Plainview resident Mimi Cooper celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday, Jan. 2. Above, Nassau County Legislator Arnold Drucker presents her with a proclamation. See page 27.
Chamber womens' group to hear speaker
BY RIKKI N. MASSAND
The Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce’s new Women in Business networking group will welcome a guest speaker, nutritionist Tami Racaniello at its next virtual meeting, on Tuesday, January 12th at 5:30 p.m.
Racaniello is an experienced nutritionist and Long Island Food Council member.
Since the mid-2000s she has grown her nutritional consulting company, It’s Time to Get Fit!, which is based in Huntington. The January 12 event will be held via Zoom. Meeting info and further details are available at the Chamber’s website, SyossetChamber.com
Racaniello will discuss “Setting a Healthy Mindset for the New Year.” Her pre-
sentation will accompany a networking and open discussion portion of the Women in Business meeting “Let’s Talk About Your Business In 2021.”
At the dawn of every new year personal health and new commitments to it are prioritized by many, but it’s an especially timely topic as the pandemic surges.
See page 14
Syosset school district to review Amazon warehouse plans
BY RIKKI N. MASSAND
At a special meeting held during the holiday break, the Syosset Central School District’s Board of Education unanimously voted to hire a traffic engineering consultant to review potential traffic patterns at a proposed site of a new Amazon warehouse.
The Board hired Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. (GPI) to review the Syosset Park/ 150 Miller Place site, which is located next to the Long Island Expressway and close to Robbins Lane Elementary School. An application for an Amazon warehouse was set to be heard by the Town of Oyster Bay Planning Advisory Board at its meeting this week
The Syosset Board of Education convened online on Tuesday night, December 29, with a live stream available for public participation. School Board President Tracy Frankel stated at the beginning of the meeting that the special session was specifically to vote on the hiring of the consulting firm, “to review submissions in connection with the Amazon warehouse (proposed) project.”
Syosset’s Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Rogers gave a briefing on the timeline, as the district was forced to “move more quickly than anticipated” due to details of the Amazon application to the Town being made in the second half of December.
“Last week (Christmas week) we received the expanded Environmental Assessment and the final Traffic Study for the Amazon warehouse proposal. As we discussed at the December 14, 2020 Board of Education meeting, traffic in Syosset will certainly be a large aspect of this project if it is to be approved going forward, due to the number of Amazon vans, heavy trucks and then the employees’ cars using the site. That may have some implications for our school district operations. If at the site, developers move forward with the remedial action work plan the board of education has discussed (December 14) the acts of performing any remediations to occur will also have traffic impacts on the surrounding areas, therefore it too potentially has a traffic impact on the district,” Dr. Rogers said.
The Traffic Study accompanying the Amazon application to the Town is over 700 pages in length, and Dr. Rogers said examining it thoroughly required “technical and engineering expertise that does not exist among our school district’s staff.” The consulting firm will evaluate it in the
See page 14
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Budget committee members wanted
To the Editor:
The Bethpage Board of Education would like to provide an opportunity for interested community residents to participate in the development of the 2021-2022 school budget. The Board this year is again forming a Budget Advisory Committee. The ideal committee will be made up of various constituencies of our community. The Budget Advisory Committee will meet at 7:30 pm in the Administration Building District Conference Room on:
Thursday, March 4
Thursday, March 18
This committee will be moderated by a Board member and the Administration will be in attendance to review and facilitate a discussion of the proposed budget. Ultimately,
the task of this committee is to provide a detailed level of input in shaping our programs. It is possible that additional dates might be needed depending on the calendar of the State Legislature which decides how much state aid the school district will receive.
If you are interested in participating as a member of the Budget Advisory Committee, please call Elena Becker in the Superintendent’s Office at 644-4001, or Christine Baebler in the Assistant Superintendent for Business’ Office at 644-4030, no later than Friday, February 12, 2021.
We look forward to a productive and inclusive budget process. Thank you.
Michael J. Kelly Board President, Bethpage Board of Education
Let your voice be heard!
Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss? Want to respond to something you saw in our paper? Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!
HMS students named LI Young Scholars of Mathematics
Congratulations to Hicksville Middle School students Sruthi Nanugonfda and Naresh Sivaskaran on being named Long Island Young Scholars of Mathematics by the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students at SUNY Old Westbury. Nanugonfda and Sivaskaran are two of 82 students from Nassau and Suffolk counties who were accepted into the program.
The program focuses on enhancing
the problem-solving skills of select students in grades 5 through 10 by inviting them to participate in training sessions on 20 Saturdays throughout the year. This year, due to the pandemic, the program is being held via Zoom. Acceptance into the program is based on an entrance exam score and a student’s report card. The Institute is tuition free, providing equal access to all qualified students.
Photos courtesy of the Hicksville School District
Bethpage School Board meetings
The Bethpage Board of Education will meet on Tuesday, January 19 and Tuesday, January 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Both meetings will be live streamed from the district’s website, www.bethpagecommunity.com
Do you have a service to advertise?
Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.
Naresh Sivaskaran
Sruthi Nanugonfda
Two charged in New Year’s brawl
Nassau County Police arrested two men after an altercation in the early hours of New Year’s Day in Levittown.
According to detectives, Eighth precinct Officers responded to a Mill Lane residence at 1:05 a.m. for a domestic incident.
Police say that Anthony Diomede, 31, had gone to his ex-girlfriend’s residence where he was involved in an altercation with Joseph Arena, 32. According to police, Diomede pulled out a knife which Arena was able to take from him and used it to stab Diomede multiple
times in the arm and head. Meanwhile, Diomede kicked and punched Arena in the head.
Both men were placed arrested without incident. Anthony Diomede was transported by a Nassau County Police Ambulance to a local hospital for treatment of non life-threatening injuries.
Arena was charged with assault, criminal possession of a weapon and possession of a controlled substance. Diomede was charged with assault and two counts of criminal contempt.
Christmas Tree collection
Town of Oyster Bay residents who regularly receive recycling/yard waste collection in the Town of Oyster Bay may dispose of their Christmas tree on regular recycling/yard waste days ending Friday, January 15.
“We all love the beauty of Christmas lights and trees during the holiday season. After the celebrations are over, it is important to discard the tree in a timely
manner as Christmas trees can pose as a fire hazard, especially after drying out,” said Councilman Imbroto. “Proper and prompt disposal of a dried out tree is very important, and you can dispose of your tree at the next scheduled yard waste collection day.”
For additional questions, residents can contact the Town’s Sanitation Division at (516) 677-5848.
Blood drive at Woodbury Jewish Center
Roll up your sleeves during National Blood Donor Month and help save lives on Tuesday, Jan. 12, with Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan (Woodbury) the Woodbury Jewish Center and the Affinity Health Plan by donating blood from 3–9 p.m. at the Woodbury Jewish Center, located at 200 South Woods Road, Woodbury.
“During National Blood Donor Month, we recognize the contributions of so many people that do their part to ensure Nassau County’s blood reserves are safe, secure and plentiful,” Legislator Lafazan said. “There’s no better way to fulfill your New Year’s resolution to give back to the community by visiting the Woodbury Jewish Center and rolling up your sleeve to give the gift of life.”
Eligible donors must have an ID with a signature or a photo, weigh at least 110 pounds, have had no tattoos in the last 12 months and be ages 16–75 years of age
Advertise in our papers!
(16-year-old donors must have parental consent. Donors over age 76 must bring a doctor’s note.) O-negative and B-negative donors are especially needed in addition to all other blood types.
In compliance with COVID-19 prevention protocols, donors must wear a face mask or covering; have their temperature taken before donating; and must be 14 days symptom-free if they have recovered from COVID-19. Individuals that are currently observing self-quarantine restrictions or that have tested positive for COVID-19 or experienced symptoms in the last 14 days are not eligible to donate at this time.
Visit https://donate.nybc.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/285838 to schedule a time to donate. Appointments are recommended, and walk-ins will be taken if the drive capacity permits.
For additional information, contact the New York Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566 or visit www.nybc.org/coronavirus.
If you own a business or have a service to provide, we’ll create professional advertisements to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!
o
with Nationwide and the personal service and guidance you’ve come to trust haven’t changed. a nd most importantly, we have more ways than ever to customize insurance protection that’s just right for you and your family.
School community lights up the night for children in need
Members of the Abbey Lane Elementary School Student Council in the Levittown Public Schools celebrated the season of giving by recently hosting their first “Night of Lights” event where they collected more than 150 toys for the John Theissen Children’s Foundation. Due to the pandemic, the event required all attendees to stay in their vehicles as they enjoyed the drivethrough spectacular.
Under the leadership of student council advisers Lisa Wenz and Denice Norman, members of the Abbey Lane faculty, staff and PTA decorated the school’s back parking lot area with lights, inflatable decorations and more. Abbey Lane art teacher Tiffany Sorice also worked with students on painting character cutouts that she created for the spectacle.
Students and their families were encour-
aged to drop off a new toy donation at the start of the event and drive through the back parking lot of the school to enjoy the lights and participate in a QR code scavenger hunt. Holiday music was provided for the event by the Abbey Lane orchestra and other songs of the season were broadcasted live on the radio.
