Career & Technical students compete at state conference
Sewanhaka Central High School District’s CTE students competed at the SkillsUSA New York State Conference.
Twenty-four Sewanhaka Central High School District students in the Career and Technical Education program competed at the SkillsUSA New York State Conference, held from April 23-25 in Syracuse.
SkillsUSA is an organization designed to help students become world-class workers, leaders and responsible Ameri-
can citizens while ensuring that the country maintains a highly skilled workforce. Sewanhaka’s CTE students participate in regional, state and national career competitions each year.
New Hyde Park Memorial High School student Daniela Garcia, who earned first place in Senior-Level Cosmetology and qualified for SkillsUSA Nation-
als this summer, stated, “I’m thankful for all my teachers and the people that believed in me, but most of all I’m so proud of myself and for all my hard work. I love cosmetology; I believe that beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself and being a part of this transformation in others is one of my goals.”
Outdoor animal feeding law approved despite concerns
BY RIKKI MASSAND
The Floral Park Board of Trustees unanimously approved Local Law No. 2 of 2025 during a public hearing on Tuesday, May 6. The new law regulates the outdoor feeding of animals and wildlife within the village, despite objections from several residents and animal welfare advocates.
The law amends previous legislation—Local Law No. 7 of 2024—by introducing guidelines aimed at preserving pub-
lic order and protecting property. Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald said the law is intended to “contribute to the public welfare... by declaring and enforcing certain regulations on the feeding of animals and / or wildlife.”
Resident concerns Floral Boulevard resident Jeff Carstens said the new law ignores public feedback and claimed the village failed to consider concerns previously raised about treatment of
BY KASSARA MCELROY
The Floral Park - Bellerose community will head to the polls on May 20 to vote on the proposed 2025-2026 school budget, which was outlined at the Thursday, May 8th meeting of the Floral Park - Bellerose Board of Education. The $40,359,720 plan reflects a 2.07% increase over the current year, roughly $820,000, and includes new investments in school safety, curriculum updates, and student support services.
If approved, the budget would raise the tax levy by 1.942%, bringing in an additional $534,016 in local revenue and pushing the total levy just over $28 million. For the average homeowner, this would mean an estimated tax increase of $156 annually, or about $13 per month.
District leaders say the spending plan reflects the priorities of the community and
FPB celebrates “many cultures, one community” event
Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District celebrated its community’s diverse cultures and traditions at the inaugural “Many Cultures, One Community” multicultural event, held at John Lewis Childs School on May 1.
The evening’s festivities began with a lively performance by the County Cork Pipes and Drums, a bagpipe marching band from Queens. Interim Superintendent of Schools Lisa Ruiz thanked the Shared Decision Making Committee for their efforts in putting the event together.
Following the opening performance and remarks, attendees explored more than 15 countries in the school’s gymnasium. Staff members and students’ families volunteered to represent their countries at booths, offering food, games and crafts. Along with the homemade food, local restaurants Casa Margaritas, La Chozo Del Gordo, Luigi’s and Mann Sarka also generously donated small food samples to help aid in the celebration.
Some of the countries featured included Bangladesh, Ecuador, Germany, Greece, India, Korea, Mexico, Pakistan and Spain. Students from both Floral Park-Bellerose School and John Lewis Childs School completed “My Family’s Flag” activities, which decorated the gymnasium’s walls.
Along with the booths in the gymnasium, students could learn dance steps to the bachata, merengue and salsa in a “Dancing Through the Caribbean” lesson.
hosted its inaugural “Many Cultures, One Community” event on May 1.
FOUR VILLAGE STUDIO
The Author Corner Stephanie Larkin Barbara Josselsohn ~ “The Lost Gift to the Italian Island” Historical Fiction Inspiring Stories
Bill Corbett, Jr.
“Vision Long Island” ~ Creating Smart Growth Communities
FPFD: Red Alert
Larry King, AEMT
“The Nassau County Fire Service Academy” ~ Robert V. Hughes, Jr.
Walter Gosden “Motor Car Lighting: Gas to Electric (1900 -1940)” 9:30 PM Wes Houston Presents…
Wes Houston “The Lovin’ Kind” ~ Lisa Burns & Sal Maida …Remembering Sal
Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District
Photo courtesy of the Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District
4VS to present “The Poster: Our WWII Gold Star Veterans”
Four Village Studio will be debuting a very special installment of “Community Spotlight” this Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, at 9:00 p.m. Titled “The Poster: Our WWII Gold Star Veterans”, the show takes an up-close look at an incredible framed document long displayed at the American Legion Hall Post #334 in Floral Park. Comprised of original newspaper obituaries, the poster details the individual stories of local World War Two veterans that paid the supreme sacrifice to protect our country and preserve our freedom. Digitally remastered and set to music, these images and descriptions tell the tales of allegiance, heartache, and resilience experienced within our community.
Produced by Four Village Studio staff members James Green and Francis Brandt, “The Poster” was recently previewed for
the membership of Post #334 and received an enthusiastic response. “We believe that this program is worthy of being rebroadcast every Memorial Day,” said James Green. Co-producer Francis Brandt added, “It was an honor to work on such an important piece of our community’s history.”
Four Village Studio programs are broadcast on Cablevision’s Optimum Channel 18 and Verizon's Fios Channel 28. “The Poster” and many other 4VS shows may also be viewed online from the studio’s website by going to the “Watch Now” link at www.4VS.org. Visit “4VS.org” anytime to watch 4VS shows, see the extended 4VS program schedule, scroll through the 4VS Community Billboard, access the 4VS Weather Station, or simply get more information about the studio.
Own a local business? We
FP yoga studio celebrates first anniversary
Here and Now Yoga, Wellness & Arts Collective, LLC is proud to celebrate its one-year anniversary serving the Floral Park community with a special Open House event on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at its studio, located at 22 Verbena Avenue, Floral Park, NY 11001.
Founded by Michelle Ingkavet Cavanagh and Dina Denis-Paolucci, Here and Now Yoga is a welcoming, inclusive space where yoga, wellness, and the arts are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. During this one-year anniversary celebration, community members are invited to meet the founders and several teachers, enjoy light refreshments, and participate in complimentary 20-minute interactive yoga demos. The event will also feature a raffle drawing and one-dayonly membership specials.
“We have seen lots of growth among our members as they are standing taller, moving around with ease, and finding moments of peace in their daily lives,” said Here and Now Yoga co-founder Dina Denis-Paolucci. “At Here and Now Yoga, we support people in all stages of their wellness journey. We have a robust schedule and variety of classes offered seven days
a week. We offer unique and enriching wellness workshops such as Sound Baths and Reiki Circles. As we approach our second year of business we are expanding our arts offerings to include a variety of dance classes for absolute beginners to dancers looking to maintain their training. We are also excited to include more personalized opportunities for our members to participate in such as mindset coaching, Reiki, past life regression, energy healing sessions and so much more!”
Co-founder Michelle Ingkavet Cavanagh reflects, “I am so proud, honored and humbled to witness the growth of our members, some of whom have been a part of our community from the very beginning, last summer – to see our students of all ages and mobilities getting stronger physically, mentally and emotionally is remarkable. The evidence is right before my eyes. But what warms my heart even more are the friendships, connections, laughter and love I see, hear and feel flowing in and around the people who come together at our beautiful, bright, welcoming studio space. The light in me, bows to the light in each of them.”
Budget hearing held ahead
From page 1
aims to sustain ongoing programs while addressing evolving student needs. Information about budget priorities, frequently asked questions, and polling locations is available on the district website.
Expenditures & revenues
As in previous years, the majority of the district’s spending – about 78% – is allocated to employee salaries and benefits. Other expenditures include classroom supplies and materials, equipment, BOCES services, and debt service. Detailed year-over-year comparisons are available in the presentation shared during the meeting and posted on the district’s website.
Local revenue, including tax levies and PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreements, continues to make up the largest share of the district’s funding, accounting for 70% of the total budget. State aid represents ~24%, with the remaining 1% derived from sources such as community services and interest income.
District officials noted that state aid projections recently released by the Governor’s office align with expectations. A conservative estimate anticipates approximately $21,000 in additional state aid, though final figures are still
pending. They also acknowledged that ongoing discussions in Albany about reconfiguring state education funding remain on their radar for future planning.
Capital Reserve Fund
In addition to the operating budget, the board introduced a proposal to establish a new capital reserve fund to support long-term facility improvements outlined in the district’s five-year capital plan. The reserve would function as a dedicated savings account, allowing the district to fund future repairs and renovations without borrowing or causing sudden tax increases. If approved by voters, the fund would be capped at $9,000,000 and remain active for up to ten years. Any expenditure from the reserve would require separate voter approval.
What happens if the budget fails?
If the proposed budget fails at the polls, a contingency budget would take effect, freezing the tax levy at its current level. This would require $534,016 in cuts, potentially affecting program enhancements, staffing levels, instructional materials, and could result in facility usage fees across the district.
Community concerns
The meeting also provided time for public comment, with two community members speaking out on issues related to student health and safety.
One parent asked the district to consider conducting a survey of teachers and administrators to better understand perspectives on indoor air quality in schools. The request was followed up with an email to administrators seeking feedback on the matter.
Another parent shared troubling transportation incidents, including a bus breaking down with the driver reportedly leaving the scene, and a separate occasion where their young daughter was dropped off at the wrong stop and missing for 30 minutes. “How can we work together as a community to make things better?” they asked. “How can we make sure this doesn’t happen again?”
District officials responded that improvements have been implemented. Teacher aides now use checklists to track student pickups and drop-offs to prevent similar issues. However, the parent voiced continued concern that the same driver is still operating the route. “We don’t feel safe, and we have to sacrifice our jobs because we feel we have to take our daughter,” they said.
Interim Superintendent of Schools Lisa Ruiz, acknowledged the severity of the situation and confirmed that it had been addressed internally. While unable to comment on specific personnel matters, she assured parents that the driver’s conduct had been reviewed and that transportation procedures were reinforced with all relevant staff. She also offered to follow up directly with the family. “This should never have happened,” she said.
What’s Next
Residents will vote on the proposed school budget and capital reserve fund on May 20, 2025. All budget materials and presentations are available for review on the district’s website. The Board of Education’s next regular meeting is scheduled for June 5.
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BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN
Outdoor animal feeding law approved despite concerns
From page 1
stray and feral cats.
Claudia Kessler, a retired attorney from Roslyn Heights who runs a nonprofit cat rescue group, also raised transparency concerns. She said she struggled to find the proposed law on the village website and copies of Local Law No. 2 were not made available at the meeting room.
Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald responded that the public hearing was adequately noticed through a legal advertisement in the newspaper and with posting of Local Law No. 2 on the Village of Floral Park website a week prior (April 29th).
Kessler was concerned that the Board did not consult with people who spoke up during public comments six months ago.
Jeff Carstens told the Board of Trustees the revamped village website is “still poor.”
“I entered my email address for village alerts and have gotten zero – multiple email addresses are entered. To have a law implemented or to have this public hearing on the local law, without the document for people to review at least 24 hours ahead of time is disgraceful, folks!” he said.
ARMOR PARADE
To start the May 6th public hearing, the mayor read aloud the “Legislative Intent and Purpose” behind Local Law No. 2. He noted the Board is amending Village Code to address the feeding of animals and wildlife within Floral Park, with the purpose of preserving the public peace and good order in the village, “and to contribute to the public welfare and preservation and protection of properties and persons of the village, by declaring and enforcing certain regulations on the feeding of animals and/or wildlife.”
Kessler said, ““We had meetings where we thought we could participate in drafting this. It seems like this will be finalized now when we could have been participating in the draft before this. After all the time we’ve spent Local Law No. 7 of 2024, which I’ve never seen the final version of, now we have this draft on the night of the meeting – it seems that you do not want our participation and you don’t want comments. The Board wants to do what they want to do, that’s just my take,” Kessler said.
Support for the Law
Not all public comments opposed the measure. Walnut Avenue resident James Dodson supported the law, saying it gives the village the ability to
intervene in problematic situations.
“My understanding is the purpose behind it is not for the village to go into every house and check if anyone has three cats, nothing like that, but this will allow us the ability for enforcement – if there is an issue, and there was one on the West End where there were a lot of cats and that affected a lot of other residents. I’m in support of this and I understand the village will not police it, unless there is a need to and if there’s an issue,” Dodson commented.
Jeff Carstens questioned the viability of Local Law No. 2 in efforts to stop hoarding and a congregation of feral cats at any sites within the village.
“As a result, the village went and created an amendment to a local law that people objected to from the beginning, and that does not stop the promulgation of feral cats and does not give the village permission to enter somebody’s house without probable cause and a warrant. This law does not do that either, and I can guarantee that. The gentleman (Dodson) was saying you can stop a hoarding situation but you can not enter somebody’s house without a warrant – you will not get a warrant from this regulation. The amended law does not do what it was originally intended to do, which is to prevent a hoarding situation,” he explained.
Claudia Kessler also objected to grouping domestic animals with wildlife in the law, arguing that feral cats, squirrels, and birds are not fed in the same way.
“The inclusion of animals and wildlife together as far as protocol for feeding makes no sense whatsoever because people feed squirrels because squirrels are not fed the same way that the feral cats or the colony cats are fed. People throw peanuts and bird seed down anywhere and no one says anything,” she said.
Mayor Fitzgerald responded that feeding wildlife has caused issues in the past, including one near the LIRR tracks and another involving pigeons, both of which were addressed by the village.
“We had a recent incident on another block where people were feeding birds and it caused a major issue that we took care of because of that – there was that. We also try to take care of the pigeons by the LIRR station/tracks when people have been feeding them, and it’s been on the record if you would like to take a look at that too.”
See page 15
BY SHANE PAROUSE
Inheriting wealth can be a burden and a blessing. Even if you have an inclination that a family member may remember you in their last will and testament, there are many facets to the process of inheritance that you may not have considered. Here are some things you may want to keep in mind if it comes to pass.
Keep in mind this article is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice, so consider speaking with a legal or tax professional before making any decisions with an inheritance.
Take your time. If someone cared about you enough to leave you an inheritance, then you may need time to grieve and cope with their loss. This is important, and many of the more major decisions about your inheritance can likely
Managing an inheritance
wait. You may be able to make more informed decisions once some time has passed.
Don’t go it alone. There are so many laws, choices, and potential pitfalls – the knowledge an experienced professional can provide on this subject may prove critical.
Think of your own family. When an inheritance is received, it may alter the course of your own financial strategy. Be sure to take that into consideration.
The taxman may visit. If you’ve inherited an IRA, it is important to consider the tax implications. Distributions to non-spouse beneficiaries are generally required to be distributed by the end of the 10th calendar year following the year of the account owner’s death. For the year of the account owner’s death, the RMD due is the amount the account owner would have been required to withdraw, if any, but did not withdraw.
Beginning the year following the owner’s death, the RMD depends on certain characteristics of the designated beneficiary. A surviving spouse of the IRA owner, disabled or chronically ill individuals, individuals who are not more than 10 years younger than the IRA owner, and children of the IRA owner who have not reached the age of majority may have other minimum distribution requirements.
Stay informed. The estate laws have seen many changes over the years, so what you thought you knew about them may no longer be correct.
Remember to do what’s appropriate for your situation. While it’s natural for emotion to play a part and you may wish to leave your inheritance as it is out of respect for your relative, what happens if the inheritance isn’t appropriate for your financial situation? A financial professional can help determine if the
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inheritance fits with your overall goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.
Copyright FMG Suite.
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Daniel Gale Foundation supports “Dress for Success”
The Daniel Gale Foundation, the philanthropic division of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, is collecting new and gently used business attire in support of its 25th annual clothing drive for Dress for Success. Donations can be dropped off at Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty offices. Pictured here (l-r), real estate advisors Lowell Ackerman, Veranika Johnston and Jessica Crowley.
The Daniel Gale Foundation, the philanthropic division of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, has announced the launch of its 25th annual clothing drive in support of Dress for Success, an initiative that reflects the organization's enduring commitment to community service and empowerment.
From now through the end of May, all 29 Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty offices from Brooklyn and Queens to the Hamptons will be collecting new or gently used professional clothing and accessories to help local women dress for success—literally. Items being accepted include dress and pant suits and separates, blouses, shoes, coats, handbags, and other business-appropriate attire. All donations will benefit Dress for Success, which supports unemployed and underemployed women by providing professional attire and tools to help them succeed in their job search and career development.
“Whether it’s the first impression a property or a person makes, no one understands the power of presentation
like a real estate agent,” said Deirdre O’Connell, Chief Executive Officer of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty. “But this drive is about so much more than clothes—it’s about helping women feel seen, valued, and equipped to take the next step in their careers and lives.”
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s partnership with Dress for Success began in 2000, when agents and employees were first invited to participate in a company-wide clothing collection. Since then, the initiative has become a cherished annual tradition, with the company donating truckloads of high-quality business attire that has supported countless women on their journeys to economic independence and personal empowerment.
Community members are invited to join the effort by dropping off donations at a Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty office. To find the nearest location, visit www.danielgale.com/locations.
The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why for 25 years at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating personalized experiences that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. See for yourself. Explore all of our locations in the tri-state area. thebristal.com
Trade a Ho-Hum Summer Vacation for an Epic Adventure
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Still looking to trade a ho-hum summer vacation for a memorable adventure? Here are some ideas:
“No Passport” Adventures: 2025 Travel Trend
“No-Passport Vacations” are hot this summer, with American travelers eager to explore incredible destinations right here in the United States. Recent reports show a surge in domestic travel, with 60% of people wanting to see more of their own country.
Here are 10 unforgettable “No-Passport” adventures, from backcountry biking to horseback riding and chasing the Northern Lights (but don’t forget your Real I.D.):
Backcountry Biking in Utah: The Aquarius Trail Hut System offers a backcountry mountain biking experience like no other in the region. A system of five huts furnished with beds, a bathroom, a fully stocked kitchen and solar power has been strategically placed along a 190-mile route through some of Utah’s most scenic backcountry and best mountain biking trails. https://aquariustrail.com/
American Road Trip
2.0: Nothing is more rejuvenating than jumping in your car and heading out on an American road trip, and AdventureGenie is the world’s first AI-powered, end-to-end system for planning one. It offers the most immersive, innovative and intelligent adventure travel planning tools available. Whether starting from a curated GenieTrip or creating a fully customized and personalized journey
L.L. Bean’s Maine Guided Adventures: The famed adventure retailer now offers inclusive multi-day guided outdoor adventures in Maine. Among them, Maine Island Lighthouse Birding Trip; Maine Coastal Inn Kayaking Trip; Allagash River Canoe Trip; and Maine Island Kayak Camping Trip. Visit https://www. llbeanoutdoors.com/overnight-trips (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
from your own ideas, AdventureGenie has you covered. https://adventuregenie.com/
Alaska Lodge Adventure: Discover the rugged beauty of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska on a guided five-day trip with Adventure Life that combines outdoor exploration with lodge-based comfort. Tour Kennicott Town and learn about its mining history, hike to a hidden lake or across a glacier, try ice climbing, fly into the backcountry for a day of wilderness exploration, and paddle a packraft through pristine waters. https:// www.adventure-life.com/alaska/ tours/18770/wrangell-st-elias-nationalpark-lodge-based-adventure North Rim of Grand
Canyon: Providing gently rolling terrain of lung-expanding dimensions, the North Rim has been long-held as sacred ground to hikers and cyclists alike. Escape Adventures is offering a family-friendly, five-day camping and mountain bike adventure that includes riding singletrack to Monument Point, hiking into the canyon on backcountry trails, pedaling across the Kaibab Plateau and conquering the Rainbow Rim trail before descending to Indian Hollow. https://escapeadventures. com/tour/grand-canyon-north-rimmountain-bike-tour/ Yellowstone Fly Fishing: Take an expertly guided float down the Yellowstone River on one of Flying Pig Adventures› custom rafts
while you enjoy the spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and world-class fly fishing. Just outside Yellowstone National Park, the upper stretches of the river are lightly fished, but hold large numbers of native cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Private access to the river allows guides to take guests where the fish are without fighting the crowds. https:// www.flyingpigrafting.com/yellowstone-fly-fishing
Wine Country Weekend: North of San Francisco, the winding Russian River meets the dramatic Pacific coastline, shaping if not sheltering a world all its own. Escape Adventures offers an idyllic three-day road biking tour in this romantic landscape, quilted with a colorful patchwork of old growth redwoods, fruitful vineyards, historic towns and beautiful gardens. https:// escapeadventures.com/tour/napa-valley-weekend-road-bike-tour/
Cowboy Up in Montana: Settle in at the Circle Bar Ranch in central Montana for horseback riding and other classic dude ranch adventures. On the ranch’s 520 acres and nearby national forest land, ride a trusty steed through open prairies, across the Judith River or up a ridge for a breakfast cookout, go hiking, try fly fishing, sport shooting or archery, or tour a Yogo sapphire mine by UTV. At the end of the day, enjoy traditional ranch recipes and locally inspired dishes, and cozy accommodations in a historic cabin, the lodge or Ranch House. https://www.circlebarranch. com/
Jackson Hole Tiny House: Fireside Jackson Hole redefines the traditional vacation with
Continued on next page
Reba helps make a graduate’s dream come true
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
Singer Reba McEntire has always had a passion for music and for learning. Reba Nell McEntire was born in McAlester, Oklahoma, on March 28, 1955, and was raised on a ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma. Named after her maternal grandmother, McEntire was one of four children born to Clark and Jacqueline McEntire. Her mother wanted to become a country singer and she taught all of her kids to sing but she was a public school teacher, librarian and secretary.
Influenced by the country music of Bob Wills, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, Barbara Mandrell, and Patsy Cline, in college Reba McEntire attended local dances at the Oklahoma-Texas border so she could dance to Wills’ music, saying, “It didn’t get any better than dancing to Bob Wills music.”
McEntire’s music is a mix of traditional country music as well as country pop, mainstream pop, soul and R&B.
Reba McEntire was raised on a 40-acre ranch, which her father, a steer roper, steadily expanded on over the years with his rodeo winnings. McEntire’s father expected all the children to work on the ranch. She began riding horses at the age of three and by the time she was seven she was gathering cattle from before daylight until after dark.
“I loved growing up in Oklahoma,” she says. “We worked hard and we played hard. There was always a sense of unity with all of us working together.”
The family drove to watch her father compete. “Our car didn’t have a radio, so my mother taught us to sing in harmony,” she says. “It seemed like we were always singing. Eventually, we formed a vocal group called the Singing McEntires with myself, my brother, Pake, and my younger sister, Susie. We sang at rodeos, and when we were older we got some paying jobs in honky-tonks and dance halls. At the end of the night, we would each make about $13.” Reba McEntire was unsure about pursuing a professional country music career, however.
She continued to help out on her family’s ranch during her college years. In 1974, McEntire’s father suggested she take a job opportunity singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma
City. She contacted family friend and rodeo announcer Clem McSpadden who helped her get hired for the gig.
Performer Red Steagall heard McEntire sing at the Rodeo and he was so impressed that he invited her to Nashville to record demos for his music publishing company. That day Jacqueline McEntire asked Steagall if he was able to help get her children a recording contract. After returning to Nashville, Steagall contacted her in early 1975 and said, “I can’t take all three. But I could take Reba. She’s got something a little different.”
After recording McEntire’s songs in March 1975, Steagall sent her tapes around Nashville and got her a deal with PolyGram/Mercury Records in November. Her first single was “I Don’t Want To Be a One Night Stand.” Before she signed that music contract McEntire arranged to finish college at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and she graduated in 1976 with a major in elementary education and a minor in music.
Her mother always insisted that she get her college degree and pursue her musical career afterwards. Reba McEntire always wanted to be a public school teacher and she agreed that having a backup plan was important in case music didn’t work out.
Her most significant mentor? McEntire says it’s her mother. “She’s a very smart woman,” McEntire has said. “She is the one who taught me that if I was going to do something then I’d better do it. My mama wanted to be a country singer when she was young, but the opportunity wasn’t there for her. She put aside her ambitions to encourage her children to dream and take advantage of opportunities, no matter how small.”
In 1977 McEntire debuted at the Grand Ole Opry which was one of her greatest dreams. McEntire’s first #1 song was “Can’t Even Get the Blues” from her 1982 album “Unlimited.”
In 1984, McEntire signed with MCA Nashville Records and released “My Kind of Country,” which produced two #1 singles: “How Blue” and “Somebody Should Leave.”
That same year, she won the Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year Award. She would go on to win this award for four consecutive years from 1984-1987 and become the most-nominated female in CMA Awards
history. In 1986 McEntire joined the Grand Ole Opry and was named CMA Entertainer of the Year.
Reba McEntire has a long list of albums and accomplishments. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, she has won 15 American Music Awards, 13 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 6 CMA Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, an ACM Career Achievement Honor, the National Artistic Achievement Award from the U.S. Congress and more.
Reba McEntire believes in learning something new every day. She also enjoys celebrating the big milestones in life. She helped make a moment special for the drummer in her band, Garth Justice, on his graduation day. It was in December 2022 and McEntire said that night was Justice’s graduation ceremony from Lee University in Cleveland,
Tennessee.
She interrupted their regular scheduled programming to have an impromptu graduation ceremony. They we were supposed to be in Florida a month prior not that night but her drummer, Garth Justice, was supposed to receive his degree in business management. With his family present, Justice appeared on stage in cap and gown and Reba McEntire gave him his diploma.
Garth Justice had chosen to do the concert with Reba rather than attend his graduation ceremony so she brought the graduation to him. McEntire said, “May I present to you, the class of 2022 of Lee University, Garth Justice.” After the on-stage graduation ceremony, Reba and the band played one of her classic songs, “Is There Life Out There” in honor of Justice’s achievement.
A very Happy Graduation to all!
BY TOM MARGENAU
More Clarification of the ‘Spousal Bump’
I don’t think I coined the term. But I may have helped spread it around the world of Social Security. I’m referring to the “spousal bump.” Every time I hear it, it makes me chuckle. It sounds like some “dirty dancing” move by an old married couple in a shady nightclub! But of course, I know that’s not what the spousal bump is. It is a term that refers to the extra benefits a wife would get as a spouse on her husband’s Social Security record.
I’ve written past columns about this issue. But I continue to get questions from readers about it. And let me point out that the questions always involve the benefits a wife can get on her husband’s record. Even though Social Security laws are gender neutral, society hasn’t been. A husband’s own Social Security benefit is almost always higher than his wife’s own Social Security benefit. So, a wife is much more likely to qualify for a bump on her husband’s record. But if you happen to live in a household where the wife makes more money than the husband, then it’s the guy who could be eligible for the extra benefits. Anyway, here are a couple of recent questions about the so-called spousal bump.
Q: I turn my full retirement age in July 2025 I am scheduled to get $3,000 from Social Security if I file then. But everything I read and hear from socalled experts tells me to wait until 70 before I file for benefits. If I wait until then, I should get about $3,900 per month. One reason I am encouraged to do this is the extra widow’s benefits my wife would get, assuming I die first. She is 66. She took her Social Security at 62. She only gets $550 per month. I have two questions. How much of a spousal bump would she get if I filed now at my full retirement age? I’m assuming it’s half of my FRA benefit. And how much would she get if I wait until age 70 to file? I’m assuming it’s half of my age-70 rate.
A: Well, you’re wrong about your wife getting a bigger bump if you wait until 70. More about that in a minute. But first, here is roughly how they will figure your wife’s spousal benefits if you file at your full retirement age. They would take her full retirement rate and subtract that from one-half of your full retirement rate. The difference will be added to her reduced retirement benefit. So let’s put some numbers to that.
I’m going to guess that your wife’s full retirement rate would have been about $735. Then we subtract that from one-half of your full retirement rate, or $1,500. That leaves $765. That would be her spousal bump. We add that to her reduced retirement benefit of $550 -- meaning she would get $1,315 in total benefits if you filed for your Social Security to start in July.
And if you waited until age 70 to file, she would get exactly the same rate. Why? Because the benefits paid to a spouse of a 70-year-old retiree are always based on the
husband’s full retirement age rate, not his age-70 rate.
So, if you were thinking you would increase her spousal bump by waiting until age 70, you’re wrong. She would get a bump of $765, or total benefits of $1,315, whether you take benefits now or wait until age 70. In other words, there is absolutely no advantage in waiting until age 70 to increase your wife’s potential spousal benefits on your record -- while you are alive.
But there is an advantage in waiting until age 70 if your goal is to increase your wife’s potential widow’s benefits. And that’s because even though a wife does not share in the delayed retirement bonus you earn for waiting until age 70, a widow does.
If you wait until 70 to file for benefits, and then die, your wife’s total benefits would be bumped up to your $3,900 level. In other words, she would get her own $550 retirement check, as well as an additional $3,350 in widow’s benefits.
On the other hand, if you filed for benefits now and get your full retirement rate of $3,000, then your wife’s total benefits after you die would be $3,000 -- including her own $550 and $2,450 in widow’s benefits.
So, you and your wife just have to decide if she wants an early spousal bump by you filing now, or a larger “widow’s bump” later on if you wait until age 70 to file.
Q: I am about to turn 62. I’m trying to decide if I should file for benefits now or wait until my full retirement age. My FRA benefit would be $900. My age 62 benefit would be $630. My husband, who was always the primary breadwinner, is also 62, but he plans to wait until 67 to file for his Social Security. His benefit will be $4,200. So, I will eventually get more in spousal benefits on his record. But will I reduce my eventual spousal bump by filing for my own reduced retirement benefits now?
A: You would get the same spousal bump whether you file for your own benefits now or wait until your full retirement age to file. It’s just that if you file now, the bump would be added to your reduced retirement benefit. Whereas if you wait and file for your own benefits at your full retirement age, the bump would be added to your full FRA benefit.
As explained in the prior answer, here is how they would figure your spousal bump. They would take your FRA benefit rate ($900) and subtract that from one-half of your husband’s FRA rate ($2,100). The difference ($1,200) would be added to your own benefits.
In other words, if you file for your own benefits now, you’d start getting $1,830 in total benefits once your husband reaches FRA and you file for spousal benefits. (That’s your reduced retirement benefit of $630 plus the $1,200 bump.) If you wait until your full retirement age to file for your benefits and spousal benefits on your husband’s record, you’d start getting $2,100 in total benefits (Your FRA benefit of $900 plus the $1,200 bump.)
On first blush, waiting until your full retirement age to file seems like the smarter move. (You end up with an extra $270 in benefits.) But if you wait until your FRA to file, you would have missed out on $37,800 in reduced retirement benefits between 62 and 67. The question becomes, do you want that extra $37,800 for the next 5 years? Or do you want to forego that to get an extra $270 per month from your full retirement age on?
If you have a Social Security question,
Continued on next page
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
BY MARY HUNT
By a show of hands, let me see how many of you have a credit card in your name. Uh-huh, I see those hands. It appears that my audience falls right in line with national averages: About 70% of you have at least one credit card. And how would you categorize your relationship with your card issuer?
If you are carrying credit card debt, it really bugs you that the company takes so much of your money in interest and fees. In fact, some cardholders admit to feeling helpless in the strong arms of the credit card giants who charge big, whopping fees on top of double-digit interest rates. It has been said that the borrower becomes a slave to the lender. Truer words could not be spoken of how it feels to be in credit card debt.
CHEAPSKATE
Haggling for Dollars
charged waived.
Just ask. That’s right; simply pick up the phone and ask. On the back of your credit card is a toll-free number for customer service. Call and courteously make your request. Provided you have been a good customer, you may be surprised to learn just how quickly the company will comply with your request.
Why?
Because there is a lot of competition
consider making: Lower my interest rate; waive my annual fee; raise (or lower) my credit limit to improve my credit score.
Not long ago, I suggested this to a group of blog followers and asked them to share their experiences.
Deborah reports: “My interest rate was lowered 2 percentage points, and I was given 2,500 free miles, which I would never have thought to ask for.”
So, are you ready to do something about this? Sure, I know you are doing your level best to get out of debt and keep a credit card as a tool -- not a noose. But even now, as you are working your way out of debt, there is something you can do to reduce your interest rates and fees and perhaps even have fees that were already
out there. They know your mailbox is jammed with offers, and quite frankly, they do not want to lose a valuable, profit-generating customer like you to another company. It’s cheaper for card issuers to cut you a break than lose your business and have to find a new customer.
There are several requests you should
Michelle writes: “My husband recently charged to a card, and we went over the limit. I called Capital One, and they waived the $39 fee because we have never had an over-limit fee, and our payments are always on time.”
Judy responded: “I called Capital One, with whom I have had a credit card for 10 years. I’ve paid an annual fee every year. I spoke with customer service and politely asked if the $95 annual fee could be waived. She passed me to an account specialist, and based on the longevity and ‘impeccable’ status of my account, he offered me a one-time fee waiver and said they would send me a letter confirming this in writing. I’m thrilled! That five-minute call put $95 back into my wallet.”
Are you ready to exercise your savvy customer muscles? Well then, let the haggling begin!
Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
A Couple’s Guide to Common Money Myths
BY MARY HUNT
The wedding was beautiful and fulfilled your fondest dreams. But it’s over, and now it’s time to settle in and enjoy your new life together. Lucky for you, I’m here to warn you about some common money myths that newlyweds have been known to bring with them into their marriages.
MYTH: DOUBLE THE INCOME, HALF THE EXPENSES
This is what I call newlywed fuzzy math: Merging your lives and incomes into one household is the equivalent of getting a raise. Don’t believe that, not for a second.
Counter: Start out living on only one income, and save the rest. This will require going against everything the culture insists you deserve, but it will allow you to move seamlessly into parenthood. When that day comes, you’ll have an impressive savings account and options. And a gallery of envious friends.
MYTH: THERE’S STUFF WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT No, there isn’t. But it will be easy to convince yourselves that you absolutely must have matching furniture, new cars, and all kinds of gadgets and services to
make your lives easier and keep up with your friends.
Counter: Make a pact that you will never go into debt for “stuff.” Period.
MYTH: IF WE QUALIFY, WE CAN AFFORD IT
Whether it’s a new credit card or a new nothing-down, interest-only mortgage for a house that, in your hearts, you know you cannot afford, never allow your ability to qualify to be the determining factor. Getting in over your heads in a house or credit card debt is the recipe for a marital disaster.
Counter: Never think of a credit card company, real estate agent or mortgage broker as a financial adviser. They are salespeople looking to close deals. Get advice from a wise person who will not benefit financially from the decision you make.
MYTH: WE HAVE PLENTY OF TIME
It does seem as though you have a lifetime ahead. And that you don’t really need to save money now, while things are tight. But that’s a myth.
The truth is you cannot afford to go one more day without a savings commitment for many reasons. You will want to retire. You do not want to feel forced into debt
when something unexpected happens. You do not want to get used to spending all that you have. You want to create a sense of security and peace in your marriage.
Counter: See 10% of your net income as a mandatory financial obligation, just like your rent or mortgage payment. Pay it to yourselves, without fail, starting now
MYTH: SOME MONEY ISSUES ARE BEST KEPT PRIVATE
Whether it’s student debt or a secret credit card account, keeping money secrets from your beloved is not good for your marriage. You might be able to pull off financial infidelity for a while, but eventually, it will come back to bite you.
Counter: Start out with a commitment to full disclosure and total honesty. That will build something into your marriage that money cannot buy: trust.
MYTH: EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE AS SOON AS WE MAKE MORE MONEY
It does make sense that if you are struggling now, you won’t once you get a big raise or finish school or get your grandmother’s inheritance or win the lottery. The truth is that more money will never be enough until you learn how to manage the money you already have.
Counter: Make the necessary adjustments now to live beneath your means. That will ensure that when more money comes into your lives, you’ll know exactly how to take care of it.
MYTH: IT’S TOO LATE
No matter how long you’ve been married or how difficult your situation may appear, it’s not too late. It will take longer and be more challenging, but you can turn your situation around. Two people committed to reaching a single goal create a powerful force.
Counter: Decide right now that you are going to do whatever it takes to debt-proof your marriage!
Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
Week of May 18-24, 2025
Regular readers of my column certainly know how to use the Big Dipper to find the North Star (aka Polaris). Some folks believe Polaris is important because it’s the brightest star in the heavens, and they are disappointed when they see it. It’s faint. Really faint.
If you listed the brightest stars in the sky, you’d discover that Polaris isn’t even in the top 10. It’s not in the top 20, the top 30 or the top 40. No, Polaris is the 49th brightest star in the night sky, and that means you’ll never find it when viewing from under the lights of a city.
So if it’s not the brightest star we see at night, why, then, is it so important? That’s because it happens to lie directly over the north pole of the Earth, and when you face it -- no matter which season or time of night -- you’re facing true north.
Over the centuries, writers and philosophers have recognized Polaris as a sign of constancy. Navigators have used it to safely guide their ships. Cultures throughout Asia long considered its prominent position as the pinnacle of the cosmic “Mountain of the World” or “Axis of the Universe.” In traditional Indian astronomy, its Sanskrit name is “dhruva tara,” which literally means “fixed star.”
So is there something magical about
STARGAZERS
Our Changing North Star
this star that aligns it almost perfectly with due north? Not at all; it’s simply a cosmic coincidence. As permanent a feature as Polaris might seem to us, it has not always occupied the role of our North Star. This is because our Earth doesn’t spin perfectly but rather wobbles a bit as we travel along our cosmic journey.
We can easily see this “precession” effect with a spinning top. As the top rotates on its axis, it eventually slows down and begins to wobble. The axis about which the top spins no longer points in a single direction but instead traces a much larger circle.
Our Earth behaves much the same, and over time, its rotational axis traces a giant circle among the stars. Rarely does anyone other than astronomers ever think about precession since a full cycle takes 25,800 years to complete.
For most of modern history, the northern pole of our Earth’s axis has pointed roughly toward Polaris. But this wasn’t always the case. Back when the ancient Egyptians were constructing the pyramids 50 centuries ago, they saw a different North Star. At that time, the star Thuban in the constellation of Draco, the dragon, appeared quite close to this “north celestial pole” and served this important function.
If you’re patient (and have really good longevity genes), you’ll see the pole star change gradually. Over the next few millennia, the sky will precess
and Polaris will vacate this important position as other, fainter stars take over its role. In another 55 centuries, the star Alderamin in Cepheus, the king, will occupy that prominent position. And by 14,000 A.D. the bright star Vega will lie closest to the north celestial pole.
But fear not; Polaris will return to its starring role as our North Star. We’ll just have to wait 25,800 years!
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.
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LOST IN SUBURBIA
Today’s Special Is Influenza
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
Although some people are uncomfortable going out to a restaurant by themselves, I am perfectly fine with dining alone. Honestly, with the level of pandemonium we used to have in our house, I was always happy to have a quiet meal by myself every once in a while. I don’t ask myself to get up and get some more water, I don’t typically spill food across the table on myself, and I don’t tell myself revolting stories while I eat.
But one day while I was out to lunch, I noticed a woman and a child of about 6 or 7 eating at the table next to me. He was being a little rambunctious and she smiled apologetically.
“No school today?” I asked her warmly.
“Oh, he’s home sick,” she responded.
As she started to say something else, the little boy let out an earth-shattering, apocalyptic sneeze that rained across the table.
He turned in my direction and broke into an explosive cough. I reflexively covered my food with my hands and gave her a horrified look.
“He had a cold but he’s getting it over it,” she assured me. I thought that if this was him getting better, I couldn’t imagine how bad he must have been when he was really sick. I was thinking that a call to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wouldn’t be overreaching.
I wondered if she really thought he was, in fact, “getting over it,” or if she was just tired of being stuck home with Typhoid Jack and was desperate to get out among the non-drippy. I thought about the time another mom had sent
her sneezing, wheezing daughter over to my house for a playdate, insisting the girl just had allergies. I insisted back that one doesn’t typically get a fever of 102 F when one has allergies.
As Jack continued to violently hack and sneeze through the meal, I inched my chair farther and farther back until I was almost sitting in the lap of the customer at the table behind me.
Unfortunately, I was completely out of surgical masks or I would have immediately strapped one on before heading to the nearest NASA decontamination chamber to be biochemically disinfected.
While she busied herself trying to keep up with lava flow of mucus coming from the nose of her offspring, I looked at the mom in disbelief. Call me crazy, but I think if your kid is too sick to go to school, you probably shouldn’t be dragging him around in public either, unless
it’s to take him to the TB clinic.
All around me I noticed other customers noticing Typhoid Jack coughing up a lung. Soon all the tables had somehow mysteriously moved to the back of the restaurant.
Rather than go sit in the kitchen, I decided that I’d had enough of my scarlet fever salad with a side of streptococcus, and I motioned to my server to bring me a check.
“No dessert today?” he asked, showing me the menu.
I looked at the selections. “Do you have any penicillin?”
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
Due to the Earth’s axial precession, Vega will replace Polaris as Earth’s North Star by 14,000 A.D.
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Tenured teachers, board members celebrated at BOE meeting
recipients Kelly Carey, Emily Meslin and Kerry Michel
with members of the Board of Education, Principal John DeKams and Director of Special Education Sharon Meyer at the meeting on May 8.
Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District honored staff and members of the Board of Education for their achievements during the meeting on May 8.
Floral Park-Bellerose School’s Ronald McDonald Club opened the meeting and presented on their club activities. The club supports the Ronald McDonald House, an organization that provides care and support for families with children who are receiving treatment in hospitals. The students shared how they raise money and awareness through a variety of events, such as fundraisers, raffles and food drives. The Ronald McDonald Club students in attendance were Ryan Lynch, Harper Micyk and Scottie Weickert.
Following the students’ presentation, Interim Superintendent of Schools Lisa Ruiz began the recognitions of tenure recipients. The district’s evaluation system is a rigorous process and requires non-tenured teachers to be observed by the administrative team multiple times over a three-to-four-year period, depending on the probationary term. Staff are evaluated by many criteria, such as professionalism, commitment, relationship building, worth ethic and manner.
“We’re proud of you and grateful that you have been chosen to work in our school district. I wish you a long and successful career ahead,” Mrs. Ruiz said.
Floral Park-Bellerose School
Principal John DeKams then introduced tenure candidates kindergarten teacher Kelly Carey and fifth grade teacher Emily Meslin, recognizing them for their efforts and sharing kind remarks from their colleagues. District Director of Special Education Sharon Meyer introduced tenure candidate Kerry Michel, a school psychologist at Floral Park-Bellerose School, also shar-
Board trustee Michele Vincent and board trustee Laura Trentacoste received NYSSBA awards at the meeting on May 8.
ing words of praise from colleagues. All three candidates were approved for tenure by the board of education.
The commendations concluded with Board President Jaclyn O’Donohue recognizing members of the board for receiving awards from the New York State School Boards Association. Board trustee Michele Vincent received a Board Achievement Award and board trustee Laura Trentacoste received a Board Lifetime Achievement Award. Board members can achieve levels of recognition through NYSSBA by participating in webinars, conferences and microlearning courses.
“These awards exemplify the time and dedication the board members put in to continue learning and reaching goals for our district and our students,” Mrs. O’Donohue stated.
Tenure
are pictured
Floral Park-Bellerose School members of the Ronald McDonald Club are pictured with Interim Superintendent Lisa Ruiz and members of the board of education at the meeting on May 8.
Photos courtesy of the Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District
Outdoor animal feeding law approved despite concerns
From page 6
Mayor Fitzgerald asked Trustee Jennifer Stewart to read some of the comments the Board received about the proposed local law. After she shared those statements from residents, Deputy Mayor Dr. Lynn Pombonyo thanked everyone “who contributed either formally or informally to the development of the local law that deals with the feeding of animals outside.”
“Procedures for that came from many sources and many examples that
had gone on, and best practices – so thanks to everyone who took part in the local law’s development,” she noted After public comments concluded, the Board held a roll-call vote and unanimously adopted Local Law No. 2 of 2025.
In an earlier interview, Deputy Mayor Pombonyo had explained the village’s reasoning:
“Many of us in Floral Park are concerned about animal welfare, and want to be of help. However, when it comes to feeding animals outdoors, a number of
unanticipated problems can ensue. Animals should not be fed outdoors unless they are watched to ensure they remain safe from other larger animals who may be dangerously competing for the same food. Leftover food and the containers should be discarded in plastic bags and closed receptacles immediately after feeding…..”
“Proper animal care and property maintenance will ensure that unwanted insects, rodents and wild animals aren’t attracted to open containers of food that remain outdoors and become the food
for the unwanted insects, rodents and wild animals. Feeding and caring for outdoor animals may be the ultimate act of kindness but, if the food is not handled and disposed of properly, it may become the ultimate act of irresponsibility leading to serious health and property maintenance issues and Village of Floral Park violations. All are thanked for caring for our outdoor animal friends, obeying the law, and showing respect for these animals and as well as the surrounding properties,” Dr. Pombonyo said.
'Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed' opens at LI Children's Museum
Raptor-ous applause all around for the latest interactive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) exhibit at Long Island Children’s Museum (LICM). The Museum is predicting visitors will have a roar-some time this summer as they step back in time to explore Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed. The exhibit, sponsored by Bank of America, will be in residence at LICM from May 17 to August 31, 2025.
Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed provides an in-depth look at the giant prehistoric creatures that once roamed the Earth. Often, with dinosaur exhibits, the crucial background information is overshadowed by the sheer majesty of these massive animals. Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed ensures that education and excitement are always at the center of the visitor experience, while dispelling common misconceptions and engaging young and old visitors alike with handson interactive exhibits. Guests get up close views of life-size skulls, arms, feet and everything in between.
Visitors can view and touch six full dinosaur skeletal molds including a Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus Rex and Velociraptor. There are additional molds of skulls, arms, legs, eggs, footprints and even a 6-foot-1-inch Apatosaurus femur. Visitors will be able to work through a timeline matching game and enjoy a dig box where they can use paleontology tools to unearth dinosaur bones.
“Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity as they see and touch these prehistoric giants,” explained LICM President Erika Floreska. “The exhibit, coupled with the Museum’s public programming and exhibit enhancements, brings the excitement of paleontology to life.” Floreska notes that the Museum has the perfect partner in Bank of America to create an exciting summer for visitors. “LICM and Bank of America are excited to give young explorers the opportunity to dig deeper into the science, history and fun surrounding dinosaurs; making learning an exciting, hands-on experience for every child!"
For more than a decade, Bank of America has collaborated with the Museum to bring educational opportunities to Long Islanders and serve local communities. In 2024, Bank of America named the Museum one of its Long Island Neighborhood Builders, awarding the Museum $200,000 in flexible funding and providing leadership training. This grant, awarded over two years, is helping the Museum strengthen local communities by expanding access to programming connecting children and families to important services. Through the bank’s Museums on Us program, the Museum also offers free admission to Bank of America cardholders during the first full weekend of each month.
“The Long Island Children’s Museum’s innovative programs, educational resources, engaging exhibits and dedication to the community has been the foundation of our partnership for more than a decade,” said Marc Perez, president, Bank of America Long Island. “We look forward to bringing the magic and natural wonder of Dinosaurs: Fossils
Exposed to the Island this spring and summer.”
The Museum is adding several hands-on activities to the exhibit to enhance visitor engagement, including the opportunity to build their own dinosaurs using foam bones and put on costumes and grab tools to pose for pictures with a mascot character or in a scenic photo op landscape.
The exhibit features four immersive areas, tailored to specific types of play, including physical, social, inquisitive and creative. These areas include:
Dig Like a Paleontologist
• Use real paleontologist tools to uncover dinosaur bones at our dig site. Learn how fossils are discovered and what they tell us about the past!
Meet the Dinosaurs
• Get up close to full-size replicas of dinosaurs, from the powerful Triceratops to the speedy Velociraptor. Discover fun facts about their habits and habitats!
Examine Real Fossils
• Look at preserved dinosaur bones,
footprints, and fossilized eggs. Learn how these fossils help scientists understand how dinosaurs lived.
Dino Dimensions
• Compare your height to the impressive 6’ 1” femur bone of an Apatosaurus (Brontosaurus). Discover what it was like to be one of the largest land animals!
To complement the exhibit, LICM will offer a variety of public programs during its run, including:
STEM Explorers: Totally T-riffic Dinos (Saturday, May 17 from Noon to 2 p.m.) - Come join the Green Teens in celebrating the opening of our new exhibit, Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed, and learn about the amazing creatures that once roamed our planet. This program is made possible with the support of National Grid.
Pterodactyl Flyers (May 18, June 28, July 26 and August 3) - Did you know that Pterodactyls are not classified as dinosaurs? They are Pterosaurs, which are flying reptiles. Come make your own flying creature and watch it soar in our wind tube.
Fascinating Fossils (May 18, June 8, July 13 and August 2) - Fossils are one of the main ways we gather information about dinosaurs. Come make your very own clay fossil impression to take home. Ask a Paleontologist (July 10) - This special program with real-life paleontologist, Michael D. D'Emic, PhD, and his graduate students allows visitors to ask all their dino questions and get hands-on with real world tools and artifacts.
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Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed exhibit roars into LICM on May 17th.
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