“…Selling
Soccer field dedicated at Stillwell Park
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Andrew A. Monteleone recently attended a special field dedication with the Syosset Soccer Club.
Officials from the Town of Oyster Bay recently attended a special field dedication with the Syosset Soccer Club. This event celebrated the great improvements made to the soccer fields at the facility, which have brought great excitement and pride to the players, their families and the community.
“This is truly a great day for our community, as these fields provide a wonderful venue for our residents, particularly our young people, to play a sport they love while developing friendships and learning about the importance of teamwork and perseverance,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.
Officials also recognized the members of the Syosset Soccer Club for their dedication to the children of the community and gave special recognition to Board Member and Treasurer Everett Boccafola for his 20 years of dedicated service to the organization.
“Without the tireless efforts
See page 8
Volunteers collect over 200 lbs of trash from OB harbor
The Town of Oyster Bay held another successful Fall Harbor Cleanup at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park and north shore beaches. Presented in partnership with Friends of the Bay, volunteers included families, several scouting troops, school environmental clubs and Town environmental experts joining together to help protect Mother Nature from removing litter from the shoreline and waterways.
“We thank all volunteers and environmental organizations for their assistance in protecting our Harbor, one of the crown jewels in our Town,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “This great event not only pro-
motes awareness but also provides participants with hands on opportunities to make a true difference.”
This year’s Fall Harbor Cleanup resulted in 200 pounds of trash being collected from local waterways. Local Girl Scout, recently Silver Award recipient Zoe Nobel, also promoted alternative biodegradable options to plastics, explaining the dangers of marine debris pollution. In total, approximately 80 volunteers attended. To volunteer for future Town environmental events, please visit oysterbaytown.com/ volunteer or call the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943.
The Town of Oyster Bay held another successful Fall Harbor Cleanup
Adelettes shine at state-wide competition
The Adelettes
The talented voices of Syosset High School’s a cappella barbershop group, The Adelettes, took center stage at the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) Annual Convention. The group, which was founded in 1974, earned statewide recognition for their outstanding performance.
Selected through a highly competitive process coordinated by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), the Adelettes were chosen to open the 2025 NYSSBA Convention — a gathering that draws thousands of
school board members, administrators, and educators from across New York State.
The group began the event with a stirring rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner, followed by several additional selections that captivated the audience.
“The Adelettes’ performance was nothing short of inspiring,” said Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Thomas Rogers. "Their harmonies, stage presence, and musicianship represented the very best of Syosset — and the reaction from everyone in the room was pure pride and admiration.”
Bethpage Board of Ed meetings
The Bethpage Board of Education will hold the following meetings during November:
Agenda Meeting - Tuesday, November 18, at 7:30 p.m. at Kramer Lane School
Regular Meeting - Tuesday, November 25, at 7:30 p.m. at Administration Building, District Conference Room
Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti (third left), Councilman Dennis Dunne (second left), and Town Clerk Kate Murray (third right) attended the Levittown Kiwanis Installation Dinner on October 23, at Patrizia’s of Long Island in Hicksville. Also attending were Linda Crozier, Farmingdale Kiwanis President Robin Asighieri, Steve Dalton, and New York State Senator Steve Rhoads.
Levittown Kiwanis Installation Dinner Town drive to support homeless vets
The Town of Oyster Bay, in partnership with VFW Post #6394 in Syosset, encourage residents to support local veterans by donating to a Collection Drive. Throughout the month of November, residents are invited to donate toiletries that will be distributed through the not-for-profit organization Help for Homeless Long Island Veterans.
“From hosting veteran appreciation events to recognizing their service with Hometown Hero Banners in our parks, the Town of Oyster Bay is committed to honoring veterans for their service to our nation,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. “Please join this mission to help bring the comforts of home to veterans by making a donation to our collection drive.”
Most needed items include toiletries: toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, Chapstick, shampoo, conditioner,
deodorant, lotion, cream, razors, shaving cream, combs, brushes, sunscreen, Q-Tip’s, tweezers and nail clippers.
“When I learned that Help for Homeless Long Island Veterans had a ‘Wish List’ of items their veterans desperately need, I knew residents would generously spring into action to help ensure these needs are met,” said Town Clerk Richard LaMarca. “I thank the residents of our wonderful Town in advance for their generosity and support of our veterans.”
Collection Bins will be available on weekdays from 9:00am to 4:45pm at Town Hall North (54 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay) and Town Hall South (977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa).
For more information, please call (516) 624-6380 or email ealter@oysterbay-ny.gov.
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Jericho robotics teams up with Roosevelt students
Jericho's robotics team the Nylock Nuts collaborated with Roosevelt's Roughrider Battalion.
The students exchanged ideas and learned from each other’s approaches to planning and execution.
The shared learning experience blended cultures, perspectives and values of leadership and service.
Jericho’s VEX Robotics team, 11753A Nylock Nuts, led by parent coach Joe Lin, recently joined forces with Roosevelt Union Free School District’s JROTC team, 11575A Roughrider Battalion JROTC, and 11575B Roughrider Battalion HS for a day of collaboration, learning, and innovation.
The Nylock Nuts are composed of sophomores Rayan Hasan, Milo Lin, Liam Lin, Vihaan Malik, and Ian Tam, whose combined talents in design, programming, and engineering drive the team’s success. Students on the Roughrider teams, led by MSGR Rafael Molina and CSM Althea Robinson-Haddo, brought the same dedication to learning, service, and collaboration that are central to the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program.
The partnership brought together students from two different programs who share a common passion for engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork. The Nylock Nuts, known for their creative designs and strong
performance in robotics competitions, worked side by side with the cadets from Roosevelt, whose discipline and leadership are hallmarks of JROTC, a federal program sponsored by the United States Armed Forces in high schools across the country.
Throughout the joint session, students exchanged ideas, tested robot builds, and learned from each other’s approaches to planning and execution. The collaboration became more than just technical practice; it was a shared learning experience that blended cultures, perspectives, and values of leadership and service.
Coach Joe Lin described the collaboration as “a great example of how robotics can connect students across communities while fostering teamwork, creativity, and confidence.” The Roosevelt school team and the Jericho families’ team will continue to promote STEM learning and expand opportunities for all.
Levittown Council selects Halloween House winners
As part of its continued community involvement, Levittown Community Council holds an annual Halloween Horror House contest depicting best decorated homes for the Halloween season. This year’s winners include the following residents, who enjoy sharing the results of their outstanding decorations.