The Levittown Fire Department made a special appearance at the event with its decorated truck and Santa also stopped by. The “Night of Lights” event was a great way to kick off the holiday season and to collect toys for children in need.
“We appreciate the support from the entire Abbey Lane community for taking part in our event,” said Principal Dr. George Maurer.
Abbey Lane art teacher Tiffany Sorice and students created character cutouts for the school’s “Night of Lights” event.
Santa made a guest appearance at Abbey Lane Elementary School’s “Night of Lights” event.
The Abbey Lane Elementary School back parking lot was decorated with lights and inflatable decorations for students and their families to drive by and enjoy.
Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools
DISCOVER THE FINEST IN SENIOR LIVING
The Bristal Assisted Living has been serving seniors and their families in the tri-state area since 2000, offering independent and assisted living, as well as state-of-the-art memory care programs. We are committed to helping residents remain independent, while providing peace of mind that expert care is available, if needed. Designed with seniors in mind, each of our communities feature exquisitely appointed apartments and beautiful common areas that are perfect for entertaining. On-site services and amenities include daily housekeeping, gourmet meals, a cinema, salon, plus so much more. Discover a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and a luxurious lifestyle that you will only find at The Bristal.
Upcoming Virtual Events at the Jericho Public Library
Monday, January 11
2:00 p.m.: Profiles in Courage: Ruth Bader Ginsburg with Dr. William Thierfelder - Ginsburg was a brilliant jurist who spent much of her career as an advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. Dubbed “The Notorious R.B.G.”, she embraced the moniker and became a household name. This program reflects on her life and is meant to be an homage to one of the great judges of the past century.
4:00 p.m.: Flex & Tone with Mindy Vasta - Put on some comfortable clothing and join Mindy for this exercise class while in the comfort and safety of your home.
7:00 p.m.: Fit & Fabulous with Linda Ray - Join Linda for this evening exercise class designed to get you Fit & look Fabulous!
Tuesday, January 12
10:30 a.m.: Storytime with Ms. Liz(Ages 2-5 Years)
11:00 a.m.: Guided Meditation for Self Healing with Patricia AndersonJoin Pat for one or all of the meditation
sessions to bring harmony and balance into your life.
7:00 p.m.: Let’s Explore the Children’s Museum at Saratoga: Magic v. Science (Ages 4 Years and Up) - Learn how to concoct the brew which uses household kitchen ingredients. Is it the magic wand or science that explains the bubbling chemical reaction of the experiment?
Wednesday, January 13
10:30 a.m.: 1,2,3, Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead (Ages 2–5 Years) - The goal of this program is to provide a structured experience that enhances S. T. E. A. M. learning. Emphasis is given to activities that encourage early reading, math, and school readiness.
1:00 p.m.: Watercolor Demonstration with Chuck Van Horn - Learn watercolor techniques, tips and tricks. There will be time for questions and critiques.
7:00 p.m.: Winter Wonderland Pop Up Card Workshop (Grades 4-6)
Artist Chris Vivas will teach the
techniques to construct a pop-up card which you will embellish and decorate to spread joy to the person that you give it to.
Thursday, January 14
10:00 a.m. Chair Yoga with Jolie Bosnjak - This practice is for all levels including those nursing an injury or coping with a chronic problem. The results will surprise you!
5:30 p.m.: Yoga with Joe - This yoga class is geared for all levels to reduce the stress in your life while keeping fit!
7:00 p.m.: Story & Crafts with Ms. Kim (Ages 3–Kindergarten)
Friday, January 15
2:00 p.m.: Great Performers: Carol Channing, Larger Than Life with Marc Courtade - Carol Channing was one of the most recognizable presences in the theater world. Her performances in “Gentleman Prefer Blondes” and “Hello, Dolly!” made her a Broadway star.
4:00 p.m.: STEAM Class with the National Baseball Hall of Fame:
See what's happening at your library!
Batter Up (Grades 3–6) - See how everyday math applies to baseball and the real world. Analyze baseball statistics and how they are calculated.
Saturday, January 16
11:00 a.m.: Table Top Adventures: Back to the Spa: Tasty and Low Calorie with Lucy Van Horn The holidays are over and the scale has overindulged with every bite. Join Lucy for some delicious things to make with lower calories.
Sunday, January 17
2:00 p.m.: An Eclectic Music Mix with Stuart Waters, Michelle Fabre, and Phil Terry - Mark your calendar for an afternoon of music performed by three musicians whose distinctive voices blend beautifully regardless of which genre they deliver. A mix of music you know and love as well as some you may not have heard.
For all events, go to www.jerichopubliclibrary.org /events/month to register
From classes to lectures and concerts to movie screenings, there's never a dull day at your local library! Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, all for free or cheap!
Afternoons with the Authors
Virtual Author Visit With: Alka Joshi
Tuesday, January 12 at 3 p.m.
Debut novelist Alka Joshi joins us to discuss the writing of her 2020 bestselling novel and Reese Witherspoon book club pick “The Henna Artist,” following the journey of 17-year-old Lakshmi as she seeks to find independence in 1950’s Jaipur.
Free. No registration required.
Join via Zoom from the link on the Live Streaming Events Calendar - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming
Virtual Author Visit With:
Emily Henry
Tuesday, January 26 at 3 p.m.
Emily Henry joins us to discuss the writing of her instant New York Times bestselling novel “Beach Read” (2020) and give us a sneak peek at her forthcoming release “People We Meet on Vacation” (2021).
Free. No registration required.
Join via Zoom from the link on the Live Streaming Events Calendar - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming
About to hit a milestone?
Share your life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper, (and it's
Email editor@gcnews.com
Alka Joshi
Photo by Garry Bailey
Emily Henry Photo by Devyn Glista St. Blanc Studios
This Week at the Syosset Library
Thursday, January 7 at 2:00 p.m.
The National Government v. the States: Who Wins?
Presenter: James Coll, adjunct professor of American and Constitutional history at Nassau Community College and Hofstra University, retired NYPD detective
Few debates have been as lasting as the struggle to define the relationship between the states and the national government. Professor Coll will analyze the concept of federalism--the balance of power between these two structures. No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming.
Thursday, January 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Virtual Author Visits:
Natalie Zina Walschots
Bring your own beverage and zoom in to meet with the author of “Hench.” No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming.
Friday, January 8 at 12:00 p.m.
Virtual Author Visit: Beth Harbison
Grab lunch and zoom in to meet with the author of “ The Cookbook Club and other favorites. No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.
Friday, January 8 at 2:00 p.m.
The Law in Films
Presenter, Greg Blank, filmmaker & video journalist.
Some of the greatest movies ever made were about lawyers, the law and the courtroom setting. Films discussed will include “ To Kill a Mockingbird, ” “ Inherit the Wind, ” “ 12 Angry Men, ” “ A Few Good Men, ” “ My Cousin Vinny, ” “ The Verdict, ” “ Philadelphia, ” and “ Judgement at Nuremberg. ” No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www. syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.
Monday, January 11 at 9:15 a.m.
Dancersize with Carol Rodriguez
This fitness class combines aerobic exercise with dance moves. Do it from the comfort of your own home. Register at www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming
Monday, January 11 at 12:00 p.m.
Beef & Butternut Squash Soup
Cooking Class
Presenter: Chef Rob Scott
Make a warm, yummy stew, and learn some interesting cooking tips along the way. You can also get creative and swap out some of the ingredients for other vegetables. Register at www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming. Once you register you will be sent a Zoom link, ingredient list and recipe.
Tuesday, January 12 at 3:00 p.m.
Afternoons with the Author:
Virtual Author Visit with Alka Joshi
Debut novelist Alka Joshi joins us to discuss the writing of her 2020 bestselling novel and Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick “The Henna Artist,” following the journey of 17-year-old Lakshmi as she seeks to find independence in 1950s Jaipur. No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar – www.syossetlibrary. org/live-streaming.
Wednesday, January 13 at 1:00 p.m.
Virtual Simply Fit with Marilyn Bunger
This class is suited for the older adult. It combines basics of strength training and stretching. Register at: www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming
Thursday, January 14 at 2:00 p.m.
Best of the
Great American Songbook – Part 7
Presenter: Richard Knox
Continuation of a 10-part series about the most enduring American songs of the early to mid-20th century. Attend as many sessions as you wish. No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www. syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming
Friday, January15 at 12:00 p.m.
The Life of Betty White
Presenter, Sal St. George, playwright and film historian
Betty has the longest television career in history, spanning from 1949 until today. In 2011, Betty was voted the most trusted celebrity in America. Betty has starred in two classic sitcoms (“The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Golden Girls”). Join us as we learn the fascinating and inspiring story of the beloved author, humanitarian, and actress. No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www.syossetlibrary. org/live-streaming
Hicksville resident honored by Town for services
BY GARY SIMEONE
A Hicksville resident, Mahesh Khadka, received an official proclamation from the Town of Oyster Bay last week for his exemplary service in the community. He has been an active volunteer on behalf of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), contributing goods and services to help people through the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
During the course of the pandemic, Khadka has organized a blood drive to help those who have been impacted. He also has collected and donated masks gowns hand sanitizer and has helped deliver groceries to families in both Nassau and Suffolk counties.
“As part of my position in the NRNA, I helped to distribute personal protective equipment to over 550 families throughout Long Island,” said Khadka. “I also helped people who had been diagnosed with COVID19 to come into contact with medical professionals through tele-consultation.”
One of his more noteworthy contributions was galvanizing members of his organization to help raise funds for families that had lost loved ones due to the disease.
Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joe Saladino presented Khadka with the official proclamation at a recent Town Hall meeting.
“Mahesh is an individual who exhibits true dedication and leadership when it comes to making the world a better place,” said Saladino. “He volunteers a significant amount of time in social causes and is actively involved in promoting the importance of volunteer services. Put simply, Mahesh is a person who works to make his community a better place and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to recognize his achievements.”
One of the main goals of the NRNA is to promote Nepali culture among people of Nepali origin living in the United States and throughout cross-culture communities.
As the general secretary of the organization’s New York chapter, Mahesh has helped to educate people about the importance of the 2020 census.
He has also been outspoken about violence against women, and has helped to create awareness about women’s empowerment within the Nepalese community.
“One of my duties and something I’m very passionate about is helping people with immigration issues,” said Khadka. “I started on my path of social services when I was living in Nepal as a teenage boy. I served on local boards helping others who were seeking a better life.”
To find out more about the NonResident Nepali Association, you can visit their website, nrnusa.org.
Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino with honoree Mahesh Khadka.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING BETHPAGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, IN THE COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK (February 9, 2021)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an Informational Meeting of the Bethpage Union Free School District, Nassau County, Bethpage, New York, will be held virtually via YouTube Live on January 28, 2021 at 7:00PM, prevailing time, for the purpose of discussing the Bond Proposition which shall be voted on at the Special District meeting to be held on February 9, 2021, as more fully described herein.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Education of the Bethpage Union Free School District (the “District”), in the County of Nassau, New York, adopted on December 15, 2020, a Special District Meeting of the qualified voters of said School District will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 from 12:00 o’clock P.M. to 8:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) in the Auxiliary Gymnasium of the Bethpage Senior High School, Cherry Avenue and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage, New York, in said District, for the purpose of voting upon the following Bond Proposition: BOND PROPOSITION YES NO
RESOLVED:
(a) That the Board of Education of the Bethpage Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the “District”), is hereby authorized to construct alterations and improvements to all District buildings and the sites thereof (the “Project”), substantially as described in the “Bond Planning Study” (the “Plan”) prepared for the District by BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, P.C., on file and available for public inspection at the office of the District Clerk; such Project to include interior reconstruction and space reconfiguration; electrical, lighting and information technology system upgrades; floor and ceiling replacements; building envelope improvements; ADA compliance; athletic and recreation improvements, including installation
of a new track, synthetic turf fields, scoreboards, new athletic barn, storage units and concession building and field, basketball court and irrigation upgrades; and parking, driveway; asphalt and pavement improvements; the foregoing to include the original furnishings, equipment, machinery, apparatus and ancillary or related site, demolition and other work required in connection therewith; and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated total cost of $16,250,000; provided that the costs of the components of the Project as set forth in detail in detail in the Plan may be reallocated among such components if the Board of Education shall determine that such reallocation is in the best interest of the District;
(b) that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $16,250,000 to pay the cost of the Project, said tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and
(c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of not to exceed $16,250,000, and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable.
Such Bond Proposition shall appear on the ballots used for voting at said Special District Meeting in substantially the following condensed form:
BOND PROPOSITION YES NO
RESOLVED:
(a) That the Board of Education of the Bethpage Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the “District”), is hereby authorized to construct alterations and improvements to all District buildings and the sites thereof substantially as described in the “Bond Planning Study” prepared for the District by BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, P.C., and to expend therefor an amount not to exceed $16,250,000;
(b) that a tax is hereby
LEGAL NOTICES
voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $16,250,000 to pay the cost thereof, said tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and
(c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of not to exceed $16,250,000, and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable.
The voting will be conducted by ballot on voting machines or paper ballot as provided in the Education Law and the polls will remain open from 12:00 o’clock P.M. to 8:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) and as much longer as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballots.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER
NOTICE that each person entitled to vote must register. Registration dates, hours, and locations are as follows:
WEEKDAYS, until February 4, 2021, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Prevailing Time) when school is in session in the Office of the District Clerk, located in the Administration Building, Cherry and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage, New York.
SATURDAY, January 30, 2021, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. (Prevailing Time), in the Boardroom at the Administration Building, Cherry and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage, New York.
The following persons shall be eligible to vote: All persons who shall have presented themselves personally for registration in accordance with section two thousand fourteen of the Education Law and all persons who shall have been previously duly registered for any annual or special meeting or election, who are qualified to vote and who shall have voted at any annual or special meeting or election held or conducted during the four (4) calendar years prior to 2021 (i.e., 20172020) and who are not disqualified from voting for any reason set forth in New York State Election Law Section 5-106. In addition, all persons who are registered to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law of
the State of New York shall be eligible to vote.
All persons who registered at the Annual Meeting and Election held on June 9, 2020, will not be required to re-register for the purpose of voting at the Special District Meeting to be held on February 9, 2021. Persons whose names appear as eligible voters as of June 9, 2020 on the Voter Registration Books issued and maintained by the Nassau County Board of Elections, shall be eligible to vote at the Special District Meeting to be conducted on February 9, 2021.
Any qualified voter of the District who is in doubt as to whether she/he is registered to vote at the Special District Meeting to be held on February 9, 2021 should contact the District Clerk of the Bethpage Union Free School District at (516) 644-4002.
The Board of Registration will meet during the Special District Meeting to be held on February 9, 2021 for the purpose of preparing a register for meetings and elections held subsequent to such Special District Meeting.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the register will be open for inspection by a qualified voter of the School District on Thursday, February 4, 2021, up to and including the day of the election, February 9, 2021, Sunday excepted, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., with the exception of Saturday, February 6, 2021, when the hours will be from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that absentee ballots will be available for the election of School Board Members and the Budget Vote.
Applications for absentee ballots are available in the Office of the District Clerk, which is located in the Superintendent’s Office at the Administration Building, Cherry and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage. To have an absentee ballot mailed to your home, a completed and signed application must be in the District Clerk’s Office no later than Tuesday, February 2, 2021. Application for an absentee ballot may be made in person from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on any school day and up until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 8, 2021. Applications
can also be downloaded from the district’s website at: http://www.bethpagecommunity.com
The right to vote by absentee ballot will be subject to the approval of the Board of Registration. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk commencing with the issuance of the first absentee ballot and on each of the five days prior to the day of the election (except Sunday), between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, and on Saturday, February 6, 2021 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The list will also be available at the polling place on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Absentee ballots will be accepted in the Office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Any ballot received after that time will not be counted.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that Military Voters who are not currently registered to vote may apply to register as a qualified voter of the District by contacting the District Clerk at 10 Cherry Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714; Telephone: (516) 640-4002; or email: ebecker@bethpage.ws to receive an application to register as a qualified voter of the District for said Special District Meeting on February 9, 2021. The Military Voter may indicate their preference for receiving the registration application by mail, by facsimile or electronic mail (email). The application to register must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth day before the vote (January 14, 2021). The register of voters prepared and filed in the District Clerk’s office shall include the names of all military voters who submit a valid military voter registration. A military voter means a qualified voter of New York State who is in actual military service and will, therefore, be absent from the District in which he or she is qualified to vote on the day of registration or election or is discharged from military service within 30 days of an election, or a spouse, parent, child
or dependent of the military voter, accompanying or being with such voter, if a qualified voter of New York State and a resident of the same school district as the military voter, or military personnel residing on a military base within a school district in New York State for a period of 30 days immediately preceding said Special District Meeting.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that Military Voters who are qualified voters of the District may obtain an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk at The Office of the District Clerk 10 Cherry Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714; Telephone: (516) 6444002; or email: ebecker@bethpage.ws. A military ballot application must be returned in person or by mail to the Office of the District Clerk, no later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth day before the vote (January 14, 2021). The Military Voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application for a military ballot by mail, by facsimile or email. Military ballots will be mailed or otherwise distributed no later than 25 days (January 15, 2021) before said Special District Meeting. Military ballots must be received by the District Clerk (1) before the close of the polls on February 9, 2021 and showing a cancellation mark of the U.S postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the U.S. government or (2) by 5:00 P.M. on the date set for the Special District Meeting and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereof, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before said Special District Meeting. Irrespective of the preferred mode of transmission, the military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person. A list of all persons to whom military ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the said Office of the District Clerk during regular office hours, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (Prevailing Time), until the day of said Special District Meeting.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR
VOTING:
1. A person shall be a citizen of the United States.
2. Eighteen or more years of age.
3. A resident of the District for a period of thirty days or more next preceding the election at which he or she offers to vote.
4. Must be registered to vote. Only qualified voters who are registered to vote will be permitted to vote.
It being expressly understood that the intent of the District is to comply with the Executive Orders of the Governor stemming from the current coronavirus pandemic, should such in any way vary from procedures and timing referenced herein or as is otherwise usually applicable to conducting a Special District Meeting. Thus, all references to the timing, location, and manner of voting in the Special District Meeting as set forth herein, are subject to modification based on applicable legislation or direction by the Governor or other body with jurisdiction over the District.
BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Dated: December 15, 2020
ELENA BECKER District Clerk
BN 7486
4X 12/25, 01/08/2021,01/22,02/05
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU SARAHANNE ROSADO, Plaintiff, - againstIRFAN HUSSAIN SHAH, Defendant.
ACTION FOR A DIVORCE
To the above named Defendant: YOU ARE HEREBY
SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the state, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
Dated: Jericho, New York
June 10,2020
CHRISTINE A CHESTER,
ESQ.
LAW OFFICES OF MITCHELL J. DEVACK, PLLC
Attorneys for Plaintiff 410 Jericho Tpke, Ste 201 Jericho, NY 11753
Telephone: (516) 794-280
BN 7487
3X 01/08,15,22
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY 14, 2021, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:
BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, and New York State Executive Order No. 202.1, et. seq. notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY 14, 2021, at 7:00 P.M., to be held remotely, and the public has the ability to view or listen to such proceeding via live stream at www.oysterbaytown. com, and that such meeting will be recorded and later transcribed, to consider the following appeal: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY COMMENT ON APPLICATIONS.
COMMENTS TO BE HEARD ON THE NIGHT OF THE HEARING AND ENTERED INTO THE RECORD AT THAT TIME MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS BY 4 P.M.
WEDNESDAY BEFORE THE HEARING, COMMENTS TO BE ENTERED INTO THE RECORD FOLLOWING THE HEARING MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE NEXT WEDNESDAY FOLLOWING THE HEARING DATE BY 4 P.M.
COMMENTS SHALL BE SENT
EITHER: VIA E-MAIL TO: SCLONINGER@OYSTERBAYNY.GOV
VIA MAIL TO: ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
74 Audrey Avenue Oyster Bay, NY 11771
BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
APPEAL NO. 20-469 SYOSSET
DAOUD ERFAN: Variance to construct new dwelling on subdivided lot having less width of lot and roof pitch than permitted by Ordinance. PARCEL B N/s/o Convent Rd., 3599.64 ft. W/o Southwoods Rd, a/k/a 111 Convent Road, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 20-470
SYOSSET
CORI CALDERO: (A)
Variance to allow existing shed having less side/front yard setback (Marlene Drive) than permitted by Ordinance. (B)
Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard (Marlene Drive) than permitted by Ordinance.
SE/ cor. of Center Dr. & Marlene Dr., a/k/a 1 Center Drive, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 20-471
SYOSSET
LOUIS LAGALANTE: (A)
Variance to allow existing one story addition having less rear yard setback and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (B) Variance to allow existing one story addition and deck exceeding maximum gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing driveway having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.
E/s/o Barry Ln., 225.35 ft. N/o Sarah Ln., a/k/a 110 Barry Lane, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 20-472
SYOSSET
CHRIS SPIRIDIS: (A)
Variance to construct garage addition having less aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct driveway having less
side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.
N/s/o Split Rock Rd., 250 ft. W/o Calvin Ave., a/k/a 264 Split Rock Road, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 20-473
SYOSSET
HAGAY KEREN: Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard than permitted by Ordinance.
SE/ cor. of Richard Ln. & Ronald Ln, a/k/a 6 Richard Lane, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 20-474
SYOSSET
MCDONALD’S
COPORATION: (A) Variance to erect wall sign exceeding maximum number of wall signs per tenancy and on South side of building than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to erect ground sign exceeding maximum number of ground signs per access street than permitted by Ordinance.
N/s/o Jericho Tpke., 279 ft. W/o Cedar St., a/k/a 571 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, NY
JANUARY 4, 2021 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK SYO 4374
1X 01/08
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.
Name: 200 Oakwood Ave., LLC. County: Nassau. Secretary of State is designated as agent for service of process. Address for service and principal place of business: 100 Crossways Park West, Woodbury, NY 11797. Articles of Organization filed July 8, 2020. Any lawful business purpose.
JNJ 7951
6X 12/11,18,25,01/01,08,15
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.
Name: 232 Birchwood Ave., LLC. County: Nassau. Secretary of State is designated as agent for service of process. Address for service and principal place of business: 100 Crossways Park West, Woodbury, NY 11797. Articles of Organization filed September 7, 2017. Any lawful business purpose.
Continued on page 16
School district to review Amazon warehouse plans
From page 1
same manner that the district had hired Walden Engineering a few years ago, to review a proposal and Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed housing/retail/park Syosset Park.
Dr. Rogers also said that when the school district administration checked the Town of Oyster Bay website for any notice of newly scheduled Town meetings, none were noted as of December 23. Rogers said that on Christmas Eve, the Town posted an announcement about a January 6, 2021 Town Planning Advisory Board meeting. The notice also linked the details and documents about the Amazon application. That led to Syosset Schools scheduling the special board meeting during this holiday break.
“Obviously our board of education does not have its regular meeting scheduled until Monday, January 11, 2021. Given the size and complexity of the Traffic Study this includes, it became obvious we’d have to move as quickly
as possible and give the consultant as much time as possible to review the document, in order for us to be able to prepare comments. Our district’s intention remains to submit comments to the Town of Oyster Bay in their continued consideration of this project, with the site approval process of the town. On December 14, the board and administration also discussed how the district will go about preparing comments for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as they evaluate all aspects of remediation --- the deadline for those comments is January 11.
We are working in parallel in preparing both sets of comments,” Dr. Rogers said.
Dr. Rogers noted that the Town made a deadline of January 6th at 4 p.m. for comments to be submitted. He advised the school board trustees that was of the essence in obtaining information from the consulting engineering firm.
Prior to the board’s vote, the firm signed an attestation that there are no conflicts of interest, with an attestation
document prepared by Syosset Central School District’s attorneys. Dr. Rogers noted that this was confirmed with GPI prior to the December 29, 2020 meeting.
Resident Ralph Catapano submitted a public comment for the special school board meeting, but Dr. Rogers noted that the meeting was to consider hiring the consultant, and not to evaluate all aspects of the Amazon warehouse proposal.
He noted public comments received about the 700-page traffic study, stating Catapano’s conclusion that the study underestimates the amount of traffic that would be generated by the warehouse. Dr. Rogers also reviewed comments submitted by Syosset resident Kevin McKenna, relating to traffic potential for the area including for Underhill Boulevard.
“First of all the district is not undertaking a traffic study ourselves as in my understanding that entails counting of the number of vehicles at various times during the day and on multiple
occasions, timing of traffic lights. We are proposing to hire the consultants to evaluate the Traffic Study done by the project applicants. I understand that this measure is typical with the process followed, and in parallel to the process for the Environmental Impacts where we are not undertaking our own Remedial Action Work Plan but we’re evaluating the Remedial Action Work Plan so that we can comment on that plan in the comment period provided. We are reviewing the public submissions so we can comment on the public submissions -- the one difference is for the Environmental Impact study there was more of a timeframe, and with the Traffic Study this timeframe was a little compressed,” Dr. Rogers explained.
According to its website, Greenman-Pedersen Inc. was founded in 1966 and is “a leading engineering consulting firm that specializes in the innovative design and construction of transportation infrastructure and building projects.
Chamber of Commerce womens' group to hear nutritionist at meeting
From page 1
Tami will explain her journey in weight loss, share ideas from consulting her clients on food choices and nutrition, and offer some practical tips for living a healthier life.
“I tell clients to continue eating nutritious foods, find good quality produce and make the choices that will help them be as healthy as possible. Depending on seasonal items and sometimes vendors and stores’ supplies you must be somewhat flexible with the items to get. People can consider fresh peppers which are really high in Vitamin C. especially the red and yellow bell peppers, and also there’s a variety of berries that can provide nutrients,” Racaniello said.
If you’re out grocery shopping and fresh produce becomes difficult to select or stock is low, the frozen vegetables can often be a resource. Frozen is always a better option than canned because it’s often frozen right after the produce is picked ‘off the vine.’
Tami recommends using onions and garlic, which are complimentary pieces to healthy meals in building the immune system. She says the key is to allow them to sit out once they are cut for recipes, since at that point there’s a chemical reaction happening with the air. “They become anti-viral and much better for the immune system. Then when you cook them the properties stay,” she noted.
With any store-bought or grocery stand food it’s recommended to thoroughly wash every item, including anything coming in a can or carton such as soups and juices. “Definitely with any greens and salads brought home to
prep, make sure to ‘give them a bath’ and immerse them in the water for a few seconds. Once they are rinsed, continue to wash with water as you can pull out anything you observe that is not good or starting to go bad,” Tami commented.
A lot of people are snacking on junk foods while the pandemic work-fromhome schedules and convenience to snack are interwoven. Tami reminds people that sugar can cause negative effects on the immune system, and eating right should always go hand-in-hand with other good practices such as work/ life balance and reducing stress. She advises clients to be proactive in talking with their peers and family members about what they are doing, as well as finding ways to go for walks during appropriate weather,
When she’s gone shopping at food stores Tami chooses to bring her own pocket-size hand sanitizers and antibacterial disinfecting wipes to cleanse both a cart and things in the produce section or containers that she’s shopping for. She highly recommends not using gloves to inspect items at the food store since that could only bring more germs onto different things you pick up or touch, and even worse that can translate to you reaching for your cellphone while out and putting bacteria on its surface which would then be held close to your face for a call or as you look at the phone. Racaniello says the added precaution goes a long way in protecting against COVID-19 and other illnesses.
“Good practices are to wash your hands often, wipe down every hightouch surface from phones to keyboards, eyeglasses, car keys, light switches and
door handles. Sometimes we forget about that, but best to be safe,” she commented.
Tami noted the value of some herbal supplements including holy basil (tulsi), ashwagandha, astragalus, rhodiola and turmeric and in boosting immunity and in managing stress on the body and brain. Research has measured how such adaptogens can combat fatigue, enhance mental performance, and ease depression and anxiety, she said. Adaptogens are also noted to help indirectly with other health issues including pain, digestive concerns or insomnia.
“The adaptogens do help with stress and regulating hormones in the body; according to ayurvedic medicine these are a ‘holy trinity’ -- ashwagandha, holy basil and rhodiola. They use them to help with the balance of the body and normalizing stress levels. Also people can supplement with Zinc and Vitamin C and it’s important to also make sure to maintain moderate Vitamin D levels, with less sunlight in winter -- as a supplement, just for 1,000 to 2,000 IU (international units) per day. People are not getting outside as much. Always keep in mind for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day as a priority, with moderate outdoor walking being a perfect solution in many cases. Walk in your neighborhood or just continue to walk and move when and where you can,” Racaniello said in a 2020 interview.
Other important pieces of advice Racaniello conveys to clients are to try and manage sleep schedules and to utilize technology for positive health benefits with long-range implications, such as downloading meditation apps or fitness trackers. Good amounts of sleep
and reducing sugar intake will help boost the immune system.
“I tell my clients to select varieties -- pick fruits and vegetables that have much color, and to aim to have at least five different vegetables with each meal. If you want to have an omelette for breakfast that’s great if you can add in peppers and onions, with the onions cut and sitting out for 20 minutes prior to cooking. The vegetables are easy to put together, and with a pizza you can add these and more vegetables as toppings. Add on the broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, artichoke -- any combination gets to at least five vegetables per meal. Mushrooms are great sources of beta glucans and they are high in Vitamin D which is also great for the immune system,” Tami said. The mushrooms that are the top immune boosters are the shitake, maitake and oyster varieties.
The Syosset Woodbury Chamber continues building momentum for business networking, opportunities for promotions, and new client introductions in 2021. Its first meeting of the year is set for the regular “third Thursday” evening -- January 21, 2021 beginning at 5:30 p.m. over Zoom.
Local businesses and professionals are also able to submit information and payment online to become a new Chamber member for the year. Check the Chamber’s website, SyossetChamber. com, for more information, or email info@syossetchamber.com to receive news and notifications.
4
Edgewood Drive, Syosset
5 bd, 2 ba, 2,182 sqft Sold on: 12/6/20
Sold Price: $750,000
Type: Single Family Schools: Syosset
3 bd, 3 ba, 1,675 sqft Sold on: 12/10/20
Sold Price: $680,000
Type: Single Family Schools: Syosset
Continued from page 13
JNJ 7952
6X 12/11,18,25,01/01,08,15
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY 14, 2021, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:
BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, and New York State Executive Order No. 202.1, et. seq. notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY 14, 2021, at 7:00 P.M., to be held remotely, and the public has the ability to view or listen to such proceeding via live stream at www.oysterbaytown. com, and that such meeting will be recorded and later transcribed, to consider the following appeal:
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY COMMENT ON APPLICATIONS.
COMMENTS TO BE HEARD ON THE NIGHT OF THE HEARING AND ENTERED INTO THE RECORD AT THAT TIME MUST BE RECEIVED
BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS BY 4 P.M.
WEDNESDAY BEFORE THE HEARING, COMMENTS TO BE ENTERED INTO THE RECORD FOLLOWING THE HEARING MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE NEXT WEDNESDAY FOLLOWING THE HEARING DATE BY 4
P.M.
COMMENTS SHALL BE SENT EITHER: VIA E-MAIL TO: SCLONINGER@OYSTERBAYNY.GOV
VIA MAIL TO: ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
74 Audrey Avenue Oyster Bay, NY 11771
BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
APPEAL NO. 20-468
JERICHO
DORELL PINKUS: (A)
Variance to construct front roof over porch having less average front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.
(B) Variance to construct second story addition having less roof pitch than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to construct front one story addition and front roof over porch exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance.
S/s/o Middle Ln., 415.90 ft. E/o Bounty Ln., a/k/a 23 Middle Lane, Jericho, NY
JANUARY 4, 2021
BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK
JNJ 7954
1X 01/08
60 Day Challenge helps local businesses
consultant at Carpets & Us; Nancy Skolnik – owner of Carpets & Us; Nerissa Palermo – winner of grand prize; Vic Palermo; Jon Michael Probstein, Esq. – immediate past president of the Levittown Chamber of Commerce; Gary Tarlov – Cruise Planners Embark Nation, LLC; William Powell –William J. Powell Associates, LLC; Michael Levy – Levittown Chamber of Commerce president & Minuteman Press; and Don Patane – Main Street Financial Group
The Levittown Chamber of Commerce is pleased to award Nerissa Palermo $500 as the grand prize winner of the 60 Day Challenge. Nerissa purchased carpet from Carpets & Us located at 66 Gardiners Avenue in Levittown. The Chamber ran a 60 Day Challenge, offering an opportunity to earn up to $2,000 in cash prizes for shopping and doing business with Levittown Chamber of Commerce member businesses. Michael Levy, president of the Chamber, commented, “The goal of this initiative was to help our local businesses recover from the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic caused. Our purpose as a Chamber is to help our Chamber businesses as well as our community. By shopping locally and supporting our businesses we are keeping tax dollars in Nassau County. Now more than ever it
is important to support small businesses.” Points were earned for purchases made at Levittown Chamber of Commerce businesses. Customers mailed in an entry form along with proof of purchases. Nine prizes were awarded ranging from $50-$500. Nerissa & her husband, Vic, have been long time customers of Carpets & Us. “Nancy Skolnik, the owner of Carpets & Us, and her staff did a wonderful job promoting the challenge,” commented Levy. “They had many winners from their business. Our hope with the promotion is for winners of the Levittown Chamber of Commerce 60 Day Challenge to use their winnings to shop at chamber businesses.” Looking to join the Chamber or shop Chamber businesses? Please visit levittownchamber.com or call 516-520-8000 for information.
Louise Cassano – LuCas Communication; Stephen Killard – Carpets & Us; Carol Jean – design
January 8, 2021
New York’s Adirondacks: Driveable Winter Adventure Playground
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Three of the best ski areas in New York are actually owned by New York State and operated by the Olympic Regional Development Authority –Whiteface and Gore Mountain in the Adirondacks and Belleayre in the Catskills.
Whiteface Mountain
Top of the list for ski areas with a world-class reputation is Whiteface, site of the 1932 and 1980 Olympics, where in addition to skiing, you can visit Olympic venues and even participate (biathalon, anyone? skate on the Olympic Oval, drive a coaster down the bobsled track).
Whiteface offers the greatest vertical, 3430 ft. from the summit at 4867 ft, of any lift-serviced mountain in the Northeast. This is a serious mountain – actually three mountains, Whiteface summit is a 4,867 ft.; Lookout Mountain tops at 4,000 ft.; Little Whiteface at 3,676 ft. - with more expert terrain, more long, rolling groomers (including the longest single intermediate run in the Northeast, the 2.1 mile-long Wilmington Trail) in the East. It offers 300 skiable acres: 89 runs (24% beginner, 44% intermediate, 33% advanced) and 53 acres of glades and five terrain parks, serviced by 13 lifts, including the gorgeous Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride that cuts an aerial path through the Adirondack Mountains on its way to the peak of Little Whiteface.
Whiteface is my favorite ski destination in New York, largely because of Lake Placid, the ambiance and the extraordinary activities.
was like to be an Olympic Bobsledder during the 1980 Winter Games on the new Cliffside Mountain Coaster at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, which boasts being the longest year-round mountain coaster in the USA. You control the ride - you have the ability to go as slow or as fast as you’d like. Race your family & friends alongside the 1980 bobsled track to the bottom. During the scenic ride to the top of the Cliffside Coaster you learn about the inspiring Olympic history of the Lake Placid Sliding Center.
Other attractions and recent upgrades to the Olympic Sites include the new Sky Flyer Zipline at the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex, the new SkyRide Experience, an 8-person gondola that brings guests from the Olympic Jumping Complex’s base lodge to the 90-meter
and 120-meter ski jump towers, a new glass-enclosed elevator ride to the top of the ski jumps for a panoramic vista of the Adirondack High Peaks (and to experience what the jumpers see as they start to accelerate towards the end of the ramp!), new Nordic trails at Mt. Van Hovenberg (where you can try your hand at the biathalon).
There is no lodging on the mountain (it’s a wilderness area, after all), but many lovely inns, bnbs, hotels and resorts nearby, including the Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa and Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, conveniently located in Lake Placid village, walking distance to everything, and accessible to a convenient shuttle bus to the mountain (www.golden-arrow.com).
GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR
Also High Peaks Resort which offers three unique lodging experiences overlooking Mirror Lake and the Adirondacks: The Resort, a traditional hotel featuring 105 guest rooms and suites (newly renovated in March 2020); the modern retro-vibe Lake House with 44 guest rooms; and the private and serene Waterfront Collection, featuring 28 guest rooms including 10 suites on the shores of Mirror Lake. Amenities include a spa, two indoor and two outdoor heated pools, fitness center, restaurant, private access to Mirror Lake (skates), admission to the Nordic Center, complimentary use of snowshoes. Dogs welcome. (High Peaks Resort, 2384 Saranac Avenue, Lake Placid, NY 12946, 518-523-4411, 800-755-5598, www. highpeaksresort.com)
The newest additions are The Lake Placid Inn (opened July 2020) and the Saranac Waterfront Lodge, an eco-luxe independent boutique hotel that opened Nov. 1, 2020.
Whiteface, Lake Placid, 800-4626236, 518-946-2223; Olympic Center, 518-523-1655; whiteface.com. Vacation planning assistance at www.whitefaceregion.com, lakeplacid.com.
Gore Mountain
As a perennial blue-trail/intermediate skier, Gore Mountain is one of my favorite places to ski. Nestled in the Adirondacks, it offers expansive views of a real wilderness. You actually feel as if you were in the Rockies. Gore Mountain is New York State’s largest ski and ride resort with. 439 skiable acres, it spans four mountains, including Gore, Bear Mountain, Burnt Ridge Mountain
Continued on next page
GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....
New York’s Adirondacks: Driveable Winter Adventure Playground
Continued from previous page
and Little Gore Mountain, a vertical drop of 2,537 feet from the summit at 3,600 ft, 121 trails (10% beginner, 50% intermediate and 40% advanced), including 110 alpine trails (longest is 4.4 miles), with 28 glades, 8 freestyle areas and 11 cross-country and snowshoe trails, all serviced by 14 lifts.
There is no on-mountain lodging, but there is the delightful Copperfield Inn (www.copperfieldinn.com/) in nearby North Creek which we enjoyed one Christmas; for a grand, luxurious stay, The Sagamore, in Bolton Landing on Lake George is 45 minutes away (www.
thesagamore.com).
Gore Mountain, 793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek, NY 12853, Snow Phone: 518-251-5026, info 518-251-2411, info@goremountain.com, goremountain.com.
More Winter Adirondack Activities
In addition to skiing and snowboarding at Whiteface in Lake Placid and Gore Mountain in North Creek, there are plenty of other ways to embrace the cold in the Adirondacks: hiking (including five fire tower trails in Hamilton County that travelers can visit and climb even in the winter!), cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dogsledding, pond hockey, ice skating and ice fishing.
Mirror Lake offers plenty of activities including skating, cross country skiing, toboggan rides, and dog sledding. The Wild Center in Tupper Lake transforms into a winter playground offering Winter Wild Walk, a learn-to ice-fish program, snowshoeing.
Ausable Chasm, the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, offers winter tours of frozen waterfalls and spectacular sights, less than an hour from Lake Placid. And at the end of the day, Main Street Lake Placid has plenty of boutique shops and restaurants to welcome visitors in from the cold.
The Adirondack Wayfinder, a new virtual service that showcases the park through curated thematic road trip itin-
ASK CARRIE
eraries. (www.adirondackwayfinder. com) See also www.iskiny.com.
Want to Create a Retirement Paycheck? Here Are Some Things to Consider
BY CARRIE SCHWAB-POMERANTZ
Dear Carrie: I just retired and am trying to figure out how to maximize all of my resources -- Social Security, a small pension and my investments. Given RMDs, taxes, etc., it feels overwhelming! Can you help? -- A Reader
Dear Reader: This is a great question because it’s an essential issue for every retiree. After decades of receiving a regular paycheck, suddenly you’re faced with having to figure out the best way to pull money from your different accounts -- whether that’s a 401(k), an IRA or a regular investment account. On top of that, you need to make decisions about Social Security and possibly a pension or annuity.
Don’t get me wrong. Retirement can be a wonderful time to enjoy the freedom you’ve worked so many years to achieve. But as you make the transition from being a saver to a spender, chances are you’ll have to manage your financial life even more carefully than in the past.
Why? Because now you not only need to stay on top of your investments, your spending and your tax bill but you’re also responsible for creating your own retirement paycheck. Yes, it can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be if you take a systematic approach.
Assess All Your Resources
After decades of working and saving, it’s pretty common to have more than just one investment account. Are you including everything? Contact your old employers if you’re not sure. If they’re no longer in business or you have difficulty contacting them, try the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or the Missing Money website. Consider consolidating accounts to help simplify managing your investments.
Also think about how your home may fit into the picture. Are downsizing, renting or a reverse mortgage potential options? How about part-time work or consulting? Do you have a hobby you can
turn into a money-making enterprise? Don’t neglect these hidden assets and opportunities that can boost your income.
Shore up Your Cash Reserves
Make sure you have enough cash or cash equivalents (savings accounts, money market accounts or short-term CDs) to last at least one year. These days, cash may not earn much, but it’s important to have enough for emergencies. To avoid having to sell investments in a prolonged bear market, consider keeping one to four years’ worth of portfolio withdrawals in more liquid investments.
Consider Predictable Sources of
Income
Start by estimating how much you believe you’ll receive from Social Security and any employer pensions. It’s crucial to make smart decisions when claiming Social Security, as these benefits represent about one-third of the income for the average retiree.
If you don’t have a traditional pension plan, are unsure about having enough money and would like to have more guaranteed income to cover your essential expenses, you may want to look into lifetime income options through an annuity. Annuities aren’t for everyone. There are lots of different types, and they can be difficult to understand, but they’re uniquely designed to help accumulate money on a tax-sheltered basis, provide guaranteed lifetime income or both.
In its simplest form, an annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company. You pay for a promise or certain guarantees, such as the ability to receive income guaranteed for life (subject to the claims paying ability of the insurer). You can often check out how much income certain annuities might generate with calculators.
A few words of caution: Be sure to pay close attention to fees, commissions and surrender charges. An investment professional who understands your situ-
ation and works in your best interest can help you examine how employer pension options, health issues, Social Security claiming decisions and income goals in retirement all come into play when you’re thinking about an annuity.
Try a Total Return Approach
Living off interest and dividends without touching growth or the original investment may be an option for a few retirees, but it’s not a likely solution for most people. An alternative is a total return approach in which your withdrawal consists of all sources (interest, dividends and growth) and may or may not involve touching the original investment to make up what you need. This can provide you with more flexibility as well as create more income. You can use the 4% rule as a starting point on how much to withdraw in retirement.
Don’t Forget Taxes and RMDs
Strategically withdrawing from traditional, Roth and taxable accounts to lower capital gains taxes and keep your tax bracket low can help you pay less in taxes and stretch out your savings. Roth accounts, for example, can provide you with qualified tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
If you turned 70 1/2 before 2020, you may be subject to required minimum distributions (RMDs) from certain retirement accounts like traditional IRAs and 401(k)s under IRS rules. For 2020 and after, you may be subject to RMDs beginning at age 72. Failure to take mandatory withdrawals can be costly: a 50% penalty on top of income taxes!
You’ll also want to ensure you have adequate tax withholding from retirement accounts. You can do this by making estimated payments or asking the firms you work with to withhold amounts. Not withholding enough could result in IRS penalties. Withholding too much means you’re making an interest-free loan to the government.
New Help for a New Era
If this all sounds like a bit much to handle and you’re not a do-it-yourselfer, don’t worry. New options and services can help guide you through the process of withdrawing funds in the most cost-effective and tax-efficient way possible. This may also be an ideal time to seek out professional guidance, especially as you first establish your footing as a new retiree. One final thought. As you navigate your retirement, your financial needs will likely evolve along with your priorities. So stay involved, flexible and willing to make adjustments when necessary. This is your time to take in all that life has to offer. After decades of hard work, you deserve nothing less.
Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, Certified Financial Planner, is president of the Charles Schwab Foundation and author of “The Charles Schwab Guide to Finances After Fifty.” Read more at http://schwab.com/book. You can email Carrie at askcarrie@schwab. com. The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice. COPYRIGHT 2020 CHARLES SCHWAB & CO., INC. MEMBER SIPC. DIST BY CREATORS SYNDICATE, INC. (#1220-04G1)
Crossword Answers
Dreading.... or dreaming... Do you want to
BY MARJORIE GOTTLIEB WOLFE
U. S. employers first hired women as office workers in significant numbers after 1870. Men continued to fill office jobs after 1870 but women took the largest share of clerical jobs. In 1900, 92.7% of women clerical workers were single. It was clearly viewed as transitory employment.
One woman interviewed in the 1930s wrote:
“I’m married and the next day I was out of a job…They were going to let somebody go..If I was married, then I’m the one who was SUPPOSEDLY being supported by my husband, so I didn’t need the job as much as somebody else. Jobs at that time were because you needed them.”
The typical office of the early 1900s bore little resemblance to Bob Cratchit’s office of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol,” of the 1840s. Office workers sat in desks arranged in long parallel rows in a “hygienic” setting with electric lamps, large windows, and a supervisor whose only job was to watch his workers and increase productivity.
Initially, employers had to address the fears of many who argued that the hiring of female clericals would destroy the family or a woman’s femininity.
Anne Helen Petersen wrote an article titled, “Are You Sure You Want To Go Back to The Office?” She says that “Many companies are preparing to bring employees back in the spring or summer, depending on how fast the vaccines roll out.”
Juliette Kayyem says, “The corporate culture that so many employers prize is based on a level of interaction that will not be regained simply by
being in the same building.” Shown below is a poem that explores the challenges of secretarial work and the return to the office of 2021:
I Remember
the office receptionist, “deceptionist,” and gatekeeper.
The secretary who when asked by her employer to get his broker on the phone, replies, “stock” or “pawn?”
Dehumanized women workers who were once referred to as “office wives” or decorative “girl Fridays.”
Women who learned to type on Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing…and those who banged away on their I.B.M Selectric. Those who recall Shire Hite, who used an advertising campaign with the tagline, “The Typewriter That’s So Smart, She Doesn’t Have to Be.”
Women like Karen Nussbaum and Ellen Cassedy, who founded 9 to 5, a new organization for women office workers.
“Plug and play” new hires who don’t need any training. Cold calling individuals - Smilin’ and dialin.’
“Transitioned,” “severed,” “surplussed,” “non-retained” and “deselected” employees fired via Zoom.
Nine to Fivers who remember when “a secretary’s pad was to write in, not spend the night in.” “Unkeyboardinated” - those unable to type without repeatedly making mistakes.
Secretaries who worked when the 3 R’s represented (the) Royal [typewriter] Road to Romance.
Those who haven’t learned that “a typo can mean the difference between hired and fired.”
Happy office people, too—the Joy Polloi—who are assisted by robots named Robot Redford, Archie Bumper, and Beeping Tom.
The recipient of office jokes: “Today is Administrative Professionals Week. Take yours to lunch—take mine, too.”
Workers who ask, “Can I stir fry an idea in your think-wok”?
Share
And I REMEMBER the “well seasoned” people who can relate to this Oct. 16, 1966, New York Times job ad: Secretary needed. Brite-eyed lassie to work in a “one-girl” office in the Empire State Building.
MARJORIE GOTTLIEB WOLFE is a retired business educator and author of two books on Yiddish. She will be giving a Zoom talk on Feb. 17, at 1 p.m. on “The 3 B’s: Brooklyn, (the) Bronx, and the Bungalows of Rockaway Beach.” Contact the Friedberg JCC in Oceanside for details.
About to hit a milestone?
life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper, (and it's free of charge for subscribers!) Email editor@gcnews.com
BY TOM MARGENAU
It has been my custom for most of the past 23 years to write a year-end column that summarizes the Social Security changes and updates scheduled to take place the following year.
Almost all Social Security beneficiaries are familiar with the most popular and publicized upcoming change: the increase in monthly benefit checks for 2021 due to the automated cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA. In fact, Social Security recipients have probably already received a letter from the Social Security Administration telling them of the expected increase.
All Social Security checks are going up 1.3% in 2021. The COLA is based on something called the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. This is the official measuring stick the SSA has used to determine COLAs for the past 46 years. If you want to learn more about this measure, check out the website of the folks who maintain it: the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You’ll find them at https://www.bls.gov.
I always dread mentioning COLAs in this column because every time I do, I am flooded with emails from readers complaining that the increase is not enough. (Maybe not unexpectedly, not once in 23 years has anyone ever written to me to say that their COLA increase was too high!)
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 I 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.
OK, back to the 2021 Social Security COLA. Due to these increases, the average monthly retirement check will be $1,543 in 2021, a $20 increase from the 2020 level. The maximum Social Security check for a worker turning full retirement age next year will be $3,148, compared with $3,011 in 2020. And please note that $3,148 is the maximum for someone turning full retirement age in 2021. That does not mean it is the maximum Social Security payment anyone can receive. There are millions of Social Security beneficiaries who get much more than that, primarily because they worked well past their FRA and/or delayed starting their benefits until age 70.
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. In 2021, the basic Part B premium will be $148.50, a $3.90 increase from the 2020 rate. Wealthy people will pay more than the basic premium -- as much as $504.90 per month for the richest Americans.
I don’t want to get into this complicated issue of Medicare premiums oth-
Social Security Update for 2021
er 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. Part B Medicare premium increases have nothing to do with the consumer price index. Instead, they must be set at a level that covers 25% of the cost of running the program. Taxpayers pick up the remaining 75%. (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 $137,700 in 2020 to $142,800 in 2021. In other words, people who earn more than $142,800 this year 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. (Bill Gates 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 2020, people who were working earned one credit for each $1,410 in Social Security taxable income. But no one earns more than four credits per year. In other words, once you made $5,640, your Social Security record has been credited with the maximum four credits or quarters of coverage. In 2021, the one-credit limit goes up to $1,470, meaning you will have to earn $5,880 this 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 survivors 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 $18,240 in 2020 and will be $18,960 in 2021. For every $2 a person earns over those limits, $1 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 $48,600 in 2020 to $50,520 this year.
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 2020, the law defined substantial work as any job paying $1,260 or more per month. In 2021, that substantial earnings level increases to $1,310 monthly.
Finally, the Supplemental Security Income basic federal payment level for one person goes up from $783 in 2020 to $794 in 2021. SSI is a federal welfare program administered by the SSA, 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 a book with all the answers. It’s called “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” You can find the book at creators.com/books. Or look for it on Amazon or other book outlets.
COPYRIGHT 2020
How has real estate been doing during the pandemic?
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
First off, I want to wish my wife a happy 45th anniversary, and at least another 30+ to go!
I hope everyone let their hair down, had some crazy fun, relaxed a bit on New Year’s Eve to end the year on a higher note, and tried to put aside the worst year that we’ve ever experienced! But we are not out of the woods, just yet!
So many lives, businesses, jobs, and families have been impacted, disrupted, and devastated during 2020 and you would think that there were no positive situations or events whatsoever. However, for those renting, at least there were laws passed where one could not be evicted or foreclosed upon, and has now been extended as of 12/27/20. However, how long that will be in effect is anyone’s guess, especially if you have lost your business, job, or your salary was drastically reduced. How about the small landlord whose income is dependent upon the tenants paying their rent, what about them? It appears that President Trump had finally signed the next stimulus package to help the millions who are unemployed and in desperate need of money to survive. What about those restaurateurs and small business people who applied but never received any assistance through the PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) or the EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan), program. I wonder how many thousands of restaurants and small and large businesses and jobs have been and will be lost forever due to not having enough money to weather the storm and survive through the last 9 months and in 2021? So many are barely in a survival mode as it can be verified and experienced by all the reports and visuals online and on TV by the countless food lines in and around Long Island and throughout the U.S. My Rotary Club of Great Neck through the smart and hard work of Roger “the organizer” Chizever and all the volunteers (including myself), had
put together and provided 1200 complete turkey dinners for a family of four to those who were financially unable to provide their own dinners on Thanksgiving. So some good and caring moments and events occurred during 2020 so everything wasn’t a total disaster. Moreover, one of the remarkable shining stars and beneficiaries, unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, were those who purchased a primary residence, already owned their home, as well as those with rental investment properties outside major cities e.g.(NYC, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, and Miami, etc.). Those investors were able to rent their places to those leaving higher densely populated locations and their higher infection rates and were part of the real estate boom as well. Those fortunate enough to become first time purchasers gained above average appreciation and increased value year over year. Prices around the U.S. have gone up quite aggressively from 9.310+% depending on the town and state. Nassau Country showed a September median price of $590,000 with an increase of 9.3%. Suffolk Country median prices in September rose to $464,375 year over year with a startling increase of 13% as per One Key MLS (our new corporate name of the multiple listing service of Long Island since we partnered with Westchester MLS, Hudson-Gateway, making our membership 40,000+ strong). All increases were way above the inflation rate of 1.18% as of October 2020 and the core inflation rate of 1.61%, excluding the energy and food sectors, because they have wide swings making the inflation rate less accurate. 2020 was a perfect storm for real estate, as it came in like a lion, then became a lamb for a few months, and has now roared back like
a lion once again with the help of our crazy 50 year low in interest rates, the still very strong demand, and the historical setting lowest inventory on record contributing to this event. Even though our industry was shut down from March 22-June 10th, the market came back like a bull and remarkably sales skyrocketed beyond anyone’s wildest dreams and expectations; although lower than 2019, prices ended up much higher compared to 2019, as noted earlier. So, 2021 should continue the surge in demand, rates should similarly hold over the next 12-24 months, and supply will still be historically low. However, our national debt, which currently stands at 27 trillion dollars (added to our humongous and unsustainable international debt), is going to go up again after this 2nd stimulus package. How long we can keep printing money and heading down this slippery slope is anyone’s guess. However, as home prices continue to escalate, there will be more families and individuals who will not be strong enough financially to qualify for a mortgage or not have enough for their down payment. So for the time being they will have to drop out and continue to rent or stay put in their in-laws or family’s homes to continue to save more money and this could slow our market a bit. However, eventually, they will jump back into the game sooner if prices were to stabilize or possibly decrease, which for the foreseeable future I really do not see that occurring. However, for now foreclosures and evictions have been halted and extended through February 28 and what will happen afterwards no one can predict. Eventually it will end but how many of the 4 million+ homeowners granted forbearance on their mortgages for a year during the Covid10 Pandemic will go into foreclosure and will enter our current low inven-
EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE
tory market? But no one can really know or accurately predict the future until decisions are made and the future arrives and what will and does happen that could curtail sales and lower prices for those sitting on the sidelines waiting to come back in the game and purchase their first home.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 39 years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.). He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to http://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s tumultuous Covid-19 pandemic market without any obligation or “strings” attached. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
You can email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your request or ideas, suggestions or interview you for a specific topic and a Q & A for a future column with your name, email and cell number. He will email or call you back and respond to your request ASAP as long as he has your complete name, cell, email and/or full home or business address. Again, for a “FREE” 15 minute consultation, he can also be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com or to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.
