SERVING BETHPAGE, OLD BETHPAGE, AND PLAINVIEW
Hicksville Memorial Day Parade
Parade organizers at the end of the ceremony. From left to right: Honorary Grand Marshal Joe Dubon - US Marine - Vietnam War, Honorary Grand Marshal Frank Guarasci - US Army - Vietnam War, Grand Marshal Gerard O’Brien - Hicksville Fire Department Ex Chirf - US Navy, Ex Chief Karl Schweitzer - Hicksville Fire Department, Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker, Father Christopher Sullivan - Pastor Holy Family Church - Chaplin Hicksville Fire Department.
(Photo courtesy of the Hicksville Historical Society/Michael Christodoulou)
BY MICHAEL CHRISTODOULOU, RECORDING SECRETARY OF HICKSVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Every year there is an American tradition to organize a Memorial Day Parade on the last Monday of the May. This year community members across Hicksville gathered
on Monday, May 25, to honor the heroes who have sacrificed their lives for the United States of America. Hicksville residents of all ages gathered in the parking area, near the Hicksville Fire Department for the parade preparations. The parade started at 9am at the Hicksville Fire Department, went down Broad-
way, Old Country Road and Jerusalem Avenue and continued toward the Middle School Veterans’ Memorial Park.
This year the Parade’s organizational structure included the following: Master of Ceremonies Ex Chief Karl Schweitzer - Hicksville Fire Depart-
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Town unveils new memorial honoring baymen
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Lou Imbroto, Councilman Tom Hand, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato joined with members of the Baymen’s Heritage Association and Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder to host a dedication ceremony for a new monument at Theodore Roosevelt Park. The Baymen’s Memorial Monument, which was installed overlooking the harbor where many baymen make their living, is a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made by all baymen.
“This new monument, featuring a statue of a bayman pulling his catch onto his boat, will forever remember those who make their living from the sea. This will be a place of reflection, where friends, family and visitors can view our beautiful harbor and take a few minutes to think about the sacrifices made by our baymen,” said Supervisor Saladino. “They toil in a challenging environment and endure hardship to bring the bounties of the sea to our tables. Throughout the year, despite the elements, baymen harvest
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The Town of Oyster Bay installed a new monument to honor the sacrifices made by all baymen.
Jericho resident featured in play
Jericho resident Julian Evan Hernandez is singing a featured role in the Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island’s 2026 production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s classic The Yeomen of the Guard, with full-orchestra performances coming up in Commack on June 20, in Oakdale on June 21, in Port Washington on June 27 and in Rockville Centre on June 28.
The Light Opera Company is one of Long Island’s oldest cultural institutions, celebrating its 72nd season. Hernandez is making his company debut in the current production.
The Yeomen of the Guard, which debuted in 1888, with book and lyrics by W.S. Gilbert and music by Arthur Sullivan—blends music and drama in perfect balance, providing the occasion for some of the team’s most memorable songs, including Elsie’s famous “Oh, Mercy.” The current production, directed by Gayden Wren, with music directed by Stephen O’Leary and orchestra conducted by Michael C. Haigler, is the Light Opera Company’s first since 2009.
“It’s a really moving story, and the music is exceptionally beautiful,” said Wren, a Gilbert & Sullivan expert who has directed the Light Opera Company in more than 30 productions since 1986. “It has plenty of laughs, but instead of the usual farcical Gilbert & Sullivan plot, it’s a story of realistically depicted people in situations that evoke real emotion. It’s been a pleasure to explore this complex, rewarding work with so gifted a cast.”
He added that Hernandez’s performance as Leaonard is a highlight of the opera.
“Julian is a real find,” Wren said. “He has a high, clear tenor voice, and brings a comic earnestness to his performance as Leonard. He can be a tough character to bring to life, because he’s so heroic and moral, but Julian is doing an excellent job
Bethpage senior awarded Renaissance Scholarship
Ava Morgan (left), recipient of the Renaissance Scholarship, and Francesca Calio, Bethpage High School Italian teacher and advisor of the Italian Club.
with the part.”
The Yeomen of the Guard will be presented on Saturday, June 20, at 8 p.m. at the Star Playhouse at the Suffolk Y JCC, 74 Hauppauge Road in Commack; on Sunday, June 21, at 3 p.m. at the CM Performing Arts Center, at 931 Montauk Highway in Oakdale; on Saturday, June 27, at 8 p.m. at the Jeanne Rimsky Theatre at The Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main Street in Port Washington; and on Sunday, June 28, at 3 p.m. at the Madison Theater at Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Avenue in Rockville Centre. Admission is $35 (seniors $30, students $15). For further information, call (516) 619-7415 or visit https://gaslocoli.org/tickets.
Congratulations to Bethpage High School senior Ava Morgan, who has been awarded The Renaissance Scholarship from the North Shore Long Island Chapter of UNICO National.
Ava is a trilingual world languages student and a member of both the Spanish and Italian honor societies. She spoke at this year’s World Languages Honor Societies’ induction ceremony
on the transformative power of multilingualism. This fall, Ava plans to attend the honors college at the University of South Carolina and major in International Business.
UNICO is the largest Italian American service organization in the United States and supports charitable, educational, cultural and civic programs.
Summer Youth Ice Hockey Program
The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that registration for the Town’s Summer Youth Ice Hockey Program is now open for boys and girls ages 8U–16U. This program includes instructional technique work, games and more. Clinics spanning 10 weeks in duration will also be available for registration including all girls’ clinics, 6U clinics, adult learn to play clinics and advanced skills for travel players clinics. Programs will begin on July 6, 2026.
“This recreational and instruction program is designed to give youngsters a great way to learn the correct fundamentals of one of America’s most
popular sports,” said Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “In addition to receiving instruction on the proper techniques of skating, stickhandling and shooting, participants will make new friends and create lifelong memories.” Registration is available online at www.oysterbaytown.com/sports. All registrants must provide a copy of their birth certificate, proof of residency, and payment for registration.
All participants must provide their own equipment and should have some skating ability. For more information, call the rink at (516) 433-7465, x 8234 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/hockey.
Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Jericho resident Julian Evan Hernandez will be performing in the Gilbert & Sullivan classic "The Yeomen of the Guard".
Arrest made in Levittown stabbing
Nassau County Police arrested a Copaigue man for allegedly stabbing another man in the leg.
According to police, at 5 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, David McCarthy, 41, was involved in a verbal argument with a 28-year-old male victim at his Levittown residence. Police say the argument escalated and the McCarthy stabbed the victim in the leg, causing a severe laceration. Police say McCarthy then fled the scene prior to police arrival. The victim was transported to a local area hospital for evaluation and treatment of his injuries.
Subsequent to the investigation, Nassau County Police located and arrested him. No other injuries were reported.
McCarthy is charged with Assault 1st Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th Degree.
David McCarthy
Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our Garden City office at 516-294-8900 for more information.
Flag Day at Village School
Members of VFW Post 6394 met with staff and students at Village Elementary School to celebrate Flag Day.
On Tuesday, June 9th, 2026, VFW Post 6394 met with the staff and students of Village Elementary School in Syosset, N.Y. to celebrate Flag Day. Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the first official U.S. flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777. It is a time for Americans to reflect on their heritage and display the flag as a symbol of unity and freedom. VFW post members were graciously hosted by Dr. Sari McKeown, school staff members (Rachel Brine or Rachael Devore), Jennifer Graham along with teachers, aides, monitors and exuberant students in grades K through 5.
The 45-minute celebration kicked off
with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by our National Anthem. Post Members then shared their military experience with the students followed by a demonstration of the proper way to fold the American flag, (13 folds), along with an explanation of what the folds signify and represent. Finally, each student received a small flag as they proudly waved them while singing “You’re a Grand Old Flag”. A great time was had by all.
Eligible VETERANS are invited to attend a VFW Post 6394 meeting & see what we’re about. Call us at (516) 9217956
Levittown schools host language teacher’s summit
More than 90 educators attended the Long Island Language Teachers Summit for World Language Educators hosted by Levittown Schools at Levittown Memorial Education Center on May 28.
On May 28, Levittown Public Schools hosted the Long Island Language Teachers Summit for World Language Educators, which was attended by more than 90 educators from across the region.
Organized by Director of World Languages and ENL Michele Ortiz, attendees received important updates on World Language Standards, the New
York State Seal of Biliteracy, and the Portrait of a Graduate initiative, including its connection to World Language education.
Guest speakers included Candace Black, associate in the Office of Bilingual Education and World Languages, NYSED; Dr. Jordan Gonzalez, administrative coordinator for the Long Island Regional Bilingual Education Resource
Wisdom Lane Middle School Principal John Avena was recognized as a Friend of World Languages.
Network; Wendy Mercado, president of NYSAFLT; Will Anderson, associate dean for external relations and field placement at Hofstra University’s School of Education; and Brittany Cirrone, Levittown’s educational technology and career exploration coach. Levittown teacher Dana Mazzella received the Kathleen Ann Lyons Memorial Excellence in Teaching
Award. Wisdom Lane Middle School Principal John Avena was recognized as a Friend of World Languages, and student Riley Cunningham earned the Lucille DiPietro Lambert Student Award for Excellence in World Language Studies Award.
This Week at the Syosset Public Library
Friday, June 12, at 10:00 a.m.
Simply Stronger with Balance (VIRTUAL)
Instructor: Mindy Vasta
Handheld weights, resistance bands and balls will help improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. Includes a balance segment to enhance posture, core strength, and proper alignment of muscle groups. Exercises can be performed sitting or standing. Equipment recommended but not required. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org. The Zoom link will be sent out once you register.
Friday, June 12, from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Driver’s Safety Course (IN-PERSON)
Completion of this program entitles you to a NYS insurance discount and point reduction. In person registration ONLY. For drivers of all ages. Fee: $33
Sunday, June 14, at 1:00 p.m.
Concert: The 250th Birthday Celebration with the
Paul Effman Band (IN-PERSON)
Presenter: The Paul Effman Band
To honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Paul Effman Band has created a musical tribute featuring patriotic arrangements with hits from the decades that shape our cultural landscape. This program also contains singalongs. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.
Tuesday, June 16, at 11:15 a.m.
Mind in Movement (VIRTUAL)
This class is designed to utilize our thinking and coordination skills as we segment through cardiovascular and strength exercises. There will be changes in timing and repetitions as we move through the class. All movements can be performed sitting or standing. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.
Thursday, June 18, at 2:00 p.m.
The Odd Couple (IN-PERSON)
Presenter: Lawrence Wolff,
film lecturer
This lecture will discuss how the casting came about for Broadway, the film and television versions. Some of the potential pairings will boggle the mind. You will also learn why the setting of the TV show changed after the first season. Some film highlights will be shown. No registration needed.
Thursday, June 18, at 7:00 p.m.
Writing Workshop: Tricks and Literary Devices to Improve Your Writing (VIRTUAL)
Presenter: Erin Coughlin, award-nominated writer and producer, and author of “Pop and
Fizz’s Double Feature Movie Guide”
Get the confidence you need to develop and finish your stories. Learn how to improve your story using a variety of professional storyteller’s tools and tricks that will make your everyday writing easier and your stories even better! Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.
Friday, June 19, at 1:30 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.
See what's happening at your library!
From classes to lectures and concerts to movie screenings, there's never a dull day at your local library! Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, all for free or cheap!
Fibromyalgia - The Invisible Illness
You wake up some days and can’t get out of bed.
Most evenings the pain is so intense you can’t even make dinner for your family.
The exhaustion takes over and covers you like a heavy blanket.
And of course, depression hits: you can’t clean your house or play with your kids.
You wonder if you’re any good to anybody like this.
This is life with Fibromyalgia.
And it was everyday life for Kelly C. of Westbury, NY. “I would spend my days in bed as the pain traveled to different parts of my body. Often it would feel as though there were bugs scurrying under my skin, a sensation I wish on no one. Look, I knew my family needed me, and it was devastating to disappoint them day after day because I didn’t feel well,” shares Kelly.
Fibromyalgia is a complicated and chronic condition that disrupts the lives of over 4 million people in the U.S. because of inconsistent and allencompassing symptoms, fibromyalgia remains one of the most difficult conditions to diagnose and treat. Ultimately, it becomes a diagnosis of exclusion. Scans show nothing, tests come back inconclusive, and your questions don’t have answers so the doctors diagnose you with “fibro”. A majority of practitioners will recommend anti-inflammatory diets increasing you take of magnesium, or prescribe
prescription medications that come with a slew of uncomfortable side effects. All of these are band-aids, masking the symptoms rather than fixing them.
“All the doctors and specialists I met with couldn’t offer me a real solution. Some even had the audacity to tell me that my pain was all in my head. I had never felt so defeated and disrespected. I started doing my own researchreading articles that told me to go gluten-free and eliminate toxins, even in my face wash. I did all of it and didn’t find any relief. However, I was having such a hard time focusing and concentrating. I’m not entirely confident in anything I did.”
Kelly’s story is not uncommon amongst those suffering from fibromyalgia. The pain is inconsistent and unrelenting, causing debilitating chronic fatigue and brain fog, something the afflicted not-so affectionately refer to as ‘fibro fog.’
the staff at Westbury Acupuncture have a 90% success rate in treating Fibromyalgia?
There are a few suggested causes for fibromyalgia including genetics, infections, and physical trauma, but so much about this disease is still so unknown that it has been dubbed the ‘invisible illness.’
Until now!
“I saw something on the local newspaper featuring licensed acupuncturist, Jae Won and his work with fibromyalgia.
At this point, I was willing to try anything. And thank God I did. Going to his acupuncture clinic has allowed me to go from surviving to truly thriving!” Kelly exclaims. “Since starting treatment, I went from not being able to cook dinner for my family to cooking for my daughter’s entire graduation party and playing slip-n-slide with two dozen teenagers. I was even able to go visit my mother for the first time in two years! Before I was unable to make the ride because it put me in too much pain. I even hugged her!”
And why do Jae Won and
Jae Won shares all. “In addition to acupuncture, which has been used to treat pain for thousands of years, we use ATP Resonance BioTherapy. It’s a cutting edge technology that targets specific tissues in the body. It then reprograms them for optimal performance. We have protocols for a myriad of chronic conditions from neuropathy to tendonitis. We can even target the pain and inflammation caused by fibromyalgia.”
It’s in combining his experience, the time-tested science of acupuncture, and modern medical solutions like ATP Resonance BioTherapy that Westbury Acupuncture is giving much needed relief to those suffering with fibromyalgia and other complicated, chronic conditions.
Because Jae Won designs very personalized treatment programs for each of his patients, an initial consultation is required in order to receive treatment.
For a limited time the cost of that consult is free. Visit WestburyAcupuncture.com to learn more or call (516)500-8281 to schedule today.
BHS inducts members into Thespian Society
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New ITS member Charlie Majewski performs “I’m Not Afraid of Anything” from “Songs for a New World.”
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On May 26, Bethpage High School welcomed nine new members into its chapter of the International Thespian Society (ITS).
The ceremony opened with a warm welcome from Mr. Brent Chiarello, Director of Fine and Performing Arts, who spoke about the importance of the arts in education and applauded the students for their hard work and creativity. Mr. Zach Levy, ITS faculty advisor, followed with heartfelt remarks about the students' commitment to the school's theatre program, both onstage and behind the scenes.
The event continued with reflections from Ben MacielSeidman (chapter president) and Amanda Schneider (chapter vice president), who discussed the International Thespian Society's history and mission. Their remarks were followed by a candle-lighting ceremony, during which each officer lit a candle symbolizing one of the core ITS values.
Interspersed throughout the ceremony were live performances by Allyson Yalbuzdag, Stacy Martinez, Charlie Majewski and Amanda Schneider.
The highlight of the ceremo-
ny was the formal induction of the chapter's new members. Each student was called to the stage, presented with a certificate, and invited to take the official ITS pledge, committing to uphold the society's ideals and continue their growth as theater artists. The newly inducted members are Leanne Alejandrino, Anthony Cataldi, Lily Ciccotto, Micah Lambert, Charlie Majewski, Brennan Muller, Aiden McShaneRussell, Rylie Petruskie and Caitlynn Rivas.
Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
New inductees gather with continuing members following the ceremony.
2026 Hicksville Memorial Day Parade
ment, Grand Marshal Ex Chief Gerard O’Brien - Hicksville Fire Department - US Navy, Honorary Grand Marshal Frank Guarasci - US Army - Vietnam War, Honorary Grand Marshal Joe Dubon - US Marine - Vietnam War, Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker.
The invited guests listed in the parade-brochure were: Tom SuozziUS Congress, Steve Rhoads - NY State Senator, Jake Blumencranz - NY State Assembly, Bruce Blakeman - Nassau County Executive, Rose Walker - Nassau County Legislator. From Town of Oyster Bay: Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Tax Receiver Jeffry Pravato, Town Clerk Richard Lamarca, From the Town Council: Laura Maier, Vicki Walsh, Thomas Hand, Steve Labriola, Andrew Monteleone, Louis Imbroto. From the Hicksville School District: Superintendent Dr. Ted Fulton, Board of Education President Annette Beiner.
The marching groups represented numerous Hicksville community organizations including veterans, churches and schools. Among others, the following organizations were listed to march: Hicksville Fire Department, New York State Police, Nassau County Fire Marshals, Hicksville Water District, St. Ignatius Loyola Roman Catholic Church, Trinity Lutheran Church, Holy Family Church, Hicksville High School, Hicksville Middle School,
Burns Avenue School, Dutch Lane School, East Street School, Lee Avenue School, Old Country Road School, Woodland Ave School, Hicksville Gregory Museum, Hicksville Historical Society, Northwest Civic Association of Hicksville, Hicksville Gardens Civic Association, Hicksville American Soccer Club, Hicksville Baseball Association.
This year, the ceremony was performed inside the auditorium of the Hicksville Middle School and the opening prayer was by Father Christopher Sullivan - Pastor Holy Family Church - Chaplin Hicksville Fire Department. The Principle Speaker, Rose Marie Walker, emphasized that is very important to remember the forty Hicksville Heroes, who sacrificed their lives during World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and Iraq War. She mentioned that Kevin Kolm, who used to attend the schools in Hicksville and play with his friends for many years, until he was called to serve in the Iraq War, where he gave his live fighting for his country.
Many thanks should be credited to the organizing committee of the Memorial Day Parade, which was as follows: 1st Assistant Chief Michael Murphy, Ex Chief Gerard O’Brien, Ex Chief Karl Schweitzer, Honorary Chief Dennis Mulligan, Honorary Chief Gary Fippinger, Ex Captain Gregory Doerfein, Lt Michael Cimino, Nassau County Legislator - Rose Marie Walker.
Officers and Members of “Charles Wagner Post” at starting point of the parade. Among them is Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor JosephSaladino (second from left). They are expressing their pride for our country, the United States of America.
(Photo
Baymen's memorial
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clams and oysters in the waters, providing one of the last locally gathered food supplies in our area – and their work is full of risk.”
The Supervisor unveiled the monument alongside the family of Michael Kennedy, who lost his life as a baymen on the waters of the Long Island Sound, as well as members of the Baymen’s Heritage Association, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder,
local officials, the artist who created the monument, several local baymen, representatives from the Joel Foundation, and acclaimed performing artist Mike DelGuidice.
Members of the Baymen’s Heritage Association raised funds for the project, which included a large donation from local musician Billy Joel. The memorial honors the Town’s Baymen and those who have lost their lives to the demanding profession.
Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker was the Principle Speaker of the Memorial Day Parade 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Hicksville Historical Society/Michael Christodoulou)
courtesy of the Hicksville Historical Society/Michael Christodoulou)
The Hicksville Historical Society marching in the Memorial Parade. From left to right: Richard Althaus - President of Hicksville Historical Society, Michael Christodoulou - Recording Secretary of Hicksville Historical Society, and Robert StarkHicksville longtime resident. (Photo courtesy of Robert Stark)
This year the ceremony was performed in the auditorium of the Middle School. (Photo courtesy of the Hicksville Historical Society/Michael Christodoulou)
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Solar Eclipse. Aurora Borealis. Dark Skies. Where to Find Astronomical! Experiences
BY KAREN RUBIN
The Solar Eclipse that will pass over the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Atlantic Ocean, northern Spain and the tip of northeastern Portugal on August 12, 2026 may well prove more spectacular than the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse which crossed North America.
