SERVING PLAINVIEW, HICKSVILLE, AND LEVIT TOWN
DRIVE-IN MOVIES
Assemblyman John Mikulin (R,C,I-Bethpage) joined Town of Hempstead Councilman Dennis Dunne, and Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino to support the Town of Oyster Bay drive-in movie event on Thursday, June 25 at Tobay Beach.
Assemblyman John Mikulin (R,C,I-Bethpage) was pleased to join Town of Hempstead Councilman
Dennis Dunne and Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor
Joseph Saladino to support the Town of Oyster Bay drive-in movie on Thursday, June 25 at Tobay Beach. The event, which showed the 1978 classic “Grease”, was packed with residents remaining in their cars for the showing to maintain social distancing orders.
20-year-old killed in auto accident
A 20-year-old man was killed in a crash on Wednesday, July 1 on Gardiner’s Avenue in Levittown. According to Nassau County Police, the driver of a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder lost control while driving northbound on Gardiner’s Avenue and struck a tree near Harbor Lane. A passenger, a 20-year-old woman, suffered serious trauma. Both the driver and passenger were transported to an area hospital. According to police there appears to be no criminality involved.
Two HHS seniors named National Merit Scholars
Hicksville High School seniors
Sarah Choi and Viveka Jain have been named as recipients of scholarships through the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
Sarah and Viveka qualified as semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program in the fall by scoring among the highest in the state on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test last year, ranking among the top 1% nationally. They were among 16,000 high school students to be named semifinalists from 1.5 million who took the exam
nationwide.
Sarah is the recipient of a National Merit Scholarship from Boston University. Approximately 180 colleges and universities finance some 4,100 college-sponsored awards for scholars like Sarah.
Viveka is the recipient of a National Merit Corporate Scholarship from Macy’s Inc. About 1,000 corporate-sponsored scholarships are being awarded by more than 200 corporations and business organizations this year. Viveka will attend New York University.
Bethpage man injured by fireworks
Nassau County Police responded to a Levittown address on Sunday, July 5 to assist a 20-year-old man who was injured by fireworks. According to police, the man accidentally detonated a firework in his hand, severely injuring the hand and an eye. He was treated at a local hospital for his injuries.
Viveka Jain
Sarah Choi
Schools meetings to remain virtual through the fall
BY RIKKI MASSAND
During the Thursday, July 2 Jericho Board of Education meeting held via Zoom, Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman announced that in-person meetings aren’t on the horizon for the district. Instead, every Jericho Public Schools’ Board of Education meeting, PTA meeting, parent-teacher meetings, student orientations and all other district meetings will be held only via Zoom and remote participation going forward, through at least October 2020 at which time meeting format plans will be evaluated.
“All district meetings for the first two months of the school year will be Zoom meetings, all our activities will be remote. We will assess the situation in September and October and then make a decision on what we’d be doing for November and December,” Superintendent Grishman said.
In a most unusual move for July, the Jericho school board planned another (Zoom) meeting -- a work session scheduled for Thursday evening, July 23 starting at 6 p.m.
Grishman notes that at the July 23 meeting the school board will be revising its schedule of meetings for 2020-’21 based on board members’ availability.
“At that meeting the board will re-adopt a meeting schedule for the coming school year in terms of regular meetings, work sessions and executive sessions,” he said.
Jericho’s school board typically has one business meeting per month with formal actions and votes taken and featured public presentations. In addition, sporadically there is usually a work session as well as executive sessions on dates the board agrees to hold them, sometimes in mornings.
Printed school district calendars for the upcoming year are typically mailed by early August but due to the pandemic, the district will hold off on printing its 2020-’21 calendars until August “once we
have a better idea of what the fall is going to look like,” the superintendent explains, as there could be changes, shifts or cancellations for some events.
Superintendent Grishman said that parents and students can still refer to the “overview” district calendar that is online on the district website, which still lists all days schools will be in-session and days it will be closed in the school year.
Children in Jericho Schools’ special education programs, those who through IEPs are educated by district staff 12 months a year (approximately 36 students currently in the district), will still have a summer in-person instructional program held at Cantiague Elementary School. “That program is up and running as of July 6 with Jericho staff members supporting our kids. We thank those staff members for volunteering to continue instruction for those kids who are in great need for a continuation of instruction,” Grishman explained.
Jericho kids do have the opportunity to continue playing on the school playground and passive athletic areas this summer.
“Realizing that summer activities are limited for our kids, the board of education made a decision that whereas we usually close the school grounds for the summer, this year we will leave all our playgrounds, track and tennis courts open during the summer,” Grishman stated on July 2.
He also reported that there are construction projects continuing at Jericho High School, Jericho Middle School and Jackson Elementary School.
At her first official meeting on July 2, School Board President Ferro welcomed the new Jericho Board of Education Trustee Divya Balachandar, who fills the seat that for 21 years Barbara Krieger held as she didn’t seek reelection. Balachandar along with Trustee Jill Citron were victorious in Jericho’s unprecedented vote-bymail school board election last month.
Free COVID antibody testing available
Nassau County Legislator Joshua A. Lafazan (Woodbury) is partnering with Advanced Cardiovascular Diagnostics to offer mobile COVID-19 antibody testing aboard their mobile testing facility, which will be stationed in the parking lot of the James H. Vernon School from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14. Cardiovascular screenings will also be offered in addition to COVID-19 testing.
“COVID-19 has profoundly impacted all of our lives during the past few months, and it is imperative to ensure that that curve remains flattened so that Nassau County can protect its residents and continue to safely re-open,” Legislator Lafazan said. “Antibody tests are an important tool we can use to protect our families and loved ones, and I’m pleased to work with Advanced Cardiovascular Diagnostics to bring
this convenient clinic to our community.”
Pre-registration is recommended. Walk-ups will be accepted as availability permits. Physical distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines will be strictly observed. In addition, please bring insurance information for billing purposes. If you have insurance, there will be no additional out-of-pocket expense. You will not have a copay and you will not be required to meet a deductible. If you are uninsured, testing is available at no cost.
Pre-register at https://joshualafazan714.youcanbook.me or call Rebecca at Advanced Cardiovascular Diagnostics at 516-329-4556 to schedule tests and screenings.
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.
Local libraries open with special precautions
BY GARY SIMEONE
As Long Island entered Phase 4 of part of the state’s reopening plan on Wednesday, more services have been made available to the public. Some of the businesses that reopened included outdoor arts and entertainment venues and aquariums at 33% capacity.
The Island’s libraries were not part of that plan and individual libraries have been opening their doors to the public.
The Jericho Public Library officially opened their doors on July 6 with many stipulations in place to ensure safety to the public.
Christina Brenner, library director at the Jericho Public Library, said that some of the stipulations include limited capacity inside the library mandatory wearing of masks and social distancing at all times.
“We are only allowing 25 patrons in the library at one time and we’ve instituted our browse grab and go policy to limit gatherings,” said Brenner.
The library has also taken away their seating area, and there is no computer services or in-house programs.
Curbside service, which was imple-
mented in mid-June, is still ongoing and virtual programming and other online services have become popular.
Brenner said that the library spent $30,000 last month on online materials to keep pace with the demand as the circulation nearly doubled.
“We were hearing from people that they really missed us, and we tried to provide them with what they needed during these unprecedented times.”
Brenner said she hopes as time goes on, the library can relax some of the new ordinances and let more people in the building and open up more programs.
Syosset Library Director Christine Belling said that since doors were reopened to the public on June 24, the library’s number of visitors is way down compared to usual.
“We had averaged about 900 to 1,000 people a day before the pandemic and now that number is down to about 300 since our reopening last month,” said Belling.
She added that the reduction in numbers didn’t mean less use as people were still taking advantage of the library’s curbside pickup services and drop-off of library materials.
Indoor dining returns to Long Island
Supervisor Joseph Saladino (center) joins with owners of Patrizia’s of Hicksville, Chamber of Commerce officials, Town officials Lou Imbroto, Laura Maier, Vicki Walsh and Jeff Pravato, as well as County Legislator Rose Marie Walker, to celebrate the ‘grand reopening’ of indoor dining.
Local officials recently joined to celebrate the return of indoor dining as the Long Island region entered into Phase 3 of reopening. The celebration was held at Patrizia’s of Hicksville, where owners and Chamber of Commerce officials marked the occasion with a ‘grand re-opening’ and ribbon cutting.
“We are so pleased to celebrate the return to indoor dining, for those who rather eat inside and especially those restaurants who may not be able to accommodate for outdoor dining,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor
Joseph Saladino. “Now it’s our turn as patrons to do what we have to do and support our local restaurants. After all, the success of our local businesses benefits us all.”
Councilman Imbroto added, “Dining at local restaurants helps revive our economy, puts people back to work and gets us back to a sense of normalcy, which many are longing for. The success of our local merchants directly correlates with the vitality of our neighborhoods and we are all pleased to support them.”
Bethpage educator honored for dedication to technology
Bethpage High School Spanish teacher Kathryn Oak was recently chosen by the Bethpage School District as a Nassau Association of School Technologists Award Recipient. She is pictured here with her students, Bethpage High School juniors Jamie Ferriso and Angela LaRusso. Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District
Bethpage High School Spanish teacher Kathryn Oak was recently chosen by the Bethpage School District as a Nassau Association of School Technologists Award Recipient. Presented by Nassau BOCES and the Nassau Association of School Technologists, NASTARS are chosen for their innovation, ability to seamlessly integrate technology and for their exemplary technology leadership.
Kathryn was nominated for the
award by Director of Technology for Bethpage Schools Andrew Choi, who describes her as an innovative educator. “Kathryn Oak effectively integrates the use of instructional technology into her Spanish Level 3, Level 4 Honors, and College Spanish classes,” said Choi. “Anything cutting-edge that the district has introduced, Kathryn has been one of the early adopters of the technology into her lessons.”
Syosset Central School District students competed in the annual Al Kalfus Long Island Math Fair on May 1, 2020. 46 students from H.B. Thompson MS, South Woods MS, and Syosset High School participated in this year’s event, held virtually, and won an impressive total of 46 individual and team medals!
Students conducted mathematical research on a topic of their choice advised by a teacher and presented their work to judges from academia and local industry. Syosset students won 17 gold, 16 silver and 13 bronze medals! Congratulations to all students and their teachers!
OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUALS CREATE OUTSTANDING COMMUNITIES
The dedication, compassion, and strength that The Bristal team displays daily is evident – especially to those who choose to call The Bristal home, as well as their families. The happiness and well-being of residents means everything to us, so their heartfelt appreciation is both powerful and motivating. We’re proud to share their sentiments for the outstanding individuals who make The Bristal such a special place.
We want to thank you for all you do to keep our Mom and all the residents safe! Your dedication and caring is so greatly appreciated at all times, but especially now. With all our love, respect, and admiration – Nancy W. & Marla K. (family members)
For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: THEBRISTAL.COM
AN ENGEL BURMAN COMMUNITY
The following students received degrees from Quinnipiac University:
From Bethpage:
Brianna Fehrenbach, Bachelor of Science in nursing;
Anthony Marino, Bachelor of Science in computer information systems;
Connor McDonald, Bachelor of Science in finance;
From East Norwich:
Danielle Ressa, Bachelor of Science in finance;
From Hicksville:
Achsah Abraham, Master of Science in cybersecurity;
Teresa Fava, Bachelor of Science in radiologic sciences;
Tracy Timque, Master of Health Science/Physican Assistant;
From Jericho:
Sophia Alfieri, Master of Science in interactive media and communications
Sydni Grossman, Doctor of Physical Therapy;
From Muttontown:
Nicholas Gulotta, Bachelor of Science in finance
From Plainview:
Carley Channin, Doctor of Physical Therapy;
Julia Costarella, Bachelor of Science in behavioral neuroscience;
Aqsa Kahloan, Master Teaching Secondary;
Abby Sang, Bachelor of Science in accounting
From Syosset:
Stephen Burke, Bachelor of Science in civil engineering
Zachary Cyran, Bachelor of Science in finance
Danielle Macedo, Bachelor of Science in health science studies
Shannon McCann, Bachelor of Science in psychology
Shweta Punjabi, Bachelor of Science in finance
n
Mark W. Cronin, Dean of the College, announced that Matthew Butigian, a business major in the Class of 2021 from Plainview, was named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2020 semester at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire.
To be eligible for this honor, a student must have achieved a grade point average of 3.3 or better in the semester with at least 12 credits of study which award a letter grade.
n
Jericho, resident Maria S. Grafas has been named to Husson University’s President’s List for the Spring 2020 semester.
Grafas is a sophomore who is currently enrolled in Husson’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
College Notes
Students who make the President’s List must carry at least 12 graded credit hours during the semester and earn a grade point average of 3.80 to 4.0 during the period.
n
James Madison University is pleased to announce that the following local students made the president’s list for the Spring 2020 semester. Students who earn President’s List honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of 3.900 or above.
From Syosset:
Sofia Sergi and Natalie Heberer
From Plainview:
Morgan Moritz
n
Congratulations to the following students who have been named to the Dean’s List for Spring 2020 at The College of Saint Rose:
Julia Fikar of Bethpage
Rebecca Ford of Bethpage
Robert Friedmann of Syosset
Leanne DeMartino of Levittown
Thea Mundy of Levittown
Isabella Matozzo of Levittown
n
Full-time undergraduate students who complete a minimum of 12 graded credit hours, and who achieve a semester average of 3.5 with no D, F, or Incomplete grade, are eligible for the Dean’s List.
n
Marissa F. Lembo of Plainview was among the 58 members of The University of Scranton’s undergraduate Class of 2020 honored for academic excellence, service or both. The awards were presented at a virtual Class Night on May 29.
Lembo, recipient of the Excellence in Health Administration Award, earned a bachelor’s degree in health administration with a double minor in business and counseling and human services. She is a member of Omega Beta Sigma and Pi Gamma Mu honor societies. She studied abroad in Italy, interned at St. Joseph Hospital on Long Island, and served as vice president of the Health Administration Society. After graduation, Lembo will pursue master’s degree in health administration at The University of Scranton. She is a graduate of Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset.
n
The following Adelphi University students were named to the Spring 2020 Dean’s List at Adelphi University.
The Dean’s List includes full-time students registered for 12 or more credits who have completed at least 9 graded credits and achieved a GPA of 3.5 or above for the semester.
Bethpage
Taylor Carpenter, Elizabeth Cobb,
Daniella Difino, Katie Domagala, Jenna Domagala, Gina Faiella, Ana Guerriero, Bridget Kammerer, Julia Katartzis, Justin Khan, Lara Klein, Madeline Kuhlke, Kyra Lamberti, Ashley Maderich, Jennifer Pomeroy, Holly Solomon and Junyoung Yuu
Old Bethpage
Kristin Gough, Quinneth Rutigliano, Nicole Sapuppo and Jamie Yonker Syosset
Christopher Amato, Osama Asghar, Alyssa Bonapace, Michael Chite, Jillian Hershman, Kristina Kallansrude, Eleni Kokoris, Steven Kueper, Shakoor Mahmood, Jake Malone, Eric Meirs, Kanchan Motwani, Gianna Romano, Edina Saljanin, Susanna Song, Scott Stachurski, Catherine Verveniotis and Jennifer Williams
Plainview
Kaitlyn Aquilina, John Benizzi, Lauren Cardilicchia, Thomas Flynn, Nicole Franco, Paul Golombek, Melanie Golubow, Amy Kappel, Alison Krinsky, Justin Mangibin, Francesca MauroWalsh, Mikayla Moerler, Jason Rosen, Kayla Schiavone, Dana Silverstein, Michael Tancredi, Samantha Vitti and Tova Zaretsky
Woodbury
Nikolina Dangeva, Cameryn Fried, and Joseph Mendez n
Western New England University is pleased to announce that Andrew Green of Plainview has been named to the President’s List for the spring semester 2020. Green is one of over 700 students to achieve this mark of academic excellence. Students are named to the President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.80 or higher.
Green is graduating with a BA in law & society.
n
Reeba Joy of Hicksville is a member of the Class of 2020 at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy.
Joy graduated from the accounting academic program and was one of more than 1,400 graduates for the Fall 2019 term or Spring 2020 term.
n
Cathryn Kramer of Levittown was named to the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Academic Honor Roll after competing for the Alvernia University Golden Wolves Women’s Basketball Team.
Kramer was one of 214 student-athletes to represent Alvernia University on the honor roll by excelling in the classroom with a semester GPA of 3.20 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher.
Kramer is currently studying nursing at Alvernia and is a graduate of Island Trees High School.
n Miranda Cintron of Levittown has
earned a Bachelor of Science degree in athletic training from Springfield College for studies completed in 2020.
n Congratulations to Tina Ceriello of Plainview for being named to the Spring 2020 Dean’s List at The College of Saint Rose!
Full-time undergraduate students who complete a minimum of 12 graded credit hours, and who achieve a semester average of 3.5 with no D, F, or Incomplete grade, are eligible for the Dean’s List.
n
Lorina Michele Amore of Old Bethpage has been named to the Deans’ List at the University of NebraskaLincoln for the spring semester of the 2019-20 academic year.
Amore, a sophomore communication studies major, was named to the Dean’s List for the College of Arts and Sciences.
n The following area students were named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2020 semester at Quinnipiac University:
Bethpage
Cole Caputo, Brianna Fehrenbach, Douglas Jaeger, Anthony Marino, Connor McDonald, Liam O’Leary, Timothy Powers, Alexa Schultz, and Kiera Walker
East Norwich
Danielle Ressa
Glen Head
Isabel Berliner, Alexandra Caldwell, Lauren Chieppa, Peter Fischetti, Elena Forsander, Angela Geraci, Max Henin, Sergio Maffettone, and Ryan Swiezbin
Hicksville
Emily DePaola, Michael Pitonza, and Ryan Wimbiscus
Levittown
Rebecca Johnston
Old Bethpage
Cristina Fiordimondo and Gillian Mintz
Plainview
Julia Costarella, Maya Narvekar, Abby Sang, Kyle Urban, and Renee Vulin
Syosset
Joseph Cotona, David Jurmann, Danielle Macedo, Shannon McCann, Shweta Punjabi and Gary Sautner
To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 with no grade lower than C. Full-time students must complete at least 14 credits in a semester, with at least 12 credits that have been graded on a letter grade basis (A through C) to be eligible. Part-time students must complete at least 6 credits during a semester.
This Week at the Syosset Public Library
Thursday, July 9 from 2 p.m.–3 p.m.
Long Island Naval History in Wartime
Presenter: Bill Bleyer, historian, author and former Newsday reporter
The lecture begins with the country’s first amphibious landing on Plum Island, the British blockade including the wreck of HMS Culloden; submarine warfare and the wreck of the British 22-gun sloop-of-war Sylph during the War of 1812; Confederate raiders capturing Union shipping just offshore during the Civil War; the sinking of the only American capital warship in World War I off Fire Island; and U-boats dropping off spies and attacking commercial vessels during World War II. No registration needed. Get Zoom meeting link at: https://www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming.
Thursday, July 9 from 4 p.m.–5 p.m. Collage Craft
Gather up any kind of paper you can
find from junk mail, to packaging, to your coffee holders. These items, combined with images from magazines, as well as drawings with pencils/markers, will be used to create a one-of-a-kind collage. Registration required. Go to www.syossetlibrary.org or email splprograms@syossetlibrary.org Presented by Leslie Sattler of Green Earth Craft
Friday, July 10 at 1 p.m.
The Ageless Olivia de Havilland Presenter: Marc Courtade, executive director, Huntington Arts Council Olivia de Havilland is one of 11 actresses to win two Academy Awards as Best Actress. This talk will trace her career from her contract days at Warner Brothers in the 1930s, her glory days as a film actress of the highest caliber in the 1940s, her sibling rivalry with her sister Joan Fontaine, her television work in the 1980s to her present day life in Paris at the age of 104. Get Zoom meeting link at: https://www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.
Title Swap Tuesdays:
Virtual event by Syosset Library
Best Books of Summer 2020 Edition
Tuesday, August 4 at 3 p.m.
Excited to hear about our favorite books? Join the Readers’ Services Department for fun, lively, genre-specific presentations of all the books we can’t
stop talking about. Leave with a list of great reads!
Free. No registration required. Join via Zoom from the link on the Virtual Calendar - www.syossetlibrary. org
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of formation of JCP MEDIACORP LLC, a domestic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on MAY 5TH, 2020.. Office location: NASSAU. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 1884 Muttontown road, Muttontown, NY 11791. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. SYO 4361
6X 07/03,10,17,24,31,08/07
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Jericho senior’s project featured at international conference
BY GARY SIMEONE
Richard Ren, a rising senior at Jericho High School, has spent the last few years researching and designing ways to combat our planet’s growing air pollution problem. He has developed a novel artificial intelligence framework to forecast Earth’s air quality. His work was recently accepted by the Air & Waste Management Association’s 113th annual conference.
“Air pollution causes a multitude of public health issues, including deaths from cardiovascular and respiratory causes and a devastating toll on the world’s economy,” said Ren. “By creating accurate forecasts and algorithms based on PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter), harmful public health effects could be mitigated by allowing governments and people to plan ahead and avoid exposure.”
Ren said his inspiration to work on this type of project was his grandparents who live in Beijing, China.
“I was concerned about the health of my grandparents who live in a city with some of the highest air pollution in the world,” said Ren. “It is a serious issue that I’d like to help solve for the health and well being of the people on this planet.”
He started working on his data collection and design models in 2018 and
came up with a holistic framework to study the effects of air pollution.
He utilized data from advanced machine learning algorithms, including neural networks random forecasts and logistic regressions.
“I looked at all the major factors within this comprehensive framework like meteorological weather data past air pollution data past air quality measurements and timing variables such as air pollution levels on weekdays and weekends and during different seasons.”
Ren ended up using a prototype of his framework to predict overall air quality as a result of the Los Angeles wildfires that occurred in 2019. His results showed good agreement between the frameworks predictions and real-life observations, with an overall 92% model accuracy.
Currently, the rising senior is drawing up designs to automatically publish predictions from his framework in a web and mobile application.
“I’m excited to keep on working on this air pollution framework to keep taking it to the next level to keep reprogramming retesting and reimplementing until I can make that accuracy count 100%. If I can save just one life with this project of mine, it will be well worth it,” said Ren.
July Virtual Events at the Jericho Public Library
Monday, July 13
2:00 p.m.: Profiles: The Urgency of Toni Morrison w/Dr. William Thierfelder
4:00 p.m.: Flex & Tone w/Mindy Vasta
7:00 p.m.: Fit & Fabulous w/Linda Ray
7:00 p.m.: Book Discussion of Freckle Juice ( Grades 1 & 2)
Tuesday, July 14
10:30 a.m.: Storytime w/Miss Liz
11:00 a.m.: Guided Meditation for Self Healing w/Patricia Anderson
5:30 p.m.: Teen Zumba
7:00 p.m.: Virtual Dream Interpretation w/Josephine Ghiringhelli, Psychic Medium
Wednesday, July 15
1:00 p.m.: Water Color Demonstration w/Chuck Van Horn
7:00 p.m.: Summer STEAM Camp: Engineering a Zipline w/Stemtastic
Thursday, July 16
5:30 p.m.: Yoga w/Joe
7:00 p.m.: Pajama Storytime (Children Ages 3-Kindergarten
Friday, July 17
2:00 p.m.: Great Performers: Warren Beatty w/Marc Courtade
3:00 p.m.: Prestino Magic Series (Ages 7 & up)
For all events go to www.jerichopubliclibrary.org/events/month to register
Let your voice be heard!
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Hicksville HS celebrates Class of 2020 virtually and
In an unprecedented school year, Hicksville High School celebrated its graduating class in unprecedented style. The school conducted a virtual commencement ceremony to allow administrators, board members and student leaders to share special words of praise and inspiration with the Class of 2020, while also enabling the grads to safely step up and be acknowledged in person for their years of hard work.
On the morning of June 27, the district streamed a virtual high school commencement ceremony on its website, which kicked off with senior Jessie Kash performing a wonderful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The ceremony included addresses by Principal Ray Williams, Superintendent of Schools Marianne Litzman, Board of Education members Kevin Carroll and Carla Hoene – both proud parents of graduating seniors – and valedictorian Sejal Gupta and salutatorian Alaha Nasari.
Many of the messages touched on the events of the past several months of the pandemic, and how the senior class has shown extraordinary character and perseverance.
“As you all get older and more experienced at this thing called ‘life,’ you will realize the challenges you face in life will make you better, stronger and ready for chal-
lenges yet to come,” Williams said. “What doesn’t break you will make you. I am proud of you all.”
“We may not get to walk across a stage or experience all of the milestones of being seniors, but our accomplishments are still cause for celebration,” said Alaha, who acknowledged the great diversity and accomplishments of the class, while also thanking the entire faculty and staff for their support through the years.
“I take incredible pride in graduating as a member of a class that has inspired me to embody my own intellectual capabilities,” she added.
In her valedictory address, Sejal gave fellow class members three valuable pieces of advice: create opportunities, invest time and make choices.
“Every difficult task takes time to turn the impossible into possible,” Sejal said, comparing the time she spent on her award-winning research project to various accomplishments others may achieve in the classroom, athletics, the arts and other areas.
“Explore many things,” she added, “then pick what you love and stick with it. Sejal also reminisced about the many special moments she and her classmates experi-
enced through their years in the Hicksville schools.
Before introducing the Class of 2020, Superintendent Litzman praised the class for living and thriving through some difficult moments in history.
“Your future – our future – is strong and hopeful because of the special character you have developed over the years, living and responding to every challenge thrown down before you,” Litzman said. “Thank you for enriching our lives with your smiles and perseverance. Embrace your new adventures with confidence. You have spent your early years building character that will hold you Hicksville strong every step of the way, no matter where you roam.”
After every graduate was honored in the presentation, Principal Williams officially declared the Class of 2020 graduates. To view the virtual commencement, go to https:// hicksville-hs.stageclip.com/.
Later in the day, every graduate had an opportunity to drive onto campus, step out of their cars and safely receive their diploma holders and personal congratulations from Carroll, Board of Education President Phil Heckler, Hoene, Litzman, Williams and others.
As a special reflection of their time in
the district, replica models of each elementary school, Hicksville Middle School and Hicksville High School – created by National Honor Society members, student volunteers, alumni and faculty under the direction of teacher and advisor Catherine Temps – were on display as the grads drove through the high school grounds.
Photos courtesy of the Hicksville School District
Superintendent of Schools Marianne Litzman and Principal Ray Williams congratulated and took photos with every Class of 2020 graduate.
Although there was no ceremonial cap toss for the Class of 2020, these Hicksville grads do their best to replicate the popular tradition.
Superintendent of Schools Marianne Litzman applauded every Hicksville graduate.
Board trustee Carla Hoene and this Hicksville graduate are all smiles.
Hicksville Board of Education President Phil Heckler and Superintendent of Schools Marianne Litzman applaud salutatorian Alaha Nasari.
A graduating senior celebrates with his diploma.
As a special reflection of their time in the district, replica models of each elementary school, Hicksville Middle School and Hicksville High Scho ol were on display (East School seen here) as the graduates drove through the high school grounds during the senior class graduation parade.
Principal Ray Williams happily receives a generous portrait given by graduate Aqsa Ansari.
Hicksville High School graduate Jack Immanuel is all smiles and proud to be a Hicksville graduate during the senior class graduation parade.
Class of 2020 members were greeted with cheers by faculty members of every school during the senior graduation parade.
The Hicksville Fire Department created a ceremonial archway to salute the Class of 2020 as they drove through campus during the senior graduation parade.
Hicksville High School Class of 2020 valedictorian Sejal Gupta waves to the cheering attendees during the senior class graduation parade.
For John Elliott, sailing is living. He’s been on the water for most of his 90-plus years. In all three theaters during World War 2, as a merchant seaman, and for the last 70 years sailing out of the Rockaway Point Yacht Club.
But recently John was so fatigued and short of breath, he could only walk a few steps. His aortic valve was failing. His daughter, a nurse, told John about a valve replacement procedure called TAVR. She took him to NYU Winthrop Hospital, part of NYU Langone Health. With some of the country’s highest quality TAVR programs on Long Island and in Manhattan, NYU Langone Health is a leader in this procedure. They replaced John’s valve through an artery in his leg. In no time at all, he was back to sailing off Breezy Point. If you suffer from aortic stenosis, you may be a candidate for TAVR. To learn more, call 1-866-WINTHROP or visit nyuwinthrop.org.
NYS’s Newest Attraction: 3.6 Mile Biking/Walking Path
Opens on Mario Cuomo Bridge over Hudson River
BY KAREN RUBIN
On only the second weekend since New York State Governor Andrew M. Cuomo cut the ribbon to open the 3.6-mile shared bicycle and pedestrian path on the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (the rebuilt Tappan Zee Bridge, named for his father, a three-term governor), it was bustling – even hard to get a parking space at Westchester Landing.
There is a perennial festive atmosphere - a sense of delight – that starts at the gorgeous, welcoming, visitor center (bathrooms, water fountain), the snack trucks (beer, ice cream, other delights), and even a bike rental stall. The path opened with safety protocols in place to limit the potential spread of COVID-19everyone is required to wear masks, there is a monitored stand where you can get one as well as hand sanitizer, and monitors along the path at these gorgeous viewing platforms, each one artfully designed.
The path provides an environmentally friendly new connection for families, runners, cyclists, walkers and commuters to travel between Westchester and Rockland counties. Even better, it sets what should be every municipality’s focus on providing opportunities for health and wellness (and happiness) –by walking or biking, but in any case, moving.
(The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Moving Forward Act (H.R
2)—a sweeping infrastructure bill that would double dedicated investment for trails, and provide for the first time Active Transportation Connectivity Grants that would help communities nationwide complete their active transportation networks. The bill focuses on important
path extends from its Westchester Landing in the Village of Tarrytown, across one of the widest points of the Hudson River, to its Rockland Landing in the Village of South Nyack. Located on the northern side of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge’s westbound
walk-bike safety innovations and the reduction of carbon emissions through investments that promote increased walking and bicycling.)
With its signature blue overlay, the 12-foot wide shared use
span, the path features six scenic overlooks, digital kiosks, interpretive signage and public art. Visitor parking, restrooms, bicycle repair stations and other amenities, along with connectivity to local bicycle and
pedestrian networks, are available at both landings.
It takes about 80 minutes to walk the length of the path and approximately 20 minutes to bike across the path, so take that into account (especially with the four-hour limit on parking).
As magnificent as the views up the Hudson River are, the art and design along the way add to the aesthetic experience. You encounter five sculptures, a 4,000-square-foot mural at the entrance in Rockland and a custom-designed bike rack referencing the Palisades and New York City skyline. Three of the sculptures incorporate remnant steel salvaged from the decommissioned Tappan Zee Bridge. Three more bicycle racks allude to the historic importance of the Hudson River as a commercial transportation artery. The viewing areas are works of art, themselves, and the people taking in the scenery almost become part of the canvas.
The Thruway Authority partnered with ArtsWestchester and the Arts Council of Rockland on the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Public Art Program. The 10 commissions were awarded to eight New York State artists. (Details about each art commission is available on the bridge website.)
The bridge itself is magnificent (Golden Gate, eat your heart out), and the views absolutely gorgeous. But cyclists and hikers will love the fact that once you get over to the
Continued on next page
GOING PLACES, NEAR &
NYS’s Newest Attraction: 3.6 Mile Biking/Walking Path Opens on Mario Cuomo Bridge over Hudson River
Rockland side, you can continue the ride or hike north on the Raymond G. Esposito Memorial Trail for just a mile (not that interesting but adds mileage), but really marvelous is to go south on the Old Erie Path, a three-mile gravel path along an old rail line that follows the ridge and opens to magnificent views of the bridge and Hudson River, and ends at an old train station at Piermont.
There are also free audio tours specially designed for walkers and cyclists available for download. The mobile tours include stories that
cover a wide range of topics from information about bridge construction to local history, from the Hudson Valley’s connection to art to the Hudson River and its surroundings. Travelers can safely access the stories hands-free on their mobile devices while walking or cycling the path.
The New York State Thruway Authority partnered with Historic Hudson River Towns (HHRT), a non-profit consortium of riverfront municipalities, and TravelStorys to develop the audio tours. In addition to the path tours, HHRT offers a new driving tour includes featuring its 16 member communities in Westchester and
Rockland, as well as on both the new Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge and the Bear Mountain Bridge.
Upcoming HHRT tours on the TravelStorys app include walking tours of Irvington, Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow and Nyack, and artist Edward Hopper’s Nyack. Download the TravelStorys app for free to listen to the self-guided path tours.
The shared use path is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The path may temporarily close due to inclement weather, maintenance operations or security concerns. Updates and path information are available at the bridge’s new website, mariomcuomo-
bridge.ny.gov, and on its new Twitter account, @GMMCB
© 2020 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com, www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/ Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
At this time of year several people I know have recently retired. Many of them worked at school districts and the end of the school year brought teacher retirements and other staff as well.
For people who seem to have everything it’s hard to choose a perfect gift. I’ve thought about giving my newly retired friends an engraved bracelet, a unique pendant, a humorous coffee mug and even a hammock for enjoying in their leisure hours.
For those who like playing games and golf but never seemed to have much extra time, I’ve thought of giving them a chess set or a putter.
My friend, Bill, retired last June and I knew that he and his wife, Amy, had plans to fly to Ireland in July. That’s all my friends and I heard Bill talk about during the occasional lunches and dinners when we met - what he was going to do in Ireland that summer.
My retirement gift to Bill was two things actually. I got him a pair of binoculars for seeing plenty of good sights on the Emerald Isle and a straw hat with a decorative leather band on it. I knew that he and Amy were flying to Shannon Airport on the western side of Ireland and spending 10 days exploring all of the famous sights - the Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, Cork City, the Dingle Peninsula, etc.
They were doing a driving tour part of the time and hiring locals to show them around. Then they were flying to Dublin and spending another eight days sightseeing up north. Bill laughed when he opened my retirement gifts and promptly put on the straw hat and said he would definitely use the binoculars.
Last June my friend, Patty, also retired and she told her friends the first thing she wanted to do after giving up the 9 to 5 routine was to head to the Caribbean. A cruise was on her bucket list so Patty and husband Frank researched the best cruises from New York to the Caribbean and chose one that piqued their interest.
Not all of my friends work for schools, however. Last December my friend, April, retired from her job as an office manager in the city because she had worked full-time for close to 40 years and she had taken way too many trips on the L.I.R.R. That’s how she put it: “I don’t want to close my eyes then open them and find myself commuting once again.”
April said that her plan post retirement was to refurbish furniture and sell antiques. She was looking into renting a store.
We had coffee one day and April said that she’s been spending most of her free time figuring out the best location and what goes into managing an antiques store. She took seminars on how to be a great antiques dealer and was really into being her own boss. I reminded April that she didn’t have to actually open a store, that she could probably do it from home. The last time April and I spoke she had found a cute little shop near her home.
I remember some of the perfect retirement gifts several people gave my boss, Emma, when she retired four years ago. Coffee mugs and bestselling books were bestowed upon Emma plus subscriptions to “Better Homes and Gardens” and “Taste of Home” because it’s well known that Emma is always either redecorating her home or baking
a batch of cupcakes.
One of the more memorable gifts Emma got was a Giant Ostrich Fern, potted of course, and that plant stands out vividly in my mind because it was about two-and-a-half feet tall and I got to hold it all through the car ride home. I didn’t want to drop it. I happen to love plants but I had never seen a potted fern quite that tall. I was used to the smaller varieties.
Emma and I had driven to the restaurant together. When we left we couldn’t wedge the plant in anywhere safely so I seat belted myself into the front passenger seat then Emma handed me her fern. I held that potted plant tightly because Emma’s a good driver but some of the turns she made in her SUV on our drive back were pretty sharp. I certainly didn’t want to disappoint Emma by having anything happen to her new gift.
Having a green thumb I knew that ferns can be fragile shall we say and I was very carefully balancing that potted plant on my lap. Accidentally breaking any fronds on Emma’s retirement gift wouldn’t be a good thing.
I didn’t want to leave any fronds behind on the floor of her immaculately clean car - or any bits of soil, either.
Some people say that ferns are tough and sturdy but this one sure didn’t look it. I held that potted plant on my lap the whole 20-minute ride from the restaurant to Emma’s house, where I had left my car, then breathed a sigh of relief when we arrived and her plant looked fine.
In recent years several people have asked me to recommend good retirement gifts for people because not only have my boss and I retired but many of them know that with four older broth-
ers and sisters, I’ve attended several different retirement parties.
My quieter siblings had luncheons and dinner parties to celebrate their retirements and my extroverted siblings had retirement parties that were almost as extravagant as a wedding. A catering hall was hired for a sit-down dinner complete with four courses. Speeches were given then everyone danced to the DJ’s great music. Photos were taken, congratulations were bestowed on the “new retiree” and everyone had a fantastic time.
Several people gave the new retiree a witty greeting card because that way they wrote their sentiments but didn’t have to get all teary eyed about the fact that they would be going off in different directions.
Right now my newly retired friends are loving their free time. They’re enjoying all of their retirement gifts and each one was perfect in its own way.
BY JEFF RUGG
Q: I know you have occasionally written about birds in the yard and garden, but I haven’t paid too much attention to the birds in my yard. Over the past few weeks of being stuck inside, I have noticed a lot more birds in the tree outside my office window. I assume they are migrating. There have been several with red feathers, and some with yellow, that I have never seen before. I have an old bird book, but I can’t seem to find any of the birds in the book. What tips can I use to identify these beautiful birds?
A: I teach an ornithology class at my local master naturalist program at the university extension office. “Master naturalist” is a designation similar to “master gardener.” You should check to see if there is a class in your area.
The first thing I tell new birders (the new, sportier term, which sounds better than the old “bird-watcher”) is that you will probably remember where you were when you saw the bird and what the bird was doing. Just like you said, you were in your office, and the birds were in the tree.
But what we don’t remember is more important, so we need to be diligent in paying attention. You must look for the dots, spots and stripes on the head, body, wings and tail of the birds. Repeat that last sentence out loud a couple of times to help it sink in. As soon as you see the bird, pay direct attention to these color differences on the bird. The smaller the bird, the more attention you have to pay.
There will be several birds on each
A GREENER VIEW
Attracting Birds
page of the bird book, and they will only differ in small ways through the dots, spots and stripes on the head, body, wings and tail. If you don’t look for the differences, all you will be able to remember is the general information of where you were and what the bird was doing -- such as flying or hopping on the ground.
Another important thing to note that comes a bit more automatically is the size of the bird and the size of the body parts. Is the bird the size of a sparrow, robin, chicken or turkey? Is the tail longer than the body? Are the wings long and slender or short and stubby?
I think you could recognize more birds than you realize, along with their general body shape and size. You can use the birds you know to help you group the birds you don’t know. Think about the birds you learned as a kid, such as the ostrich, swan, vulture, penguin, flamingo, duck, goose, dove, finch, cardinal, bluebird, heron, oriole, hawk, eagle, falcon, owl, hummingbird, woodpecker, quail, stork and seagull. I can go on and on. Each of these names has many species that differ mainly by the dots, spots and stripes on the head, body, wings and tail, and somewhat by size.
The birds in the book that are not on this list can be compared with these for size and color patterns.
Another thing that will help you identify the birds in the book is reading about the kinds of habitats they live in and the range of areas they spend the summer and winter. You would not expect to find swans in the woods, right? Some birds are very specific as to where they live, and others are more general.
Most bird books have maps that show the summer range of where the birds breed, with a different color for the areas they spend the winter and a third color for areas they are only seen during migration. Because birds don’t read the bird books, they can sometimes be seen out of their normal range. But a person new to birding should probably assume they need to keep going through the book to find the right bird if their first choice is way out of its normal range.
We are in the peak of migration in most of the country right now, so keep the binoculars handy, and keep a sharp ear out for new sounds. Most bird species make songs that can be used to identify the birds, but it often takes much more practice to learn these
songs than it does to identify birds by appearance.
Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com.
COPYRIGHT 2020 JEFF RUGG DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS SYNDICATE
BY TOM MARGENAU
My wife and I have been doing a little downsizing lately. One thing we decided we can live without is the rather large collection of books we’ve accumulated over the past 46 years. We are donating most of them to our local library. But as I looked through the old books, I reread one of them, and it struck a chord with me. It’s an autobiography by former New York Times columnist Russell Baker called “Growing Up.”
In it, Baker tells the story of what it was like to grow up in the 1920s and 1930s. For most of us, the Great Depression is the stuff of history books and hard luck stories revealed in an occasional documentary about the era. But Baker lived one of those stories and writes eloquently about his life and those times.
His book brings the era into focus for people whose vision of history has been blurred by the good life. For me, it also illustrates the reason why we have and need a Social Security system in this country.
Many people have attempted to explain to me that America would be better off without Social Security. They point out that this nation was founded on the principles of personal freedom and that our pioneer spirit encourages people to make it on their own without government interference. As one recent letter writer told me, “If people could make it on their own in the good old days before we had Social Security, they ought to be able to make it on their own now without the government’s help!”
The problem with that argument, of course, is that many people were not “making it” before Social Security came into existence. And those “good old days” were very bad for very many people.
In his book, Baker describes the period just after his father’s death. His father left a widow and three small children, including Russell, who was then about 10. Russell’s youngest sister, Audrey, was 18 months old. His newly widowed mother decided to leave their home in Virginia to move in with relatives in New Jersey. Immediately following the funeral, she had many tough decisions to make. One of them was giving up Audrey!
“The giving up of Audrey was done in a time of shock and depression for my mother,” Baker writes. “When the undertaker was paid, she was left with a few dollars of insurance money, a worthless Model T, several chairs, a table to eat from, a couple of mail-order beds, a crib, three small children, no way to earn a living, and no prospects for the future.”
A few days later, Baker’s Uncle Tom and Aunt Goldie arrived to pick up his little sister. “My mother helped them carry out the crib and boxes packed with baby clothes. When the car was loaded, my mother bundled Audrey into blan-
The Bad Old Days
kets, carried her outside, handed her to Aunt Goldie, and kissed her goodbye forever!”
That scene struck a nerve with me because my father also died when I was young. Like Baker’s father, he left a widow and small children. Also like Baker’s family, my mother was left with a little insurance, a few pieces of furniture and an old car. But unlike the Bakers, we had brighter prospects for the future because my father left behind something else: Social Security survivors insurance.
My mother, brothers, sister and me each received a monthly check from Social Security based on my father’s earnings. My siblings and I were able to receive benefits up to the age of 22 if we stayed in school. And my mother received checks until my youngest brother turned 18. (The laws have changed slightly since I was a beneficiary. Today, benefits to children are generally cut off at age 18, and a widowed mother’s checks stop when the youngest child turns 16.)
Survivors benefits are a very important part of Social Security. They have been paid since 1940. Yet even today, many young workers are not aware of this protection they are guaranteed through their Social Security tax deductions.
Most young people complain about the amount of Social Security taxes they pay. But I think if they really consider why our society provides a comprehensive Social Security program, they might be more inclined to accept Social Security taxes so that no other young widowed mother has to give up her little Audrey and “kiss her goodbye forever.”
And here are a couple of postscripts to what I just wrote. I emailed a draft copy of this column to one of the Social Security bashers -- the guy who said that if people could make it on their own before Social Security came along, they should be able to do the same today. I thought it might touch a nerve. Gosh, was I mistaken. It struck a nerve all right, but it was his anti-government/anti-Social Security nerve. He just doubled down on his arguments. Here is what he wrote -- in part. (His rant went on for more than a page!)
“It’s the namby-pamby liberals like Baker (and all other NY Times columnists) and you who have ruined this country. Russell’s father should have provided for his family, and your father should have provided for you. We don’t need the government to make up for slackers like your fathers. And don’t even get my started on widow’s benefits. These women should work and take care of themselves and not expect the government to show up each month with a widow’s dole!”
My goodness! I sure am glad I don’t live in that guy’s world. What a cold and uncaring and empathy-starved place it must be! Maybe I should have pointed
out to him that Russell Baker’s mom spent many years cleaning floors in tenement houses to help take care of her family. And my mom worked all her life to help pay the rent and put food on our table. Oh, well!
I also wanted to point out that someone reading this column might conclude that Social Security is unique to the United States. Just the opposite is true. The idea of Social Security is a worldwide phenomenon. Almost every country on
the planet has a Social Security system in place for its citizens. And almost every one of those programs provides survivors benefits to widows, widowers and minor children. It’s just too bad our program came along too late to help Russell Baker’s mother and her children.
If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has the answer. Contact him at thomas.margenau@comcast.net. COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
REAL ESTATE WATCH
What will Covid-19 do to the national debt, real estate
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
With all the borrowing through the C.A.R.E.S. Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act) and the trillions of dollars being given out in assisting U.S. companies and citizens through the tumultuous times over the last three months; for now as bad as it has been, it could have been even a worst-case scenario of total chaos and even greater economic upheaval and disruption without it.
The government has borrowed more in 2020 that it has compared to the 2008 market implosion of the economy. It appears that real estate with historically low-interest rates and a huge pent-up demand and also from those leaving NYC has come back quite well and contracts and pending sales have increased markedly during May and June.
As dangerous and lethal the virus has been, consumers are out there are forging ahead and purchasing homes. Prices are predicted to continue to increase due to historically low inventory. It all seems so much better, but my concern is how is the immense increase of trillions of dollars to our National Debt going to be repaid? Currently, all our debt is greater than the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of our U.S. economy and will most likely get worse over the next few years before it gets better. We are at approximately 106110% of GDP, which some experts say is too high and some feel it isn’t.
Both parties have ideas as to reducing the debt by cutting spending, which will not happen currently due to such diversity between the Democratic House and Republican Senate. It’s a no brainer that by putting people back to work and increasing the Gross Domestic Product; while others think increasing taxes on the wealthy is
another solution, but it also has to be balanced with eliminating waste in the budget.
The U.S. is like a kid with a credit card, whereby we keep spending but never realize that we have to eventually pay back the money. Most important is spending on the creation of jobs for building and repairing our bridges, roads, tunnels, high-speed rail, and public buildings. This will successfully occur through increasing educational programs.
Today further reductions in our bloated military programs which was the opposite during WWII when necessary increases in military spending worked as an economy booster. However our information and technology economy today is completely different and besides construction-based jobs, we need a greater number of technologically educated workers for those jobs who will earn a livable and sustainable wage to potentially purchase a home.
Real Estate, for now, appears in excellent shape from the increased demand from those that can buy due to the historically low-interest rates. Most important, construction must be ramped up as quickly as possible to satisfy a demand that has been consistently outpacing available supply over the last 8 years. One of the huge issues that could affect real estate in the future is that our country has always been in a deficit spending mode since it’s in inception. One of the few times we had created a surplus was in the 1990s when there were tax increases, (Pres.George Bush and Pres.Bill Clinton) reduced defense spending as had been done since 1987 and a huge economic boom
that created a windfall of tax revenue that completely reduced our debt.
The timing for Bill Clinton as President couldn’t have been more perfect for him and then while in his 2nd successful term in 1998 we had 4 years of surpluses. But some give credit to Newt Gingrich, speaker of the House and his GOP controlled House and Senate as they were able to create a budget that reduced spending as well as increased taxes on higher incomes and also assisted in cutting the deficit in 4 years (not 7 that was proposed) by also reducing spending on certain social programs.
However, over the years Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid have added the greatest part to the National Debt. However as long as the “American Dream” of homeownership is alive and well and the demand is there for purchasing homes, condos, and coops the economy should improve.
But controlling the Corona Virus will be a key factor in our success and will only be accomplished by people understanding to stop being selfish and self-centered and to follow the CDC guidelines in wearing masks and social distancing and eventually the creation of successful vaccines. We need to balance the ratio and percentage of debt/GDP ratio in somewhat of a controlled fashion by having a more robust economy through the creation of more hi-tech jobs. Educating those to be employed for those new jobs as well as those positions in rebuilding our infrastructure should enable the U.S. to “weather the storm.”
If the economy (GDP) increases fast enough and stays ahead of our deficit
and debt and we can somehow through non-partisan cooperation in the House and Senate by continually working towards a balanced budget and not wasting money on unnecessary conflicts and wars around the globe as well as our healthcare system, things can and will improve and we will succeed going forward.
Real Estate will surely continue to be the benefactor as the economy improves as more and more laid-off workers are rehired, more businesses are created and Washington steps in to continue to do their job to steer and navigate our country back to where it was before Covid-19.
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget had put out an eye-opening article on April 13, 2020 while our economy was shutdown. https://www.crfb.org/blogs/ budget-projections-debt-willexceed-size-economy-year?gclid =Cj0KCQjw9IX4BRCcARIsAOD 2OB0fghIrK_Pp8MxtN_0NcNU_ B4IbA2mLDsCTLQHF3mvsG_ zkGbr6cXsaAieOEALw_wcB
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S). Just email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your ideas and suggestions on future columns with your name, email, and cell number and he will call or email you back. For a consultation, he can be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com to answer any of your questions or concerns
Questions: Best Robot Vacuum, Ant Killer
BY MARY HUNT
It’s time, once again, to reach into my virtual mailbag to read what a handful of my Dear Readers have written.
Dear Mary: I need a new robot vacuum. Which one do you recommend? -- Hilda
Dear Hilda: My pick for Best Inexpensive robot vacuum goes to the Eufy Anker BoostIQ RoboVac 11S. It is super thin, which means it is not so prone to getting stuck under furniture. It is quiet, has great suction power and works beautifully on wood, other hard floors
and medium-pile carpet. Hope that helps!
Dear Mary: In response to “11 Quick and Easy Ways to Get Rid of Pesky Ants,” I find the best way to kill ants is with an artificial sweetener such as Sweet ‘n Low. I suppose you can’t print that, but it is most effective. Just sprinkle a little on an anthill, and soon, all little creatures are gone. -- Mary D.
Dear Mary D: I can print this, and look, I just did! And if that works as you say, it’s a great tip that I’ll bet other readers will enjoy knowing. Just keep in
mind that Sweet n’ Low is not particularly inexpensive.
Would you like more information? Go to EverydayCheapskate.com for links and resources for recommended products and services in this column. Mary invites questions, comments and tips at EverydayCheapskate.com, Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a lifestyle blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.”
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Coronavirus testing is available by appointment in our Floral Park facility Mon., Wed. Thurs. at Floral Park MD across from Lady of Victory Church in the village square. Please call (516)488-1414
NOVENAS/PRAYERS
HOLY SAINT JUDE Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful and intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Please help me in my present and urgent petition. (Here describe the nature of your personal need) In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude, pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. This Novena should be said for nine consecutive days. After reciting the Novena, pray 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Mary’s and 3 Glory Be. Publication must also be promised. M.H.
NOVENA TO ST. CLAIRE: Ask St. Claire for 3 favors; 1 business and 2 impossible, say 9 Hail Mary’s for 9 days with lighted candles. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on the 9th day. “May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified today and everyday”. Request will be granted no matter how impossible it seems. Publication must be promised. M.H.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
NOVENA TO ST. JUDE
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved, and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us. Say prayer 9 times a day. By the eighth day, your prayer will be answered as mine was. Publication must be promised. Thank You St. Jude. M.H.
PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine of Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin assist me in this necessity. Oh Star of the Sea help me and show herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth I beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succor me this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to Thee (three times). Oh Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. This prayer must be said for three days and after three days your request will be granted. The prayer must be published. Grateful thanks.
M.H.
MARKETPLACE
A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP 516-746-8900
Antiques-Furniture-Jewelry-Silver-Mirrors-LampsArtwork
Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Our Website tgchs.org
Our Online Store stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange Items to Consign? Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org
All proceeds benefit
The Garden City Historical Society
Like us on Facebook & Instagram
MARKETPLACE
INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now!
Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions! WANTED TO BUY
Freon Wanted: We pay CA$H for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call 312-361-0601 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com
LOOKING TO BUY!
Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104
TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com
AUTOMOTIVE
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS
$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h. DMV 10#1303199 Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516-297-2277
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
REAL ESTATE FOR RENT
APARTMENT FOR RENT
GARDEN CITY BORDER
Apartment. NO BROKER FEE. Huge, bright 1BR, 1 bath apt. $1635 +electric. Gated parking. Laundry rm, air cond, Hard wood floors. Near LIRR. gcbapts.com voice or text: 524-6965
WILLISTON PARK
Beautiful renovated 2 BR, Heat included. Near all. Asking $2200 Rummel Real Estate Call Mary Ann for appt. 516-606-3790
OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE FOR RENT
OFFICE SPACE
GARDEN CITY
PRIME 7th STREET LOCATION
2 second floor windowed offices available. 285 sq ft 2 room suite overlooking 7th St., asking $1225 and 150 sq ft 1 room office, asking $725. Rent includes everything. Call Owner 516-510-9452.
VACATION RENTAL
Beautiful Hampton Bays Waterfront Property. Available immediately. Entire house or just 3BR apt. for rent for monthly/ yearly rental. Own private boat dock. Please call: 347-386-2051
NORTH FORK WATERFRONT VACATION HOME
AVAIL FOR AUGUST $30k/mo SPECTACULAR OPEN BAY VIEWS AND DOCK 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath home in Gardiner Bay Estates Community with private beach Call 917-587-3799
OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
Best selection of full /partial week rentals. Call for FREE color Brochure. Holiday Real Estate, Inc. 1-800-638-2102 Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com. $50 discount new rentals. Code: “WelcomeBack” (Expires 2020-09-01)
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
SARATOGA RACETRACK RENTAL
Fully furnished, 2 bedroom, 2 bath Townhouse
Located one mile from track. Central AC, Washer/Dryer, Furnished Patio, Parking. Pristine condition
$11,500 for track meet 7/15 through 9/7/2020
Weekly rental available at $2K/week
Pictures available upon request. Call: 516-413-4405
CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900
SERVICES
EXTERMINATING SERVICES
Esquire Exterminating Svcs.
*Mosquito Control Programs
*Wood Destroying Insect Treatments
*Rodent Control
*General Pest Control
Residential, Commercial, Industrial
Free Estimates No Obligation Family Owned/Operated Call: 516-499-0676 or 646-533-6500.
JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING
We can frame anything!
Quality Care & Workmanship
Thousands of frames to choose from!!
Over 30 years in business!
92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495
ATTORNEY
STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.
Elder Law, Wills & Trusts
Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation
901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530
516-222-1122
www.dangelolawassociates.com
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
AQUATEC
LAWN SPRINKLERS
SPRING TURN ONS
Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service/Repairs
Joe Barbato 516-775-1199
CLEANFELLAS
PRESSURE WASHING
Residential & Commercial Servicing: Nassau, Suffolk & Queens Homes, Concrete, Decks, Fences, Patio Furniture
Replace Paver Sand & Reseal Gutter Cleaning
Call/Text for free estimate: 516-316-1190
cleanfellas@hotmail.com cleanfellasinc.com licensed/insured.
MADE IN THE SHADE
CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS
Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies
Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890
SERVICES
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
PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY!
Slate & Tile Specialists
All types of Roofing Local References
Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869
STAY IN YOUR HOME LON-
GER with an American Standard Walk In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-844-286-6771or visit www.walkintubquote.com / newyork
HEALTH SERVICES
FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC
Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC
Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion
Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement
PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams
Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.drannmariedangelo.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530
SERVICES
PAINTING
& PAPERHANGING
MICHELANGELO
PAINTING & WALLPAPER
Interior, Exterior, Plaster / Spackle, Light Carpentry, Decorative Moldings & Power Washing. Call: 516-328-7499
INSTRUCTION
BASEBALL LESSONS
Former GC Varsity player
All League selection and current D1 College Baseball Player Can teach fundamentals of hitting, fielding and pitching. Flexible schedule
$30/hour
Call or Text: 516-761-8184
SERVICES
A & J MOVING &
STORAGE:
Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving .com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405
DISH TV
$59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-609-9405
4 Steps to Follow If Confronted With An Unexpected Early Retirement
Early retirement is a concept that, at one point in your working life, may have seemed like a dream. Yet many Americans who have retired early have done so not by choice, but because of circumstances out of their control.
For some people, it may be an injury or an accident that has short-circuited their ability to keep working. For others, perhaps the economic conditions have required their employer to reduce its workforce or close entirely.
If any of these describe your situation, you may be confronted with the urgent need to get your retirement finances in order. Here are four steps you should consider as you prepare for the onset of retirement:
#1 – Assess all of your available assets
A starting point is to take inventory of all available assets. This will help you determine whether you really have enough money on hand to meet your income needs – not just for the immediate future, but throughout your retirement. If you have accounts with different financial institutions or retirement plans with previous employers, you may want to consolidate them with a single provider.
#2 – Determine if you still need or want to work
As you review your assets, consider whether starting to tap into your retirement savings today will put an undue strain on your long-term financial security. If that’s the case, you may need to continue to generate income through work. That could come through employment full-time, part-time or potentially by
becoming a consultant. An added consideration is whether you are really ready to retire. If not, it is time to explore your options for ongoing work, perhaps with the help of a professional career consultant.
#3 – Check into your health care options
If you are 65 or older, you have the option to enroll in Medicare. If not, you’ll need to consider other options. See if your employer will consider extending health care coverage for a period of time, or you have an option to pay to maintain that coverage. Alternatively, if you are married, you may be able to be added to your spouse’s coverage. If those choices aren’t available, you can look into an individual health care policy, utilizing the Affordable Care Act Marketplace.
#4 – Position your investments properly
As you enter retirement, make sure your savings are appropriately invested. You may need to reduce your risk profile. If you are invested too aggressively, a sudden downturn in the markets could result in a major setback for your nest egg that may be difficult to overcome. Stocks should continue to be part of your asset mix. Keep in mind that money needed as income for the next two-to-three years should be held in relatively safe investments like cash or short-term bonds. The transition to retirement is one of the most important financial periods of your life. Be sure to call on the help of your financial advisor to guide you through this time.
516.345.2600 401 Franklin
Grimaldi’sisproudto beservingthecommunity forover15years.We,asafamily, continuearehereforyounowandwill tobeheretoserveyouinthefuture.Wewishyouall healthandhappinessduring thisverytryingtime! We
Are Open For Inside Dining at 50% Capacity
For the safety of our staff and customers, you must wear a mask to and from the tables.
Thank you for your cooperation
Reservations are not being taken at this time... First come first served
