Jericho-Syosset News Journal (3/6/20)

PAJAMA DAY Environmental concerns aired over

joined the

Day festivities at

Kids Gym in

on Friday, Feb. 7 - a fun occasion for participants that doubles as a successful annual book and pajama drive. The event was held in partnership with the Long Island Pajama Program, which provides books and pajamas to children in need. Attendees were invited to wear their favorite pajamas to the event and asked to bring an extra pair to donate. Legislator Drucker contributed pajamas to the Long Island Pajama Program, which to date has provided nearly 4.2 million pairs of pajamas and more than 2.74 million books to children.

Freezin’

for a Reason Polar Plunge

Town of Oyster Bay residents will once again have the opportunity to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” and support Special Olympics New York by participating in the 7th Annual Special Olympics New York-Town of Oyster Bay Polar Plunge on Saturday, March 14. The event will take place at TOBAY Beach with registration start-

ing at 9:30 a.m. and the plunge to begin at 11:30 a.m.

Each year, Special Olympics New York Polar Plunges are held throughout the state to attract thousands of chilled souls to engage in a commendable and thrilling fundraising event. All funds support Special Olympics New York’s programs and promote awareness

of people living with intellectual disabilities in New York. To register, visit www.polarplungeNY.org/tobay to form a team, invite your family and friends to join your team, create your own Personal Plunge Page and send it out to your contacts – all with a few clicks of the mouse!

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the February meeting of the Syosset Board of Edcation, resident Kevin McKenna, a grassroots activist, questioned the Superintendent of Schools and Board of Education about the environmental status of the now-defunct Syosset Park Development, which would have been adjacent to Robbins Lane Elementary School.

McKenna, who runs the the Facebook page “Save Our Syosset, Jericho, Hicksville, Plainview,” addressed Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Rogers and the Syosset Board of Education at its last meeting held February 10, 2020.

McKenna and several of the current Board of Education members were in attendance for the lone Town Hall-style Town of Oyster Bay public hearing on the Environmental Impact Statement and Town permits for a proposed (and now defunct) Syosset Park Development which would have been built atop 150 Miller Place, adjacent to the Long Island Expressway and Robbins Lane Elementary School. The property currently houses the Town Department of Public Works facilities.

In May 2019, developers officially filed as Syosset Park Devel-

opment LLC -- led by a group from Indianapolis-based Simon Properties and Manhasset-based Castagna Realty -- backed out of the deal in which they contracted to buy 54 acres of land owned by the Town of Oyster Bay, with 150 Miller Place its former town landfill, once declared a Superfund site by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the 39-acre former Cerro Wire property off Robbins Lane. The original proposal, dating to 2018 as the subject of the Town Board’s hearing, was to include 625 residences, 464,000 square feet of retail use, entertainment and/or restaurant space, 200,000 square feet of office space plus two hotels with about 350 rooms in all, and a 30-acre community park area. In a February 21 email to Nassau County Legislator Arnold Drucker, McKenna stated that he’s heard from an assistant to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Regional Director Carrie Meek Gallagher, based in Stony Brook, that Gallagher verbally replied to a request Legislator Drucker made in writing about results of environmental testing at 150 Miller Place, on County Legislature letterhead and dated January 17, 2020. McKenna recently made a

See page 14

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview)

Pajama

M.A.T.S.S.

Syosset

Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast

The Glen Cove Hicksville Syosset Chapter of the Mercy League will be hosting a Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast on Saturday, March 28 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. (last order taken at 9:30 a.m.)

The meal will include pancakes, scrambled eggs and a beverage (coffee, tea, juice, soda or tea).

The event will take place at Applebees, 938 S. Broadway, Hicksville. Tickets are $13

For more information, place contact mercyleague.copresidents@gmail.com

Celebrate Purim with TOB Chabad

The Town of Oyster Bay Chabad will be hosting a community-wide celebration including a magic show, face painting, balloon animals, cotton candy, temporary tattoos, crowning ceremony, bubbles, games, dancing, music and more!

Event will take place on Tuesday, March 10 at 4:15 p.m. At 678 Woodbury Rd, Woodbury

NY, followed by reading the Megilla and recounting the miracle of Purim. This program is free of charge.

Also featured will be music, drinks and hamantashen. Celebrating the joy of Purim will be an experience to be remembered.

For more information and to register for free, visit us online at Jewishtob.org

Solo exhibition at Woodbury gallery

Joan Reutershan, “Purple Punk with Platform Pump.”

Acrylic, marker, foil, found objects, polymer pieces and silkscreen ink on canvas.

One River School of Art + Design presents BKNY Street View, a solo exhibition of recent paintings by Brooklynbased artist, Joan Reutershan.

The exhibition, which features 14 mixed media collage paintings and drawings inspired by her experience

living in New York City, will be on view through April 26th.

Joan Reutershan examines the complex, dense, and layered contemporary landscape of New York City in her recent works on view at One River School of Art + Design in Woodbury. The colorful mixed media collage paintings feature equally intricate processes and imagery that mirror her experience living and working in Brooklyn.

By layering silkscreen, drawing, painting, and collage, Reutershan creates abstract streetscapes that engage with agitated urban space. The layers of medium overlap, interweave, and unravel as imagery of recognizable figures and symbols interact with ambiguous and unfamiliar abstract shapes.

Reutershan engages in conversation with the languages of graffiti, construction plans, and Pokémon Go while expertly weaving in influences of color field painting and the grids of modernist minimalism. This combination of contrary elements in material, references, and sources embraces contradiction.

Reutershan writes, “Though thematizing incongruity and juxtapositions, my painting is not about settling with ambiguity: Elements of coherence in color, composition, and other odd rhymes challenge the chaos, and embody joy at attempting, or imagining transformation.”

For more information about Joan Reutershan and the exhibition, visit https://woodbury.oneriverschool.com/ exhibitions/.

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Free musical performances at local libraries

The Town of Oyster Bay's Department of Community and Youth Services will be offering free musical performances during the month of March 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.

Councilwoman Walsh stated, “The Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Department of Community and Youth Services has worked tirelessly over the years to bring our residents the finest entertainment possible, providing a wide spectrum of music, comedic and dramatic programs to suit every taste. The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is a great example of this, and I encourage residents looking to expand their cultural palette to take advantage of these free concert held each month at local libraries.”

Upcoming performances for March 2020 include:

• Napoleon Revels-Bey – Al Andalusia to Dizzy, the Old and New World Connection Through

the Roots of the Clave on Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 2 p.m. at the Locust Valley Public Library.

• The Golden Chords – A Tribute to the Music of Bob Dylan on Sunday, March 15, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Jericho Public Library (tickets required for performances at Jericho Public Library as space is limited, tickets available at the library beginning on February 12, 2020, for more information call 516-935-6790.)

• Lee Glantz – A Tribute to the Music of Cole Porter on Sunday, March 22, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at the Syosset Public Library.

• The Chamlins – Cabaret Couple featuring the Songs of the Ladies of Tin Pan Alley on Sunday, March 29, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Hicksville Public Library.

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

Syosset Mathletes win first place in Nassau Mathematics Tournament

The Syosset High School Mathletes team

The Syosset Mathletes competed on February 7, 2020 in the Nassau Mathematics Tournament at SUNY Old Westbury. Led by Coaches Kimberly Dwyer and Mark McBurnie, the Syosset Mathletes earned three team medals. The Lower Division Team A won the Curt Boddie Memorial Award for a first place finish! Syosset teams also earned second and fifth place in the Upper Division, and a

ninth place in the Lower Division. In addition to the team meals, Syosset students also won thirteen individual medals!

The Annual Nassau Mathematics Tournament has been taking place at SUNY Old Westbury since it began in 1985. It takes place the first Friday in February and is administered by Art Kalish, vice president of the Nassau County Interscholastic Mathematics League.

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Despite all the partisan gridlock and dysfunction in Washington, I am working hard every day to deliver for the hard-working families of Nassau and Suffolk. It’s an honor to represent you –and I hope I can count on your continued support.

★ Supports dramatic efforts to address climate change such as the Green New Deal, quadrupled LI Sound funding to protect our local environment and increased funding to clean up the NavyGrumman plume

★ Fighting to expand access and make healthcare more affordable, lower prescription drug costs and provide long term care

★ Proposed bipartisan immigration reform that will treat everyone with human respect and dignity and protect our border

★ Leading the fight and passed legislation in the House to repeal the unfair GOP cap on our state and local tax deduction (SALT)

★ Continues to speak out against Trump’s divisive attacks on women, immigrants, working families and all people of good will

★ Strong advocate for common sense gun violence prevention laws including universal background checks and red flag laws

Pet Food and Supply Challenge

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that it will participate in Long Island Cares’ 9th Annual Legislative Pet Food & Supply Drive Challenge. The drive will take place during the months of March and April with a focus on collecting for the family members most vulnerable to hunger, residents’ pets. Long Island Cares formed Baxter’s Pet Pantry Pets in 2009 to assist in feeding dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, caged pets, fish, reptiles and all others considered family members.

“Pets truly are members of our family,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Pet food donations will help feed animals in need, which in turn keeps pets at home with their loved ones and out of shelters. The Town is proud to partner with LI Cares to collect generous donations for this worthwhile cause.”

The creation of Baxter’s Pet Pantry by Long Island Cares has helped distribute over one million pounds of pet food, all of which has been donated through pet food drives like this one and corporate donations.

“Unfortunately, many beloved pets that are placed into shelters or given away because families simply cannot

afford the necessary food and supplies,” Councilwoman Johnson stated. “When struggling families have to make choices to heat their homes, buy medication or feed their own families, pets can become an afterthought. Pet food drives like this one can be a real lifesaver for both pets and their families.”

The pet food and supply drive in the Town of Oyster Bay will be held from March 1 through April 30. Those interested in supporting the pet food drive can place donated items in drop off boxes located in the following Town of Oyster Bay locations:

• Department of Public Works – 150 Miller Place – Syosset

• Town Hall North – 54 Audrey Avenue - Oyster Bay

• Town Hall South – 977 Hicksville Road – Massapequa

• Hicksville Athletic Center – 167 S. Broadway - Hicksville

• Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center – 1001 Stewart Avenue - Bethpage

Regular business hours for the locations are 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. For more information, visit www.licares.org or call Esther Alter in the Town’s Public Information Office at (516) 624-6380.

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SHS student awarded Gold Keys in Scholastic Art & Writing competition

Syosset High School student Sabrina Guo received two Gold Key awards in the 2020 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Regional Competition. Gold and Silver Key awards are presented to the best works submitted across 29 categories of art and writing by students in grades 7-12. Guo won Gold Keys for her poem “Repertoire: White Dog” and her critical essay “The Case for Early Integration of Teen Relationship Discussions into Health Class Curriculum.” She also won five Silver Keys and eight Honorable

Mentions for additional submissions across the categories of Poetry, Critical Essay, Personal Essay & Memoir, and Science Fiction & Fantasy.

Gold Key pieces are automatically considered for National-level recognition where they are judged nationally by a panel of creative-industry experts. In 2018, Guo won a National Gold Medal for a poetry collection. 2020 National Gold Medal and Silver Medal Award winners will be announced in March.

At a recent meeting of the SyossetWoodbury Rotary Club, Alexis Zilletto was inducted as the club's newest member. Born and raised in the Bronx, Alexis graduated from the Professional

Performing Arts High School in Manhattan. In 2012, she moved to Long Island and now is employed for The Chwast CPA Group, P.C. as a staff accountant.

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Rotary President Bob Mittleman, Rotarian Jay Nathan, Alexis Zillato, Past Rotary Governor Dr. Eileen Gentilcore

Sabrina Guo

Harvard Club honors Syosset HS teachers

Four Syosset High School teachers have been recognized by the Harvard Club of Long Island (HCLI) as part of their annual Distinguished Teacher Program which honors outstanding Long Island teachers. Veronica Ade, Kimberly Dwyer and Richard Sleslinski have each been named “Distinguished Teacher” and Marcy Eager is being honored as a “Distinguished Teacher

2020.”

Every year since the program’s inception in 2005, current Harvard undergraduates from Long Island have nominated the secondary-level teachers who have made the greatest difference in their lives.

In nominating Ade, the research program facilitator at the high school for the past eight years, a former

Syosset High School student described her as “Not only remarkable for all of the accolades she has brought to Syosset’s research program, but her for her outstanding attention to detail and understanding of students.”  Ade, who holds two Master’s degrees (one in education and one in biology) has had her own research in ocean acidification published in Frontier Science: Ecology and Evolution.

Dwyer has been at Syosset High School since 2006 where she teaches ENL math, geometry and AP Calculus, and has coached the Mathletes since 2010.  Recently named a NYS Master Teacher, Dwyer has served as an adjunct professor at LIU Post teaching calculus and is currently the treasurer for the New York State Mathematics League.  Her nominator credits her with teaching them “to value the importance of teamwork and remember the world outside the Mathletes bubble with mathematical and philanthropic fund-raising.”

Also a NYS Master Teacher, Slesinski has been teaching physics for 16 years in Syosset.  His nominator appreciated his “making a difficult subject like AP Physics so accessible and fun to learn, teaching at a pace that ensured every single student stayed up to speed, and going above and beyond in constantly taking students’ personal needs into consideration.” When he is not advising the Students Against Violence Everywhere club or playing music with his accordion, Slesinski

is also a teacher leader who frequently engages in professional learning with colleagues from the greater Long Island region.

Eager has made “an impact so indelible it will never leave me,” said one of her former students. “I am a better student, thinking and aspiring chemist today because of it.” In addition to teaching Advanced Social Science Research, AP Micro and Macro Economics, AP Government and Politics, and AP World History at Syosset for 19 years, she is also an adjunct professor of economics and finance at Nassau Community College.  An advisor for the high school newspaper, Eager has also coached Fed Challenge teams, a Lincoln Douglas Debate team, a team for the Council for Economic Education initiative, and several finalists and semi-finalists in the Intel Competition.

“On behalf of the Board of Education and the entire central administration team, I congratulate and thank Ms. Ade, Ms. Eager, Ms. Dwyer and Mr. Slesinski for their dedication to our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Rogers. “We are fortunate to have these exceptional educators as integral members of our faculty, and they richly deserve this recognition.”

Every year the HCLI recognizes 50-80 Distinguished Teachers, with 12 honored as finalists for a Harvard fellowship, the latter of which Eager has been named. Fellowship winners will be announced at a university luncheon in April.

Spring enrichment classes for adults

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Department of Community and Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts Division (CAPA) will be once again offering exciting cultural enrichment programs for the spring 2020 season, and registration for all applications is now open.

“I am pleased to announce that the Town’s Cultural Enrichment Program will return once again this spring, as these enrichment programs offer residents the opportunity to develop a new skill while having fun in the process,” Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. “Whether you’re an emerging artist or a resident looking for a new hobby, these classes offer a wonderful opportunity to broaden your horizons, and provide not only education but enjoyment as well.”

All of the classes will be held at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, located at 7800 Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury, except for the All About Crystals and Meditation and Spiritual Awakening workshops, which will be held at North Massapequa Community Center, 214 N. Albany Avenue in Massapequa. Classes fill up quickly and are available on a first come, first served basis. Workshop schedules are as follows:

• Watercolor – Beginners10 weekly sessions on Mondays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on March 2.

• Watercolor – Intermediate – 10 weekly sessions on Mondays, 12:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on

March 2.

• Painting in Oils – Beginners10 weekly sessions on Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on March 3.

• Painting in Oils –Intermediate- 10 weekly sessions on Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on March 3.

• Drawing Fundamentals- 10 weekly sessions on Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on March 4.

• Sumi-e Painting - 10 weekly sessions on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on March 5.

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• Abstract Acrylics- 10 weekly sessions on Fridays, 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Center, beginning on March 6.

• All About Crystals- 4 weekly sessions on Mondays, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at the North Massapequa Community Center, beginning on March 23.

• Meditation & Spiritual Awakening - 4 weekly sessions on Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at the North Massapequa Community Center, beginning on March 17.

To obtain an Enrichment Program Brochure or obtain additional information on classes and registration, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com or call the Town’s Department of Community and Youth Services at (516) 797-7925.

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Harvard Club of Long Island Distinguished Teachers (from left) Veronica Ade, Kimberly Dwyer, Marcy Eager and Richard Sleslinski. Photo courtesy of the Syosset School District

Local senator has many initiatives on the table

BY GARY SIMEONE

State Senator James Gaughran, who represents Nassau County’s 5th district, has his mind set on the upcoming  state budget, which is scheduled to be adopted April 1st. State Governor Andrew Cuomo released his 2021 executive budget proposal of $178 billion in January, and the plan calls for closing a sizable $6.1 billion projected budget gap.

“This is a big issue and we have a lot of hard choices to make regarding this upcoming budget,” said Gaughran. “Some of our top priorities include getting as much money as we can back to Long Island for our public school districts and funding for our hospitals and nursing homes with the increased Medicare costs, which is a heavy burden on our taxpayers.”

Some of the initiatives Gaughran has on the table include an environmental initiative to make sure there is significant funding for proposed projects on Long Island, including the upgrading of our sewer treatment systems. One of the systems he’s focused on is in nearby Oyster Bay Harbor, which is located within the confines of his district.

“We are looking to improve our sewer treatment systems through storm resiliency and at issues such as the nitrogen runoff into our waterway,” said Gaughran. “ We are looking at ways to deal with the continuous threat to our drinking water to make sure it is clean and safe for people’s consumption.”

Another issue that he is focused on is discrimination in the real estate industry. He proposed a bill late last year that would allow for the suspension or revocation of the license of a real estate agent who violates the new anti-discrimination law.

“This bill will help expand the state’s authority to suspend or revoke a real estate agent’s license if they are found guilty of racial discrimination. It will help to deter bad actors in the real estate business.”

There are many fire departments who are actively recruiting new memberships and Gaughran said he was working on a bill to help fire departments recruit new volunteers.

“I helped sponsor a bill to get the state more involved in local fire departments and to spend more money to help them recruit new members,” said Gaughran. “What a lot of people don’t know is that to replace a volunteer for someone with paid services results in a twenty five percent increase in our residents property taxes.”

The senator is also a big proponent of increased funding for our road and highway programs through the CHIPS highway aid program, which stands for Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program.

“I’m fighting to increase funding in our local government for the repaving our roads and highways with many of them in a state of disrepair,” said Gaughran.

Mercy League Military Bridge

The Glen Cove -  HicksvilleSyosset chapter of the Mercy League will be holding a Military Bridge on Sunday, March 8 from 2–5 p.m. (doors open at 1:30 p.m.)

Knowledge of bridge is not necessary. This is a fun game which can be learned quickly as you play along. The event will take place at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish in Hicksville. The gym entrance is on Nicolai Street.

Admission is $10. Refreshments: coffee, tea and desserts will be served. Cash prizes for the top three teams. $100 lottery board ($50 guaranteed), 50/50, raffle prizes. For more information, please contact Arleen Bergin at 516-935-7294.

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

This Week at the Jericho Public Library

Through March 29

Art On Display:

Manhasset Art Association: “Through Our Eyes” in the Gallery. Models and sculptures in the Lobby Showcases by Donald Sadowsky in the Gallery through March.

Sunday, March 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Meet the Artist Reception: Manhasset Art Association “Through Our Eyes”

The public is invited to attend.

Tuesday, March 10 at 2:00 p.m.

Movie: “Pavarotti”

(Documentary, Biography, Music)

Life works and achievements of opera legend Luciano Pavarotti.

Starring Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Griminelli, Nicoletta Mantovani

Rated PG-13. 1 hour 54 minutes.

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

For more information, go to www.jericholibrary.org

March Movie and Book Discussions at Jericho Library

Tuesday, March 10 at 2:00 p.m.

Movie: “Pavarotti”

(Documentary, Biography, Music)

Life works and achievements of opera legend Luciano Pavarotti.

Starring Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Griminelli, Nicoletta Mantovani

Rated PG-13. 1 hour 54 minutes.

Friday, March 13 at 2:00 p.m.

Movie: “Parasite” (Comedy, Crime, Drama)

The Kims, a poor family, con their way into becoming the servants of the Park’s rich household. But their easy life gets complicated when their deception is threatened with exposure. Starring Kang-ho Song, Sun-Kyun Lee, Yeo-Jeong Jo

Rated R. 2 hours 12 minutes. Subtitles: Korean.

Tuesday, March 17 at 7:00 p.m.

Talk About Books:

An Evening Book Discussion with Fran Cohen

“The Age of Light” by Whitney Scharer

Alternating timelines between 1930s Paris and the battlefields of WWII, this fascinating novel brings to life the fearlessly original artist, Vogue model turned photographer Lee Miller. Listeners are welcome!

Thursday, March 19 at 2:00 & 6:30 p.m.

Movie: “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (Comedy/Drama)

A faded television actor and his stunt double strive to achieve fame and success in the film industry during the final years of Hollywood’s Golden Age in 1969 Los Angeles. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie.

Rated R. 2 hours, 41 minutes.

Sunday, March 22 at 2:00 p.m.

Family Movie: “Frozen 2” No registration necessary.

Programs will take place at the Jericho Public Library: 1 Merry Lane, Jericho. For more information, go to www.jericholibrary.org

This Week at the Syosset P ublic Library

Thursday, March 5 and March 12

from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Seniors of Syosset Drop In Sessions

Presenter: “Seniors of Syosset” of the Mid-Island Y JCC

These are drop-in hours. This is not a lecture. Come anytime between the office hours listed.

Come meet staff from “Seniors of Syosset” a new program of the MidIsland Y JCC, offering services to help older adults to age-in-place in Syosset.  Funded through New York State Office for the Aging, Seniors of Syosset is a Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community program.  This new program, known as NNORC-SOS for short, will offer social work support, community health nursing, volunteer-based transportation to local medical appointments and shopping, and other activities and services, including some right here at the library!  Whether you are a senior in need of support, someone who wants to volunteer helping the community, or just someone who wants to learn more, we hope you will drop-in and get involved!

Free. No registration required.

Friday, March 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Let’s Chat

Presenter: Beth Matlin, MSW

Meet with other mature adults to discuss the common challenges and issues we encounter growing older in today’s society.

Free. No registration required.

Friday, March 6 at 2 p.m.

From Streaming TV to the Oscars: How Netflix is Disrupting the Entertainment Industry

Presenter: Brian Rose, professor of communications, Fordham University From its start as a DVD rent by mail service, Netflix has systematically changed the rules of the media business. Its introduction of streaming in 2007 led to the decline of the video rental store and dramatically increased the use of broadband Internet. With an ever increasing budget of over $15 billion per

year, service to 190 countries and 150 million subscribers, this presentation will examine how Netflix is primed to become the dominant source of leisure time entertainment throughout the world.

Free. No registration required.

Friday, March 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Census and You

Presenter: U.S. Census Bureau

A U.S. Census Bureau specialist will present an informational workshop to raise awareness about why the census matters and the importance of a complete count of everyone in the United States. Employment opportunities within the Census Bureau will also be discussed. A Q&A will follow the 30-minute presentation. Persons representing local legislators and community leaders will also be in the audience to support this effort. Translators from the Chinese American Association of Syosset will be on hand to help those whose first language is Chinese.

Free. No registration required.

Thursday, March 12 at 2 p.m. Early Rock ‘n Roll Ballads

Presenter: Richard Knox, retired teacher

While the first decade of the rock ‘n roll era was dominated by up tempo hits by artists such as Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley and the Four Seasons, several other great vocalists emerged with both original and cover versions of classic ballads that have endured over the half century since they were first recorded. This nostalgic program will revisit many of the classic numbers by groups such as The Platters and the Everly Brothers and solo performers such as Johnny Mathis, Roy Orbison, and Bobby Vinton.

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

How Rapid City, South Dakota Came to Be‘The City of Presidents’

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

If Deadwood, South Dakota – the endpoint of the 109-mile Mickelson Trail on the Wilderness Voyageurs’ six-day “Badlands and Mickelson Trail” bike tour – is a shrine to the Old Wild West, Rapid City is what the American West is today, and, as I discover, capitalizes brilliantly on its proximity to Mount Rushmore in turning its tiny downtown into “The City of Presidents.”

The Wilderness-Voyageurs Badlands trip ( 800-272-4141, Wilderness-Voyageurs.com) starts in Rapid City where I cleverly organize my trip to arrive the day before, staying at the iconic, historic Alex Johnson Hotel. The hotel is renowned on its own, but become eternally famous for the part it played in Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film, “North by Northwest” – an autographed caricature of Hitchcock is behind the front desk as you check in.

Indeed, the Alex Johnson Hotel is a major attraction in itself (its red and white sign atop the building is an iconic symbol of the city) – the hotel even provides a walking tour of many artifacts and architectural features that in their own way tell the story of Rapid City, as the best historic hotels do.

See page D2

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

How Rapid City, South Dakota Came to Be‘The City of Presidents’

Continued from page D1

The Alex Johnson Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America, which means that successive owners have recognized their responsibility as stewards of these place-making hotels that harbor the story of their respective destination. To be accepted into the prestigious HHA program, which has nearly 300 members, a hotel has to faithfully maintain authenticity, sense of place and architectural integrity, be at

least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance. (More information at HistoricHotels.org)

The Alex Johnson Hotel is all of these things and more. The hotel was built by Alex Carlton Johnson (1861-1938), who was vice president of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. Johnson was unusual for his time in that he respected and admired the Native Americans who

lived in the area and developed his hotel as a tribute to the Sioux Indian Nation and honor its heritage. The structural design of the hotel integrates the heritage of the Plains Indians and the Germanic Tudor architecture representing German immigration into the Dakotas.

Construction began in 1927, coincidentally, just the day before work began on nearby Mount Rushmore. The hotel opened less than a year later, on July 1, 1928.

I follow the walking tour:

At the entrance of the hotel are sculpted Indian heads, taken from the design of Indian-head nickels and pennies.

The entrance has an “AJ” tepee symbol embedded in the entry walkway. The lobby itself is designed in Native American tradition with “Sacred Four Directions” integrated in the lobby tiles. The Lakota Sioux people believed their four sacred powers were derived from the four directions: north (white) a symbol for the “Cleansing Snow.”; east (red), the “Morning Star” which gives “Daybreak Knowledge”; south (yellow) is “Warm Winds” which replenishes the land; west (black) is “Thunder Being,” giving strength and power in times of trouble. Among the signs is a symbol that resembles a swastika, but was long used by Native Americans since prehistoric times.

Suspended with chains, the chandelier that dominates the center, is actually formed of war lances. It is in the shape of a teepee and made of concen-

tric, decreasing-sized copper-clad wooden rings. The rings are decorated in authentic Sioux patterns.

The exquisite ceiling incorporates stenciled Sioux designs between open beams. The brightly-colored patterns, originally painted with natural materials, are in the traditional “box and border” design. There are eight plaster-cast busts of Indian men that hold the beams.

The fireplace is formed of Black Hills stones. A huge rock in the keystone was selected for its resemblance to a buffalo head. The mantle is decorated with brands of local ranchers. Above the fireplace is a striking portrait of Alex Johnson in Sioux attire. Johnson was made an honorary blood brother of Chief Iron Horse in 1933, and named “Chief Red Star.” Another portrait of Johnson, in a more typical businessman pose, was commissioned by the 580 members of the Chicago Rotary Club in appreciation for his service as president (1924-25).

There are two bison heads mounted over the southwest entrance of the AJ’s Mercantile shop (American buffalo are apparently not buffalo at all, but one of two species of bison). I learn that the “buffalo” was a corruption of “boeuf,” the name the French explorers used for the animal.

The mezzanine and second floor are graced with carved wood railings and provide a gorgeous vantage point to appreciate the Indian busts, ceiling painting and chandelier,

The ballroom, which also served as a nightclub back in the day, has

The historic Alex Johnson Hotel has deep connections to Rapid City, South Dakota; its founder, Alex Johnson wanted to show his deep respect for the Sioux heritage as well as the European settlers © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

A striking portrait of Alex Johnson in Sioux attire hangs in the lobby of the hotel he built in Rapid City. Johnson was made an honorary blood brother of Chief Iron Horse in 1933, and named “Chief Red Star.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

four murals painted by Max Rheiner, an artist from Chicago, that realistically depict four well known areas of the region: Harney Peak, the Needles (which we will soon bike through on our tour), the Badlands (we will soon visit) and Spearfish Canyon.

The Lincoln Room, the site of the original restaurant, has been restored to its original elegance. The ceiling lights are original. The wallpaper custom, hand-printed paper and the same design used in Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield Illinois. An original 19th century Lincoln print is on the wall. Meeting rooms are named after the four presidents on nearby Mount Rushmore.

The hotel also offers Paddy O’Neill’s Irish Pub and Grill, named after the

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

hotel’s first guest.

There is a kind of museum of exhibits – you can see Johnson’s actual headdress and other artifacts.

But that is not all. I learn that the Alex Johnson hotel is haunted – there is an entire book of testimonials from guests who have had sightings, and recently.

Ross Goldman, the front-desk fellow who has been giving me an orientation to the hotel and to Rapid City, points me to an entire Haunting book filled with people’s letters and descriptions of encounters.

One of the rooms that is supposedly haunted, 304, was Alex Johnson’s private room where he stayed when he was in Rapid City and where he died at the age of 90. But years before,

his young daughter died in that room. People, especially children, say they have seen a child ghost In the Haunting book, I find a drawing by a little girl who stayed in room 304, who drew herself, her brother, and another girl with a dark, long dress you can see through (the ghost), dated July 5 2019. Children say they see ball rolling and that there is a knock on doors all at once.

Another haunted room, 812, was where 60 years ago, a bride on her wedding night jumped, was pushed or fell out of window. Guests say that doors open, lights go on and some say when they sleep, they feel something pressing on their chest.

The macabre legends must have appealed to Alfred Hitchcock who used the Alex Johnson Hotel in his icon-

WRITER’S CORNER

ic thriller, “North by Northwest” and stayed here through the filming of the Mount Rushmore scenes– there is an autographed photo of Hitchcock behind reception desk (the lobby seemed much larger in the movie).

Goldman (the only Goldman in South Dakota, he notes), tells me his father is from Brooklyn, and came to Rapid City for his medical residency and stayed. What a small world: Goldman’s cousins live on my block in Long Island, New York. (He says there are just 300 Jews in the entire state; they hold their Passover seder in the hotel’s ballroom).

Goldman gives me some great tips for our bike trip – especially in See page D5

Harper Lee & her “mockingbirds” live on

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Every high school student I know has had to read “To Kill a Mockingbird” at one time or another. I read “To Kill a Mockingbird” in my sophomore year of high school, during an American literature class and I was impressed by the fact that the 1960 novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1961.

The book became an instant bestseller worldwide and in 1962 a “To Kill a Mockingbird” movie was made. I thought Gregory Peck’s performance as Atticus Finch was great. Harper Lee later said that she wanted Spencer Tracy to play the part of Atticus Finch but he declined - because he was working on another film, he said - so the part was offered to Gregory Peck.

She thought he was great in the part and they became close friends. Before the 1963 Oscars where Gregory Peck was nominated for Best Actor, she sent him her father’s prized pocket watch, engraved with “To Gregory from Harper.” She remained friends with Peck until he passed away in 2003. (rd.com)

Famous author Nelle Harper Lee was born on April 28, 1926, in Monroeville, Alabama, and she died on February 19, 2016, in her home town at the age of 89. Her first name, Nelle, was her grandmother’s name spelled backwards and the name she was called by all of her friends and relatives.

Lee chose to use the name “Harper Lee” as a pen name rather than deal with having her first name Nelle be mistaken as “Nellie.” (biography.com)

She got her middle name, Harper, from Dr. Harper, the family obstetrician who had helped them. The youngest of four children, she grew up as a tomboy in a small town. Her father was a lawyer, a member of the Alabama state legislature and also owned part of the local newspaper. Her mother was a

homemaker.

One of her closest childhood friends was another future writer, Truman Capote (then known as Truman Persons). He was sent to stay with aunts who lived next door to the Lees. He was two years older than Harper Lee and they wrote together after Lee’s father bought the children a typewriter to share.

While enrolled at Monroe County High School, Lee developed an interest in English literature. After graduating from high school in 1944, she attended the then all-female Huntingdon College in Montgomery for a year and transferred to the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa where she studied law and wrote for the university newspaper. She did not complete her law degree.

After her first year in the law studies program, Lee told her family that writing, not the law, interested her. She went to Oxford University in England that summer as an exchange student. Returning to her law studies that fall, Lee dropped out after the first semester. She soon moved north to follow her dreams to become a writer. (biography. com)

When Harper Lee arrived in New York City in 1949, she was 23 years old. She struggled to pay the rent for several years, working as an airline reservation agent and writing fiction in her spare time.

While in the city, Lee saw her old friend Truman Capote who was quickly becoming a famous writer. She was also good friends with the Broadway composer and lyricist Michael Martin Brown and his wife, Joy.

The Browns gave Harper Lee an unusual Christmas present in 1956 at their home on East 50th Street. They handed her a note that said, “You have one year off from your job to write whatever you please. Merry Christmas.”

Delighted with this financial gift from her friends, Lee quit her job and dedicated herself to writing. The Browns also helped her find an agent, Maurice Crain. He was able to get publisher J.B. Lippincott Company interested in her work.

Working with editor Tay Hohoff, Lee worked on a manuscript set in a small fictitious Alabama town called Maycomb, which was similar to her home town of Monroeville and it eventually became her novel “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

The story was about Atticus Finch, the lawyer who took on prejudice and injustice in their small town. Atticus was Scout and Jem’s father, Dill was the boy next door (based loosely on Truman Capote) and Arthur “Boo” Radley was the odd neighbor down the block who became a hero to them all.

The kids spent time exploring their neighborhood including the Radley’s house which was suspected of being a haunted house.

Harper Lee wrote slowly and often grew frustrated with her progress. She said she spent six to 12 hours a day at her desk, and she would produce one manuscript page of text per day. One night while discussing her story with her editor, Lee threw her manuscript out the window and into the snow. Her editor told her to go outside and get the pages which Lee did. (wikipedia.org)

Harper Lee split her years between Monroeville and New York City until 2007 when due to failing health she moved back to Alabama full-time. Prior to that she had an apartment on the Upper East Side.

Lee liked going to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and rooting for the Mets. She also enjoyed the occasional trip to Atlantic City to play the slots. Lee always took Amtrak between Alabama and New York because she was leery of

airplanes. (rd.com)

Whenever she was at home in Alabama, Lee enjoyed going on fishing trips with friends, going to football games, feeding the ducks and geese at a local pond, and sharing meals with her sister, Alice Lee, who was 15 years older and was a lawyer.

Alice and Harper Lee didn’t own a TV - and they preferred to live a simple life in a 1-story ranch house without air conditioning, computers, cell phones and a washing machine - but they enjoyed going to their neighbor’s house to watch TV and movies on Netflix.

For her writing and correspondence Lee used a manual typewriter. With the money she earned from “To Kill a Mockingbird” she gave many secret donations to the Methodist church in Monroeville and to charities.

A very private person, Harper Lee rarely gave media interviews, especially later in life. Harper Lee never married and Alice once said about Harper, “Books are the things she cares about.”

The first book she ever wrote, “Go Set a Watchman,” was written before “To Kill a Mockingbird” but wasn’t published until July 2015.

The title comes from Isaiah 21:6: “For thus hath the Lord said unto me, Go, set a watchman, let him declare what he seeth.” It refers to Jean Louise Finch’s view of her father, Atticus Finch, as the moral compass (“watchman”) of Maycomb and has a theme of disillusionment as she discovers the extent of the bigotry in her home community.

The manuscript was stored in a deposit box by Alice Lee, who acted as Harper Lee’s lawyer and protected her much-cherished privacy.

It was discovered by Tonja Carter

See page D5

BY TOM MARGENAU

Let’s Just Reach Into the Mailbag

I have just returned from a six-week trip to Australia and New Zealand. (I met more than a few Australian and New Zealand pensioners on this trip, and I’m thinking of a future column comparing their Social Security systems with ours.)

But right now, I’ve got hundreds of backed-up emails to answer. So, for today’s column, instead of concentrating on a single issue, I’m going to just reach into that electronic mailbag and answer whichever question I pull out.

Q: My husband recently died. I am 60 years old and working full time, making about $70,000 per year. Should I file for Social Security now? Or should I wait until I retire, which will probably be in three years?

A: First of all, you can’t file for Social Security now. Anyone who is under full retirement age (currently 66) and working full time isn’t eligible for any kind of Social Security.

But once you retire, you will have some options. It sounds like you’ll be about 63 at the time. At that age, you could file for reduced widows benefits. You’d get about 86% of your husband’s normal retirement benefit. Then, at 66, you can switch to 100% of your own retirement rate. Or you could wait until 70 and switch to 132% of your full benefit.

On the other hand, depending on the money amounts involved, it might be more advantageous for you to file for reduced retirement benefits when you retire and then switch to a 100% widows rate when you reach age 66. (There is no bonus for delaying widows benefits beyond full retirement age, so there would be no advantage to waiting after age 66 to file for widows benefits.)

And just so other readers know, this option of starting one benefit at a reduced rate and later switching to another benefit at a higher rate is available only to widows and widowers.

Q: I don’t understand this. Why should a woman who has been married to her husband for only 10 years get the same widows rate that I do? My husband and I were married for 40 years. I think the benefit should be prorated based on the number of years you were married.

A: I’ve heard arguments similar to yours before. I’m not really sure why ideas like yours have never seriously been considered. I’ve got a hunch it would be kind of messy to calculate and administer such prorated benefits.

I will share this bit of trivia from my Social Security past. When I started working for the Social Security Administration in the early 1970s, the law said a divorced woman had to be married for at least 20 years to get benefits from her ex-husband’s Social Security.

Sometime in the 1980s, following pressure from lots of women in this country, Congress lowered the duration of marriage rule to 10 years. I remember watching Congressional hearings on the issue in which the women testifying essentially said: “Being married to that jerk for 10 years was long enough. I deserve all of that bum’s Social Security for all the !@#$% I had to put up with.” (The actual language they used was much more polite and tactful. But you get my drift.)

Q: I am 66 and plan to wait until age 70 to file for my Social Security. My wife is 62 and eligible for a smaller Social Security check on her own account. If she takes a reduced retirement benefit now, will that reduce her future widows benefit on my account?

A: No. Only two things affect your wife’s eventual widows benefits on your record. One is whether or not you took reduced benefits. If you did, that reduction carries over to her future widows rate. But you’re not doing that, so it’s not an issue.

The other thing that affects your wife’s eventual widows benefit is her age at the time she files for such benefits. Assuming she is over her full retirement age when that happens, she will get 100% of whatever you were getting at the time of death. And that will include the 32% bonus that is going to be added to your retirement check for waiting until age 70 to file.

And one more note about that 32% bonus: As I said, a widow shares in that bonus. But a wife does not. In other words, while you are alive, any spousal benefits she might be due on your record will be based on your age 66 benefit rate. But after you die, her widows rate will be based on your age 70 rate.

Q: I am 42 years old and normally would never be interested in your column or other Social Security matters. But I’ve just learned that I may not have long to live. I have a wife and two young kids. What will happen to them from a Social Security perspective after I am gone?

A: So sorry to hear about your health prognosis. But maybe I can help ease some of your worries with this information.

After you die, each of your children will get a monthly Social Security check equal to 75% of your full Social Security benefit rate. The benefit computation formula is way too complicated to explain in this short space. But essentially, they figure your benefit as though you had turned full retirement age at the time you die. And again, each child gets 75% of that every month. And they will get those benefits until they are 18 years old.

The checks will come in your wife’s

name on behalf of the kids. If your wife is working, she won’t get her own survivor benefit. But if she is not working, she might be due a small monthly amount on your record. The rules are too messy to explain, but there is a maximum amount that can be paid to the family of a deceased parent. The two survivor benefits paid to your kids won’t reach that maximum. But usually, adding a third beneficiary (in this

case, your wife) would cross that maximum threshold. So, she wouldn’t get a full 75% benefit, but she might be due something.

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

COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

Harper Lee & her “mockingbirds” live on

Continued from page D3

(who was Alice’s colleague and Harper’s lawyer since her sister’s death) attached to the original manuscript of “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Lee was said to be “delighted” by the reappearance of the manuscript. (telegraph.co.uk)

My favorite character in the book and movie “To Kill a Mockingbird” is Scout, whose real name is Jean Louise Finch, who is a tomboy with lots of energy who likes exploring her neighborhood and discovering things. Scout’s curiosity about life keeps things interesting.

The character of Atticus Finch is based on Harper Lee’s dad who was also a lawyer. Atticus demonstrates great character throughout the book, strives to set a good example for his children, and teaches Jem and Scout to treat everyone equally.

I don’t remember ever discussing in English class what the title means. I had to stop long and hard and think about it. There are references in the book to mockingbirds.

The longest quotation about the book’s title appears in Chapter 10,

when Scout explains:

“’Remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.’ That was the only time I ever heard Atticus say it was a sin to do something, and I asked Miss Maudie about it.

“‘Your father’s right,’ she said. ‘Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy … but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.’”

Who is the symbolic mockingbird? Later in the book, Scout explains to Atticus that hurting their reclusive neighbor Boo Radley would be “sort of like shootin’ a mockingbird.”

Mockingbirds aren’t the only birds in the book. Finch, their last name, is a small bird. Like mockingbirds, they are also songbirds.

A classic of American literature, “To Kill a Mockingbird” has been translated into more than 40 languages and more than a million copies are sold each year.

In November 2007, President George W. Bush presented Lee with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her “outstanding contribution to America’s literary tradition” at a ceremony at the White House. (biography. com)

“’To Kill a Mockingbird’ has influenced the character of our country for the better,” President Bush said during the presentation. “It’s been a gift to the entire world. As a model of good writing and humane sensibility, this book will be read and studied forever.”

The question of good and evil is a major theme throughout “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Atticus Finch has experienced and understood evil without losing his faith in the human capacity for goodness, but the book prompts

each one of us to examine this – and to choose to do good things throughout our lives.

Harper Lee once said about writing: “I would advise anyone who aspires to a writing career, that before developing his talent he would be wise to develop a thick hide.”

“Any writer worth his salt writes to please himself ... It’s a self-exploratory operation that is endless. An exorcism of not necessarily his demon, but of his divine discontent.”

Quotes From “To Kill a Mockingbird”:

“It was times like these when I thought my father, who hated guns and had never been to any wars, was the bravest man who ever lived.”

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view ... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.”

“You just hold your head high and keep those fists down. No matter what anybody says to you, don’t you let ‘em get your goat. Try fightin’ with your head for a change.”

“Before I can live with other folks I’ve got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience.”

How Rapid City, South Dakota Came

Deadwood City, where he tells me to be sure to visit the cemetery where Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried, and where there is also a Jewish section.

And he orients me to Rapid City: Memorial Park was created after a major flood in 1972 collapsed the dam, in which 238 people died (signs in the park tell the story), leveling the poorest section of city. He tells me where to get the best buffalo burger (Thirsty’s).

And so I am off to discover Rapid City.

City of Presidents

Rapid City makes the absolute most of whatever it has, especially its proximity to Mount Rushmore, the iconic American monument with the carvings of faces of four presidents. The architecture except for a small historic district is mostly nondescript, but there is sheer brilliance in that 20 years ago, an artist began an ambitious program to have almost life-sized sculptures of every president on every corner of the two downtown boulevards, Main Street and St. Joseph’s Boulevard. This turned Rapid City into “The City of Presidents.”

It is fascinating and fun to go in

search of them (they aren’t in chronological or alphabetical order). Six artists produced the 43 sculptures, beginning in 2000:Obama’s statue, depicting the Election night scene when he came out holding his daughter’s hand, only went up a couple of months before; Lincoln is also portrayed with his son, Tad; FDR is shown standing at a podium with radio mics; Taft looking amazingly svelte, shown as the first president to throw out the first pitch at a baseball game. There is a self-guided walking tour and a Presidential Scavenger Hunt. It is really fun to try to see all of the presidents. What is most interesting is how these significant personages are set in such ordinary circumstance on nondescript small-town America street corners.

A notable exception to the presidents is a bust, “Mitakuye Oyasin” (“We are all related”) by DC Lamphere, from a drawing by Richard Under Baggage, representing “hope for reconciliation, dignity and respect for all the human race.” The earth is in the shape of a hoop or circle of life; crossed pipes represent world peace; the eagle symbolizes all flying creatures, and communication with Tunka Sila; wisdom and the healing arts are represented by a

grizzly bear, and a long and productive life is symbolized by a turtle. “The bison reminds us of our ancestors’ healthy lifestyles, free from famine, and also of the white Buffalo Calf Woman who brought us the pipe.”

Another marked contrast to the presidents on every other corner is outside a remarkable shop, Prairie Edge: “Hunkayapi” also was created by local artist Dale Lamphere. The statue was installed in 2008, replacing another bronze statue, “He is, they are” by Glenna Goodacre, which depicted a Native man with his hands tied behind his back, reflecting the artist’s feeling that when Native Americans were put on reservations, they would never be able to live according their heritage. “Some people in the area Native American community felt this statue was degrading to Native Americans. We regret that,” Prairie Edge owner Ray Hillenbrand told the Rapid City Journal at the time.

The new statue, depicting a Lakota naming ceremony, is intended to reflect the warmth in Lakota families, the wisdom of a Lakota elder and the teaching of the Lakota heritage to the next generation.

Prairie Edge is one of the most

fantastic Native American shops anywhere. It is almost a museum, with numerous contemporary Native artists who have their own displays, biography and museum-quality art (I learn about quillwork). There is also clothing, including Pendleton & Pilson, blankets and housewares, books and music, tee shirts and souvenirs and yes items popular in tourist shops on sale, like an old-fashioned mercantile store and a

page D6

&

Presidents’ GOING PLACES,

How Rapid City, South Dakota Came to Be ‘The City

C ontinued from page D5

Sioux Trading Post.

The shop contains a fine art Plains Indian Gallery, a Buffalo Room with bison leather furnishings. There is also the Italian glass bead library boasting the world’s largest selection of glass beads, with 2,600 different styles and colors, from the same Venetian guild that supplied fur traders in the 19th century used for trade, including used in trade for the island of Manhattan; after the Societa Veneziana Conterie closed in 1992, Prairie Edge bought the remaining inventory of 70 tons of beads. (Prairie Edge, 606 Main Street, Rapid City SD 57701, 800-541-2388, 605-342-3086, www.prairieedge.com).

I think about what Goldman told me about continued tension between Native Americans and the “settlers” (for lack of a better word), “Other places are more assimilated. South Dakota has nine Indian reservations. The two largest reservations – Pine Ridge, Rosebud – make Appalachia look like Beverly Hills,” he told me. His remarks echo for me later when I visit the Crazy Horse Memorial on our Mickelson Trail ride.

Prairie Edge is housed in an 1886 building in Italianate style that began as the L. Morris Dry Goods and Clothing store with a dentist’s office on the second floor and rooms to rent. Known as the Clower Building, it is most famously remembered as the Jack Clower Saloon (1895-1917), a cowboy bar ion its day. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in Rapid City.

What you do expect in an open-carry state that still prides itself as being the wild west, are the gun shops. There is the biggest gun shop I’ve ever seen, First Stop Gun & Coin. (I am amazed at how heavy rifles are; there are “My First Rifle,” child-sized like starter violins, and some pink and decorated rifles geared for women.

I wander over to Main Street Square, with a spray fountain, Astroturf and stage for performances, and public restroom.

There are all manner of restaurants you wouldn’t expect in a place that calls itself “City of Presidents” – Nepali, Mexican (considering how far from the Mexican border we are). Goldman has recommended Thirsty’s, which looks like a pool hall, as having the best buffalo burger in town. I opt for the Firehouse Brewing Company in the historic firehouse next door to Prairie Edge. I take note of a large 1883 photo mural depicting the store that had stood on the site with store names of Jewish proprietors: Herrmann Treber & Goldberg Groceries, Liquors and Cigars Wholesale.

There is art just about everywhere

of

in Rapid City – a dark, narrow alley is decorated with curated street art.

Back at the Alex Johnson Hotel, I go up to the Vertex Sky Bar on the 10th floor to take in the sunset (the Alex Johnson hotel is the third tallest building in South Dakota). Originally, there was a solarium here and an observation tower that was later used by KOTA radio station. Today, it is an upscale

“Hunkayapi” outside the Prairie Edge store, depicting a Lakota naming ceremony, is intended to reflect the warmth in Lakota families, the wisdom of a Lakota elder and the teaching of the Lakota heritage to the next generation © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

rooftop bar exclusively for members and hotel guests. It provides a wonderful view for the sunset behind the hills.

The Alex Johnson Hotel today is independently owned by the Bradsky family of Rapid City, acquired in 2008 on the hotel’s 80th anniversary and refurbished with respect and sense of stewardship for its historic significance and importance to the city. (The family owns several properties under the Liv Hospitality banner, in Deadwood and Rapid City, including Cadillac Jack’s and Tin Lizzie’s in Deadwood and Watiki water park in Rapid City. (www. LivHotelGroup.com)

Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton, 523 Sixth Street

Rapid City SD 57701, 605-342-1210, alexjohnson.com.

More information at Visit Rapid City, 512 Main Street, Rapid City SD 57701, 800-487-3223, 605-718-8484, www. VisitRapidCity.com.

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

With better planning, I would have also plugged into my itinerary a visit to Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. The site provides an opportunity to explore the Minuteman II system’s role as a nuclear deterrent during the Cold War and visit sites rarely seen by civilians while in use, but that nevertheless loomed large on the geo-political landscape, and in these tense times, be reminded about what a threat nuclear weapons are.

I first became aware of the site watching an extraordinary documentary, “The Man who Saved the

World,” about Stanislav Petrov, a former lieutenant colonel of the Soviet Air Defense Forces and his role in preventing the 1983 Soviet nuclear false alarm incident from leading to nuclear holocaust. Now, with Trump and Putin at odds over renegotiating a nuclear arms treaty while boasting about new weapons, it is more important than ever to be reminded of how quickly things can go astronomically wrong.

The park consists of three sites along a fifteen mile stretch of Interstate 90 in western South Dakota: the  Visitor Center,  Launch Control Facility Delta-01 and the  Delta-09 Missile Silo.The  Visitor Center is located immediately north of I-90, exit 131. The two historic sites which make up the park are four miles (Launch Control Facility Delta-01) and 15 miles (Launch Facility Delta-09) from the Visitor Center. No public transporta-

tion systems serve the park.  A variety of maps are available to assist you visit and historic understanding. – passed Wall on I-90 (visitor center at exit 131). All tours of the Delta01 Launch Control Facility require advanced reservations. Reservations can be made on-line or by phone at 605717-7629. (www.nps.gov/mimi/index. htm , https://www.nps.gov/mimi/ planyourvisit/directions.htm)

More information from South Dakota Department of Tourism, 605773-3301, https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/

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

REAL ESTATE WATCH

Waround rail trails like the Eric Canal in New York, Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania, and Katy Trail in Missouri.

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/ karen-rubin & 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

What will the effect of the Coronavirus be on the economy?

ell, I am quite sure you have seen the current effects of the Coronavirus (COVID19) (unless your head is in the sand and you don’t watch TV or read, which I wouldn’t be surprised as to how many are clueless as what is really going on!) from China and its spread throughout other countries and its slow creep around the globe to our shores.

This is obviously an extremely serious and dangerous calamity the most serious of events in recent memory and the spread appears to be occurring and hasn’t slowed down. Hopefully, it will not have as great effect on the U.S. population going forward, but the present situation looks quite dire and challenging, due to the fact there is no vaccine, therefore no cure at this point in time. However, at 3:49pm Tuesday, Feb 25 a report came over the newswires from CNBC and I quote:

“The coronavirus outbreak that’s shuttered commerce across China will likely become a global pandemic, a top U.S. health official said, adding that it’s just a matter of time before the outbreak starts spreading in the U.S. “Current global circumstances suggest it’s likely this virus will cause a pandemic,” Anne Schuchat, principal deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told reporters at a news briefing.”

“It’s not so much a question of if this will happen anymore, but rather more a question of when this will happen and how many people in this country will become infected and how many of those will develop the severe or more

complicated disease,” she added.

Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar added: “We can’t hermetically seal off the United States.” Azar confirmed four new cases of the virus from repatriated cruise ship passengers, bringing the total in the U.S. to 57.

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

This is much more troubling since China has shut down so many manufacturing businesses that have a direct correlation to the U.S. economy as well as the global economy. As I have read and heard in the past, when China sneezes, the rest of the world catches a cold which comes from the widely used saying dating back to Austrian politician Klemens von Metternich (1773 – 1859) who, at the time of Napoleon, penned the phrase “When Paris sneezes, Europe catches a cold.” Economists and politicians have amended Metternich’s words to reflect America’s dominant role in global economics since the start of the Industrial Revolution. Now it is used in relation to China and its’ global economy.

Our stock market has lost several thousand points in just the last two days from its high of 29,557 on February 15, 2020. If this continues, what will the effect be on real estate? As the Chinese economy falters, having a direct and indirect effect on the U.S and other economies, real estate will be affected too! All products and manufactured goods from China have been reduced to a standstill and most sectors

of the global economy have been affected. So if this continues without a usable vaccine, when will the layoffs begin and multiply and have a tremendous impact on our economy as the business continues to slow due to lack of materials, products, and manufactured goods from China?

Real estate is an integral and major component to our productivity because some many items are purchased abroad, especially from our major partner, China with relation to the sale, investment, purchase, rental and leasing of residential and commercial properties. Stoves, washers, dryers, microwaves, air conditioners, building materials, and so many other commodities are related to real estate transactions, building, and development, renovations, repairs, etc. and when those items are not available, things slow down and worst could cause a beginning of a recession, but hopefully not, if a vaccine can be created and immediately be dispersed to all countries, especially where this potential pandemic began in Wuhan, China. Many open-air seafood markets were selling live and freshly slaughtered animals that were sold to the public, whereby easily transferring the virus to humans who had worked there and the public at large. However, a study published in The Lancet on January 30, 2020, suspects that some scientists believe it originally had been transferred from bats. An antidote vaccine is being worked on and possibly in six

weeks, it will be produced. But in the meantime, no one really can predict the exact amount of time it will take and the viruses’ day to day effects on the global economy which is somewhat predictable and very apparent. It is wide-reaching and is currently hurting business and will continue for the foreseeable future and no one knows when things will actually improve. One thing for sure, the impact on real estate will be detrimental, but hopefully not, but we will see what transpires over the next month or two and I will let you know what the statistics show over the near term. Maybe it’s time to sell and not wait to try to anticipate and determine the effect on the value of your property. We shall see what the future holds for all of us!

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 Great Neck. He has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute and a Certified International Property Specialist. Receive regular “free” updates of sold homes in your area and a “free” Comparative Market Analysis” of what your home would sell for in today’s market or search on: WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com If you would like to receive a digital copy or a printed copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality Or “Our Seller’s Guide for “Things to Consider When Selling Your Home” just email or snail me (regular mail) with your name, email and cell number.

He can be reached by email, at:Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com, or by cell: (516) 647-4289.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION IN GREAT NECK, NY is seeking sealed bids for sales and installation of security related enhancements. This is a New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services grant funded project. The projects includes (i) installation of one or more: technology (such as CCTV access control, alarms, sensors, X-ray machines, magnetometer), security film, doors, locks, windows, bollards, planters, barriers, lighting, fencing, privacy fencing, gates, (ii) training programs, and (iii) security personnel. Bids will be accepted until 5:00 PM on March 13, 2020. Work is expected to commence by April 1, 2020 and be completed by August 1, 2020. All interested vendors will be required to demonstrate preliminary qualifications and licensing for this work, acknowledge receipt of the proposal documents, and provide company name, business address, telephone, fax and email address, and primary contact name. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of surveillance and security, adherence to projected work schedule, prior experience, references, and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at grants02262020@gmail.com

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NOVENAS/PRAYERS

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine of Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin assist me in this necessity. Oh Star of the Sea help me and show herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth I beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succor me this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to Thee (three times). Oh Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. This prayer must be said for three days and after three days your request will be granted. The prayer must be published. Grateful thanks. (T.Y.)

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ATTENTION

Did you work at the Kollsman Instrument Corp. in Syosset, NY? We would like to speak with anyone that worked at this location between 1950 and 1980

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MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

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

TURN YOUR TREASURES INTO CASH!

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Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-SilverMirrors-Lamps-ArtworkChinaCrystal-Collectibles

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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

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

MARKETPLACE

PRIVACY HEDGES SPRING

BLOW OUT SALE. 6’ Arborvitae (cedar) reg. $179 NOW $80 Beautiful, nursery grown. FREE installation/ FREE delivery. Limited supply! ORDER NOW! 518-536-1367

www.lowcosttreefarm.com

VINTAGE SHOP

Cool old stuff in Vintage Shop for home and boat. Great Prices! Wilson’s Dry Dock. For info call: 516-662-2821

128 Shore Road, Glen Cove, NY

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

FREON WANTED: WE PAY

CA$H for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call 312-361-0601 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com

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

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

RARE RECORD COLLECTIONS WANTED: Autographs, memorabilia, obscure artists. All sizes / categories. House-calls, drop-offs. All About Records 396 Rockaway Ave #E Valley Stream Charles 516-945-7705 groupssound@aol.com

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com

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

AUTO FOR SALE

MAZDA CX 9 2012 GRAND TOURING EDITION

79,000 Miles White w/Beige Interior Fully Loaded & Garaged Asking $12,500. Call Michael 516-510-9666

AUTOS WANTED

AUTO BUYERS! We visit you. Highest cash paid. Or donate, tax deduct + cash. DMV#1303199. Please call Luke 516-VAN-CARS OR 516-297-2277

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REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

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GARDEN CITY BORDER

APARTMENT: Avail 4/1 NO FEE. Huge, Bright 1BR, 1Bath Apt $1,635.00 + Electric. Gated Parking available. Laundry Room, Air Conditioning, Hardwood Floors, LIRR. www.gcbapts.com Voice or text: 516-524-6965

VACATION RENTAL

ATLANTIS, BAHAMAS TIME SHARE RENTAL

July 4-11,2020 Corner Unit 2BR, 2BA Lockout Sleep 8 on the Atlantis Marina. 7 nights

$3,200

1BR Premium Unit $1,750 1BR Deluxe Unit $1,550

For more info call: 516-742-3176

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Rare Opportunity

3 Bedroom Penthouse

Overlooking GC Golf Club, Historic St. Pauls and Middle School.

Near LIRR & Town Price Upon Request No Brokers Please Jim 516-334-1111

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Estates Brick, 5 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Wood Floors.

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OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE

SEBASTIAN FLORIDA (East Coast)

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We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship

Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

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STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

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

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Good for Your Gut NUTRICIAN NEWS

BY CHARLYN FARGO

fiber include pears, plums, citrus fruits, oats and oat-based products, shitake mushrooms and seaweed, as well as psyllium found in cereals or Metamucil.

RECIPE

Here’s another reason to eat your fruits and vegetables the Mediterranean way. In a recent study, researchers found the Mediterranean diet is not only good for your heart but also good for your gut. And a healthy gut means a healthy life.

What is a Mediterranean diet? It is a diet high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, olive oil and fish and low in red meat and saturated fats. The new study, published in the journal Gut, finds that older adults who eat a Mediterranean diet tend to have more types of gut bacteria linked with healthy aging.

In the study, researchers from the University College Cork in Cork, Ireland, tracked how the Mediterranean diet affected the gut microbiomes of more than 600 people, ages 65 to 79, living in France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and the U.K. Gut microbiomes were assessed before and after 12 months of either eating their usual diet or a Mediterranean diet. They found beneficial changes in participants who ate the Mediterranean diet: more diversity in their microbiome, which is thought to be healthier, and a rise in gut microbiota associated with keeping people physically and mentally stronger as they age.

The study also found an increase in gut bacteria that produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids and a decline in bacteria that help make certain bile acids. Overproduction of those bile acids has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer, insulin resistance (a precursor to diabetes), fatty liver disease and cell damage.

The bottom line? What you choose to eat makes a difference. Choose more fruits, veggies, nuts, beans, olive oil and fish, and save red meat for special occasions.

Q and A

Q: Do beans help lower high cholesterol?

Taco night always makes for fun family dinners. For a variation on the traditional ground beef taco, try this BBQ Chicken and Black Bean Tacos recipe. It’s from Cooking Light.

BBQ CHICKEN AND BLACK BEAN TACOS

2 teaspoons olive oil

2/3 cup diced red bell pepper

3/4 cup frozen whole-kernel sweet corn, thawed

3/4 cup canned unsalted black beans, rinsed and drained

12 ounces skinless, boneless rotisserie chicken breast, shredded (about 2.5 cups)

1/3 cup barbecue sauce

10 (6-inch) corn tortillas

1/2 cup plain 2% reduced-fat Greek yogurt

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add bell pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in corn and black beans; cook until

warmed through, 2-3 minutes. Set aside. Place shredded chicken and barbecue sauce in a microwave-safe bowl. Mix until thoroughly coated. Loosely cover, and microwave on high for 1 minute. Warm tortillas according to package directions. Place 3 tablespoons chicken in center of each tortilla; top each with 3 tablespoons pepper mixture. Place yogurt, cilantro, lime juice and salt in a bowl. Whisk to combine. Dollop each taco with 1 tablespoon yogurt mixture. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serves 5 (serving size: 2 tacos).

Per serving: 331 calories; 27 grams protein; 45 grams carbohydrates; 6 grams fiber; 6 grams sugars (1 gram added); 7 grams fat; 465 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

A: Beans and other foods high in viscous soluble fiber, such as apples and barley, can be helpful for lowering blood cholesterol levels. Here’s how it works, according to Nicola McKeown in the Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter: “This type of fiber thickens and forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. The gel traps bile acids which are needed for the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. The trapped bile acids are eliminated from our bodies. Once bile acids are excreted, this signals our liver to make more bile acids, which requires cholesterol, thus leaving less circulating cholesterol available to be incorporated into unhealthy low-density lipoproteins.”

And it’s not just beans and apples. Other foods high in soluble

Dear Carrie: I’ve always been a good saver, and now at 29 with a steady job, I have a fairly sizable savings account. My friends are getting into investing, but it seems like such a risk and makes me uncomfortable. Isn’t it enough to just keep saving? -- A Reader

Dear Reader: Being a good saver certainly puts you ahead of the game. And having a solid savings account is an important step toward financial security. So first, congratulations on that. But is saving enough? For some things, yes. For other things, no. While saving is about accumulating money, investing is about growing your money. And that can make a huge difference in your financial future.

But let’s take a step back and talk a bit more about the what and why of each.

Saving Sets the Stage

Basically, saving is putting money aside for future use. You can think of it as money you have left over once you’ve covered your essential expenses. Or, ideally, you can make saving a line item on your monthly budget so that saving itself is one of your essentials. But however you look at it, having that money tucked away will help you pay for the things you want above

You’re Saving. Should You Be Investing, Too ASK CARRIE

BY CARRIE SCHWAB-POMERANTZ

and beyond your daily expenses, and cover you in case of emergency.

And that’s all good. Having a sizable savings account can help you stay out of debt and give you the cushion you need should you face an unexpected illness, job loss or expense. Plus, when you want something special like a week’s vacation, you’ve got the money.

But here’s the catch. Most people keep their savings in a bank account. The upside is that it’s easily accessible and safe; the downside is that it won’t earn very much. Money in savings accounts is not likely to keep pace with inflation, which means the money you have saved today can actually lose buying power over time. That’s why just saving isn’t enough.

Investing Creates the Action

Investing, on the other hand, is about putting your money to work for you with the goal of growing it over time. Here’s an example. If you were to put $3,000 each year in a savings account and earn 1%, at the end of 20 years, you’d have about $67,000. If you were to invest that same amount of money and get an average 6% return over the same time period, you’d have nearly $117,000. The sooner you start saving, the less you may need to save

because your money gets to work that much sooner. The more you save, the more you have to invest -- and the more those returns can add up.

Of course, as you say, investing involves risk. And the stock market in particular will have its ups and downs. But there are ways to mitigate that risk. The key is to choose a broad range of investments in stocks, bonds and cash based on your risk tolerance and time horizon, and to never put all your money in one particular stock.

One other important factor is time. To protect yourself against market downturns, a long-term approach is essential. At your age, you have time to keep your money in the market and ride out the inevitable market lows. The trick is to stick with it through those lows, keeping your focus on the potential for long-term gains.

Each Plays an Important Role in Your Financial Life

Saving and investing aren’t mutually exclusive. How they work together depends on your goals and when you think you’ll need the money. Are you saving for a vacation or a down payment on a home? Money for more short-term goals is best kept out of the stock market. Retirement savings?

That’s another story.

Here’s a possible saving/investing scenario:

-- Keep enough cash to cover three to six months of essential expenses in an easily accessible savings account, money market account or short-term CDs (certificates of deposit).

-- If you think you’ll need your money within the next five years, avoid investing in the stock market. Stick with cash and bond mutual funds and ETFs (exchange-traded funds).

-- Include broad-based stock mutual funds or ETFs when you know you won’t need the money for at least five to seven years. This is especially relevant for retirement savings.

Get started investing -- now

You’ve got the savings covered, but don’t stop there. I understand how investing can be a bit daunting, so take it step by step. If you have a 401(k), that’s a great place to start. Talk to friends and family members. There’s lots of online information available, and many financial companies offer no-cost, automated assistance that can help you build a portfolio that reflects your personal goals and timeframe. Learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to seek professional advice and

ask questions.

I feel excited for you. At your age and with your savings habit firmly established, you have a great opportunity to really focus on building your future. It’s your moment. Grab it.

Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER(tm), is president of Charles Schwab Foundation and author of “The Charles Schwab Guide to Finances After Fifty,” available in bookstores nationwide. Read more at http://schwab.com/ book. You can email Carrie at askcarrie@schwab.com. This column is no substitute for an individualized recommendation, tax, legal or personalized investment advice. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, consult with a qualified tax advisor, CPA, financial planner or investment manager. To find out more about Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2020 CHARLES SCHWAB & CO., INC. MEMBER SIPC. DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS SYNDICATE INC. (#0120-0W9J)

LEGAL

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court

Nassau County

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF OWS REMIC TRUST 2015-1, Plaintiff, vs. KRINAN JAGDA, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly filed on January 16, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the CCP (Calendar Control Part Courtroom) in the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 24, 2020 at 11:30 a.m., premises known as 201 Miller Place, Syosset, NY 11791. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 12, Block 457 and Lot 20. Approximate amount of judgment is $643,587.14 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 9034/13. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee's attorney, or the Referee.

Joseph Ray Bjarnson, Esq.,

Referee

Roach & Lin, P.C. FKA

Peter T. Roach & Associates, P.C., 6901 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 240, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

SYO 4346

4X 02/21,28,03/06,13

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF SRK INSURANCE AGENCY LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 02/07/2020 Office located in NASSAU County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 17 humphrey Dr Syosset NY 11791. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

SYO 4347

6X 02/28,03/06,13,20,27,04/03

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 MARCH 12, 2020, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 20-106

SYOSSET

HUMA MUZAFFAR:

Variance to erect 6 ft. high fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard than permitted by Ordinance. SW/ cor. of Mitchell Ln. & Belmont Cir.., a/k/a 4 Mitchell Lane, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 20-107

SYOSSET

KRYSTYA KREKEL:

Variance to construct new dwelling on sub-divided lot having less width of lot at front property line, width of lot from front yard setback to rear yard and average side/front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. PARCEL

A NW/ cor. of Roosevelt Ave. & Richmond St., a/k/a 62 Roosevelt Avenue, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 20-108

SYOSSET

KRYSTYA KREKEL:

Variance to construct new dwelling on sub-divided lot having less width of lot at front property line and width of lot from front yard setback to rear yard than permitted by Ordinance. PARCEL B

N/s/o Roosevelt Ave., 50.9 ft. W/o Richmond St., a/k/a 62 Roosevelt Avenue, Syosset, NY

MARCH 2, 2020

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

SYO 4349

1X 03/06

Environmental concerns aired

From page 1

request for Drucker to publish and/or make the communications he’s received about the testing results, and to follow up he’s corresponded with State Senator Jim Gaughran, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, New York State Assemblyman representing the 15th district Michael A. Montesano and members of the media in addition to cc’ing Dr. Rogers and the Syosset Board of Education.

“Thank you for your attention to this public health matter. We have had no communication on this from the responsible party, the Town of Oyster Bay, and the public is deserving of the current status results. It has been almost two years since the (May 1, 2018) hearing. Legislator Drucker, can you please provide an update to your post on your Legislative page in which you had posted this letter to Ms. Gallagher?” McKenna wrote on February 21.

McKenna questioned the board of education on February 10 if State Senator Gaughran and County Legislator Drucker had reached out to the district and asked for district assistance in pressing the DEC for testing results.

“You have all seen what’s going on with the Northport Middle School (closed in late January after environmental firm PW Grosser Consulting, Inc. found high levels of benzene, a chemical that has been linked to causing cancers of blood cells, such as leukemia present in its septic tanks). I will ask Syosset’s school board trustees to take the testing for the site extremely seriously. Dr. Rogers and school trustees were present at SHS when dozens and dozens of residents commented to the Town Board. Just about everyone there knew someone who’s had cancer or a neurological disease, and the impetus was clear to have independent testing of the site done prior to any development that would take place. We are still trying to prevent any health issues for district students within the vicinity,” he said.

At the Board meeting, Superintendent of Schools Rogers explained that no news is

apparently good news, and it’s likely hand-in-hand with the halt for any development on the site.

“We (the district) received a NYSDEC letter on March 22, 2019 and it did state that preliminary testing results didn’t show any cause for concern. We have not received communications from the NYSDEC since then, but we have asked and they have assured our consultant (Walden Environmental Engineering) that if anything changed from that statement we are relying on, that they would let us know. So since they have not let us know anything further I’d have to assume the DEC stands by its prior statement they put forward last year. But in that letter they had also had stated that the district and consultants would have the ultimate plan to review in a timeframe around May 2019 -- obviously that timeframe has come and gone and since 2018 I have called every related entity, in turn our consultants had called the NYSDEC, to ask if the plans had come out yet and we had missed it. That isn’t the case and we have informed the DEC we’re still interested. They have not sent the district any written correspondence about it and I have not spoken to anyone with the DEC about it,” Dr. Rogers said.

He also commented on the 2018 statements on behalf of the school district calling for Town of Oyster Bay officials to authorize independent testing of the former Superfund site for proposed development and also opposing the development as presented 45 months ago.

Rogers added that any inquiries about the failed Syosset Park project or the site’s future should be directed to Town of Oyster Bay officials and Supervisor Saladino. But McKenna contends that Supervisor Saladino will not answer questions he’s raised about the independent testing during Town Board meetings.

“There’s a reason the Town of Oyster Bay does not want to have the independent testing done -- they know what is really under the landfill cap,” he told school board trustees last month.

HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY CAREER EDGE

If your child is a rising high school sophomore, junior or senior who is beginning to think about college and their professional path, these intensive, one-week study options allow them to “try on” careers and serve as an impressive addition to their college application.

DEADLINES

Residential US Students: May 15, 2020

Commuter Students: June 15, 2020

FOR PROGRAM DETAILS AND APPLICATIONS, VISIT: sps.nyu.edu/hsacademy/careeredge04

FOR INFORMATION, EMAIL: sps.hsacademy@nyu.edu OR CALL: 212-998-7006

One Summer Week That Can Change Your Child’s Life!

CAREER EDGE COURSES

Session 1 July 06-10, 2020

Applied Arts for Social Justice

Digital Journalism and Videography

Event Planning and Management in New York City

Fashion Design in New York City

Finance NYC: An Insider’s View

Session 2 July 13-17, 2020

Book Publishing: From Editor to Reader Climate Change, Sustainable Development, and Universal Rights

Creative Writing: Finding Your Muse in the Metropolis

Criminal Justice: From the Crime Scene to the Courtroom...and Beyond

Digital Filmmaking: Telling the Story Through Technology

Session 3 July 20-24, 2020

NEW College Preparation: From Application to Admission

Creating and Writing a Television Series

NEW Exploring Careers in Medicine

Finance NYC: An Insider’s View

Integrated Marketing: Innovation and Strategy

Session 4 July 27-31, 2020

Creative Writing: Finding Your Muse in the Metropolis

Destination Marketing: New York City Entrepreneurship and Business Startups

NEW Fundamentals of Leadership: Understanding Yourself and Empowering Others

NEW Introduction to Esports Business and Culture Journalism: The Who, What, Where, Why, and How of Writing Feature Stories

Pre-Law Bootcamp

Real Estate NYC: From Design to Development

Digital Filmmaking 2: Advanced Techniques and Technologies

Integrated Marketing: Innovation and Strategy

NEW Investing Like a Wall Street Pro

Not Just Your Doctor: Careers in Allied Healthcare

Screenwriting--Visual Storytelling: From Short to Feature-Length Films

Introduction to Financial Technology

Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship

Photographing NYC: Through the Mind’s Eye and the Camera Lens

Pre-Law Bootcamp

NEW Introduction to Human Rights

NEW Investing Like a Wall Street Pro

Investment Banking Fundamentals

Not Just Your Doctor: Careers in Allied Healthcare

Restaurant Entrepreneurship: Examining the Business of Restaurants

Syosset Library hosts Chamber of Commerce meeting

At Syosset Public Library for the February 20, 2020 Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce meeting are realtor Pavan Johar (new member), Woodbury resident Catalina Chew of Accounting Brew and Chamber of Commerce President Maureen Nickel, also a Woodbury resident and owner of BrightStar Home Health Care.

BY RIKKI MASSAND

On Thursday, February 20, Syosset Public Library (SPL) hosted a gathering of 45 business people for the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce’s monthly meeting.

Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce President Maureen Nickel, a Woodbury resident and owner of BrightStar Home Health Care, thanked library staff and administration for hosting the Chamber, noting that her four sons practically grew up studying, learning and participating in events at Syosset Public Library.

Addressing the dozens of small business owners, professionals and area representatives of large companies, Nickel spoke about the process of turning to reliable resources and service-oriented organizations and people, from community institutions such as Syosset Public Library to industry professionals and leaders within the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, part of its new Value Added Services (VAS) initiative.

“Our Value Added Services consists of seasoned Chamber members in certain professional fields -- legal, financial, banking, insurance, real estate and more -- as Chamber members can take advantage of complimentary oneon-one service. You can call or make an appointment, it’s a great opportunity for complimentary consultations with people working within the Value Added Services as listed on the tab on our website (SyossetChamber.com). We also offer a Member 2 Member service as participants are offering a percentage off their services or retail,” Nickel announced on February 20.

At the meeting Library Director Christine Belling welcomed Chamber

Former Syosset Woodbury Chamber President Chanbir Kaur, BNB Bank vice president and branch manager at the Woodbury location (8191 Jericho Turnpike) catches up with Christine Patti, community relations manager for Northwell Health Syosset Hospital, at the February 20 Chamber meeting held at Syosset Public Library.

members and announced that over the course of the last fiscal year more than 318,000 people visited SPL and circulation totaled over 375,000 items, both in traditional print and book formats as well as with ebooks, downloadable files and audiobooks, DVDs or books on CD.

Library of Equipment

Library staff informed Chamber of Commerce members about SPL’s unconventional ‘Library of Things’ -- its growing collection of non-traditional library materials that the public can check out and “try before they buy.” Several of these items from SPL’s The Library of Things, launched in 2019, are on display in glass casing in the library’s media department. SPL encourages the public to ‘borrow the unexpected.’ Items include crafting equipment such as GoPro action cameras, binoculars, thunderbolt and USB cables, WiFi hotspots, Rokus, video game consoles; board games and box set titles such as Family Feud, Let’s asQ, Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit, Apples to Apples, the deck card game Munchkin and Mah Jongg tiles.

Syosset’s Library of Things includes crafting equipment such as Circuit Easy Press 2 heat transfer machines and a laminator and tools/home improvement items such as a wrench set, drill bit set, energy usage monitors, automotive code readers and air quality testers. For travelers to “pre-plan” for their items SPL offers luggage scales and universal travel adapters to check out. Belling says while the Library of Things represents the newest collection at SPL, studies on what materials to offer in expanding the collection are ongoing.

Resources for Businesses

The opportunity to showcase what Syosset Public Library has to offer to

Syosset native, Syosset High School graduate and the community engagement specialist for Syosset Public Library Jessikah Chautin (seated) and Library Director Christine Belling (standing, right) welcomed members of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce for their February 20 monthly meeting held at the library.

businesspeople and professionals who spend time and resources in Syosset and Woodbury came full circle when the library welcomed in Chamber members February 20.

SPL administration notes that more than 1,000 print books are available, as are many e-books, downloadable through the library’s website. These include career books, cover letter and resume writing articles and resources, tools for interviewing, online job searching, and test preparation. Business books include subjects such as starting, running, or expanding a business, and legal and financial needs.

“The Business and Careers collection at SPL can help local businesses meet their informational needs in areas such as accounting, management, law,

human resources, taxes, business plans, computers and social networking, professional certification tests, and resume writing. The collection contains the latest print material, as well as many online databases. Most print materials are located on the third floor. Databases are available at the library, and most can also be accessed remotely 24/7 on computers, tablets, or mobile devices,” SPL leadership advised via email to the Advance and News-Journal.

Library Director Belling states that materials found in the SPL databases are pertinent to business or career advancement. Business databases contain company contact, products, and legal information as well as general business articles. Value Line Research Center, NuWav Legal Documents, Reference

Syosset Library hosts Chamber of Commerce meeting

USA, Consumer Reports, and more, are available.

For those looking to advance or transition in their careers, SPL covers several key resources for preparation and information.

“Career databases offer resume writing templates, resume review and assistance, company contact information, and general information on various careers,” Belling said. Librarians are regularly available to help users locate accurate information in a timely manner.

Another especially convenient tool and resource offered through the Library -- made available at the library or remotely -- are free online courses using Lynda.com, an instructional website with 5,900 unique courses.

Syosset Public Library also carries a great selection of magazines and newspapers (including titles from Litmor Publishing Corp.)

“The collection contains both print magazines and print newspapers (located mostly on the main floor) as well as online resources. RB Digital, an online e-magazine subscription service, contains thousands of magazines, many in languages other than English,” SPL advised.

On-Site and Off-Site

The new Syosset Library of 64,200 square-feet has replaced a smaller venue of 23,500 square-feet. The present-day SPL opened in January 2007 and it includes a modern cafe with vending machines and tables, a full variety in its newspaper and magazine racks, a 150-seat theater for musical performances, lectures, movies, and theater productions; an expanded Children’s Room with a designated story time rooms and an upstairs TeenSpace -- a specially-designed functional area for middle school and high school students to learn, study and work on projects.

Belling said a fun and interesting way to engage the community is through SPL’s offsite programming, which allows SPL staff to present more interactive and exciting programs and activities. Reading club sponsorships from area businesses are another way partnerships have developed between the public, nonprofit Syosset Library and the community.

“These are new and exciting programs which generate a lot of interest. Just as with hosting the Chamber and having members and the greater business community come here, the Library is very much open to developing partnerships. We do want to help the community as that’s what we’re really here for as a public library. We are here for everyone and we look to work with everyone. We can offer off-site programs and we also have reading clubs, some in winter and some in summer, and many Chamber businesses are generous to donate prizes and opportunities to the reading clubs. In summer over 600 local children join

the library’s reading club and we also get over 200 adults in adult clubs. The partnerships are very helpful to SPL in terms of gaining more interest in our reading clubs,” she explained.

Engaging with the Community

In January, the Library’s Community Engagement Specialist and a Syosset High School alumna, Jessikah Chautin, organized a remote storytime for young readers and families at the newly opened Syosset Woodbury Chamber member business Mongo’s Coffee shoppe, roastery and lounge (170 Michael Drive in Syosset, behind Cultural Arts Playhouse) opened last spring by longtime Syosset residents Mitchel and Marna Margulis.

The new program’s intent is ‘opening up’ time for local moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers to relax and sip locally-roasted specialty coffees and cappuccinos while their youngest kids are entertained. SPL’s storytimes at Mongo’s continue monthly on Fridays at 11 a.m. and during the program, parents and guardians of young children can enjoy a free cup of hot coffee while Mongo’s specialty drinks and refreshments are available at a discount. No registration is necessary.

The next Mongo’s Storytime will be on Friday, March 13 at 11 a.m. featuring the theme of “Monsters.”

On Monday, March 16 at 7 p.m. Mitchel “Mitch” Margulis will host an evening Syosset Public Library event at his venue, open to all interested members of the Syosset/Woodbury community, presenting “For the Love of Coffee -- a Coffee Tasting Tour and Experience.” Margulis will speak about the art of roasting coffee beans at the in-house roastery. Registration is not required for the free library ‘show-on-the-road’ program.

“When I began in the community engagement position, the idea stood that the library serves the community. Yes we are here in the usable and often-visited public space, but SPL also needs to go out and meet community members and visitors where they already are. We have launched partnerships with different locations including Mongo’s Coffee, we had a program at PuzzleBreak (across from Mongo’s). We had a small program last summer at Bareburger on S. Oyster Bay Road, and we’ve also gone off-site to One River School of Art + Design (150 Woodbury Road) where adult patrons/ attendees were offered an art class using watercolors for painting,” Chautin said

The Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan and Town of Oyster Bay Councilmembers, including Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino welcomed Mongo’s into the business community with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony held on June 12, 2019. Since it opened on May 1 of last year, coffee fans on Long Island and in the greater New York tri state area who

learn of Mongo’s through word-of-mouth have come to discover the Michael Drive location.

Jessikah Chautin was among attendees and participants for Mongo’s grand opening. Whether in offsite programming or various Chamber of Commerce activities she has consistently made appearances on behalf of SPL, including with the annual table at the 2019 Syosset Street Fair on Jackson Avenue (September 15, 2019) and at Chamber meetings at Syosset Hospital in June 2019 and at NAOT Footwear in Woodbury Village last July.

“The thing about off-site library programming is that it brings visibility to the library outside of our walls but it also brings attention to your business, attracting in new people to see what you have and what the venue is. Mitchel at Mongo’s always tells SPL he gets new repeat customers coming back following the storytimes they hosted -- we are bringing new faces into businesses and that has been absolutely wonderful,” she told the Chamber.

Large Scale, Timely Events

Immediately preceding the 2019 Syosset Street Fair, over 3,000 visitors attended the Library’s 2019 Sy-Con comic-themed arts, entertainment, and pop-culture convention, over the course of Friday evening September 13 and allday on Saturday September 14. SPL staff reflected on the fans of all ages who attended Sy-Con dressed to participate in 40 themed events, costume contests, karaoke, crafts workshops and other programs assisted by several teen volunteers in the community. The library’s Sy-Con took place for the first time in 2017 and then returned in 2019 to build momentum for a biennial experience.

Chautin said for Sy-Con, the Microsoft Store location in Walt Whitman Mall sponsored a half-day Harry Potter themed coding learning class and experience for children. “There are creative ways to engage, present and be part of library program sponsorship,” she commented.

Popular and timely themes and trends are prevalent throughout the library and intertwined with its programming. During the February 20 meeting, Chamber members and attendees were able to try out virtual reality with a session involving VR goggles in front of the SPL Local History room set up on the lower level.

On Wednesday March 11, at both 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. the Syosset Public Library will host “The 2020 U.S. Census and You” with informational workshops twice to inform and engage the community on why this year’s Census count matters, as well as a Q & A session with Census Bureau Specialists. Information on census taker jobs and opportunities will also be presented.

For more general information, the library’s calendar of events, and any pro-

gram registration requirements please check the Syosset Public Library’s website at syossetlibrary.org

The next general meeting of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber will take place on Thursday, March 19, 2020 at the One River School of Art + Design at 150 Woodbury Road, beginning at 5:30 p.m. One River of Woodbury’s Director Cassandra Basile attended the Chamber meeting at Syosset Public Library and welcomed attendees to learn more about the art instruction and applied technology at her school.

On Saturday, March 7 starting at 10 a.m. One River School will host its Family Day featuring a guided gallery tour, art scavenger hunt and hands-on art projects for families with children ages 3 through 7. With its flexible scheduling options and unique class offerings families from all over Long Island come to One River School of Art + Design at times that best suit children’s activities and parents/guardians’ availability.

One River School promotes its role as validation, encouragement and inspiration to all artists and art students who have something to say, “and teach them the skills needed to be able to say it. That is as important as learning math, science, technology and coding skills,” Basile says.

An artists’ exhibit “BKNY: Street View” by Joan Reutershan is also currently on display at One River School of Art + Design. At its March 19 meeting the Chamber will learn more about this collection and hear from Reutershan during a special guest lecture with Q & A. More information on the host business and venue and its programming for both children and adults are available online at Woodbury.OneRiverSchool.com.

The following week, on Wednesday March 25 also beginning at 5:30 p.m., the Chamber of Commerce will present its monthly networking night and social for members and those interested in joining the Chamber at Woodbury Wine Cellar, located at 7973 Jericho Turnpike in the chic Woodbury Village shopping plaza, adjacent to Scout and Molly’s boutique and MoCA Asian Bistro and around the corner from NAOT Footwear, Starbucks and Ben’s Kosher Deli.

Chamber Networking Committee chairperson Alan Goldberg, president of Water Solutions of Long Island and director of business development for Cardworks Merchant Services, announced that the March 25 event will feature wine tastings and lite bites along with information on Chamber groups, events and member businesses. He noted that in the four weeks since the January 16 Syosset Woodbury Chamber meeting, 11 new member businesses joined as members of the Chamber.

Visit the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce’s website for information on member businesses, upcoming meetings and events, SyossetChamber.com

Seaman fifth-graders complete engineering project

This student guides her ROV.

Students watch their ROV in the pool.

Seaman fifth-graders recently completed an engineering design process that they had been working on in class. The students finished building their team's Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) and determined the "cost" based on the amount of PVC used and the fittings they used to attach the motors/camera to the frame. They created commercials to "sell" their ROV's

and they used mass and displacement to determine the amount of flotation to add to their ROV so as to obtain neutral buoyancy. The ROV engineers then had the opportunity to “fly” their ROV's during a special challenge in the Jericho High School pool. Everyone loved the activity.

Photos by Denise Nash

Irish Family History Forum presentation

On Saturday, March 21,  the Irish Family History Forum will present: 10:00 a.m. - Kathleen McGee: Civil Registration of Deaths in Ireland 10:45 a.m. - Refreshment Break:  Meet and socialize with other members.

Ask the Experts: This is an opportunity to meet one-on-one with an experienced genealogist to ask a basic genealogy question.

11:15 a.m. - Susan R. Miller: New York Land: The Soil that Yields Records

For those researching families in New York City and New York State, land records can produce a crop of

helpful information. Miller will discuss access to land records and will provide an overview to some collections that may yield results for your research. The Irish Family History Forum (IFHF) is an Irish Genealogy Organization with members throughout New York and in many other states and countries.

Meetings are free and open to the public. Light refreshments are served. Join us at Bethpage Public Library, 47 Powell Avenue, Bethpage.

Directions: www.ifhf.org

Information: contact Pat

Email:  programs@ifhf.org

Website: www.ifhf.org

Town awarded NHL grant for youth ice hockey program

The Town of Oyster Bay has received a grant from the National Hockey League to acquire ice rink dividers which will be used in instructional and game settings to split the ice rink surface at the Town's Ice Skating Center in Bethpage.

Currently, the ice rink dividers, which were purchased utilizing a grant from the National Hockey League, are being solely employed in the 8 year old youth ice hockey division, but will be utilized more thoroughly as time progresses.

“The Town’s Youth Ice Hockey program has consistently been recognized as one of the best on Long Island, as kids who are enrolled are given the great opportunity to improve their skating and hockey skills as part of a program that has earned recognition by the National Hockey League for its high level of quality,” said Town Councilman Tom Hand. “I want to thank the NHL, who serve an important role in fostering the sport of ice hockey in our Town through the ‘Try Hockey for Free’ program, for their generous grant which made the acquisition of these new ice rink dividers possible, and has led to a much more enjoyable experience for both the kids and instructors!”

Under the grant provided by the NHL, the Town received $3,500 towards the purchase of this equip-

ment, which covered most of the cost. The ice rink dividers have currently been used extensively in the 8 year old ice hockey division, and have proven to be a huge hit with players, coaches, and parents alike, as these dividers greatly enhance the experience for all involved.

Registration for the Town’s 2020 Spring Youth Ice Hockey Program and House League began, and continues in person through Sunday, January 26 at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue in Bethpage. The program is open to girls and boys ages 3-16. Individuals interested in registering for the 2020 Spring Youth Ice Hockey Program must bring a copy of their birth certificate, proof of Town of Oyster Bay residency (tax or utility bill) as well as payment. Check, money order, MasterCard or Visa will be accepted. All registrants must bring these items, even if they have participated in the past. A parent or legal guardian must be present at registration.

Anyone unable to make in-person registration dates who would like to sign up for the program should please call Buzz Deschamps at (516) 433-7465, x8233. For more information regarding the Town’s Youth Ice Hockey and House League Program, contact the Department of Parks at (516) 797-4136.

24 Merit Lane, Jericho

Sold Price: $1,068,000

Date: 12/11/2019

4 beds, 2 Full/1 Half baths

Style: Split # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 103x124

Schools: Jericho

Total Taxes: $19,032

MLS# 3172327

Sold Price: $1,200,000

Date: 11/01/2019

5 beds, 4 Full baths

Style: Split # of Families: 1

Schools: Jericho

Total Taxes: $24,348

MLS# 3124789

120 Colony Lane, Syosset

Sold Price: $745,000

Date: 09/05/2019

4 beds, 2 Full baths

Style: Split # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 68x100

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $17,855

MLS# 3137168

Sold Price: $710,000

Date: 12/12/2019

4 beds, 2 Full baths

Style: Split # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 73x127

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $17,792

MLS# 3155094

A SEASONED PROFESSIONAL

135 Colony Lane, Syosset

TEAM LIU AND SHEN **