Community accolades for Chamber president
BY RIKKI MASSAND
The Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce will be seeing a changing of the guard in its leadership as longtime Woodbury resident Maureen Nickel, who served as the Chamber president in 2020, exits the position with the conclusion of her term December 31 and with 21-year Syosset resident Russell P. Green, president of RPG Wealth Management, takes over as the 2021 Chamber president.
Accolades poured in to this newspaper’s newsroom about Nickel’s many accomplishments:
Chamber Vice President
Danielle Delgrosso of Roslyn Savings Bank, a division of New York Community Bank, commented on her colleague and friend Maureen Nickel’s dedication to the business community and all of Syosset-Woodbury over the years. She says in 2020, despite pandemic limitations on activities and outreach, Nickel has done a most outstanding job as president of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber:
“This unprecedented year has made it a little more challenging to engage with the community and local businesses in the traditional ways the cham-
ber has done so in the 20 previous years. However nothing stopped Maureen as she was determined to find alternative ways to connect, quickly turning to digital connectivity as she managed to continue facilitating Board meetings, networking opportunities and Chamber general meetings (held every third Thursday of the month) via Zoom.”
“Maureen was very much committed to helping out small businesses during these difficult times by applying for a grant from PSEG to purchase heaters
See page 24
Jericho Schools say farewell to assistant superintendent
BY RIKKI MASSAND
During the Jericho Public Schools’ Board of Education meeting, held online on Thursday December 17, school district officials offered thanks and farewells to Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Barbara Bauer, who will be retiring at the end of the 2020-2021 academic year.
Bauer has spent the last 20 years with Jericho Public Schools, working her way up the ranks from principal at Cantiague Elementary into the role of assistant superintendent in Jericho.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Hank Grishman commented that the district will have many opportunities over the remaining six months of this school year to thank and celebrate Bauer for her contributions.
“Our school district is a better one because of Barbara Bauer -- our teachers are all better because of Barbara, and the administration, including your superintendent, are better because of Barbara. Her impact on our school district is great and can’t be described in one moment or multiple moments. Hopefully we will have the opportunity to share what Barbara has meant to all of us and to our kids in her 20 years here. I look forward to an in-person celebration next June or July where we can all be together and we can celebrate Barbara in a manner in which she deserves...From the bottom of my heart, I wish Barbara a very happy, healthy, enjoyable and a very long retirement!” Grishman said.
School Board President Bill Ferro said. At the very start of Thursday’s meeting, he reflected on the impact Bauer made.
“I have known Barbara for the 12 years I’ve served on this board and every fiber of her impresses me. She is an incredible educator, teacher and administrator and certainly she’s been an incredible assistant superintendent. Barbar has been a very dear friend that I love and respect, both from working with her as board president and just as an individual and parent. You’ve given us 20 of your best years Barbara, and we’re so grateful for everything you have done for this school district and for everything you stand for. It’s with sincere thanks on behalf of the entire school board, we wish you all the best and thank you for everything you’ve given to us
See page 24
Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Thomas Hand, Chamber of Commerce President Maureen Nickel, Nassau County Legislator from District 16, Plainview's Arnold W. Drucker and Nassau County Legislator from District 18, Josh A. Lafazan
Happy 100th birthday
Bay Town Supervisor
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom Hand recently honored World War II veteran Bud Rosch of Bethpage on his 100th birthday.
Bud is an American hero and a member of the Greatest Generation. He beat COVID-19 at the age of 99 and survived getting shot down by enemy fire during a mission targeting Italy in 1944. While landing safely in Allied territory, Bud was taken
in by a pair of Italian women who nursed his wounded legs for a day. He went out and connected with an Allied convoy three days later and recuperated in a hospital for about a week before being sent back into the field. He went on many more missions before coming home and settling with his late wife Elsie in Bethpage in 1950. They have three children, eight grandchildren and 15 great-children.
Levittown students selected as QuestBridge finalists
Division Avenue seniors Abani Ahmed (left) and Sumaya Ahmed were named QuestBridge National College Match finalists. Photo courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools
Two seniors from Division Avenue High School in the Levittown Public Schools were recognized as QuestBridge National College Match finalists. Abani Ahmed and Sumaya Ahmed are among 6,885 students out of more than 18,500 applicants to be selected as finalists based on their academic achievement and financial qualifications.
Both students have the opportunity to apply to any of QuestBridge’s college partners with no application fees. They will rank up to 12 schools out of the 42 affiliated colleges and universities
through QuestBridge’s Match Ranking Form. As a finalist, these students stand out among these educational institutions for their high achievement. Abani and Sumaya will find out if they match with a school this December. Finalists who match are admitted early with a full four-year scholarship to the school that they matched with. If a finalist does not match, they can continue the process through QuestBridge’s Regular Decision application which gives them a second chance of admission to their top ranked colleges.
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Joseph Saladino (center), Councilman Tom Hand (right) with World War II veteran Bud Rosch of Bethpage on his 100th birthday.
The Garden City News, Bethpage Newsgram, Jericho-Syosset News Journal, Mid-Island Times & Levittown Times, and Syosset Advance!
with
Town holds STOP program Pedestrian injured on Jerusalem Avenue
Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray (right) assisted Elena Satriano of Levittown as she participated in the Town of Hempstead Stop Throwing Out Pollutants (S.T.O.P.) Program on December 6 at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. This program allows residents to dispose of harmful pollutants – such as antifreeze, drain cleaners and pesticides – in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
Nassau County Police are investigating a crash involving a pedestrian that occurred on Thursday, December 17 at 5 p.m. on Jerusalem Avenue in Levittown.
According to police, a 46-yearold man was walking southbound on Jerusalem Avenue in the vicinity of Mallard Road when he was struck by a United States Postal vehicle also travel-
ing southbound. As a result of the collision, the pedestrian suffered multiple trauma injuries to his head and body. He was transported to an area hospital and is in serious condition.
The male operator, 62, remained at the scene. The vehicle went through a brake and safety check. The investigation is ongoing.
Two killed in
Old Bethpage crash
Nassau County Police reported that two men were killed in a crash on Round Swamp Road in Old Bethpage on Tuesday, December 15th.
According to police, a 2005 Ford SUV travelling southbound on Round Swamp Road left the roadway and struck a tree. Upon police arrival, Officers found two
males that had been ejected from the vehicle. Both males, 31 and 29 years old, were pronounced deceased at the scene by a police medic. A female passenger was located in the rear of the vehicle with non-life-threatening injuries. She was transported to an area hospital for treatment. The investigation is ongoing.
Free PPE for businesses
Don Clavin
Dennis
and Town Clerk Kate Murray (right) provided a free PPE kit to Abel Gil, owner of Ann’s Cleaners in Levittown, on October 27, 2020. This new town program makes 6,000 PPE kits available for local businesses with items needed to keep staff as well as their patrons safe. The kits are available free of charge and are only available while supplies last, so businesses in need of these high-in-demand supplies are encouraged to apply on the town website –hempsteadny.gov/ppe-giveaway – as soon as possible. This initiative has been made possible through funding from the federal CARES Act, which provided a $133 million grant to the Town of Hempstead to distribute economic relief grants to alleviate some of the adverse effects that have arisen due to the pandemic.
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Lee Avenue School announces Design-a-Mask winners
Pictured with Lee Avenue Principal Stephanie Stam are the winners of the school’s Lee-O’s-Laws Design-a-Mask Contest.
Kindergarten through fifth-grade students at Lee Avenue were invited to design paper face masks illustrating one of the school’s rules, known as Lee-O’s-Laws. Pictured here are the students selected as first place winners in front of the bulletin board that features their mask designs. The contest also helped to promote awareness of Kindness Week, held from November 16 through 20. “All the entries were wonderful,” explained Principal Stephanie Stam. “It was very, very difficult to pick the winners since everyone did such a great job. Congratulations to all the students who participated in the competition!”
Kindergarten:
1st Place: Vasilios Kakakios
2nd: Liliana Faczan
3rd: Emilia Alessi
First Grade:
1st Place: Talyan Mohamed
2nd: Ryan Swiech
3rd: Harleen Kaur
Second Grade:
1st Place: Giavanna Cuccia
2nd: Amelie VanBell
3rd: Kamryn Smith
Third Grade:
1st Place: Shayana Syed
2nd: Kylee Bartasco-O’Hara
3rd: Christian Cuccia
Fourth Grade:
1st Place: Carlos Rojas
2nd: Ethan Kim
3rd: Liana Garrido & Amanda Betancur
Fifth Grade:
1st Place: Mackas Kneski
2nd: Sophia Martinoff
3rd: Alexis Cromwell
Hempstead Town Supervisor
(second right), Councilman
Dunne (left)
Levittown students recognized as HOBY leaders
Sophomores from the Levittown Public Schools selected to attend the virtual New York Metro Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar this June. Pictured from left: Anna Herschmann, Maya Reetz, Michael Cassano and Maya Zivkovich. Photo courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools
Four sophomores from the Levittown Public Schools were recently selected as ambassadors for their high schools in the virtual New York Metro Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar on June 5 and 6. Anna Herschmann and Maya Reetz will represent Division Avenue High School, while Michael Cassano and Maya Zivkovich will represent General Douglas MacArthur High School. Alyssa Eisenberg will serve as MacArthur High School’s alternate representative.
Each year, thousands of sophomores across the country participate in one of HOBY’s 70 State Leadership Seminars. Among the qualifications, these exception-
al students are selected for their interest in community service, high moral character and strong leadership skills. The seminars give students the opportunity to exercise their leadership abilities in personal and group settings and connect with local community leaders through panels, discussions and presentations. Due to the restrictions in effect because of COVID-19, HOBY’s New York Metro 2021 Seminar has moved from its traditional in-person format to a virtual format. The virtual seminar will teach and empower Cassano, Herschmann, Reetz and Zivkovich how to make a positive impact in their community and the world.
Toys for Tots collection drive
Town of Oyster Bay officials with members of the United States Marines and some of the toys collected during the Toys for Tots collection drive.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Tom Hand and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato joined the United States Marines Corp. in hosting a massive, first-of-its-kind ‘CruiseThru’ Toys for Tots Collection Drive at John Burns Park in Massapequa on Saturday, December 5. The Town of Oyster Bay collected over 16,000 toys to help families impacted by the COVID-19 economic crisis and those less fortunate throughout the community during the upcoming holiday season.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “This ‘Cruise-Thru Holiday Toy Drive’ provided residents a safe way to donate toys while bringing smiles to the faces
of children this holiday season. I thank our residents for opening their hearts and wallets to generously give back to children in need during the holidays. This collection drive was the all-time largest single day collection on Long Island and demonstrated the love our community has for others.”
For those who still wish to donate an unwrapped toy, please visit collection boxes throughout the Town by Monday, December 14 at the following locations: Town Hall North in Oyster Bay; Town Hall South in Massapequa; Department of Public Works in Syosset; Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville; and the Town Ice Skating Center in Bethpage.
This Week at the Syosset Library
Monday, January 4 at 9:15 a.m.
Dancersize with Carol Rodriguez
This fitness class combines aerobic exercise with dance moves. Do it from the comfort of your own home. Register at www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming
Tuesday, January 5 at 6:15 p.m.
Yoga for Relaxation with Laurie Ahleman
Learn basic yoga postures and relaxation techniques from the comfort of your own home.
Register at www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming
Wednesday, January 6 at 1:00 p.m.
Simply Fit with Marilyn Bunger
This class is suited for the older
adult. It combines basics of strength training and stretching. Register at: www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming
Wednesday, January 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Maritime Smuggling on Long Island: From Pirates to Rumrunners
Presenter: Bill Bleyer, historian, author and former Newsday reporter
Learn why Captain Kidd and other pirates were attracted to Long Island at the turn of the 18th century, how Kidd’s visit to Gardiners Island led to Kidd’s death, and why LI was so attractive to bootleggers during Prohibition. No registration is necessary. Click on Virtual Calendar for Zoom link - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.
Thursday, January 7 at 2:00 p.m.
The National Government v. the States: Who Wins?
Presenter: James Coll, adjunct professor of American and Constitutional history at Nassau Community College and Hofstra University, retired NYPD detective Few debates have been as lasting as the struggle to define the relationship between the states and the national government. Professor Coll will analyze the concept of federalism--the balance of power between these two structures. No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.
Friday, January 8 at 2:00 p.m.
The Law in Films
Presenter, Greg Blank, filmmaker & video journalist. Some of the greatest movies ever made were about lawyers, the law and the courtroom setting. Films discussed will include “ To Kill a Mockingbird, ” “ Inherit the Wind, ” “ 12 Angry Men, ” “ A Few Good Men, ” “ My Cousin Vinny, ” “ The Verdict, ” “ Philadelphia, ” and “ Judgement at Nuremberg. ” No registration is necessary. Join us via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www. syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.
Town provides PPE kits to Chamber
Hempstead Town Councilman Dennis Dunne, Sr. and Town Clerk Kate Murray provided free PPE kits to the Levittown Chamber of Commerce on November 23, 2020. Accepting the kits on behalf of the Chamber was Office Manager Tara Cassano. This new town program makes 6,000 PPE kits available for local businesses with items needed to keep staff as well as their patrons safe. The kits are available free of charge and are only available while supplies last, so businesses in need of these high-in-demand supplies are encouraged to apply on the town website –hempsteadny.gov/ppe-giveaway – as soon as possible. This initiative has been made possible through funding from the federal CARES Act, which provided a $133 million grant to the Town of Hempstead to distribute economic relief grants to alleviate some of the adverse effects that have arisen due to the pandemic.
Salk students paint the night away
Syosset math scholars named to Institute of Creative Problem Solving
Two Syosset High School students have been accepted by the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students at SUNY College at Old Westbury. Selection by the Institute into their annual program indicates that these students are among the top one-tenth of one percent of all students in mathematics on Long Island in his or her grade.
Ria Mehta and Emily Su, both ninth graders at the high school, were chosen to participate in this year’s program. They were among the approximately 700 top ranking students who were nominated by their principals for one of 84
spots available.
This year, students accepted into the program will spend 50 hours in Zoom classes over the course of 20 Saturday mornings. Ria and Emily’s program curriculum for grades 9 and 10 will include applying problem solving to Euclidian algorithm, mass-point geometry, number theory, and binomial and multinomial theorems, among other topics. Institute graduates have gone on to win prestigious national and international math, science and engineering contests and have been selected as Intel and Siemens awardees in math, science or technology.
Jonas E. Salk Middle School students from the Levittown Public Schools showcased their creativity in the school cafeteria on Dec. 10 with a paint night, sponsored by the school’s recreation club. While maintaining social distancing, Mike Scully, a Levittown resident, instructed the students on how to paint a snowman and provided
step-by-step instructions as they followed along. The fun-filled activity was coordinated by Jonas E. Salk staff members Daniel Agovino, Renee Essex and Erica Tuccillo. By the end of the paint session every student had a beautiful snowman that they created and were proud to display or give as a gift this holiday season.
With warm wishes for a happy holiday season, along with heartfelt thanks for your friendship and goodwill. From the staff at Litmor Publications
Students at Jonas E. Salk Middle School participated in a paint night led by Levittown resident Mike Scully. Photo courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools
Ria Mehta
Emily Su
Toys for Tots supporters
Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) thanked members of New York Chapter 2 of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the AARTI Foundation and local Plainview toy store MJ Beanz on Sunday, Dec. 6 for their generous support of Legislative Drucker’s annual Toys for Tots drive.
“Not only are these committed philanthropists lending an important helping hand to deserving families this
holiday season, their purchase at a local Plainview toy store underscores the importance of supporting small businesses during the holidays and throughout the year,” Legislator Drucker said. “I am tremendously grateful to New York Chapter 2 of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the AARTI Foundation, and MJ Beanz for their time, efforts, and generosity in support of our annual Toys for Tots Drive.”
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Beanz.
courtesy of NY Chapter 2 of the American Academy of Pediatrics
NOTICE OF FORMATION
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Get Dirty Designs LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/19/2020. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is: United States Corporation Agents INC, 7014 13th Avenue Suite 202, Brooklyn, New York 11228.
The principal business address of the LLC is: 151 West Old Country Rd. Apt 2 Hicksville, NY 11801. Purpose: any lawful act or activity MIT 5905
6X 11/27,12/04,11,18,25,01/01/2021
NOTICE OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING BETHPAGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, IN THE COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK (February 9, 2021)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an Informational Meeting of the Bethpage Union Free School District, Nassau County, Bethpage, New York, will be held virtually via YouTube Live on January 28, 2021 at 7:00PM, prevailing time, for the purpose of discussing the Bond Proposition which shall be voted on at the Special District meeting to be held on February 9, 2021, as more fully described herein.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Education of the Bethpage Union Free School District (the “District”), in the County of Nassau, New York, adopted on December 15, 2020, a Special District Meeting of the qualified voters of said School District will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 from 12:00 o’clock P.M. to 8:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) in the Auxiliary Gymnasium of the Bethpage Senior High School, Cherry Avenue and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage, New York, in said District, for the purpose of voting upon the following Bond Proposition: BOND PROPOSITION YES NO
RESOLVED:
(a) That the Board of Education of the Bethpage Union Free School District,
in the County of Nassau, New York (the “District”), is hereby authorized to construct alterations and improvements to all District buildings and the sites thereof (the “Project”), substantially as described in the “Bond Planning Study” (the “Plan”) prepared for the District by BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, P.C., on file and available for public inspection at the office of the District Clerk; such Project to include interior reconstruction and space reconfiguration; electrical, lighting and information technology system upgrades; floor and ceiling replacements; building envelope improvements; ADA compliance; athletic and recreation improvements, including installation of a new track, synthetic turf fields, scoreboards, new athletic barn, storage units and concession building and field, basketball court and irrigation upgrades; and parking, driveway; asphalt and pavement improvements; the foregoing to include the original furnishings, equipment, machinery, apparatus and ancillary or related site, demolition and other work required in connection therewith; and to expend therefor, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, an amount not to exceed the estimated total cost of $16,250,000; provided that the costs of the components of the Project as set forth in detail in detail in the Plan may be reallocated among such components if the Board of Education shall determine that such reallocation is in the best interest of the District;
(b) that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $16,250,000 to pay the cost of the Project, said tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and
(c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of not to exceed $16,250,000, and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable.
Such Bond Proposition shall appear on the ballots used for
LEGAL NOTICES
voting at said Special District Meeting in substantially the following condensed form: BOND PROPOSITION YES NO
RESOLVED:
(a) That the Board of Education of the Bethpage Union Free School District, in the County of Nassau, New York (the “District”), is hereby authorized to construct alterations and improvements to all District buildings and the sites thereof substantially as described in the “Bond Planning Study” prepared for the District by BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, P.C., and to expend therefor an amount not to exceed $16,250,000;
(b) that a tax is hereby voted in the aggregate amount of not to exceed $16,250,000 to pay the cost thereof, said tax to be levied and collected in installments in such years and in such amounts as shall be determined by said Board of Education; and
(c) that in anticipation of said tax, bonds of the District are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of not to exceed $16,250,000, and a tax is hereby voted to pay the interest on said bonds as the same shall become due and payable.
The voting will be conducted by ballot on voting machines or paper ballot as provided in the Education Law and the polls will remain open from 12:00 o’clock P.M. to 8:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) and as much longer as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballots.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER
NOTICE that each person entitled to vote must register. Registration dates, hours, and locations are as follows:
WEEKDAYS, until February 4, 2021, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Prevailing Time) when school is in session in the Office of the District Clerk, located in the Administration Building, Cherry and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage, New York.
SATURDAY, January 30, 2021, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. (Prevailing Time), in the Boardroom at the Administration Building, Cherry and Stewart Avenues,
Bethpage, New York.
The following persons shall be eligible to vote: All persons who shall have presented themselves personally for registration in accordance with section two thousand fourteen of the Education Law and all persons who shall have been previously duly registered for any annual or special meeting or election, who are qualified to vote and who shall have voted at any annual or special meeting or election held or conducted during the four (4) calendar years prior to 2021 (i.e., 20172020) and who are not disqualified from voting for any reason set forth in New York State Election Law Section 5-106. In addition, all persons who are registered to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law of the State of New York shall be eligible to vote.
All persons who registered at the Annual Meeting and Election held on June 9, 2020, will not be required to re-register for the purpose of voting at the Special District Meeting to be held on February 9, 2021. Persons whose names appear as eligible voters as of June 9, 2020 on the Voter Registration Books issued and maintained by the Nassau County Board of Elections, shall be eligible to vote at the Special District Meeting to be conducted on February 9, 2021.
Any qualified voter of the District who is in doubt as to whether she/he is registered to vote at the Special District Meeting to be held on February 9, 2021 should contact the District Clerk of the Bethpage Union Free School District at (516) 644-4002.
The Board of Registration will meet during the Special District Meeting to be held on February 9, 2021 for the purpose of preparing a register for meetings and elections held subsequent to such Special District Meeting.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the register will be open for inspection by a qualified voter of the School District on Thursday, February 4, 2021, up to and including the day of the election, February 9, 2021, Sunday excepted, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., with the exception of Saturday, February 6, 2021, when the hours will be
from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that absentee ballots will be available for the election of School Board Members and the Budget Vote. Applications for absentee ballots are available in the Office of the District Clerk, which is located in the Superintendent’s Office at the Administration Building, Cherry and Stewart Avenues, Bethpage. To have an absentee ballot mailed to your home, a completed and signed application must be in the District Clerk’s Office no later than Tuesday, February 2, 2021. Application for an absentee ballot may be made in person from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on any school day and up until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 8, 2021. Applications can also be downloaded from the district’s website at: http://www.bethpagecommunity.com
The right to vote by absentee ballot will be subject to the approval of the Board of Registration. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk commencing with the issuance of the first absentee ballot and on each of the five days prior to the day of the election (except Sunday), between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, and on Saturday, February 6, 2021 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The list will also be available at the polling place on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Absentee ballots will be accepted in the Office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. Any ballot received after that time will not be counted.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that Military Voters who are not currently registered to vote may apply to register as a qualified voter of the District by contacting the District Clerk at 10 Cherry Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714; Telephone: (516) 640-4002; or email: ebecker@bethpage.ws to receive an application to register as a qualified voter of the District for said Special District Meeting on February 9, 2021. The Military Voter may indicate
their preference for receiving the registration application by mail, by facsimile or electronic mail (email). The application to register must be received by the District Clerk no later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth day before the vote (January 14, 2021). The register of voters prepared and filed in the District Clerk’s office shall include the names of all military voters who submit a valid military voter registration. A military voter means a qualified voter of New York State who is in actual military service and will, therefore, be absent from the District in which he or she is qualified to vote on the day of registration or election or is discharged from military service within 30 days of an election, or a spouse, parent, child or dependent of the military voter, accompanying or being with such voter, if a qualified voter of New York State and a resident of the same school district as the military voter, or military personnel residing on a military base within a school district in New York State for a period of 30 days immediately preceding said Special District Meeting.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that Military Voters who are qualified voters of the District may obtain an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk at The Office of the District Clerk 10 Cherry Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714; Telephone: (516) 6444002; or email: ebecker@bethpage.ws. A military ballot application must be returned in person or by mail to the Office of the District Clerk, no later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth day before the vote (January 14, 2021). The Military Voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application for a military
LEGAL NOTICES
ballot by mail, by facsimile or email. Military ballots will be mailed or otherwise distributed no later than 25 days (January 15, 2021) before said Special District Meeting. Military ballots must be received by the District Clerk (1) before the close of the polls on February 9, 2021 and showing a cancellation mark of the U.S postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the U.S. government or (2) by 5:00 P.M. on the date set for the Special District Meeting and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereof, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before said Special District Meeting. Irrespective of the preferred mode of transmission, the military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person. A list of all persons to whom military ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the said Office of the District Clerk during regular office hours, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (Prevailing Time), until the day of said Special District Meeting.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR VOTING:
1. A person shall be a citizen of the United States.
2. Eighteen or more years of age.
3. A resident of the District for a period of thirty days or more next preceding the election at which he or she offers to vote.
4. Must be registered to vote. Only qualified voters who are registered to vote will be permitted to vote.
It being expressly understood that the intent of the District is to comply with the Executive
Orders of the Governor stemming from the current coronavirus pandemic, should such in any way vary from procedures and timing referenced herein or as is otherwise usually applicable to conducting a Special District Meeting. Thus, all references to the timing, location, and manner of voting in the Special District Meeting as set forth herein, are subject to modification based on applicable legislation or direction by the Governor or other body with jurisdiction over the District.
BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Dated: December 15, 2020
ELENA BECKER District Clerk
BN 7486
4X 12/25, 01/08/2021,01/22,02/05
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.
Name: 200 Oakwood Ave., LLC. County: Nassau. Secretary of State is designated as agent for service of process. Address for service and principal place of business: 100 Crossways Park West, Woodbury, NY 11797. Articles of Organization filed July 8, 2020. Any lawful business purpose.
JNJ 7951
6X 12/11,18,25,01/01,08,15
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.
Name: 232 Birchwood Ave., LLC. County: Nassau. Secretary of State is designated as agent for service of process. Address for service and principal place of business: 100 Crossways Park West, Woodbury, NY 11797. Articles of Organization filed September 7, 2017. Any lawful business purpose.
JNJ 7952
6X 12/11,18,25,01/01,08,15
Changes to Boys & Girls Club board
Roger Bahnik, co-president of the Boys & Girls Club of Oyster Bay-East Norwich, recently announced changes on its board and acknowledged the retiring of board member Chris Coschignano, and noted his genuine gratitude to him for having devoted 14 years of loyal service to the Club. It was with regret that Mr. Coschignano tendered his resignation, as he has personally enjoyed his years on the board and devoting his time to the organization. However, Mr. Coschignano has been recently elected as Nassau County District Court Judge for the Fourth District in Nassau County and will be unable to continue with his role as board member. Mr. Bahnik additionally announced the election of new board member Elisabetta Coschignano. As a result, Mr. Bahnik shared, “The Coschignano Family has always championed the cause, and their commitment to the
Boys & Girls Club is admirable. We are all very glad to welcome Elisabetta to our Board of Trustees, as she is sure to be an invaluable asset to the Club.”
Ms. Coschignano is a partner in the law firm of Sahn Ward Coschignano PLLC and has been practicing law for more than two decades. Her sense of community is most exemplary. In addition to volunteering her time and talents over the years at the Boys & Girls Club of Oyster Bay-East Norwich, she has volunteered at the Pride in Athletics for Life Ice Hockey organization and St. Edward the Confessor Church and School. She is a past member of the St. Edward the Confessor School Board and has served as school board president during her tenure. Elisabetta and her husband, Chris, are residents of Oyster Bay, Long Island, where they are raising their children. She offered, “I am looking forward to joining the board in its commitment to work to achieve the mission of the Boys & Girls Club to make a difference in the lives of the youth of our community.” Mr. Bahnik added, “Our community is fortunate in having an individual of the caliber of Ms. Coschignano, who is willing to give so generously of herself on behalf of the children.”
The Executive Committee for the ‘20–‘21 session is as follows: Lori Bahnik and Roger Bahnik, co-presidents; Claude Bahnik, vice president; Ralph Fumante, vice president; James Litke, vice president; Michael Borgia, treasurer; and Daniel Barbiero, secretary.
Elisabetta Coschignano
December 25, 2020
Surging Demand, Limited Capacity Encourages Skiers to Discover New York’s Lesser Known
BY KAREN RUBIN
Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing in the brisk fresh air of greater outdoors will be salvation to get through this dark winter of isolation. Fortunately, New York State, with 50 ski areas (more than any other state), is gearing up, putting in the protocols to keep everyone safe and healthy, doing what will be the safest and healthiest way to be active this winter. Just being outdoors will be a tonic for body and soul.
ISkiNY.com (Ski Areas of New York) is a sort of one-stop online place to learn about the various mountain resorts and ski areas and overall New York State policies to address (and contain) COVID-19. All areas are under capacity constraints (50 percent of last season’s busiest day) and visitors must follow rules for wearing masks (an actual mask, not a gaiter) at all times except when actively skiing or eating. Most require or strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance (and are selling out because of limits) – even season pass holders. Also, areas are limiting time that can be spent indoors in the lodges (recommending using your own vehicle as a kind of base lodge), and with limited après-ski opportunities, are promoting day-trips to ski areas within driving distance. Fortunately, with 50 areas throughout the state, just about everyone lives within 2 ½ hours of a ski area. (See more at ISkiNY.com).
“Know before you go,” is Scott Brandi, President Ski Areas of New
Areas (There are 50)
A family enjoys expanded outdoor dining at Greek Peak. The strong desire for outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, coupled with capacity restrictions, is encouraging visitors to discover more of New York State’s 50 ski areas. Areas have found innovative, pleasurable ways to adapt to the state’s COVID-19 requirements (photo provided by Greek Peak).
York, recommends. Check ahead for conditions and availability.
Here are just a few of the ski resorts and areas to explore:
Greek Peak
The Greek Peak Ski Resort is a full-service, four-season resort and the largest ski area in Central New York. It has a 952 ft. vertical drop from a 2100 ft summit. It’s varied terrain (220 skiable acres) offers 56 runs (35% beginner, 29% intermediate, 27% advanced, 9% double-black diamond, 4 terrain parks and half pipe), serviced by six chair lifts and two carpet lifts; the longest run is 1.5 miles, plus night skiing. There’s also 8 km of Nordic terrain (natural, so depends on conditions) and snowshoeing.
The Adventure Center has a mountain coaster, guided zipline
tours even in winter (by reservation), snowtubing (10-12 lanes).
Located in the Finger Lakes, Greek Peak offers an Adirondackstyle lodge, Hope Lake Lodge (151 rooms, sleeping 4-10 people) as well as log home (sleeps 14, across from slopes), outdoor heated pool, indoor water park with wave pool (water slides and hot tubs are currently closed under COVID-19 regulations).
Greek Peak Mountain Resort, 2000 NYS Rte 392, Cortland, NY 13045, 800-955-2754, greekpeak.net
Plattekill Mountain
Privately owned and operated by the Vajtay family, Plattekill Mountain in the northwestern Catskills, with 38 trails and terrain, offers “authentic mountain experience.” Powder Magazine (Dec. 2018),
described Plattekill as “The Alta of the Catskills.” It offers wide variety for skiers and snowboarders: 2-mile long beginner cruisers to steep double black diamonds with 1100’ vertical from its 3500 ft. high summit, accessed by 4 lifts (20% easier, 40% intermediate, 20% black, 20% double black), a “natural terrain park” nestled in the woods between the Lower Face and Shredded Mozzarella trails. “Big mountain terrain, small mountain charm.”
New this season: widening, clearing beginner and intermediate trails; installation of new snowmaking pump to improve snowmaking; new wireless technology; new “Platty Shack” with outdoor deck for quick grab and go items; new ‘order online’ option in cafeteria; new online shopping for tickets and rentals eliminating lines at rental shop.
Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury, NY 12474, 607-3263500, info@plattekill.com, plattekill. com
Catamount Mountain Resort
Catamount Mountain Resort is a four-season resort straddling the NY/Massachusetts border just about 2 hours from NYC. “With its sister resort, Berkshire East, Catamount is one fun mountain with some of the best steeps in southern New England and some of the best beginner and intermediate terrain.” Catamount has undergone a stunning transformation since the summer of 2018: new lift, new lodge, hundreds of new snow guns, four snow making ponds, miles of pipe, and countless other upgrades which make Catamount one of the best small ski areas on the East coast.
Continued on next page
GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....
Discovering New York’s Lesser Known Ski Areas
Catamount, Hillsdale, NY, 518-3253200, info@catamountski.com, https:// catamountski.com/
It has a 1,000 ft vertical from the 2000 ft summit, 38 runs on 133 skiable acres (40% beginner, 35% intermediate, 15% advanced, 10% expert); longest run is 2 miles, and intermediates get to ski 1.25 miles from summit to base on turnpike Upper and Lower Sidewinder; for advanced, the double black Catapult is the steepest trail in the Berkshires and its Upper/Lower Glade to Off Stage provides a half-mile of moguls; night skiing on 15 trails (more than 4 miles worth)
Catamount also boasts North America’s longest zip line, one of the largest aerial adventure parks on the East coast,
Tickets must be purchased in advance.
West Mountain
Nestled at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains, conveniently accessed just off I-87, West Mountain towers over Glens Falls.
West Mountain offers a 1010 vertical drop from the 1470 ft. summit, 31 trails on 124 skiable acres (36% beginner, 55% intermediate, 9% advanced, one terrain park), accessed by four lifts, with night skiing on 105 acres. Also a tubing park. 6-packs are for sale now that provide 6 tubing tickets, lift tickets or aerial treetop adventure tickets for the price of 5. Night skiing.
West Mountain, 59 West Mountain Road, Queensbury, NY 12804, 518.636.3699,
WestMountain.com
Bristol Mountain
Bristol Mountain, in Canandaigua, opened for their 56th season of operation. Located in the Western Finger Lakes Region, it offers 38 trails on 138 acres of skiable terrain and a 1200’ vertical drop from a 2200 ft. summit, accessed by six lifts including two high-speed quads (32% beginner, 50% intermediate and 18% advanced), 97% lighted for night skiing terrain and 97% snowmaking coverage; the longest run is 2 miles. Also, two terrain parks and 3 km of Nordic trails. Bristol Mountain’s North Star Village Townhouses offer affordable ski-in/ski-out lodging with built in deals with their Ski & Stay programs. Reservations will be required for card products and lift ticket sales.
Bristol Mountain, 5662 Route 64, Canandaigua, NY 14424, 585-374-6000, fun@bristolmt.com, bristolmt.com.
An excellent source: https://www. onthesnow.com/new-york/ski-resorts. html
For more information, contact Iskiny.com.
© 2020 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com, www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/ Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures
How’s business? A chronology of holiday facts and quotes
BY MARJORIE GOTTLIEB WOLFE
It has been said that “Man spends his life reasoning with the past, complaining about the present, and trembling about the future.” Let’s see what businesspeople, economists, retail consultants, CFOs, and others have had to say about the Christmas/Hanukkah season.
2020
“I think there is a lot of nervousness among consumers in general, but at this point, it’s not going to stop them from shopping in a major way. If anything, it will shift to more sales online as opposed to in store.”
James Bohnaker, economist
“This holiday is going to be unlike any holiday season any of us have ever seen before.”
Chip Burgh, CEO, Levi Strauss & Co.
“We are turning into Amazon nation.” Margaret O’Mara, History prof. at Univ. of Washington
Amazon has recruited 100,000 temporary workers for the holiday season, on top of the more than 427,300 workers it hired from Jan. to Oct. of this year.
“Restaurateurs are in a state of despair. The restaurant industry has been clobbered by the coronavirus pandemic this year…nearly 110,000 restaurants have permanently closed…”
Phil Kafarakis
2019
Consumer survey research shows that getting a tree is among the Christmas experiences people remember as a child. (CTPB survey)
Marilyn Monroe’s menorah—a gift
from Arthur Miller’s parents—sold for $112,522 at auction.
The Los Angeles Lakers will play on Christmas Day for the 21st consecutive year. It’s the fourth time that the Lakers and Clippers meet on the holiday.
2018
“Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas means a little bit more.”
Dr. Seuss
“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.”
Andy Rooney
If you say “Alexa, Ask Santa Tracker for Santa,” she will respond with a bit of information on what Santa is doing right now. Apple’s digital assistant claims it can see Santa’s house from the cloud. Siri was most prepared for Christmas questions and the fastest to respond.
slate.com
2014
Pope Francis likened the obligation to buy gifts at Christmas to “material slavery.”
“Homeowner may still be enjoying their Jack-o-Lanterns and Halloween candy, but several major retailer have leap-frogged over Thanksgiving to kick off their deals for Christmas.”
Janet H. Cho
2013
“Christmas helps to employ millions of people and props up our entire retail economy.”
Sarah Palin
2012
“If you receive a gift card, use it immediately, approximately 20% of gift cards go unused.”
George Lowenstein and Cass R. Sunstein
2011
“In reality, when people aren’t able to even afford homes, and they don’t have jobs, they’re not going to be buying a lot of creative comforts.”
Joshua Owen
2010
“6 million Americans are juggling debt from last year’s shopping season.”
Newsweek
2009
“The frugality trend is still the overriding sentiment out there. Consumers are wiling to spend money, but theywant value.”
Jin Chang, Best Buy exec
“The consumer is going to be here for the last five days. The consumer knows that if they wait, the prices will come down. And they will.”
Howard Davidowitz
2008
“I don’t have to tell you the macroeconomics are not perfect. That said, I really believe people are going to shop for the holidays. Unless you believe Christmas isn’t going to happen, I believe people will shop.”
Neal Goldberg, The Zale Corp.
“It’s an extraordinary tough time for retailers. November is shaping up to be the worst month in retail since I’ve been here 30 years. Now I know know how that little kid felt who misbehaved all year and then wondered if Santa was going to show up in December.”
Edward Schmults, C.E.O., of FAO Schwarz
“You walk the mall, and consumers look like zombies. They’re there in person, but not in spirit.”
John Morris, Wachovia retailing analyst 2007
“Economic climate is not robust and our customer is more cautious.”
Myron E. Ullman, J. C. Penney 2005
“It’s not just getting an earlier start on the Christmas season, it’s getting to shoppers before they see their first heating bills.”
Candace Corlett 2004
“People are going to go out and shop and have a good time, but they’re not going to have as good a time as they did last year.”
Richard Hastings, analyst with Bernard Sands
Crossword Answers
2003
“No Grinch expected this holiday season.”
Deloitte & Touche, consulting firm 2001
“We’ve become like Pavlovian dogs, waiting for the last great sale in the sky. This year, consumers are going to be disappointed in what they find.” Carl Steidtmann 2000
“The traditional last-minute rush won’t help, because prices are already marked way down. This is going to be truly miserable—probably the worst holiday season in five years.”
Brian James, Sayles & Co.
“This could be a very, very sad Christmas for some retailers, particularly high-end stores. What’s happening in the stock market will make people feel less wealthy… [and] they won’t spend as much.”
Brill Beemer, America’s Research Group, Charleston, SC 1999
“It’s going to be a make-it-or-breakit Christmas. You’re going to see the A-leagues separated from the others. Consumers are going to vote and leave a lot of businesses behind during the holidays.”
Julie Wainwright 1998
“This year more than ever before, it is a waiting game between the consumer and the merchant to see who blinks first…Even though consumer confidence is up, people are still looking for bargains.”
Irwin L. Kellner, Econ. Professor, Hofstra University 1997
“Suddenly consumers have realized that the stock market is not a one-way street, going up only. That may make them a little less inclined to open their wallets.”
Kurt Barnard, Herald Leader 1996
“The reality is that most people don’t have that many incremental dollars to spend on general merchandise. But the key point is that for some companies the
WRITER’S CORNER
latter part of September was favorable, which we think portends for a healthy Christmas.”
Jeffrey M. Feiner, analyst at Salomon Brothers 1995
“It’s eerie. The crowds are unbelievably thick and the cash registers are silent. I can barely move here, but I can only see one Bloomingdale’s shopping bag.”
Kurt Barnard, retail consultant
“I’m extremely nervous what Christmas will bring. There really isn’t anything out there so awe-inspiring fashion-wise or trend-wise that people think they just have to buy it. Just walk through your local mall, and everywhere it’s jeans, jeans, and jeans.”
Philip Abbenhaus, Stifel
“We’re looking for a mediocre Christmas. This is not a disaster, it’s just a soft landing.”
David Wyss, Economist, DRI/McGraw-Hill 1994
“We know the [Xmas] growth is occurring with the discounters. The last recession was so long and so deep, it traumatized the consuming public. We’ve generated a cadre of bargain hunters.”
Pearl Kamer, LIA Planning Bd. 1993
“Experts expect grandparents to drop some $2 billion for their grandchildren this Christmas. That’s in addition to the nearly $10 billion they’ve already spent this year for gifts of merchandise and cash.”
James McNeal, Marketing professor 1992
“The middle class no longer feels ashamed of buying gifts at discounters.”
George Rosenbaum
1991
“We’re doing more [Christmas] parties, but on a smaller scale. People are very budget conscious. The trend is for less extravagance. Each food and liquor item is being looked at differently. And parties have less guests.”
Johannes Tromp, GM, Windows on the World
1990
“Retailers have lots of Christmas inventory and they’ve got to figure out how to move it, and the oldest way to do that is: ‘Half off, come and get it.’”
Alan Millstein, Editor of Fashion Network Report 1989
“The essence of gift giving is related to the monetary value of the item. A Christmas gift should cost exactly the same as the one given to you the year before, plus two percent.”
John Cleese, Business Week 1988
“Among adults, the attitude seems to be ‘if you can appeal to me, I’ll buy. If not, I won’t. My closet is full and I’m not in any great need of buying things I really won’t have much use for.”
William Ress, C. W. Ress & Co.
1987
“I’m surprised that we’re running ahead of our projections. I’m sure part of it is we’ve really put out an extra effort. We had areas set up with Christmas items the first of October. We used to do it right after Halloween.”
Paul Porado, Mgr., K Mart, Lodi, NJ
1985
“The question this year is not how good the Christmas season will be but how bad.”
Sandra Sjaber, Chase Econometrics
1983
“It’s the time of year [Christmas] when giving a turkey to an employee is supposed to create an unbreakable bond of gratitude.” Roger A. Wilson, D Magazine
1981
“New York has natural attributes from a business point of view. It’s located in the purchasing area of some 20 million people—the people who live here, those who come into work and those who live just outside. There are very few markets like that in the world. And there are buyers. These are shoppers.”
Ed Koch,
“How’m I Doing?
The Wit & Wisdom of Ed Koch”
MARJORIE GOTTLIEB WOLFE is a retired business educator, free-lance writer, and author of two books on Yiddish.
A Holiday Gift Idea: My New Social Security Book!
BY TOM MARGENAU
First of all, let me wish a heartfelt happy holidays to all the wonderful readers of my column. I’ve heard from so many of you over the years. I’ve managed to help you understand Social Security a little bit better. And many of you have managed to brighten my days with your kind words about me and my column.
Some of you are new to the column because it just recently began running in whatever newspaper or publication you read. But many of you have been reading it for years. In fact, just today, I got an email from a guy who told me that he and his wife have been reading my column for 20 years!
And many of you old-timers have been asking me this question: “When are you going to write a book?” Well, I finally have! More about that book in a minute. But first I want to share a little story with you.
I’ve actually been toying with the idea of writing some kind of Social Security guidebook for many years. In fact, about 15 years ago, I had a book ready to go. I found an agent, and this agent peddled my book to a number of book publishers around the country. Finally, a big publishing house in New York bit at the book. I spent about six months going back and forth with various editors, constantly revising the manuscript, until we finally got something we all could be happy with. Then it went to the managing editor of the firm for what was supposed to be a pro forma rubber stamp of the book. Instead, she threw a big wet blanket over the whole project and stopped the presses with this remark: “Why should we publish a book about Social Security when we know the program is going to be reformed next year and the book will be out of date?” That was in 2005. And here we are, 15 years later, and Social Security still hasn’t been reformed! So, anyway, my dream of publishing a Social Security guidebook turned into a nightmare. All that time. All that effort. All that work. For nothing!
I was so turned off by the whole affair that I put any plans to write another book on the back burner. I thought, I’ll just continue writing my column and be happy with that.
But as I said, over the years, so many of you have encouraged me to put that book back on the stove and onto the front burner. And that’s what I did this year. And now the book is ready. It was published just this week.
I call the book “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” It is a collection of fact sheets that I have written over the years about various aspects of the Social Security program. Let me explain that. I get hundreds of questions from my readers every week (sometimes every day!). And as you might guess, I am frequently asked the same questions again and
again! And over the years, what I did was develop various fact sheets that answer the most common questions that people ask or that cover the most common Social Security topics that people are interested in. So, instead of spending a lot of time answering these redundant questions with a long, drawn-out email reply, I’d send a fact sheet and say something like: “I wrote the attached fact sheet just for folks like you. It should answer all your questions.”
I have now put all those fact sheets -updated for 2021 -- into one place, “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” Here is an overview of those fact sheets and a little preview of the book.
Fact Sheet No. 1 is “Social Security Basics.” It is an introduction to the Social Security program and to the book.
Fact Sheet No. 2 is “Myths and Facts About Social Security Financing and Proposals for Reform.” There are so darn many rumors, half-truths and outright lies floating around about how the Social Security program is financed. This fact sheet sets the record straight. It also includes a list of the most common proposals that will be considered as part of inevitable Social Security reform.
Fact Sheet No. 3 is “When To Take Your Social Security Benefits.” Over the years, this has been, by far, my most popular fact sheet. It explains Social Security rules and tells you when and how to file for Social Security benefits. If you are nearing retirement, this fact sheet alone is worth the price of the entire book.
Fact Sheet No. 4 is “Working After Retirement and the Earnings Penalty.” If you are between age 62 and full retirement age, the law puts a limit on how much money you can make and still get Social Security checks. The rules are messy and difficult to understand. This fact sheet explains them as clearly as I know how.
Fact Sheet No. 5 is “A Woman’s Guide to Social Security.” This has always been my second most popular fact sheet. Whether you are a working woman or a stay-at-home mom, by reading this fact sheet, you will learn a lot about your own benefits and any spousal or widows benefits you might be due.
Fact Sheet No. 6 is “Benefits for Children.” If you are eligible for retirement or disability benefits and have minor children at home, this fact sheet explains the benefits they may get on your account -- or, if you die, the survivors benefits they will be due. The fact sheet also explains benefits payable to children with disabilities.
Fact Sheet No. 7 is “Social Security Disability Benefits.” This fact sheet explains the two disability programs that are run by the Social Security Administration and gives tips about filing for those benefits.
Fact Sheet No. 8 is “Government Pension Offsets and Social Security.” If you
or your spouse works for a government entity that does not pay into Social Security, or you collect a pension from another country, you should read this fact sheet. It explains the often-controversial offsets that affect any retirement or spousal benefits you might be due.
Fact Sheet No. 9 is “When Social Security Says You Owe Them Money.” If you have received a letter from the SSA telling you that you have been overpaid, you should read this fact sheet to learn how to deal with that issue.
Fact Sheet No. 10 is “Working After Your Social Security Checks Start: Will
Your Additional Income Increase Your Social Security Check?” The title explains what this fact sheet is about. The book also has two other helpful sections. There is a clarification of the “Top 10 Social Security Myths.” And the book ends with an explanation of what to do when someone getting a Social Security check dies.
If you want to put my new book under your Christmas tree, you will find it at my syndicator’s website: www.creators.com/ books.
COPYRIGHT 2020
GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....
With Innovative Classes, Workshops Gold Coast Arts Center Illuminates Dark Winter With
BY KAREN RUBIN
There is no better antidote to the cold dark winter that is upon us than filling the season and one’s soul with art, music, theater, film. People are turning COVID-19 isolation into an opportunity to broaden skills, discovering new talents and exploring new interests. And the Gold Coast Arts Center, a regional nonprofit multi-arts organization dedicated to promoting the arts through education, exhibition, performance, and outreach, is adapting its programs to the new reality, which in an interesting twist, has enabled the center to expand its reach well beyond the Long Island community.
Winter 2021 School registration started Dec. 10 for classes starting in January. The arts organization has been able to continue to offer about two-thirds of its catalog by adapting programs – some virtual, some still in-person in the arts center’s studios.
“Our focus for Winter 2021 as it relates to school is flexibility,” says Julie Wostenholme, Marketing & Development Director, for the arts center. “During these difficult times of Covid and with a second wave looming, our school team has proven itself to be a highly trusted resource and a dedicated concierge service to students and families. We’ve evolved with the times by offering more options.”
These include innovative programs such as:
• Virtual, Hybrid & In-Person classes.
• Multi-session classes, One-Day workshops, Pop-Up classes & Create Your Own classes.
• Host a Holiday Art, Dance or Chess Party with Family & Friends
• Private lessons in all disciplines.
• Film / Art Combo Series – first ses sion is a film on Claude Monet, paired with a Monet themed paint ing class (this series is sponsored by HSBC in Great Neck).
• A new focus on adult classes, work shops.
One of the adaptations is that instead of offering programs that extend from winter into spring, because people are not comfortable committing to longer programs, most of the courses are divided into eight-session segments, but for specific classes, when you sign up for the winter session, you will be sent a promotional discount for signing up for spring session at same time.
Even its renowned film festival and year-round cinema series, which was reintroduced last May, is in high gear, continuing to bring the best of independent new films with its at-home screenings. The series continues to offer two to three new films a month, partnering with film distributors (a
50-50 split in the ticket price). You click to buy a virtual ticket ($10-12 per film) and have 48-72 hours to watch once you purchase. And you still have access to the hallmark of the center’s film festivals: special Q&As with directors and people connected with the film, as well as the ability to link to film reviews and critiques. (Tickets can be purchased for individual films, rather than a whole series.)
The center’s cinema series films are now accompanied by “film kits,” so that in addition to seeing movies that have been specially curated, movie-goers can also enjoy a GCIFF Film Team Selection Review as well as Director Statements, Q&As and any other specialized collateral materials made espe-
Art, Music, Theater, Film
theater, even robotics two virtual classes: for beginners, an intro to robotics, and programming, physics of robotics targeted to intermediate & advanced) and chess – a program that the center has offered for years, but with the “Queens Gambit” craze, now offers two new virtual chess classes. “People called to create their own chess class.”
“We have kept up a robust program. We’re not offering everything, but we continue to offer the most successful, innovative and popular programs, well thought out to accommodate the times.”
Indeed, one of the innovations is to “create your own pod” – customized class. People can propose a class to Ellen Schiff, Director of School for the
Gold Coast Arts Center in Great Neck, Long Island, is finding new ways to deliver classes, workshops and programs during the COVID-19 crisis © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com
cially for the arts center. “This is a highly competitive market so we are trying to make the film experience with us a very well-rounded one,” Wostenholme says.
On view now: Ric Burns’ documentary “Oliver Sacks: His Own Life”; “Conviction” a French courtroom thriller based on a true story (French with subtitles); and “Saul & Ruby’s Holocaust Survivor Band,” a musical documentary about finding purpose and meaning in life at any age, the transcendent power of music and the importance of speaking out against anti-Semitism and bigotry, featuring an exclusive Q&A with director Tod Lending.
Virtual, Hybrid & In-Person classes are offered spanning age groups, from 4 years old to teens and adults as well as family programs, and across a huge array of “the arts” - art, dance, music,
Arts, and the arts center will arrange a teacher. The class can be customized and personalized for time, interest and competency level.
Another innovation are one-day adult workshops, which do not require a commitment beyond signing up in advance. One of these new workshops is a “film & art” series –combining two disciplines: participants see a documentary of an artist’s exhibition and life on screen, which is then linked to a one-day painting class at the arts center (the elements can be purchased separately or as a combo).
The January 7, “Adult Painting & Film” immersive workshop is focused on the life of Claude Monet and his most beloved paintings. “Watch how his art developed as the film, Exhibition on Screen: I, Claude Monet features his gardens at Giverny, and the series of paintings they inspired. Students
will recreate their own rendition of The Bridge with the lively strokes that Monet used in this live in-person workshop.” No experience is required and the supplies are provided (sessions limited to 8).
The center is hoping to offer one of these Adult Painting & Film workshops per month.
For programs that are offered in the arts center’s own building on Middle Neck Road in Great Neck, strict guidelines and protocols are maintained for anyone coming into the center to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of students, teachers, staff - socially distancing; only the students and program participants are allowed in; grids mark off six-feet separation; masks must be worn at all times, the center has a filtration system and keeps windows open where appropriate.
Even virtual classes, taught online, are organized so the supplies are provided – people drive to the arts center and pick them up curbside.
For example, an Adult Virtual Pastel Art Workshop is a 90-minute-session with an instructor, offered on January 24 (no experience necessary; supplies are included and can be picked up at the arts center; limited to 8 students).
The arts center is also offering “popup classes” – one day workshops, for example in ceramics (artist Jude Amsel is offering a holiday ceramics workshop); and “create your own” classes, where people make a request and the arts center puts together an instructor.
You can also host a customized holiday art, dance or chess party with family and friends to learn, say, cartooning.
The arts center is also offering private lessons in all disciplines. – 45-60 minute sessions that are virtual, interactive, personalized to your learning style and experience, with the instructor providing feedback (people have signed on from Colorado and Chicago).
All of these programs are prime for gifts and the Arts Center offers the opportunity to give the gift of art or membership. “How great to gift your parents or grandparents with an amazing class or workshop – they may discover some hidden talent or unexplored interest.”
Purchases on Amazon can also support the arts center, which is a beneficiary on the Amazon Smile program (shop, then choose Gold Coast Arts in the Pick a Charitable Organization tab).
The arts center remade the website, goldcoastarts.org , with user-friendly menu and easy access to all class registrations).
ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900
AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com
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EMPLOYMENT
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
$18.50 P/H NYC $16 P/H LI
$13.50 P/H UPSTATE NY! If you need care from your relative, friend or neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as a personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA program. No Certificates needed. Phone: 347-713-3553
SITUATION WANTED
CNA / HHA / COMPANION
AVAILABLE
Experienced male or female aide available to take care of your loved one full time or part time 6hrs, 12hrs, 24hrs. Please call 516-688-9251
ELDER CARE Experienced woman seeks position to care for the elderly live in or live out. Certified HHA & certified child care. Excellent references. Please call 516-800-6442
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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ADOPTION
ADOPTION
EMPLOYMENT
SITUATION WANTED
MATURE LADY SEEKS employment as CNA. Home health aide, very reliable, hard working, willing to do background checks, 15 yrs nursing home experience. Please call 516-4101892 or 917-244-3714
CAREER TRAINING
COMPUTER & IT TRAINING program! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)
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Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)
Single woman looking to build her family by adoption. Any ethnicity welcome, expenses paid. Please call 347-470-5228 or my attorney: 800-582-3678 for information.
EVENTS
COVID-19 TESTING
AVAILABLE
COVID-19 PCR Nasal Swab and /or ANTIBODY testing Mon, Wed & Fri in Floral Park Doctor’s Office without wait or lines. Scheduled by appointment. 516-488-1414
MARKETPLACE
A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP
516-746-8900
Antiques-Furniture-Jewelry-Silver-Mirrors-LampsArtwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Tues-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4 Our Website tgchs.org Our Online Store stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange Items to Consign? Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org
All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Like us on Facebook & Instagram
MARKETPLACE
INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now! Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!
AUCTIONS
COOL OLD STUFF IN GLEN COVE VINTAGE SHOP. WINNER OF BEST OF NORTH SHORE 2020. GREAT PRICED items for Boat and Home. See ALL online: Wilsonsdrydock.com. For info / appt Please call 516662-2821
WANTED TO BUY
I BUY OLD AMERICAN MOTORCYCLES Up to 1999. Call Dan 516-639-1027
MARKETPLACE
LOOKING TO BUY!
Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104
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
CHERYL’S PET SITTING SERVICE
Dependable pet sitter will walk and feed your precious pet while you work or travel. Also available to board small dogs. Many excellent references. Call 516-971-3242
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
CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900
AUTOMOTIVE AUTOS WANTED
DRIVE OUT BREAST CAN-
CER: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup 24hr response Tax deduction Easy to do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755
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JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING
We can frame anything!
Quality Care & Workmanship
Thousands of frames to choose from!!
Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495
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Need help decluttering? Organizing?
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SUNFLOWER FINE ART GALLERIES MIRRORS
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Art/Photo Restoration Printing, Hanging Services Shadowboxes, Smiles 6 A Terminal Road West Hempstead, NY 11552 www.sunflowerfineart.com @SunflowerArtGuy 516-747-7406
ATTORNEY
STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.
Elder Law, Wills & Trusts
Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates.com
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
AMBIANCE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
*Handyman & Remodeling
*Kitchen Installations
*Furniture Assembly
*Finish Carpentry
*Minor Electrical & Plumbing
28 year GC Resident
Lic & Ins H18E2170000
Call BOB 516-741-2154
SERVICES
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
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Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone.
Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146
LAMPS FIXED $65
In home service. Handy Howard. 646-996-7628
LEAK REPAIRS
24 Hour Service
Bathrooms, showers, Kitchens Call 516-668-5624
MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS
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HEALTH SERVICES
DR. MARLENE LEVY PhD, LCSW, DAAPM and Outdoor CLINICAL HYPNOSIS & PSYCHOTERAPY. Call: 516-944-3885
AVAILABILITY
Location: 1400 Old Northern Blvd. 2nd Floor, Roslyn NY 11576. Total approximately 700 sq feet. Two large interior offices, one about 250 sq feet and the second approximately 450 sq feet. Offered for rent at $1100 (per month). Within a large office suite on the top floor of a beautifully maintained building. Perfect for attorney, financial professional, or as a Long Island satellite office. INCLUDED: Shared kitchen, conference room, elect/ac/heat, common area cleaning and elevator. furnished (optional). Plenty of parking. Contact: Lisa Sicurelli, lsicurelli@ambabstract.com or call 516-626-0900.
SERVICES
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FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC
Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager
Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams
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901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530
PAINTING & PAPERHANGING
MICHELANGELO
PAINTING & WALLPAPER
Interior, Exterior, Plaster / Spackle, Light Carpentry, Decorative Moldings & Power Washing. Call: 516-328-7499
CLEANING
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SERVICES
A & J MOVING & STORAGE:
Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving .com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405
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Town of fers winter f itness classes
Town of Oyster Bay residents who are interested in maintaining or improving their levels of fitness over the cold and stagnant winter months will be able to register for the Town’s popular co-ed fitness classes. Classes are offered to individuals 18 years of age or older.
“The Town is pleased to once again be offering these excellent fitness programs, which provide a terrific outlet for our residents to exercise and stay in shape during the winter,” said Councilman Lou Imbroto. “The Town’s Parks Department does a great job providing residents the opportunity to take advantage of these classes and stay physically active and engaged during the cold winter months. Additionally, these classes will be presented this year with new health protocols in place to protect the health and well-being of our residents as we all continue to navigate the coronavirus pandemic.”
This winter, residents will have the choice between the following classes which run for 10 weeks:
• Ballroom Dancing: Saturdays, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., beginning on January 9, 2021. This class will be held at the Hicksville Athletic Center.
• Cardio Kick-Boxing : Thursdays from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. beginning January 7, 2021. This class will be held at the Hicksville Athletic Center.
• Pilates: Residents can choose their session from the following: Tone & Sculpt Pilates on Mondays beginning January 4, 2021 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Pilates with Rings on Wednesdays beginning January 6, 2021 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.; or Pilates with Props beginning January 9, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. This class will be held at the Hicksville Athletic Center.
• Strength Training:
Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., beginning January 10, 2021. This class will be held in the Community Room at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage.
• Yoga: Residents can choose their session from the following: Sundays (beginning January 10, 2021) from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center; Mondays (beginning January 4, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.) at the Hicksville Athletic Center, and Tuesdays (beginning January 5, 2021 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.) at the Hicksville Athletic Center, or Saturdays (beginning January 9, 2021) from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the Community Room at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage.
• Zumba: Residents can choose one session, either Mondays (beginning January 4, 2021 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.) or Wednesdays (beginning January 6, 2021 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.). This class will
be held at the Hicksville Athletic Center.
Registration is available at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 S. Broadway in Hicksville from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Monday, December 14, Wednesday, December 16 and Thursday, December 17. Class fees are $60 for residents and $70 for non-residents (checks or money orders only).
Due to COVID, class enrollment will be limited to allow for proper social distancing and temperatures will be checked upon arrival. Masks must be worn while moving throughout the facility. Daily cleaning and sanitizing takes place prior to and after classes.
For more information, or to inquire about special holiday scheduling, call (516) 797-4125 x. 2 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny.gov.
Jericho Schools say farewell to assistant superintendent
From page 1
in being the instructional leader for the district over many years,” he said.
Assistant Superintendent Bauer will be replaced by the current principal at Jericho’s Robert Seaman Elementary School, Dr. Ivy Sherman. The superintendent noted that many parents have congratulated Jericho Public Schools for its decision to promote Sherman, and he believes the move “provides for a smooth transition for our curriculum leadership within the district.”
“That’s such an important part of our school district, knowing that we have in place someone who will work closely with Barbara over the next six to seven months. Dr. Sherman will pick up the ball and run with it and provide us with the same level of leadership that we’re used to gives us all great comfort. Congratulations to Ivy,” Grishman noted.
Some board discussion on the decision to hire from within and the official process behind the new appointment for Dr. Sherman to move up in the ranks took place at the meeting. After a question raised by School Board Trustee Daborah Lee on the district’s administrative hiring process, Jericho’s school board attorney Chris Powers clarified the existing district policy:
“On the legal end District Policy #6211 states ‘the district will attempt to employ the best-qualified personnel for any position; professional personnel shall be recruited and selected by, or
at the direction of, the superintendent of schools who shall recommend the appointment to the board of education.’ This does not specify any particular process, it’s up to the superintendent to recommend but it is ultimately the school board’s decision,” Chris Powers stated.
Just prior to Powers’ comments Superintendent Grishman noted that Jericho Public Schools has previously hired several administrators “from within the school district based upon the current time and current needs of the district.”
“We’ve hired an assistant superintendent without a process before and we’ve hired curriculum associates and PPS (Pupil Personnel Services) staff without a process. Our history is sometimes we’ve done a process and sometimes we have not. If you look over 20 years there are probably an even split of times we have and have not run a process,” Grishman said.
During the Zoom meeting School Board Vice President Jill Citron noted that she did not want the COVID-19 pandemic and issues it has created as any excuses to have the district “not follow a process.”
“I wanted to ensure that we weren’t just picking Ivy to expedite things. I wanted to make sure that she is the best person for the job and even if the district were to conduct a process, that we could not imagine having any better person for this job -- I wanted to make
sure that we were picking the best person for this position,” Citron said. Board President Ferro concurred and explained some of the procedural checklist at-work, from the board’s deliberations:
“Every time a position opens in the Jericho Public Schools’ district there are superstars within our ranks qualified for the jobs, virtually every time... multiple ‘superstar’ candidates. We hire and nurture the best possible administrators and the best possible teachers at every level here. Over the course of two executive sessions, this board of education took time and diligence to consider the possibility of running an outside process or to consider superstars within our ranks. We did that, and we did that for hours and it was OUR determination in this year in particular -- in light of the pandemic and in light of the changes in academics, and in light of who we are -- to hire a superstar here within our ranks (Dr. Ivy Sherman) who could immediately work with and under the tutelage of Barbara Bauer, Superintendent Grishman and Assistant Superintendent Benjamin Ciuffo, and she can immediately adapt and become familiar with all the needs our children and our families have here in Jericho Schools without hesitation. We made that decision and it’s one we are proud of,” Ferro explained.
Jericho School Board Trustee Dr. Pam Wasserman-Heath asked about the administrative process for replacing Dr.
Sherman’s principalship at Seaman Elementary and Superintendent Grishman noted that this position will be advertised for applicants in January.
“As we look for the elementary principal candidates, as in the past our PTA and the staff at Seaman Elementary will be involved in the process,” he said.
During a report from the Jericho Joint PTA Council delivered by Vice President Allyson Edelman, filling in for Council President Gina Levy last Thursday, more heartfelt wishes were expressed for Bauer and her successor, noting the “big shoes” Dr. Sherman will fill.
“On behalf of Gina and everyone else on our joint PTA Council we’d like to wish Assistant Superintendent Barbara Bauer congratulations on her retirement and we wish her well in the next chapter of her life. Barbara has been an amazing partner to the PTSA for many years. It has been a true pleasure to work with her and we’ll miss her dearly. Also at this time, the Joint PTA Council also congratulates Dr. Ivy Sherman in her new role as assistant superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction -- I was fortunate enough to be the PTA president at Seaman Elementary when Dr. Sherman arrived eight years ago, and she has made a tremendous impact on Seaman’s students, faculty, staff and the community. We wish you both the best of luck on your new endeavors,” Edelman said at the December 17 board meeting.
Community accolades for Chamber president
From page 1
for the local restaurants to continue offering outdoor dining. It has been wonderful serving on our Chamber Board with Maureen Nickel and I am looking forward to continuing working with her in our efforts to serve the small business community” Delgrosso said in an email.
Syosset Woodbury Chamber Executive Board member and Treasurer Bill Chabina has known Maureen Nickel for decades. He notes that as the Chamber President, Nickel demonstrated strong leadership “made more difficult by the unprecedented year.”
“Maureen has been an outstanding member of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce for many years. She always has given her talents and valiant efforts not only to the Chamber, but to the entire Syosset Woodbury community,” Chabina said.
“As Treasurer of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, I have enjoyed working closely with Maureen, a person always eager and capable to make things better for all -- and she has succeeded in doing so. Maureen
has been a truly exceptional president of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce. I thank her for all that she has done,” Chabina said on Monday, December 14.
Alan Goldberg, president of Water Solutions of Long Island and both the Membership Committee chair and Networking Committee chair of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, emailed his warm regards and well-wishes for his colleague with the chamber as she completes a uniquely successful year in the role of president.
“Congratulations to Maureen Nickel for leading our Chamber through a very challenging year. Maureen was the right person to lead the Chamber through the most difficult periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. She draws from her strong healthcare knowledge, background and involvement due to her ownership of the BrightStar Homecare of North Shore Nassau County, a home health care business.”
“As a Woodbury resident Maureen was able to see the effects of the COVID crisis on a daily basis. She’s been a champion for small business, our Shop Local! initiatives as well as keeping the
Chamber involved in the community. In 2020 we participated in PPE drives, supported local food drives, and secured a PSEG Grant to purchase outdoor heaters for our member restaurants among other things,” he said.
Goldberg notes that Nickel further demonstrated a sense of awareness, precision and dedication in overseeing the posting of valuable information on the Chamber’s website and via its weekly emails relating to Government Programs, Grants, Loans, resources, and more.
“Maureen led each of our monthly General Meetings, helped arrange for speakers with topics relevant to our business community and led the transition from in-person meetings to Zoom meetings. Our monthly Networking meetings continued and she approved the establishment of our new Women’s Group. I want to personally thank her for her leadership during this challenging year and for her continued participation as a Board member moving forward,” he told the Advance and News-Journal on December 17.
New York State Senator James Gaughran, who represents the 5th Sena-
torial district along Long Island’s North Shore from Glen Cove to Northport, attended the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce’s Installation Dinner, held on January 27, 2020 at Lisbon Café on Jericho Turnpike. The senator welcomed attendees and his fellow Long Island region elected officials, including the most members of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Town Board, Nassau County Legislators Josh Lafazan and Arnold Drucker, and many others.
Last week Gaughran commended the local-level leadership he’s seen from Nickel, including in 2019 as she was the Chamber’s vice president and with decades of action and volunteerism in her own community. “Maureen Nickel is a pillar of the Syosset Woodbury community. Her committed leadership has allowed the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce to flourish and to help countless small businesses grow and thrive. I thank Maureen for her committed service and know she will remain an active, dedicated member of our community,” Sen. Gaughran commented: