Bethpage Newsgram (1/10/20)

SERVING BETHPAGE, OLD BETHPAGE, AND PLAINVIEW

HOUR OF CODE

Fifth grade students at Central Boulevard School in Bethpage participated in the annual Hour of Code event on December 17th. Students coded a challenge set in the world of Minecraft. Photo courtesy Bethpage Schools

Gunshot leads to 4-car accident

Nassau County Police reported that a vehicle being used to rush a gunshot victim to the hospital was involved in a four vehicle accident in Plainview on Thursday, January 2 at 7 p.m.

According to police, while inside a Plainview home, a 25-year-old male, after cleaning his handgun, is believed to have accidentally discharged the weapon, striking a 17-yearold friend of his stepbrother in the neck. As a result of the inci-

dent, all three entered a vehicle and proceeded to respond to an area hospital. While traveling northbound on Plainview Road at the intersection of Old Country Road, the trio became involved in a 4 car multi-vehicle accident, one of whom being an off-duty Nassau County police officer.

The officer, who sustained minor injuries, called 911 and attended to the injured parties involved in the accident.

Upon police and ambulance

arrival, four injured victims, including the officer, were taken to area hospitals for treatment of what appears to be non-life-threatening injuries. The shooting victim was listed in serious but stable condition.

Police say that the handgun owner was not licensed, and he has been charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th Degree.

Levittown resident receives new roof from vets program

BY GARY SIMEONE

It was a great holiday surprise for a Levittown man and former United States veteran who received a new roof on his home as part of a Nassau County veteran's program. 76-yearold James Brancale received the new roof on his Anchor Lane home just in time for Christmas through the program, which is sponsored by Habitat for Humanity International.

“Every time it rained, there were leaks everywhere. I couldn’t sleep at night,” said  Brancale who served in the US Army from 1964 to 1966.  “Other than the birth of my children, this is probably the best thing I’ve ever gotten.”

Myrnissa Stone-Sumair, executive director of Habitat for Humanity’s Nassau County office, said that her office received a call in July of last year from the Town of Hempstead regarding the issues with Brancale’s roof.

“He had called the Town first and was told they had no programs to help veterans dealing with roof leaks on their homes,” said Stone-Sumair. “Subsequently, they got in touch with me and I went out to inspect the leaks, which turned out to be a pretty serious problem.”

She said Brancale, who had been dealing with the roof leaks for over six months, had placed buckets lined with aluminum foil all over his home to catch the water leaking down from the roof.

“I made an appointment to have his windows sills inspected, which were in pretty bad shape, and then reached out to the Owens Corning company, who is a partner in Habit International’s programs,” said Stone-Sumair.

The program helps to repair roofing and insulation problems free of cost for veterans who can demonstrate that they are unable to pay for the labor and materials needed for the job.

Habitat for Humanity was able to get Brancale pre-approved for the program and found a local vendor, Quality Homes USA in Westbury, to install the new roof with Christmas lights included.

“The whole pre-approval process took a while, and Mr. Brancale and his daughter called multiple times during the wait as we sorted through potential vendors,” said Stone-Su-

See page 8

Man assaulted in Plainview burglary

Nassau County Police arrested a Massapequa Park woman for allegedly hitting a homeowner in the head with a golf club during a attempted burglary.

According to police, Taylor Johnson, 27, used a golf club to break windows to a residence on Sunrise Street in Plainview at 4 p.m. on Sunday, January 6.  Police say that when the homeowner confronted Johnson, she hit the 52-year-old male victim in the

head with the club, causing an abrasion, pain and swelling. Upon police arrival, the defendant was taken into custody without incident. The victim was treated for his injuries at the scene.

Taylor Johnson is charged with Attempted Burglary 1st Degree, Assault 2nd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th Degree.

Advertise your professional services in our Professional Guide! Call 294-8900 for rates and info.

Donation to family of fallen Nassau police officer

Alex Barnuch of David Lerner Associates and GLIRC Executive Director Sue Fitzpatrick present the check to Eddie Sholl’s good friend NCPD Lt. Mayser Aljader, while NCPD Sgt. Brian McDermott, NCPD Officer Kevin Glenn, NCPD Officer Rick Rothwell, NCPD Lt. Tim Cosgrove, NCPD Ret. Inspector John Gisondi, Port Authority PD Officer Maysam Aljidar, Officer Dan Dugan & Lt. Greg Meyers look on with approval.

The Greater Long Island Running Club and David Lerner Associates were pleased to present a check in the amount of $2500 to benefit the family of Nassau County Police Department Sgt. Edward L. Scholl at a fundraiser held at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh on January 4.

Sgt. Sholl, 46, a resident of Plainview who grew up in Levittown, died after being electrocuted Friday, Aug. 16, while repairing a washing machine at his home.

Sholl served as an instructor at the Nassau County Police Academy. He began his career in law enforcement in 1993 with the New York City Police Department were he worked until 2005 when he joined the Nassau County Police.

The $2,500 is still another use of the proceeds of the annual David Lerner Associates Long Island Police Appreciation 5K Run at Eisenhower Park, which this year will be held on Thursday evening, June 4.

Do you have a ser vice to adver tise? Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.

Bethpage meat market closes after 40 years of service

BY GARY SIMEONE

It is the end of an era for a longtime Bethpage store as Sikorski Meat Market closed last week after 40 years of service in the community. The market, which was owned by Jim and Pat Sikorski, was located at 548 Central Avenue in Bethpage.

Sikorski Meat Market originally opened its location in Bethpage in 1993, but the Sikorskis’ history of selling Polish cold cuts and groceries on Long Island dates back to the mid 1970s.

Sikorski said that he and his wife started as vendors at the original Nassau Farmer’s Market on Hicksville Road in Bethpage.

“We first started operating in 1976 and a decade after that, we moved our business to the Tri-County Flea Market in Levittown,” said Sikorski. “After that, we moved back to our hometown of Bethpage to open our own storefront.”

The market is renowned for its selection of sausages and cured meats, which are purchased from a Polish smokehouse in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The couple also owned another market in Greenpoint, which closed its doors for

good in December.

Other fan favorites at the market included the kielbasas, smoked pork shoulder and a specialty sausage called a kabanosy, which is long, thin, dried out sausage.

The market was also known for many non-pork items, like their homemade pierogies, fresh babkas and doughnut selection and dried Borowicki mushrooms, which are considered to be the king of Polish mushrooms.

Anne Sullivan, a Bethpage resident, said she was sad to hear that a longtime staple in the community had closed.

“I have been a frequent shopper at Sikorski’s, and I had no idea they were closing,” said Sullivan. “I am sad to see them go because I enjoy Polish foods and I’m not sure where I’ll buy all my meat products now.”

Pat Sikorski said that she and her husband had been working for a longtime and that she knew it was time to retire.

She posted a note on the store’s website, Sikorskimeatmarket.com, and on the storefront which read ‘It has been our pleasure serving you and we thank you for your loyalty and patronage. We will miss you!’

Arrest made for weapons possession

Brittany Morgan

Nassau County Police arrested a 25-year-old woman for weapons charges on Sunday, January 5 outside a movie theater, after they allegedly found her to be in possession of a handgun, armor piercing bullets, multiple magazines, a ski mask and burglar tools.

According to detectives, Community Oriented Police Enforcement (COPE) offi-

cers on routine patrol observed a 2008 white Ford Mustang that was running idle in the parking lot of the AMC movie theater located at 3585 Hempstead Turnpike. When officers went to investigate, they found Brittany Morgan, 25, unconscious in the vehicle.  Morgan, who is said to be homeless,  awoke and allegedly made a furtive gesture with her hands. Police say she was given several commands to show her hands, to which she refused to comply. Officers were able to remove her from the vehicle at which time they allegedly observed a black handgun on the front passenger seat.

Morgan was immediately placed into police custody without further incident. Police say the handgun was found to be loaded with armor piercing bullets and upon further investigation, a large number of additional bullets, multiple magazines, ski mask and burglar tools were found in the vehicle.

Morgan is charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree, ten (10) charges of Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th Degree, Possession of Burglar Tools and Willful Defacement of a Weapon.

To qualify you must have or open any

516.209.3611 or visit www.FlushingBank.com

Star seniors recognized with Nassau Zone award

Division Avenue High School seniors Philip Konior (left) and Erin Cacciuttolo were presented with the Outstanding Physical Education Student of the Year Award. Both are pictured with President of Nassau Zone Charles Rizzuto (middle).

Seniors Joe Manfredo (right) and Nina Scanze from MacArthur High School were honored with the Outstanding Physical Education Student of the Year Award.

Levittown seniors Erin Cacciuttolo and Philip Konior from Division Avenue High School and Joe Manfredo and Nina Scanze from General Douglas MacArthur High School were recently honored with the 2019-2020 Outstanding Physical Education Student of the Year Award.

The award was presented by the Nassau Zone of New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, and students were recognized during a special awards dinner at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Each year, the Outstanding Physical Education Student of the Year Award is presented to one male and one female graduating senior from each Nassau County high school. These students exemplify outstanding scholastic ability, physical education performance and leadership qualities.

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Levittown CHAMBER

ACCOUNTANTS

Brian Cleary, CPA, PC

516-433-6442

Fred Form, Accountant 516-735-0500

Jay’s

APPLIANCES

516-796-3232

PC Richards 516-731-4422

ATTORNEYS

Law Offices of Jon Michael Probstein 516-690-9780 Nicolini, Paradise, Ferretti & Sabela

516-741-6355

Robert L. Ryan, Esquire 516-253-5529

The Galante Law Firm 516-269-9357

Brown Altman, LLP 516-222-0222 Friedman & Simon, LLP 516-932-0400

AUTO SERVICES

Center Island Autobody 516-735-2222

BAKERIES

Sweet Surrender Bake House 516-731-2424

BANKS

Bethpage Federal Credit Union 516-688-0000

HSBC 516-490-1100

Jovia Federal Credit Union 516-561-0030

Sterling National Bank 516-731-3388

BEAUTY

Melaleuca Wellness Co., 516-395-5520

Phenix Salon Suites 516-418-2801

Signature Hair Salon 516-579-2373

Pat’s Barber Shop 516-796-1953

CAR DEALERSHIPS

Levittown FORD LLC 516-719-4000

CHILDREN”S FITNESS

All Star Gymnastics 516-796-2188

CHIROPRACTIC

Nogan Chiropractic 516-520-0274

Park Ave, Chiropractic 516-433-4114

CHURCHES

St Bernard’s Roman Catholic Church 516-731-4220

CLEANING SERVICES

Merry Maids 516-931-0758

CONTRACTORS

Great Additions Construction Co 516-799-8500

LevitStyle Home Remodeling LLC 516-579-0045

DANCE STUDIOS

5-6-7-8 Dance 516-735-2266

Steppin-N-Style Dance Inc 516-796-5174

Techniques Dance Center, 516-679-0056

DENTAL CARE

Dental 365 516-597-4005

Dr Peter DeTolla, DDS 516-735-1234

Dr David Ostreicher 516-735-8315

Great Expressions 516-731-0040

Dr Gregory Seiden D D S P C 516-731-6041

Levittown Oral & Implant 516-735-8723

My Town’s Little Dentist 516-226-7337

DISABILITY SERVICES

LI Center for Independent Living 516-796-0144

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Dennis Dunne Sr , Councilman 516-812-3180

John Ferretti Jr , NC Legislature District 15 516-571-6215

Laura Gillen, TOH Supervisor 516-489-6000

John Mikulin, Assemblyman 516-228-4960

Keven Thomas, New York State Senate 516-739-1700

ENTERTAINMENT

ACC DJ Productions 516-318-7375

The Grindhouse Radio 516-308-0582

Levittown Lanes 516-731-5700

Long Island Laser Bounce 516-342-1330

The Killing Kompany Dinner Shows, Inc 212-772-2590

Mobile Flicks 2 U 516-250-8690

EYE CARE

Davis Visionworks 516-520-0286

Dr. Perry S. Mollick 516-579-5400

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Main St. Financial Group 516-579-6259

FIRE DEPARTMENT

Levittown Fire Dept 516-731-5800

FITNESS

Club Pilates East Meadow 516-744-1154

Lotus Fitness 516-513-0252

FLORIST

Petite II Florist 516-735-7000

FOOD TRUCK

Mama’s Cuban Kitchen 515-736-4688

FUNERAL HOMES

Thomas F Dalton Funeral Homes 516-796-0400

Charles J O’Shea Funeral Homes 516-731-5550

GIFTS/CRAFTS

Bob Peduzzi, Woodcrafts by Bob farmfolk162@gmail com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Melaleuca Wellness Lori McBride 516-395-5526

HEARING & SPEECH

Long Island Hearing, Inc 516-735-9191

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

A & R Technical 516-827-9570

Mac Heating & A/C 516-735-0055

Meenan 516-783-1000

INSURANCE

Liberty Mutual, Kathi Donnelly 516-953-5970

State Farm, Bob Masterson 516-826-1600

New York Life, Kevin Reilly 516-355-3907

IT SERVICES

MJN Technology Services – LLC 516-543-3170

LAWN & GARDEN SERVICES

Aries Lawn Maintenance 516-796-1736

LIBRARIES

Island Trees Public Library 516-731-2211

Levittown Public Library 516-731-5728

MARKETING/PUBLIC RELATIONS

LuCas Communications 516-735-5901

MEDIA

All Island Media 516-281-9673

Litmor Publishing 516-780-1462

Levittown Tribune 516-747-8282

Newsday Media Group 631-843-3480

MEDICAL SERVICES

ARC Urgent Care 516-346-5090

North Shore/LIJ Go Heath Urgent Care 516-558-9860

Plainview Hospital Northwell Health 516-719-3000

Levittown Family Medicine 516-226-7150

Rehabilitation Associates of Levittown 516-226-7150

TLC Companions & Supply LLC 516-719-0909

ORGANIZATIONS

Knights of Columbus Holy Innocents 516-731-9018

Levittown Community Council 516-579-2831

Levittown Historical Society 516-434-7140

Levittown Island Trees VFW Post 9592 516-579-4420

Levittown Island Trees Youth Council, Inc 516-241-3680

Levittown Kiwanis 516-731-5016

Levittown United Teachers 516-796-5660

Lions Club of Levittown lionsoflevittown@aol.com

Marco Polo Lodge #2214 Sons of Italy of America

Nassau Lionel Operating Engineers 516-735-6370

Wantagh/Levittown Volunteer Ambulance Corp 516-731-1485

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Nassau County Second Precinct 516-573-6245

PRINTERS

Minuteman Press 516-731-4892

Signarama – Hicksville 516-938-2370

REAL ESTATE

Century 21 American Homes Kathleen Bruno & Owen Kirby 516-735-9500

Century 21 American Homes Lisa Testagrose 516-735-9500

D & F Developmenyt 516-437-0900

Island Smart Home Inspection

516-242-2273

The Krug Team @ C21AM Homes 516-731-5004

Century 21 AM Homes William Dergosits 516-987-8892

The Home Buyer Learning Center 888-2-HOME LI RESTAURANTS

Dairy Queen Grill & Chill 516-719-0180

(KK Shopping

Telling our story: Dutch Lane Elementary School

Where once potato plants flourished on farmland set atop the Hempstead Plains in Hicksville, so now young minds grow to meet tomorrow’s challenges at Dutch Lane Elementary. The original, pale yellow farmhouse still stands on Stewart Avenue at the foot of the school, a testament to Hicksville’s agricultural past. When the potato blight became the scourge of Long Island’s potato farmers and President Truman banned sale of the crops, developers such as Levitt & Sons had eyes for other uses for the former potato fields. Levitt bought much of Hicksville’s farmland for suburban home development. Largely due to the suburban sprawl, “Hicksville’s population went from 8,000 in 1945-46 to 52,000 in 1962-63,” shared James Janis, the local historian who has overseen the archives at the Hicksville Library for the past 15 years. Rows of houses now grew in the abandoned potato fields.

One of four “sister” schools opened in 1952 to address Hicksville’s population boom – Burns, Dutch, Fork and Old

Country Road – Dutch Lane has a rich history of being integral to the community and holding tight to those who have passed through its doors. “One example of our deep, long lasting relationships at Dutch is our current PTA President, Mrs. Weih,” said Principal Janine Rossi. “Amazingly, the family has had someone attending the school every year since it opened its doors in 1952.”

“My mother and father actually met here,” explained PTA President Christine Weih. “Dutch is so much a part of our family’s history, it’s like being home. I walk down the hallways and see pictures of my family.” A mom of four whose youngest child currently attends Dutch, Mrs. Weih is herself from a family of six. “We haven’t gone far – we all still live here; my parents live right next door to me, and my older daughter works as a teaching assistant at Dutch.” She refers to the school as a “small cornerstone of Hicksville.”

For Principal Rossi, in her second year at Dutch, investing time in connecting with the community was her top prior-

In a combined kindergarten and second grade physical education class, Principal

As another example of the longevity of the Dutch Lane community, Mrs. Maryann Grippi, pictured here with Principal Rossi at her greeter’s station, has served the school for 35 years. “I always loved it here,” explained Mrs. Grippi. “It’s small enough to be family-oriented. It’s always been home for me.”

ity. “I spent my first year getting to know everyone. I listened a lot - building trust was an important goal for me. You can have the greatest ideas but you must first gain the community’s trust.”

The mother of two boys, Mrs. Rossi, who received degrees in education from SUNY Geneseo, Hofstra University, and Stony Brook University, is passionate about fostering the kind of bond that has kept PTA President Weih’s family actively involved at Dutch Lane for generations. “Our students come from differing cultures, speak many languages, and come to us with varying abilities. No matter what their backgrounds are, all children are welcomed and valued here.”

To that end, Principal Rossi has developed new initiatives focusing on empowering students and building strong com-

munity connections. Family Connect Night, a new initiative, is just one example. “One night a month, no traditional homework is assigned throughout the school,” shared Mrs. Rossi. “It’s designed to be electronics-free, so parents and children can do something together as a family. Parents send me the photos of their activities and I tweet them out.” Readers can see Family Connect Night photos and many of the school’s other special activities by searching Twitter: @HDutchlane.

“We also started Student Council for our third through fifth graders,” she continued. “These student leaders are assisting us with the rollout of the school’s Olweus anti-bullying program (http:// www.violencepreventionworks.org/

Continued on page 16

Second-graders delighted in taking turns with the classroom’s new hermit crab pets as Principal Rossi looked on.

Principal Rossi visited students in Miss Cody’s fifthgrade RISE classroom as they learned about the heroes and heroines of the American Revolution that lived right here on Long Island.

Dutch Lane Principal Mrs. Janine Rossi greets the students as they arrive for school. “I want the students to know that I am there for them.”

Rossi joined in as the students formed groups of specific numbers called out by their teachers.

Imagine having the luxury lifestyle you deserve without the concerns of living alone or maintaining a home. At The Bristal, we are committed to helping seniors stay independent while knowing that expert care is there if needed – delivered by a team who treat you like family. Every day you’ll enjoy a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and the unmatched services and amenities you’ve come to expect from The Bristal.

SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY!

EAST MEADOW 516-636-1770

WESTBURY 516-226-9540

For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: THEBRISTAL.COM

History comes alive for Jonas A. Salk students

Eighth-grade students from Jonas E. Salk Middle School in the Levittown Public Schools had the unique opportunity to hear from local veterans in honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 8. Coordinated by social studies teachers Robin Insana and Samantha McKevitt, this was the first year of “Take a Veteran to School Day” where eighth-grade social studies classes honored veterans during an assembly and spoke with the veterans in a smaller setting later in the day.

Miltary Bridge

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, St. Ignatius Parish of Hicksville will be hostingaMilitaryBridgeonSunday,January26at 1:30 p.m.

The event will take place at Msgr. Tarrant Hall in the St. Ignatius Old School on East Nicholai Street. (The hall is handicapped accessible.)

Walk-ins are welcome. No experience is necessary to play. Everyone will go home with a prize.

Cost: $10 per person. Cake and coffee or tea are included.

For more information, please call Margaret at 516-822-6087 or email cda869@ gmail.com

Veterans included Jonas E. Salk Middle School staff members, family members and veterans from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Levittown. During the assembly, the veterans were introduced, facts about veterans were shared and members General Douglas MacArthur High School’s select choral group performed the “Star Spangled Banner.” The veterans were then invited into the school library to enjoy some food and refreshments. Throughout the day, eighth-grade social studies classes visited the library and picked a veteran to sit with. The small group

setting allowed students to comfortably ask questions and learn more about their special guests. Veterans brought photos and memorabilia to share with the students as they spoke about their military careers and experiences.

According to Insana and McKevitt, the teachers wanted the day to be meaningful for the students and something that they will always remember.

“The students have this opportunity, which they wouldn’t otherwise have, to sit and have a real conversation with a veteran,” said Insana. “It’s really nice that four of them are in the building every day… it’s nice that they now see these gentlemen in a different light. You really see the kids engaged and having a good time.”

Students will write thank you letters to the veterans following their visit and participate in a reflection using Flipgrid, a video sharing platform. The eighth-graders will record themselves telling their teachers what they learned from the visit.

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Levittown resident receives new roof from vets program

From page 1

mair. “I know they were going tired and weary of the process, but I believe it all worked for the better in the long run.”

She said that Mr. Brancale’s wife had passed away four years ago and that he hadn’t placed Christmas lights on his home in over ten years before she first became ill.

“I think it made it extra special

that the roof was repaired right before Christmas, and his two daughters and grandchildren were there to see it and smile with him.”

This was the first time that the Habitat for Humanity’s Nassau Branch participated in the international organization's veterans program.

“This was such a great thing and now we’re looking to do this for other veterans in need as well,” said Stone-Sumair.

Do you have a service to advertise?

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

Army veteran Jim Duffy (right) showed eighth-grade students (left to right) Frank Indelicato, Jocelyn Klosner and Lacey Olivos his photo album.

Eighth-graders (back, left to right) Gianna Diamentini, Emily Cavanaugh and Renee Aquino learned about the ship that Navy veteran and Jonas E. Salk security guard Bill Kranis (middle) was stationed on.

Navy veteran Peter Stasinski (middle) spoke with eighth-graders (from left) James Pisano, Kurt Roben, Anders Tong and John Morgenstern.

Abbey Lane students encourage others to pay it forward

Get a Voice members and cousins Ashley Oropeza (right) and Kaylee Oropeza with their paper hearts for the video.

Get a Voice member and fifth-grader Ally Schubeck reviewed the pay-it-forward video script before practicing.

Members of Abbey Lane Elementary School’s Get a Voice Club in the Levittown Public Schools are making a difference in their school. Advised by social worker Lindsay Grand and reading teacher Tara O’Connor, the club is an extension of Abbey Lane’s character education program, Get a Voice.

The club is open to fourth and fifth-graders, who meet once a month to work on a project or to plan an activity that promotes anti-bullying, inclusiveness, kindness and a positive school culture. The club recently met to prepare for their newest endeavor, creating a pay-it-forward video. The students were inspired after seeing one online and they discussed how they could

create one of their own. Students worked together to create a script and then practiced what they would be doing in the video before filming. The premise of the video is a student doing a random act of kindness for another student. They then pay it forward by helping someone else. After doing an act of kindness, the student gives the other student a paper heart. Once the video is filmed and edited by Principal Dr. George Maurer, the student body will watch it. The goal is to inspire Abbey Lane students to do random acts of kindness on a daily basis and to showcase that even small actions can make a big difference in the lives of others.

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Get a Voice members, fifth-grader Lily O’Connor

and fourth-grader Erin

practiced their example of a random act of kindness for the pay-it-forward video.

Two

(right)

Kerr,

Members of Abbey Lane Elementary School’s Get a Voice Club.

January 10, 2020

Where to Go in 2020: Experts Offer Ideas Worthy of Your Bucket List

BY KAREN RUBIN

TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Many different experts are offering their suggestions and predictions as to where to travel in 2020. You can get a real sense for yourself at this year’s New York Times Travel Show at Javits Center Jan. 25-26. Here are some ideas:

Lonely Planet Reveals Best Travel Destinations for 2020

Global travel authority  Lonely Planet unveiled its top 10 countries, cities, regions and best-value destinations for next year with the release of  Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020

Best in Travel 2020 is  Lonely Planet’s 15th annual collection of the world’s hottest destinations and journeys for the year ahead. This edition places particular emphasis on the best sustainable travel experiences for 2020 — ensuring travelers will have a positive impact wherever they choose to go.

Bhutan  — the kingdom set to become the first fully organic nation by 2020 — claims the coveted spot as the number-one country to visit in 2020, while  England  places second and  North Macedonia takes third.

Lonely Planet’s number-one region for 2020 is the  Central

Seeing Budapest, Hungary by bike. Budapes is one of Lonely Planet’s “best value” cities for 2020 © Eric Leiberman/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

Asian Silk Road, which is now more accessible than ever before, thanks to visa improvements for the majority of the world’s citizens, along with massive transportation and infrastructure investment.  Le Marche, Italy comes in second, followed by  Tohoku, Japan Number-one city  Salzburg, Austria will be pulling out all the

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

stops for the centenary of its worldfamous festival of music and drama next year, while  Washington, DC,

See page D2

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Where to Go in 2020: Experts Offer Ideas Worthy of Your Bucket List

USA  is second-ranked, with  Cairo, Egypt in third place.

Elsewhere,  Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara ,  Hungary’s Budapest  and  India’s Madhya Pradesh are Lonely Planet’s top three best-value destinations for 2020.

Each year,  Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel lists start with nominations from Lonely Planet’s vast community of staff, writers, bloggers, publishing partners and more. The nominations are then whittled down by our panel of travel experts to just 10 countries, 10 regions, 10 cities and 10 best value destinations. Each is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences and ‘wow’ factor.

For  Best in Travel 2020, Lonely Planet’s experts have also selected the best  New Openings,  New Places to Stay ,  New Food Experiences , and  Sustainable Trips for Families, as well as devoting an entire chapter to the best ways to  Travel Well www.lonelyplanet.com/bestin-travel features tips and videos on visiting each destination, as well as a chance to win a Silk Road adventure for two. The top 10 cities can also be explored for free with Lonely Planet’s Guides app.

Top 10 Countries: Bhutan, England, North Macedonia, Aruba, eSwatini, Costa Rica, The Netherlands, Liberia, Morocco, Uruguay

Top 10 Regions: Central Asian Silk Road; Le Marche, Italy; Tohoku, Japan; Maine, USA; Lord Howe Island, Australia; Guizhou Province, china; Cadiz Province, Spain; Northeast

Argentina; Kvarner Gulf, Croatia; Brazilian Amazon

Top 10 Cities: Salzburg, Austria; Washington, DC, USA; Cairo, Egypt; Galway, Ireland; Bonn, Germany; La Paz, Bolivia; Kochi, India; Vancouver, Canada; Dubai, UAE; Denver, USA

Top 10 Best Value: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia; Budapest, Hungary; Madhya Pradesh, India; Buffalo, USA; Azerbaijan; Serbia; Tunisia; Cape Winelands, South Africa; Athens, Greece; Zanzibar, Tanzania

Lonely Planet, a leading travel guidebook publisher, can be found on  lonelyplanet.com, mobile, video and in 14 languages, 13 international magazines, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks and more.

“At Lonely Planet we seek to make a difference in people’s lives by spreading the power of travel. We firmly believe that travel has a significant positive impact on people’s lives and outlooks and is a force of positive change.”

From Australian Surfing to Tech-Free Tonga, Virtuoso Reveals Top 10 ‘Wanderlist’

Experiences for 2020

NEW YORK–  Virtuoso®’s selection of inspired experiences – deemed Wanderlist®-worthy thanks to their “trips of a lifetime” status – will have even the most seasoned travelers reaching for their passport. The 2020 Virtuoso Luxe Report, an annual survey of its global luxury travel network’s 20,000 travel advisors around the world, highlights insights and observations for

travel in the year ahead. Acclaimed as a trend predictor, the Luxe Report captured advisor recommendations for the ten most unusual and exciting experiences for 2020.

Virtuoso’s must-have travel experiences are:

Surf Sydney’s  iconic Bondi Beach, whether a pro or first-timer. Bondi is just outside the city center and extremely popular with locals and visitors alike. Serious surfers hang out at the southern end of the beach, while novices occupy the northern stretch, where waves are often smaller.

Head to  Tokyo for the 2020 Olympics, taking place July 24 to August 9. Japan continues to trend in 2020, finding itself on two Luxe Report lists for global and emerging destinations. Beyond the Games, travelers will be enamored with Japan’s gorgeous scenery, dynamic cities, culinary delights and cultural heritage.

Witness the  Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya, where millions of zebras, wildebeest and antelope traverse the landscape in search of food and water while attempting to elude predators such as lions and crocodiles.

Live like a local for a month (or more) in Italy, the Luxe Report’s top global destination of 2020. As authenticity is one of the year’s top trends, travelers can immerse themselves in the lifestyle of this beloved country. Rent a villa. Find a favorite espresso or wine bar. Learn the language. Master the cuisine or just savor it.

Support the  Bahamas  after the devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian, which severely damaged Grand Bahama

and Abaco islands in Septem -added benefits, VIP treatment and exclusive access. To find an advisor, visit  www. virtuoso.com/travel-advisors

World’s Greatest Travelers List of 8 epic Travel Adventures for 2020 (Also Known as ‘The 2020 Travel Bucket List for the Jaded Traveler’)

By Bill Chalmers & Pamela L. Chalmers, GreatEscape Adventures

Los Angeles, USA –  Getting a kick taking an adventure used to be easy: visit South Atlantic’s remote St Helena, scuba dive Mexico’s underground river Cenote, hike up Mount Etna. Been there.  Nowadays, travelers looking for the next great adventure rush must: traverse Karakorum Highway, spend a night at Everest Base Camp, or swim with jellyfish in Palau.  Done that. But for those of us who have ziplined across the Grand Canyon, hiked Tasmania’s Overland Track, and are frankly sick of sand in every orifice after Burning Man.  What’s next?

You may be among  the World’s Most Interesting People, but for jaded travelers who have supposedly done everything and have nothing left on their Bucket Lists, here’s your  what’s next  eight over-the-top adventures from The World’s Greatest Travelers. 1. A long way to go to maybe be eaten alive! But, head to Cape Town, South Africa and go  cage diving with Great White sharks. Come face-to-face

with the world’s meanest badest coldest predator along the shark-abundant shores of South Africa. You will be sunk in a cage and given a poker stick for protection. Chances are, you’ll be okay. You’ll probably even see whales and dolphins too—being the smart mammals, they are always interested in watching stupid human tricks.

2. Bike from sea-to-sea across a country. No, not across Canada (9,525+ km), but the more manageable country of Nicaragua that is only 568 km (352 miles) from the Pacific Ocean’s San Juan del Sur to Pearl Lagoon on the Atlantic Ocean side. The amazing 13-day mountain bike expedition will take you to volcanoes, colonial towns, national parks, rainforests and lakes, as you share the road with trucks, cows, horses, pigs, and chickens. Do it now before the Chinese slice the nation in two  ala  Panama!

3. For the culinary daredevil in you, while you are in the geographic neighborhood, take in the wild-west of food: a pop-up jungle-to-table extravaganza in the Bolivian Amazon basin along the Beni River. Once every few years, local “back to nature” chefs converge to prepare exotic semiillegal outside the villages dishes like: crocodile fillets in a coca leaf broth, grilled giant tapir meat served with a cocktail of fermented  kecho fruit and cacao beans with a spicy chili pepper

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

twist,  paiche (a really big fish—a carp really) served with figs and spicy-sweet beetle larvae. They might also conjure up a purplish  fungue—that may or may not have hallucinogenic effects, along with steamed giant river turtles. Caiman sushi anyone?

4. I took this serendipity challenge last year and ended up in Madagascar— pre-plague outbreak. Take the 24-Hours to Anywhere Challenge: It is our belief that with today’s growth of regional air carriers that you can be anywhere in the world in 24-hours. So, pick a destination furthest away geographically from you and attempt to get there in 24-hours.

On a bet, I recently went from the San Francisco Bay Area to Antananarivo, Madagascar—17,599 kilometers away! SFO to IST (12:55 hours), then IST-ADD (5:30 hours), followed by a flight between Ethiopia (ADD) and Madagascar (TNR) (4:50 hours). I got to Madagascar in 23 hours and 41 minutes—but I did do it on the night we changed clocks! Tip: Bring a really good multi-media playlist.

5. We humans have gazed in wonder at the night skies before words hit paper; and you don’t have to be an astrophysicist to wonder what’s up. Night-sky travel (aka astrotourism) are great adventures to take. We suggest two spellbinding panoramas to be found: 1) Head to the Canary Islands international observatory at Roque de los Muchachos on La Palma

Discovering a village on stilts on Inle Lake, Myanmar during the 2019 Global Scavenger Hunt. Where will they go this year? Participants vying to win the title “Greatest Travelers” don’t know until they get the call to get to the airport © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

for some sensational light pollutionfree heavenly viewing. Or 2) for some really deep dark-sky space stargazing at a gold-certified Dark Sky Reserve, head to NamibRand Nature Reserve in Namibia where you can sleep out under the cloudless skies of Africa for a look at infinity…or at least some amazing celestial sights.

WRITER’S CORNER

6. With age comes experience, and over the years we have suggested how to get higher highs: a lost weekend at an infamous Vegas dive bar, visiting a Bolivian pop-up cocaine bar, a Laotian opium den and how best to enjoy Peruvian  ayahuasca. For this year’s vibe adventure, forget BC Bud, Emerald

See page D5

There is something especially delightful about winter!

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

The cold winter months are here and Long Island is transformed into a winter wonderland. It’s the perfect time to frolic outdoors then head inside for some cups of hot chocolate. Snow showers and snow angels abound. Winter has lots of milestones - lots of memorable moments with family and friendsand it also has many historic moments. Many famous people were born in this season.

Thomas Edison’s work and his winter retreat

Thomas Alva Edison was born on February 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio. He was the youngest of seven children. When Edison was seven his family moved to Port Huron, Mich. Edison lived there until he went out on his own at the age of 16. He had very little formal education as a child. His mother taught him reading, writing and arithmetic, Always a very curious child, he taught himself a lot by doing his own independent reading. Edison began working at an early age which was common at the time. At 13 he took a job as a newsboy, selling newspapers and candy on the local railroad that ran through Port Huron to Detroit. He spent

much of his free time reading scientific and technical books. Edison also had the opportunity to learn how to operate a telegraph and by the time he was 16, he worked full-time as a telegrapher. He traveled extensively and worked in a number of cities throughout the U.S. before arriving in Boston in 1868.

It was in Boston that Edison changed his profession from telegrapher to inventor. He received his first patent on an electric vote recorder, a device that was intended for use by elected bodies such as Congress to speed the voting process. This invention wasn’t a success, however. In 1869 Thomas Edison moved to New York City. He worked on inventions related to the telegraph and developed his first successful invention which was an improved stock ticker called the “Universal Stock Printer.” (nps.gov) From this invention the money he got enabled Edison to set up his first small laboratory and manufacturing facility in Newark, N.J., in 1871. During the next five years, Edison worked in Newark inventing and manufacturing devices that greatly improved the speed and efficiency of the telegraph. At this time he married Mary Stilwell and started a family. In 1876 Edison sold his Newark man-

ufacturing business and moved his family and staff of assistants to the small village of Menlo Park, 25 miles southwest of New York City. Edison established a new facility containing all the equipment necessary to work on any invention. This research and development laboratory was the first of its kind anywhere. It was the model for the future Bell Laboratories. After Thomas Edison’s wife, Mary, died in 1884 he spent less time in Menlo Park and chose to live in New York City with his three children. One year, while vacationing at a friend’s house in New England, Edison met Mina Miller. The couple was married in February 1886 and moved to West Orange, N.J. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were friends and in 1885 they went to Florida looking for land to build a winter escape for their families. Edison became one of our earliest Florida snowbirds. He bought 13 acres of property in Fort Myers in 1885 and a year later his vacation home was completed. The Edisons named their winter home “Seminole Lodge” and Edison spent every winter there until he died in 1931. Henry Ford bought the property next door and called it “The Mangoes.”

Those Comfortably Delightful Fireplaces

On a cold winter’s day my family and I decided to start a fire in the living room fireplace. My brother-in-law, Don, placed some logs strategically in the fireplace and lit a match to start it. It caught on quickly and in short order the room was feeling comfortably warm. The pine candle we had lit in the living room smelled good, too, and it all created a certain ambiance. As I curled up on the couch reading a library book that I had taken out recently I saw that my four-year-old cat, Bette Davis, was curled up in her bed. She looked as comfortable as could be while she enjoyed a catnap but also kept an ear attuned to what we were up to. If someone laughed out loud spontaneously at a joke Bette lifted her head and looked around to see what the commotion was all about. This

See page D5

Turning 66 in 2020? Consider Filing for Benefits This Month

BY TOM MARGENAU

I write a column similar to this one every January. But I don’t mind plagiarizing myself, because it contains a very important message for people planning to retire in 2020.

January is a critical month for the hundreds of thousands of potential Social Security beneficiaries who are reaching 66, their so-called full retirement age, in 2020. The important message: All of them should at least consider the possibility of filing for their benefits this month, even though they may not be reaching their retirement age until later in the year.

Please note that if you want to delay filing for your Social Security benefits until 70 to get a 32% “delayed retirement credit” added to your monthly benefits, then you should forgo the procedure discussed in this column.

But if you are not interested in that strategy and plan to start your benefits at 66 in 2020, then, as I said, you may want to consider filing for benefits in January.

The reason for this early filing timeframe has to do with some quirky and complicated features of Social Security’s earnings penalty provisions. Those provisions generally keep seniors who are still working off of Social Security’s rolls until they reach that magic full retirement age.

The law essentially says if you are over 62 but under your full retirement age and still working full time, you are not eligible for Social Security. Specifically, the rules require that the SSA deduct $1 from any retirement benefits you might be due for every $2 you earn over $18,240 in 2020.

However, the rules say that once you reach your full retirement age, you are due full Social Security benefits even if you are still working and no matter how much money you are making.

Let’s follow an example. Let’s say Ed was born in July 1954, which means he’ll reach his full retirement age of 66 in July 2020. And let’s further say Ed generally makes about $80,000 per year, and he plans to continue working indefinitely. Based on the earnings penalty rules I briefly outlined above, Ed figures he must wait until July (his full retirement age) to begin collecting his Social Security benefits. As I said, at that magical point, the earnings penalty rules no longer apply, and he can get his Social Security. And prior to that, he’s making way more than the $18,240 income threshold.

But here is why Ed should check into applying for Social Security in January. Congress set up a more lenient earnings threshold for the year you reach your full retirement age. Specifically, it says you can earn up to $48,600 between Jan-

uary and the month you reach your full retirement age and still get Social Security benefits. And even if you earn more than $48,600, you lose only $1 from your benefits for every $3 you exceed that threshold.

Ed is going to make $40,000 between January and June (i.e., before he reaches the magic age of 66). And that’s under the $48,600 threshold for 2020, which means Ed is due benefits beginning in January. He does NOT have to wait until July to apply for his Social Security checks.

There is a bit of a catch. By starting his benefits in January, Ed will be accepting a slightly reduced amount. (Benefits are reduced roughly one-half of 1% for each month they are taken before full retirement age.)

If Ed’s Social Security benefit at full retirement age is $2,500 per month, let’s look at his options.

Ed’s first option is to wait until July to start his Social Security benefits. He’ll get $2,500 per month for six months, or $15,000 for the year 2020.

Ed’s second option is to file for Social Security in January. Starting his benefits slightly early, his monthly rate is reduced to about $2,400. That comes out to $28,800 in total benefits for the year 2020. The downside to option two is his ongoing monthly benefit rate will be $100 less than what he would have been getting in option one. But because he’d be getting about $13,800 less in 2020 benefits in option one, it would take Ed a long time to make up that loss with his extra $100 per month in ongoing benefits. If I were Ed, I’d choose the second option.

Even if Ed was going to make more than the $48,600 income threshold between January and June, he only loses $1 in Social Security benefits for each $3 he exceeds that amount. So he probably still comes out ahead by filing in January.

Here is a quick example using that scenario. Let’s say Ed will make $60,000 between January and June. That’s $11,400 over the $48,600 limit. And onethird of that excess, or about $3,800, must be deducted from his 2020 benefits. But he would still get $25,000 in benefits for the year. That’s still way better than the $15,000 he would be due by waiting until July to file for his Social Security.

Please note that this strategy might not work if you are earning far above the $48,600 limit -- especially if you turn 66 much later in the year.

I know these rules are complicated and the math in the examples above might be difficult to follow. But my overall message is easy to follow: If you’re reaching age 66 in 2020, talk to a Social Security representative sometime this month to find out if it’s to your advantage to file for those benefits in January.

One word of caution: Many read-

ers in the past told me that when they tried to file in January, Social Security Administration representatives told them they could not do so. Sadly, far too many SSA agents are unfamiliar with how these rules work. If you run into

the same problem, ask to speak to a supervisor.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has the answer. Contact him at thomas.margenau@comcast.net. COPYRIGHT 2020

There is something especially delightful about winter!

C ontinued from page D3

black cat with large green eyes, with four white paws and a large patch of white on her chest is definitely attached to my family. It seems that if my family and I are chatting in the kitchen, Bette wants to be in the kitchen. If we hang out in the dining room, there she is lying in a corner of the room or sitting next to one of our chairs. When she moves from her cat bed in the living room she likes to lie right in front of the fire on the wooden floor. We don’t put the cat bed on the floor in front of the fire because it’s an open fireplace not a gas or electric fireplace.

When a few hours later the fire from logs started to abate one of us leaned down and added another log. Bette seemed fascinated by the machinations of the fireplace - and at our attempts to be warm and comfortable on winter days when the thermometer reads 34 degrees. Winter routines are different from summer routines and I always know that it’s winter whenever I hear the crackling of a log in a fireplace. Winter - it’s a most wonderful time of the year!

We got Bette from a non-profit animal shelter on the south shore of Long Island. She and two other kittens and their mama were brought to the shelter in a box during a snowstorm in Queens in February 2015. The four of them had been abandoned and thanks

to the efforts of the Good Samaritan they were saved, nurtured, checked by a veterinarian and placed with families. We saw Bette grow from a three-pound kitten to a 13-lb. cat and now, as an indoors-only cat, she enjoys our family and living in our home. That kitten with the boundless energy has mellowed out a bit.

Wood Frogs Hibernate in Winter

Most animals hibernate during the cold winter months using their thick fur coats or layers of fat. Tiny wood frogs don’t have that, though so how do they do it? I never knew much about the wood frog but it turns out that you can find it as far south as Alabama and as far north as Alaska and northern Canada. It’s the only frog that lives in the wild north of the Arctic Circle. How does an amphibian survive the harsh winters of those frozen lands? It freezes. Scientists working in Alaska found that local wood frogs can freeze their bodies at least 60% for up to seven months. This is enough to stop their hearts from beating and blood from flowing through their bodies.

The tiny frogs don’t just freeze and thaw all at once. They prepare for it in a very systematic fashion. In early autumn, when the temperatures drop to freezing at night but thaw during the day, the frogs follow a similar pattern. This allows them to convert the glycogen stored in their liver into

glucose. Since they don’t completely thaw during the day, much of the glucose released remains stored in their bodies. By the time winter rolls around, most frogs have gone through 10-15 freeze-thaw cycles allowing them to accumulate large amount of glucose inside their cells. When the ice melts, the frogs thaw and it is an amazing thing and they are still alive. It is the high levels of glucose in the frogs’ cells that keep them alive throughout the long, cold winter. When spring arrives, the wood frogs thaw out and hop away. Frogs may look fragile but they certainly are not. They are actually very hardy animals. (neatorama.com)

It’s “Sugaring Time” in Upstate NY

I read a book recently by Susan Wiggs called, “The Goodbye Quilt” which was published in 2011. In its pages she gives a great fictional description of sugaring time in upstate New York.

Wiggs writes: “After the riot of color (in autumn), the trees lose all their leaves and appear to die. It is then, in the dead of winter, that the maples are most productive. If you tap deep enough into the tree, sinking a metal tube into its most hidden heart, you’ll discover a gush of life.

The sap is drained through the tube, collected in covered buckets and boiled in huge vats to make maple syrup.

Who the heck thought of that? I wonder. At some moment in the unre-

Where to Go in 2020: Experts Offer Ideas Worthy of Your Bucket List

C ontinued from page D3

Triangle Kush and Colorado Wedding Cake, take a  Jamaican Ganja tour. Turned up bright, the tour will take you and other like-minded and budtended friends to Rastafariland, with highlights including: Nine Mile, the boyhood home and final resting place of reggae superstar Bob Marley; Ocho Rios to relax and hike in nature; along with several plantations…aka ganja farms. Pick up is around noon, munchies and rum included, but hotel drop off time is vague.

7. Give peace a chance: start travel podcasting and make some faux press credentials, then head to Damascus and interview the loneliest man in the world: Syria’s Minister of Tourism. From 8 million tourists and 40% growth in 2011, to the nasty civil and chemical war, mostly, behind us,  Syria is open for business again. You can visit one or two restaurants still open and err,

ruins. Their catch phrase: “Syria … come see for yourself“. We know the UN Weapons Inspectors did. A few travel-related glitches though: all legal border crossings are closed, no FAAapproved commercial flights into or out of Damascus, those beach-side cabanas along the Mediterranean beaches are now refugee tents, and crime might be down, but war crimes are up. Sure, it is dark tourism at its finest, but so too is visiting Venice and Barcelona these days. We double-dare you!

8. Take  A Blind Date with the World –  really! – by joining the 2020 edition of  The Global Scavenger Hunt This real-life  Amazing Race-like event is for savvy globetrotters who want to test their travel IQ in a competitive setting where they will circumnavigate the globe in 23-days visiting ten countries as a participant in the annual travel adventure competition that crowns  The World’s Greatest Travelers. Not for anal Type-A planners though, because you

membered past, someone walked up to a leafless maple tree, hammered a tube into its center, harvested the sap and rendered it into sweet syrup. What a random thing to do.

One thing I’d guess - whoever thought it up wasn’t a college graduate. She - I’m quite certain it was a she - was probably a mother. An ancient Algonquin desperate housewife. At the end of a long winter, her kids were probably bored and cranky from being cooped up in the longhouse, chasing each other and driving her crazy with their noise. They had no idea supplies had run low, that the men hadn’t done too well on the latest hunt. Pretty soon, the kids’ war whoops and giggles would turn to whining. Yelling at the older kids to keep the younger ones away from the fire, the woman strapped on snowshoes made of hide, with gut laces, and trudged out to into the deadening cold to look for food.

How did she know about the secret inside the maple tree? Maybe the deer clued her in. during the starving season, the hungry animals stripped the bark from the trees as high as they could reach. Maybe the woman, her vision sharpened by desperation, noticed the glistening ooze from the flesh of the trees. Maybe she touched a finger to the sticky dampness, tasted a faint sweetness on her tongue. And the rest was history. An industry was born … the children feasted on boiled cornmeal magically sweetened with an elixir from the sugar maples.”

won’t know which country you are going to until you actually get to the airport! It’s the ultimate magical mystery tour. Their 2020 event takes place between April 17 and May 9, 2020. Applications now being accepted. I dare you…

The title of  The World’s Greatest Travelers and free trip around the world to defend their titles in the 2021 event await the travelers worthy enough to win the 16th edition of the world travel championship. The date for the 23-day 2020 Global Scavenger Hunt is April 17-May 9, 2020. Event participation is open but limited; the $25,000 per team entry fee includes all international airfare, First Class hotels, 40% of meals, and special event travel gear. All travelers are interviewed for suitability and single travelers are welcome to apply. For additional information visit  GlobalScavengerHunt.com, or contact GreatEscape Adventures Inc. at

See page D6

Susan Wiggs, a Harvard graduate, is a former math teacher who has written lots of novels. She lives in Washington State. In fact she lives at the water’s edge on an island in Puget Sound. In good weather, she commutes to her writers’ group in a 21-foot motorboat. Most of the themes of her books focus on the strong bonds of family.

Where to Go in 2020: Experts Offer Ideas Worthy

of Your Bucket List

310-281-7809.

(See full coverage of the 2019 Global Scavenger Hunt at goingplacesfarandnear.com)

Where To Go In 2020: US Tour Operators Reveal Top Travel Trends For 2020

The  United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) released results of its annual travel trend and forecast survey of the association’s active tour operator members naming Italy the most popular destination for travelers in 2020.

The top five “hot” destinations for next year also included France, which ranked second; followed by Spain, Greece and the United Kingdom (tied for third); Ireland and Japan (tied for fourth), Germany tying South Africa for fifth.

USTOA tour operator members also identified their top five off-the-beaten path or emerging destinations that they see gaining popularity in 2020: Egypt, Croatia and Colombia tied for first. “Egypt topping the list is the epitome of a destination comeback story,” added Terry Dale, President and CEO of

USTOA. “It reinforces a strong return in popularity and demand among travelers, after several challenging years.”  Making the list for the first time, Slovenia was named second, followed by Thailand, Vietnam, and Morocco and Ethiopia (tied for fifth).

On the domestic front, USTOA members forecast California as the most popular U.S. destination for clients in 2020. New York came in second, with Florida and Nevada tied for third, followed by Arizona, and Alaska and Hawaii (tied for fifth).

Arts and culture was cited by survey participants as the top travel category driving sales in 2019, wildlife and nature followed in a close second.  Local immersion, small groups/small ships and uncharted destinations were named by Active Members as the top three travel trends projected to grow the most over the next five years.

Members were also asked to name the destinations/sites that travelers should see now, with some sense of urgency before overcrowding, climate change or other factors impact the experience.

Antarctica was named first, followed by Machu Picchu in Peru,

and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Venice, Italy (tied for third).

When asked about potential threats to traveler confidence in the year ahead, the presidential election year topped the list. Recession was named the second global risk that could impact potential growth in 2020, followed by global financial instability in third.

For more information on USTOA, visit  www.ustoa.com, call 212-599-6599, or email information@ustoa.com

Representing nearly $19 billion in revenue, the member companies of U.S. Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow 9.8 million travelers annually access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value and freedom to enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business.

New York Times Travel Show to Showcase Latest Global Travel Trends, Jan 24-26

The 2020 New York Times Travel Show–now in its 17th year–will open with a Trade Day exclusively for over 11,000 travel industry professionals and media on Friday, January 24; Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26 will be open to an expected 23,000 consumer travelers, as well as to travel professionals and media. The three-day showcase will feature global

cuisine tastings, cultural performances, travel book signings, one-on-one conversations with travel experts and special discounts and offers for consumers of all ages from over 750 exhibitors.

The New York Times Travel Show is the largest and longest-running trade and consumer travel show in North America, featuring the Travel Industry Conference, Consumer Seminars, Meet The Experts Pavilion and an interactive Exhibition including more than 750 exhibitors representing travel to all seven continents, positioned within 16 pavilions (including Adventure, Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Canada, Caribbean, Cruise, Europe, Family, Global, Latin America, L.G.B.T.Q., Mexico, River Cruise, Travel Products, and U.S.A. Pavilions). In addition to discounts and special offers, the show provides educational seminars and live entertainment for families, individuals and couples and seniors. Join the conversation and follow @NYTTravelShow for the latest Travel Show news. More information at https:// nyttravelshow.com.

© 2020 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com,  www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Location, location, school district, but what are

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

So you have now made a conscientious decision to look to either upgrade or downsize and you have certain perimeters that will satisfy your specific “needs and wants.”

There are times when a wife, significant other or husband is very adamant about what they want in the home and have a list of pre-requisites that they are searching for; whether it be as simple as an eat-in- kitchen, gas heat, new appliances, or something more substantial like a new kitchen and bathrooms, new roof, new utilities, etc, or whatever you feel is most important to you and your family. You already know what towns and neighborhoods that you would like to reside within as well as the specific school district that you decided upon for your children to go to.

However, even when downsizing, I have always recommended to still buy into the best schools for the money you are spending because, this will always provide better value and above average appreciation in the future, when and if you decide to sell again. Even when those who are considering renting, should be very cognizant of the best school districts for the “biggest bang” for their buck, within the pricepoint that they can afford.

Many times people aren’t willing to consider trade-offs from the get

go, because we always want as much as we can get for our money and that is understandable. Maybe the home you want needs a lot of work and you aren’t willing to go through a gut renovation. But if you want to derive the most optimum situation, buying an “ugly duckling” to turn it into a beautiful “swan” as long as the budget is available. Moreover, you will be building in value and appreciation right from the start. Buying into another homeowner’s renovations is another path that can be taken as long as you can appreciate what they have completed and to what level of renovation they have gone to. Also, you need to determine whether or not it aligns with your particular tastes; especially when your wife or significant other is very demanding and picky; because it’s always about “happy wife, happy life.”

some will take a step back and get more “realistic” about their specific, “needs and wants” to come to a more pragmatic and logical approach. Unless you have a blank check or are paying outright for your purchase one needs to be very careful when buying their first and even their second or vacation home.

season to consider purchasing a tradeup or higher priced home, especially right after a snowfall ,when there are less people going out in that kind of weather.

In my professional opinion people should first consider siting down in the evening and make up a “wish list” (champagne tastes and sometimes beer pockets) and at the same time the most important things that you absolutely desire in the beginning and are not willing to trade-off; but in the long run

Upgrading and renovating a single or multi-family home, homeowner association, condo or coop, can either be an arduous and complicated process if not planned out or you can have a more pleasant experience when one does their homework and “crosses the tees and dots the “I”s when adding those items that you had originally traded off and then deciding what to add, since you now want to add what was missing from your “wish list.” Some price-points are now still at an all-time high from the implosion in 2008, while others; due to our wonderful S.A.L.T. tax has put a kibosh on the prices of higher end homes in the “blue states” with taxes of $20,000 and higher, have definitely softened and gone down. New homes with all the “bells and whistles” are taking one or more years to secure a prospective buyer; however, this is the most opportune

Wordsmiths Wanted

Being in the financial position to get those trade-offs many times, can be accomplished more easily in the winter than at any other time of the year. However, there are times the process of trading off one important item for another can be a very crucial factor in your decision making; to enable you to realize and to conclude what is really important and not stand on ceremony in desiring everything, as opposed to those things that are important like the location, location and your school district!

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 Great Neck. He has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute and also as a Certified International Property Specialist. He can be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email, at Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate. Com to answer any of your questions, concerns or suggestions for ideas for his column.

The “Writer’s Corner” column in our Discovery section is open to submissions from writers of articles on local topics, as well as opinions, reviews, personal experiences, humor, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even fiction. E-mail submissions: editor@gcnews.com

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

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words. • The writer will receive a stipend of $25.⁰⁰ for each accepted article.

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

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900

AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com

Garden City News

• Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram

• Syosset Advance • Jericho News Journal Williston Times - Mineola Edition

New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Great Neck News

DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.

2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”

2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com

Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

EXPERIENCED

RECEPTIONIST & CLERICAL PART TIME

SEASONAL POSITIONS

Located in Franklin Square Call 516-358-9455

Fax resume 516-358-9483

Email: ed@loturco.com

JOB OPPORTUNITY:

$18 50 P/H NYC $15 P/H LI $14.50 P/H UPSTATE NYH.

If you currently care for your relatives or friends who have Medicaid or Medicare, you may be eligible to start working for them as a personal assistant. No Certificates needed. 347-462-2610 or 347-565-6200

REAL ESTATE FIRM EXPANSION MANAGER

First Century Funding, Inc. (Jericho, NY), specializing in residential and commercial lending is looking for a Real Estate Firm Expansion Manager to work on a real estate business expansion plan, to negotiate and to structure real estate deals.

2 years Real Estate Law or Business Experience, including experience in real estate marketing, real estate legal transactions and analysis. Detailed Social Media knowledge. Strong people management. Master’s Degree in Law or Business is required. Ability to speak foreign languages preferred, but not required. Please send resume to: lawfirm.nyc.usa@gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

ELDER CARE COMPANION:

30 years experience, certified. Live in or out, will drive for errands/appointments, etc. Excellent references. Please call 718-915-7683

ELDER CARE:

EMPLOYMENT

TAX PREPARER PART TIME

Franklin Square Experience needed Retirees welcome. Call 516-358-9455

Fax resume 516-358-9483

Email: ed@loturco.com

SITUATION WANTED

CARING, RESPECTFUL AND RELIABLE CAREGIVER AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY. 15+ years experience. Able to care for patients with various illnesses. Prepare meals and do light housekeeping. Flexible working arrangement. Excellent references. Please call Mary 516-689-4770

COMPANION/CAREGIVER AVAILABLE

Honest, Reliable, Friendly, Experienced Polish Woman is available for Companionship with Elderly. Housekeeping, laundry, meals, errands. Speaks English. Has own car. Call or text 516-589-5640

Mature woman available to take care of elderly person 3 days/week daytime hours or night time hours and sleep in. Light cooking. Local excellent references. Own car available. Please call Luisa 516-485-9215 or 516-451-1781. Leave message.

HEALTH AIDE:

Certified Aide seeking to provide private duty care to Garden City or local area resident. Available Monday through Friday, part time or full time, flexible hours, exceptional references.

Call Annmarie 917-586-7433

HOME AIDE/COMPANION

available for immediate hire. 19+ years experience with focus on Dementia, Parkinson’s & Alzheimer’s disease. Extremely reliable. Able to do light housekeeping. Driver’s License. References available upon request. Please call Verona: 347-455-7564

HOME HEALTH AIDE/CNA

Experienced woman seeking Full Time Live In Position. Willing to do light housekeeping, running errands. Licensed drive w/ own car. References available.

Call Joy 516-902-1867

IRISH LADY AVAILABLE to care for sick or elderly full time any days. Experienced in all phases. References and car available. Garden City references. Please call 516-437-1285

EMPLOYMENT

CAREER TRAINING

AIRLINE CAREERS Start here. Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866296-7094

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

A PLACE FOR MOM has helped over a million families find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call: 1-800-404-8852

FINANCE

DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY?

Appeal! If you’re over 50+, filed for SSD and denied, our attorneys can help get you approved! No money out of pocket! 855478-2506

GET DIRECTV! ONLY $35/ month. 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies on Demand (w /SELECT All Included Package). PLUS Stream on UP to FIVE Screens Simultaneously at No Additional Cost. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

LUNG CANCER? And Age 60+? You and your family may be entitled to significant cash award. Call 866-951-9073 for information. No risk. No money out of pocket.

SAVE ON YOUR NEXT PRESCRIPTION! World Health Link. Price Match Guarantee! Prescriptions Required. CIPA Certified. Over 1500 medications available. CALL today for a free price quote. 1-866-569-7986 Call Now!!

TAG SALE

MOVINGESTATES SALE

Saturday, January 18, 9-2pm 73 Second Street, Garden City (Between Cathedral & Cherry Valley Ave.)

Furniture, glassware, antiques, rugs, clothes, outdoor furniture, jewery, Decorative items, art, tools. NO EARLY BIRDS

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

********************

TURN YOUR TREASURES INTO CASH!

Come to Consign/Stay to Shop!

109 Eleventh Street, Garden City 516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-SilverMirrors-Lamps-ArtworkChinaCrystal-Collectibles

Tuesday-Friday 10-4 Saturday 12-4

(10% Sr. Discount Tues) All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Email: store@atstewartexchange.org

Like us on Facebook & Instagram

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN

Looking to sell items from your home?

Consider doing an Online Auction!

Online Auctions reach more interested buyers than tag sales and can often sell for more than what you would make at an estate or tag sale.

Invited Estate Sales by Tracy Jordan can do both! You can sell your items online reaching potential buyers locally or globally as well as hosting a private sale from your home! Let us guide you on what items to put in auction including furniture, housewares, decorative items, jewelry, collectibles, coins, artwork and anything else you may no longer want or need. Our services can help you to maximize your selling experience whether you are selling 1 item or 500 items. We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress.

Estate and Tag Sales

Online Auctions

Cleanout and Moving Services

Home Staging Services Appraisals

Contact for more info: info@invitedsales.com or Call: 516-279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. www.invitedsales.com

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Oriental items, clothing, art, old & modern furniture, estates, jewelry, silver, glassware, dishes, old photos, coins & stamps, flatware, comic books, action figures.

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

PETS

PET SERVICES

A GARDEN CITY ANIMAL LOVER doesn’t want to leave your precious pooch or fantastic feline alone all day. I’m reliable, dependable and will walk and feed your pet while you work or travel. Please call Cheryl at 516-971-3242

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR to Wheels For Wishes, benefitting Make-a-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 631-317-2014 Today!

SERVICES

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates.com

COMPUTERS

COMPUTER ISSUES? FREE

DIAGNOSIS by GEEKS ON SITE! Virus removal, data recovery! 24/7 Emergency Service, in home repair/on line solutions. $20 off any service! 844-892-3990

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

*Minor Electrical & Plumbing

25year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in home consultation: 888-657-9488

MADE IN THE SHADE

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890

MASONRY

ALL NEW STUDIO APARTMENT

Conveniently located in North New Hyde Park. Private entrance, own thermostat, ample parking, includes all.

Smoke Free. No Pets. $990 Call 516-270-3904

All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps. Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE

CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications

516-248-9323 www.drannmariedangelo.com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

PAINTING

Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock

Skim Cutting, Old Wood Refinish, Staining, Wallpaper Removal & Hanging, Paint Removal, Power Washing, Wood Replacement JOHN MIGLIACCIO

Licensed & Insured #80422100000

Call John anytime: 516-901-9398 (Cell) 516-483-3669 (Office)

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY

Your Next Party! Catering and Experienced Professional Services for Assisting with Preparation, Serving and Clean Up Before, During and After Your Party

Bartenders Available. Call Kate at 516-248-1545

SERVICES

TUTORING

SPANISH TUTOR:

CERTIFIED SPANISH TEACHER EXPERIENCED IN ALL LEVELS OF SPANISH including AP Spanish and College Level Courses. Experienced with all levels of Chaminade Curriculum and Exams. Excellent references provided upon request.

Phone: 516-655-8194 OR Email: mmiller@emufsd.org

CLEANING

C & A CLEANING SERVICES

Cleaning services for Homes, Apartments, Offices. Experienced. Excellent References.

Free Estimates Call:

Carolina 516-858-9257 Abraham 516-680-0509

SERVICES

CLEANING

CLEANING SERVICE: Houses, Apartments, Offices. Excellent references. Own transportation, Experienced. Call Dinora 516-435-7167

SERVICES

A & J MOVING & STORAGE: Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving.com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405

DISH TV

$59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-943-0838

Wow, we made it to the year that people with bad vision dream about: 2020. New Year’s is the time that we look to the future and try to create a new vision of ourselves. In our mind’s eye, we see ourselves healthier, happier and leading more productive lives. The pursuit of gardening can help with all of those visions.

There are many ways that gardening can help. Many studies have found that being outdoors is healthier than being indoors. Planting new flowers that will make your home prettier will make you happier. Planting and tending a garden is good aerobic activity. Growing vegetables will help you keep an optimistic view of life. Eating healthy foods that you grew yourself will make you stronger. The list goes on and on.

To help your garden and landscape grow better and healthier this year, I have a few suggested

Garden Resolutions A GREENER VIEW

BY JEFF RUGG

resolutions. Start by attending gardening classes at your local county Extension office, arboretum or botanic garden. These classes will help you find and grow plants that will thrive in your yard. They will better equip you to do a better job maintaining your landscape.

Join your local garden club. I know meeting new people can be intimidating, but the new you gets out more often than the old you. I have given talks at many garden clubs, and they are all filled with friendly people who want to help newcomers feel welcome and who want to help new gardeners with their garden questions.

After you learn about new plants, you can increase the size of your flower beds and decrease the size of your lawn. This will help you have more flowers and vegetables and less work mowing the grass.

Resolve to get ahead of gardening problems and not wait for weeds to get out of hand. Use more mulch in the flower beds to decrease weeds, save money on weedkillers and protect the environment from useless weedkiller applications. It will also conserve water and decay into a better garden soil.

At the same time, resolve to find out what disease or insect is affecting your plants before polluting your yard with poisons that are used for treating something else. Using fewer pesticides is beneficial to your landscape and your pocketbook.

Resolve to mow the grass at a higher height. The longer leaves will support a bigger root system. More roots means the grass plant will need to be watered less often and will fight off weeds better.

A healthy lawn not only looks good but also provides the safest surface for kids to play on. It also cools the air around it, fights soil erosion and filters dust out of the air.

Grow some extra vegetables that can be given away. You will be happy that you did. You can learn more about growing food for your neighbors at https://gardencomm.org/PAR. This is a program called Plant a Row for the Hungry. It has helped contribute more than 20 million pounds of fresh vegetables to food pantries. Resolve to order more catalogs from mail-order gardening websites.

And lastly, resolve to enjoy your garden more by eating outside more often, strolling through the yard to smell the flowers (without pulling any weeds) and

having at least one party with family and friends over to enjoy the garden.

Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@greenerview.com. To find out more about Jeff Rugg and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2020 JEFF RUGG DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS SYNDICATE

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

Money and Relationships: How Financial Literacy Can Help ASK CARRIE

Dear Readers: If I were to ask couples to name the top three things that keep them together, I don’t imagine that shared knowledge and interest in their finances would make the list. Yet money is often cited as one of the main causes of divorce. A recent survey by Policygenius found that 1 in 5 people say their partner is financially irresponsible. And these people are over 10 times more likely to break up over money issues than people who say their partner is good with money.

I always recommend that couples get to know each other financially at the beginning of their relationship, but that really is just the start. A relationship can be a lifelong journey, and your financial togetherness is an important part of it. There are bound to be gaps in each partner’s financial attitudes and know-how, so, to me, it’s essential for every couple to not only discuss their priorities but also increase their financial knowledge along the way. Because financial literacy is also a lifelong journey.

I’ve had the opportunity to talk to a few couples lately whose own experiences demonstrate how being financially aware and informed can bring people closer together. I thought you might be interested in their stories. (Of course, I’ve changed their names.)

30-somethings Consider a Prenup Jessica and Aiden, both in their late 30s, were recently engaged. Both had growing careers, and each had already

BY CARRIE SCHWAB-POMERANTZ

accumulated some assets. One of them had a considerable number of employee stock options. While they had been together for a couple of years and already had a reasonable knowledge of each other’s financial attitudes, marriage made them look more seriously at both their individual and joint financial futures. The big question was: Did they need a prenuptial agreement?

They met with a financial advisor to talk about the pros and cons. Their advisor helped them understand that a prenup isn’t only about what could go wrong but also about helping them figure out positive ways to work together. Because, big picture, creating a prenuptial agreement takes a willingness to be completely open and honest about everything -- what you own, what you owe and how you want to live your financial lives together. That takes absolute trust.

They talked about what assets they’d share and what they’d keep separate; how they’d handle current and future debts; if one or the other would take the financial lead; and, finally, what they’d do if they were to ever split up.

Talking about a prenup not only helped them answer some important questions; it pointed out some holes in their financial knowledge. While Jessica and Aiden ultimately decided they didn’t need a formal prenuptial agreement, talking through it brought any concerns out in the open and made them feel they were on the right financial track -- together.

Second Marriage Presents Financial Challenges

When marrying for the second time, John, age 60, and Cynthia, age 55, knew they had to deal upfront with how much they were willing to marry their finances. Each had a home and invest-

ments, and Cynthia had two kids to consider. Plus, one of them had considerably more assets than the other. As you can imagine, these circumstances brought up not just financial issues but also emotional issues, which can be especially complex when marrying again later in life.

They really had to put everything on the table, share their feelings and reveal any uncertainties about the financial particulars involved. For instance, would they consider all assets acquired before the marriage separate and those acquired after marriage joint? Would they sell their current homes and move into a new one? The kids and estate planning were a particular concern. Cynthia said it was hard at that time in life to let go of some patterns and attitudes, but having a mutual understanding of how they wanted to handle their finances was absolutely essential. And they agreed to not only listen to each other but also learn from each other’s experiences. That takes a tremendous amount of openness -- and togetherness.

Longtime Partners Need to Break Old Patterns

According to an article on Phys.org, the financial literacy gap often widens in long-term relationships. That’s what happened to Laura and Alex. Alex, an accountant, just naturally handled all their finances. They’d been together since they were quite young, and Laura at first didn’t seem to care. In fact, she wasn’t really interested. But as the years went on, Laura began to feel too dependent on Alex as well as resentful. There were really two problems: Alex had to relax some of his control, and Laura needed to be willing to learn. It was difficult at first, but once Alex agreed to include Laura in more fi-

nancial decisions and Laura began to understand more about their income, savings and investments, the air was cleared, and each felt more confident in the other.

A Financial Plan Helps at Every Stage of a Relationship

Every couple has unique financial challenges, but one common way for all couples to get on the same page, learn together and solve their financial problems together is to have a financial plan.

When it comes to financial literacy, a financial plan can be an outline for understanding some basic concepts. That’s because it deals with your complete financial picture: goal planning, cash flow, budgeting, debt management, saving, investing, insurance, taxes and estate planning. Ideally, you will work with a financial planner, although an informal plan that you and your partner create yourselves can also increase your financial knowledge and give you financial direction. And it’s something couples can revisit over time to make sure they’re still in agreement.

Make a Year-End Date to Renew Your Financial Commitment

The end of the year is a traditional

time to look back at what we’ve accomplished and look forward to achieving new goals in the future. Why not make understanding more about your finances a mutual goal for you and your partner? You can think of it as increasing your financial literacy or as a way to fulfill your dreams. Either way, you’ll be doing it together -- and that’s the most important thing.

Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, Certified Financial Planner, is president of the Charles Schwab Foundation and author of “The Charles Schwab Guide to Finances After Fifty.” Read more at http://schwab.com/book. You can email Carrie at askcarrie@schwab. com. The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice. To find out more about Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2019 CHARLES SCHWAB & CO. INC. (MEMBER SIPC) DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS. COM

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS WITH NOTICE

Supreme Court Nassau County CITIMORTGAGE, INC.,

Plaintiff, -againstGREGORY KIRKHAM, and, if he be living and if he be dead, the respective heirs-atlaw, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the complaint, THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE and UNITED STATES OF AMERICAINTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, YANG HOU and RUI WONG, Defendants

Index No. 602015/2019

To the above named defendants: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the plaintiff’s attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) or within (60) days after service of this summons if it is the United States of America; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. To the above-named defendants. The foregoing summons is served upon you pursuant to an order signed by the HON. THOMAS A. ADAMS,J.S.C. dated the 9th day of October 2019. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attor-

ney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing supplemental summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Honorable Thomas A. Adams, Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, NASSAU County, dated the 8th day of October, 2019 and duly entered in the office of the Clerk of the County of NASSAU, State of New York. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT The object of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $109,600.00 and interest, recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on March 24, 1998 in Book 18473, Page 843, which mortgage was assigned to CitiMortgage, Inc. by assignment of mortgage dated August 1, 2000, which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on September 1, 2000 in Book 20506, Page 224, covering premises known as 98 MILLER RD, HICKSVILLE, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK 11801 (SECTION 12, BLOCK 174 AND LOTS 413 AND 414). The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above. The Plaintiff also seeks a deficiency judgment against the Defendant, GREGORY KIRKHAM, for any debt secured by said Mortgage which is not satisfied by the proceeds of the sale of said premises, unless discharged in bankruptcy.

Premises lying and being at Hicksville, town of Oyster Bay. BEGINNING at the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of Twin Lawns Avenue and the westerly side of Miller Road; being a plot 10 feet by 64.33 feet by 30.65 feet by9 7.26 feet by 100 feet by 70 feet.

SECTION 12, BLOCK 174 AND LOTS 413 AND 414

Dated: Roslyn Heights, New York ______________, 2019

LEGAL NOTICES

DAVID A. GALLO & ASSOCIATES LLP

By: Rosemarie A. Klie

Attorneys for Plaintiff 99 Powerhouse Road, 1st Floor Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 (516) 583-5330

MIT 5865

4X 12/20,27,01/03,10

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court Nassau County

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR SAXON ASSET SECURITIES TRUST 2006-2 MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-2, V.

ERIC P. MILGRIM, PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY, AS THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF GLORIA R GORCEY, ET AL.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated October 12, 2018, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR SAXON ASSET

SECURITIES TRUST 2006-2 MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-2 is the Plaintiff and ERIC P. MILGRIM, PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY, AS THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF GLORIA R GORCEY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the CALENDAR CONTROL PART (CCP) COURTROOM OF THE SUPREME COURT, FIRST FLOOR, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 04, 2020 at 11:30AM, premises known as 131 DEAN STREET, HICKSVILLE, NY 11801: Section 46, Block 377, Lot 36:

ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE AT HICKSVILLE, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 0006249/2015. No cash will be accepted at the sale.

Ellen Savino, Esq. - Referee.

RAS Boriskin, LLC

900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. MIT 5866 4X 01/03,10,17,24

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court Nassau County U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE NRZ PASS-THROUGH TRUST X, V.

ROSEMARIE CASEY AKA ROSEMARIE RUGGIERO, ET. AL.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated June 03, 2019, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE NRZ PASSTHROUGH TRUST X is the Plaintiff and ROSEMARIE CASEY AKA ROSEMARIE RUGGIERO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the CALENDAR CONTROL PART (CCP), FIRST FLOOR, COURTROOM OF THE SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 11, 2020 at 11:30AM, premises known as 11 GARDEN BOULEVARD, HICKSVILLE, NY 11801: Section 0046, Block 00365-00, Lot 00035: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT HICKSVILLE, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 005842/2016.

Janine T. Lynam, Esq.Referee.

RAS Boriskin, LLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. MIT 5867 4X 01/10,17,24,31

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF SILVIASHOUSECLEANING NY LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on

12/04/2019. Office located in Nassau. SSNY is designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 72 W. John St., Hicksville, NY 11801. Purpose: any lawful purpose. MIT 5868 6X 01/10,17,24,31,02/07,14

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court Nassau County

DITECH FINANCIAL LLC, F/K/A GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC, Plaintiff against

MUKRAJ SINGH A/K/A MUKHRAJ SINGH, et al Defendants

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered May 30, 2018, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Calendar Control Part (CCP), Courtroom of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York 11501 on February 11, 2020 at 11:30 AM. Premises known as 15 Cornwall Lane, Hicksville, NY 11801. Sec 11 Block 337 Lot 8. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Hicksville, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $678,849.39 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 16677/08.

Richard Kerins, Esq., Referee Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 1400 Old Country Road, Suite C103, Westbury, NY 11590 Attorney (s) for Plaintiff (s).

VERJN257

MIT 5869

4X 01/10,17,24,31

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETINGS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2020 Board of Commissioners Hicksville Water District Town of Oyster Bay Town of Hempstead Notice is hereby given that the Board of Commissioners of the Hicksville Water District, Town of Oyster Bay and Town of Hempstead shall hold, unless otherwise notified, its regular meetings in 2020 at 5:00 p.m. at the offices of the Hicksville Water District, located at 4 Dean Street in Hicksville, New York. The first reorganizational meeting will be held on January 14, 2020 and then

every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month thereafter at the same location and held the same time, unless otherwise posted. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Dated: December 23, 2019

Karl M. Schweitzer, Secretary Hicksville Water District Town of Oyster Bay Town of Hempstead MIT 5870 1X 01/10

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court

Nassau County

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR CARLSBAD FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST, Plaintiff, Against AFSHAN MALIK A/K/A AFSHAN G. MALIK, Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 8/6/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, in the CCP (Calendar Control Part) Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, on 1/21/2020 at 11:30 am, premises known as 548 Adele Place, Bethpage, NY 11714 and described as follows: ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Plainview, in the Town of Hempstead, County of

Nassau and State of New York designated on the tax maps of the Nassau County Treasurer as Section 46 Block 487 Lot 10

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $428,265.32 plus interest and costs. The premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 08404/2015.

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index No.: 08404/2015.

Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee.

Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

Dated: 12/3/19

PB BN 7444 4X 12/20,27,01/03,10

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court Nassau County

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT

DATED AS OF MAY 1, 2006, GSAMP TRUST 2006-HE3, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006HE3, Plaintiff against MARY MURRAY A/K/A MARY

LEGAL NOTICES

C. MURRAY, Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on September 16, 2019.

I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in the Calendar Control Part (CCP) Courtroom of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. on the 28th day of January, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. premises described as follows: All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Said premises known as 273 North 4th Street, Bethpage, N.Y. 11714.

(Section: 46, Block: 78, Lot: 53). Approximate amount of lien $ 424,971.27 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 3901-15.

Joseph J. Ra, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 145 Huguenot Street – Suite 210 New Rochelle, New York 10801 (914) 636-8900

BN 7445 4X 12/27,01/03,10,17

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court Nassau County THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL

MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH TRUST 2006-11, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 200611, Plaintiff against DAVID PIGOTT A/K/A DAVID J. PIGOTT, et al Defendants

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered September 24, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at CCP (Calendar Control Part Courtroom), in the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on February 4, 2020 at 11:30 AM. Premises known as 134 Windhorst Avenue a/k/a 134 North Windhorst Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714. Sec 49 Block 007 Lot 534 & 536. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $457,457.05 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 605930/2018.

IBNY132

Jennifer Ettenger, Esq., Referee.

Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 1400 Old Country Road, Suite C103, Westbury, NY 11590

Attorney (s) for Plaintiff (s).

BN 7446 4X 01/03,10,17,24

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court Nassau County WELLS FARGO BANK N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-NC4 ASSET BACKED PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, vs. ANTHONY G. ALBERGO, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 12, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the CCP (Calendar Control Part Courtroom) in the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 11, 2020 at 11:30 a.m., premises known as 8 Normandy Drive, Bethpage, NY. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 49, Block 193 and Lot 15. Approximate amount of judgment is $994,431.45 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 24620/2009.

Ronald Scott Zimmer, Esq., Referee Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523, Attorneys for Plaintiff Cash will not be accepted.

BN 7447

4X 01/10,17,24,31

Casino trip planned

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas of Hicksville will be hosting a bus trip to the Wind Creek Bethlehem casino (formerly Sands) on Tuesday, January 28.

The cost will be $43 per person, which includes the driver’s tip. There will be a $35 give back for slots play.

Please arrive at 8:30 a.m.  Return will be

approximately 8:30 p.m.

Parking: # 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (on the street in the dead end)

Reservations: Call Barbara at (516) 9355576

Please make checks payable to “CDA”. The first to pay is the first on the bus, etc.

Telling our story:

Dutch Lane Elementary School

Continued from page 6

Free musical performances at libraries in January

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that its Department of Community and Youth Services will be offering free musical performances during the month of January 2020 at local libraries throughout the Town. This is a continuation of the 2019-2020 Distinguished Artists Concert Series, which will continue to run monthly through May 2020.

Upcoming performances for January 2020 include:

• Bay Big Band – Pop Goes the Bay Big Band on Sunday, January 12, 2020 at 2:30 p.m. at the Farmingdale Public Library.

• Just 60’s - The Stories…The Songs! on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. in the Massapequa Public Library.

public/index.page). They work as reading partners with the lower grades in our beautiful new libraries. We want our students to know that they are part of the community. They participate in food drives and other initiatives that provide the opportunity for understanding how they fit into the larger, global community outside of Dutch Lane.”

What is Principal Rossi most excited about at Dutch Lane? “The children - I love greeting them every day at the door. I want them to be excited for the day ahead and to know they are safe in a nurturing environment. All that begins with me.”

Attention students!

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

“The Town’s Distinguished Artists Concert Series has proven to be one of our most popular and enduring programs, as residents flock from all across the Town to see the free musical and dance performances scheduled each month for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “I invite residents to take advantage of these four wonderful performances offered by the Town for free at local libraries throughout the month of January.”

• The History of Rock & Roll – A Trip Down Memory Lane Featuring the Music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s on Sunday, January 26, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Hicksville Public Library.

The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For further information, please call (516) 7977900 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

Get results!

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our Garden City office at 516-294-8900 for more information.

Strong Minds. Kind Hearts.

Ribbon cutting for new school store

Members of the Hicksville Middle School Student Council are pictured with Principal Mara Jorisch (far left) and Student Council Advisor Janice Fitzgerald (back, second from left) in the new school store, “Heartly’s Hub,” at the ribbon cutting. Heartly, the school mascot, attended to add school spirit to the event.

Student Council President and eighth-grader Jack Beaudette officially cut the blue ribbon on December 5 to open Hicksville Middle School’s new school store.

The store will be run completely by Student Council volunteers and will be open at lunch time three days a week and will be self-funded through sales of items students need and want. The students will be using their Chromebooks to compute the sales, so math skills are involved.

“We’ve created our own identity as a

Over a year in the making, Hicksville Middle School opened its new school store with a festive ribbon cutting on December 5. “This is a great addition to our school; it’s going to raise school spirit,” explained Student Council President Jack Beaudette. Vice President Matthew Kilfeather-Bonllo agreed: “It opens up a lot of opportunities for students to get supplies. The store promotes school spirit and helps students to be happy to attend our school.”

school,” shared Principal Mara Jorisch. “Our school colors are blue and white; our school motto is ‘Heart + Motivation = Success’; and we even have our own mascot ‘Heartly.’ Our school store is another important initiative in the process of empowering our students. To begin, the school store will carry basic school supplies, lanyards, seasonal items, and tee shirts sporting our student-designed

school logo. We can be responsive to student requests over the course of the year, adding new items students may want to be able to purchase in school.”

Congratulations to the Student Council and middle school staff, including carpenters who created the store shelving, for all their help in launching “Heartly’s Hub”!

Education that leads to purpose

Welcome to Friends Academy, an extraordinary college-preparatory Quaker school for children age 3 through twelfth grade. Since 1876, Friends Academy has been educating some of the finest students on Long Island.

Today’s research-rich parents make it a priority to consider all of their child’s educational options by comparing online profiles, studying school websites, and touring classrooms and campuses. They know that Long Island options include not only their local public schools, but also parochial and private schools.

One of the finest private schools in New York state, Friends Academy blends an outstanding academic program with its Quaker mission of equity, integrity, and service. This unique education allows Friends Academy to attract an incredibly diverse community of students from over 50 school districts across Long Island.

Friends Academy students experience:

• An unparalleled college prep program that sends its graduates to the finest universities in the U.S.

• Small class sizes, where students receive individualized attentionThe most diverse, well rounded and academically prepared student body on Long Island

• A welcoming community of scholars, artists, athletes, coders

• Master teachers who care deeply about each student

• Quaker values of integrity, equity, and service that are woven throughout a rigorous academic program

• A beautiful 65-acre campus that rivals college campuses

• Outstanding Sports and Performing Arts program & facilities

• Advanced Robotics and STEM curriculum

Call the Friends Academy Admissions Office at 516-393-4244 to learn more or attend one of the school’s upcoming Open Houses. Find out how your child can join the unequaled Friends Academy community and be prepared for the finest colleges and a career and life beyond school.

RSVP at www.fa.org/admissions or call 516-3934244 to experience Friends Academy for yourself at the following Open Houses:

Students in Grades 6-12 Tuesday, January 14th at 8:30 am.

Students, age 3 through Grade 5 Thursday, January 16th at 8:30 am.

All are welcome!

Summit Lane’s got talent

Domenica Scuccimarri (left) and Isabella Matovick performed a lyrical dance together.

Summit Lane fifth-graders from the Levittown Public Schools showcased their unique skills and talents during Summit Lane Elementary School’s fifth grade talent show on Dec. 17. More than 20 fifth-graders performed for the student body in the morning and for families in the evening. Fifth-grader Kailey McKinney served as the student host, while teacher Jennifer O’Brien, social worker Meghan Ruane and teacher Samantha Stansfield coordinated the production.

The fifth grade talent show is a Summit Lane tradition for students to not only showcase their

talents, but to reflect on some the hopes and dreams that they have. Audience members watched as the impressive group of students shared their dancing and singing abilities, their artistic skills, comedy routines, magic tricks and more. McKinney announced each student performer’s name and shared some background about them, in addition to sharing their favorite memory of Summit Lane Elementary School. At the conclusion of the show, the fifth-graders performed “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Fifth-grader Allison Feinstein sang “Landslide,” covered by one of her favorite artists, Kelsea Ballerini.

Fifth-grader Mia Ortiz performed a dance routine at the talent show.

Fifth-grader Anthony Gregoretti (middle) performed a magic trick for students.

Summit Lane fifth-grader Adam Geer presented his comedy routine during the talent show.

Fifth-graders

Jonas E. Salk Middle School hosts holiday jamboree

Students and staff from Jonas E. Salk Middle School in the Levittown Public Schools dressed in festive attire for the school’s annual Holiday Jamboree on Dec. 20. The special event was held in the gymnasium and featured holiday and winter games, activities, crafts, face painting and more for the school community to enjoy. While some of the activities were free, others cost between $1 and $3. All proceeds from the event went to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Student volunteers and organizations ran the various booths which were set up throughout the school

gymnasium. Among the many stations, students and staff had their face painted by studio art students, created their own decorations thanks to members of the Spanish Club, made their own holiday cards with the Peer Tutoring Club and more. Students also participated in raffles, made their own gifts or purchased gift items for family and friends and had them wrapped for free with the help of the school’s Junior Leaders. The event was fun for all and allowed the school community to give back during the holiday season.

courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Seventh-graders Jack Battista

and Aidan Casey played

the

Junior Leader Nick Stallone wrapped gifts for students.

Sixth-graders Maria D’Angelo, Miley Silver and Grace Monniello had fun in the photobooth.

Sixth-graders Caitlin Kilian and Nicholas Sanchez (left) from the Spanish Club ran a decoration station.

Eighth-graders Kaila Velasquez (left) and Rylie Lubliner competed in a penguin race.

Studio art student Samantha Lepore (left) painted seventh-grader Zara Gill’s face with a holiday design.

(left)

Jenga together during

Holiday Jamboree.

Photos