If you felt left out of the opportunity to experience it (most programs are sold out or wait-listed), National Trust Tours was still taking reservations for a Mediterranean cruise on the elegant small ship La Belle des Océans, guided by astrophysicist Dr. Sarah Rugheimer and Allan I Carswell, Chair at York University (https://nationaltrusttours. com/tour/2026-solar-eclipse-cruise-totality-in-the-mediterranean/)
While most 2026 Solar Eclipse programs are sold out or waitlisted, you may still find some availability at these sites:
National Eclipse has published a compendium of solar eclipse tours, ( https://nationaleclipse.com/ events/2026-total-solar-eclipse-tours. html)
Another excellent source to find and book tours is tourradar.com, 833-895-6770, https://www.tourradar. com/i/western-europe-solar-eclipse Road Scholar, a not-for-profit leader in educational travel for older adults, is already looking to 2027, launching two new eclipse trips in Portugal and Spain in addition to its Egypt Eclipse trip to experience “The Eclipse of the Century,” in August, 2027.
Astronomy enthusiasts should also squeeze in visits north to chase the Aurora Borealis, while the current solar maximum is in its final phase and not expected again until the mid-2030s, Road Scholars has trips
to Manitoba, Iceland, and Norway, where RoadScholar is featuring a 15-day “Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle: A Journey Along Coastal Norway,” (https://www.roadscholar.org/find-an-adventure/23067/ Astronomy-Above-the-Arctic-CircleA-Journey-Along-Coastal-Norway/).
Outside of eclipses and solar maximums, the sky can best be explored in Dark Sky Parks and Dark Sky
Mammoth Hot Springs one of the places in Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming, offering some of the best Dark Skies viewing (photo: Cody Yellowstone).
Top US Dark Skies Hotspots for Stargazing
While interest in seeing meteor showers and celestial events is skyrocketing, 80 percent of Americans live in places that can no longer see the Milky Way, and almost all of us live under light-polluted skies. With this in mind, SpinBlitz.com commissioned a study analyzing light pollution, elevation, and other metrics to produce
Reserves and Parks, from the Grand Canyon and Big Bend National Park to New Zealand
Many Road Scholar programs feature “Star Parties”, study the night sky together with an astronomy expert, including: Grand Canyon, White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Rancho de la Osa in Tucson, Terlingua (awarded the “Dark Night Skies Award”), Death Valley, Glacier National Park, Big Bend National Park, Penn State, and New Zealand
Nighttime astronomy experiences are also included on Road Scholar’s Grandparent and Family Programs at White Stallion Ranch and Panama. Road Scholar, 800-454-5768, www. roadscholar.org
a list of the darkest night sky hotspots in the U.S. for stargazing enthusiasts: Canyonlands National Park, Utah, designated as a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, offers some of the darkest skies in the US, with the possibility of witnessing up to 15,000 stars on a clear night and The Milky Way is visible in detail. The park’s 6,100 ft elevation and average annual temperature of 48.6°F provide crisp, clear viewing conditions. Utah’s commitment to preserving dark skies is unparalleled, with over two dozen International Dark Sky Places, including five national parks and nine state parks, making it a leader in astro-tourism.
There may still be opportunities to see the solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, is where you can observe 4,000 stars and the Milky Way stretching across the sky. The park’s high elevation of 6,700 feet and average annual temperature of 42°F contribute to clear, crisp nights ideal for skywatching.
Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming top noctourism choices: UXU Ranch, Bill Cody Ranch, Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park, Pahaska Tepee, Cody Trout Ranch Camp – RV & Tipi Park, Pure Heart Retreat, Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway Chief Joseph Scenic Byway
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado , certified Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, certified as an International Dark Sky Park, boasts a high elevation of 6,800 feet and average annual temperature of 45°F, dry air, minimal light interference and expansive vistas - optimal viewing conditions to be immersed in the Milky Way.
Other top U.S. Dark Skies places: Crater Lake National Park, Oregon; Big Bend National Park, Texas; Badlands National Park, South Dakota; Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona; Black Mesa State Park, Oklahoma; and Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania,
Finding La Superba in the Night Sky
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
WEEK OF JUNE 14-20, 2026
The universe is a colorful place, but stargazers are often frustrated when they cannot see the glorious colors that appear in celestial photographs.
These are all quite real, so why are we unable to see them?
One reason is that the color receptors of the human eye (the cones) don’t respond well under faint light. They need a significant amount of energy falling on them to become active. You can prove this to yourself by trying to see colors around you in a dark movie theater. Sure, those on the screen are vibrant -that’s some pretty bright light hitting your eyes -- but colors throughout the dim theater appear completely muted.
The second reason that astronomical photographs show beautiful colors is that camera detectors are not affected by human physiology. They can “see” colors from even the faintest of light. This is important because these colors tell us a lot about the physical and chemical properties of celestial objects.
This doesn’t mean you can’t see color in the night sky; it just means that you’ll need to find bright stars to improve your chances.
One of the brightest shines high in the eastern sky after dark this week: Arcturus. Follow the handle of the Big Dipper away from its bowl, and you’ll soon encounter this star. If you have good color vision, you may notice that Arcturus shines with a yellow-orange light that indicates a temperature of about 7,200 F.
Now look lower toward the northeastern sky. There you’ll find Vega, a nearly white star that burns
Y Canum Venaticorum, aka La Superba (“the magnificent”), will be visible after dark this week.
considerably hotter than Arcturus -- about 17,000 F. Very low in the southeast after dark, you’ll find a
Chew on This
star even more orange than Arcturus. This is Antares, the brightest in the constellation of Scorpius, glowing with a temperature of “only” 6,100 F.
Aim binoculars or a small telescope toward these stars, and their colors will appear to pop. This is because the optics gather much more light than your eyes, and this helps to stimulate your color receptors.
Now if you’d like to see an intensely red star, you’ll need to cast your gaze high overhead. Here you’ll find a star that astronomers know as Y Canum Venaticorum. Most stargazers just call it La Superba (the magnificent), so named by the mid-19th century astronomer Father Angelo Secchi.
To locate it, you’ll need to start at the Big Dipper; just above it appear the two most prominent stars of Canes Venatici, the hunting dogs. About two-thirds of the way between the bend of the Dipper’s handle (Mizar) and the westernmost star of Canes Venatici (Chara) lies a very faint star -- one you may not be able to spot with your eyes alone from near the lights of a city.
What makes this star unique is that it’s what astronomers call a carbon star, one of the few visible to the unaided eye. Yes, it’s a giant star like Arcturus, and it’s also nearing its death, but, unlike “normal” such aging stars, La Superba has accumulated more carbon compounds in its outer atmosphere.
Find this faint star and aim binoculars or a small telescope toward it. I promise you’ll be delighted by what you see.
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
When I was a kid, we had a Siberian husky named Sasha. My dad decided on a Siberian husky because he wanted a dog that had blue eyes like he did. Not that he’s shallow or anything. Sasha was a chewer. He wasn’t just a dog toy chewer or bone chewer. Sasha was an indiscriminate chewer and was so good at chewing that he could have competed professionally in a national chew competition. He chewed the leg off the kitchen table, chewed up the seats on the five kitchen chairs, chewed up a chunk of the linoleum kitchen floor, and chewed the arm off the living room sofa, a third of an oriental rug, and an entire rattan bookcase. He chewed the seat off the downstairs toilet and, finally, knocked the bathroom door down, split it in half and chewed that too.
Needless to say, Sasha did not stick around too long.
Before we got Sasha, we had a golden retriever named Honey. Honey was not a chewer. Honey was a licker. Big difference. With a chewer, your things get destroyed. With a licker, your things stay intact but get so covered with drool that you don’t want to touch them without donning a hazmat suit.
When I grew up and had my own family, we got a retriever named Riley. Riley was also a chewer. In his lifetime, he chewed up several stuffed animals, an Ugg boot, a ball of knitting yarn, and an astonishing assortment of our family’s underwear. Riley, however, didn’t hold a candle to our real chewer: our pet chinchilla, Henry. Henry chewed his way through a lamp cord, a clock cord, a backpack and a plastic folder with the homework inside, all from within his cage. Try telling your teacher your chinchilla ate your homework and see what response you get.
Now we have another golden retriever named Bowie. Bowie is a licker.
Bowie will come over to you and, by way of a greeting, lick your hand, your pants, your shoe or really anything else he can get his tongue on. Sometimes he will pass through a doorway and lick that for good measure. His favorite licking spot, though, is the glass backdoor. Nothing says “I keep a clean house” like a display of dog tongue streaks all over your glass door.
I guess I should be grateful that Bowie is not a chewer. I’ve heard of dogs that have chewed and ingested shoes, toys, cellphones and even an Xbox controller. In the case of the cellphone, rumor has it that the phone actually went down in one piece, and the owner realized what had happened to it when it started to ring.
Fortunately, the dog was OK and, shockingly, the phone still worked.
But I’m not sure I would want that particular phone back.
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 2026 CREATORS.COM
LOST IN SUBURBIA
The Renovation Regrets Homeowners Keep Repeating
Home renovation shows make remodeling look easy. In less than an hour, a dated kitchen becomes a magazine-worthy masterpiece, a cramped bathroom transforms into a spa retreat, and a tired living room emerges as a designer showcase. The reality, however, is often far less glamorous.
Every year, millions of homeowners invest significant time and money into improving their homes. While many renovations ultimately enhance comfort, functionality, and property value, a surprising number leave homeowners wishing they had made different choices. In fact, my conversations with homeowners often reveal a common theme: the same renovation mistakes tend to repeat themselves again, and again.
The projects may differ, the budgets may vary, and the homes may be decades apart in age, but the regrets are remarkably similar.
Chasing Trends Instead of Timelessness
One of the most common renovation regrets stems from designing for today’s trend rather than tomorrow’s lifestyle.
Every decade has its defining design fads. At one point, it was dark granite counter-tops. Then came gray everything. Open shelving replaced upper cabinets. Barn doors appeared in nearly every room. Bold geometric tiles dominated bathrooms.
The problem is that trends rarely remain fashionable for long.
Homeowners often spend thousands creating spaces that look current today only to discover that the design feels outdated five years later. While trends can provide inspiration, many homeowners later wish they had chosen more timeless materials and finishes that would age gracefully.
The most successful renovations tend to balance contemporary style with long-term practicality.
Underestimating the Budget
Few renovation regrets are as universal as spending more than expected.
Many homeowners begin projects with carefully calculated budgets only to encounter surprises once walls are opened or construction begins. Hidden plumbing issues, outdated electrical systems, structural repairs, permit requirements, and material cost increases can quickly inflate expenses.
In many cases, homeowners exhaust their budget before completing all the desired improvements, forcing them to postpone key features or settle for lower-quality finishes.
Experienced contractors often recommend setting aside a contingency
fund of at least 10% to 20% beyond the original estimate. Yet many homeowners skip this step and find themselves financially stretched when unexpected costs arise.
Going Too Cheap on Important Items
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
Ironically, overspending is not the only financial mistake homeowners regret.
Many also regret trying to save money in the wrong places.
When budgets tighten, homeowners frequently choose lower-cost flooring, appliances, cabinets, windows, or fixtures. While the savings may seem substantial at the time, these decisions often lead to disappointment later.
Floors wear out faster. Appliances require replacement sooner. Cabinets show signs of aging more quickly.
Years later, homeowners frequently conclude that they should have invested slightly more upfront for products that would provide better durability and performance over the long term.
Removing Too Much Storage
Open-concept living remains popular, but many homeowners have learned that openness sometimes comes at a cost.
In pursuit of larger spaces and cleaner aesthetics, homeowners often eliminate closets, cabinets, pantries, and built-in storage areas.
The result may look beautiful immediately after renovation, particularly when rooms are staged with minimal furniture and carefully curated décor.
But real life generates clutter.
Holiday decorations, cleaning supplies, sports equipment, kitchen appliances, seasonal clothing, and countless everyday items require storage space. Many homeowners eventually realize that they sacrificed functionality for appearance.
Storage may not be exciting, but its value becomes apparent every single day.
Ignoring Future Needs
One of the biggest renovation mistakes occurs when homeowners design exclusively for their current circumstances.
A young couple may not consider future children. Empty nesters may overlook aging-in-place features. Families may underestimate changing work-from-home needs.
The pandemic dramatically illustrated how quickly household requirements can change. Dining rooms
became offices. Guest rooms became classrooms. Basements became gyms.
Homeowners often regret renovations that were able to solve today’s problem without considering tomorrow’s possibilities.
Flexible spaces tend to provide the greatest longterm satisfaction because they can adapt as lifestyles evolve.
Prioritizing Appearance Over Function
Beautiful spaces attract attention, but functional spaces improve daily living.
Unfortunately, many homeowners focus heavily on visual impact while overlooking how a space will actually be used.
A stunning kitchen island may impede traffic flow. A luxurious freestanding bathtub may rarely be used. Open shelving may create constant cleaning demands. Designer lighting may provide inadequate illumination.
After the excitement of the renovation fades, homeowners interact with the functionality of the space every day.
Those daily experiences often determine whether a renovation becomes a source of satisfaction or frustration.
Hiring Based Solely on Price
Choosing the lowest bid remains one of the most costly mistakes homeowners make.
Renovations are expensive, and it is natural to seek savings wherever possible. However, selecting contractors based solely on price can lead to delays, poor workmanship, communication problems, and expensive corrections.
Homeowners frequently discover that a significantly lower estimate omitted important details or relied on unrealistic assumptions.
The true cost of a renovation includes quality, reliability, craftsmanship, and accountability—not just the initial price tag.
Many renovation regrets can be traced directly to contractor selection decisions made before work even began.
Following Social Media Instead of Professional Advice
The rise of home improvement content on social media has provided homeowners with endless inspiration. Unfortunately, inspiration is not always expertise.
A design that works beautifully in a luxury custom home may not be practi-
cal in a suburban ranch. A viral remodeling trend may ignore local building codes, climate conditions, maintenance requirements, or resale considerations.
Homeowners sometimes become so focused on replicating what they see online that they overlook the unique characteristics of their own homes.
The best renovations are tailored to the property, the homeowner’s lifestyle, and the surrounding market— not simply copied from the latest social media trend. Don’t forget to consider whatever technology improvements controlled by your smart phones (leak sensors, smart refrigerators, cameras, thermostats etc.)that will add functionality and safety to your home; and that will also enhance, simplify and make your life easier and more stress-free.
Forgetting About Resale Value
Not every renovation needs to maximize resale value. After all, homeowners should enjoy the homes they live in.
However, some projects become so personalized that they significantly narrow future buyer appeal.
Highly specialized rooms, unusual layouts, extravagant luxury upgrades, and unconventional design choices can limit marketability when it comes time to sell.
Homeowners often regret investing heavily in features that future buyers neither appreciate nor value.
The most successful renovations strike a balance between personal enjoyment and broad market appeal.
The Bottom Line
Home renovation remains one of the most powerful ways homeowners can improve their living environment and increase the value of their property. Done well, a renovation can transform not only a house but also the daily experience of living in it.
Yet the lessons from countless homeowners are remarkably consistent. The greatest regrets rarely involve choosing the wrong paint color or backsplash tile. Instead, they stem from decisions made without fully considering budget realities, future needs, functionality, storage, quality, and long-term value.
A successful renovation is not necessarily the most expensive or the most dramatic. It is the one that continues to serve its owners well years after the dust settles and the contractors leave.
Before beginning the next remodeling project, homeowners may want to remember a simple truth: trends come and go, but practical decisions tend to age much better than fashionable ones. If you need any recommendations or suggestions, feel free to contact me.
Continued on page 5
The Real Story Behind Social Security Overpayments
BY TOM MARGENAU
I have seen several news stories recently that were critical of the Social Security Administration and the way the agency handles overpayments -- money sent to Social Security beneficiaries that they were not due. I’m going to address that issue in today’s column. But before I do, I’ve got to put things in perspective.
If you had read any of these news reports, you likely would come away thinking something like this. “Those dumb bureaucrats. They can’t do anything right. They are sending millions of dollars in incorrect payments to people every year!” But here is a dose of perspective you need to understand. Social Security is a $1.6 trillion per year program. And those millions of dollars in overpayments make up less than one-half of 1% of the program’s annual payout. Or to turn that around, more than 99.5% of the time, people are being paid correctly. So overpayments are a problem. But nowhere near as big a problem as sensational news stories would have you believe.
Still, millions of dollars is millions of dollars. And the Social Security overpayment problem is an issue that needs to be dealt with. Why do people get overpaid? The biggest reason has to do with a simple law that needs to be changed. More about that in a minute.
But first, let’s briefly deal with one of the issues discussed in the news stories. Once it’s been decided that someone has been overpaid, should the SSA take the money back? Some have alleged that the SSA was being too ruthless in its overpayment collection efforts.
In a nutshell, one part of the overpayment recovery rules says the incorrect benefits must be repaid if the person who got the extra money was at fault in causing the overpayment. Most people probably would agree that part of the rules makes sense. But what if the overpayment was the agency’s fault? On the one hand, you could argue that even though the SSA made a mistake, the overpaid person still got money he or she was not due and the money should be repaid. But others would argue that the government screwed up and they should write off the overpayment as a loss. The rulebook actually says that even if the overpayment was the SSA’s fault, it must be repaid IF the overpaid person can afford to repay it. And carrying out that rule can really get messy and be subject to different interpretations.
And on that issue, let me make this point. Many years ago, the SSA interpreted that part of the law much more liberally and was writing off (“waiving” is the legal term) many overpayments. And guess what? There were news stories back then critical of the agency for “wasting the taxpayers’ money” by not more aggressively collecting overpayments. So you can un-
derstand why an old civil servant like me might be inclined to throw up his hands and say: “OK, people, what do you want? Do you want us to collect these overpayments or do you want us to write them off?”
But we wouldn’t have to answer that question if a big part of the problem could be eliminated. So how do we do that? By getting rid of the major cause of overpayments: A provision of Social Security law that is rather archaically called the “annual earnings test.” It is sometimes also called the “retirement test.” (More about where those terms come from in a minute.) But I call it the Social Security earnings penalty, as I have never liked this law. Before I explain why, let me clarify what I am talking about.
The rules say that if you are a Social Security beneficiary who is under full retirement age and still working, one dollar must be deducted from your Social Security checks for every two dollars you earn over a limit that changes annually. It’s currently $24,480. (Once you reach your full retirement age, that penalty goes away.)
On the surface, the law seems pretty straightforward. You may wonder why it causes so many overpayments. Well, it’s because when you scratch beneath the surface, it is an absolute mess to administer. To illustrate, I’ll use an example.
Fred is 63, getting Social Security benefits, but takes a part-time job paying more than $24,480 annually. So he reports his anticipated earnings to his local Social Security office. They would adjust his benefits accordingly, applying the one-dollar deduction for every two dollars earned.
But then, as the year goes on, Fred ends up working a little overtime or otherwise picking up a couple of extra hours of work. He would dutifully report the increase in anticipated earnings to the Social Security people, and further adjustments would be made to his monthly retirement checks. More often than not, he’d be charged with an overpayment and be asked to return some of the Social Security funds already paid to him.
Next, let’s say Fred is laid off for a time, and so his anticipated 2026 earnings go down. Then he’d have to file yet another report with the SSA and there would be more adjustments to his benefits. And now perhaps the SSA owed him some extra money.
Eventually, once the year is over and Fred gets his W-2 form, he will make a final report of his earnings to the Social Security office, leading to yet another benefit adjustment -- usually another overpayment. And on top of that, they would ask for an estimate of his anticipated earnings for the new year, yet more adjustments would be made, and the whole vicious cycle would start over again.
And of course, Fred is not alone. Millions of Social Security beneficiaries are
under their full retirement age but working. And many of them are going through the same cycle of being either overpaid or underpaid.
I’ve always been puzzled by the earnings penalty law. From a philosophical perspective, I just don’t understand why someone should be punished if they try to work and earn a little money to supplement their Social Security benefits.
Having voiced that philosophical concern, I should point out that I know the
practicality of the law. It goes back to the very beginning of Social Security in the 1930s. Retirement benefits were intended to replace the earnings a person loses when he or she retires. Or to put that another way, a person had to retire to get “retirement” benefits. And this provision of the law was a “test” of their retirement status. (Thus, the term “retirement test.”) Initially, the law said you had to be
Continued from previous page
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
The Millennials, the Gen Zers and I
When some relatives came for dinner recently I ended up cooking some delicious beef kabobs and chicken kabobs and if I say so myself they turned out great. I’d added some onions, cherry tomatoes, green peppers and mushrooms to the skewers and let them marinate in the refrigerator for an hour before grilling them.
Toward the end I drizzled some barbecue sauce on top and when served with rice and a tossed salad, the kabobs were very tasty. My guests enjoyed the meal - and the socializing - so I called it a hit.
Then we all laughed hysterically because the inevitable generation gap came up. My niece, Shannon, had popped in after work and was saying that her co-worker was telling them at lunchtime about playing her family’s vinyl records and the way she described the old 33, 45 and 78 records she had everyone in stitches.
Shannon made us laugh even more when she said how Connie’s mom told her about the family’s old Victrola. Eventually it was replaced by a record player and after looking over the song titles Connie chose “Surfin’ U.S.A.”
Once she plugged in the machine and set the record down, her mom showed her how to gently place the needle on the vinyl. Sure enough the sounds of “Surfin’ U.S.A.” by the Beach Boys filled the room and as Connie relayed the story, she and her mom automatically started dancing around the living room.
That made us laugh even more.
Connie noted, however, that “Surfin’ U.S.A.” was Billboard’s #1 song in 1963. To this day there are lots of Beach Boys fans out there. Connie had to admit the sound quality was good so she wondered why Victrolas were phased out. Her mom explained that in time cassette tapes, CDs and digital music came along so out with the old and in with the new.
I told Shannon that some of us call those old dinosaur machines “record players” and she laughed because her mom still calls them Victrolas. There’s an example of the generation gap, I said. Right there. We laughed but knew it was true.
In the 1960s and ‘70s we didn’t have digital music or the Walkman. That was portable - wow! What a concept. That era was by and large all analog audio technology. In addition to vinyl records we had 8-track cartridges and cassette tapes.
Compared to today it was bulky and awkward but we had our chance to listen to our favorite singers - the Beatles, the Supremes, Neil Young, David Bowie and more. Call me old fashioned but as long as we could play our tunes - or blast them - we were happy.
Shannon’s cousin, Jake, chimed in and said he was surprised to learn that Keurig machines haven’t been around all that long. His dad told him about the older percolators his parents used and in a pinch they drank instant coffee.
I told Jake that it’s true, Keurig machines haven’t been around forever. They weren’t always a fixture on our kitchen counters just waiting for one of us to approach, pop in a K-Cup pod and
brew a piping hot cup of coffee.
When I was a kid my parents brewed coffee in a percolator just like Jake’s parents and depending on which family you were in, some people made the coffee on top of the strove. Others used an electric percolator.
And then there is the drip coffee method - that’s where hot water is poured over coffee grounds that are in a filter and drips into a carafe. It took a few minutes for the coffee to go through and brew but sure enough it tasted good. You just needed a little patience for it to finish. Back then it wasn’t a matter of “push a button and presto, here’s a nice, fresh cup of coffee.”
That newfangled invention, the Keurig machine, came out for residential use around 2007-2008 and once those K-Cup pods became available in supermarkets in 2008, the word Keurig became a household name. coffee is the #1 beverage in the U.S. and people like the convenience of K-Cups.
My feeling is it’s pretty cool to go into my kitchen, turn on the Keurig machine and a minute later having a nice cup of joe ready to enjoy.
Shannon is a Millennial and Jake is a Gen Zer. They are similar in that they both are socially and environmentally conscious and when it comes to using computers and social media, they’re very adept with those things. They’re also very comfortable using this “newer technology” and this Baby Boomer is envious at times.
Generalities about the different generations don’t always hold true but I’ve noticed that Shannon is committed to working long hours at her career
whereas Jake seeks more of a work-life balance. Sometimes I hear them talking about how the older generations spend too much time at work and commuting there believing that loyalty to the job would end up paying off but it doesn’t always turn out that way.
During my kabob dinner with relatives I overheard Shannon and Jake saying this and their cousin (another nephew of mine), Patrick, started singing the Allman Brothers’ “Ramblin’ Man.” Just to be obtuse. He’s the funny man in my family. Some of the words go:
“Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man Tryin’ to make a livin’ and doin’ the best I can
And when it’s time for leavin’, I hope you’ll understand
That I was born a ramblin’ man…” That song came out in 1973 and I joined Patrick in singing it because I knew most of the Allman Brothers’ songs of that era. Shannon and Jake looked at the two of us like we were crazy but a few others started singing, too. It’s a peppy song so it was a fun time. When we finished singing we asked Patrick what he had in mind and he said he doesn’t want to be pinned down to a 9-5 job. He wants to be an entrepreneur. Jake said, “I thought you like your job” and I added, “He’s been watching too many episodes of ‘Shark Tank.’ Sounds like the entrepreneurial bug has caught up to him. Patrick wants to be his own boss.”
Continued from previous page
completely retired. But over the years, Congress eased up on the restrictive nature of the original law. They said people over FRA could work full-time and get benefits. But they kept the messy earnings penalty for anyone under FRA. Why? I’m not sure. But get rid of that penalty and you will get rid of many millions of dollars in overpayments every year.
If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas. margenau@comcast.net.
COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM
The Renovation Regrets Homeowners Keep Repeating
Continued from page 3
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate. 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).
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and
those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search 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
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Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library
Friday, June 12
10:30 a.m.: Giggles and Grooves with Rebecca (Ages 1–5) - Join Ms. Rebecca from Giggles and Grooves for a morning of singing, dancing, and playing! In this class, children will listen to the guitar and explore different instruments, movement toys, puppets, parachute and bubbles. Let’s make music together!
4:00 p.m.: Craft Corner (Grades K–3) - Children will make a fun craft with the help of our teen volunteers.
Saturday, June 13
10:30 a.m.: Jump for Joy (Ages 18 Months to 5 Years) - Join us for a lively program of music and group activities for you and your child.
1:00 p.m.: Summer Reading Kickoff - Registration begins at our Summer Reading Kickoff! We’re planning a fun event to start our Summer Reading Programs for children, teens and adults. Come and join in on the festivities! Enter raffles, enjoy bubbles, sand art, ice cream and, a visit from a special guest, and more. You won’t want to miss it! A valid Jericho Library card is required!
Sunday, June 14
2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: The American Revolution’s “The Battle of Long Island” with Robert Ernest Hubbard, Co-hosted with the Nassau County Historical Society - August 27, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Long Island, the largest battle of the American Revolution and the first major engagement after the Declaration of Independence. Though outnumbered, George Washington saved his army with a daring escape from Brooklyn to Manhattan.The speaker, Robert Ernest Hubbard, is a retired professor and biographer of Generals Israel Putnam and Thomas Mifflin.
Monday, June 15
10:00 a.m.: Teens: Take & Make: Dino Terrarium Night Lights - Create a glowing prehistoric world with a DIY Dinosaur Terrarium Night Light! Register for a kit and it will be ready for pickup on Monday, June 15. One kit per family. Pick up your kit at the Reference Desk on the 2nd floor.
10:30 a.m.: Sensational Playtime
(Ages 18 Months to 3 Years) - This is a play-based program for early childhood designed with occupational therapy objectives in mind. It will focus on developmental motor and social skills to foster the emerging skills for this age group.
2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: Art Lecture: An Album of Treasured American Art with Mary Maguire - From Edward Hick’s “Peaceable Kingdom” to Jasper John’s “Red, White and Blue”, we will follow the path of American art for 250 glorious years. Along the way, we will pause to celebrate the works of Copley, Homer, Sargent, Cole, Hopper, O’Keefe, Rockwell and many others who so magically captured the spirit and beauty of America on canvass.
Tuesday, June 16
10:30 a.m.: Mandarin Bilingual Story Time (Ages 18 months–5 Years)Join us for a 30-minute program that consists of nursery rhymes, puppets, songs, stories, and movements in English and Mandarin Chinese. Does not require a Mandarin background.
7:00 p.m.: Riding Out Market Volatility: Retirement Investment Solutions with New York Life Insurance Company - This seminar is geared towards individuals who are currently planning their retirement and contributing/have a desire to start contributions, those who are currently in retirement looking for some more information on investment management within their current plans, and those who are concerned with the economic uncertainty of the market. Some of the topics we will cover are:
• How to maintain a long-term approach to investing, especially within retirement products
• Keeping volatility in perspective
• How to turn volatility into an opportunity
Wednesday, June 17
10:30 a.m.: Preschool Readiness (18 Months-5 Years) - A fun and fastpaced school readiness program that focuses on fine and gross motor development, literacy skills, and socialization.
6:00 p.m.: Unearth the Magic Within: Story & Craft (Ages 6–9 Years) - We’re digging deep into the
roots of nature and ourselves! Join us as we read Corinna Luyken’s “The Tree in Me”, a beautiful exploration of the strength we share in the world around us. After the story, we will "unearth" our own creativity by using our colorful fingerprints to paint a beautiful, unique tree!
6:30 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Silver Scribblers: Creative Writing Workshop - Everyone has a story to tell -what’s yours? Join Silver Scribblers, the library’s creative writing group designed especially for older adults who love words, memories, and imagination. Whether you’re jotting down family stories, crafting poetry, or exploring new forms of writing, this friendly group offers encouragement, inspiration, and a welcoming space to share your voice.
7:00 p.m.: Art Workshop with the Village Artist (Grades 1–6) - Learn art skills using different mediums and materials. No prior art experience needed!
Thursday, June 18
10:00 a.m.: Stepping Stones to Milestones (Ages 18–28 Months) Come join Miss Renee and Miss Amy for an adventure in Language, Learning and FUN! Creative activities will focus on helping your child as they venture down the path toward age appropriate milestones.
11:00 a.m.: Stepping Stones to Milestones (Ages 29–47 Months)Come join Miss Renee, a literary specialist, and Miss Amy, a former speech and language pathologist, for an adventure in Language, Learning and FUN! Creative activities will focus on helping your child as they venture down the path toward age appropriate milestones.
2:00 p.m.: Adult Summer Reading Kickoff: Title Swap, America @ 250 Reads - Join us as we celebrate America at 250 with recommended Americanthemed reads. Light refreshments will be served. Let’s make this summer a season of great reading and shared goals!
4:00 p.m.: Grandmaster Style Tai Chi 101 (Grades 3–5) - This class will trace back the kung fu before tai chi. Children will come away with a deeper understanding and stronger foundation in tai chi and its true beauty. Especially
good for children in grades 3 through 5. Friday, June 19
10:30 a.m.: Free Health Screenings with the St. Francis Outreach BusOpen to adults 18 and older -- no appointment needed. Services include: Brief cardiac history review, Blood pressure check, Simple blood test for cholesterol and diabetes, and Patient education and referrals. Take a step toward better health -- stop by for your free screening!
11:00 a.m.: Chef Rob: Chicken Fajita Penne Pasta - In this cooking demonstration, learn how to make a chicken fajita penne pasta skillet with Chef Rob. Learn a new dinner for your family that you can make on the busiest of nights. Bring your appetite! $5.00 per person; non-refundable.
11:00 a.m.: Juneteenth Storytime and Craft (Grades K–3) - Join us for a very special storytime where children will enjoy a themed read-aloud followed by a hands-on craft inspired by the day.
1:00 p.m.: Teens: Chicken Fajita Penne Pasta - Join Chef Rob for a fun cooking demo where you’ll learn how to make a delicious chicken fajita penne pasta skillet! This easy, flavorful dinner is perfect for busy nights and great for sharing with your family. Come hungry and ready to cook!
1:00 p.m.: Game Day! (Grades K–6)Have fun with your friends playing board games in the children's room! We will have a variety of games available. Stop in between 1:00 and 5:00 p.m. to play - no registration required!
2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Great Performers: Bob Fosse: All that Jazz with Marc Courtade - Bob Fosse transformed dance in Broadway musicals, becoming one of the 20th century’s most influential choreographers and directors. With partner Gwen Verdon helping bring his vision to life, Fosse created a bold, unmistakable style defined by tilted bowler hats, jazz hands, turnedin knees, shoulder rolls, and splayed fingers. This look at his work highlights the talent and innovation behind his legendary choreography.
Register for all events at https:// www.jericholibrary.org/events/month Non-residents may register beginning 2 weeks before each program.
HHS celebrates new EMT program
Happy 100th birthday
Hicksville High School is proud to celebrate the success of its inaugural Emergency Medical Technician program, launched this school year in partnership with the Hicksville Fire Department and the Nassau County EMS Academy. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and commitment, all 10 students selected for the first cohort successfully completed the rigorous training program.
The program was established to provide students with hands-on medical training while instilling the core values of service, leadership, teamwork and community responsibility. Following a highly competitive selection process, 10 outstanding students were chosen to participate in the district’s first EMT course, which met every Monday and Wednesday after school through May.
Throughout the program, students engaged in intensive instruction aligned with New York State Department of Health protocols, gaining expertise in patient assessment, CPR and basic life support, trauma care, emergency response procedures and other critical lifesaving skills. Beyond technical training, students developed the confidence, professionalism and decision-making abilities necessary to respond effectively in real-world emergency situations.
A key figure in the program’
cess was Ms. Dina Ditrano, a dedicated Hicksville educator of 32 years and volunteer EMT, who played an integral role in overseeing and supporting the initiative. Working alongside instructor Mr. Michael Finneran, students were challenged to meet the demands of professional EMT training while preparing for certification and future careers in health care, emergency services, public safety and related fields.
“This program represents a tremendous opportunity for our students to gain meaningful, career-ready experience while learning skills that can truly save lives,” said Ms. Ditrano. “The commitment demonstrated by this inaugural class has been extraordinary.”
The EMT program was made possible through the generous support of the Hicksville Fire Department, which fully covered tuition and supply costs for all participants. Their investment reflects a strong commitment to youth education, public safety and the future of emergency medical services within the community.
The success of the inaugural cohort marks an important milestone for Hicksville High School and highlights the value of community partnerships in expanding educational opportunities for students.
Girl Scout Cookie sale
Mr. Finneran, Jasmeet Kaur, Nandini Bali, Gabrielle Howell, Mariel Mercado, Shelby Fraser, Sahej Lehal, Joel Calle, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mrs. Ditrano and Sara Bakhteri. Not pictured: Crisbel Verdugo-Ortiz.
Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools
Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray (right) congratulated Stephanie Lombino as she celebrated her 100th birthday at the Atria Levittown.
Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti stopped by Fred’s Deli in Levittown to support the Girl Scout Troop 3226 Cookie Sale on March 21.
