Mid-Island Times (01/25/19)

SERVING PLAINVIEW, HICKSVILLE, AND LEVIT TOWN

COOKING

FOR COMMUNITY

Families, students, board members, and central and building administrators gathered at Levittown Memorial Education Center for an evening of delicious food and fun during Levittown’s Gerald R. Claps Career and Technical Center’s SkillsUSA Fundraiser Dinner on Jan. 10.

Long Island Blues Winter Classic

The 9th Annual Town of Oyster Bay Long Island Blues Winter Classic will take place on Saturday, January 26th.

This special event showcases LI Blues hockey players with special needs enjoying a game they love verse three other teams from the tri-state area.  The public is welcome to attend and admission is FREE.  Faceoff for the first of four games is at 3:30 pm.  The fourth and final game is expected to conclude at approximately 8:30 pm.

“The LI Blues is an inspir-

ing hockey program in which children and young adults with developmental disabilities play ice hockey in a wonderful setting,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino.

“This Classic brings all the fun of playing ice hockey to athletes with special needs. Three other teams, the Storm from Connecticut, the New Jersey Dare Devils and the New York Raptors will be participating and the Town welcomes these teams to the Town of Oyster Bay.  We invite residents to come to this

event and cheer on the LI Blues.  Their commitment and dedication to the sport is uplifting.”

“The LI Blues organization is pleased to again be partnering with the Town of Oyster Bay to present the LI Blues Winter Classic,” Skip Theiss of LI Blues Special Hockey said.  “We are very proud of our program which adapts the game of hockey to make it fun for players with special needs.  The LI Blues Winter Classic is an outstanding piece of that program and we

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Jewish center honors MLK Day with packing event

BY GARY SIMEONE

It was all hands on deck at the 4th annual ‘MLK Day of Service’ at the Mid Island Y Jewish Community Center last Monday. 354 volunteers spent their morning creating care packages for people experiencing food insecurity and poverty across Long Island.

“This was just one event going on in 24 sites throughout our network,” said Gail Warrack, Director of Volunteer Services at the JCC. “Each site had a different activity going on to commemorate this special day.”

There was plenty of wrapping and taping going on at the Mid Island Center, where volunteers from all over Long Island created over 1,200 packages to be sent out to five different agencies. Some of the agencies included the Huntington Interfaith Homeless Iniative, Long Island Program of Birthday Wishes and the Gerald Ryan Outreach Center in Wyandanch.

A variety of items were placed inside the packages including supplies to make a warm meal, personal care items and toiletries like toothpaste, soaps and shampoo. Birthday bags were also filled for kids to help them celebrate their birthday’s.

“There are over 4,000 people who are experiencing food insecurity and poverty here on Long Island,” said Warrack. “Items

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Participants in the Mid Island Y’s MLK Day of Service with care bags packed for people in need.

Hicksville Historical Society Winter Social

The Hicksville Historical Society will hold its annual Winter Social on January 27th at the Hicksville Public Library, in the Community Room: 169 Jerusalem Ave, Hicksville

Tax grievance workshop, pet food drive

Admission is free. Refreshments will be served.

For further information, call President Denward Collins at (516) 7354783 or write hickshistsoc@aol.com

The social will also feature librarian and historian James Janis with a program titled "Hicksville: Then, Now, and the Future."

Get rid of your unwanted items by placing an ad for them in our Classifieds! We have reasonable rates, and you’ll have prompt results! Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for rates and other info.

Legislator Arnold W. Drucker with pet food collected at the annual legislative pet food drive.

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) hosted his first tax grievance workshop of 2019 at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library on Thursday, Jan. 10, and at the same time, supported a regional food bank’s pet food drive in the process.

Not only did scores of residents learn how to grieve their taxes during a presentation by the Assessment Review Commission, attendees donated more than 100 pounds of pet food and supplies for Baxter’s Pet Pantry as part of Long Island Cares’ eighth annual Legislative Pet Food Drive.

The community’s generosity will be especially impactful as federal employees on Long Island grapple with working without pay or being furloughed during a weeks-long partial shutdown

of the federal government.

“For many of us, pets are an integral part of our families. When financial difficulties arise, every member of the household struggles,” Legislator Drucker said. “Long Island Cares’ Legislative Pet Food Drive has always benefitted families facing hard times, but it is more impactful than ever due to the government shutdown. That is why I am especially proud to once again support this worthwhile campaign.”

Contact Legislator Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 or adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov for additional grievance workshop dates and information about how to support the Legislative Pet Food Drive. For additional details about Baxter’s Pet Pantry, visit www.licares. org.

Bethpage woman arrested in date robbery

Levittown men arrested on drug charges

Nassau County Police arrested a Bethpage woman and an Inwood man for allegedly robbing a victim during what was supposed to be social meeting.

According to detectives, Zohia Uddin, 17, of  Bethpage, and Shawn Ulloa, 19, of  Inwood, were arrested on Monday, January 21 at 11:55 pm at 125 Soloman Avenue Inwood without incident.

According to police, Uddin made arrangements with the male victim, 24, through social media to meet. Police say she entered the victim’s car and they drove to 223 W. Merrick Road for a drink. When the victim entered the store and was out of sight, Uddin allowed Shawn

Ulloa to enter the back seat of the vehicle where he secreted himself out of sight. When the victim got back into the car, Ulloa sat up, put his hand around the victim’s face and threatened him with a knife. He then demanded that the victim give Uddin his money, keys and cell phone. The victim complied. Police say both defendants fled the scene on foot and no injuries were reported. The investigation led to both defendants being charged with Robbery 1st and 2nd Degrees. Additionally, Shawn Ulloa is charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Dangerous Weapon.

Hicksville Community Council to meet

Hicksville Community Council will hold a general meeting on Thursday February 7,  at 7:00 pm at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 West Carl St. On the agenda will be: Seritage

Properties (previously the Sears location). There will be discussion about the latest proposal

Big changes are expected. Don’t miss this meeting!

Mercy League Military Bridge

The Glen Cove-Hicksville-Syosset Chapter of the Mercy League will be hosting a Military Bridge on Sunday, March 10, from  2-5 pm. (Doors open at 1:30)

The event will be held at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish, Hicksville. (Gym entrance on Nicolai St.)

Admission: $10

Contact: Roseann Nicotra @516-3205567 or Sherry Abt @ 516-721-2629 for more information.

The Mercy League is a volunteer organization that raises money for enrichment activities and equipment at Mercy Medical Center.

Nassau County Police arrested two Levittown men for allegedly possessing a large quantity of drugs on  Monday, January 14 at 8:14 pm in Levittown.

According to detectives, officers observed five occupants in a 2014 Honda that failed to stop at a stop sign on Polaris Drive. Police say the officers conducted a

traffic stop and subsequently the investigation led to the recovery of a loaded .38 handgun and approximately a half pound of a substance believed to marijuana that was located inside the vehicle.

Police say that two occupants of the vehicle confessed to possession and made admissions to further weapons and drugs located at a storage facility and a residence. Search warrants executed at defendant Jordan Tonis’s residence in Levittown and a storage locker located at 4040 Hempstead Turnpike Bethpage led to the recovery of approximately 298 alleged Xanax pills, 254 individually packaged e-cigarette cartridges containing alleged concentrated THC, approximately $1670  US currency, a large digital scale, a counting machine and a vacuum sealing machine.

Jordan Tonis, 21, is charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Assault 2nd degree, Criminal Possession of Marijuana, and for violating a Nassau County Stay Away Order five counts of Criminal Contempt.

David Niem, 19, of  Levittown is charged with three counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Menacing.

Zohia Uddin

Shawn Ulloa

Jordan Tonis

Chamber inducts board, honors community members

The evening’s honorees included (left to right) Legislator Tom McKevitt, Trina Reed on behalf of Levittown Library, Tara Cassano, Louise Cassano, newly-installed President Jon Probstein, Donald Patane, and Tom DiIorio. Missing from photo are Councilman Dennis Dunne, Sr., Bob Koenig for the Levittown Historical Society, and Timothy Aldridge.

The Levittown Chamber of Commerce, at its annual Installation of Officers and Directors, honored several community members for their service to the Chamber and the community.

Donald Patane was recognized with the President’s Award for the assistance he offered to outgoing President Joan Lynch, who succeeded him as president in 2016. Lynch thanked him for the advice and consistent reliability he provided.

The Levittown Public Library, Levittown Historical Society, and deejay/attorney Timothy Aldridge were honored for their Outstanding Community Service. Levittown Library Director Trina Reed accepted on behalf of the library and Bob Koenig, vice president of the Historical Society for that organization. Aldridge is well known for his interest in and generosity in providing deejay services throughout the communities of Levittown and Island Trees.

The Chamber recognized Thomas DiIorio as Citizen of the Year. DiIorio is president of the Lions Club of Levittown and is active in American Legion Post 1711 and VFW Post 9592. His military service and his service to the veterans’ organizations and the Chamber were cited as the grounds for the recognition given.

Nassau County Legislator Thomas McKevitt, Town of Hempstead Councilman Dennis Dunne, Sr., and Chamber of Commerce Office Manager Tara Cassano were presented with Special Appreciation Awards: McKevitt and Dunne for their commitment and service to the county and town; Cassano for her exceptional

quality of service to the chamber.

For her 25 years of service to the Chamber of Commerce, Louise Cassano was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award. Now a director and chair of several committees, Louise served as president of the Chamber in 2004 and 2005.

On a solemn note, the evening’s honors began with presentations to the families of Lois Cornibert and Eric Rosenblum, who passed away during last year. Accepting Lois’ award was her husband Gary, their son Gary and his wife Danielle. Accepting for Eric was his companion Gail Montello. Attorney and actor Jon Probstein (aka Jon Avner) was installed as the president of the Chamber of Commerce along with Michael Levy, owner of Minuteman Press/Levittown, as 1st vice president; Christine Sweeney, manager of Sterling Bank as 2nd vice president; Robert Ryan, Esq. as Counsel Secretary; and Frank Mormando as treasurer. The named officers include Joan Lynch, as immediate past president.

Installed as directors were: Donna Callegari, manager of Bethpage Federal Credit Union; Louise Cassano, principal of LuCas Communications; Matthew DiGregorio, commander of VFW Post 9592; Tom DiIorio, principal of Island Smart Home Inspections; Kathi Donnelly of Liberty Mutual Insurance Co., Brian Fielding, principal of Mobile Flicks 2U, Inc.; William Mullan, of LevitStyle; Donald Patane of Main Street Financial Group; William Powell of William J. Powell Associates, LLC and, Ann Torcivia of Friends Travel and The Joey Foundation.

Photos: Lobby, The Bristal at North Hills | Exterior, The Bristal at Garden City | Country Kitchen, The Bristal at Westbury

SkillsUSA brings community together with annual dinner

Culinary students worked hard in the kitchen to prepare a pasta dish for attendees.

Families, students, board members, and central and building administrators gathered at Levittown Memorial Education Center for an evening of delicious food and fun during Levittown’s Gerald R. Claps Career and Technical Center’s SkillsUSA Fundraiser Dinner on Jan. 10. SkillsUSA, an extracurricular club at GC Tech, is a national organization, serving students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations. The program also hosts local and national competitions in which students demonstrate occupational and leadership skills.

The Levittown chapter of SkillsUSA, advised by Kristina Cuomo and Jennifer Pernick, encouraged the community to attend the special event to support the SkillsUSA Student Scholarship Fund. Dinner was prepared and served by

GC Tech’s culinary arts students, led by instructor Lauren Reganato and respective culinary arts staff members. Attendees enjoyed salad, pasta with meatballs and a delicious dessert. Ms. Cuomo introduced the 2018-2019 SkillsUSA executive board which included seniors President Makayla Geoghegan, Vice President Gisselle Lugo, Secretary Ashley Bailey, Treasurer Rita Rogers, Reporter Ruby Hogan, Parliamentarian Zachary Martin, and club adviser Ryan Kushner.

The officers spoke during the event about SkillsUSA while a slideshow played. Attendees were encouraged to enter a raffle to win one of three big baskets and Geoghegan and Lugo facilitated a scavenger hunt game which allowed attendees to win extra prizes during the evening.

The 2018-2019 SkillsUSA executive board from Gerald R. Claps Career and Technical Center. Pictured are (left to right) Parliamentarian Zachary Martin, Reporter Ruby Hogan, Treasurer Rita Rogers, President Makayla Geoghegan, Vice President Gisselle Lugo, Secretary Ashley Bailey, and club adviser Ryan Kushner.

SkillsUSA President Makayla Geoghegan (right) and Vice President Gisselle Lugo (left) hosted a scavenger hunt game for attendees to enjoy.

Culinary student Oscar Martinez brought out the dessert.

Board Vice President Marianne Adrian (right) and her daughter, Northside Elementary School fourth grader Emma Adrian, won a prize during the evening's scavenger hunt.

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Levittown pilots new classroom designs, honors award winner

Pictured are the students and staff who presented at the Jan. 9 meeting. Also at the meeting, the Board of Education and administration honored 2018 Excelsior Award winner Michael Gunn.

At its Jan. 9 meeting, the Levittown Public Schools Board of Education received a special presentation from students and staff representing both Division Avenue and MacArthur High Schools. The presentation focused on the success of a pilot program this year in select high school classrooms that swapped standard desks and classroom setups for circular tables, stools, and whiteboard desks. These innovative classroom designs are meant to enhance

instruction and student engagement. Support for the new classroom designs was shared by the students and staff who were present at the meeting. This included Division Avenue High School teachers Stephanie Anastos and Sean Breves and students Cayla Brodsky, Kate Egan, Andrew Kiphart, and Meghan Yodice. Also, MacArthur High School teachers Marie Fischer and Joanna Sanford and students Adriana Recchia, Nina Scanze, and Rooman

Zahid. Benefits that were mentioned included:

• Tablemates tend to offer encouragement to other students, thereby fostering a sense of community and family among the class

• Encourages more discussion among students on the topic at hand

• Students feel more ownership towards what is being taught in the classroom

• Whiteboard desks reduce the need for paper during classroom assignments

• Teachers said it was easier to assess student progress and understanding in the new environment

• Students felt they could express their thoughts more freely

• Friendships were more readily being developed between students

1. To qualify for this offer, you must have a new or existing Platinum Savings account and enroll the account in this offer between 01/21/2019 and 03/22/2019. This offer is subject to change at any time, without notice. This offer is available only to Platinum Savings customers in the following states: CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, NJ, NY, SC and VA. In order to earn the Special Interest Rate of 2.08% (Special Rate), you must deposit $25,000 in new money (from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates) to the enrolled savings account and maintain a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 throughout the term of this offer. The corresponding Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for this offer is 2.10%. The Special Rate will be applied to the enrolled savings account for a period of 12 months, starting on the date the account is enrolled in the offer. However, for any day during that 12 month period that the daily account balance is less than the $25,000 minimum, the Special Rate will not apply and the interest rate will revert to the standard interest rate applicable to your Platinum Savings account. As of 12/10/2018, the standard interest rate and APY for a Platinum Savings account in CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, NJ, NY, SC and VA with an account balance of $0.01 to $99,999.99 is 0.03% (0.03% APY) and with an account balance of $100,000 and above is 0.05% (0.05% APY). Each tier shown reflects the current minimum daily collected balance required to obtain the applicable APY. Interest is compounded daily and paid monthly. The amount of interest earned is based on the daily collected balances in the account. Upon the expiration of the 12 month promotional period, standard interest rates apply. Minimum to open a Platinum Savings account is $25. A monthly service fee of $12 applies in any month the account falls below a $3,500 minimum daily balance. Fees may reduce earnings. Interest rates are variable and subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo may limit the amount you deposit to a Platinum Savings account to an aggregate of $1 million. Offer not available to Private Banking, Wealth, Business Banking or Wholesale customers. 2. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for accounts opened between 01/21/2019 and 03/22/2019. The 11-month New Dollar CD special requires a minimum of $25,000 brought to Wells Fargo from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank N.A., or its affiliates to earn the advertised APY. Public Funds and Wholesale accounts are not eligible for this offer. APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity. Interest is compounded daily. Payment of interest on CDs is based on term: For terms less than 12 months (365 days), interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or at maturity (the end of the term). For terms of 12 months or more, interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually,

Science Olympiad students get ready for competition

Science Olympiad students from Levittown’s Jonas E. Salk Middle School and Wisdom Lane Middle School prepared for their upcoming Science Olympiad regional competition by participating in a hands-on scrimmage event on Jan. 9. The students put their projects to the test and made any adjustments that they found necessary.

Science Olympiad is an organization which challenges students in the various science disciplines, allowing them to compete with students in their division through different tournaments. The scrimmage, which was hosted at Jonas E. Salk Middle School, gave students from both schools the opportunity to showcase their projects during specific event challenges such as the battery buggy, boomilever, elastic launch glider, mystery architecture and roller coaster. The scrimmage gave the teams a taste of what the competition will be like, the chance to time their projects and fix any issues.

Both Salk and Wisdom students will compete against other schools from throughout Nassau County during the Western Long Island Division B Regional

competition on Feb. 9 at Wisdom Lane Middle School. Both Levittown schools had winning teams at last years regional competition and qualified for the New York State Science Olympiad competition. Each hopes to qualify once again for states.

Jonas E. Salk Middle School Science Olympiad advisers Doug Neu and Paul Zaratin, along with Wisdom Lane Middle School Science Olympiad advisers Meghan Olsen and Vanessa Kowalczyk, supported the students during the event.

Kevin McDermott, science director of the Levittown Public Schools, explained that the scrimmage is not a competition to see who does best, but is more of a learning experience for the students as they prepare for February.

“It’s really about them coming in and trying their projects under different conditions so they can see if it’s actually going to work,” he said. “It might work once they build it but not work when they bring it somewhere else. They come in here, they try it under the real rules and conditions and then they can take it and make improvements. That’s the goal.”

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Science Olympiad students from Jonas E. Salk Middle School.

Jonas E. Salk Middle School eighth grader Gabriel Genna timed how quickly a marble would make it down his roller coaster.

Jonas E. Salk Middle School seventh graders Gia Tobie (right) and Renee Aquino with their battery buggy.

Science Olympiad students from Wisdom Lane Middle School.

Wisdom Lane Middle School seventh graders Karina Khindri, Jasper Ng and Jessica Bhandal tested their roller coaster during the scrimmage.

Levittown students spread holiday cheer

Members of the General Douglas MacArthur High School guitar ensemble performed for students at the Hagedorn Little Village School in Seaford.

Members of the General Douglas MacArthur High School acapella group, MacApella, along with the school’s guitar ensemble and six select chamber choir students from Jonas E. Salk Middle School, entertained students at the Hagedorn Little Village School in Seaford last month in honor of the holiday season.

MacArthur’s MacApella group, directed by Lisa Levenberg, MacArthur’s guitar ensemble, directed by Kenneth Walden, and choir students from Jonas E. Salk Middle School, directed by Lisa Grande, conducted four engaging holiday performances for the students at the school. In addition to performing, singing, and dancing with the students from

the Hagedorn Little Village School, the guitar ensemble allowed the students to try their instruments at the conclusion of each performance.

Photo courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

A teamwork lesson from Sparky

Sparky, the New York Islanders mascot, was on hand to give a lesson in teamwork at the Bethpage Union Free School District’s Charles Campagne Elementary School during an Islanderssponsored school assembly program on Dec. 5.

Hosted by Islanders Community Events Tour member Dina, students were treated to Islanders videos as well as a visit from Sparky. Following presentations, students and a teacher

volunteer, Mrs. Tarkin, demonstrated an activity in teamwork where groups were tasked with dressing an individual in hockey gear. Each student in the building was sent home with an Islanders fan pack.

Charles Campagne thanks Sparky and the community events team for bringing the lesson of teamwork to the students.

Students at Charles Campagne Elementary School cheered on Spark, the New York Islanders mascot, during an assembly on Dec. 5.

Students participated in a teamwork activity during a New York Islanders assembly on Dec. 5 with Sparky the mascot.

Free musical performances at local libraries

The Town of Oyster Bay's Distinguished Artists Concert Series will host multiple performances throughout the month of February 2019 at local libraries throughout the Town.

“The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Tom Hand. “I encourage residents to take advantage of these wonderful performances offered by the Town for free at local libraries.”

Scheduled performances for February 2019 include:

• Vinny St. Marten & The Seeing Eye Dog Band on Sunday, February 3, 2019 at 2 pm in the Locust Valley Library – A Tribute to Ray Charles.

• Sugar & Spice Soul Band on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 8 pm in the Plainview- Old Bethpage Public

Library – A Tribute to Motown and R&B.

• Breakdown on Sunday, February 10, 2019 at 2:30 pm in the Farmingdale Public Library – A Tribute to Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers.

• Di Napoli on Sunday, February 17, 2019 at 1 pm in the Massapequa Public Library – Italian and American songs.

• Rave On! on Sunday, February 24, 2019 at 2 pm in the Jericho Public Library – A Tribute to Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and the Legends of Rock n’ Roll.

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.

New York Islanders mascot Sparky entertained students at Charles Campagne Elementary School during an assembly on Dec. 5.

Photos courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

4 Days Adventure from Marrakech to the Sahara

BY DAVE E. LEIBERMAN AND LAINI MIRAND TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Everything about a trip from Marrakech to the Sahara is epic. We didn’t know if we would drive ourselves or hire a tour, so from finding the right desert guide, then traveling the 8+ hours through roads filled with switchbacks and harrowing drivers, to the climactic landscape of red-hot sand dunes reaching literally as far as your eyes could follow, this was an adventure we could never have anticipated.

There are several ways to do this trip. You can book a trip online through Tripadvisor, Getyourguide, Viator, or any of the other aggregator sites with real reviews. The average price we found was around $250/person. Or, you can wait until you arrive in the country and try to haggle a better deal through your riad/ guesthouse, or any of the endless storefronts advertising excursions to the desert.

With four days or more, you will be able to experience more of the desert landscape and not feel quite as rushed. Since we knew we wanted to spend a night in Aït Benhaddou, we made our own way there by bus and had our riad host arrange our desert excursion from that point.

Our main advice is to budget at least 4 days. Anything less and you won’t really experience the heart of the Moroccan Sahara. All standard 3-day desert tours offer the same basic itinerary: Day 1: Leave Marrakech early AM, arrive in Aït Benhaddou

in time for lunch, quick tour of the Kasbah then back on the bus, pass through Ourzazate for a brief visit, then overnight at a hotel or riad in Dades Valley. Day 2: Full day drive to Merzouga, stopping in the old town of Tinghir (a guided tour will probably take you to a berber carpet showroom). Arrive in Merzouga just before sunset, Berber guides will escort you on camels into the desert sand dunes, have dinner in the camp, sleep overnight in a tent or on a wool

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4 Days Adventure from Marrakech to the Sahara

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blanket on the sand. Day 3: Leave just before dawn to return to Merzouga where you’ll meet your driver for the 9 hour ride back to Marrakech. Some trips will give you a little more time in the morning to experience the dunes in the daylight for an extra fee. Absolutely do this if you have the offer. Here is what we did, what we learned, and tips that we wished we’d had before we went...

Day 1 - Aït Benhaddou

This fortified ancient village, currently home to only five families, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and also the set of Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and other epic dramas. We took the CTM bus from Marrakech to the village of Wade Melah, where the host of our riad met us to drive us to the old town of Aït Benhaddou. No one knows exactly how old the town is, but they estimate that it dates back at least 500 years, and looks much older. It was once a hub of Jewish and Berber people who lived harmoniously in the town. In fact, if you stay in the Riad Dar El Haja, you will be staying in the former home of the old village’s Rabbi and his family, which we were told is one of only two guesthouses in

the Kasbah. Today this riad features several well-appointed rooms with comfortable beds, ensuite bathrooms with hot water, 2 terraces to enjoy dinner or breakfast al fresco, and an original natural cave that makes a magical setting for a tagine dinner cooked on premise (breakfast is included in the stay, 3-course dinner was about 13 Euros/ person).

Getting There:

Luxury: In Marrakech you can find several private taxis or tour companies that will take you directly to Aït Benhaddou. We were quoted prices between 1500-4000 MAD, haggling mandatory.

Budget: Take the CMT bus from Marrakech to Ouarzazate (100 MAD), then a taxi to Aït Benhaddou (~90 MAD). Or you can try to convince your bus driver to drop you off in Wade Melah as we did, to meet someone from your riad willing to pick you up.

Adventure: Rent a car in Marrakech. You can drop the car off in Ouarzazate if you decide to join a tour to the desert, or go rogue and try it all on your own. The road from Marrakech to ABH is insane with about 2 hours of tight switchbacks as you pass the Tizi n’Tichka, but if you’re a (very) comfortable stick driver it seemed like it would be a lot of fun to drive, IN THE DAYLIGHT. The

roads between Tinghir and Merzouga are more harrowing and we were happy we opted for the tour.

Our tips:

• Stay the night: Most tour buses arrive at the Kasbah around noon and leave around 3 or 4, so spending the night before means you have the old town virtually to yourselves in the morning, and you can see the Kasbah before the stalls open for the day.

• Break up the drive to the desert: Make Aït Benhaddou a onenight stop on a longer desert tour to break up your first or last day of the 8+ hour drive (more on this below).

• Catch the sunrise: Most tourists seemed to hike to the top of the Kasbah for the sunrise. For an even wilder 360-degree view, walk out of the Kasbah toward the big hill at the base of the east part of the town (right next to the famous filming spot of Gladiator and Game of Thrones), and watch the sunrise to the east with a movie-perfect view of the Kasbah to your west.

• Lunch away from the main bus pick-up area: Most people meeting their tour groups seemed to be directed to the main large hotel/

restaurant complex, which all had long waits and apparently mediocre food. We had an excellent lunch of lamb and prune tagine and Merguez sausage at Riad Maktoub, just down the road. This is also a highly-rated riad, if you decide to stay across the river from the Kasbah.

• Day 2

Rashid, our riad host, referred us to a 3-day small group tour with Nature Dream, that we were able to join in Aït Benhaddou (they had started in Marrakech at 7am that same morning, arrived at noon for lunch and had 2 hours to tour the Kasbah before getting back on the bus). We joined 4 other young travelers in an old van and drove to Boumalne Dades, an area of dramatic mountains and breathtaking views at every turn.

Our Tips:

• If you do go with a tour, ask ahead of time about your accommodations. Once we entered Boumalne Dades we saw many cool-looking riads with incredible views. The one arranged by our tour company was not one of these, although it ended up being all we needed for a quick night’s sleep with the typical chicken and vegetable tagine dinner.

• If you drive here on your own, make sure you arrive before sunset because the views are really worth seeing in sunlight.

Day 3

We left our riad at 8 am and drove to Tinghir, where we met a lovely guide named Rachid. He showed us around the Kasbah and informed us about its history as a Jewish and Berber community until 1948 when the Jewish people left for Israel or larger Moroccan cities. Now the Kasbah is mostly abandoned, inhabited by nomads helped by those in the village who give them jobs in the farms and share their food. There are now only about 15 families living in the Kasbah, with close to 1 million people occupying the greater city of Tinghir.

While in the Kasbah we were taken to a home of several families that specialized in Berber rugs. We were given the classic “Berber Whiskey” (mint tea), and learned about traditional rug-making, from the way the wool is cleaned and spun, to the pigments used to tint it, and the meanings beyond different typical Berber rug designs.

Rachid then took us to Todra Gorge, and then to a nice lunch spot nearby. We would recommend contacting Rachid even if you do not do a tour, as he was one of the sweeter, more gentle people we encountered in our 3 days, and his English is excellent (Spanish is even better). He lives in the greater village of Tinghir and often takes groups hiking and climbing in Todra Gorge, and if you have a few days he’ll take you to visit the nomadic families living

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Ait Ben Haddou at dawn, looking just as it did over a dozen centuries ago. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ait Ben Haddou has been the set of Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

deeper in the caves.  (Rachid Haddi: +212629460239 whatsapp).

Our tip:

• The range for rugs in each of the small villages we visited fluctuated from 6000MAD (1000 MAD equals $104) down to 2000MAD for a 4 x 6 ft rug. The general rule of thumb seemed to be to suggest at most 1/3

of the first asking price, and walk away until they meet you close to your price.

Day 3 Continued:

After lunch we left Rachid and continued to Merzouga. We had learned from Rachid that wet season is August to October, and we definitely experienced this first hand during this part of the drive. There are 3 roads to Tinghir.

WRITER’S CORNER

Eufy and Me

BY JON MULFORD

I hate housekeeping.

Particularly cleaning. Yes, outside help is available for the big jobs but it’s the day to day stuff that’s irritating. Although I’m no Oscar Madison of the “Odd Couple” (I think), my new bachelor flat needs attention - but how to clean without spending time cleaning?

Son Peter posed a solution: his robotic vacuum cleaner, he said, scoots around sucking up debris and returns home to its charging station when the battery runs low. What’s not to like about that? May as well give it a try.

Eufy robovac arrived a few days ago. It’s the size of a small pizza, a couple of inches thick. Setup was ok once you realized that the Quick Start Guide didn’t tell you how actually to start the thing. The Owner’s Manual did say “Download the Eufy home app and follow the instructions to complete the wifi connection.” Wifi connection? For a vacuum? I should’ve been suspicious since many online purchasers simulta-

neously bought an Amazon Dot. Great to assuage cleanliness angst while you’re in, say, Bangalore?

I didn’t download the app, nor did I feel the need to command Eufy via the Dot or Google Assistant or - whatever - despite its incessantly flashing blue wifi light telling me it’s “awaiting connection.” Why, since its remote control can tell Eufy to start or return home, go where you tell it to go, clean only edges, or pirouette over a single spot? Or you can send it to work by simply touching it.

Eufy doesn’t like rug tassels or objects less than 5/8 inches high. Its charging station, back against the wall, wants a clear area with a 6 ft. radius in front - a bit extravagant for a 1 - bedroom flat. But Eufy knows its shortcomings and thoughtfully provides tiebacks for its electrical wires, and boundary strips to divert it from undesirable neighborhoods.

So, let’s try it out. Once charged and touched - Eureka - Eufy started scuttling around, bouncing off solid objects,

rotor brushes whirring. I then went for a walk anticipating, smugly, returning to a cleaner place. But upon my return all was quiet and Eufy hadn’t returned to its charger. Where was Eufy? Not in sight, for sure - must be under something.

I tried calling: Yoo Hoo, Eufy, where are you? Wo bist du? Donde esta? Nothing. But - aha - Mr. Remote has a button that tells Eufy to go home. Diogenes had his lantern; I had my remote: both of us walked around seeking; neither of us found what we were looking for.

Searched, now on hands and knees (think this was easy?) under couches, chairs, beds, and anything that Eufy might have been able to creep under. Yes, there was Eufy stuck under the couch in the bedroom.

In subsequent expeditions Eufy got trapped under a recliner and hung up on a cocktail table leg - by which time I coveted getting hung over with multiple cocktails. Eufy never made it home on its own.

We took the most direct route in the middle, which passes through many small towns on little maintained roads. Because of recent storms, many roads were completely flooded and may have been unpassable in standard cars. Even with a driver from the Sahara with 20+ years experience driving tour groups, See page D5

Should I Eufy - proof the flat to make it happy? Or, revert to relying on two Dust Busters, one Shark sweeper, and an ancient Sears canister vac. (no wifi required)? Gritting my teeth, I opted for Eufy - proofing. After all, if I could years ago baby - proof a house to protect my tiny kids from themselves, surely I could handle a vacuum cleaner?

And, so far, so good. Eufy really does clean although it occasionally misbehaves. When stuck it gives ten plaintive beeps which make it easier to rescue if you’re within hearing range. But, like a small child running around, best not to leave it home alone.

Still, the larger contemporary issue is - Wifi for a vacuum cleaner - that otherwise can be controlled manually, or with (gasp) a remote? Is wifi control of vacuuming a wonder of our digital age? An unintended consequence? Or just plain silly?

Maybe I’ll just give in to my inner Oscar Madison.

YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY

SSA Shortchanged Some Widows

BY TOM MARGENAU

Last year, the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General completed an audit and issued a report critical of how the agency handled claims from widows. It said that SSA clerks were doing a poor job of informing widows that they had the option of taking widow’s benefits at 66 and delaying starting their own benefits until 70 -- at which point they would get a 32 percent “delayed retirement credit” added to their checks.

Based on a rather small sample of 50 beneficiaries, OIG estimated that about 9,000 women nationwide would have been eligible for a higher monthly benefit amount had they delayed their retirement application for their own benefits until age 70.

SSA officials essentially agreed with the report. The inspector general recommended the agency fix the situation for those 50 beneficiaries used as examples in the report, remind employees to discuss the option of delaying benefits with widows and widowers, and determine whether it should develop additional controls to ensure employees inform people of their options.

Before I go on, I want to make something crystal clear. Even though the numbers in the OIG report sound big, there are about 6 million women getting widow’s benefits, and almost all of them are being paid correctly. For example, the report is not talking about the vast majority of women who become widows later in life -- in their late 60s or 70s or beyond. Whatever widow’s benefits they might be getting are rather simply figured (simple for SSA’s computers, I mean) and there are no decisions about their own retirement benefits that need to be made. The report is talking about women who become widows generally before age 66 and who have a high enough benefit on their own work record so that the possibility of delaying their retirement benefits until age 70 becomes attractive.

Here’s an example. Mary is 62 years old. Her 68-year-old husband just died. He was getting a full retirement age benefit of $1,750 from Social Security. Mary is retired and wants to start drawing Social Security. And her own full retirement rate is $2,150. Her reduced benefit at 62 would be 75 percent of that or about $1,612. Her reduced widow’s rate would be about 82 percent of her husband’s benefit, $1,435. So initially Mary might think it would be best to go with the higher $1,612 benefit on her own record. But she also has the option of taking her widow’s rate now. She would start out getting the $1,435 amount. Then at 66, she could switch to her full retirement rate of $2,150. Or if she can continue to live on the $1,435 widow’s benefit, she could wait until age

70 and get 132 percent of her full retirement rate, or $2,838.

Today’s question comes from a woman whose situation doesn’t quite follow the kind highlighted in the OIG report. But it still is an example of a widow who was steered in the wrong direction by an SSA representative.

Q: I am a 78-year-old widow. My husband died when he was 42 and I was 40. I never remarried. Even though I was still working, I went to the Social Security office when I was 66. I wanted to file for widow’s benefits. The Social Security agent told me that because my husband had been dead for so long, they no longer had his records. He advised me to file on my own record, which I did. This has bothered me for years. Recently, I saw a column you wrote telling a widow to do just what I was told I couldn’t do. Now I wonder if I can get my widow’s benefits added to my own retirement. Could I get your thoughts on this?

A: I am afraid you were sadly and regrettably misled by that Social Security clerk 12 years ago. The Social Security Administration has records for everyone in the country going back to 1935. So to be told that your husband’s records no longer existed was not only wrong but downright shameful.

This would be a good time to re-emphasize a point I’ve made hundreds of times in this column. If you ever have any doubt about your possible eligibility for some kind of Social Security benefit, or if you just don’t feel comfortable with the information an SSA representative is giving you, (SET ITAL) always insist on filing a claim (END ITAL). You have every right to do so. And by filing an actual claim, you will get a formal and legal decision about your eligibility. You will not have to settle for some clerk’s opinion on the matter.

It’s just too bad you probably weren’t reading my column 12 years ago. Had you insisted on filing a widow’s claim, you would have received those benefits until you were 70, and when you could have switched to 132 percent of your own retirement benefit. But I’m afraid that is all water under the bridge.

You asked if you could now get your widow’s benefits added to your own retirement checks. And I’m sorry, but the answer is no. When you are due two benefits, you get the one that pays the higher rate, not both. And because you worked until past age 70, I’m sure your own benefit exceeds what you would be due as a widow.

So what can you do now? Normally, I would just tell you that it’s too late. Appeal rights usually end two months after a decision is rendered. In other words, when your retirement benefits were granted to you back at age 66, you would have had 60 days to challenge

that decision.

But you were ripped off to the tune of probably tens of thousands of dollars due to negligence. I suggest you go to your local SSA office. Demand to speak to the manager. Tell him or her your story. And mention that you heard that SSA’s inspector general recently issued a report chastising the agency for shortchanging widows like you. Ask him or

her if the agency has any plans to take care of women like you, and not just the 50 or so women who were identified in the study. I’m pretty sure there is nothing they can do. But I still think you should ruffle their feathers a bit!

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has the answer. Contact him at thomas.margenau@comcast.net. COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers on page D5

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

4 Days Adventure from Marrakech to the Sahara

Continued from page D3

we were still worried we wouldn’t make it several times and on one occasion our driver was harassed by a swarm of 20+ teenage boys trying to get 50 MAD for them to push his car across the road with the motor off. We saw a rental car with foreigners turn around at this point and I guess attempt a different way. We don’t have experience with the north and south routes, but by the look of the map they seemed like bigger roads if slightly less direct.

Finally around sunset we arrived at a riad in Merzouga, where we waited for our camels with about 30 other travelers who had been dropped off from similar tours. About half hour later, all of us were escorted on camels through the dunes of Merzouga to our camp in the middle of it all. We were surprised to be on the camels for an hour and a half (7 km)! Once at the camp we were assigned beds in 4 or 5 person tents, and had the expected chicken tagine dinner. The camp itself was very bare-bones, with no sheets or pillowcases, just one

wool blanket on top of a mattress and another for warmth in the night. We found the tents to be quite stuffy at night, and sleeping under the stars was in all ways the better alternative. The stars at night were spectacular. The air was crisp and cool, but not freezing, and if not for the scratchy wool blankets, it would have been a pretty magical night’s sleep.

Desert camps:

Luxury: We were quoted prices for a private driver for just the 2 of us, “stopping anywhere we wanted to”, with 3 days and 2 nights (1 in the desert), with luxury accommodations for 4000MAD/ person (1000 MAD equals $104). We got this driver down to 3000 MAD for more budget accommodations and private driver. Luxury accommodations seemed to have beautiful glamping-style beds with sheets in large private tents.

Standard: Just about every 3 day/2 night tour seems to spend one night at a hotel or riad in the Dades Valley (Boumalne Dades), stop on day 2 at Todra Gorge followed by a sunset camel ride out to the desert, camp overnight,

and drive 8hr 30min back to Marrakech on day 3, leaving the camp just after sunrise. These tours all include 2 night accommodations and breakfast and dinner, with lunch spots determined by the driver and paid individually by the travelers. Standard tours ranged from 1250 - 2500 MAD/person.

Budget: Since we joined a tour in Aït Benhaddou, we paid 900 MAD/person in a 6-person van and budget accommodations. Right as we arrived at the camp, our camp hosts told us we had the option to ride the camels back to

See page D6

from the mountain-like dune in the Sahara © Laini Miranda/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Crossword Answers

4 Days Adventure from Marrakech to the Sahara

Merzouga at 4:30am (before sunrise!), or be driven in their SUV over the dunes after sunset for 10 Euro/person. Of course opt for the latter or else you’ll miss the most spectacular time in the dunes. Or better yet, opt for a tour that has the van-ride back their default and doesn’t try to charge you for it.

Our tips:

• BYO Sheets: If you do go on a standard tour, this is a MUST: bring a cocoon travel sheet or sleepsack. We were really jealous of our tour friends who had heard this tip before-hand and enjoyed a full night’s sleep.

• Don’t bring food unless it’s sealed in an air-tight container. We saw a

• Head-wrap: Bring a thin scarf for the night and morning as it can get quite chilly and is nice to wrap around your head if sleeping out under the stars (you can pick this up for 30-40 MAD at every single stop along the way, or at any stall in any medina. Beware that the really cheap ones will bleed and stain your other clothes in the laundry). It also looks cool wrapped as a turban as you’re riding your camel.

• Sandboarding: If you’re comfortable on a snowboard and want the exercise (and amazing photos), rent a snowboard from Merzouga town before heading into the desert. Our camp hosts rented one to Dave for 200 MAD and brought it out in their truck while we rode the camels. Of course there are no

Pouring “Berber whiskey” (honey mint tea), a Moroccan ritual for welcoming guests © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

mouse in our tent earlier in the evening and woke up to see the plastic bag of our trail mix nibbled into, and one of our thin linen sweaters destroyed (still can’t imagine what was appetizing about that!).

ski lifts so you’ll have to trek up the highest dune with it yourself in order to get the best ride down.

Day 4

Our private dinner cave in Riad Dar El Haia in the Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

After catching the sunrise over Algeria and sandboarding a bit, we took the SUVs back to the riad where we were given the classic breakfast of Moroccan pancakes and bread with jams and honey, and had a chance to wash up in their WCs before the long haul back to Marrakech. They don’t supply towels, but if you bring your own you can even have a shower. The last day is a full driving day, stopping every 2-3 hours for our driver to have a coffee and take a quick break. As with most of the stops we had lunch at a random place on the route where other drivers brought their tours. Expect about 100 MAD/person for an app, entree, and dessert at each of the lunch spots (a la carte is not offered, but can be an option if you ask nicely).

We arrived back in Marrakech around 8:30pm, just enough time to settle at the riad where we had a relaxing dinner, and a much needed shower.

Our lodging tips:

• Riad Al Nour: In the Marrakech medina, Youssef and Younes will take great care of you while stay-

ing at their riad. They know the best street food spots and will even run out to pick something up for you if you want a relaxing dinner in their courtyard after your long trip back from the desert. The riad is gorgeous, beds are big and comfortable, showers are hot, and AC works! Book directly with the Riad to avoid booking fees

• Riad Dar El Haja: One of the few riads in Aït Benhaddou, enjoy a hot shower, big comfortable bed, great food, and epic location, on the actual set of Game of Thrones!

© 2019 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 @

Catholic Schools Week January 27th – February 2nd, 2019

What is Catholic Schools Week?

Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January, which in 2019 is January 27th, and runs through February 2nd. The theme for the Catholic Schools Week 2019 is “Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our church, our communities and our nation.

For more information, Calendars of Events and links to the schools, visit LICatholicElementarySchools.org.

OPEN HOUSES

St. Anne’s School - Garden City

25 Dartmouth St , Garden City , NY 11530 • (516) 352-1205

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 1 pm3 pm following the 11:45 am Catholic Schools Week Opening Mass

St. Joseph School - Garden City

450 Franklin Ave , Garden City , NY 11530 • (516) 747-2730

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 10 am - 12 noon following the 9 am Catholic Schools Week Opening Mass

St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School - Westbury

101 Maple Ave , Westbury , NY 11590 • (516) 333-0580

Open House Sunday, January 27th beginning at 2 pm

Our Lady of Mercy School - Hicksville

520 S Oyster Bay Rd , Hicksville , NY 11801 • (516) 433-7040

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 11:45 am - 2:00 pm following the 10:30 Catholic Schools Week Opening Mass / Wednesday, January 30th 9:30 - 10:30 am or 1:15 - 2 pm

Holy Family School - Hicksville

25 Fordham Ave , Hicksville , NY 11801 • (516) 938-3846

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 11:30 am - 2:00 pm following the 10:30 am Catholic Schools Week Opening Mass

St. Edward The Confessor School - Syosset 2 Teibrook Ave , Syosset , NY 11791

• (516) 921-7767

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm following the 9:30 Catholic Schools Week Opening Mass

St. Aidan School - Williston Park 510 Willis Ave , Williston Park , NY 11596 • (516) 746-6585

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 10 am - 12:30 pm following the 9 am Family Mass

Notre Dame School - New Hyde Park

25 Mayfair Rd , New Hyde Park , NY 11040 • (516) 354-5618

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 10 am - 1 pm following the 9 am Family Mass / Monday, January 28th 9:30 - 10:10 am or 1 - 2 pm / Tuesday, January 29th 9:30 - 10:30 am

Holy Child Academy*

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury, NY11568 • 516-626-9300

Open House Sunday, January 27th from 12 - 2 pm. RSVP to admissions@hcali.org

Janine Stiene, Speech-Language Pathologist, is owner and operator of the Suffolk Center for Speech And Myofunctional Therapy and Long Island Speech. Along with her exceptional group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island and Queens, specializing in: PROMPT, Myofunctional Therapy, Voice Disorders, Fluency, Augmentative Communications, Articulation, Auditory Processing Disorders and Expressive/Receptive Language Disorders (adults and children). Also offered is Feeding Therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions.

There are seven affiliated offices across Long Island, with the Lake Success office being conveniently located on Lakeville Road. All offices offer flexible hours and scheduling including evenings as well as Saturdays. It is also one of the only private practices that participates with most major health insurance companies.

Janine Stiene, former Speech Pathologist of the Hauppauge School District, has had her rapidly growing her business for over ten years. Her well equipped staff of LIcensed speech Pathologists and Myofunctional Therapists come from diverse educational backgrounds and top schools such as Long Island University, St. John’s University, Hofstra University, Molloy College, and more.

Open: Monday through Saturday, Daytime and Evenings. Please call for appointment availability. PARTICIPATING WITH MOSTMAJOR HEALTH INSURANCES.

LONG I SLAND SPEECH

444 Lakeville Road, Suite 202 Lake Success, NY 11042 (516) 216-1791

500 N o r t h B r oadway, Suite 141, Jericho, NY 11753 (516) 597-4344

w w w.LI s p eech.com

Holy Cross High School

Educating the Hearts and Minds of Young Men and Women

Holy Cross High School is dedicated to providing a challenging college preparatory education aligned with state and national criteria through various academic programs. A Holy Cross education is supported by the Four Pillars of Faith, Community, Service, and Wisdom. With over 50 electives and 25 advanced placement and honors courses, Holy Cross High School offers an inspiring selection of courses to spark new interests and allow students to carve a personalized career path.

Our graduates have a competitive edge in regards to scholarships and programs with colleges and universities throughout the country including the University of Notre Dame, Stonehill College, King’s College, Holy Cross College, St. Edward’s University, and the University of Portland.

Participating with most major health insurances

Saint Anne’s School

CELEBRATING OVER 65 YEARS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION

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

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

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

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

Students at St. Anne’s are also offered unique

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

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

25 Dartmouth Street, Garden City, NY 11530

Saint Anne’s School

25 Dartmouth St. Garden City, NY 11530

Catholic Schools Week Celebration 2019

Gravity and Creativity Prolong Products’ Useful Life

BY MARY HUNT

If you were to take a peek inside my refrigerator, you’d have to stand on your head to read labels. Food seems to last longer when stored upside-down in a container with a tightly fitting lid. It’s something about the food sealing itself. All I know is it works. I can’t remember the last time I had to toss out sour cream, cottage cheese, etc. due to spoiling. Our first reader tip has the same idea but for different reasons. Genius!

NO-MESS PEANUT BUTTER MIXING

Dear Mary: Natural peanut butter separates and must be stirred thoroughly before the first use. That can make a big mess. To avoid this, I store the jar upside-down so that the oil is at the bottom of the jar. When I stir, the oil doesn’t run over. It also ensures that there won’t be peanut butter at the bottom of the jar that didn’t get thoroughly mixed. -- Jill

PUT FLEECE SCRAPS TO USE

Dear Mary: I have found many uses for fleece fabric scraps. They are the best dust cloths for my wood blinds and my floors. I have an old Swiffer that I never used because I didn’t want to purchase the wipes that go with it. Instead, I attach a piece of fleece. It works great for what I need. -- Meg

USING THIS FOR THAT

Dear Mary: I love it when household items can be used in multiple ways. The sticky labels on my new dishes came off with cooking spray, and the ballpoint ink stains on my kitchen cabinet laminate came off with hand sanitizer. -- Carolyn

DINING ROOM TABLE OPTIONS

Dear Mary: Instead of looking in furniture stores for a dining room table, try checking office supply stores or Craigslist for conference tables. Dining room tables of the size I need ran $1,200 and up, but when I looked for conference tables in the same style, I was able to find them for around $300. -- Harvey

A HOMEMADE SOLUTION\ FOR DRY HAIR

Dear Mary: Add extra shine,

volume and strength to your hair with liquid fruit pectin. I add one 3-ounce package of liquid fruit pectin to my shampoo and another to the conditioner. Stir and shake to mix the contents. It’s also a remedy for split ends. -- Gina

LEFTOVER SPECIAL OCCASION CEREAL

Dear Mary: I buy cereal whenever my grandkids come for a visit. After they leave, I take what’s left and put it through my blender. I put the crumbs in plastic bags to use as breading or fillers. You can do the same with crackers of all flavors, chips, pretzels and other snack foods. -- Donna

Mary invites questions, comments and tips at mary@everydaycheapskate. com, or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of “DebtProof Living,” released in 2014. COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS ...a sure way to get results.

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900

AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. FAX: 516-294-8924

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3 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

EMPLOYMENT

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Looking to sell items from your home?

to care for sick or elderly full time any days. Experienced in all phases. References and car available. Garden City references. Please call 516-437-1285

Consider doing an Online Auction!

1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”

2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com

Visa and MasterCard Accepted DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.

3) Fax 516-294-8924

Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

Nurses Aide

Excellent References Exp'd, reliable, mature Nurses Aide seeks private care in home for your loved one. Patient & understanding.

Please Call Audrey 646-479-2256

Ag Equip Operators: Operation, service & maintenance of manual & GPS farm eqpmt, including rippers, disks, plows, field cultivators, mechanical transplanters, water wheel planters, seeders & mechanical blueberry harvesters. Installation & operation of pumping stations, hose reel travelers, & irrigation eqpmt. 6 months exp req. $13.75/ hr. Free housing, tools provided at no cost to worker, transport & subsistence expenses pd upon completion of 50 percent of contract; Employment guaranteed for 3/4 of work period. Pastore Orchards, 626 S White Horse Pk, Elm NJ; Apply at nearest NJ Dept of Labor office & show this ad. Contact Workforce NJ One Stop Career Center 2 S Main St#1, Pleasantville, NJ 08232; Ref: Job Order #NJ1457465

BOOKKEEPER

part time position available at a fast paced CPA firm located in Lake Success. Looking for an organized self-motivated bookkeeper with QuickBooks, Excel and Word experience. Great opportunity for a candidate to get back into the workforce. Please email: estate@depiettocpas.com

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

DENTAL ASSISTANT

Part Time

Dental Assistant/Receptionist wanted for friendly Garden City Dental office. Afternoon hours 12-6pm Experience preferred. Please call 516-279-4251 or Email: dental11530@yahoo.com

FULL TIME LABORERS

24 temp full time Laborer needed Dover, PA 2/24/201912/22/2019. $13.15 per hr. 3 mths exp reqd. Take inventory, grade plants, prepare trees and shrubs for digging by tying or wrapping; dig; wrap burlap or other covering around root balls and secure with twine and/or staples; crimp wire baskets; lift, carry and load/unload nursery stock; move or load supplies. Harvest Christmas trees, apply coded tag to tree limbs, use chain saw to make level cut for grad of tree; function as part of string baler team; load trees on dump truck; stack trees on truck or semi-trailer and any other manual tasks involved in the production or harvesting of nursery stock and the maintenance of field and other production areas. Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs frequently. Guaranteed offer of employ for min. of 3/4 of workdays of total work contract period. Employer will: provide nec. tools supplies & equip at no cost to worker & housing for workers who cannot return to permanent residence at end of workday & reimburse worker for transport costs & subsistence to work site when completed 50% of work period. Raises and/or bonuses may be offered based on work performance, skill or tenure. HF,LLC Send resume to the nearest New York State Dept of Labor JO#12675052

If you currently care for your relatives or friends who have Medicaid or Medicare, you may be eligible to start working for them as a personal assistant. No Certificates needed. 347-462-2610 or 347-565-6200

NORTH COVE SAILING is hiring sailing instructors. Please email info@northcovesailing.com

Captains license reimbursement.

THE LOWELL SCHOOL

Immediate Openings

Teaching Assistant for 8th grade class.

Whitestone 718-352-2156

1:1 para for 11th grade student Flushing 718-445-4222

Salary commensurate with experience. Medical Benefits/Retirement Plan

SITUATION WANTED

BABYSITTER AVAILABLE

Experienced, hard working, kind, loving babysitter available 4-5 days a week in your home. Experienced with GC families 15 yrs. Excellent references. Driver with own car. Call 917-536-6536

CAREGIVER AVAILABLE

Experienced woman seeks full time position to care for your sick or elderly loved one. Live in. Very reliable, non driver, references available. Call May 516-292-2662

CERTIFIED HOME HEALTH

AIDE FULL TIME OR PART TIME Available. 25 years experience, light housekeeping, shopping, activities, appointments etc. Valid driver’s license.

Please call 516-236-1711

HOME HEALTH AIDE will take care of your loved one in their home. Experienced & honest. Licensed driver with own transportation. Call Flo 352-262-6970

HOME HEALTH CARE AIDE

Irish trained woman with 10 years experience and excellent checkable references available. Honest and reliable. Licensed driver with own transportation. Please call 516-383-7150

SEMI RETIRED PROFESSIONAL looking for part time work. Former Actuary. Analytical and detail oriented. Familiar with accounting. Knows Excel very well.

Please call Howard 917-288-4162 or email hlondon0131@gmail. com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

HAVE AN IDEA FOR AN INVENTION /NEW PRODUCT? We help everyday inventors try to patent and submit their ideas to companies! Call InventHelp, FREE INFORMATION! 888-4877074

CAREER TRAINING

AIRLINE CAREERS Start here. Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866296-7094

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

DIRECTV CHOICE All Included Package. Over 185 Channels! ONLY $45/month (for 24 mos.) Call Now Get NFL Sunday Ticket FREE! CALL 1-888-5346918 Ask us How to Bundle & Save!

FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CASH for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. 312-291-9169. www.refrigerantfinders.com

LUNG CANCER? And Age 60+? You and your family may be entitled to significant cash award. Call 866-951-9073 for information. No risk. No money out of pocket.

Get results!

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call the G.C. office at 294-8900 for more information.

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

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

Estate and Tag Sales Online Auctions

Cleanout and Moving Services

Home Staging Services Appraisals

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

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Oriental items, clothing, art, old & modern furniture, estates, jewelry, silver, glassware, dishes, old photos, coins & stamps, flatware. Call George 718-3861104 or 917-775-3048

TOP CASH PAID: JEWELRY, Furniture, Art, etc. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516-270-2128. www.iBuyAntiquesNYC.com

Pashmina Embroidered Scarfs, Alpaca Scarfs and Shawls, Artesian Jewelry, Enameled Bangles, Initial Necklaces, Provence, France Soaps & Hand Creams

BUBBA BROWN’S TREASURES

302 Main St.,Port Washington,NY 516-767-6200

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

EAST ROCKAWAY UFSD

Seeking Candidates for the Following Positions:

PUBLIC INFORMATION AIDE

[PART-TIME]

Salary:$20.00 per hour

Twelve (12) Month Position

Monday-Friday (17.45 Hours Per Week)

Hours:To Be Determined

Candidate must have one year of experience in writing press releases, researching,or script work in public relations, journalism, or advertising work.

SUBSTITUTE SECURITY AIDES

Salary:$15.00 per hour

(All Shifts Needed)

Candidate must have continuing possession of NYS registration as a security guard issued by the NYS Department of State. Security and/or law enforcement experience preferred.

SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVERS

Salary:$14.00 per hour

Please send letter of interest to:

Jacqueline A. Scrio

Place an ad for anything you need in our classifieds section! Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

Conversational, opinionated, wordsmith?

We are looking for writers in our community to compose news articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section.

MARKETPLACE

TAG SALE

*BROWSE

*SHOP

*CONSIGN A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

China, Silver, Crystal, Jewelry, Artwork, Furniture, Antiques, Collectibles

Tues-Fri 10-4

Sat 12-4

Every Tuesday: 10% Senior Citizen Discount.

All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society 109 Eleventh Street Garden City 11530 516-746-8900

MARKETPLACE

TAG SALE

WANTED! Comic books, toys, video games, Star Wars. 30’s through 90’s. Call 516-313-3237 or email: trustey1@gmail.com

WILLISTON PARK MOVING SALE EVERYTHING MUST GO Saturday 1/19 and 1/26 9:00am to 3:00pm 77 Shields Ave

Rain or Shine

Contents of house with furnishings (dining room, bedroom, living room), decor (lamps, brick brack) weights and bench and designer clothing

PETS

Candidate must possess a valid NYS driver's license and must satisfy all requirements of Article 19-A. (516) 887-8300 Ext. 1x553

E-mail submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info.

Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Operations 443 Ocean Ave., East Rockaway, NY 11518

Blank Slate media/ Litmor Publications

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words.

• Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

email: store@atstewartexchange.org www.gardencityhistoricalsociety. org

AVITAL GALLERY 336: Paintings, Royal Copenhagen, Rosenthal and more. Hours

Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 12-4, Friday 10-12 or by appointment. 770 Middle Neck road, Great Neck, NY 11024. 516-3045640 or call 516-528-9765. Free parking in back

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

multimedia account

Blank Slate Media, an award-winning group of weekly newspapers and websites, is seeking an account executive to sell display, web and email advertising as well as event and contest sponsorships.

Must have:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• A drive to succeed

• A passion for customer service

• Good computer skills and be internet savvy

• 2 years of outside sales experience. Previous media sales experience a plus

• Minimum of two years college

• A car

Benefits:

• Salary plus commission

• Uncapped earnings

• Protected territory

• Contact management system

• Advertising agency quality ads

• Health insurance

• Paid holidays and vacation

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

REAL ESTATE WANTED

HOMES WANTED

DO YOU HATE KENNELS? OR STRANGERS IN YOUR HOUSE?

HOME AWAY FROM HOME will care for your dog in my Garden City home while you are away.

Dog walking also available. Pet CPR & first Aid Certified. Numerous referrals and references. Limited availability. Book early!

Annmarie 516-775-4256

AUTOMOTIVE AUTO FOR SALE

2016 HONDA ACCORD

SEDAN

For Sale. Always Garaged. Silver. 16,000 Miles. Excellent Condition.

Call Lorraine 516-488-1037

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

DONATE YOUR CAR to Wheels For Wishes, benefitting Make-a-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 631-317-2014 Today!

GARDEN CITY AREA

Retired Garden City Couple looking for 2019 Summer Rental in GC area 2-3 months. Please call 516-697-6694 No Brokers Please

SERVICES

EARTHLINK HIGH SPEED

INTERNET as low as $14.95/ month (for the first 3 months). Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink today 1-855-970-1623.

GARDEN CITY BORDER

APARTMENT: Huge, bright 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt $2,070 + Electric, Avail 3/15/19. Gated parking, Laundry Room, Air Conditioning, Dishwasher, Hardwood Floors, LIRR, N O BROKER FEE.

www.gcbapts.com Voice or text: 516-524-6965

REAL ESTATE FOR

SALE

OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE

SEBASTIAN FLORIDA (East Coast)

Beach Cove is an Age Restricted Community where friends are easily made. Sebastian is an “Old Florida” fishing village with a quaint atmosphere yet excellent medical facilities, shopping and restaurants. Direct flights from Newark to Vero Beach. New manufactured homes from $114,900. 772-581-0080; www. beach-cove.com

ELIMINATE RATS / MICE-GUARANTEED! Buy Harris Baits, Traps, Repellents. Available: Hardware Stores, Buy Online: homedepot.com

GUARANTEED LIFE INSURANCE! (Ages 50 to 80). No medical exam. Affordable premiums never increase. Benefits never decrease. Policy will only be cancelled for non payment. 855686-5879

HARRIS 5 MINUTE BED

BUG KILLER

Professional Exterminator Formula. Available: Hardware Stores. BUY ONLINE: homedepot.com

PASSIONATE FOODIE AVAILABLE

Soon to be empty nester, former culinary graduate looking to get back into my passion. Available to cook in your home or mine. No time for grocery shopping? No problem, I will shop for you. References available. Call Elena 516-382-0393

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-855-977-7198

SERVICES

WALSH BROTHERS

TREE SERVICE

More than 30 years in business

Winter Rates Now Available Seasoned Firewood Licensed & Insured License # H2085020100 516-333-TREE (8733)

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ. Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates.com

COMPUTERS

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

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

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

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

SERVICES

MASONRY

All types of stonework

Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps.

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

HEALTH & FITNESS

FAMILY CARE

CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care

Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323

www.drannmariedangelo.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock

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

JOHN MIGLIACCIO

Licensed & Insured #80422100000

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

MICHELANGELO PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

CLASSIFIEDS

SERVICES

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY

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

TUTORING

MATH, SAT, ACT TUTOR: Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2 plus Trig, Pre-Calc, AP Calculus. Norm 625-3314

ENGLISH, ACT, SAT TUTOR: 25+ year experience Critical Reading, Writing, Grammar, Essays. Lynne 625-3314

PRIVATE TUTORING FOR GRADES K-6

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

CLEANING

CLEANING AVAILABLE

EXPERIENCED POLISH HOUSE CLEANER

Good references, ability. Very honest, reliable, responsible and hard working. Own transportation. English speaking. Flexible days and hours. Reasonable rates. I will do a good job. Call or text 516-589-5640

CLEANING SERVICES

AVAILABLE ! 10yrs experience cleaning home & offices. Great references. Specializing in laundry, ironing and deep cleaning. Love animals. Own transportation. Please call Erika 516-406-5680

STRONG ARM CLEANING:

Residential and commercial cleaning specialist, post construction clean ups, shipping and waxing floors, move ins and move outs. Free estimates. Bonded and insured. 516-5381125 www.strongarmcleaningny.com

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

COLLEGE ARTS ADMIS -

SIONS: College Counseling in the Visual and Performing Arts. Dance, Musical Theatre & Drama. Film, Instrumental & Vocal Music. Audio Recording & Production. Theatre Technology & Production. Visual & Graphic Arts. Resume, Essays, Repertoire Lists. Michele Zimmerman. 516-353-6255 CollegeArtsAdmissions@gmail.com www.CollegeArtsAdmissions. com

SERVICES

COMPLETE JUNK REMOVAL/DEMOLITION SERVICE: Strong Arm Contracting Inc. We haul anything and everything. Entire contents of home or office. We clean it up and take it away. Residential/Commercial. Bonded/Insured. Free estimates. 516-538-1125

DISH TV

$59.99 for 190 Channels $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installations, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-877-229-5789

Last Hope Bowlathon – Saturday, Feb. 2nd

Join us for a fun afternoon of bowling where all proceeds benefit the rescue efforts of Last Hope. Registration is $25 ($20 for children 7 and under) and includes two hours of bowling, bowling shoes, pizza and

Date – Saturday, February 2nd., 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Location – Levittown Lanes, 56 Tanners Lane, Levittown

Tickets can be purchased via Paypal at http://lasthopeanimalrescue.org/last-hope-bowlathon-sunday-feb-2nd/, or you can print and mail your registration with the event flyer available on our website http://lasthopeanimalrescue.org/. Ask your friends, family and co-workers to sponsor your bowling for even more impact with your participation.

Jewish center honors MLK Day with packing event

From page 1

like the personal care products and

toiletries are things people wouldn’t be able to receive with their SNAP Benefit cards, because that’s not something that covered.”

Funding for the event was provided by the UJA Federation of New York.

LI Blues Winter Classic

From page 1

are thrilled to have it at the state-ofthe-art Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center.”

The LI Blues Winter Classic is just one of the many special events held at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center.  The facility offers public skating sessions, and serves as home to hockey clubs, figure skaters and special events throughout the year.  The Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center is located at 1001 Stewart Avenue, adjacent to Bethpage Community Park.

For more information about the LI Blues Winter Classic and other programs at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, please visit www. oysterbaytown.com or call (516) 433RINK.

January 25, 2019

Students open their minds to storytelling with best-selling author

School fifth-grade raffle winners and teachers.

Fifth graders throughout the Levittown Public Schools received a visit from best-selling author Chris Grabenstein on Dec. 14 at the Levittown Memorial Education Center. Grabenstein wrote the book Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, which the students read during the summer as part of the district’s Summer Reading Extravaganza. The two engaging presentations held three schools at a time and focused on Grabenstein’s life, career and storytelling.

The students listened intently as Grabenstein journeyed the fifth graders through his life as a student, his love for writing, his background in advertisement and improvisational comedy and finally, his struggles in becoming a published author. During his presentations, Grabenstein showed his personal photos and taught students about rejection as he spoke about trying to achieve his dream and encouraged them to never give up.

The fifth graders also learned about

how Grabenstein finds story ideas, how to eliminate writers block, the power of a great first sentence, and how to make up a story on the spot, which he used the help of the audience for. Putting himself in the shoes of the students, he offered important tips and tricks for the fifth-graders to keep in mind while they write.

“The secret to writing is rewriting,” he told students. “No one gets it right the first time.”

At the conclusion of the presentations, students asked Grabenstein questions which helped them learn more about what it means to be an author. A select number of students from each school were also announced as raffle winners due to their participation in the district’s Summer Reading Extravaganza and received a goodie bag from Grabenstein before returning to the bus and heading back to their respective schools.

Summit Lane fifth grader Sophia Serrano (left) volunteered to help author Chris Grabenstein create a story.

"Try-Hockey-For-Free" program

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Town, in conjunction with the National Hockey League’s New York Rangers, will host a special “Try-Hockey-for-Free Program” on Sunday, February 17, from 9:30 am to 11:45 am, at the stateof-the-art Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage.  The event will allow children, ages 5 through 9, a unique opportunity to explore the sport of ice hockey.  In addition, time will be set aside for photo opportunities and autographs.

Try-Hockey-for-Free is designed for children with little or no prior skating experience.  New York Rangers alumni and Junior Rangers staff will lead

the one-day session, which includes free skate rentals and loaner equipment, a free Rangers hockey stick for children to take home and a post-skate meet-and-greet with former professional hockey players.  The program is limited to 75 participants and space is filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.  For additional dates, locations and registration, parents can visit https://www.nhl.com/rangers/community/junior-rangers-rookie-series.

“Children, under the watchful eye of professional staff, will be introduced to the exciting sport of ice hockey,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino.  “This free session provides parents the opportunity to

assess if the sport of ice hockey is a good fit for their child, without making an initial financial commitment.”

“This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to get the chance to play the greatest game on Earth,” said New York Rangers legend Adam Graves.  “These are kids that might not otherwise be able to experience the game of hockey.  They are sure to love it and hopefully this ignites a lifelong passion for the sport.”

The Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center is a year-round indoor recreational facility located at Bethpage Community Park, 1001 Stewart Avenue in Bethpage.  The facility features an NHL-size rink, profession-

al-grade dasher boards, locker rooms with showers, a four-paneled electronic scoreboard, elevated bleacher seating with excellent sight lines, a modern food concession, a brick fireplace and seating area, and a fully stocked pro and skate shop.  Yearround beginner/advanced hockey programs are available, including the Town’s own House League for ice hockey, as well as figure skating programs and public skate sessions. For more information about the TryHockey-for-Free program and other activities at the facility, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com or call (516) 433-RINK.

Author Chris Grabenstein spoke to Levittown fifth graders on Dec. 14.

Author Chris Grabenstein (right) with Northside Elementary

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County Of Nassau

L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. DOUGLAS VALLEY, et al, Defts.

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated June 26, 2018, I will sell at public auction at the Calendar Control Part (CCP) Courtroom of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr., Mineola, NY on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. prem. k/a School District 17, Section 11, Block 331, Lot 36. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. Index #605838/2017.

DALIA ZAZA, Referee.

LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 96101 MIT 5765

4X 01/04,11,18,25

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County Of Nassau

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, on behalf of the holders of CSMC Mortgage-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-5, Plaintiff AGAINST

Victor E. Paz AKA Victor E. Paz, Sr.; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated August 8, 2018 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, Calendar Control Part (CCP) 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York, 11501 on February 19, 2019 at 11:30AM, premises known as 75 Meadow Lane, Hicksville, NY 11801. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 46 Block 125 Lots 3 & 156. Approximate amount of judgment $953,155.51 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 4175-14.

Harold Damm, Esq., Referee Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: December 26, 2018

MIT 5768

4X 01/18,25,02/01,08

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County Of Nassau FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff Against

BARBARA TEDESCO FKA

BARBARA MONAHAN, AKA M. MONAHAN, FKA

BARBARA M. PELERITO, et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated October 05, 2016 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Calendar Control Part (CCP) Courtroom of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, on February 05, 2019 at 11:30AM, premises known as 4150 GLORIA ROAD, BETHPAGE, NY 11714. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION 52, BLOCK 317, LOT 15. Approximate amount of judgment $358,698.36 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment for Index# 689/2010.

SCOTT FARRELL GUARDINO, ESQ., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC

Attorney for Plaintiff 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221

BN 7353

4X 01/04,11,18,25

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County Of Nassau

U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST,

Plaintiff AGAINST

Gertrudes S. Zevallos and Lorenzo Zevallos, et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated November 14, 2018 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Calendar

LEGAL NOTICES

Control Part (CCP) Courtroom of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, on February 05, 2019 at 11:30AM, premises known as 341 BOUNDARY AVENUE, BETHPAGE, NY 11714. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION 49, BLOCK 211, LOT 21. Approximate amount of judgment $581,765.36 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment for Index# 612459/2017.

John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221

BN 7354

4X 01/04,11,18,25

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County Of Nassau U.S. BANK N.A., IN ITS CAPACITY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2005WMC1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, V. FRANK J. DIGIORGIO, ET AL.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated October 16, 2018, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein U.S. BANK N.A., IN IT’S CAPACITY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2005WMC1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES is the Plaintiff and FRANK J. DIGIORGIO, ET AL. are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the NASSAU SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE CALENDAR CONTROL PART, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 5, 2019 at 11:30 AM, premises known as 35 BARBARA STREET, BETHPAGE, NY 11714: Section 46, Block 135, Lot 83, 84, and 85: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT CENTRAL PARK, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 607026/2017.

Maria Sideris, Esq. - Referee.

RAS Boriskin, LLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

BN 7355 4X 01/04,11,18,25

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County Of Nassau

FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff Against MIN YEONG YUN, et al

Defendants

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 1400 Old Country Road, Suite C103, Westbury, NY 11590 Attorney (s) for Plaintiff (s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 18, 2016, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Calendar Control Part (CCP), Courtroom of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 5, 2019 at 11:30 AM. Premises known as 39 Jackson Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714. Sec 46 Block 108 Lot 711-713. ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Central Park, unincorporated area, in the Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $379,715.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 011842/12.

Ernest T Bartol, Esq., Referee VERNY700 BN 7356 4X 01/04,11,18,25

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County Of Nassau U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff, -againstRAJIV TANWAR; BANK

OF AMERICA, N.A. S/B/M FLEET NATIONAL BANK; GREEN HILL EQUITIES LLC; MANINDER SURI; MATTHEW PUTH, Index No. 14626/2013. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated, December 12, 2018 and entered with the Nassau County Clerk on December 17, 2018, Janine T. Lynam, Esq., the Appointed Referee, will sell the premises known as 4230 Florence Road, Bethpage, New York 11714 at public auction at the CCP (Calendar Control Part) Courtroom in the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York 11501, on February 19, 2019 at 11:30 A.M. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Plainview, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York known as Section: 52; Block: 313; Lot: 0011.0 will be sold subject to the provisions of filed Judgment, Index No. 14626/2013. The approximate amount of judgment is $532,164.10 plus interest and costs.

FRIEDMAN VARTOLO LLP

85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. BN 7357 4X 01/18,25,02/01,08

NOTICE TO BIDDERS Public Notice is hereby given that separate sealed BIDS for the 2018/2019 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM will be received until 11:00 a.m. prevailing time on February 13, 2019 at the Business Office of Bethpage UFSD, located at 10 Cherry Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The work shall be as follows:

CONTRACT #1

HVAC RECONSTRUCTION (SINGLE PRIME TRADE) BETHPAGE HIGH SCHOOL SED # 28-05-21-03-0-001-044 Plans and specifications may be examined and obtained at the Office of the Architect, John A. Grillo Architect P.C., (631-476-2161) located at 1213 Main Street, Port Jefferson, NY 11777, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily, except Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays on or after January

30, 2019

Any person or corporation desiring a copy of such plans and specifications shall make a deposit of $100.00 in the form of a business check (no cash accepted) made payable to the BETHPAGE UFSD, and upon making such deposit shall be furnished with one copy of the plans and specifications.

Any person or corporation duly submitting a proposal accompanied by the bid security required in this Notice to Bidders and in the Instructions to Bidders is entitled to the return of the full amount of the deposit provided the copy of the plans and specification used by such person or corporation is returned in good condition within thirty days following the award of the contract covered by such plans and specifications or the rejection of the bid of such person or corporation. Partial reimbursement, in an amount equal to the full amount of such deposit for one set of plans and specifications per any non-bidder or unsuccessful bidder not submitting the required bid security less ($100.00), shall be made for the return of all other copies of the plans and specifications in good condition within thirty days following the award of the contract or the rejection of the bids covered by such plans and specifications.

All deposits shall be forfeited to the School District if the plans and specifications are not returned in good condition with the (30) day period following the award of the contract or rejection of the bids.

Each Bidder must deposit, with their sealed bid, security in an amount not less than 10% of the base bid and all Alternate Bids in the proper form subject to the conditions set forth in the Instructions to Bidders

Attention of the Bidders is specifically directed to the minimum wage rates to be paid under the contract, as well as to other provisions set forth in the bidding documents.

Bidder will also be required to show, to the satisfaction of the Board of Education that they are carrying Workers’ Compensation Insurance as required by law and all other Insurance in amounts not less than that specified under the General Conditions.

Performance Bonds and Labor/ Material Bonds, as called for in the General Conditions are a requirement of each contract.

The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any or all bids submitted, to waive any informality or irregularity in any bid, and/ or to accept any bid in whole or in part and/ or to award or not award the contract, if in the opinion of the Board of Education, the best interest of the School district will thereby be served. This invitation is an offer to receive bids for a contract. The successful Bidder will be required to execute a formal contract in the form contained in the Contract Documents.

All bids received after the time stated in the Notice to Bidders will not be considered and will be returned unopened to the bidder. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail or in the handling of the mail by employees of the School District. Whether sent by mail or by means of personal delivery, the bidder assumes responsibility for having its bid deposited on time at the place specified.

Each Bidder shall agree to hold their bid price for (45) days after the formal bid opening.

Per Article 8, Section 220 of the New York State Labor Law, every contractor and sub-contractor shall submit to the School District within (30) days after issuance of its first payroll, and every thirty (30) days thereafter, a transcript of the original payroll record, as provided by this article, subscribed and affirmed as true under penalties of perjury.

The School District shall be required to receive and maintain such payroll records. The original payrolls or transcripts shall be preserved for (5) years from the completion of the work on the project.

BY ORDER OF:

BOARD OF EDUCATION

BETHPAGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

10 CHERRY LANE

BETHPAGE, NEW YORK 11714

ELENA BECKER DISTRICT CLERK

Fourteen DECA students qualify for states

Members of the Division Avenue High School DECA chapter participated in the DECA regional competition last month where 14 students qualified for the New York State DECA competition in March.

Members of the Division Avenue High School Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) chapter participated in the Nassau County Regional Competition at Freeport High School last month where fourteen Division Avenue students qualified to compete at the New York State Conference in Rochester in March.

DECA is an extracurricular business education program which helps prepare future leaders and entrepreneurs at the high school and college level across the globe. The regional competition brought students together from

high schools across Nassau County. Students competed in role playing scenarios ranging from marketing, finance, hospitality, and management, while in the presence of business professionals.

Division Avenue DECA members who placed at the state level under the leadership of adviser Mark Engels include Michael Avner, Molly Botros, Jackie Devaney, Ryan Dwyer, Nikhil Keer, Alex Lunetta, Amanpreet Minhas, Katherine Oswald, James Pizaro, Ryan Powers, Ethan Sochinsky, Danielle Spiegel, Sean Wolf, and Jamal Zafar

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Photo courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Learning about careers at OCR

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran gave OCR students some insight into how she started and advanced in government.

Professionals from the private and public sector stopped by Old Country Road Elementary School in Hicksville for the annual Career Day event.

Guest speakers included attorneys, government officials, a pharmacist, a photographer and a nurse, to name a few. There were even representatives from the Girl Scouts, the Hicksville Fire Department, and nearby Ikea. Some

of the presenters were OCR parents. Students were given an overview of the many different careers represented and were encouraged to pursue their interests.

OCR Career Day 2019 was coordinated by teacher Christine Palmieri. Special thanks to all those who stopped by to present to the students.

Mr. Golden of IKEA gave OCR students some insight into room design.

Nassau County Legislator Rose Walker stopped by to visit with classes at OCR School.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino talked about the many town services and opportunities in government with OCR students.

Yoga instructor Ms. Katz met with OCR students in the school gym.

Photos courtesy of the Hicksville School District

University of Alabama student Matthew Dossie of Old Bethpage will participate in UA’s Cooperative Education Program for spring 2019. Dossie will be working at Brasfield & Gorrie.

In the Cooperative Education Program, more than 230 students alternate periods of full-time study with periods of full-time employment. This program offers work related to the academic major or career interests of each student.

While in school, students carry regular course schedules. While on co-op, they work with professionals in their fields who supervise their training and work. At work, co-op students earn competitive salaries and may receive benefit packages in addition to valuable job experience. Participants maintain their full-time student status while at work and have priority registration status each semester through graduation.

n Benjamin Clingen of Hicksville has been named to the Dean’s List at Becker College for the fall semester. Clingen is pursuing a BA in interactive media design, computer game design concentration.

College Notes

SUNY Canton

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President Zvi Szafran recognizes Dylan R. Santiago of Bethpage for making the President’s List during the Fall 2018 semester. Santiago is a SUNY Canton game design and development major.

President’s List recognizes fulltime students who achieve a GPA of 3.75 or greater.

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The State University of New York at Potsdam recently named Fallon Blacharski of Glen Head to the SUNY Potsdam Dean’s List.

Blacharski, whose major is business administration, was among 366 students who were honored for academic excellence in the Fall 2018 semester.

To achieve the honor of being on the Dean’s List, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numerically-graded semester hours, with a

The Dean’s List recognizes all full-time students (24 or more credit hours earned for the academic year; 12 minimum each semester - September through May) whose term grade point average is 3.50 or higher with no grade below a B- and no incomplete (I) or withdrawal/failing (WF) grades.

Matching pajamas and books

Central Boulevard Elementary School collected more than 150 outfits in this year’s pajama drive to donate to Huntington’s Family Service League in partnership with Scholastic Book Club.

Central Boulevard Elementary School in the Bethpage Union Free School District continued its tradition of hosting a pajama drive in partnership with Scholastic Book Club.

Each year, students, staff and community members are asked to bring in pajamas during the month of December for children in need. For every set of pajamas contributed, Scholastic match-

grade point average of between 3.25 and 3.49 in the given semester.

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The State University of New York at Potsdam recently named Brianna Lydon of Bethpage, NY to the SUNY Potsdam Dean’s List.

Lydon, whose major is speech communication, was among 366 students who were honored for academic excellence in the Fall 2018 semester.

To achieve the honor of being on the Dean’s List, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numerically-graded semester hours, with a grade point average of between 3.25 and 3.49 in the given semester.

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Daniel Iscenko of Old Bethpage, an advertising, public relations, and technology major at New York Institute of Technology, worked as part of a student-run public relations team supporting local nonprofits including the Congregational Church of Manhasset, General Needs, and the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island.

Iscenko was selected for the marketing communications project as a member of the Carleton Group, an experiential education program that pairs skilled students with local non-profit organizations to help with specific needs. Student consultants serve their clients while building skills such as writing for the media, design, relationship management, and teamwork.

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Curry College is proud to announce that Grant Micari of Plainview has been named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2018 semester.

To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a 3.30 GPA, have no incompletes, and have no grade lower than a “C” for the semester

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Zachary Schmidt of Levittown has been named to the Fall 2018 Dean’s List at Kutztown University.

More than 1,740 students have been named to the Fall 2018 Dean’s List at Kutztown University. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, an undergraduate student must be registered for at least 12 credits and have a minimum grade point average of 3.60.

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Photos courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

es the donation with a book. This year, the school was able to collect more than 150 pajama outfits for the Family Service League in Huntington.

“It’s a good feeling to help make sure more children will be warm this year,” said second-grade teacher Lauri Holt.

“This is a cause that is near and dear to our hearts at Central Boulevard.”

College.

Hammervik is studying in the criminal justice academic program at the Troy, NY college.

Each fall and spring term, the college’s President’s List names those full-time students and part-time students registered for at least six college credits who have a term average of between 3.5 and 4.0 and who received no grade of “D,” “F,” “I,” “Z,” or “W” on their record for that term. Students must have completed at least 12 college credits successfully.

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Reeba Joy of Hicksville was named to the Fall 2018 President’s List at Hudson Valley Community College. Joy is studying in the accounting academic program at the Troy, NY college.

Each fall and spring term, the college’s President’s List names those full-time students and part-time students registered for at least six college credits who have a term average of between 3.5 and 4.0 and who received no grade of “D,” “F,” “I,” “Z,” or “W” on their record for that term. Students must have completed at least 12 college credits successfully.

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Michael Vangi, an electrical and computer engineering major from Plainview, traveled with three teammates from New York Institute of Technology in Long Island to Taiwan for the AI Taoyuan Taiwan International Robotics Tournament, where they ran Taiwan’s first VEX Robotics Competition for high schoolers.

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Hats off to the nearly 600 candidates for December graduation at Emporia State University. Jessica Foley of Bethpage, New York, graduated with a Master of Science degree in health, physical education, & recreation.

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Lajja Gajjar, a health and wellness student from Hicksville earning a BS degree at New York Institute of Technology, completed a project this fall to help raise awareness for NYIT Accessibility Services of Old Westbury

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Kristian Hammervik of Bethpage was named to the Fall 2018 President’s List at Hudson Valley Community

Taylor Traenkle of Levittown, New York was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Traenkle was initiated at State University of New York at Cortland. Traenkle is among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

For thousands of patients and families, NYU Winthrop’s Center for Cancer Care has provided comprehensive leading edge care from diagnosis to survivorship. Here are just a few examples of our ongoing initiatives and leadership.

• Accredited by the Commission on Cancer for over 50 years

• Only robotic epicenter for lung surgery on Long Island

• A unique team approach tailored to each patient

• First nurse navigator program for cancer on Long Island

• Number one CyberKnife® radiation center in the country

• State-of-the-art infusion center adjacent to the hospital

• First low-dose CT screening program for lung cancer on Long Island