Ilia Stanchfield of 54 Polaris Drive, has called Levittown home for over 20 amazing years, raising two sons here, which she calls “incredible”. Every Halloween, their yard transforms into a spooky spectacular—not just because she loves the thrill of the season, but as a heartfelt tribute to her beloved husband Paul, who passed away in 2023. Ilia says the effort that goes into the Halloween decorations is her way of keeping Paul’s spirit alive, “one ghost and goblin at a time”.
Every Halloween, at 33 Abbey Lane, Levittown, Jeannette and Danny Decicco turn their home into a spinetingling spectacle - all on their own! By night, they dive into a whirlwind of building, decorating, and conjuring up their creepiest creations. It’s not just a labor of love -it’s a fierce and festive family showdown competing with Jeannette’s Uncle Larry who resides at 59 Barrister Road in Levittown. Each year, they push the limits, trying to
out-haunt each other with bigger, bolder, and eerier displays. Their electrifying decorating passion lights up the neighborhood, spreading chills, thrills, and Halloween magic to everyone who dares to pass by.
Nightmare at 15 Starlight Lane in Levittown! Pure joy is what drives Leonardo Palazzolo to go all out for the holidays? Seeing people of all ages light up with smiles and laughter is his way, he says, of creating magic that brings families together for a festive night out. Growing up, he’d wander through the neighborhood, mesmerized by dazzling displays, dreaming of the day he’d create his own. Now, that dream is alive and thriving.as his nine-year-old son Lorenzo is right by his side, acting as the creative mastermind behind the scenes (he’s already tossing out wild ideas for Christmas!). Their decorating adventures have become a cherished tradition, sparking unforgettable bonding moments and uniting neighbors - old friends and new faces alike.
For Leonardo, it’s not just about lights and decorations. It’s about community, connection, and reliving the wonder of childhood. He hopes everyone enjoys the show and feels inspired to jump into the next holiday with full festive spirit!
54 Polaris Lane
33 Abbey Lane
15 Starlight Lane
At The Bristal Assisted Living, we are privileged to celebrate the legacies of our residents, especially the brave men and women who have defended our freedom. Their courage and camaraderie inspire us all.
This Veterans Day, we pay heartfelt tribute to their service and sacrifice. It’s their stories, their spirit, and their unwavering dedication that make our communities truly extraordinary.
We honor their contributions with deep gratitude, today and every day.
Scan the QR Code to learn more about our veteran discount & other available resources or visit: thebristal.com/saluting-veterans
BHS celebrates world language excellence
Tiffany Salcedo, the school's world languages coordinator, opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks.
Bethpage High School inducted dozens of students into three prestigious world language honor societies on Oct. 22 during a ceremony that honored their dedication to mastering French, Italian and Spanish.
The Bethpage High School Performing Arts Center was filled with proud family members and friends as new members joined the Les Arcs de Triomphe Chapter of Société Honoraire de Français, the Luigi Pirandello Chapter of Società Onoraria Italica, and the Loyola Chapter of Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica.
Ms. Tiffany Salcedo, the school’s world languages coordinator, opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks that set the tone for an afternoon celebrating cultural connection and academic excellence. The program then shifted seamlessly into French as Assistant Principal Charlotte Hirsch-Beckman, a native French speaker, addressed the audience before leading the French language students in their oath of membership.
The Italian portion of the ceremony fea-
tured a heartfelt address from Daniella Russo, president of the Italian club, who shared her passion for Italian language and culture with the audience. Italian teacher Teresa Sagarese then administered the oath to the Italian honor society inductees.
In a particularly inspiring moment, Ava Morgan, a tri-lingual student and member of both the Spanish and Italian honor societies, spoke about the transformative power of multilingualism. She shared her personal experience of how learning Spanish had strengthened her mastery of Italian, illustrating the interconnected nature of language learning. Ms. Salcedo then returned to the stage to lead the Spanish language students in their oath of membership.
The ceremony showcased not only the students' academic achievements but also Bethpage High School's commitment to fostering global citizenship and cultural understanding through world language education.
Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
The Italian portion of the ceremony featured a heartfelt address from Daniella Russo, president of the Italian club, who shared her passion for Italian language and culture.
Ava Morgan, a tri-lingual student and member of both the Spanish and Italian honor societies, spoke about the transformative power of multilingualism.
Ms.
New members of the Les Arcs de Triomphe Chapter of Société Honoraire de Français.
New members of the Loyola Chapter of Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica.
New members of the Luigi Pirandello Chapter of Società Onoraria Italica.
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Better health starts with a better health system.
Youth group honored for world peace art contest
This past Tuesday, the youth-led nonprofit Youth Media NY was recognized by the Town of North Hempstead for its role in hosting an inspiring art contest in celebration of World Peace Prayer Day. The event was created in partnership with the Zero Point Meditation Center and the Planting Fields Foundation. Founded by Saisha Puri, Youth Media NY provides free marketing services to small businesses across New York.
With over 20 student volunteers, the organization has already supported seven businesses through social media strategy and content creation. The current leadership team includes Saisha Puri, Eric Qu, Madison Lin, Jacquelyn Liu, Jonathan Bao, Quincy Elyahou, Mariapaula Ramirez, and Avani Mehta. Working alongside Melody Chen from Zero Point Meditation, Puri helped organize the World Peace Prayer Day Art Contest to inspire youth creative expression. Participants were invited to share original artwork representing their personal visions of peace, whether global, emotional, or spiritual, using any artistic medium.
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The contest awarded students across multiple divisions. The grand prize winner received $200, while first and second place winners in the Middle and High School divisions earned $100 and $75 respectively. Congratulations to grand prize recipient Suri Tan, whose thoughtful and moving depiction of peace truly embodied the event’s mission. Additional winners include Vivian Bortree (1st, High School), Chloe Chung (2nd, High School), Chanlene Liu (1st, Middle School), and Pei Shan Lin (2nd, Middle School).
Special congratulations also go to Puri and Chen, whose leadership and hard work made the event possible. In recognition of their outstanding contributions to youth engagement and community service, both received official citations from the Town of Hempstead. They extend their gratitude to Shulian Liang and Councilwoman Christine Liu for their support of the event and partnership with Youth Media NY. Puri and Chen’s dedication to empowering young voices through art and advocacy continues to inspire students across Long Island and beyond.
tine Liu, for organizing the
Prayer Day Event
From page 8
of people like Everett, many of the young players in the program would not have had the opportunity to play the game they love,” said Councilman Andrew Monteleone. “Everett has carried on the traditions of his father, who was one of the founding members of the Syosset Soccer Club, and his efforts have been instrumental in keeping the club’s programs running smoothly and ensuring that thousands of children in the community have the opportunity to play and grow through soccer.”
Saisha Puri, founder of Youth Media NY, and Melody Chen, Youth Media and Syosset Art Department member, with Citations from the Town of North Hempstead, issued by Councilwomen Chris-
World Peace Prayer Day Art Contest. Citation received at World Peace
at Planting Fields Foundation. Event hosted by Zero Point Meditation Center.
Suri Tan, grand prize winner for the World Peace Prayer Day Art Contest, holding her winning painting along with Dr. Gina Wouters, president and CEO of Planting Fields Foundation.
SHS students selected for All-State music honors
Forty-six Syosset High School student-musicians were selected as 2025 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State musicians. Of these, 24 students were selected to participate in AllState Ensembles, where they will have the opportunity to work with world-class conductors for three days leading up to a performance at the historic Eastman Theater in Rochester during the NYSSMA Winter Conference this December.
Syosset High School had the highest number of All-State musicians in New York State — nearly double that of any other school.
Congratulations to Syosset High School’s 2025 NYSSMA All-State Musicians: Gianna Affatato, Eliot Bih, Hailey Chi, Michelle Chen, Daniel Chen, Aiden Chantemsin, Jason Feldman, Katherine Fei, Joe Funatomi, Samuel Gerson, Abigail Ho, Ethen Hong, Alice Huang, Arvin Huang, Derek Huang, Emma Huang, Joshua Kim, Olivia Kim, Wonbin Kim, Harrison King, Simon Lee, Jonathan Lee, Madeline Lee, Darren Leung, Skylar Leung, Shawn Lim, Valerie Liang, Jimmy Lin, Austin Ma, Joel Park, Jaden
2025 Syosset All-State Student Musicians
Nandika Salhotra, Sahana Shah,
This Week at the Syosset Public Library
Friday, November 7, at 10:00 a.m.
Simply Stronger with Balance (VIRTUAL)
Instructor: Mindy Vasta
Handheld weights, resistance bands and balls will help improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. Includes a balance segment to enhance posture, core strength, and proper alignment of muscle groups. Exercises can be performed sitting or standing. Equipment recommended but not required. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary. org. The Zoom link will be sent out once you register.
Tuesday, November 11, at 11:00 a.m.
Monumental Care: The Evolution of the National Mall (VIRTUAL)
Presenter: Carolyn Muraskin, DC Design Tours.
Over nearly 250 years, the National Mall has evolved as the center stage of our Nation's Capital. The founding fathers envisioned the District of Columbia as a shining beacon of democracy for a newly independent nation with the National Mall as its core. From pasture lands to military training grounds and from mud flats to grand monuments, hear the tumultuous and lesser known history of our most enduring national landmarks. No registration needed.
For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary. org.
Tuesday, November 11, at 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday Trivia Nights! (Salute in Plainview)
Join us at Salute in the Plainview Shopping Center and get ready to put your wits to the test and your drinks to the side (for just a second) – it’s bar trivia night! Your chance to flex your knowledge, compete with friends, and win epic bragging rights. Whether you’re a pop culture guru, a sports fanatic, or just here for the fun, there’s something for everyone. Grab your team, grab a drink, and let the trivia games begin. Event will take place at 397A South Oyster Bay Road, Plainview, NY 11803. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.
Thursday, November 13, from 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Seniors of Syosset
Drop-In (IN-PERSON)
Funded through New York State Office for the Aging, Seniors of Syosset is a Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community program (NNORC-SOS). The program will offer social work support, community health nursing, and subsidized transportation to local medi -
cal appointments, free bus transportation for shopping, as well as other activities and services. Whether you are a senior in need of support, someone who wants to volunteer helping the community, or just someone who wants to learn more, we hope you will drop-in and get involved.
Thursday, November 13, at 2:00 p.m.
The Culprits of the Nuremberg Trials (IN-PERSON)
Presenter: William Reszelbach, author, “Through the Eyes of a Child of Holocaust Survivors”
This lecture will be an exposé of the 22 people indicted for war crimes at the Nuremberg Trials in 1946. These men were directly responsible for instituting the Holocaust. The trials were held from 1945-1946 and focused on prosecuting senior Nazi officials for crimes against peace, war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Thursday, November 13, at 7:00 p.m.
Writing Workshop: World Building (VIRTUAL)
Presenter: Erin Coughlin
Learn how to create an authentic, fascinating fictional world that your audience or readers will love! Participate in fun writing prompt exercises guaranteed to enrich and develop your stories, and enhance
your characters. Discover tricks used by popular storytellers that will strengthen your writing skills and boost your creative confidence. Writers of all levels, genres and mediums welcome! Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary.org.
Friday, November 14, at 10:00 a.m.
Simply Stronger with Balance (VIRTUAL)
Instructor: Mindy Vasta
Handheld weights, resistance bands and balls will help improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. Includes a balance segment to enhance posture, core strength, and proper alignment of muscle groups. Exercises can be performed sitting or standing. Equipment recommended but not required. Registration needed. Register at syossetlibrary. org. The Zoom link will be sent out once you register.
Friday, November 14, from 10:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Driver’s Safety Course (IN-PERSON)
Completion of this program entitles you to a NYS insurance discount and point reduction. Bring your NY State driver’s license and a pen to class. In person registration ONLY. For drivers of all ages. Fee: $33.00
Pedro, Katherine Purdy, Kyle Scott,
Nikhil Shah, William Shih, Ryan Su, Taylor Yeh, Caleb Yu, Caleb Yun, Angela Zhang, Leon Zhang,
Carolyn Wang, Russel Wong, and Lisa Yasinov.
A Rendezvous with Progress of the Present, Horrors of the Past in Ho Chi Minh City
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
The War Remnants Museum in Hanoi evokes profound shame of the horrors inflicted in our name.
Our Day 10 Discovery Bicycle Tours itinerary would have us visit the Reunification Palace – the former Presidential Palace, renamed to commemorate the April 30, 1975 victory of President Ho Chi Minh’s forces. But by the time we finish lunch, there is not enough time to visit the Palace, so we are taken to the War Remnants Museum instead. But this is such an important museum, dedicated to telling the story of the American War (we call the Vietnam War), it should not be missed and I would have made time to visit.
The War Remnants Museum is housed in what used to be the US military’s intelligence headquarters during the Vietnam War and was originally known as the “Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes”. It is one of the most visited museums in Vietnam, attracting 500,000 visitors every year, two-thirds of whom are foreigners. This is apparent during our visit, as well.
The exhibits are detailed, emotional and intense – the most stirring being the photos for magazines and newspapers including Life Magazine, as well as a kind of shrine honoring the reporters and photojournalists killed on the field of battle.
I visited this museum five years ago. Now that I have seen countryside and people, I see these photos differently, more in context. The faces in the photos were real people who you see in the faces of the people today..
Leaving the museum, our sightseeing continues.
There is lots of Western influence
here – Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city and its commercial capital, and had been under French and Western control for more than a century. It seems very much a bustling, cosmopolitan city.
One of the best examples is the famous Ho Chi Minh City Central Post Office, unchanged since it was built in the French style in the 1880s.
For dinner, we get to experience Saigon’s famous street food on Ho Thi Ky Flowers and Foods Street and Li leads us from one stall to another to sample these local delights. .
city. Instead, we are bused 2 ½ hours to the Mekong Delta. Our 20-mile bike route takes us through villages, rice paddies, orchards.
We come to Mr. Kiet’s Ancient House, a faithfully restored upper-class 1838 home. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site, the home is still occupied by Mr. Kiet’s widow who operates a small restaurant in the orchard garden, where we have a most delightful lunch.
Finishing our bike ride, we board a boat for a short cruise on the Mekong River, stop into a factory that makes candy from rice (like popcorn!), and have another ride on a traditional boat. Get the required visa at Vietnam’s website (evisa.gov.vn), where the fee is $25 (if you use a visa service it costs something like $197), but give yourself enough time to get the confirmation. Purchase travel insurance – especially for the medical and evacuation coverage. You can check a site like travelinsurance.com to get recommendations.
To see more about the Vietnam Adventure Cultural Bike Tour Experience visit: https://discoverybicycletours.com/12-day-vietnam-adventure-cultural-bike-tour-experience/.
Discovery Bicycle Tours, 2520 W. Woodstock Rd., Woodstock, VT 05091, 800257-2226, 802- 457-3553, info@discoverybicycletours.com, www.discoverybicycletours.com
© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. November 7, 2025
When we return to the Majestic Hotel, we go up to its gorgeous rooftop bar with stunning views of the river and the street activity.
The Majestic is an elegant Frenchstyle hotel which first opened in 1925 and the first Vietnamese-managed hotel to earn five-star status. There is a stunning outdoor pool, a gorgeous restaurant where we enjoy breakfast, and a beautiful lobby lounge.
Biking, Cruising in the Mekong Delta
Our last full day in Vietnam is spent biking but mercifully, not in the
Enjoying street food in Ho Chi Minh City © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
Week of November 9-15, 2025
If you’re seated while reading these words -- as I am writing them -- you’re most likely convinced that you and the room around you are stationary. What if I were to tell you, however, that this just is not true?
It might be hard to believe, but when we view things from a more cosmic perspective, we begin to understand just what an incredible journey we and our planet are on. Some of these motions might be familiar to you; others may surprise you. But all carry us in at least seven different directions at more than a million miles per hour!
Let’s start with the simplest. Everyone has noticed how the sun rises in the east, drifts slowly westward across the daytime sky, and sets in the west each evening. Though ancient skywatchers didn’t realize it, we’re watching a remarkable illusion caused by the rotation of our Earth in the opposite direction. Every second of every minute of every day, our world spins like this while carrying us in middle-northern latitudes around at nearly 900 mph.
And what about how the nighttime sky changes from season to season? Why do we see Scorpius in the summer and Orion in the winter? Well, that’s because our planet is orbiting the sun
Mr. Earth’s Wild Ride
and allowing us on the nighttime side to gaze outward in different directions as we go. This journey carries us at 66,000 mph -- fast enough that an average human lifetime will transport us some 45 billion miles through space.
Don’t be fooled, though. Our sun isn’t static; it’s moving too. It’s towing our Earth and entire solar system behind at 12 miles per second in the direction of the bright star Vega, appearing high in the western sky this week. No need to worry about a collision; even at this extraordinary speed, we’d need 5,300 human lifetimes to reach that star!
But wait, there’s more!
Even our Milky Way galaxy is spinning and carrying us along at about 140 miles per second. Only two dozen times over the 5-billion-year history of our planet have we passed this way; the last time, the first small dinosaurs were beginning to appear. The next? Who knows!
In addition, our Milky Way is careening at 50 miles per second toward the Great Andromeda galaxy, one of some 50-plus such structures that form a galactic collection known to astronomers as the “Local Group,” which itself is falling toward the Virgo supercluster at another 150 miles per second.
And if that’s not enough, beyond lie even more galaxy superclusters as far as the largest telescopes can see. All
appear to be receding from each other as if hurled from a huge cosmic explosion 13.8 billion years ago. Between these superclusters glows the faint, ghostly echo of this primordial fireball through which we speed at more than a million miles per hour.
Is there more? What about the universe itself? Is it turning about an even
Cross My Legs and Hope to Die
larger universe? Is it speeding along in some unknown direction at an even more incredible speed? No one knows for sure, but it sure is fun to ponder the dizzying possibilities!
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
One morning, I had a big cup of coffee, as I usually do, and then I got in the car and drove 40 minutes to a clothing store I had been curious to check out. I don’t normally drive 40 minutes to go shopping, but since I am a stay-athome mom and everyone knows we stay-at-home moms just spend our time shopping and eating bonbons, I figured, “What the hey?”
Having had the aforementioned monster cup of coffee 40 minutes earlier, I naturally had to go to the bathroom the instant I arrived at the store.
“Please tell me you have a bathroom I can use before I start shopping,” I begged the salesgirl. She gave me a bored look.
“We don’t have a public restroom,” she said before going back to folding clothes.
For a while I tried to explain the merits of having a restroom for customers to use, but her eyes glazed over and I realized that A) she couldn’t care
less, and B) if I didn’t stop arguing with her and actually get to a bathroom really soon, I would end up shopping for Depends.
“Well, where is the nearest bathroom?” I asked.
“There’s a coffee shop around the corner.”
Around the corner turned out to be two blocks away, and by the time I arrived, I was about to blow. But when I tried the door to the restroom, it was locked. I waited a respectful amount of time and then knocked. When no one answered, I figured there was either a deaf person in the restroom or it was one of those public bathrooms you need a key to get into. Five minutes later, when the deaf person failed to emerge, I approached an employee.
“Do I need a key to get into the restroom?” I asked her.
“Yes. But the restroom is for patrons only.”
I gave her a blank stare.
“You need to buy something to use the restroom,” she shouted. Clearly she
thought I was deaf too.
“Are you serious?” I asked. I looked around. The place was empty. It wasn’t likely that I, a nonpaying customer, was going to interfere with the restroom needs of any actual paying patrons.
“Are you going to buy something?” she asked me impatiently.
I shook my head. “If I buy a cup of coffee, then I will use your bathroom, go back to the store two blocks away, and in 10 minutes, I will have to come back and use your bathroom again,” I argued. “Then, you will make me buy another cup of coffee, and I will use your bathroom again and then go back to the store, and 10 minutes later, I will have to go to the bathroom again. Is this really what you want???”
“You have to buy something,” she said again.
I was furious. I was indignant. But I was also desperate. “Fine!!! What’s the smallest thing you have?”
“You can get donut holes. They come in a box of 10, 25 or 50.
“I meant small as in amount, not
small as in size,” I explained slowly. “Huh?”
I sighed. “I’ll take one donut hole.”
“Just one?”
“Yes.”
“Would you like glazed or powdered?”
“I DON’T CARE! Just give me any hole and the key to the bathroom!”
She handed me one lone powdered donut hole, rang me up and handed me the key to the city.
When I came out, I gave her the key back.
“Can I help you with anything else today?” she asked robotically.
“Yeah,” I replied acidly. “You’re out of toilet paper.”
Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
LOST IN SUBURBIA
Earth orbits the sun at a speed of 66,000 mph, and as the sun itself moves, it tows Earth (and the rest of the solar system) along with it at a speed of 12 miles per second.
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
I have my hopes and optimistic feeling about the generation gap but deep down inside I doubt the generation gap will ever be “solved.” What helps is when people of all generations do their best to keep communicating - even when the inevitable misunderstandings pop up.
Here’s a case in point: just the other day I was watching a cop show and when the older cop said to the younger novice cop, “Don’t try to be Serpico,” she said, “Who?”
Laughing out loud, I remembered Serpico from the 1973 film about Frank Serpico who was an honest New York City Police Department officer who became a whistleblower as he exposed widespread corruption within the department in the 1960s and early ‘70s. The lead role was played by Al Pacino. The novice hadn’t heard a word about Serpico, however.
It’s easy for me to be amused by these things but then I stop myself. Being more patient is my goal because that novice cop wasn’t even born in 1973. Whether it’s on TV, while talking with friends and relatives at parties, or simply chatting with my younger nieces and nephews when spending time with them, various examples of the generation gap arise. They look quizzically at me or I look quizzically at them and somehow someone explains the word or the reference and we move on. C’est la vie! Such is life.
Some people say the generation gap is overly exaggerated - that the misunderstandings between one generation and another aren’t that big a deal. But when a younger relative of mine gives me a blank stare or hesitates, not knowing my reference, it makes me stop and think. What’s up, Alfie? They honestly don’t know what I’m talking about.
We laugh and carry on. I could really give them some examples of what the old-timers in my family - and on my block growing up in Rockville Centreused to say when I was a kid.
Many hands make light work. A stitch in time saves nine.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder. Never look a gift horse in the mouth. Early to bed and early to rise makes you healthy, wealthy and wise
When I say any of these phrases to the younger generations, they get strange looks on their faces. Especially when I mention the idiom about going to sleep early and getting up early.
And when I once said to my niece, Erin, “A stitch in time saves nine,” she paused then asked, “What does that mean?”
After I explained that if you sort out a problem immediately it may save a lot of extra work later Erin got it but I had to agree with her that it is indeed a very old expression that we don’t hear much anymore.
One of my favorite expressions that I use pretty frequently is: “A watched pot never boils.” I call it a favorite because how often am I in the kitchen waiting for something to finish cooking when it seems to take forever? My nephew, Sam, was visiting recently when this one came up.
While warming a pot of cider on the stove for Sam and three other relatives, I kept stirring it and thinking it wasn’t quite warm enough. I mentioned something about “A watched pot never boils” when he laughed and raised his eyebrows. That’s one of the first signs that there’s a generation gap.
Sam asked, “What’s that?” and I replied that if I keep looking at the pot it will never warm up enough but if I step away for just a minute it will be fine. “It’s Murphy’s Law in effect,” I said and we all laughed.
Sam added that he’s never used that phrase before nor did the younger relatives and I found that amusing because it’s one of my most used idioms. In exact words, it means that time seems to pass more slowly when you are anxiously waiting for something to happen.
Benjamin Franklin is credited with using this phrase long, long ago and since then many people have uttered it. Be patient. That’s not something the
younger kids like but then you could have said the same thing about my generation in the 1970s.
According to some experts, the major reason the generation gap is getting bigger is that the difference in age is increasing. People are living longer and they are working longer, too. So when the different generations meet at work, you can see instances of the generation gap.
I mentioned the song, “Riders on the Storm” and they didn’t know it was The Doors from 1971. Most music lovers know The Doors burst on the music scene when they released “Light My Fire” in 1967.
“Whiter Shade of Pale” by Procol Harum came out in 1967 and they asked, “Procol who?”
So I went on to sing one of my favorite songs of that era, Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” which was released as a single in 1971 and sure enough I got the same blank stares from both nieces and nephews because many of them weren’t born before the year 2000.
John Fogerty was the songwriter and lead singer of CCR, and as a reminder of what a great song it is, some of the lyrics go:
“Someone told me long ago There’s a calm before the storm I know, it’s been comin’ for some time When it’s over, so they say It’ll rain a sunny day I know, shinin’ down like water
I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain?
I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain?
Comin’ down on a sunny day …”
When “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” played over the airways, we kids were bopping around and I was Sweet 16. This is not to say that some young people wouldn’t remember those great singers and musical groups but … they are few and far between.
All I know is you don’t have to be a Golden Oldie to like the music from the 1960s and ‘70s. When you’re tapping your foot and bopping along, you know those songs are good.
BY TOM MARGENAU
In early October of every year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases its much-anticipated report on changes (usually increases) to the Consumer Price Index over the past 12 months. (It was a little late this year due to the government shutdown.) Why is this little esoteric government report -- actually called the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers -- so popular? Because for the past 50 years, it’s been the report that determines the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that Social Security beneficiaries will get the following year.
Because my column has a long lead time, what I am reporting here isn’t news to most of my readers. As I’m sure you already heard, all 75 million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries’ checks are going up 2.8% in 2026.
I always dread mentioning COLAs in this column because every single time I do, I am flooded with emails from readers complaining that the increase is not enough.
Yet here’s the rub: Many economists and social planners believe Social Security COLAs are too generous! (I’ve explained why in past columns, but don’t have the space to get into that argument today.) That’s why most discussions of long-range reform for Social Security include proposals to reduce cost-of-living increases.
But for now, that’s neither here nor there. So, let’s get back to the 2026 Social Security COLA. Due to these increases, the average monthly retirement check will be $2,071 in 2026, a $56 increase from the 2025 level. The maximum Social Security check for a worker turning full retirement age in 2026 will be $4,152, compared to $4,018 in 2025. And please note that $4,152 is the maximum for someone turning full retirement age in 2026. That does not mean it is the maximum Social Security payment anyone can receive. Millions of Social Security beneficiaries get much more than that, primarily because they worked well past their FRA and/or delayed starting their benefits until age 70.
Here’s another important point about the COLA. Many readers have been asking me if they must file for Social Security benefits in 2025 in order to get the COLA that’s paid in January 2026. The answer is no. The COLA will be built into the benefit computation formula. So even if you don’t file for Social Security until next year, or some subsequent year, you’ll still get the 2.8% increase.
Although this is a Social Security column, I must mention the upcoming increase in the Medicare Part B premium, which is deducted from Social Security checks for most people. As I was writing this column, the 2026 basic Part B premium had not yet been announced. But it is projected to be $206.50. That’s $21.50 more than the 2025 rate. And as has been the case for more than 20 years now, wealthy people will pay more than the basic premium.
Social Security COLA for 2026
I don’t want to get into the complicated issue of Medicare premiums other than to make this quick point. Even though they are linked in the minds of most senior citizens, Social Security and Medicare are entirely separate programs, administered by entirely separate federal agencies, and they have entirely separate rules and regulations regarding their benefit and payment structures. For example, I already explained how Social Security COLAs are figured. The Part B Medicare premium increase has nothing to do with the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ consumer price index. Instead, by law, it must be set at a level that covers 25% of the cost of running the program. Taxpayers pick up the remaining 75%. (And again, wealthy people pay more than the 25% share.)
Another measuring stick called the “national wage index” is used to set increases to other provisions of the law that affect Social Security beneficiaries and taxpayers. Specifically, this includes increases in the amount of wages or self-employment income subject to Social Security tax; the amount of income needed to earn a “quarter of coverage;” and the Social Security earnings penalty limits.
The Social Security taxable earnings base will go up from $176,100 in 2025 to $184,500 in 2026. In other words, people who earn more than $184,500 in 2026 will no longer have Social Security payroll taxes deducted from their paychecks once they hit that threshold. This has always been a very controversial provision of the law. (Elon Musk pays the same amount of Social Security tax as his plumber!) I think it’s a pretty good bet that any eventual Social Security reform package will include an increase in that wage base.
Most people need 40 Social Security work credits (sometimes called “quarters of coverage”) to be eligible for monthly benefit checks from the system. In 2025, people who were working earned one credit for each $1,810 in Social Security taxable income. But no one earns more than four credits per year. In other words, once you have made $7,240, your Social Security record has been credited with the maximum four credits or quarters of coverage. In 2026, the one credit limit goes up to $1,890, meaning you will have to earn $7,560 this coming year before you get the maximum four credits assigned to your Social Security account.
People under their full retirement age who get Social Security retirement or survivor’s benefits but who are still working are subject to limits in the amount of money they can earn and still receive all their Social Security checks. That limit was $23,400 in 2025 and will be $24,480 in 2026. For every two dollars a person earns over those limits, one dollar is withheld from his or her monthly benefits.
There is a higher earnings threshold in the year a person turns full retirement age that applies from the beginning of the year until the month the person reaches FRA. (The income penalty goes away once
a person reaches that magic age.) That threshold goes up from $62,160 in 2025 to $65,160 in 2026.
A couple of other Social Security provisions are also impacted by inflationary increases. For example, people getting disability benefits who try to work can generally continue getting those benefits as long as they are not working at a “substantial” level. In 2025, the law defined substantial work as any job paying $1,620 or more per month. In 2026, that substantial earnings level increases to $1,690 monthly.
Finally, the Supplemental Security Income basic federal payment level for one
person goes up from $967 in 2025 to $994 in 2026. SSI is a federal welfare program administered by the Social Security Administration, but it is not a Social Security benefit. It is paid for out of general revenues, not Social Security taxes.
If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net. COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Why smart sellers do a pre-inspection before listing their home
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything — and not just to potential buyers. Before the “For Sale” sign even goes up, there’s one set of eyes that can make or break your transaction: the home inspector’s. For many Long Island sellers, that inspection doesn’t happen until after the offer comes in. But increasingly, savvy homeowners are flipping the script by ordering their own pre-inspection before listing.
It’s a growing trend, especially in a market where buyers are cautious, inventory is tight, and every deal can hinge on the results of an inspection report. A pre-inspection gives sellers an inside look at their home’s condition — the good, the bad, and the potentially expensive — before the buyer’s inspector ever steps foot inside.
The Reality of Today’s Market
In the past few years, the Long Island housing market — much like the rest of the U.S. — has been on a roller coaster. Interest rates rose sharply, buyer demand cooled, and yet prices have remained stubbornly high thanks to a lack of inventory. As of late 2025, homes on Long Island are still commanding strong prices, but buyers have become far more cautious and selective.
After years of bidding wars and waived inspections, buyers are now reasserting their right to know exactly what they’re getting. Many are hiring thorough inspectors and negotiating aggressively for repairs or credits once issues are uncovered. For sellers, that can mean unwelcome surprises — and lost leverage — halfway through a deal.
That’s where a pre-inspection changes the game.
What a Pre-Inspection Is (and Isn’t)
A pre-inspection is a professional home inspection ordered by the seller before listing the property for sale. It’s typically the same comprehensive review a buyer’s inspector would perform — examining the home’s major systems, structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more.
What it’s not is a city code inspection or appraisal. It’s simply a way to identify issues that could affect the sale — from small maintenance items like loose railings or leaky faucets to larger concerns such as foundation cracks or outdated wiring.
On Long Island, where many homes are older (especially those built before 1980), pre-inspections often reveal age-related issues that sellers may not be aware of. Things like outdated oil tanks, aging cesspools, or minor leaks in basements can spook buyers, even if they’re not major deal-breakers. Addressing these proactively can make your home appear well cared for — and reduce negotiation headaches later.
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
The Key Benefits for Sellers
1. Avoid Deal-Killing Surprises
Imagine accepting a great offer, only to have the buyer’s inspection reveal a list of costly problems you didn’t know existed. Suddenly, they’re demanding thousands in repairs or threatening to walk away.
A pre-inspection helps prevent that. It allows you to identify issues before the buyer does — and either fix them or disclose them upfront.
Full transparency builds trust and gives buyers fewer reasons to renegotiate later. If your report shows that the roof is 10 years old, the boiler was serviced annually, and minor repairs have already been addressed, buyers see value and confidence — not risk.
2. Price Your Home More Accurately
A pre-inspection gives you a clear understanding of your home’s true condition, which helps your agent price it appropriately. If your home is in great shape, you can justify a higher asking price. If there are issues you choose not to repair, your agent can factor that into pricing strategy — rather than being blindsided later by a low appraisal or renegotiation.
In a balanced market, honesty pays. Sellers who overprice and then get hit with inspection issues often end up chasing the market downward with price reductions.
3. Strengthen Your Negotiations
When buyers know that a professional inspection has already been done, it removes one of their strongest leverage points in negotiations. You can even provide the report to interested parties and highlight the repairs or maintenance you’ve completed.
This transparency often reduces the need for contingencies or credits. Buyers see that you’ve taken care of the home — and that you’re not hiding anything. On Long Island, where bidding wars are less frenzied than they were a couple of years ago, this can give your listing a competitive edge.
4. Speed Up the Sale Process
Time kills deals. When inspection issues come up late in the transaction, they often delay closings or even derail them entirely. A pre-inspection smooths the process by addressing potential obstacles in advance. It signals to buyers (and their agents) that your home is “move-in ready,” which can lead to faster offers and shorter escrow periods.
5. Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Perhaps the biggest benefit is peace
of mind. Selling a home is stressful enough without worrying about what might pop up in an inspection report. A pre-inspection lets you take control of the process and approach the sale with confidence.
What Does a PreInspection Cost?
The cost of a pre-inspection varies based on home size and location, but on Long Island, expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $700 for a typical single-family home. Larger properties or homes with additional structures (like detached garages or accessory apartments) may cost more.
While that’s an upfront investment, it’s often far less than what you might lose in negotiations later. For example, a minor plumbing issue you can fix for $250 could turn into a $2,500 credit demand from a buyer who overestimates the problem.
When and How to Schedule a Pre-Inspection
The best time to schedule your pre-inspection is before your home officially goes on the market, ideally right after you’ve met with your real estate agent and before the professional photography or open houses begin.
Once you receive the report, review it carefully with your agent. You’ll have three choices for each item noted:
1. Repair it before listing.
2. Disclose it to potential buyers (and price accordingly).
3. Do nothing if the issue is purely cosmetic or minor.
Your agent can help prioritize which repairs offer the best return on investment — for instance, fixing small electrical issues or servicing the HVAC system can go a long way toward showing buyers the home is well maintained.
Should You Share the Pre-Inspection Report?
This is a key strategic decision. Some sellers choose to share the full report openly, while others only disclose that a pre-inspection was done and list the repairs completed.
There are pros and cons to both:
• Sharing the report shows transparency and builds trust, but it also legally obligates you to disclose all findings — even minor ones.
• Keeping the report private gives you more flexibility, though you’ll still need to disclose known defects under New York State’s Property Condition Disclosure Act (or, alternatively, pay the $500 credit to the buyer in lieu of disclosure).
Your real estate agent and attorney
can advise on which approach is best for your situation.
The $10,000 Mistake That Wasn’t Consider a recent example from Nassau County. A homeowner in Garden City was preparing to sell a 1950s colonial. Their agent recommended a pre-inspection. The report uncovered a slow leak in a basement pipe and outdated electrical outlets that weren’t GFCI-protected.
The total cost to fix both issues? About $800.
Had the sellers skipped the pre-inspection, the buyer’s inspector would have found those issues, likely inflating repair costs and leading to a $10,000 price reduction request. Instead, the sellers completed the repairs, documented them, and sold their home at full asking price in less than two weeks. That’s the power of being proactive.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:
National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate).
Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions. National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geo-thermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 6474289 or email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate. com
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Soup is a favorite on chilly days
Hearty Sweet Potato Soup
Cooler temperatures are on the horizon, which means soups will be back on the menu in full force.
A filling soup can be the ideal meal when the mercury drops, particularly when it incorporates
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1 red onion, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 teaspoon ground cumin
fall flavors and ingredients. This “Hearty Sweet Potato Soup” was inspired by Ethiopian spices and it incorporates layers of flavor with a base of earthy sweet potatoes. It’s thick enough to be a
1 teaspoon berbere spice mix
3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into small cubes 5 cups vegetable stock
Handful of canned (drained) chickpeas, butter beans or red kidney beans
1) Add the onion to a large pan with the olive oil and sauté for 10 minutes on a low heat. Add the spices and garlic and fry for a further few minutes.
2) Next, add the sweet potato
meal, and pairs well with fresh, crunchy bread. Try it, courtesy of “Rainbow Bowls” (Sourcebooks) by Niki Webster. Serves 2 to 4
3 tablespoons sun-dried tomato purée
Pinch of chili flakes (optional) Sea salt and black pepper
Toasted seeds or dukkah
2 to 3 tablespoons coconut cream
cubes, vegetable stock, sun-dried tomato purée and chili flakes (if using), cover and simmer for 20 minutes on a low heat until the sweet potato is tender. Season well.
3) Turn off the heat and blitz until smooth using an immersion blender. Ladle into serving bowls and top with the chickpeas, seeds, coconut cream, and a drizzle of olive oil.
New Natl. Honor Society members inducted at BHS
Bethpage High School celebrated academic excellence and community dedication on Oct. 29 as 116 students were inducted into the National Honor Society during a ceremony held in the school's Performing Arts Center.
Surrounded by proud family members and friends, the new inductees were welcomed into the prestigious organization that has recognized outstanding high school students for more than a century. Senior Stacy Martinez set the tone for the evening's celebration, performing piano as guests arrived and took their seats.
The National Honor Society, founded in 1921, honors students who demonstrate excellence across four essential pillars: Scholarship, Service, Leadership and Character. Membership requires students to maintain a minimum grade point average while also showing meaningful commitment to their school and community through service projects, leadership roles and strong moral character.
Principal Nick Jantz and NHS chapter advisor Susan Sciglibaglio addressed the audience, offering congratulations and reflections on the significance of the honor. Chapter president Anthony Cataldi also spoke, joined by fellow NHS officers who each highlighted one of the four pillars while participating in a traditional candle-lighting ceremony to symbolize the values that guide the organization.
The ceremony culminated with the inductees reciting the oath of membership before being individually recognized. Each new member received a certificate and signed the official book of membership, marking their formal entry into this distinguished society.
The induction represents not only academic achievement but also a commitment to continued service and leadership within the Bethpage community and beyond.
Nick Jantz addressed the audience, offering congratulations and reflections on the significance of the honor.
Chapter president Anthony Cataldi also spoke.
Principal
Each new member received a certificate and signed the official book of membership.
Francis Hospital & Heart Center… nationally ranked in 7 adult specialties
Year after year, St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a national leader across multiple specialties. With exceptional physicians and an unrivaled patient experience, St. Francis sets the standard for superb care and expertise.
No other hospital on Long Island has been nationally ranked for Heart & Vascular as often as St. Francis—now 18 times by U.S. News.
chsli.org/st-francis-hospital
Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library
Friday, November 7
10:00 a.m.: St. Francis Outreach Bus - Open to adults 18 and older -- no appointment needed. Services include: Brief cardiac history review, Blood pressure check, Simple blood test for cholesterol and diabetes, Flu vaccines, and Patient education and referrals. Take a step toward better health -- stop by for your free screening!
Saturday, November 8
9:30 a.m.: Defensive Driving with It is Well Driving School - Completion of this program entitles you to a NYS insurance discount and point reduction. Bring your NY State Driver License and a pen to class. Bring your lunch. Coffee and tea will be available. Cost: $30.00 In-person registration ONLY. Make your check payable to “It Is Well Driving School” Check must be submitted when signing up. No refunds unless class is cancelled.
Sunday, November 9
2:00 p.m.: Creative Drawing Workshop (Grades K–3) - NY Times artist Cara Wang will be here to
read a story, then instruct children on how to make their own drawing based on the book.
2:00 p.m.: Sheri Miller ConcertGifted singer-songwriter Sheri Miller composes and performs her soulful, anthemic love songs, while accompanying herself on guitar and piano. She also sings a wide range of uplifting, popular classic favorites from The Beatles to Judy Garland, in her feel-good, family-friendly concert. Since releasing her record “ Waking Up To This Miracle Life ” , Sheri has received fantastic national and international press, over a million streams on Spotify, and performed her music on “ Today in Nashville ” , an NBCaffiliate station, one of the highest rated, most watched morning shows in the country.
Tickets are required. Non-ticket holders will be seated as space allows.
Monday, November 10
5:00 p.m.: Tai Chi for BeginnersJoin world-renowned martial arts expert Master Ted G. Li for an enriching tai chi experience. With over five decades of training, teaching, and leadership—including a master’s
See what’s happening at your library!
Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, like classes, lectures, concerts, movie screenings, and more, all for free or cheap!
degree from Beijing Sport University and roles as head coach of the Beijing Wushu Sanda team and professor at Beijing Public Security University— Master Li brings unmatched expertise and insight.
Whether you're new or experienced, this is a rare opportunity to learn from a world-renowned master. This class introduces the Tai Chi Five Elements Form, a foundational practice that blends fitness, self-defense, and internal energy cultivation. Known for its graceful, flowing movements, Tai Chi promotes harmony of body and mind, boosts immunity, and supports overall well-being.
$25 per person for 6 sessions, non-refundable.
7:00 p.m.: Chess (Grades 2–5)Learn different moves and develop skills to become a proficient chess player.
Tuesday, November 11
9:30 a.m.: Adult Walking Club (Weather Permitting) - All levels, all abilities are welcome. Join us for a 45-minute walk around the neighborhood. It’s an opportunity to get some exercise, meet new people, spend time with a friend and enjoy some conversation. Meet us in front of the library. Participants must wear sneakers and bring a bottle of water.
11:00 a.m.: VIRTUAL : Guided Meditation for Self-Healing with Patricia Anderson - Join Pat for one or all of the meditation sessions to bring harmony and balance into your life. Learn the beautiful practice of Jin Shin Jyutsu to help your body heal and keep you relaxed.
5:00 p.m.: Owl Tales & Feathers (Grades K–2) - Join us for a feather-filled program as we dive into the fascinating world of owls. Explore amazing owl facts, read some owl tales and create a clever owl craft.
6:00 p.m.: Cooking
Demonstration with Chef Rob: Sweet Potato MuffinsMake Thanksgiving extra special this year by making Chef Rob’s sweet potato muffins that everyone will go crazy for. Please bring a large and medium bowl, muffin tin, rubber spatula and a whisk.
$5 per person, non-refundable.
Wednesday, November 12
10:30 a.m.: 1,2,3 Full S.T.E.A.M Ahead (18 Months–5 Years) - This preschool STEAM program includes music movement, fine and gross motor development and storytelling followed by a craft!
2:00 p.m.: Senior IDs with the Nassau County Office of AgingThe Nassau County Office of Aging offers free senior I.D. cards for Town of Oyster Bay residents, featuring
personal data, physician contacts, emergency numbers, and allergies. Seniors also receive an 8.5-inch by 8-inch form for their refrigerators. These cards and forms can help medical technicians quickly access vital information during emergencies. No registration required!
6:30 p.m.: VIRTUAL : Creative Writing with Sandy KassimirDo you like to write but don't know where to begin? You can write on any topic and genre. It can be a short story, poetry, fairy tale, a reflective memoir, fiction or non-fiction. There are no limitations. Through both writing and reading we hope you will will be inspired.
Thursday, November 13
6:30 p.m.: What ’ s It Worth?
Treasures in Your Attic with Adam Zimmerman of Syl-Lee Antiques - Discover if your cherished possessions are hidden treasures! We welcome jewelry, costume jewelry, knick-knacks, and silver, but please note that books will not be appraised. Limit of personalized appraisal of 1 item per person.
7:00 p.m.: Thankful Tales (Grades K–2) - Celebrate gratitude with a cozy fall story, then get creative with a fun, book-inspired art activity!
Friday, November 14
11:00 a.m.: Paint Workshop with Madhumita Sen - Celebrate the season of gratitude with a peaceful painting session featuring vibrant songbirds perched among golden autumn leaves. In this guided workshop, you’ll learn to use bold colors and clean lines to create a whimsical forest scene that captures the beauty of togetherness — perfect for the Thanksgiving spirit. No experience needed. All materials provided. Let your creativity take flight this Thanksgiving!
$5 per person; non- refundable. 2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL : Great Performers: Kathy Bates with Marc Courtade - Kathy Bates is a highly regarded American actress with a career that spans over five decades. She began with stage performances, becoming one of the finest character actresses of her generation. Her breakout performance in “ Misery ” at age 43 in 1990 made her a major film presence and won her the Academy Award. Bates is multi-talented and versatile, and continues to attract audiences, even at an age when she was considering retirement.
4:00 p.m.: Read to a Donkey! (Grades 1–4 ) - Practice your reading skills by having a donkey as your audience. Share a story with a very attentive and enthusiastic listener.
