Jericho-Syosset News Journal (1/24/20)

WARM HEARTS

December. While it was cold outside, inside the boutique hearts were warm. Photo by Gina James

Couples invited to renew wedding vows at Town Hall

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to renew their wedding vows at a group ceremony scheduled for this Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14, at Oyster Bay Town Hall. The special ceremony will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include free photography and wedding cake for all guests.

“Valentine’s Day is recognized

as the most romantic day of the year, and many couples celebrate their wedding anniversaries on this special day,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We look forward to sharing in this special occasion for our residents looking to renew their marriage vows and declare their endless love for one another.”

The ceremony will take place at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay hamlet. The event is offered free of charge to Town residents but reservations are required. Residents interested in renewing their wedding vows should contact the Town’s Public Information Office at (516) 624-6380.

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Faith Lutheran Church hosts Chamber of Commerce meeting

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Although it was a cold winter night, the first Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce meeting of the year, held at Faith Lutheran Church in Syosset on Thursday, January 16, drew a good crowd of over 50 members, including several Syosset residents and area professionals. Faith Church’s Pastor Rebecca Sheridan welcomed attendees, including the Chamber of Commerce board of directors, to the Church’s facility and gathering spaces at 231 Jackson Avenue.

Sheridan said the Church serves as a spiritual home for people and as a welcoming place for all in the community. Several times every week, the Church works as a community hub and gathering place for local organizations. For last week’s Chamber meeting she kept all Church facilities open, including the sanctuary, inviting attendees to tour inside, upstairs and downstairs and get to know the Church, herself and administrators including leadership of Faith Nursery School. Light refreshments were served and attendees enjoyed a great night of networking.

“Our vision for 2020 and beyond is ‘Faith Opens Doors’ -- currently we have opened our doors to several community groups that meet in our lower-level space almost every night of the week. We have a Boy Scouts’ troop, adult Bible study meets on Saturdays, and we host four AA groups that hold meetings on some weeknights. We also have many programs for children; one part I am most excited about is our Faith Nursery School for three and four-yearold children -- it has been operating since 1965,” Pastor Sheridan said.

Maureen Nickel, incoming president of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, commented on women in leadership in every aspect of the community, with Pastor Rebecca Sheridan as one of the newest examples.

“This year 2020, will mark the centennial anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment which gave women the right to vote (women’s suffrage). And so how fitting is it to hold our first meeting of the new year at Faith Lutheran where a woman, Pastor Rebecca Sheridan,

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Berry Hill students enjoyed a Holiday Boutique organized by the PTA during

Free musical performances at Libraries

The Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community and Youth Services will be offering free musical performances during the month of February 2020 at local libraries throughout the Town to continue the 2019-2020 Distinguished Artists Concert Series, which will continue to run monthly through May 2020.

Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh stated, “The Town is proud to offer these free musical performances, which are held monthly throughout the year. I invite residents to take advantage of these entertainment opportunities as they truly represent a diverse selection. These concerts are presented without charge, there is no better bargain in town!”

Upcoming performances for February 2020 include:

• Broken Reed Sax Quartet –Works for Saxophone Quartet Based on Doo-Wop Selections Redone in a Creative Jazz Idiom on Sunday, February 2, 2020 at 2 p.m. in the Locust Valley Public Library.

• Simply Diamond – A Tribute

to the Music of Neil Diamond on Sunday, February 9, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Locust Valley Public Library.

• Boston Burglars – A Unique, Upbeat Blend of American & Irish Music on Sunday, February 16, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. in the Massapequa Public Library.

Ricardo Rosa & Friends – Popular Song Selections Mixed with Favorite Arias & Duets from Operas by Famous Composers onSunday, February 23, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Jericho Public Library (tickets required for performances at Jericho Public Library as space is limited, tickets available at the library beginning on January 23, 2020, for more information call 516-935-6790.)

The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For further information, please call (516) 797-7900 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

Casino trip planned

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

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

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

be approximately 8:30 p.m.

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

Reservations: Call Barbara at (516) 935-5576

Please make checks payable to “CDA”.

The first to pay is the first on the bus, etc.

Blood drive

Manetto Hill Jewish Center will be hosting a blood drive on Sunday, February 2 from 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

The Jewish Center is located at 244 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview.

Eligibility criteria:

Bring donor card or ID with you

Minimum weight 110 lbs

Age 16-75 (16-year-olds must have parental permission. Age 76 and over need doctor's note.)

Eat well (low fat) and drink fluids No tattoos for the past 12 months. For information,  please call 516-9355454.

Syosset Woodbury Rotary welcomes guest speaker

Michael Halperin, a board member for Habitat for Humanity, was a guest speaker at a recent Rotary meeting.

Michael wanted to inform us that this organization doesn’t give away houses to those in need. The individuals who receive these homes need to donate their time in order to be eligible.  Neighborhoods are then informed as to what goes into the process of rebuilding a home. Possible recipients go through background  and financial checks.

Currently, Habitat for Humanity is working on two projects called Critical Repairs and Brush of Kindness.  These include repairs to leaky roofs and gutters, painting, fixing water damage, and mold removal to houses of senior citizens  and veterans. For more information, you can contact Michael at michael@ solartech.com. The SyossetWoodbury Rotary Club meets on Tuesday afternoons at Lisbon Cafe, Jericho Turnpike, Jericho.

Rotary President Bob Mittleman, Michael Halperin

This Week at the Jericho Public Library

Art on display in January

Student Art Exhibition Farmingdale State College will be on display through January 29th in the Gallery/Meeting Room.

Sunday, January 26 at 2:00 p.m.

The Something Special Big Band presents Mixed Bag of Swing

The Something Special Big Band is considered one of the finest swing/ jazz bands in the metropolitan area. Former Basie vocalist, Barbara Fairfax, joins the five saxes, four trombones, four trumpets and full rhythm section directed by Phil Costa. You will enjoy such songs as April in Paris, Birdland, Fly Me to the Moon and many more. Tickets required. Non-ticket holders will be seated as space allows.

Monday, January 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Movie: “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice”

With one of the most memorably stunning voices that has ever hit the airwaves, Linda Ronstadt burst onto the 1960s folk rock music scene in her early twenties. Starring Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, Dolly Parton.

Rated PG-13. 1 hour, 35 minutes.

Tuesday, January 28 at 2:00 p.m.

Preventing Fraud

Without the Use of Technology with Sandie Baron

Your money, possessions and identity are under assault by scammers and they’re getting better at what they do everyday. Many people are unaware of scammers’ tactics and are unprepared to fend off their attacks. People often blame the internet and all the technology for identity theft, but there are other avenues for them to get to you. Learn how to recognize scammers as they intrude on your life and deal effectively to counter them.

Wednesday, January 29 at 2:00 p.m

Wednesday Matinee: Miracles of the Mind with Richard McEntee

Miracles of the Mind! Is a wonderful mind reading and illusion show. There will be comedy, special effects, a spellbinding story and audience participation. Mentalist Robert McEntee will amaze and amuse you when he reads your mind at this unique presentation!

Ticket required, Non-ticket holders will be seated as space allows.

Programs will take place at the Jericho Public Library: 1 Merry Lane, Jericho.

For more information, go to www.jericholibrary.org

Men’s Summer Softball Night League

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that registration is currently ongoing for the Town’s Men’s Summer Softball Night League, with games scheduled to begin in May 2020. Games will be held at four parks throughout the Town, and residents and non-residents alike are welcome to sign up for the softball league.

“The Town’s Men’s Summer Softball Night League is a fun and competitive softball league that promotes teamwork, friendship, physical fitness and provides a great opportunity for both residents and non-residents to enjoy their love of the game, and take advantage of our wonderful Town parks and facilities,” said Councilman Imbroto. “So get your team together, and make sure to register early, as our summer softball league is a popular program that is sure to fill up fast!”

Games will begin in May 2020 and will be held at 4 different locations:

Winter Toddler Arts and Crafts program

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that a Toddler Arts & Crafts Program will be offered during the months of February and March. This 6-week program offers classes at the Town’s Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center Community Room and Hicksville Athletic Center, and is open to children ages 2 through 4. Registration is now, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Town’s Parks Department Recreation Office in Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Rd, in Massapequa.

“The Town’s Toddler Arts & Crafts program is a wonderful way to help support your toddler’s development through nurturing their artistic expression,” said Town Councilwoman Michele Johnson. “Classes fill up quickly on a first-come, first-serve basis, so register today!”

The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is 6 weeks in duration, beginning February 11, and residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take

place on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. (two year olds only); Tuesdays at 11 a.m. (three and four year olds); Wednesdays at 10 a.m. (two year olds only); Wednesdays at 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. (three and four year olds); Thursdays at 10 a.m. (two year olds only); and Thursday at 11 a.m. (three and four year olds).

Each class is approximately 30 minutes to an hour long. The cost of the program is $25 per child who is a Town resident, and $30 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. Space is limited and upon registration, the child’s birth certificate and a tax or utility bill will be required to validate age and proof of residency. A guardian must be present during the class. A smock and supplies will be provided with enrollment.

The Toddler’s Arts & Crafts Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For further information, please call (516) 797-4125, and hit prompt ‘4’.

Get results!

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

Theodore Roosevelt Park, located on West Avenue in Oyster Bay

John J. Burns Park, located at 4990 Merrick Road in Massapequa

Ellsworth Allen Park, located at 45 Motor Avenue in Farmingdale Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park, located at 175 Washington Avenue in Plainview

Registration is currently ongoing but will close on Friday, April 3, 2020. The Men’s Summer Softball Night League features 20 regular season games (two games per night once a week), with a fee for registration of $700 per team. Only a check or money order will be accepted, made payable to “Town of Oyster Bay.”

Teams interested in more information or looking to receive a registration packet should contact the Town of Oyster Bay’s Parks Department, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-4125, x. 4

Syosset residents named Students of the Month

Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School is proud to announce that Syosset residents Abdelkareem Abusaab (10th grade), and Felicia Wen (11th grade),

were named Students of the Month. They exemplify kindness and are a role model for their peers. Congratulations Abdelkareem and Felicia!

This Week at the Syosset P ublic Library

Sunday, January 26 at 1:00 p.m.

From Harlem to Shanghai and Back

The Blue Pipa Trio features a unique combination of music composed by jazz legendary trumpeter Buck Clayton and Chinese legendary composer Li Jinhui. Clayton went to Shanghai and worked closely with Li, who was dubbed the Father of Chinese popular music. Their joint efforts bridged the gap between American jazz and traditional Chinese music and helped usher in a new era of Chinese Jazz. Tickets available January 4 for SSD residents; all others one week later if available.

Monday, January 27 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Teen Volunteer Club: Creating a Greeting "Card Catalogue"

Make a card, take a card! Help make cards for a variety of holidays and special occasions. This ongoing project will supply teens with greeting cards to use as needed! Registration for SSD residents begins Monday, December 23. Open to teens in grades 6-12 only. Free.

Friday, January 31 at 11:00 a.m.

Super Bowl Soups

Presenter: Chef Robert Scott

Warm up this Super Bowl with Simply Creative Chef Rob Scott’s delicious soups. A Tuscan vegetable soup with fresh vegetables and herbs and his famous tomato basil and rice soup.

Fee: $5. Registration for SSD residents begins January 3; all others one week later if still available.

Friday, January 31 at 2:00 p.m.

Steve McQueen

Presenter, Mark Courtade, executive director, Huntington Arts Council

Steve McQueen rose from a troubled youth spent in reform schools to become the world's most popular actor. In 1974 he became the highest paid movie star in the world. McQueen was known to be combative with directors and producers, and chauvanistic with women. He still remains very popular and his mystique keeps him a perennial favorite of film buffs.

Free. No registration required.

Programs will take place at the Syosset Public Library.   225 South Oyster Bay Rd. Syosset. For more information, go to www. syossetlibrary.org

Abdelkareem Abusaab

Felicia Wen

Chamber of Commerce continues 20-year tradition with Annual Installation Dinner

Pastor Rebecca Sheridan, host of the Chamber's January 16 meeting with Syosset Woodbury Chamber Executive Board members (secretary) William J. Chabina, Chamber President Maureen Nickel and Chamber Vice President Danielle Delgrosso.

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Registration is currently open for the 2020 Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce Installation Dinner, set for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, January 27 at Lisbon Café in Jericho, 399 Jericho Turnpike.

Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and several entrées will be served at a cost of $30 per person, with the balance to be subsidized by the Syosset Woodbury Chamber. The event is open to all cur-

rent Chamber members, prospective Chamber members and their guests.

The deadline to signup is Sunday, January 26.

The 2020 Chamber Installation Dinner continues traditions of over two decades since the current iteration of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber was founded in 1998. At the time, local realtor Frank S. Urso (of Homes by Mara Realty) and the late Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs created the first

Syosset Chamber of Commerce.

New Chamber President Maureen Nickel, a longtime Woodbury resident and owner of BrightStar Home Health Care, says she plans for this tradition to continue well into the Chamber’s 21st year and beyond. History plays a leading role in the Installation Dinner event to start every Chamber year, prior to dates on the calendar highlighting area businesses and locations with grand openings, ribbon cutting ceremonies, visits by elected representatives and various celebrations.

“From its inception the Chamber has been instrumental in advocating on behalf of the business community ...In early 1854, the Long Island Rail Road broke ground in Syosset and before long Syosset became a transportation hub for the North Shore of Long Island. For the first time farmers and merchants all over the region were able to transport their products to Brooklyn and New York City and as far east as Greenport. There is no doubt that these merchants formed their own business alliances, sharing ideas that contributed to Syosset’s long-standing prosperity. In keeping with this tradition, Chamber members, their guests, along with prospective members, are invited to attend the installation of the Chamber’s 2020 officers and board members on Monday, January 27th, 5:30pm at the annual Installation Dinner to be held at the Lisbon Café,” says Nickel.

She added that the entire Syosset Woodbury Chamber thanks Lisbon

Let your voice be heard!

Café owner, Jack Pinto, a longstanding member of the Chamber, “not only for his fine cuisine, but for his generosity and welcoming presence to the Chamber.”

Along with Nickel, Chamber executive officers in 2020 include: Danielle K. Delgrosso of New York Community Bank as Chamber vice president; former Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Christopher Coschignano, Esq. as Chamber secretary and William J. Chabina, Jr., as treasurer.

The 2020 Chamber Board of Directors include the Chamber’s Membership Committee, Networking and Street Fair Committee Chair Alan I. Goldberg, president of Water Solutions of Long Island; longtime Syosset resident Russell Green of RPG Wealth Management; social worker Mary Beth Heineke; Amanda Johnson of Balloons by Amanda; former Chamber President Chanbir Kaur of BNB Bank in Woodbury; Litmor Publishing Co.’s Matt Merlis; Mike Palazzolo of Island Signs & Graphics, Douglas Elliman Real Estate’s Tricia Shannon; Signature Premier Properties (Realty) Debra Parisi; Steve Ross, broker and principal of Ross Realty Group, LLC (commercial brokerage), Chamber co-founder Frank S. Urso of Homes by Mara and Bruce Weller of Eagle Eye Professional Home Inspection.

For more information and to make a payment, go to www.syossetchamber.com and click on the “Installation Dinner” tab. The Chamber looks forward to welcoming attendees on January 27.

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!

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SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY! For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: THEBRISTAL.COM

Faith Lutheran Church hosts Chamber of Commerce meeting

is at the helm!” she said.

From page 1

Sheridan moved with her family to Long Island in August 2019 from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, as her husband entered his doctoral program of study at Adelphi University in Garden City. In practice back in Nebraska, Pastor Sheridan was serv -

two hours’ west (driving time) from Omaha. Her husband Rich Sheridan is also a pastor and originally from Parsippany, New Jersey. Last year he gained admission to a PhD program in clinical psychology at Adelphi.

Less than 10 months ago, prior to deciding on the move to the East Coast, the husband and wife duo served as co-pastors in Omaha near

two daughters, four-year-old Erin and younger sister Grace. Rich Sheridan remains ordained as the pastor at their Omaha parish but he is on leave to pursue the doctoral degree.

Pastor Rebecaa Sheridan had a job interview for the position at Syosset’s Faith Lutheran Church over Skype last summer. She soon recognized a great opportunity to make a difference here. Pastor Sheridan and her family are the first residents of the Church’s parsonage in the last 20 years, and she calls the Syosset/ Woodbury community a great location to live in and raise her children. The family is also content being less than two hours from her husband’s relatives in New Jersey.

Nursery School Connections

Pastor Sheridan introduced the Chamber of Commerce to Faith Lutheran Church Council President Linda Moore, Church Administrator & Secretary and Council member Linda Boccafola, and lead teacher and co-director of Faith Nursery School Darlene Happel, a 25-year resident of Syosset.

“This is my 20th year at the Nursery School and my children attended before that, and I never left as I changed roles from assistant to teacher and now as co-director. In these 20 years the school has changed with the times -- from the half-day nursery and Pre-K our children attended the fullday program we now offer. But we still offer a half-day also for those parents in Syosset/Woodbury not ready to let kids attend full-day. If a full-day is more suitable we now run a Pre-K from 9 am to 3 pm, licensed with the

Office of Children and Family Services but we hope for anyone who’s attended, the school feels like a family. We also offer before and after-care and we’re really proud of the work done within our school,” Happel said.

Nickel, a Woodbury resident and owner of BrightStar Home Health Care, spoke from experience about the “wonderful program” at Faith Nursery. She reflected on how, many years ago, three of her four sons attended nursery school at Faith. Nickel explained how the nursery setting provided them with a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. For meeting attendees, it was apparent that the goal of this long-standing Syosset institution still remains.

Sheridan’s installation ceremony as pastor of Faith Lutheran Church took place on September 29, 2019. One of her first decisions as the new pastor was for the Church to join the Chamber of Commerce. In an interview with the Advance and News-Journal last November, Pastor Sheridan explained her transition to the area along with envisioning a more proactive role for the Church with the greater community of Syosset/Woodbury.

“I am so looking forward to being the community’s pastor as I have already connected so much with colleagues in the Interfaith Clergy Council and our Syosset Woodbury Chamber. Our priority is being more of a community center. Periodically we have music concerts open to our community, with our music program led

page 18

However, many companies, especially small businesses, can’t afford this type of talent. For example, formulating the right marketing strategy. Also,what’s the best type of advertising for a small business (local newspapers, direct mail, T.V., social media, etc.)

“Marketing” is the key to growing a business. However, many companies, especially small businesses can’t afford this type of talent. I c A n h E lp!

At the January 16 meeting at Faith Lutheran

We work with small and large budgets.

My name is carl and I can

My fee runs between $3,000 to $4,500 My name is Carl and I can be reached at (516) 558-7082

ber of Commerce Board member, Russell Green (RPG Wealth Management) with fellow Board member Mike Palazzolo, owner of Island Signs & Graphics on Robbins Lane; new Chamber member Catalina Chew of Accounting Brew, and (right) Chamber board member, Networking & Membership Committee Chairman Alan Goldberg of CardWorks Merchant Services and Water Solutions of Long Island.

Faith Lutheran Church Pastor Rebecca Sheridan, host of the January Chamber meeting; 2020 Chamber Vice President Danielle Delgrosso; Syosset resident and Boy Scout Troop 170 mom Danielle Riggio; social worker MaryBeth Heineke and new Chamber member Wendy Weiss of TechTime.

Church, Syosset Woodbury Cham-

COME EXPERIENCE PORTLEDGE SCHOOL

a Day of Play

Pre-Nursery through 5 th Grade

The Reggio Way Saturday, January 25, 2020

Portledge Lower School

11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.

Join us for a free winter Day of Play on Saturday, January 25th from 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M., located in the Portledge Lower School. Children entering Pre-Nursery through fifth grade and their families will be able to engage in a variety of activities inspired by the Reggio Emilia and Portledge Lower School Program including sensory and art activities for young children and STEAM activities for elementary ages. The playground will be open, weather permitting.

Families may also learn more about the Portledge Lower School, meet select teachers, and tour the classrooms.

355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560 516.750.3100 EXPLORE CREATE EXCEL

*Alternate snow date is Saturday, February 1, 2020

To RSVP visit www.portledge.org/dayofplay or contact Leigh DeMaria at ldemaria@portledge.org or 516.750.3224

Biking through the Badlands is Voyage of Discovery Millions of Years in the Making

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

My first look at Badlands National Park is not anything I expected or visualized. The Pinnacles entrance to the national park, where the Wilderness Voyageurs guides have taken us for our first ride of the sixday “Badlands and Black Hills” bike tour of South Dakota, is aptly named for the spires that form this otherworldly landscape.

Badlands National Park is 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires and the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The Badlands Wilderness Area covers 64,000 acres, where they are reintroducing the black-footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America. Just beyond is The Stronghold Unit, co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe where there are sites of the 1890s Ghost Dances. But as I soon learn, Badlands National Park contains the world’s richest Oligocene epoch fossil beds, dating 23 to 35 million years old, a period between dinosaurs and hominids.

The name “Badlands” was intentional, for the earliest inhabitants

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Badlands National Park is 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires and the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Biking through the Badlands is Voyage of Discovery Millions of Years in the Making

and settlers found the extremes of climate and landscape extremely harsh. The American Lakota called this place “mako sica,” or “land bad” and early French trappers called it “les mauvaises terres a traverser,” both meaning “badlands.” Those very same French trappers would be the first of many Europeans who would, in time, supplant the indigenous people, as they were soon followed by soldiers, miners looking to strike it rich with gold, cattlemen, farmers, and homesteaders recruited from as far away as Europe.

We get our bikes which our guides – James Oerding and John Buehlhornmake sure are properly fitted, and outfit us with helmet, water bottle, Garmin. They orient us to the day’s ride – essentially biking through the national park on the road (“Don’t stop riding as you go over the cattle guards”; when the van comes up alongside, tap your helmet if you need help). We will meet up at the 8.2 mile mark where there is a nature walk and the van will be set up for lunch.

And then we are off at our own pace down an exquisite road (the cars are

not a problem). That is a mercy because the vistas are so breathtaking, I keep stopping for photos. And then there are unexpected sightings – like bighorn sheep.

At the 8.2 mile mark, we gather at the van where James has set out a gourmet lunch.

There is a boardwalk nature trail (I note the sign that warns against rattlesnakes and wonder about the kids who are climbing the mounds with abandon). I realize I am in time for a talk with Ranger Mark Fadrowski, who has with him original fossils and casts of fossils collected from the Badlands for us to look at and touch. We can see more – and even scientists working at the Fossil Prep Lab – at the Visitor Center further along our route.

“There are no dinosaurs here,” Ranger Fadrowski explains. “This area was underwater when dinosaurs lived.” But these fossils – gathered from 75 million years ago and from through 34 to 37 million years ago (there is a 30-million year gap in the fossil record), fill in an important fossil record between dinosaurs and hominids (that is, early man). Teeth, we learn, provide important information about the animal – what it ate, how it lived - and the environment of the time.

The Pierre Shale, the oldest layer when this area was under a shallow sea, is yielding fossils from 67-75 million years ago. He shows us a fossil of a Mosasaur, giant marine lizards, an ancestor of the Komodo dragon, and one of the biggest sea animals.

“We don’t have fossils from the

30-million year gap – either the sediment was not deposited or it eroded.” Indeed, we learn that these tall spires of rock with their gorgeous striations, are eroding at the rate of one inch each year, and will be completely gone in another 100,000 to 500,000 years. But the erosion also exposes the fossils.

The environment changed from a sea to a swamp during the Chadron Formation, 34-37 million years ago. “That was caused when the Rocky Mountains formed, with a shift in Teutonic plates. That pushed up and angled the surface so water drained into the Gulf of Mexico.” It was formed by sediments carried by streams and rivers flowing from the Black Hills, deposited in a hot and humid forest flood plain.

Alligators lived during this time. The alligator fossils found here show that the animal hasn’t changed in 30 million years. The alligators migrated when the environment changed, so survived.

During the Brule Formation, 30-34 million years ago, this area was open woodlands, drier and cooler than during the Chadron Formation; in some areas, water was hard to find. Animals that lived here then include the Nimravid, called “a false cat” because it seems to resemble a cat but is not related. The specimen he shows was found by a 7-year old girl just 15 feet from the visitor center and is the most complete skull found to date (imagine that!); there are two holes in the skull that show it was killed by another Nimravid. Also a three-toed horse (now extinct); and a dog.

In fact, it turns out it is not at all

unusual for visitors to the park to come upon important fossils (there is a whole wall of photos of people and their finds just from this year). In fact, one visitor, Jim Carney, a photographer from Iowa, found two bones sticking up and reported the location. “They thought it would be a single afternoon. It turned out to be a tennis-court sized field, now known as the Pig Dig; the dig lasted 15 summers and yielded 19,000 specimens, including the “Big Pig.”

It was found at the beginning of the Brule Formation, when the area was drying out. “We believe it was watering hole drying up. Animals caught in the mud were prey for other animals.”

This is a place of Archaeotherium, Oredonts, Mesohippus, Subhyracodon, Hoplophoneus, Metamynodon, Cricid and Paleolagus.

The Sharps Formation, 28-30 million years ago, is where they have found Oreodont fossils. “The name means ‘mountain teeth’ because of the shape of its teeth, not the environment.” Fossils are identified mostly because of teeth which are most common to survive and reveal clues about behavior and what the animal ate, which speaks to the environment.

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

He shows us the fossil of an Oviodon. “It is weird, there isn’t anything alive like it. The closest relative is camel – like the weird cousin that no one knows how related. It is the most commonly found fossil – which means it was probably a herd animal.” And a Merycoidodon (“ruminating teeth”), which he describes as “a sheep camel pig deer”.

“The Badlands are eroding, so will reveal more fossils. Fossils are harder than rock, so won’t erode as fast.” Interestingly, only 1% of all life is fossilized. “We have to assume there are missing specimens.”

The Badlands “is particularly lush for fossils – because of the types of sediment that preserves them well.– 600,000 specimens have been collected from the Badlands since paleontologists first started coming here in the 1840s. Just about every major institution in the world has specimens that were originally found here, including the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

They provide clues to the “Golden Age of mammals – half-way between when dinosaurs ended and today – horses, camels, deer.”

Badlands National Park is 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires and the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

I had no idea.

I’m so grateful that John (elected the sweeper for today’s ride) has not rushed me away and, in fact, waited patiently

WRITER’S CORNER

without me even realizing he was there. I continue on, stopping often to take photos of the extraordinary landscape

See page D6

Black History Month: recognizing Denzel Washington

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

February is Black History Month and in honor of that I am highlighting Denzel Washington who most people know as an actor. He is also a director and a producer.

Denzel Washington has received two Golden Globe awards, one Tony Award, and two Academy Awards but first here is some information about where and how he grew up.

Denzel Washington was born in Mount Vernon, N.Y., on December 28, 1954. He is the middle of three children. His mother, Lennis “Lynne,” was a beauty parlor owner who was born in Georgia and partly raised in Harlem. His father, Denzel Hayes Washington Sr., was a native of Buckingham County, Va. He was an ordained Pentecostal minister and an employee of the N.Y.C. Water Department.

Denzel Washington attended Pennington-Grimes Elementary School in Mount Vernon until 1968. When he was 14, his parents divorced, and his mother sent him to a private preparatory school, Oakland Military Academy in New Windsor, N.Y.

He later said, “That decision changed my life, because I wouldn’t have survived in the direction I was going. The guys I was hanging out with at the time, my running buddies, have now done maybe 40 years combined in the penitentiary. They were nice guys, but the streets got them.”

After Oakland, he attended Mainland High School, a public high school in Daytona Beach, Florida, from 1970 to 1971. He was interested in attending Texas Tech University: “I grew up in the Boys Club in Mount Vernon, and we were the Red Raiders. So when I was in high school, I wanted to go to Texas Tech University in Lubbock just because they were called the Red Raiders and their uniforms looked like ours.”

In 1977 Washington earned a bachelor’s degree in Drama and Journalism from Fordham University. At Fordham he played collegiate basketball as a guard under Coach P.J. Carlesimo. He wasn’t sure about what to major in so he decided to take a semester off from college.

Washington worked as creative arts director at an overnight summer camp called Camp Sloane YMCA in Lakeville, Ct. He participated in a staff talent show for the campers and a colleague was so impressed by Denzel Washington that he suggested he try acting.

Returning to Fordham that fall feeling surer about what he wanted to do, Denzel Washington enrolled at the Lincoln Center campus to study acting, where he was given the title roles in Eugene O’Neill’s “The Emperor Jones” and Shakespeare’s “Othello.”

He attended graduate school at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, Calif., where he stayed for one year before returning to New York

to begin a professional acting career. Shortly after graduating from Fordham, Washington made his screen acting debut in the 1977 made-for-TV film “Wilma” and his first Hollywood appearance in the 1981 film “Carbon Copy.” He shared a 1982 Distinguished Ensemble Performance Obie Award for playing Private First Class Melvin Peterson in the Off-Broadway Negro Ensemble Company production “A Soldier’s Play” which premiered November 20, 1981.

Washington got a major break in his career when he starred as Dr. Phillip Chandler in the hospital drama “St. Elsewhere” which ran on TV on NBC from 1982 to 1988. He was one of only a few African-American actors to appear on the series for its entire six-year run.

He also appeared in several TV, film and stage roles, such as the movies “A Soldier’s Story” in 1984, “Hard Lessons” in 1986 and “Power” also in 1986. In 1987, he starred as South African activist Steven Biko in Richard Attenborough’s “Cry Freedom.” For his part Washington received a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

In 1989, Denzel Washington won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of a defiant, ex-slave soldier in the film “Glory.” It was in that same year that he appeared in the film “The Mighty Quinn” plus in “For Queen and Country” where he played the part of Reuben James,

a British soldier who, despite a distinguished military career, returns to a civilian life where racism and inner city life lead to vigilantism.

During the early and mid-1990s, Washington starred in several successful thrillers, including “The Pelican Brief” with Julia Roberts in 1993 and “Crimson Tide” with Gene Hackman in 1995.

In 1996, he played a U.S. Army officer who, upset about a deadly mistake he made, investigates a female chopper commander’s worthiness for the Medal of Honor in “Courage Under Fire” with Meg Ryan. It was also in 1996 that he appeared with Whitney Houston in “The Preacher’s Wife” which was a romantic comedy.

In 1998, Washington starred in Spike Lee’s film “He Got Game.” In 2000, Washington appeared in “Remember the Titans” which was a very popular Disney hit. At the 57th Golden Globe Awards, Washington won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor - Motion Picture Drama for his work in “The Hurricane.” He was the first AfricanAmerican actor to win the award since Sidney Poitier in 1963.

Denzel Washington won an Academy Award for Best Actor for the 2001 cop thriller “Training Day” where he played Detective Alonzo Harris, a cor-

See page D5

Readers Question AARP Article About Spousal Benefits

BY TOM MARGENAU

I’ve gotten quite a few emails from readers who have questions about an article on Social Security benefits for spouses that recently ran in an issue of the AARP Bulletin. Some of you thought the answers they gave were incorrect. But they were not. Let’s review some of them in today’s column.

And one caveat before I go on: In order to avoid a lot of awkward “he/she” or “him/her” pronouns, I am going to assume the person applying for spousal benefits is a woman. Even though Social Security rules are gender neutral, statistics show that 95% of all spousal benefits are paid to women. Having said that, if you happen to be part of a married couple in which the wife earned more money than the husband, just reverse gender references as you read this column.

Anyway, one of the AARP questions asked: “Will I get a smaller spousal benefit because my husband retired early?” AARP answered: “No.” But this comment from one reader echoed the thoughts of several others. He said, “I thought if I took reduced retirement benefits, my wife’s spousal benefit also would be reduced.”

But the fact is a wife’s spousal rate is always based on her husband’s full retirement age benefit, even if he took a reduced early retirement rate. And the percentage she gets depends only on her age when she files.

However, the rules are different for widows, and maybe AARP should have pointed that out. If a guy takes reduced retirement benefits, that reduction will carry over to his widow.

Let’s follow this example. Jack’s full retirement age rate is $2,000. But he files at age 62 and starts getting a reduced rate of 75%, or $1,500. His wife, Jill, files for spousal benefits a couple of years later when she turns 62. At 62, the spousal rate is about 35%. And she is going to get around 35% of Jack’s $2,000 full retirement age rate. So she is going to get about $700.

Then, 20 years later, at age 82, Jack dies. (To keep my math and the example simple, I’m not going to adjust the rates for inflation or cost of living increases.)

As I said, a widow’s rate IS affected by whether or not her husband took reduced retirement benefits. So now Jill’s widows rate is based on Jack’s reduced retirement benefit of $1,500. Because she is over age 66, her widows rate is 100%. But again, it is not 100% of Jack’s full retirement age benefit. It is 100% of his reduced retirement rate of $1,500. So, normally, I would tell you that Jill would get 100% of Jack’s $1,500 benefit. But there is one more little twist. There is a rule that says a widow over age 66 can’t get less than 82% of her husband’s

full retirement age rate. So instead of getting $1,500, she is going to get $1,640.

Another of the AARP questions asked this: “I’m divorced. Can I get spousal benefits even though my ex has not retired?” And they answered: “Yes. If you are single and at least age 62, you can get benefits as long as your ex also is 62, but he does not have to be getting benefits.”

Many readers wrote to tell me that they were sure that a wife could not get spousal benefits on her husband’s record until he had actually filed for Social Security himself.

And that is true if the couple is currently married. But that rule does NOT apply to divorced couples. And I’m sure many of you may wonder why that is. Let me explain.

To grasp the thinking behind these laws, you have to understand that benefits to spouses have always been classified as “dependent” benefits. In other words, a wife must be considered financially dependent on her husband in order to qualify for spousal benefits on his record. Once you get that in your head -- that dependency is the key to eligibility for spousal benefits -- you will understand why the rules are different for divorced women.

If a couple is currently married, the law assumes that a husband, whose wife is potentially due spousal benefits on his record, is financially supporting that wife. In other words, if he is still working and not yet getting Social Security benefits, the law assumes she doesn’t need Social Security benefits on his account until he is also getting such benefits. But the law can’t make that assumption for divorced couples. So the rules allow a divorced woman to access her ex’s Social Security account even if he hasn’t yet filed for benefits himself.

That covers readers’ questions about the recent AARP article. I still have room to answer another question from a reader about spousal benefits -- more specifically, survivor benefits for spouses.

Q: I know you’ve covered this topic before, but I’m still confused about what each of us might get if the other one dies. Here are the particulars. We are both in our 80s. We both started our Social Security at 65. I get $2,150. My wife gets $1,875. If I die first, what will my wife get? And if she dies first, what will I get?

A: If you die first, your wife will keep getting her own $1,875, and she will get an extra $275 in widows benefits to take her up to your $2,150 level. If your wife dies first, you won’t get anything extra. You’ll just keep getting your $2,150 retirement check.

The reason why you don’t get any widower’s benefits goes back to that “dependency” business I mentioned earlier. To collect spousal or widow(er)

s benefits, the law says you must prove that you were financially dependent on your wife. SSA planners knew that it would be a logistical nightmare to make members of a married couple bring in evidence to prove dependency (pay stubs, bank statements, etc.) So they decided to just make this assumption: The spouse with the lower Social Security benefit is automatically considered to be financially dependent on the spouse

with the higher benefit. Thus, your wife is deemed to be financially dependent on you, so she gets widows benefits. Conversely, you cannot be deemed to be financially dependent on her, so you can’t get widowers benefits.

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

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Black History Month: recognizing Denzel Washington

Continued from page D3

rupt Los Angeles cop. He was the second African-American actor to win the category after Sidney Poitier, who was presented with an Honorary Academy Award the same night.

In 2002, Washington made his debut as a film director with the biographical film “Antwone Fisher.” Antwone Fisher is a volatile young sailor in the Navy who gets into trouble for his constant fighting. His second effort as a director was “The Great Debaters” in 2007. This is the true story about professor Melvin B. Tolson who formed a debate team at a small African-American college in the 1930s. The team went on to beat Harvard in the national debate championships.

In 2016, Washington directed his third film, “Fences.” He starred in it along with Viola Davis. Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, Washington plays a former Negro league baseball player working as a garbage collector who struggles to provide for his family and come to terms with the events of his life. The film was released on December 16, 2016, by Paramount Pictures. For his performance, Washington was nominated in the Best Actor category for a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award for Best Picture.

During the 2000s Denzel Washington appeared in a number of thrillers including Tony Scott’s 2009 film “The Taking of Pelham 123” which was a remake of the 1974 thriller of the same name. He played New York City subway security chief Walter Garber opposite John Travolta’s villain. He has starred in Broadway shows as well as on the Big Screen.

In 1983, Denzel Washington married Pauletta Pearson. They met on the set of his first screen work, the TV film “Wilma.” The couple has four children - John David, who is also an actor and a former football player with the United Football League’s Sacramento Mountain Lions, Katia who graduated from Yale University with a B.A. in 2010 and twins Olivia and Malcolm. Malcolm graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in film studies, and Olivia played a role in Lee Daniels’ film “The Butler.”

Denzel Washington is a devout Christian and has considered becoming a preacher. He stated in 1999, “A part of me still says, ‘Maybe, Denzel, you’re supposed to preach. Maybe you’re still compromising.’ I’ve had an opportunity to play great men and, through their words, to preach. I take what talent I’ve been given seriously, and I want to use it for good.”

Denzel Washington has served as the national spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America since 1993 and has appeared in public service announcements and awareness campaigns for the

organization. Since 1995 he has served as a board member for Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Because of his philanthropic work with the Boys & Girls Club, PS 17X, a Bronx elementary school, officially named their school after Denzel Washington.

In 1991, Washington was awarded an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Fordham University, for having “impressively succeeded in exploring the edge of his multifaceted talent.”

He received an honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Morehouse College in 2007 and in 2011 he received an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

In 2016, Washington received the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award at the 73rd Golden Globe Awards. He lives in Los Angeles, Calif., with Pauletta and their four children.

Denzel Washington has been quoted in various newspapers and magazines about his childhood and about his multi-faceted career. He has said:

“I wasn’t allowed to go to movies when I was kid; my father was a minister. ‘101 Dalmatians’ and ‘King of Kings’ (a 1961 movie that was a reenactment of the life of Jesus Christ). That was the extent of it.”

Denzel Washington fondly remembers his acting debut at a young age at the Boys & Girls Club in Mount Vernon, N.Y. He noted, “My first ever performance was in a talent show there, we were probably nine years old. We played the Beatles. We wore Beatles wigs and had cheap guitars. So that was my acting debut. I was one of the leaders … I was John... the left-handed guitar player.”

About the Boys & Girls Club he added, “When I was in kindergarten I remember them building this club and hearing about what was going on in there. At first, it was just a place to go and have some fun. You know, I didn’t realize I was being taught a lesson for my life. I just thought I was going to play some basketball, but I’ve been a member in heart and mind for 58 years now … We were just having fun. I didn’t think about the future at all. I thought I was going to be an NFL player, but it didn’t work out that way.”

“It’s simple: You get a part. You play a part. You play it well. You do your work and you go home. And what is wonderful about movies is that once they’re done, they belong to the people. Once you make it, it’s what they see.”

“I’ve found that nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. Nothing.”

When Denzel Washington gave the commencement speech at Dillard University in New Orleans, La., in 2015, he told the graduates: “Don’t inspire to

make a living, inspire to make a difference.”

“Acting is just a way of making a living, the family is life.”

My favorite Denzel Washington movie is “The Pelican Brief.” Made in 1993, Denzel Washington plays Gray Grantham, a “Washington Herald” investigative journalist. His co-star is Julia Roberts whose character, Darby Shaw, is a young Tulane University law student whose legal brief about the assassination of two Supreme Court justices causes her to be targeted by killers. Shaw realizes just how accurate her accusations have been when her lover and mentor is murdered. On the run in New Orleans, she is aided by Gray Grantham who helps her unravel a conspiracy involving senior government figures.

Of all the movies Denzel Washington made I like it the best because that’s when I first noticed him open up as an actor. Sure he was great in his other

movies but this is when I noticed how believable he was as an actor plus how vulnerable he could be. It’s a keeper of a movie and Denzel Washington is a great actor!

Crossword Answers

Biking through the Badlands is Voyage of Discovery Millions of Years in the Making

with its shapes and textures and striations. I barely miss a dead rattlesnake on the road (I think it was dead) and am too rattled to stop and take a photo.

I get to the Visitor Center which has superb displays and an outstanding film (must see). Again, no one is rushing me away, so I stay for the film, “The Land of Stone & Light”.

Native Americans have been in this area for 12,000 years; the Lakota came from the east around 1701 following buffalo, their culture was so dependent on buffalo. “They would pray for the buffalos’ well being” rather than their own.”

Treaties were signed that defined the borders, but they were broken. The white settlers demanded more and more of the Indian land, especially after gold was discovered in the Black Hills. (I later learn it was William Custer, the famous General of Custer’s Last Stand, who discovered the gold.)

The buffalo – so precious to the Lakota - were hunted nearly to extinction. The white men put up fences for their ranches and farms, preventing the buffalo from migrating.

tologists came here 150 years ago.” The layered landscape of the Badlands told the story of geologic change, of climate change, that is still continuing. The Badlands are eroding fast – at the rate of one inch per year, “so in 100,000 to 500,000 years, all will be gone. The earth is a dynamic and changing system.”

The ecology is complex. This is a mixed grass prairie – it may look dry, but the tangled roots store nutrients. Animals help sustain it –the bison churn up the soil, mixing the moisture and scattering seeds; prairie dogs are critical to the ecosystem, too - they also stir up the soil, and the burrows they dig are used by other animals like owl and ground squirrel. The black footed ferret lives in abandoned burrows and also eats prairie dogs.

The farmers’ attempt to eliminate prairie dogs resulted in the near-extinction of black-foot ferret. They have been reintroduced; also swift fox, bighorn sheep.

“What happens to the buffalo, happens to Lakota” – they were forced to cease their traditional life, settle down and farm or ranch. Resistance led to tragedy

(Battle of Wounded Knee). (There is a photo of the Wounded Knee Massacre at the Trading Post.)

By the turn of the 20th century, the federal government was inviting homesteaders to come out and settle the West - they would get 160 acres if they could last five years on the land. They advertised abroad, enticing immigrants to “the luscious plains in the Dakotas.”

Lumber and stone was rare in the Badlands, so the settlers built their shanties of sod, called “sodbusters.”

“Living was hard; small-scale farming couldn’t succeed. They endured blistering summers, cruel winters, extreme wind. Many left” especially in the Great Depression. I think how ironic.

“Before the Lakota, before the dreams of homesteaders ended, paleon-

“The mission of National Parks is to preserve and restore – but we can’t restore the biggest animals that once were here – the prairie wolf and grizzly bear.”

I’m about to leave when I stumble upon the Paleontology Lab, which is open to the public, where we can watch as two paleontologists painstakingly work to remove sediment from bone –their efforts magnified on a TV screen.

“I am working on a Merycoidodon, an oreodont, which is a group of hoofed mammals native to North America,” the sign says in response to what must be the zillionth time a visitor asks. “Although they have no living relatives in modern times, oreodonts are related to another native North American mammal: the camel. Oreodonts are sheepsized and may have resembled pigs, but with a longer body, short limbs and with teeth adapted for grinding tough vegetation. The skulls of Merycoidon have pits in front of the eyes, similar to those found in modern deer which contain scent glands used for marking territory. Oreodonts lived in herds and may at one point have been as plentiful in South Dakota as zebras are in the African Serengeti.”

But the paleontologists are happy to answer questions, too. One tells me she has part of an ear canal (very unusual) and ear bones. “It’s unusual to have the upper teeth. This is a sub-adult –I can see wisdom teeth and unerupted teeth.” She is working on a Leptomerycid – relative of mouse deer – an animal the size of house cat.

It has taken her 170 hours to extract teeth from rock.

“This is the second time anyone got an upper row of teeth for this species. It may change scientists’ understanding. We’re not sure if it is a separate species – it has a different type of tooth crown. But having a second fossil means we can compare.”

Just then, the senior paleontologist, Ed Welch comes in and tells me that because teeth are used to determine species, the work being done could prove or disprove whether this animal is a separate species.

Welch says it so far looks like a species that was named in 2010 based on the lower teeth. “Now we have upper teeth and part of the skull. The difference could be variation by ecology (for example, what it ate). It was found at same site so would have been contemporary. We looked at several hundred jaws. This one could be an ‘ecomorph’ - just different because of what it ate.”

The Badlands have some of the oldest dogs ever found, and the most diversity. In the display case is one of only eight specimens ever found – the other seven are at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City but they are not displayed; this is only specimen that can be viewed.“It is the oldest one of its kind,” 33-32 million years old -

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

and was found by a college student from Missouri.

He says the seven-year old girl who found the saber cat fossil that the Ranger showed, came back this year, now 16 years old.

“We ask visitors to leave the fossil where it is and report to us, give us photos, a GPS, so we can locate. Some of the fossils were found right on the trail, not even in remote areas.

Probably the most famous – a hero around the lab - is photographer Jim Carney of Iowa who found two bones that ended up being a big bone bed that so far has yielded 19,000 specimens.

Judging by wall of photos of visitors and their finds just in 2019 it would seem that people have great odds and probability of finding important fossil. Add fossil hunting to the hiking or biking adventure.

The fossils collected here since the 1840s are in every major institution. While fossils of dinosaurs and early man might get everyone excited, these fossils – the middle of the Age of Mammals –are important to fill out that story of ecological and evolutionary change.

“The Badlands is in the middle of the earth’s transition from Greenhouse to

Ice House – and the fossils found here show how animals responded to the ecological change: “adapt, migrate or go extinct.”

Welch made the decision to open the paleontology lab so people can see scientists at work. “We decided to do more than a fishbowl, to make it a great education tool.”

The Fossil Preparation Lab in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center is typically open from 9 am - 4:30 pm daily from the second week in June through the third week in September. The national park is open year-round.

(More information on Badlands National Park at www.nps.gov/badl/ index.htm , www.nps.gov/badl/planyourvisit/events.htm)

During our ride through the Badlands National Park, I spot the major animals that are resident here: bighorn sheep; American bison, pronghorn (also called antelope), mule deer and black-tail prairie dog. The one I miss is a coyote (yet to come).

We have 12 miles further to bike to our accommodation for the night, the Circle View Guest Ranch, which proves to be an amazing experience in itself.

Wilderness Voyageurs started out as a rafting adventures company 50 years ago,

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

but has developed into a wide-ranging outdoors company with an extensive catalog of biking, rafting, fishing and outdoor adventures throughout the US and even Cuba, many guided and self-guided bike itineraries built around rail trails like the Eric Canal in New York, Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania, and Katy Trail in Missouri.

There are still a few spots left on Wilderness Voyageurs’ Quintessential West Cuba Bike Tour departing on March 21.

Wilderness Voyageurs, 103 Garrett St., Ohiopyle, PA 15470, 800-272-4141, bike@Wilderness-Voyageurs.com , Wilderness-Voyageurs.com

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

9 Easy Ways to Slash the Grocery Bill

BY MARY HUNT

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to cruise up and down the grocery store aisle, filling your basket with everything that looks good? Sure, it’s kinda fun -- but oh, so expensive! Worse, you get home with absolutely nothing to fix for dinner. I hate when that happens!

But not to worry. Check out these 10 easy ways to keep food costs in check from my friends, fans and followers! Then join us at EverydayCheapskate. com, where you can join in the fun!

SHOP AT HOME FIRST

Before you head to the grocery store, take a quick tour of your pantry, freezer and fridge. It’s maddening to buy more of what you already have but simply forgot!

DON’T SHOW UP HUNGRY

If you walk into any food store absolutely starving to death, there is no end to the bad choices you will make! Everything will look good. But what if you’re on your way home from work and didn’t have time to eat lunch? Head for the bakery or produce section to get a cookie or banana. That should be enough to put your out-of-control impulses back in check.

TRY GROCERY

PICK UP

Most major grocery stores now offer pickup service -- sometimes for no fee at all. What a great option! You can

“shop” at home on stores’ websites, taking your time and getting the exact brand and size you need. You can use coupons, see exactly what’s on sale, save your cart and change your mind before you finally check out. Picking up groceries precludes all of those impulsive buys we make while wandering up and down aisles and standing in line to check out.

SHOP SOLO

It’s easy enough to get distracted and off track at the supermarket without adding children to the shopping trip. You’ll be more focused and make better choices if you shop solo and get in and out in the shortest time possible.

BUY

THE SALES

Grocery stores are notorious for their weekly sales, and some of the best sales are always in the meat department. Stop paying full price for meat, poultry or fish. Buy what’s on sale! Make it a rule and watch your food bill plummet.

LEARN THE SALES CYCLES

Let your inner detective have some fun by learning the supermarket’s sales cycles. Hint: Every food store works on a 12-week cycle. That means that once every three months, something in every category in the store is on sale. Start paying attention to when your favorite items go on sale and how much the price drops. Keep track in a price

book you carry with you. It won’t take long to get really good at predicting when things you buy regularly will be on sale.

GROW YOUR OWN

A sunny windowsill is all you need to grow your own herbs year round, no matter where you live. You can stop paying a fortune to buy fresh herbs like basil, chives, rosemary and thyme in the produce department.

BUY IN SEASON

Walk into any supermarket produce department and you can know exactly what’s in season. Look at the signs and prices. If the price is low, you can be sure it’s in season. It makes sense, right? Pay attention; load up on apples in the fall, stone fruit in the summer. And so on.

SHOP WITH CASH

You’ve created a food budget; now take only that amount of cash to the supermarket -- no checkbook, debit or credit cards; no Apple Pay or other stand-in for real money. Only cash. It’s not easy, but, boy, will you save money! You will study every price, calculating and recalculating what you have in your basket. The reward for your diligence will be slashing your grocery bill. You’ll skip impulse items. You’ll be more willing to try generic brands. You’ll get really good at not overbuying, too.

Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a lifestyle blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.”

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• Maintain a variety of records and files related to the transportation operations including driver hours, vehicle mileage and passenger information for reporting purposes.

• Drive school bus as required.

• Verify and distribute information to appropriate staff.

• Maintain proper contact with school personnel and the public utilizing telephone etiquette and by responding to all calls and service requests promptly and courteously.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS/EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or GED EXPERIENCE and one year of satisfactory bus driving and/or motor vehicle dispatching experience

• Experience in office procedures and equipment including computers, routing programs and two-way radios.

• Must satisfy all requirements of Article 19-A of the NY State Vehicle and Traffic Law for school bus driver. Must possess appropriate CDL license A or B with Passenger, School Bus and Air Brake endorsements. Garden City Union Free School District is an equal opportunity employer.

EMPLOYMENT

CAREER TRAINING

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

FINANCE

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SCAM

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About a refund That’s due you Hang Up or a call from the IRS or SS Hang Up G.C. Neighbor

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

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

TURN YOUR TREASURES INTO CASH! Come to Consign/Stay to Shop! 109 Eleventh Street, Garden City 516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-SilverMirrors-Lamps-ArtworkChinaCrystal-Collectibles

Tuesday-Friday 10-4 Saturday 12-4 (10% Sr. Discount Tues)

All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Email: store@atstewartexchange.org

Like us on Facebook & Instagram

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN

Looking to sell items from your home?

Consider doing an Online Auction!

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

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

Estate and Tag Sales

Online Auctions

Cleanout and Moving Services

Home Staging Services

Appraisals

Contact for more info: info@invitedsales.com or Call:

516-279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. www.invitedsales.com

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

ANTIQUES

Objects of art, sterling silver, old oriental rugs, estate jewelry, old judaica or entire estate. Call Mark 516-331-1582

LOOKING TO BUY!

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

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

TAG SALE

TAG SALE

Saturday, January 25, 9am-1pm 73 Second Street, Garden City (Between Cathedral & Cherry Valley Ave.)

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

PETS

PET SERVICES

A GARDEN CITY ANIMAL

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

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR to Wheels For Wishes, benefitting Make-a-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 631317-2014 Today!

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE

GARDEN CITY

Prime Seventh Street Location.

Small Office available. $750.00 per month includes everything. Owner: 516-510-9452

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE

SEBASTIAN FLORIDA (East Coast)

Beach Cove is an Age Restricted Community where friends are easily made. Sebastian is an “Old Florida” fishing village with a quaint atmosphere yet excellent medical facilities, shopping and restaurants. Direct flights from Newark to Vero Beach. New manufactured homes from $114,900. 772-5810080; www.beach-cove.com

SERVICES

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A.

D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122

www.dangelolawassociates.com

COMPUTERS

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

*Minor Electrical & Plumbing 25year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

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

MADE IN THE SHADE

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

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

MASONRY

All 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

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE

CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.drannmariedangelo.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock

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

JOHN MIGLIACCIO

Licensed & Insured

#80422100000 Call John anytime: 516-901-9398 (Cell) 516-483-3669 (Office)

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY

Your Next Party!

Catering and Experienced Professional Services for Assisting with Preparation, Serving and Clean Up Before, During and After Your Party Bartenders Available. Call Kate at 516-248-1545

TUTORING

PRIVATE TUTORING FOR GRADES K-6

Give your child a helping hand!

Licensed NYC/NYS Dept of Education teacher available to tutor students grades K-6. Contact Audrey Sullivan, M.S.Ed 347-628-8872 (voice/text) seguenow@aol.com

SPANISH TUTOR: CERTIFIED SPANISH TEACHER EXPERIENCED IN ALL LEVELS OF SPANISH including AP Spanish and College Level Courses. Experienced with all levels of Chaminade Curriculum and Exams. Excellent references provided upon request. Phone: 516-655-8194 OR Email: mmiller@emufsd.org

SERVICES

INSTRUCTION

MUSIC LESSONS

Guitar, Piano, Drums, Saxophone, Composition Songwriting Theory recording in Logic Pro Tools Abelton from conservatory graduate. In-home studio or at your home. Call or text Sean 516-244-6128 Great Rates!

CLEANING

C & A CLEANING SERVICES

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

Free Estimates Call:

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

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

SERVICES

DISH TV

$59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95

High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-943-0838

Last Hope Part of the Chewy.com Rescue Program

If you haven’t tried Chewy.com yet for your pet food and supply purchases, this is a great time to check them out. Last Hope is now part of their rescue program. For each new customer that makes a purchase, Last Hope will receive a $20 donation. Click on the ad below or go directly to the Last Hope page at https:// www.chewy.com/rp/5941

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

Healthy You, Healthy Life NUTRICIAN NEWS

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Here are some fun things you can do in 2020 to create a healthier lifestyle. Forget the resolutions; just focus on healthier habits -and not just in the kitchen.

-- Spend more time with your family and friends. When was the last time you had someone over or met at a restaurant? Don’t worry about the dust bunnies; your friends want to be with you.

-- Read more. Replace the television with a good book. You’ll find yourself more relaxed and learning something new.

-- Move more. You choose whether it’s an at-home workout or an at-the-gym workout. The important thing is to just move more.

-- Drink more water. Skip the soda, and opt for good old H2O. How much? Divide your weight in half, and drink that many ounces per day.

-- Take a vitamin, especially if you’re pregnant or immunocompromised. It’s good insurance for all of us to combat those not-sohealthy eating days.

-- Try a new hobby, venture or volunteer opportunity. Focusing on an activity that brings pleasure helps our entire outlook on life. Here are a few to consider: gardening, painting, helping at the local food bank or taking a trip somewhere new.

-- Get better sleep. A consistent

bedtime is important, as is putting away your phone or iPad. Try for eight hours of sleep a night. Good rest equals improved focus, more energy and better eating habits.

-- Limit calories. Share a meal with a friend if you eat out. Pack a healthy lunch -- with plenty of cutup fruits and veggies -- to take to work. Skip the sweets and sweet drinks.

-- If you smoke, stop. If you drink alcohol, drink less.

-- Get organized. It’s amazing how much more productive you can be in an organized area.

Q and A

Q: What is the difference between extra-virgin olive oil and pure olive oil?

A: Olive oil is made from pressed olives. Extra-virgin olive oil is done using only the first pressing, while pure, or regular, olive oil contains a combination of virgin (or pressed) oil and refined (heated or chemically extracted) olive oil. Although extra-virgin olive oil is often more expensive than regular olive oil, it is considered healthier because it is less refined.

RECIPE

Here’s a recipe to start the New Year right, with plenty of protein, Greek-inspired flavors and a low calorie count. It was one of the most popular recipes

from Eating Well magazine. LEMON & DILL CHICKEN

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth

2 teaspoons flour

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, divided

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, and sear until well browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate, and tent with foil. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil to the pan. Add onion and garlic, and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Whisk together broth, flour, 1 tablespoon dill and lemon juice, and add to pan. Cook, whisking, until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan; reduce heat to low, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a warmed plat-

ter. Season sauce with salt and pepper, and spoon over the chicken. Garnish with the remaining 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill. Serves 4.

Per serving: 170 calories; 24.1 grams protein; 3.3 grams carbohydrates; 1 grams sugar; 6.2 grams total fat; 1.3 grams saturated fat; 63 milligrams cholesterol; 0.3 grams fiber; 339 milligrams sodium.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian at Hy-Vee in Springfield,

Illinois, and the media representative for the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD. To find out more about Charlyn Fargo and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com

COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Mary Answers Readers’ Credit Card Questions

Every day, I open my inbox to find questions from you, my dear readers. Today I found two on the same subject: credit cards.

LEAVE ‘EM ALONE, AND THEY’LL GO HOME

Dear Mary: Should I cancel old credit cards that I no longer use? -- Stephanie

Dear Stephanie: No. It seems like the logical thing to do, but if you close old accounts, you may lower your credit score. Two of the factors used to calculate that score are history (how long you’ve had credit) and debt-to-limit ratio (how much of your available credit is being used at any given time).

Closing an old account can shorten your credit history and increase your debt-to-limit ratio. Both will hurt your credit score. Leave them alone unless there is a compelling reason to keep them, like an annual fee or a child who is a co-signer and might go on a spending spree.

Here’s an important tip: For ac-

counts you want to keep active, use them three or four times a year for even a very small purchase. Then pay the balance in full immediately. Banks don’t want inactive accounts, and they are aggressively closing them.

THE RISKS OF REWARDS

Dear Mary: Friends tell us that we should be using a credit card that rewards us in some way, instead of our plain old Visa card that does nothing for us. What type of credit card should we be using that is accepted at nearly all gas stations and most hotels and restaurants? -- Angela

Dear Angela: You left out a very important morsel of information. Are you carrying credit card debt from one month to the next? If you are, you have, in my opinion, forfeited the privilege to play the rewards game. You need to stop using your credit cards until that glorious day that you are not carrying a balance.

BY MARY HUNT

Let’s go ahead and assume you have no credit card debt. Even then, reward cards can be tricky. Most of them charge an annual fee. You have to do a lot of charging over a year’s time to earn enough rewards to offset that annual fee.

And there are other limitations and conditions one should always consider before jumping onto the rewards wagon.

Credit card offers change like the wind. I could list a couple of reward cards you might want to consider right here, and they could be obsolete by the time you read it.

So instead, I will direct you to http://IndexCreditCards.com, one of several sites that keeps tabs on current credit card offers with their terms and conditions. You will find credit cards organized by what they offer. Look for one with no annual fee.

One word of caution: You could easily shoot yourself in the foot if you get hooked on earning re-

wards. Running up big balances every month to earn the maximum rewards can be quite risky.

Of course, you will intend to pay the balance off in full during the grace period (which you have only if you start the billing cycle with a zero balance owing), but just one slip-up resulting in a late fee or a couple of months paying interest on a big balance will wipe out your rewards in a big hurry.

Never forget that credit card companies exist to get as much of your money as they can. They are not outreach ministries in search of ways to make your life better. They do not care about you, nor are they anxious for you to come out as the winner when they come up with these marketing campaigns that give cash back or some other reward.

You have to get up pretty early in the morning to win at that game.

Would you like more information? Go to EverydayCheapskate.

com for links and resources for recommended products and services in this column. Mary invites questions, comments and tips at EverydayCheapskate.com, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a lifestyle blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS. COM

Catholic Schools Week

January 26th – February 1st, 2020

What is Catholic Schools Week?

Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January, which in 2020 is January 26th, and runs through February 1st. The theme for the Catholic Schools Week 2020 is “Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our church, our communities and our nation.

On Long Island, Catholic Elementary Schools celebrate the week with Masses and open houses to thank parishioners, to welcome visitors and to introduce new families to the benefits of a Catholic education. These frequently kick off with a Mass and open house on the first Sunday (the 26th), and a series of events designed to recognize the contributions of students, parents and faculty during the course of the week. Many schools offer additional open houses and opportunities to visit during the week as well. For more information, Calendars of Events and links to the schools, visit LICatholicElementarySchools.org.

Camp Marist

Camp Marist

Camp Marist is an overnight summer camp for boys and girls, ages 6-16. The camp is on beautiful Lake Ossipee in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Campers come from all over the world to enjoy sports, water activities, adventure and make friendships. Campers live in cabins, supervised by staff members and can participate in over 40 different activities. For more information: www.campmarist.org

Saint Anne’s School

CELEBRATING

OVER 65 YEARS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION

St. Anne’s School, located in Garden City, New York, offers a Family Oriented Catholic Education to all of its students. St. Anne’s is committed to preparing our children for high school, college and career readiness by working in partnership with our students and their families while teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ through word and deed.

Offering an excellent academic program, St. Anne’s follows the New York State Standards. In all curriculum areas, students are encouraged to think critically, independently and honestly. They are given the opportunity to make choices and assume responsibility within a loving, disciplined, well maintained and safe environment.

As a Catholic Faith Community, St. Anne’s is dedicated to helping each child feel God’s presence and love. Children are encouraged

to demonstrate Catholic Virtues through the celebration of Mass, Sacrament Preparation, and service to those in need. These tenets are essential to our children’s academic, spiritual and moral growth.

Students at St. Anne’s are also offered unique

academic opportunities by our caring and motivated teachers and staff. In addition to the core curriculum, there are opportunities to participate in Spanish, Accelerated Math, Music, Technology and Art classes. The school has interactive whiteboards in all classes, a science lab, a technology room and a music center.

St. Anne’s School is proud that 100% of our students are accepted to Catholic High Schools. The school is a strong part of the St. Anne’s Parish Family where the children benefit from the partnership of faculty, staff, parents, students and the entire Parish Community working together to educate our children in an educational atmosphere of mutual respect for all and an understanding that Jesus Christ is the reason for this school.

25 Dartmouth St. Garden City, NY 11530

Catholic Schools Week Celebration 2020

Friday, January 24,

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court

Nassau County THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH TRUST 2006-19 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 200619, Plaintiff against LINDA BUTRICO, et al Defendants

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered August 23, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at CCP (Calendar Control Part Courtroom), in the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on February 18, 2020 at 11:30 AM. Premises known as 45 Pheasant Lane, Unit 106, Woodbury, NY 11797. Sec 15 Block D Lot 530, Unit 106. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, being a part of a condominium at Woodbury, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $774,835.97 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 17-003778. For sale information, please visit www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832.

Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee 37846

Druckman Law Group PLLC, 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590 Attorney (s) for Plaintiff (s).

SYO 4338

4X 01/17,24,31,02/07

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Article III, Section 246-18-E 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 30, 2020, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 20-30

SYOSSET

HAGAY KEREN: Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high fence on 2 ft. high wall 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. 20-31

SYOSSET

KOORESH SHOOSHTARY:

Variance to allow existing circular driveway having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.

E/s/o Cambria Rd., 422.11 ft. N/o Wood Ct., a/k/a 29 Cambria Road, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 19-607

SYOSSET

ALAN LANG: Variance to allow existing natural gas generator in front yard.

SE/ cor. of Burtis Ln. & Burtis Ln., a/k/a 69 Burtis Lane, Syosset, NY

JANUARY 20, 2020 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

SYO 4339 1X 01/24

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S

SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 18th, 2020, will sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 13th, 2020 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property.

Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per sixmonth period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No.

175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny. gov/526/County-Treasurer Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February 2020 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/DocumentCenter/ View/17674

A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 05, 2020.

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.

Dated: January 17, 2020

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

TERMS OF SALE

Such tax liens shall be sold sub-

ject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts.

However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County's Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/ or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser's rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser's right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act(FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et.seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation(FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its agencies, assumes no responsibili-

ty for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk.

The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding, 1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication

or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 17, 2020

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York

SYO 4340 2X 01/24,31

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Article III, Section 246-18-E 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 30, 2020, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 20-28

JERICHO

BRIJESH GOSWAMI: (A)

Variance to construct raised paver patio having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct one story addition and wood platform with steps to grade exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance

to construct one story addition having less roof pitch than permitted by Ordinance.

E/s/o Friendly Ln., 279.50

ft. S/o Forest Dr., a/k/a 46 Friendly Lane, Jericho, NY

APPEAL NO. 20-29

JERICHO

XIAOLE ZHENG & HAIBO

YUAN: (A) Variance to construct rear wood deck and allow existing awning over patio having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing awning over patio having less aggregate side yards and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Amend Specific Plan as presented for Appeal No. 63-78 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated March 21, 1963.

S/s/o Seaman Rd., 210.08

ft. W/o Leahy St., a/k/a 106 Seaman Road, Jericho, NY

APPEAL NO. 20-35

JERICHO

KIMCO JERICHO MI LLC:

(A) Variance to construct three-story 93-room hotel building exceeding maximum height than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance for the reduction of off-street parking spaces. Reduction of spaces to 1,576 when 2,128 spaces are required.

SE/ cor. of N. Broadway & NYS Route 25, a/k/a 585 N. Broadway, Jericho, NY

JANUARY 20, 2020 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

JNJ 7931

1X 01/24

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 18th, 2020, will sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 13th, 2020 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest,

LEGAL NOTICES

penalties and other expenses and charges against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per sixmonth period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny. gov/526/County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February 2020 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/DocumentCenter/ View/17674

A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 05, 2020. Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conduct-

ed by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.

Dated: January 17, 2020

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

TERMS OF SALE

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts.

However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County's Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/ or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser's rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser's right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act(FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et.seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation(FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax

liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk.

The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding, 1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certif-

See page 18

From page 17

icate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will

be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 17, 2020

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

Faith Lutheran Church hosts Chamber of Commerce meeting

From page 8

by Mr. Bloom. We also host outside musical and choral groups from the community with the church as their rehearsal space; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights we welcome music groups rehearsing at our church. That is another way we are looking to do even more with our community,” she said.

www.faithsysosset.org or call (516) 921-3330.

JNJ 7932

2X 01/24,31

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Your Community, Your Newspaper

Pastor Sheridan attended her first Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce meeting on October 17 at Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation. Less than six weeks later, she delivered an inspirational message during the Chamber’s annual Holiday Spectacular Tree Lighting, in Syosset’s downtown on Jackson Avenue, on Sunday, December 8, 2019. For January she went the full next step with participation in the Chamber, as Faith Lutheran Church hosted the Chamber and many of its new members from all over Long Island at the venue, 231 Jackson Avenue, as area business professionals gathered for their first social event this year.

Faith Lutheran Church’s mission is “to preach, teach, and share God’s love in Christ.” Its Sunday worship and Sunday school take place each week at 10 a.m.

“We are thrilled to participate in the Syosset Woodbury Chamber and connect with other resources, non-profit organizations and individuals. I believe all of Syosset can be stronger when we support our local businesses and build upon that sense of community. Faith Lutheran Church can be a part of that as we know our neighbors, we open our doors and we shop locally as we’re able to,” Sheridan said.

For more information, visit Faith Lutheran Church in Syosset or its website,

In addition to seasoned members, the January 16 Chamber meeting was attended by several new members. Introductions were made and this year‘s officers and board members were introduced. Syosset Woodbury Chamber board member and membership committee Chairman Alan Goldberg addressed attendees and updated them on current membership statistics, upcoming events planned and some of which are in the works.

“I am glad to see high attendance and especially happy to see brand new members feeling welcomed by some of our more seasoned members. I’ve spoken to all the new members as part of our welcoming process when a new member joins, and I am glad to put faces to names. I’ve worked closely with our Chamber Administrator, Felice Linder, to send out informational emails and meeting reminders while fine-tuning our back office systems and lists. My membership co-chair, Carolyn Palladino of Excel at Woodbury, and board member Tricia Shannon followed up on 2020 Membership Invoices sent out in December by making phone calls and giving our members an overview of what’s to come,“ he said.

This year the Chamber will also introduce a Syosset Business Mentoring Program, run by retired Syosset business owners and industry veterans who will act as mentors to new business owner members.

February 10 Chamber Membership Happy Hour

The Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its Paid Up Member “Wing Thing: Membership Appreciation Happy Hour” networking and cock -

tail reception on Monday, February 10 at the Hurricane Grill & Wings in Syosset, 275 Jericho Turnpike. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. Chamber members will have the opportunity to meet their peers and learn about the latest in local events and business opportunities while enjoying complimentary appetizers and a free drink, with a cash bar available after the first round of beverages.

According to Alan Goldberg, the Happy Hour is a way for the Chamber to encourage 2018 & 2019 Members to pay 2020 dues in a timely fashion “and start taking advantage of the valuable networking and business opportunities offered by the Chamber.”

“We expect 50 to 60 people to take advantage of this fun opportunity to socialize and network with fellow members. We’ll also welcome about a dozen brand new members, who will have the opportunity to network and socialize more with current members. The Syosset Woodbury Chamber did this with very positive results and feedback last year and will probably make it an annual event,” he commented.

While the upcoming Happy Hour Networking Mixer is free for current, Paid Up Chamber members. it’s also open to prospective members for $20.

The Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce holds its regular meetings on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at various member-hosted businesses.

Visit the Chamber’s website, www.syossetchamber. com, to learn more about the February 10th event and the next Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce general meeting, scheduled for Thursday, February 20th at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road.

Wedding vows at Town Hall

From page 1

Those looking to have a civil ceremony performed on Valentine’s Day at Town Hall should contact the Town Clerk’s Office at (516) 624-6333. Couples must obtain a New York State Marriage License prior to being married. For more information on obtaining a license, contact the Town Clerk’s Office at (516) 624-6335 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

SYO  HOMES  1/10/20

Syosset Real Estate Market Conditions

• Median sales price

$737,500

Demographics near Syosset, NY City County

1 Erie Court, Jericho

Sold Price: $970,000 Date: 12/16/2019

5 beds, 3 Full/1 Half baths Style: Colonial # of Families: 1

24 Merit Lane, Jericho

Sold Price: $1,068,000

Date: 12/11/2019

4 beds, 2 Full/1 Half baths

Lot Size: 99x140

Schools: Jericho

Total Taxes: $24,854

MLS# 3169822

25 Jean Place, Syosset

Sold Price: $950,000

Date: 12/06/2019

4 beds, 3 Full baths

Style: Ranch # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 69x115

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $20,057

MLS# 3130813

Lot Size: 103x124

Schools: Jericho

Total Taxes: $19,032

Style: Split # of Families: 1

1 Erie  Court, Jericho

MLS# 3172327 5 Melanie Lane, Syosset

Sold Price: $500,000

Date: 12/03/2019

3 beds, 1 Full/1 Half baths

Style: Ranch # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 86x88

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $12,654

MLS# 3140998

Sold Price: $970,000 Date: 12/16/2019

5  beds,  3  Full/1  Half  baths

HAMLET ESTATES AT JERICHO

Jericho | $2,378,000 | 5-BR, 5.5-BA | Web# 3109378 | Warmth and style greet you upon entering this delightful colonial in the beautiful Hamlet Estates gated community, with all amenities. Professionally designed with impeccable attention to detail, inside and out with custom flooring, cabinetry, and top-of-the-line fixtures. The luxury master suite features a balcony. The quiet yard overlooks tiered gardens, perfect for entertaining.

Jericho | $2,400,000 | 5-BR, 5.5-BA | Web# 3107780 | Perfect location backing nature preserve. Dramatic colonial offering soaring ceilings and high-end touches throughout. This beautifully appointed home boasts a chef’s kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances and custom cabinetry. While resting in the master bedroom suite, sit by the warm and cozy fireplace. Or enjoy the serene outdoors with beautiful acre views. Unsurpassed lifestyle in premier gated community with endles s possibilities.