Binder Clips Useful To Organize the Home & Other Tips From Readers
BY MARY HUNT
ORGANIZED LINENS
Binder clips are a great way to organize not just your papers but your linens, too. Clip together folded and matched napkins and placemats in your linen closet for quick retrieval. Binder clips come in many sizes -- available in office supply stores, online, Walmart and Target, too.
SWEATER SHAVER
Instead of buying an expensive pill-shaver for your old sweaters, try using a pumice stone. Rub gently and firmly over the sweater to remove pilling.
CHOPPING WALNUTS
To chop walnuts or pecans quickly and without creating a big mess on your counter, use a rolling pin. Place the nuts in a large plastic bag, and seal the bag. Then roll the rolling pin over the nuts until they are well crushed.
KEEP WINDSHIELD CLEAR
Even during the harshest winter weather, it’s easy to make sure you’ll never have to scrape ice off your ungaraged car again when you do this: When you park it for the night, wipe the windshield and windows with undiluted plain white vinegar. I keep vinegar in a spray bottle in a handy spot inside the car. This will prevent frost and ice from building up on the glass, and that means no more scraping. 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.” Tips can be submitted at tips.everydaycheapskate.com/. 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 “Debt-Proof Living.” COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM
ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900 AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com
Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram
New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Great Neck News
DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.
2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:
1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”
2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com
Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.
Visa and MasterCard Accepted
Are you a professional?
Our Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.
• Competitive Pay Rate
• Flexible Scheduling
• All Shifts & Locations available
EMPLOYMENT
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED $18 50 P/H
NYC $16 P/H LI $13.50 P/H
UPSTATE NY! If you need care from your relative, friend or neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as a personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA program. No Certificates needed. Phone: 347-713-3553
SCHOOL BUS AND VAN DRIVERS
Best Pay/Benefits package in the industry. Start at $25.19 Bus and $21.97 Van. Call Huntington Coach 631-271-8931
www.huntingtoncoach.com
ADVERTISING
SALESPERSON
Local newspaper looking for advertising salesperson. Part-time position, flexible hours. Self-motivated Commission-based. CALL: 516-746-3028
SITUATION WANTED
CAREGIVER AVAILABLE
EMPLOYMENT
SITUATION WANTED
ELDER CARE Experienced woman seeks position to care for the elderly live in or live out. Certified HHA. Excellent references. Please call 516-800-6442
EMPLOYMENT
CAREER TRAINING
COMPUTER & IT TRAINING program! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)
TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING
Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Kind hearted caregiver w/recent negative Covid test seeks position. Experienced in geriatrics, stroke, alzheimers. Excellent references available. Call Verona 631-772-4385 or 772-214-8624 (cell)
HEARING AIDS!! Buy one/ get one FREE! High-quality rechargeable Nano hearing aids priced 90% less then competitors. Nearly invisible! 45 day money back guarantee! 833-4480751
Possession of a valid New York State Driver’s License with no convictions for moving violations during the past year and appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated. Applicants for this position require Civil Service Clearance and must be fingerprinted in compliance with New York State Education Department regulations. Applications are available online at https://www.herricks.org > District>Human Resources or at the Community Center, Main Office, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, NY 11040 HERRICKS SCHOOL DISTRICT Substitute and Part Time positions needed for School Monitors, Teacher Aides, Cleaners and Food Service Workers to assist with various duties in the Herricks School District. Applications are available online at https://www.herricks.org> District>Human Resources or at the Community Center, Main Office, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, NY 11040.
Single woman looking to build her family by adoption. Any ethnicity welcome, expenses paid. Please call 347-470-5228 or my attorney: 800-582-3678 for information
ANNOUNCEMENTS
EVENTS
COVID-19 TESTING AVAILABLE
COVID-19 PCR Nasal Swab and /or ANTIBODY testing Mon, Wed & Fri in Floral Park Doctor’s Office without wait or lines. Scheduled by appointment. 516-488-1414
Our Online Store stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange Items to Consign?
Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org
All proceeds benefit
The Garden City Historical Society
Like us on Facebook & Instagram
INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now!
Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information.
Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!
WANTED TO BUY
LOOKING TO BUY!
Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104
MARKETPLACE
WANTED TO BUY
TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC.
Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com
TAG SALE
GARDEN CITY
INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN
Wednesday, January 13, 2021 9:30 a.m.
136 Washington Ave. Garden City, NY 11530 Furniture, household items, artwork, tools, rugs, golf clubs, collectibles and much more!
Only 10 people will be let in the house at a time and sign in that morning. Please bring mask/gloves. Visit www.invitedsales.com for pictures & details!!
PETS
PET SERVICES
CHERYL’S PET SITTING SERVICE
Dependable pet sitter will walk and feed your precious pet while you work or travel. Also available to board small dogs.
Many excellent references. Call 516-971-3242
AUTOMOTIVE
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS
$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h. DMV 10#1303199 Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516-297-2277
AUTOMOTIVE
AUTOS WANTED
AUTO BUYERS! We visit you. Highest cash paid. Or donate, tax deduct + cash. DMV#1303199. Please call Luke 516-VAN-CARS OR 516-297-2277
DRIVE OUT BREAST CANCER:
Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup 24hr response Tax deduction Easy to do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755
REAL ESTATE FOR RENT
OFFICE SPACE
GARDEN CITY
PRIME 7th STREET LOCA TION
Two second floor windowed offices available.
285 sq ft 2 room suite over looking 7th St., asking $1225 month.
150 sq ft 1 room office, asking $725/month.
Rent includes everything. Call Owner 516-510-9452.
and even fiction. In our
stipend of $25.00, and articles should be
If you want to be published and be part of an issue of Discovery, you may submit your article
SERVICES
JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING
We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship
Thousands of frames to choose from!!
Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495
SUNFLOWER FINE ART GALLERIES MIRRORS PICTURE FRAMING Paintings
Art/Photo Restoration Printing, Hanging Services
Shadowboxes, Smiles
6 A Terminal Road West Hempstead, NY 11552 www.sunflowerfineart.com
901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122
www.dangelolawassociates.com
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
AMBIANCE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
*Handyman & Remodeling
*Kitchen Installations
*Furniture Assembly
*Finish Carpentry
*Minor Electrical & Plumbing
28 year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154
FREE ESTIMATES
Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone.
Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146
LEAK REPAIRS
24 Hour Service
Bathrooms, showers, Kitchens Call 516-668-5624
MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS
Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies
Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890
SERVICES
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
MASONRY
All types of stonework
Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps. Free Estimates
Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000
Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886
THE GENERAC PWRcell
a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-888-871-0194
HEALTH SERVICES
FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC
Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC
Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion
Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams
Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections .com
You’re just one call away !! from a clean home or office. Thorough and Professional Cleaning at affordable rates! Call today for Free Estimate Anna: 516-360-8340
SERVICES
A & J MOVING & STORAGE:
Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving .com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405
DISH TV
$59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-609-9405
Local centenarians honored on birthdays
Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) rang in the New Year by celebrating the birthdays of two Plainview centenarians. On Saturday, Jan. 2, Legislator Drucker joined the family of Mimi Cooper to celebrate her 100th birthday with assistance from the Plainview Volunteer Fire Department and Atria Plainview. And on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020, Legislator Drucker commemorated Olga Marcin’s 101st birthday after her family, friends and neighbors marked the occasion with a car parade.
“As we recognized the end of one year and heralded the arrival of 2021, it was truly a privilege to join the Plainview community in recognizing two remarkable residents,” Legislator Drucker said. “I’m grateful to Olga Marcin, Mimi Cooper, and their families for inviting me to start the New Year at these joyous and uplifting celebrations.”
after receiving a Nassau County Citation from Legislator Drucker in honor of her 101st birthday on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020.
Legislator Drucker presents a Nassau County Citation to Plainview resident Mimi Cooper on Saturday, Jan. 2 to commemorate her 100th birthday.
Photos courtesy Office of Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker
