband’s record. But if you happen to live in a household where the wife makes more money than the husband, then it’s the guy who could be eligible for the extra benefits. Anyway, here are a couple of recent questions about the so-called spousal bump.
Q: I turn my full retirement age in July 2025 I am scheduled to get $3,000 from Social Security if I file then. But everything I read and hear from socalled experts tells me to wait until 70 before I file for benefits. If I wait until then, I should get about $3,900 per month. One reason I am encouraged to do this is the extra widow’s benefits my wife would get, assuming I die first. She is 66. She took her Social Security at 62. She only gets $550 per month. I have two questions. How much of a spousal bump would she get if I filed now at my full retirement age? I’m assuming it’s half of my FRA benefit. And how much would she get if I wait until age 70 to file? I’m assuming it’s half of my age-70 rate.
A: Well, you’re wrong about your wife getting a bigger bump if you wait until 70. More about that in a minute. But first, here is roughly how they will figure your wife’s spousal benefits if you file at your full retirement age. They would take her full retirement rate and subtract that from one-half of your full retirement rate. The difference will be added to her reduced retirement benefit. So let’s put some numbers to that.
I’m going to guess that your wife’s full retirement rate would have been about $735. Then we subtract that from one-half of your full retirement rate, or $1,500. That leaves $765. That would be her spousal bump. We add that to her reduced retirement benefit of $550 -- meaning she would get $1,315 in total benefits if you filed for your Social Security to start in July.
And if you waited until age 70 to file, she would get exactly the same rate. Why? Because the benefits paid to a spouse of a 70-year-old retiree are always based on the
husband’s full retirement age rate, not his age-70 rate.
So, if you were thinking you would increase her spousal bump by waiting until age 70, you’re wrong. She would get a bump of $765, or total benefits of $1,315, whether you take benefits now or wait until age 70. In other words, there is absolutely no advantage in waiting until age 70 to increase your wife’s potential spousal benefits on your record -- while you are alive.
But there is an advantage in waiting until age 70 if your goal is to increase your wife’s potential widow’s benefits. And that’s because even though a wife does not share in the delayed retirement bonus you earn for waiting until age 70, a widow does.
If you wait until 70 to file for benefits, and then die, your wife’s total benefits would be bumped up to your $3,900 level. In other words, she would get her own $550 retirement check, as well as an additional $3,350 in widow’s benefits.
On the other hand, if you filed for benefits now and get your full retirement rate of $3,000, then your wife’s total benefits after you die would be $3,000 -- including her own $550 and $2,450 in widow’s benefits.
So, you and your wife just have to decide if she wants an early spousal bump by you filing now, or a larger “widow’s bump” later on if you wait until age 70 to file.
Q: I am about to turn 62. I’m trying to decide if I should file for benefits now or wait until my full retirement age. My FRA benefit would be $900. My age 62 benefit would be $630. My husband, who was always the primary breadwinner, is also 62, but he plans to wait until 67 to file for his Social Security. His benefit will be $4,200. So, I will eventually get more in spousal benefits on his record. But will I reduce my eventual spousal bump by filing for my own reduced retirement benefits now?
A: You would get the same spousal bump whether you file for your own benefits now or wait until your full retirement age to file. It’s just that if you file now, the bump would be added to your reduced retirement benefit. Whereas if you wait and file for your own benefits at your full retirement age, the bump would be added to your full FRA benefit.
As explained in the prior answer, here is how they would figure your spousal bump. They would take your FRA benefit rate ($900) and subtract that from one-half of your husband’s FRA rate ($2,100). The difference ($1,200) would be added to your own benefits.
In other words, if you file for your own benefits now, you’d start getting $1,830 in total benefits once your husband reaches FRA and you file for spousal benefits. (That’s your reduced retirement benefit of $630 plus the $1,200 bump.) If you wait until your full retirement age to file for your benefits and spousal benefits on your husband’s record, you’d start getting $2,100 in total benefits (Your FRA benefit of $900 plus the $1,200 bump.)
On first blush, waiting until your full retirement age to file seems like the smarter move. (You end up with an extra $270 in benefits.) But if you wait until your FRA to file, you would have missed out on $37,800 in reduced retirement benefits between 62 and 67. The question becomes, do you want that extra $37,800 for the next 5 years? Or do you want to forego that to get an extra $270 per month from your full retirement age on?
If you have a Social Security question,
Continued on next page
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
REAL ESTATE WATCH
Rental properties still the most advantageous investment
So today’s question is where is the best and safest place to park your investment dollars? I firmly believe it is rental real estate. It’s a long term play. Your tenants over the years will continue to pay down your mortgage. However, there is some effort that you will have to provide or hire someone to assist you to simplify the process. In my professional opinion, there is much less uncertainty with the right real estate investment, than playing the stock market. The stock market has been so volatile and unpredictable that one never really knows where it will be heading going forward. Now the tariffs against China have been reduced from 145% to 30%, paused for a period of 90 days, things might look very rosy indeed. However, who has the crystal ball to predict what will happen after that period of time? You have to determine your risk tolerance in whatever investment path you choose.
I do believe the tariffs were a ploy to depress the stock market to allow certain high net worth individuals to profit substantially and buy specific stocks that they sold at a high point, but then to re-purchase them back when they got crushed; losing trillions of dollars of market value for average Americans whose 401Ks and pensions were severely and still impacted. It’s a losing game for so many, as no one can really control the market.
Investing wisely in rental real estate provides greater control over your asset than the stock market. Finding the right property does take some time, analyzing, and crunching the numbers. Look for positive trends, increasing populations, job growth school rankings, commercial construction, infra-
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
structure improvements, etc. You are not alone, as a qualified, knowledgeable and expert Realtor can guide you through the search process. He or she can break the costs down in ascertaining the ROI and NOI. Paying outright for your purchase can provide you a bit of an advantage, as “cash is still king.” If financing, your mortgage person can also provide you valuable information to assist you in determining what will make sense in your brain and cents in your bank account.
cessful local Realtors who will guide you through the process from start to finish. Also, most important, ask for comparable sales to make certain that your offers are in line with what investors are paying. Make a list of questions to ask, to gain the valuable knowledge that is absolutely necessary to become a wise investor. You can also ask who they use as a local manager of the property, if you will not reside nearby.
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to:
In 2025, better returns can be achieved in upstate NY (Syracuse, Buffalo and Albany), Florida (Tampa and south Florida) and no state income tax, Tennessee (Nashville), no state income tax, Texas and even California (Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco Bay area) and Hawaii (Honolulu, Maui, The Big Island, Kauai) for a very strong vacation market. These markets have strong job and economic growth. Single family homes usually provide longer term tenants greater stability and less turnover.
It is extremely crucial to do your due diligence to determine what the risks are. In 2025, these markets are very strong and show excellent returns. You have to speak to your CPA and financial planner and see if this fits your portfolio of investments. More info here: Best Places to Buy Rental Properties in the US in 2025.
Make sure you converse with a knowledgeable, expert and most suc-
Proceed carefully and thoughtfully when investing. As the cost of residential real estate continues to increase, due to a severe lack of inventory, many potential purchasers are being shut out of the market. They will opt for rentals, especially in locations will above average school districts. It’s location, location, school district.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:
National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate).
Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions.
National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).
https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/ no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.com
You can now search at your leisure for properties at: WWW.Li-RealEstate.com bit.ly/4bXWVu6 (facebook.com) bit.ly/4inVqaR (X.com) bit.ly/4bVSwrs (linkedIn) bit.ly/4inVK9z (Instagram) bit.ly/4bQH14x (YouTube)
BY MARY HUNT
By a show of hands, let me see how many of you have a credit card in your name. Uh-huh, I see those hands. It appears that my audience falls right in line with national averages: About 70% of you have at least one credit card. And how would you categorize your relationship with your card issuer?
If you are carrying credit card debt, it really bugs you that the company takes so much of your money in interest and fees. In fact, some cardholders admit to feeling helpless in the strong arms of the credit card giants who charge big, whopping fees on top of double-digit interest rates. It has been said that the borrower becomes a slave to the lender. Truer words could not be spoken of how it feels to be in credit card debt.
CHEAPSKATE
Haggling for Dollars
charged waived.
Just ask. That’s right; simply pick up the phone and ask. On the back of your credit card is a toll-free number for customer service. Call and courteously make your request. Provided you have been a good customer, you may be surprised to learn just how quickly the company will comply with your request.
Why?
Because there is a lot of competition
consider making: Lower my interest rate; waive my annual fee; raise (or lower) my credit limit to improve my credit score.
Not long ago, I suggested this to a group of blog followers and asked them to share their experiences.
Deborah reports: “My interest rate was lowered 2 percentage points, and I was given 2,500 free miles, which I would never have thought to ask for.”
So, are you ready to do something about this? Sure, I know you are doing your level best to get out of debt and keep a credit card as a tool -- not a noose. But even now, as you are working your way out of debt, there is something you can do to reduce your interest rates and fees and perhaps even have fees that were already
out there. They know your mailbox is jammed with offers, and quite frankly, they do not want to lose a valuable, profit-generating customer like you to another company. It’s cheaper for card issuers to cut you a break than lose your business and have to find a new customer.
There are several requests you should
Michelle writes: “My husband recently charged to a card, and we went over the limit. I called Capital One, and they waived the $39 fee because we have never had an over-limit fee, and our payments are always on time.”
Judy responded: “I called Capital One, with whom I have had a credit card for 10 years. I’ve paid an annual fee every year. I spoke with customer service and politely asked if the $95 annual fee could be waived. She passed me to an account specialist, and based on the longevity and ‘impeccable’ status of my account, he offered me a one-time fee waiver and said they would send me a letter confirming this in writing. I’m thrilled! That five-minute call put $95 back into my wallet.”
Are you ready to exercise your savvy customer muscles? Well then, let the haggling begin!
Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”
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A Couple’s Guide to Common Money Myths
BY MARY HUNT
The wedding was beautiful and fulfilled your fondest dreams. But it’s over, and now it’s time to settle in and enjoy your new life together. Lucky for you, I’m here to warn you about some common money myths that newlyweds have been known to bring with them into their marriages.
MYTH: DOUBLE THE INCOME, HALF THE EXPENSES
This is what I call newlywed fuzzy math: Merging your lives and incomes into one household is the equivalent of getting a raise. Don’t believe that, not for a second.
Counter: Start out living on only one income, and save the rest. This will require going against everything the culture insists you deserve, but it will allow you to move seamlessly into parenthood. When that day comes, you’ll have an impressive savings account and options. And a gallery of envious friends.
MYTH: THERE’S STUFF WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT No, there isn’t. But it will be easy to convince yourselves that you absolutely must have matching furniture, new cars, and all kinds of gadgets and services to
make your lives easier and keep up with your friends.
Counter: Make a pact that you will never go into debt for “stuff.” Period.
MYTH: IF WE QUALIFY, WE CAN AFFORD IT
Whether it’s a new credit card or a new nothing-down, interest-only mortgage for a house that, in your hearts, you know you cannot afford, never allow your ability to qualify to be the determining factor. Getting in over your heads in a house or credit card debt is the recipe for a marital disaster.
Counter: Never think of a credit card company, real estate agent or mortgage broker as a financial adviser. They are salespeople looking to close deals. Get advice from a wise person who will not benefit financially from the decision you make.
MYTH: WE HAVE PLENTY OF TIME
It does seem as though you have a lifetime ahead. And that you don’t really need to save money now, while things are tight. But that’s a myth.
The truth is you cannot afford to go one more day without a savings commitment for many reasons. You will want to retire. You do not want to feel forced into debt
when something unexpected happens. You do not want to get used to spending all that you have. You want to create a sense of security and peace in your marriage.
Counter: See 10% of your net income as a mandatory financial obligation, just like your rent or mortgage payment. Pay it to yourselves, without fail, starting now
MYTH: SOME MONEY ISSUES ARE BEST KEPT PRIVATE
Whether it’s student debt or a secret credit card account, keeping money secrets from your beloved is not good for your marriage. You might be able to pull off financial infidelity for a while, but eventually, it will come back to bite you.
Counter: Start out with a commitment to full disclosure and total honesty. That will build something into your marriage that money cannot buy: trust.
MYTH: EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE AS SOON AS WE MAKE MORE MONEY
It does make sense that if you are struggling now, you won’t once you get a big raise or finish school or get your grandmother’s inheritance or win the lottery. The truth is that more money will never be enough until you learn how to manage the money you already have.
Counter: Make the necessary adjustments now to live beneath your means. That will ensure that when more money comes into your lives, you’ll know exactly how to take care of it.
MYTH: IT’S TOO LATE
No matter how long you’ve been married or how difficult your situation may appear, it’s not too late. It will take longer and be more challenging, but you can turn your situation around. Two people committed to reaching a single goal create a powerful force.
Counter: Decide right now that you are going to do whatever it takes to debt-proof your marriage!
Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”
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A French standard offers a unique way to prepare beef
Beef Bourguignon
Makes 6 servings
Beef is a versatile ingredient that’s popular in countries across the globe. There’s no shortage of ways to prepare this favorite protein source. French chefs utilize beef in various recipes, and one popular dish is Beef Bourguignon.
1 1⁄2 tablespoons sunflower oil
7 ounces diced smoked bacon
This stew works well as a comfort food, and has become a standard of French cuisines over the last century and a half and made widely popular in the United States when Julia Child first adapted the recipe.
Those who want try their hand at cooking beef in the French fashion can look to this recipe for “Beef Bourguignon” from Lines+Angles.
2 finely chopped garlic cloves
1 tablespoon tomato passata
2 1⁄4 lbs. beef steak, chuck, cut into 21⁄2-centimeter cubes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 onion
3 carrots, peeled
14 ounces button onions, or small round shallots, peeled
1) Preheat the oven to 275° F.
2) Heat the sunflower oil in a large, wide saute pan or casserole dish set over a moderate heat until hot. Add the bacon and fry until golden and crisp, 7 to 8 minutes. Remove from the pan to a plate lined with paper towels.
3) Dust the chuck steak with the flour, shaking off the excess. Season with salt and pepper before browning in the pan, in batches, over a moderately high heat.
3 cups good quality red wine (e.g., from Burgundy)
1 2⁄3 cups beef stock
3 bay leaves
4 to 5 sprigs young thyme, plus extra for garnishing
1 small bunch chives, snipped
Salt
Freshly ground black peppercorns
Remove from the pan to a bowl.
4) Return the pan to a medium heat. Add the butter, let it melt, and then stir in the onion, carrot, pearl onions, and a pinch of salt.
5) Sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until colored. Add the garlic and tomato passata, and cook for a further minute.
6) Return the beef to the pan and deglaze with the wine, scraping the base to release any stuck-on bits.
7) Stir in the stock, bay leaves and thyme sprigs, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, transfer to the oven.
8) Braise for about 90 minutes to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and easy to pull apart.
9) Remove from the oven and season to taste with plenty of salt and pepper. Serve from the pan with a garnish of snipped chives and some thyme sprigs.
Last Hope Part of the Chewy.com Rescue Program
If you haven’t tried Chewy.com yet for your pet food and supply purchases, this is a great time to check them out. Last Hope is part of their rescue program. For each new customer that makes a purchase, Last Hope will receive a $20 donation. Go to Last Hope’s Chewy page at https://www.chewy. com/g/last-hope-animal-rescue_b100553681 for info on Last Hope and to shop for items and necessities on the shelter’s wish list.
Jenga tournament keeps students occupied during advisory period
BY GARY SIMEONE
What better way to hold a student’s concentration than a school-wide Jenga tournament. That is exactly what took place during the early spring semester at the Hicksville Middle School. Students in the sixth, seventh and eighth grade classes competed against one another in their free advisory period to help occupy their time and have a fun gaming experience.
Jonathan Silkowitz, assistant principal at Hicksville Middle School, said that it is commonplace for students to play games in Advisory, which takes place between their sec -
ond and third periods.
“To occupy their time in advisory which is essentially their free period the students usually are engaged in some sort of game like chess, parcheesi or checkers,” said Silkowitz. “There are almost a hundred advisory periods throughout the day which usually holds up to fourteen students. It’s important to keep them engaged and occupied which is where the gaming element comes into play.”
The Jenga tournament took place almost every day during the months of March and April. Kids in every grade level competed against each other in a match format in the cafe -
teria room.
Raquel Ridgewell, a seventh grade student, said she had a fun time participating in the tournament against her classmates.
“Usually we play chess or games of Connect 4, but this time around it was fun participating in something different,” said Ridgewell. “Jenga really test your steadiness as you have to be extra careful stacking up the wooden blocks and removing one piece of block out at a time.”
Ridgewell had a steady hand as she was able to finish in second place in the competition at her grade level.
Vidit Singh, an eighth grader at the school, was able to finish first in
the competition after beating out his classmates in the game of wooden blocks.
“Just being able to pull out the blocks without them toppling over was a lot more satisfying than just a normal board game,” said Singh. “Another element was that playing the game was a positive way for students to interact with each other during their free period. I got to know a couple of people I had never really spoken to before.”
Singh is also a chess champion at the school and is currently in the semifinal round in the eighth grade competition.
Photos courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools
Town hiring basketball coaches, refs for summer program
The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Town is looking for experienced basketball coaches and referees for the Summer Youth Basketball Program, designed for boys and girls in 3rd through 8th grade.
“This is a great opportunity for basketball enthusiasts to have some fun over the summer while making a positive impact on the youth in our com -
munity,” said Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “Coaches can start as young as age 16, allowing them to have a meaningful summer job while receiving hands-on experience and making a difference.”
All coaches must have a minimum of two years’ experience playing basketball and/or coaching a prior team. All referees must have at least two years’ experience in refereeing
basketball games. Coaches must be available to coach at least one game per week, as well as one practice per week. Coaches will be given the opportunity to set up practice at a time that works best for themselves and their team.
The basketball program will run Monday, June 16, through Thursday, August 13, (final two weeks are allotted for any necessary makeups)
Love to write?
and evaluations will begin June 7. The program will run at Haypath Park in Old Bethpage, PlainviewOld Bethpage Community Park and Syosset-Woodbury Community Park. For more information, prospective applicants should contact the Town’s Department of Parks, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-7945.
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Hicksville Middle School eighth grader Vidit Singh prepares to remove a block during the Jenga competiton.
Hicksville Middle School Jenga champions, eighth grader Vidit Singh, Assistant Principal Dr. Jonathan Silkowitz, seventh grader Brianna Kennedy and sixth grader Samantha Sanchez.
Career Day brings a glimpse of the future
Students at Gardiners Avenue Elementary School in the Levittown School District got a taste of the career paths that may lie ahead of them during the annual Career Day on May 5.
Smiles shone brightly as students walked outside to see police cars, a firetruck, a garbage truck and an ambulance. The professionals described how they made a career serving their community as students viewed the equipment used by the Nassau County Police Department and the Wantagh Fire Department. Inside the school, there was much more to explore as professionals visited classes and represented a wide range of careers, including an insurance investigator, an electrician, a fashion designer, a geneticist and a doctor of physical therapy. In the all-purpose room, students gathered to see a K-9 service dog in action. Each visitor gave an in-depth presentation about their career and brought in their everyday tools for students to observe.
Luca Vacchio donned a firefighter’s gear.
Students interacted with Nassau County Police Department officers during the annual Career Day on May 5.
Classes explored the inside of ambulances, firetrucks and police cars.
K-9 Unit officer Larry McArdle and K-9 Zoe showed students some of their routines.
Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools