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Delivery driver saves family in Syosset house fire

STORY AND PHOTOS BY AMANDA JOHNSON

On Saturday afternoon, September 10th, Kevin Rivera, an Amazon delivery driver, had just delivered his last package and was getting back into his van when he noticed fire coming from a house across the street.

Kevin ran to the house and entered the open front door to locate the people that lived there and assist them out. He said the first person he found was a woman with a baby and she wanted to go out the front of the house. Because of a language barrier she did not understand that there was too much fire and everyone had to go out the back of the house so Kevin grabbed her arm and pulled her to the back door. Because he was yelling about the fire, the rest of the family, a dad, a toddler, and two elderly parents plus two dogs exited the home with him by the rear door and Kevin directed them to the neighbors yard to safety.

Meanwhile the Syosset Fire Department dispatcher received multiple calls from neighbors of fire coming out the windows at 43 Bluebird Dr. and dispatched a working house fire. Multiple

Amazon delivery driver Kevin Rivera ran into the burning home to help rescue the occupants.

fire engines, ladder trucks along with personnel and chiefs responded within minutes to get water on the fire. Having been told everyone was safely out of the home the fire was attacked from the exterior.

The SFD were assisted by other fire

DogFest coming to town park on Sept. 24 Car show returns to TOBAY Beach on October 2

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Town will host DogFest Long Island on Saturday, September 24, to benefit Canine Companions. The event, being held at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa, runs from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

a fun event for a great cause,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.

“September is National Service Dog Month, and what better way to celebrate than to bring your canine friends to

“We are pleased to once again join with Canine Companions to offer DogFest visitors a fun day of

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Long Island’s premier car show experience will take place on Sunday, October 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at TOBAY Beach (rain date on October 9). The Supervisor’s TOBAY Beach Classic will be co-sponsored by Car Show Long Island and will feature hundreds of automobiles, trucks, military vehicles, and emergency service vehicles. A live concert performed by The Mystic will take place during the

day, followed by trophy presentations. The event is free for spectators. Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “Whether you’re a proud classic car owner or you want to see the best cars in the region, Car Show Long Island is the place to be! This free family-fun event is a perfect way to spend the day, all with the beautiful

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The home was fully engulfed in flames.

Residents invited to “Walk for Autism” on Sept. 24

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to participate in the Town of Oyster Bay’s 14th Annual “Walk for Autism” at Burns Park in Massapequa on Saturday, September 24. In the event of inclement weather, the walk will take place on October 1st. The walk will benefit Advantage Care Health Center’s Fay J. Lindner Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, one of the leading treatment and outpatient assessment programs for people with autism spectrum disorders.

“Autism can present itself in a wide variety of ways, typically characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as unique strengths and differences,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated. “It is estimated that the condition affects 1 in every 54 children in the United States, and early diagnosis leads to an increased ability to help through intervention services.”

Registration for the event begins at 10 a.m., with the walk commencing at 11 a.m. The registration fee is $10 for individuals and $25 for families. All registrants will receive entrance to the postwalk tailgate party with refreshments and free T-shirts while supplies last.

Councilwoman Michele Johnson added, “We are pleased to once again host this event to benefit the Fay J. Linder Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, which offers the highest quality, state-of-the-art clinical services to people with autism spectrum disorders. From hosting social skill development groups to assisting with medicine management and educating community organizations, Advantage Care Health Center does truly outstanding work in our Town.”

For more information, contact the Town of Oyster Bay Parks Department, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-7945 or visit www.advantagecaredtc.org/ TOBwalk to register or donate online.

Home burglarized in Woodbury

Nassau County Police have reported the details of a home burglary which took place in Woodbury.

According to police, a resident was away from his home from Saturday, September 10, to Sunday, September 11, and when he returned to his residence on Chauncey Place, he found the rear sliding glass door was wide open and

the house had been ransacked by an unknown person(s). No injuries were reported. The proceeds are unknown at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

Detectives request anyone with information regarding this crime to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.

Arrest in Hicksville business scam

Nassau County Police arrested a Queens man on Wednesday, September 7, after he allegedly scammed a Hicksville business by pretending to be a town code enforcement officer.

According to county detectives, John Garland entered G and J Dry Cleaners, 212 W. Old Country Road and portrayed himself as a code enforcement inspector for the Town of Oyster Bay. According to police, he was wearing an orange vest and displayed identification that included

his photo and a Town of Hempstead seal. Police say Garland notified the business that its sign was in violation of the town’s ordinances and threatened fines in excess of $5,000 dollars if they were not addressed within 72 hours. According to police, he also issued fraudulent “Notice of Violation” paperwork that contained the seals for Nassau County, Town of Hempstead and Town of Oyster Bay. The business was also provided with a phone number for a business called FastSigns, located at 392 N. Wantagh Avenue, to correct the violation. The victim called the business and was given a $2,200 dollar estimate to rectify the violation.

Police say that Garland, 54, visited 114 businesses and claimed their business signs were in violation.

Garland is charged with Scheme to Defraud 1st Degree, Attempted Grand Larceny 2nd Degree, two (2) counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree and Criminal Impersonation 2nd Degree.

Detectives request anyone who feels they may have been the victim of a similar incident to contact Nassau County Crime

John Garland

Library patrons support Harry Chapin Food Drive

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker thanked the visitors of the Syosset and Plainview-Old Bethpage Libraries for supporting a food drive his office held in honor of the legacy of legendary Long Island musician, activist and philanthropist Harry Chapin. Donors contributed nearly 150 pounds of food to Long Island Cares — the food bank that Harry Chapin founded in 1980.

The food drive is part of Legislator Drucker’s continuing efforts to generate awareness and support for the ongoing fight to end hunger and food insecurity on Long Island. In April, Legislator Drucker filed legislation to make July 16 Harry Chapin Day in

for

Nassau County; months later, the County Executive applied this concept toward proclaiming the first Friday in September each year as “Harry Chapin National Food Bank Day.”

“When Harry Chapin launched Long Island’s very first food bank more than four decades ago, he elevated our regional response to the humanitarian crisis of hunger — one that touches countless families in our region,” Legislator Drucker said. “As we strive toward eradicating food insecurity in Nassau County, I hope that we will continue to call upon Harry’s example as both a guiding light and an inspiration for all that we do to accomplish our shared mission.”

and information.

Legislator Drucker pictured with Josh Chapin outside Long Island Cares’ Hauppauge headquarters on Friday, July 15.

Photo courtesy of Office of Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

Bethpage HS Hall of Fame induction, dinner

The Bethpage Educational Foundation is thrilled to announce the return of its Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner this fall. The following eight inductees will be recognized at the special event on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Bethpage High School gymnasium:

• Anne Marie Marrone Caliendo

– Bethpage High School, Class of 1989

• Terrence Clark –Superintendent of Schools/Social Studies Teacher, Retired

• Philip Coniglio – Bethpage High School, Class of 1992

• Sal Greco – Bethpage High School, Class of 1956

• Anna Israelton – Board of Education Trustee

• Colonel, Michael McCaffery –Bethpage High School, Class of 1984

• Cary Rosoff – Bethpage High School, Class of 1973

• Elizabeth Skrypek – Bethpage

High School, Class of 1972

All community members are invited to attend the event to help celebrate these exceptional inductees. The cost to attend the dinner is $75. All proceeds will benefit the Bethpage Educational Foundation which supports the Bethpage schools with scholarships, programs and enhancements. To attend, please visit www.bethpagecommunity. com for the invitation. Print it out and mail your check with the RSVP to the address listed. The deadline to RSVP is Oct. 7.

Bethpage High School has many distinguished alumni. Past honorees have included journalists, novelists, generals, artists, first responders, former staff members and civic leaders. To view all the past inductees, please visit www.bethpage.ws/HOF. If you would like more information about the upcoming ceremony, please call 516-644-4001.

In the Gallery at Syosset Public Library

Kyle Horne is a writer and illustrator living in Long Island, New York. As a freelance artist, his illustrations have been featured in books such as “ Fancy Pants Poodle ” and series such as “ Amazing Annabelle ” and “ Daring David. ” His interest in pop culture stems from his love of movies and TV. This influences every piece of art that he creates.

He attended SUNY College at Old Westbury and obtained a bachelor’s degree in visual communications. He has illustrated many children’s books on anti-bullying topics. Art has always been a big part of his life ever since he was very young. Kyle is driven by art-making and intends to make a positive difference in the world with his work.

His artwork will be displayed in the Syosset Library Art Gallery through October 5.

Illustration by Kyle Horne on display at the Syosset Public Library.

GRIMALDI’S FAMILY MEALS ARE PERFECT FOR

Available September 6 through November 13 for lunch and dinner. Take-out only.

1) One 18” Pizza with Choice of Spinach and Artichoke Dip OR Grimaldi’s Mixed Salad and Complimentary 2-Liter Bottle of Soda ($2.50 Charge to Substitute Different Salad)

$36 plus tax

2 ) One 18” Pizza, One Order of Penne alla Vodka, Choice of Spinach and Artichoke Dip OR Grimaldi’s Mixed Salad and Complimentary 2-Liter Bottle of Soda ($2.50 Charge to Substitute Different Salad)

$48 plus tax

3) Two 18” Pizzas with Choice of Spinach and Artichoke Dip OR Grimaldi’s Mixed Salad and Complimentary 2-Liter Bottle of Soda ($2.50 Charge to Substitute Different Salad)

$55 plus tax

Additional items may be purchased at regular menu price. Toppings available for aditional cost. May not be combined with any other coupon, discount, offer, or Groupon. Prices do not include tax or gratuity. Available for take-out only. No substitutions.

Let Grimaldi’s Host Your Next Event! Birthdays, Rehearsal Dinners, Communions, Sports Teams, Anniversaries, Funeral Luncheons, Confirmations, Showers

DINE-IN, TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY

SUN–THU: 11:30AM–9PM • FRI–SAT: 11:30AM–10PM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH & DINNER

Delivery through:

Town plans Foodie Week on October 16–23

Town officials announce the return of Foodie Week at Butera’s of Woodbury, including Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca, Councilwoman Laura Maier, Supervisor Joseph Saladino, and Butera’s of Woodbury owners Laurie and Martin Butera.

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that Foodie Week — a unique opportunity for dining establishments to showcase their world-class culinary hotspots — will take place from October 16 to October 23. This week-long event will highlight the finest culinary creations local chefs, bakers, and artisans have to offer. The announcement was made at Butera’s Restaurant of Woodbury, who will participate in Foodie Week.

“This unique opportunity offers local dining establishments a chance to showcase their world-class culinary hotspots, and highlights the finest culinary creations local chefs, bakers and artisans have to offer. It also provides a fun outing for foodies and families to enjoy the best of the best at local eateries,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Restaurants are vital to our downtowns and crucial to our local economy. Let’s do our part by supporting them at a time when they need it the most.”

Consistent with well-known New York City standards for similar restaurant promotions, a Long Island Food Critic panel will curate all participating restaurants and will evaluate them based on the same set of criteria to help ensure that restaurants are of a similar caliber. While there is no charge for dining establishments located in the Town of Oyster Bay to participate, restaurateurs must apply online at www. FoodieWeek.com. A full list of participating venues and events will also be listed on the website.

Supervisor Saladino also announced that the Town of Oyster Bay will continue its efforts in helping the restaurant industry get back on its feet by expanding outdoor dining through 2023. This expanded

outdoor dining initiative will greatly assist the food service industry at a time in which they need it the most. A recent study indicated that 51 percent of adults have said they are not dining out at restaurants as often as they would like, an increase of six percentage points from before the pandemic.

“We have worked tirelessly since this pandemic began to help location businesses come back safely and efficiently,” Supervisor Saladino said. “We cut the red tape, permitted for new outdoor options for restaurant patrons and helped restaurant owners reopen safely and successfully. We are pleased to continue with that effort, and will invite restaurants to extend their outdoor dining services through 2021. This way, restaurant owners will be able to use all of the investments they made this year on outside tents, heaters and covers into and throughout next year.”

Councilwoman Maier added, “We hope our residents will join us in supporting our local restaurants this October 16th through 23rd for Foodie Week. Diners will have a chance to sample the best of the best, without the pressure of purchasing a full three course option or other type of old-fashioned Restaurant Week-style promotion. Foodie Week changes that paradigm by celebrating exceptional handcrafted dishes – from farm to table, dock to dish, and grape to glass offerings. Our local culinarians are excited and ready for the fun that Foodie Week will provide, and we encourage the public to get out and support our local restaurants – the heart and soul of our communities.”

Visit www.FoodieWeek.com for more information.

GRAND OPENING

Celebrate the Children annual benefit planned

After two years off from hosting one of the most popular fundraisers for the Boys & Girls Club, Lori Bahnik and Michèle Bahnik Mercier, committee co-chairs, along with their dedicated committee, are thrilled to be bringing the community together on Saturday, October 22, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., for the Annual Benefit and Cocktail Party. This event will be a celebration of the resilience, optimism, and generosity of spirit that underlies the entire community, bringing loyal supporters, parents, alumni, friends, and staff together to appreciate each other and to support the vital work of the Club. Based on the success of the virtual auction the last two years, the Club will also continue with the tradition and conduct the online auction starting Sunday, October 16, and ending Sunday, October 23, 2022. The online auction will coincide with the in-person Cocktail Party held at the Boys & Girls Clubhouse, on Saturday, October 22.

“As we emerged from the challenging days of the pandemic, the Club was and continues to be laser-focused on helping children and teens get back on track to realizing their full potential by providing safe, stable environments, and positive, enriching physical, social, and emotional experiences,” said the Club’s executive director, Jean Marie Weiner. This fundraiser provides the much-needed funds for the continuation, enhancement and growth of the Club’s programs and services.

“We are looking forward to a wonderful cocktail party with all of our friends and supporters after two years of not having the event. The Boys & Girls Club is incredibly grateful for the commitments made and honored by many of their longtime sponsors of this event, and we hope this year’s online auction will be equally or more successful than last year’s,” said Michèle

Bahnik Mercier, committee co-chair. We extremely appreciate the support of the following vendors: Andrew Pascoe Flowers LTD, Thomas Egan Window Cleaning, T.S. Elektrik LLC, Wild Honey Dining and Wine, and Wonderland Tree Care + Landscaping.

You may participate in this event from anywhere in the world, on any device. There is an awesome lineup of dazzling and fun items. Thanks to generous and loyal donors, there’s something for everyone at the auction: scores of gift certificates, weekend getaways, sports activities, a wide variety of merchandise, etc. There is no charge to bid online, but registration is required to place bids, or to support the Club. Bidding starts at 9 a.m. (EST) on Sunday, October 16th, and ends at 9 p.m. (EST) on Sunday, October 23. Participants may view the gifts at their leisure, place their bids, and check back and bid as often as they wish throughout the week.

The Club is hopeful the 2022 events will raise the critical funds necessary to fuel the Club’s mission. Lori Bahnik, committee co-chair, shared, “your support is more important than ever before and will insure that children and teens will learn, thrive, and develop resiliency and other skills that will carry them throughout their lives. The funds raised at this event will enhance our efforts to sustain our goals to offer high-quality programming to children, teens and their families.” Each of these events is vital to making the Boys & Girls Club of Oyster Bay-East Norwich’s life-enhancing programs available to all youth. For more information or questions regarding tickets, sponsorship opportunities or auction donations, please contact: Denise Ribeiro, Development@bgcoben. com, or 516-922-9285, ext. 14.

From left to right: Event Co-Chairs Lori Bahnik and Michèle Bahnik Mercier.

2022 WALK

3rd Annual 5k walk

3RD ANNUAL 5K WALK

September 17th, 2022

Start: Laurelton Entrance of LB boardwalk to support Breast and Ovarian Cancer Research! 2022 WALK

September 17th, 2022

Long Beach, NY @ 10 AM

Start: Laurelton Entrance of LB boardwalk to support Breast and Ovarian Cancer Research! 2022 WALK

Long Beach, NY @ 10 AM

Start: Laurelton Entrance of LB boardwalk to support Breast and Ovarian Cancer Research!

ForAllWhoFight.org / @ForAllWhoFight

Proceeds to benefit Memorial Sloan Kettering Young Women with Breast Cancer Program and NYU Langone Ovarian Cancer Research.

Hicksville Water District begins fall flushing

The Hicksville Water District (HWD) has begun flushing water mains throughout its service area as a part of its regular Distribution System Maintenance Program. Flushing will continue through September 23 between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. to minimize the impact on the community. The flushing will be focused in the southwest quadrant of the District service area, which is east of Newbridge Road and south of Stewart Avenue. Residents should remember that their water is absolutely safe to drink during this period.

“We flush our water mains every year as a means of ensuring that our water distribution systems remain clear of any unwanted materials that may have settled there in the past year,” said HWD Chairman Nicholas Brigandi. “While these deposits are harmless, it is still best practice to have them removed so there is no interference with our ability to provide top-quality water to our community. Residents may experience variations in pressure and temporary discoloration of water while flushing occurs, but the water will remain safe to

drink throughout the process.”

The HWD flushes its water mains each year to protect the integrity of the water supply and to continuously provide residents with the high-quality water they have come to expect. Flushing allows the district to guard against possible accumulation of dissolved chemicals in water mains that has occurred since last year. The flushing program also provides an opportunity for the District to check for leaks, test water pressure, determine the water’s pH level and color and make exact calculations on rates of water flow, adding to its importance in the District’s water distribution practices.

Slight water pressure variations or discolored water conditions may occur, and water uses such as laundering of clothes may be affected due to coloration of water. If the water in your homes does become discolored, it can be solved quickly by running your cold-water faucets until the water clears up.

For more information and assistance, please contact the Hicksville Water District at 516-931-6469 or info@ hicksvillewater.org.

Free rabies clinic for dogs, cats, ferrets

The Town of Oyster Bay, in partnership with the Nassau County Department of Health, will offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets. Open to all residents, the vaccination clinic will be held on Saturday, September 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Town Animal Shelter located at 150 Miller Place in Syosset. No reservations are necessary.

“We consider our pets to be members of our family and want to do everything possible to protect them from harm and poor health,” said Town Councilman Lou Imbroto. “Pet owners can take advantage of this free vaccination clinic, which protects our pets and our families.”

New York State law requires that all dogs, cats and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. If an unvaccinated pet or one that’s overdue for its vaccination comes into contact with a rabid or suspected rabid animal, the pet must either be euthanized or strictly quarantined for six months. However, if a vaccinated animal comes into contact with

a wild animal, it needs only a booster vaccination which must be administered within five days of exposure. To protect your family and your pet, it is essential that your animals have up-to-date rabies inoculations.

It is recommended for dogs, cats and ferrets older than four months to receive their first two shots one year apart and additional booster shots every three years thereafter. Dogs must be on leash at all times and cats and ferrets must be in enclosed carriers.

The clinic also offers to microchip pets for $25. Microchips carry a unique identification number for a pet so if they ever get lost they can be taken to a vet clinic or animal shelter where they will be scanned for the unique microchip ID number. No reservations are necessary for the clinic.

For more information, contact the Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter at (516) 677-5784 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

DISCOVER THE FINEST IN SENIOR LIVING

The Bristal Assisted Living has been serving seniors and their families in the tri-state area since 2000, offering independent and assisted living, as well as state-of-the-art memory care programs. We are committed to helping residents remain independent, while providing peace of mind that expert care is available, if needed. Designed with seniors in mind, each of our communities feature exquisitely appointed apartments and beautiful common areas that are perfect for entertaining. On-site services and amenities include daily housekeeping, gourmet meals, a cinema, salon, plus so much more. Discover a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and a luxurious lifestyle that you will only find at The Bristal.

Delivery driver saves family in Syosset house fire

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Car show returns to TOBAY Beach on October 2

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Later, Kevin said he was so happy he was able to help this family. “I just rushed in because I didn’t want anybody to die."

departments from East Norwich, Hicksville, Plainview, Jericho, Locust Valley, Cold Spring Harbor and Oyster Bay. One firefighter was transported to the hospital with minor injuries and released. There were no other injuries and the cause of the fire is under investigation and has not been determined yet.

Fire Department at work.

After the fire, the home appeared to be a total loss.

backdrop of TOBAY Beach. Spectators can check out cool cars, vendors, exhibits and enjoy live music while surrounded by Long Island’s best classic, muscle, antique and exotic cars.”

Car Show Long Island’s 2022 TOBAY Beach Fall Classic features some of the hottest and most classic cars in the tristate region. While enjoying live music performed by The Mystic and great eats from the Food Truck Corral, thousands of spectators are expected throughout the day to get up close and personal with Long Island’s best classic, muscle, antique and exotic cars. Trophies will be awarded in each class, and children will have a say when deeming which

rides are their favorites in the SUNation Kids’ Choice Award. Car Show Long Island’s 2022 TOBAY Beach Fall Classic is made possible through the following presenting sponsors: Bethpage Federal Credit Union, MSG Networks and Signarama of Huntington.

Classic Car enthusiasts and spectators can also grab a bite to eat from the food truck corral, and can also check out numerous vendors and displays. Car owners can pre-register their vehicles by at www.carshowli.com for $15 per car or register the day-of for $25 per car. The event is free to spectators. For more information or to become a sponsor or vendor at the event, call (516) 797-4121 or e-mail carshowli@oysterbay-ny.gov.

DogFest coming to town park on Sept. 24

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games, inspiring speakers, activities for kids, service dog demonstrations and more.”

There is no fee to participate, however residents are invited to fundraise and help spread the word about the event by visiting www.canine.org/dogfestlongisland-nyc. All monies raised benefit Canine Companions, a nonprofit who works to place expertly-trained service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities, free of charge. Their mission is to help clients and their service dogs live with greater independence, and more than 400 people are currently waiting for their new canine partners.

“We invite all residents to participate in this fun event while making a positive difference in the lives of others,” said Town Councilman TomHand. “Thanks to events like DogFest, Canine Companions is able to continue the great work they do to assist the disabled community people with disabilities”

DogFest Long Island-NYC takes place Saturday, September 24, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Marjorie Post Park, located on Unqua Road in Massapequa. Dogs are welcome to attend – they must be social and friendly with other dogs and people, comfortable in crowds and fully vaccinated. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times (no longer than six feet). For more information, please visit www.canine.org.

Syosset

Local nursery school to host grand reopening ceremony

BY RIKKI MASSAND

On Wednesday, September 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Faith Lutheran Church and Nursery School at 231 Jackson Avenue in Syosset will welcome the community to a Grand Reopening celebration, free with light refreshments provided.

The school reopened on Tuesday September 6 and offers full-day classes for toddlers; two, three, and four-year-olds. In the summer Faith Nursery School received official relicensing from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.

At the Grand Reopening the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, and invited local elected officials, will present a ribbon-cutting ceremony and networking reception, also free to attendees and families in the Syosset/ Woodbury community.

Faith Lutheran’s Pastor Rebecca Sheridan is an Omaha, Nebraska native who moved to Long Island with her husband and young children in the summer of 2019. She has a bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary Education from Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and a Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, where she met her husband Rich, who’s originally from New Jersey.

Pastor Rebecca participates in the Syosset-Woodbury Interfaith Clergy Council meetings and activities, and serves on the board of the Long Island Council of Churches. She and Rich have two children – Erin and Grace – who

attended Faith Nursery School and now attend Village Elementary of the Syosset Central School District. Last school year their younger daughter Grace graduated from the nursery’s Pre-K, completing a half-day mornings’ program.

“We will hold tours of our classrooms and the staff will be on-site for any prospective families. So far our school year is going great and although we still have space, nursery spots have filled up quickly. Enrollment has been good but the challenge for us is Universal Pre-K (for four-year olds) by New York State. We currently have six nursery school staff members leading classes,” Pastor Sheridan said.

Early this year Sheridan was confirmed as a member of the Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors when former Chamber President Chanbir Kaur stepped down from the board.

“I enjoy participating with the Chamber board as we’re giving back to the community and helping out small businesses. That’s really important to maintain a healthy and strong community – I appreciate the support from the chamber for Faith Lutheran Church and Nursery School and I’m happy to give back some of what we’ve received,” she said.

This spring and early summer, Pastor Sheridan was a key contributor to the Chamber’s organization and promotion of the 3rd Congressional district primary forum among candidates in the Democratic field, held in front of a crowd of over 400 people at Syosset High

School on Tuesday, August 2. Thanks to her and other chamber board members’ efforts in promotion and social media marketing for the event, the SHS auditorium was full and the greater community had the opportunity to view (both in-person and streamed online) and participate in the event. Pastor Sheridan helped Chamber President Russell Green, another Syosset resident whose children attended the local public schools, with several pieces of planning for the “CD3 Forum 2022.”

In early 2020, pre-pandemic and six months into her position as pastor of Faith Lutheran Church, Sheridan hosted a very well-attended chamber of commerce general meeting with the 2020 chamber president, Woodbury resident Maureen Nickel. Then with the pandemic regulations having been loosened in March of 2021 the chamber returned for another meeting to Faith Lutheran.

During the height of the pandemic two and a half years ago, the Nursery had to shut down its operations. Heading into the fall for the 2020-2021 school year, after careful evaluation that summer (2020), a difficult decision to temporarily suspend the program at Faith Nursery School was reached.

Faith Nursery school first reopened for sessions last fall, with its new academic director and lead teacher in place: Levittown native and Island Trees High School alumna Leeann Sigona-Hernandez. Last year, following the 15-month closure of the Nursery School, Hernandez said reestablishing children’s programs.

Information on the Nursery School programs is available online or by emailing school@faithsyosset.org or calling the school office at 516-921-3330. The school is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In anticipation of every school year, Faith Nursery School does a mailing to all families moving into the Syosset Central School District. But many in the Syosset community stay engaged with Faith and its family programs through positive experiences.

“We are fortunate to have lists compiled to do the mailings, and particularly with Syosset families the social media marketing we have done has proven effective. The best outreach and connection we can make has been through our local families and word-of-mouth with neighbors and friends, from so many families who are happy with the Nursery program,” Pastor Sheridan explained.

This Halloween, Monday October 31, Faith Nursery will be holding a Trunkor-Treat event from 4 to 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the Syosset/ Woodbury community, for children of all ages to pick up some candy and snacks.

The Trunk-of-Treat will be in the parking lot at 231 Jackson Avenue and in the case of inclement weather, in the church hall downstairs.

“The event will be after school in Syosset, offering our neighbors a safe place to trick-or-treat!” Pastor Sheridan said.

For more information visit FaithSyosset.org

Grants available for renters, landlords

The Town of Oyster Bay was the recipient of $16 million in Federal funds to assist renters facing economic hardships and housing insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program, designed to help renters facing difficulty in paying their rent and utilities/home energy costs, is being administered by the Long Island Housing Partnership and the official submission period has now re-opened. Qualifying residents can submit an Intake Form now through September 16, 2022 at 5 p.m. by visiting https://www.lihp.org/ TOBerapintake.html (for the English version) and https://www.lihp.org/ TOBerapintake-SP.html (for the Spanish version) and following the links. Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “These Federal funds were granted to the Town of Oyster Bay to help residents recover from economic hardships created by the pandemic and government shutdowns. This rental assistance program provides critical funding to prevent homelessness and ensure those experiencing financial

hardship are able to recover and rebuild their lives while having a stable place to call home.”

The program is designed to assist Town residents with current and prospective rent, arrears for utilities and home energy costs, and other expenses related to housing such as rental security deposits. Both tenants and landlords may apply and both will be requested to participate (tenants must agree to participate). Assistance under this program could be provided for up to 18 months of payments and will cover arrears and costs accrued on or after March 13, 2020. Assistance is available on a first-come, first-served basis until Federal funds have been exhausted, with a priority granted to very low income households and households with a person unemployed for 90 days or more. To be eligible, a household must meet the following qualifications:

• Be renting in the Town of Oyster Bay as a primary residence (including all Villages but excluding the City of Glen Cove);

• Show that one or more individuals within the household has either qualified for unemployment benefits, experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due to the COVID-19 pandemic;

• Demonstrate that the household is at risk of homelessness or housing instability; and

• Have household income at or

below 80% of the HUD area median income based on calendar year 2020 or current projected 2022 income. Income guidelines vary based on the household size.

For more details, visit https://www. lihp.org/TOBerapintake.html (for the English version) and https://www.lihp. org/TOBerapintake-SP.html (for the Spanish version), or call the Long Island Housing Partnership at (631) 435-4710.

16, 2022

36 Hours in Amsterdam: Time-Traveling on Foot

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE

At the Jewish Museum in Amsterdam, I pick up a sheet detailing a walking tour through the Jewish Cultural Quarter which features 37 points (Rembrandthuis and the Waterlooplein flea market are included) and 12 museums, monuments and memorials. It is supposed to take about 90 minutes.

I go off to follow much of the list – which is most interesting because you go into this historic neighborhood where you almost hear the voices of the people who lived there, certainly feel their presence. It feels a bit like time travel.

Across the street from the Jewish Museum, which is housed in four former synagogues including the Great Synagogue, is one of the most beautiful and grandest synagogues of the world, the Portuguese Synagogue. Dating from 1675 (just four years after the Great Synagogue), this Sephardic synagogue is in fact a whole religious complex with the synagogue, archives, a mortuary, and a library.

Known as The Esnoga, the Portuguese Synagogue was designed by Elias Bouman, who had also helped design the Great Synagogue of the Ashkenazim across the road. Elias Bouman later became the city’s chief architect. The colossal building dominated its surroundings then, as it still does today. When finished, it was the largest synagogue in the world, and even centuries ago, was a tourist attraction (Mr. Visserplein 3, jck.nl/ en/longread/portuguese-synagogue)

The Portuguese Synagogue is still used for religious services (it’s Saturday so I don’t get to go inside),

Rembrandt’s famous “Night Watch” can be seen through glass where it is undergoing conservation at the Rijksmuseum © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

but on most days you can buy a ticket to see inside. It is renowned for its exquisite 17th century interior.

The Great Synagogue was destroyed in the Holocaust (it was restored and turned into a museum in 1961), but the Portuguese Synagogue was saved apparently because Hitler wanted to leave a trace of the vanished nation (I was told much the same about how Prague’s Jewish Quarter managed to survive.)

The world’s oldest functioning Jewish library, Ets Haim Livraria Montezinos, which is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is also here in the Portuguese Synagogue (Mr. Visserplein 3).

Outside the Portuguese Synagogue is the Jonas Daniel Meijerplain, a square named for Jonas Daniel Meijer who in 1796 became the first Dutch Jew to receive a doctoral degree. He was a leader in the Jewish struggle for emancipation and equal rights (which was won in 1796). There are Stolpersteine (small memorial plaques) in front of houses that are along the square (nos. 13, 15, 19)

that bear the names of Jews who lived there and were murdered by the Nazis. (I saw these Stolpersteines in Dordrecht, as well.)

In the square is the February Protest Monument commemorating the strike of the Amsterdam dock workers on February 24, 1941, to protest persecution of Jews. The strike has been followed by protest actions all over the city: in public transport, schools and in some companies. Strike actions also took place in several cities around Amsterdam and in Utrecht. Although the Nazi administration, which invaded the Netherlands in 1940, managed to suppress the strike within just a few days, killing nine of the protesters, injuring many and perpetuating several other ruthless actions, the open protest against the Nazis had the symbolic importance for all people in the Netherlands. The monument represents a striking worker called “De Dokwerker”. The sculpture is by Mari Andriessen, a sculptor who during the war refused membership of the Nazi-led artist union and hid

Jewish friends at his home to save them from death.

I visit as many of the sites as I can, and finally come to the National Holocaust Memorial, which only opened in September 2021. It’s the first in the Netherlands to name all 102,000 Dutch Jews, Sinti and Roma who were killed by the Nazis during World War II. Designed by Polish-American architect Daniel Liebeskind, the 102,000 bricks, each bearing the name of a victim, form the shape of four Hebrew letters meaning “in memory of.”

Of the 107,000 deported to concentration camps, only 5200 Jews and 30 Santi and Roma survived. “A warning for all generations, all over the world and in the future,” a plaque reads.

Tickets to all the Jewish Cultural Quarter exhibits may be purchased at any of the participating institutions; free admission is provided with the Amsterdam Holland Pass, iAmsterdam Pass, Museum Card, Friends of The Jewish Historical Museum, ICOM, Rembrandt Association. Tickets to the Jewish Historical Quarter are valid 1 month for a multiple access to all exhibits. Tickets to concerts at the Portuguese Synagogue: € 13.50.

You can also sign up for a walking tour with a knowledgeable, personal guide, www.amsterdam.info/jewish/.

I’ve allocated time to walk over to the Rijksmuseum for my timed ticket, which brings me through more of the neighborhoods that seem so far removed in time and place from what I had just experienced.

The big attraction at the Rijksmuseum (I only have two hours before closing) is Rembrandt’s famous “Night Watch” painting (I hadn’t realized it is the size of an entire wall),

Continued on next page

36 Hours in Amsterdam: Time-Traveling on Foot

and you get to see it as it is being conserved, behind a glass-enclosed studio. A docent is there to answer questions about it.

On the way back to Sofitel Legend Grand Amsterdam Hotel, I find myself walking through the Red Light District, jam-packed with people. Here you can also visit museums to Erotica, Prostitution, assorted peep shows and museums devoted to Hash, Marijuana and Hemp . Even the public toilet is titillatingly called the “Sexy Loo.”

You also see posters on the bridges warning of fines for peeing in the canal or taking alcohol out of the district, and as the evening grows later, more and more police presence.

Diamonds!

The next morning, before I have to get to the airport (and after enjoying a terrific breakfast at the hotel), I tour the Gassan Diamonds, a historic place which had great importance in the Jewish Quarter.

Initially, Jews were not permitted into Amsterdam’s guilds, so the only occupations that were open to them were street trading (hence the giant flea market at Waterlooplein), financing, book printing and diamond cutting. In the 19th century many Jews worked in the flourishing diamond trade and industry.

Amsterdam has been famous for its diamonds since the 16th century, and after 400 years, the city is still regarded as a diamond trading center of the world. The popular brilliant-cut with 57 facets which was developed in Amsterdam is known as the “Amsterdam-cut”.

There are about a dozen diamond

BY CHARLYN FARGO

A new study finds eating a healthy breakfast -- together at home -- goes a long way to help your children’s psychosocial health.

We already know that eating a healthy breakfast is important to help children’s cognitive scores at school. This study

factories in Amsterdam left, five which offer guided tours.

Gassan Diamonds has played a pivotal role in Amsterdam’s diamond history, as well as in Jewish life in Amsterdam. The diamond factory was built in 1879 by the Boas brothers, and at the time was the largest diamond factory in Europe. It was shut down during World War II, and resurrected by Samuel Gassan, whose father actually worked there as a diamond cutter.

Samuel Gassan stayed in Switzerland until the end of the war, became a captain in the British Army. Working in the repatriation service, he helped children of diamond workers who had lost their parents and who had been held captive in Bergen-Belsen, return to the Netherlands.

In October 1945, having returned to Amsterdam, Samuel, now 35, opened his own diamond trading company, Firma Gassan, in the Diamond Exchange on the Wesperplein. He traveled all over Europe selling his diamonds. Five years later he owned his own diamond cutting factory on the Zwanenburgerstraat.

On the tour, we get to see the diamond polishers at their craft, while a guide explains how they turn rough diamonds into dazzling brilliants. And Gassan has taken the “Amsterdam cut” to a new level, patenting the technique of the Gassan 121 diamond – a diamond cut with 121 facets to dazzling effect.

I am taken into a room where, even though it is Sunday morning, there are a couple of people polishing diamonds. My guide explains the three-step process: cutting (phosphorous blade, rotates 6400/min, coated with olive oil and diamond dust because only a diamond can cut diamond; shaping and

elevating sharp edges (not sparkling yet); and third, polishing with olive oil and diamond dust to make facet. Facets are what make the diamond clear and sparkling.

It takes 3 to 4 working days to prepare one diamond.

A brilliant cut has 57 facets (33 on top, 24 on bottom), which originated in Amsterdam and is known as the “Amsterdam cut.” But, she explains, Gassan (pioneered and patented) a 121facet diamond with exponentially more refraction.

Luna, who I watch polishing a diamond, has had three years experience (it takes two years to learn basics, 10-20 years to perfect, and by the time you are ready to retire, you are a master). A half carat is the biggest diamond she has worked on, she tells me.

This 1879 building is long and narrow because it was built before electricity, so the workers were dependent upon natural light, and used steam system (you can see the pipes).

In a display case are old pieces of glass with names etched with diamond into it. “This was a Jewish neighborhood and a Jewish company,” she tells me. “A lot of Jews worked here. During World War II, most were killed, so we keep the glass with their names. Gassan’s own father was a diamond worker in the factory here. After the war, Samuel acquired the old factory.”

My guide takes me into a small room to explains the different elements that go into the quality (and price) of a diamond - carats, colors, clarity, cuts and, of course, the ultimate Gassan 121- and fortunately, you can buy here at factory price (and get the 16% tax refunded at airport). ”You can choose a diamond

NUTRITION NEWS

Family Breakfast Benefits

found eating a healthy breakfast was just as important for children’s behaviors.

In the study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, researchers found that missing breakfast or eating breakfast away from home was linked to higher odds of psychosocial behavioral problems.

“Our results suggest that it is not only important to eat breakfast, but it’s also important where young people eat breakfast and what they eat,” said Jose Francisco Lopez-Gil, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Cuenca, Spain, in a press release. “Skipping breakfast or eating breakfast away from home is associated with increased likelihood of psychosocial behavioral problems in children and adolescents.”

Using data from the Spanish National Health Survey, Lopez-Gil and colleagues analyzed the eating habits of 3,773 children aged 4 to 14 years. To gather infor-

today, choose setting and it will be ready within 30 to 60 minutes – ring, necklace, earrings.” You can also peruse the jewelry store, filled with luxury items.

Gassan also offers a VIP tour through the diamond factory and the in-house Rolex boutique which includes a glass of champagne, a goodie bag and the chance to chat with a certified Rolex watchmaker. Or you can take a seat behind the grinder yourself with the Diamond Polishing Experience, where you can apply the final facets to your own diamond.

Gassan Diamonds, Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173-175, www.gassan.com/ en/tours/gassan-historical-tour

I time it so I get back to the Sofitel Legend Grand Amsterdam hotel in time for its daily tour of this fascinating place that played such an important role in Holland’s history, and still have time for one last walk through the historic district to Amsterdam’s Central Station. It’s a hop-skip-jump on the train to Schiphol Airport (2nd class ticket does just fine), all of about 15 minutes ride. Pre-purchase the IAmsterdam City Card, which provides access to the city’s major highlights and more than 70 museums, city-wide public transport, a canal cruise and bicycle rental. You also get discounts at restaurants, attractions and concerts. https://www.iamsterdam.com/ en/i-am/i-amsterdam-city-card. Plan your visit at www.iamsterdam. com/en.

mation on psychosocial behavior, parents of the children who participated in the study completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, reporting details about the child’s anxiety, self-esteem, mood and more.

This study of Spanish families may have been unusual as nearly every participant ate breakfast at home -- 98.9% ate breakfast overall and 95.8% ate it at home -- and most had what researchers deemed normal psychosocial behavior (87%). That number of breakfasts eaten at home might be much lower in America since many elementary and middle-school students eat breakfast at school.

The most reported breakfast meals in the study were cereals, toast, pastries and bread.

The researchers found that children who skipped breakfast regularly faced much higher odds of having psychosocial behavioral problems -- at least three

times more than those of children who ate breakfast regularly. Children who ate breakfast away from their homes were

Continued on page 5

Crossword Answers

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Starting anew after retirement

My friend, Julie, retired from a fulltime job on Long Island and moved to Williamsport, Pa., two years ago. Before leaving her job of 25 years she had a big retirement party with 75 people at her favorite restaurant. Friends and co-workers went to the podium and spoke about events

Julie told me that night over coffee and slices of red velvet layer cake that she was sad to leave her job and co-workers but she and her husband, Dennis, were looking forward to starting a new adventure in Pennsylvania.

Because they were still young-ish, they were going to start second careers. Julie wanted to own a store of her own and Dennis, who had worked as a mechanic for most of his life, wanted to fix up antique cars. That had always been his dream and Julie told him to go for it. The shop he worked at was in Linden, Pa., which was just a 10 or 15-minute drive from home.

They had four friends in Williamsport, New Yorkers Julie and Dennis knew who had retired there six years prior. Williamsport is in Lycoming County and they decided to rent for a year or two before buying a house. The county seat, Williamsport is known for being a suburban city - it’s a large city compared to the surrounding rural towns but by most standards it’s not a huge city. There are plenty of things to do in Williamsport and in the fall there’s plenty of apple cider and apple picking and trick or treating.

During the winter months there are plenty of cold-weather sports to engage in and on weekends Julie and Dennis enjoyed snow skiing. Williamsport is in northern Pennsylvania - it’s roughly 78 miles southwest of Elmira, N.Y. They tried snow shoeing since they had never done that before. There were lots of new opportunities all around. They both missed Long Island but exploring a new area was fun.

Julie looked into owning a bookstore, and a restaurant and a donut shop but

after careful thought she decided to open a bed & breakfast inn which she named The Silver Inn. She hired employees to help her at the inn which gave her time to enjoy her hobbies and shopping in the surrounding towns. She and Dennis enjoyed exploring Williamsport and the areas outside the city - the clothing stores, antique shops, thrift shops and gift shops. She liked browsing and seeing what was new.

Back in Williamsport, when their two grown children, two sons-in-law and five grandchildren visited for a week in mid-October, there was more than enough room for them at The Inn.

Julie made the living room and dining room at The Inn warm and inviting with the comfortable couches and chairs adorned with colorful throw pillows. A large baby grand piano stood in a corner of the room and any guest who could play the piano was encouraged to do so. Julie kept a sign-in book and a silver bell just inside the front door on a wooden stand and whenever the grandkids arrived, no matter what time of day or night it was, they would rush to see who would ring the bell first. Then, after saying hi and giving hugs all around, the kids would head upstairs to see where they were staying.

The upstairs guest rooms were cozy - some rooms had fireplaces and overlooked the road. Other rooms faced the back yard with its tall trees and oversized bushes. During last fall’s visit the nine of them stayed at The Inn the week before Halloween and the pyracantha bushes were in full bloom. With their bright red colors, they lit up the yard. It was beautiful to look at when sundown came.

Julie was a natural when it came to being an innkeeper. Her face lit up when every guest entered her door and she was especially happy when so many of her relatives stayed. Working in her kitchen one morning Julie turned out batch after batch of hot spooky-looking but delicious-tasting Halloween cookies, cookies that were shaped and decorated

like witches, goblins and scarecrows. Her daughters were impressed with her baking and after they had cooled off and been decorated, the grandkids gobbled them right down.

One day they all went to a local Fun Zone and played laser tag, jumped on trampolines and played different arcade games. The adults and older kids went for the golf simulator and everyone had a great time. The younger kids had naps after returning to the B&B - all of the action had tired them out.

The week their relatives visited happened to be Julie’s birthday so one afternoon before dinner Elaina baked a cake in the kitchen as the kids watched (helped). Elaina had a knack for icing and decorating cakes so she baked her mother’s chocolate layer cake then used a vanilla buttercream frostingher favorite flavors! Topping it off with “Happy Birthday, Grandma” in pink letters, Elaina adorned it with pink, blue and green flowers then stood back to admire her handiwork. She was

pleased.

The birthday dinner was a big hitJulie was delighted with her birthday cake which two grandkids brought out from the kitchen. After Julie blew out her birthday candles one of the kids hit the silver bell and they all burst out laughing.

After their company left, Julie and Dennis returned to their usual routines. After all of their chores were done, he’d watch the news on TV at night and Julie would catch the headlines of the day but mostly she’d be content with her crafts - she was known for making cute, creative greeting cards for family and friends’ special occasions.

Julie and Dennis’s retirement was a chance to start over - to do some different jobs before retiring in their 60s. Throughout the Williamsport area she was known as “Innkeeper Julie” but to her grandkids she would always be Grandma Julie.

This is fiction.

Why Privatizing Social Security Can’t Work

BY TOM MARGENAU

About a month or so ago, I wrote a column in which I just briefly mentioned that any plans to privatize Social Security would never work, and I said I had covered that topic in prior columns. Well, several readers told me they didn’t remember those older columns (the latest was about 4 years ago) and they asked me to address the topic again. So, here goes.

The idea of privatizing Social Security used to be all the rage back in the 1980s and 1990s. But ever since the almost catastrophic financial crash in the late 2000s, saying you want to turn Social Security over to Wall Street brokers (i.e., to “privatize” Social Security in the traditional sense of the term) is like saying you want some monkeys with a dart board to make financial decisions about our nation’s primary means of supporting older folks, people with disabilities, and surviving widows, widowers and children.

Still others claim that Social Security should be managed more like other public pension funds. Most of those funds have a diversified portfolio, with a variety of investments. But every nickel of Social Security assets is invested, by law, in U.S. treasury notes, considered by everyone the safest of all places to stash your cash. What most folks who advocate putting Social Security funds into private markets can’t comprehend is the immense size of the Social Security trust funds. Compared to a large public pension fund (like many teachers’ retirement funds or police and firefighter funds) Social Security is like Fort Knox and these public funds are just big piggy banks. Those funds may have billions of dollars in assets. But Social Security has trillions. You simply can’t compare them.

Or put it another way. Social Security makes up about one-fourth of the entire federal budget of the United States. You just don’t take a quarter of our country’s budget and put it on Wall Street. After all, would you want the federal government, via the Social Security trust fund, to be the major owner of Chevron stock or the primary investor in Phillip Morris?

A more reasonable approach to “privatizing” Social Security would allow individual taxpayers to use private or managed accounts to supplement future Social Security benefits. And when you hear talk of such proposals, please remember to ask this question: Is it a “carve-out” plan or an “add-on” plan? There is a huge difference.

Both plans involve requiring younger workers to contribute money to an IRAtype account that would offer several investment options. The worker could choose a safe but generally low-yielding account or a riskier but potentially more rewarding one. The investments from this account would then be used to augment Social Security retirement benefits.

But the difference lies in the funding details. In a carve-out plan (these are

usually the plans touted by Republicans), the worker’s IRA investment would be funded with a portion of his or her Social Security payroll tax. For example, currently 6.2% of a worker’s salary is deducted for Social Security taxes. A carveout plan might specify that 4.2% continue to be used to fund Social Security while 2% would be funneled into the private account. In other words, this plan gets its funding by carving it out of the current Social Security system.

On the other hand, an “add-on” plan (the plans usually touted by Democrats) would require a worker to contribute an extra amount to fund the private account investments. So, 6.2% of his or her salary would still be deducted to finance Social Security benefits. But in addition, that worker would be required to chip in an extra percentage point or two of salary to fund the Social Security supplement. So, this plan gets its funding by adding to the current Social Security system.

Each plan has its pros and cons. The downside to an add-on plan is that more out-of-paycheck spending would be required from workers to fund their retirement portfolio. But the advantage to the plan is its greater rewards. Most “add-on” proposals are modeled after the highly successful “Thrift Savings Plan,” an addon IRA that has been available to federal government workers for years and has given many of them the kind of financial security in retirement not usually associated with middle-class civil servants.

The upside to “carve-out” proposals is that no extra financial burden would be placed on young workers to finance the supplemental benefits. But the often-unexplained downside is that huge reductions would be necessary in future Social Security benefits. It’s just simple math. If you are going to carve out about one-third of the Social Security payroll tax to fund a worker’s private supplement, then obviously future Social Security benefits for that same worker are going to have to be cut by at least one-third. Apparently, the hope is that a well-managed private account will more than make up the difference. Also, carveout plans come with huge transitional costs. Remember: Social Security is a “pay-as-you-go” program, meaning the money deducted from today’s worker’s paychecks is used to fund benefits to current retirees. So, if you cut the amount of money going into the system, you must get funding from other sources to pay promised benefits to current retirees.

But here is the most important point I need to make about proposals for private accounts -- whether carve-out or add-on. Although they are often mentioned in the same breath as other proposals to “save Social Security,” they do nothing of the sort. Social Security’s long-range financing problems are the result of baby boomers quickly turning into senior boomers. For years, Social Security

has been working extremely well with a ratio of three workers supporting one retiree. But by the time all the boomers retire (and that will be happening at a quickening pace over the next 15 years), there will be only two workers supporting each retiree. The system simply cannot work AS IT’S CURRENTLY STRUCTURED at a two-to-one ratio.

As I’ve pointed out many times to my readers, there are many relatively modest proposals for reform that will keep the system running for many more generations. All of those possible solutions

involve either slight tax increases or moderate cuts in benefits. None of them involve the creation of private accounts for Social Security beneficiaries. I am not saying the private accounts are a bad idea. I am saying that they have nothing to do with the future financial health of the program.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has a book with all the answers. It’s called “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” You can find the book at www. creators.com/books, or look for it on Amazon or other book outlets.

REAL ESTATE WATCH

The recession and housing price stability

Some still downplay and believe that we aren’t yet in a recession, but as history as shown us two quarters of negative GDP, which we experienced in the first half of this year, that we are technically in one right now and getting worse. Will it deepen to a situation that is far more serious and worse for our economy? Based on the number of layoffs that are occurring across many industries, tech, (28,000 since the beginning of 2022) retail, shopping (100,000 from Amazon alone in the second quarter), according to insiderintellegence. com. Unlike the last two years, the slowing of business growth combined with higher wages has forced most companies to rethink their strategies going forward and to begin the layoff process in earnest.

I believe that there is and will be a future correlation between the number of layoffs and as well as the increased rates going forward with the continued reduction and softening in housing prices. Currently, this is being experienced more in the overvalued locations out west and down south, where prices over the last year increased by 25%+. But now interest rates and inflation have now had their negative effect on the market since the beginning of the year. Although Long Island’s economy has generally been very self-sufficient and stronger than the national average, future layoffs and increase in housing inventory may turn our still current seller’s market into a more balanced one or possibly a buyer’s market.

Long Island unemployment in July was 3.3% (Nassau County 3.2% and Suffolk County 3.4%) up from 2.9% in June below the national average of 3.6% as per the New York State Labor Dept. The unemployment rate for July 2022 was well below the unemployment rate recorded in July 2021 of 4.7%. The number of jobs created in July 2022 was 33,100 over July 2021. According to the labor dept., the following sectors created the most activity: 8900 jobs were added in the leisure and hospitality, 7600 jobs created in professional and business services and 7500 in trade,

transportation and utilities.

Continued from page 2

much more likely to have behavioral problems.

Because those who ate at home were more likely to do so with family members, the researchers wrote that social and family needs may factor into the results.

“Family meals are a family time that

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

Across the U.S. at least 48.1% of homeowners in the 2nd quarter had at least 50% equity in their homes compared with 34.4% a year earlier in 2021 according to real estate data company Attom. com. More information can be obtained on https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/homeowner-equity-insights/

Also today there is a basic foundational strength to the current market as there are a greater number of substantial and credit worthy purchasers. Sixty five percent of borrowers have 760 credit scores or higher in the 2nd quarter of 2022 according to the Federal Reserve Board of NY and Equifax compared with 38% from 2003-2006 where lending requirements were much more lax.

Owning rental property or multi-family units is and will be the most beneficial hedge against the recession for those who own. Moreover, the value of those properties will increase in value due to the stronger demand as there will be an excellent supply of tenants who either left the market or no longer qualify to purchase; or feeling the cost in purchasing no longer makes any economic sense. Those individuals in the service sector will need to rent and will most likely be their only way going forward due to inadequate income or substandard credit to purchase. The speed in which the housing inventory will increase will be determined in whether continued increases in rates (next increase supposedly will be 3/4% at the next Fed Meeting at the end of Sept.) to control our inflation will be successful.

The higher the rates the more demand will cool off and in turn home price deceleration. For prices to decrease, our inventory has to grow to at least 6 months. The speed in which this will advance will depend on how

fast and far rates will accelerate and the side effects of our future inflation. New construction is also slowing as overall costs to build have accelerated due to supply chain issues and the lack of availability with the Covid19 complete shutdowns in China. Moderately priced housing is a huge issue as the higher local prices have shut down the dreams of many looking to purchase their first homes and has fueled the demand in less costly states.

Although price adjustments have been occurring, the luxury market is doing faring better as the 5-10% of those buyers aren’t as affected by the economy or by mortgage rates. However, the key component in selling is pricing correctly and realizing the time it takes to find a buyer will no longer be an overnight occurrence and will take considerably longer.

Also what has come into play is that gas prices have come down over $1.50 per gallon in some areas in the last 30 days, as the U.S. government’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve has been adding one million barrels of oil per day (an allotment of 240 million barrels totally with help from our allies and partners globally) which has reduced gas prices by 40 cents a gallon. To me this is a temporary band aid fix as the war in the Ukraine drags on and I am not convinced this can continue with the lack of supply in the future and whereby gas prices could go back to higher levels. Europe and specifically Germany will have a very dismal winter since Russia has shut off the Gazprom pipeline.

However, could the current recession lag on and become worse or deepen into a possible Depression? I am predicting things could get much worse if solutions do not come to pass very soon. Unfortunately for many, it just might be a much colder winter than normal.

Continue to donate to the Ukrainian Crisis and save a life or 2: https://usaforiom.org/iomsukraine-response/

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 40 years experience in the Real Estate industry and 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.) and in 2022 has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly construction. He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to http://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

You can email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your request or ideas, suggestions or interview you for a specific topic and a Q & A for a future column with your name, email and cell number. He will email or call you back and respond to your request ASAP as long as he has your complete name, cell, email and/or full home or business address. Again, for a “FREE” 15 minute consultation, he can also be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.

provides an opportunity for families to connect despite the ongoing intense demands of modern life,” they noted.

The bottom line is family meals matter and are beneficial for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Q and A

Q: Is there a nutritional difference between oatmeal and oat bran?

A: Oatmeal is the entire oat grain, including the bran. Oat bran has been separated out and is often cooked into a hot porridge or added to baked goods. The biggest difference nutritionally is the fiber; oat bran has more fiber. Oatmeal is about 12% bran while oat bran is 100% bran. Both oatmeal and oat bran are healthy choices. Top the cooked cereals

with fresh fruit or sprinkle oat bran on Greek yogurt or cereal.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illinois. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD..

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of September 18-24, 2022

Who among us has never gazed into a starry night sky and wondered, “Are we alone in the universe?” With the hundreds of billions of stars in just our own Milky Way galaxy -- with possibly trillions of other galaxies beyond -- is it not possible that orbiting some stars there are at least a few planets where life has originated and evolved?

The question has been pondered and debated for millennia. In a letter to Herodotus, the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus wrote: “...there are infinite worlds both like and unlike this world of ours... we must believe that in all worlds there are living creatures and plants and other living things we see in this world.”

But it wasn’t until 1995 that Swiss astronomers Michael Mayor and Didier Queloz made an announcement that rocked the astronomical community -enough to earn them the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics.

They reported that the sunlike star 51 Pegasi -- affectionately known to astronomers as 51 Peg -- some 50.9 light years away appeared to be wobbling as if a planet were orbiting nearby and tugging gravitationally on it. Originally named 51 Pegasi b, this world is now called Dimidium, the Latin word for “half”, because it is believed to contain nearly half the mass of Jupiter.

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

I have a dryer that doesn’t dry. You would think that if you are a household appliance and you only have one job, you should just do it. And yet our dryer seems to have missed the memo and only kind-of-dries in the most minimal way a dryer can dry, which is to say, not really much at all.

I’ve had petulant appliances before. There was the dishwasher that flooded the kitchen out of spite when I overloaded it, the toaster oven that burnt all the toast and the garage refrigerator that stopped refrigerating when I hit it with the car for the umpteenth time. In the case of the refrigerator, I could understand why it would stop working, but the others just seemed to want to torment me.

“Maybe it’s you,” said my husband when I went on my latest appliance rant.

Are We Alone?

Astronomers calculate that this alien world orbits its parent star in only 4.2 days and that it endures a temperature of some 1,850 F (1,011 C). While a few worlds had already been reported to be circling pulsars -- and even a few technical glitches masqueraded as planets -- astronomers cite this as the first detection of a planet orbiting an ordinary star.

As of today, astronomers have found 5,159 such exoplanets. And just this year, the James Webb Space Telescope not only photographed the first planet orbiting the star HIP65426 but also found carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of a planet orbiting the star WASP-39.

But 51 Peg will always be special since it was our first. Not only that, but it’s a star that backyard stargazers can see easily.

This week, go outdoors after dark and look midway up in the eastern sky. There you should spot the four stars outlining the Great Square of Pegasus. With the accompanying map in hand, identify its shape and some of the stars that make it up.

If your sky is dark and relatively free from light pollution, try to spot 51 Peg. It’s located almost midway between the two westernmost stars of the square, and slightly west of the line connecting them.

It’s a faint star, barely visible to the naked eye, but you should have little trouble spotting it with binoculars. Don’t expect to see its planet, though;

that’s a feat reserved for today’s most sophisticated telescopes. Whether 51 Peg b -- or any other exoplanet -- is inhabited is unknown. What is clear, though, is that the chemistry for life as we know it is found everywhere in the universe, and the number of planets where life might form and evolve is increasing every day.

Yes, the question, “Are we alone?” is quite profound, with only two possible answers: yes or no.

And each is staggering in its implications!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

LOST IN SUBURBIA

One Appliance to Rule Them All

“What do you mean it’s me?” I replied.

“Well, doesn’t it seem like an awfully big coincidence that ALL your appliances would revolt against you?”

“What’s your point?”

“Maybe... you have an appliance curse.”

“You think I angered an appliance god and they put a whammy on me?” I wondered.

“With you, honey, anything is possible,” he retorted.

Naturally, the dryer had stopped working properly pretty much the minute the warranty expired. It seemed to be in cahoots with the vacuum cleaner, which did the same thing. Some people think the world is out to get them.

I’m pretty sure the appliances of the world are out to get me. I assume it’s some kind of show of solidarity for the time I threw the coffee machine across the kitchen when it shot espresso out

instead of down and nailed me and the white shirt I rode in on.

But back to the dryer. It especially seemed to take great delight in spinning my sheets and towels into a ball so nothing inside the ball dried. I know that a lot of people have similar dryer frustrations, but my dryer has it in for all my other clothes as well. If I were to put even one lone sock into the dryer for a full cycle, that too would come out damp at the end. Of course, it would only be one sock, because the washer, which also has it in for me, would have already made the other sock in the pair disappear.

Back in my great-grandmother’s day, they had to do the dishes and wash the clothes by hand, take the rug out back and beat it with a stick, and make a bad cup of coffee in a pan over a fire. Do I feel fortunate that we have all these modern appliances now, so I don’t have to burn my toast over an

open flame instead of having my toaster oven burn it for me? Yes. But why did it seem that they’d had enough appliancing and were rising up Terminator-style to overthrow mankind one lone sock at a time?

“Meanwhile, I still don’t know what to do with the sheets that roll up in a ball in the dryer so nothing else gets dry,” I said to my husband.

“Isn’t it obvious?” said my husband.

“Get a new dryer?” I wondered.

“No,” he replied. “Just don’t wash the sheets.”

Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.

This week, go outdoors after dark and look midway up in the eastern sky. There you should spot the four stars outlining the Great Square of Pegasus.

Garden City News

Mid Island Times • Bethpage Newsgram

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A 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

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COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) Computer with internet is required.

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MARKETPLACE

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516-746-8900

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Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4

Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org

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!

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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 CONTENT S ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516-270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com

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SERVICES

ARE YOU BEHIND 10K OR MORE on your taxes? Stop wage and bank levies, liens and audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, and resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361

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COMPUTERS

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Mac and Windows Repairs / Data Recovery/Virus Removal /Network Support/IT Security 516-944-5193

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

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ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off and 0% financing for those who qualify. PLUS Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-877-763-2379

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Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone. Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146

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Careful & Reliable Serving GARDEN CITY and surrounding area since 2003 Repairs & Installations of all types Carpentry, Moldings, Lighting and More 35-yr Nassau Resident References Lic#170101

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A favorite chocolate flavor shines through Force Noire Ganache

So many people love to indulge in rich chocolate every once in a while. It’s certainly possible to tempt that sweet tooth by visiting a neighborhood candy shop. But it’s just as easy to ex-

periment in the kitchen with homemade confections.

This recipe for “Force Noire Ganache” from “Chocolate Obsession: Confections and Treats to Create and Savor)”

Makes about 50 dipped squares or round truffles

1⁄2 cup (4 ounces) heavy whipping cream

(Stewart, Tabori and Chang) by Michael Recchiuti & Fran Gage showcases the predominant taste of rich chocolate and not much more. It’s certain to melt in the mouth.

1⁄4 cup plus 3 tablespoons (41⁄2 ounces by weight) invert sugar (stir before measuring)

1 Tahitian vanilla bean, split horizontally 12 ounces 61 to 70 percent chocolate, finely chopped 3 tablespoons (11⁄2 ounces) unsalted butter with 82 percent butterfat, very soft (75 F)

About 1⁄4 cup melted tempered 61 to 70 percent chocolate, if dipping squares

Tempered 61 to 70 percent chocolate for dipping squares, or unsweetened natural cocoa powder for rolling truffles

1. Stir the cream and invert sugar together in a medium saucepan. Scrape the vanilla seeds from the bean into the pan and then add the bean. Bring to a boil over medium heat, remove from the heat, and cover the top of the pan with plastic wrap. When the cream has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a bowl, cover and refrigerate overnight.

2. Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with plastic wrap.

3. Put the chocolate in a medium stainless steel bowl and set the bowl over a pot of simmering water. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate melts and registers 115° F on an instant-read thermometer. Lift the bowl from the pot.

4. When the chocolate is almost at 115° F, remove the cream from the refrigerator. Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a small saucepan and heat it to 115° F, stirring occasionally.

5. Pour the chocolate and cream into a 1-quart clear vessel. Blend with an immersion blender using a stirring motion, making sure you reach the bottom of the vessel. The ganache will thicken, becoming slightly less shiny, and develop a pudding-like consistency. Add the butter and incorporate it with the immersion blender.

6. Pour the ganache into the lined pan. Spread it as evenly as possible with a small offset spatula.

7. Allow the ganache to cool at room temperature until it has set, 2 to 4 hours. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate until

you are ready to dip squares or roll truffles.

8. Lift the square of ganache from the pan, turn it over onto a work surface, and remove the plastic wrap. If you are dipping squares, apply a thin coat of melted untempered chocolate to one side of the ganache square with a small offset spatula. (If you are making truffles, don’t apply the chocolate coating.)

9. Let the chocolate harden. Turn the ganache square over and trim the edges. Cut the ganache into 1-inch squares with a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut and wiped clean after

each cut.

10. If you are dipping squares, temper the chocolate and then dip the squares. Store the dipped chocolates in a cool, dry place, not in the refrigerator.

11. If you are making truffles, dust your palms with cocoa powder, roll the ganache squares into balls, and then coat with cocoa powder. Place the truffles in a bowl or plastic bag that contains enough cocoa powder to keep them from sticking together. Store in the refrigerator, but remove them 30 minutes before serving.

Professional Services Guide

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First day smiles at Robbins Lane School

The first day of school was filled with smiles and excitement as the buses rolled into Robbins Lane. The students were met by just as much excitement from the teachers, staff and Principal Mr. Meyers, who were waiting to greet them. The PTA dec-

orated the entrance with balloons and a festive lawn sign to make the moment even more welcoming! New kindergarteners, fifth graders and all the grades in between started off the new school year on the right foot at Robbins Lane.

So happy to be back at Robbins Lane!

The t-shirts say it all!

Already making new friends!

Stepping off into kindergarten!

Prepared for anything today!

Reunited!

This Week’s Events at the Jericho Public Library

Friday, September 16th

2:00 p.m.: HYBRID : Great Performers with Marc Courtade: Anthony Hopkins – Sir Anthony Hopkins is one of Britain’s most prolific and recognizable actors. His career has spanned six decades with performances on stage, screen and television. His career took off when he replaced an ailing Sir Laurence Olivier at The Royal National Theatre in Strindberg’s “The Dance of Death” in 1967, just before being cast in his film debut, “The Lion in Winter.” After considering retiring, he became the oldest person to win an Academy Award at age 83 in 2021, his second as Best Actor.

Saturday, September 17th

9:00 a.m.: Teens: Practice SAT/ ACT with The Princeton ReviewRegister with The Princeton Review to take either a practice ACT or SAT online. After the test, you’ll receive a comprehensive score report detailing your strengths and weaknesses. Disclaimer: By registering for either of these practice tests, you give The Princeton Review authorization to contact you via email. You can opt out of future email communications from The Princeton Review if you choose to do so. 9:30 a.m.: IN-PERSON: Paper

Shredding at the JPL: End the Clutter - Empty your drawers, clean your desk, organize your files! Shred all your excess paper safely and securely at our shredding event. All documents will be shredded in a professional mobile shredding truck while you watch all paper is recycled. No need to remove staples or paper clips. No plastic, magazines, or newspapers...paper only! No registration required for this event.

10:30 a.m.: IN-PERSON: Saturday Morning Storytime (Ages Birth to 30 Months) - This is an interactive program of rhymes, songs, stories and more.

Sunday, September 18th

2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: The Natural & Human History of the Hempstead Plains with Dr. Paul van Wie, Editor, Author, Historian - The Hempstead Plains, the only natural tallgrass prairie east of the Appalachians, once covered approximately 40,000 acres in Nassau County. Today, a small area of the Plains continues to exist as a nature preserve, a unique gem in a heavily developed area. Learn about the Plains in this special program with Dr. van Wie, history professor at Molloy College and the editor of a new book about the Plains.

Jericho Public Library holds card signup month

Gift baskets will be raffled off to new cardholders at the Jericho Public Library.

The Jericho Public Library will be hosting a gift basket raffle to help celebrate Library Card Signup month.

Want a chance to win one of three gift baskets? Each new cardholder who registers during the month of September will be entered into the raffle.

Monday, September 19th

2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: Art LectureThe Art of Venice with Mary Maguire Venice, La Serenissima, The Most Serene! - Owing to its graphic location, wealth, power and magical scenery, it has to be the crossroads for travelers and cultures for centuries. It is the most unique of cities and we will bask in its opulence. We will surely check out St. Mark’s Square to explore the legend of those ubiquitous pigeons, pop into the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Then check out the art scene at the Academia and the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. Noted as a center for pleasure and the playground of the privileged, we will join in Mardi Gras celebrations and learn what’s going on behind all those masks!

7:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: Elementary Science: Shiny Pennies (Pre-K to Grade 2) - Become a scientist as you conduct experiments with just a few common household materials. This month, we will take dull, dirty pennies and make them shiny again!

Tuesday, September 20th

11:00 a.m.: IN-PERSON: Voting Help with the North Shore Branch of American Association of University Women - Are you a new voter? Have you had a name change or address change? Come to the Jericho Library for hands-on help! Please bring appropriate ID — driver license, birth certificate, utility bill.

4:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Art Workshop with Art Teacher Amy (Grades 1–6) - Learn about elephants, draw one, then color it with pencils and watercolors! No prior art experience necessary!

7:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Fall into Monarchs (Grade 6 and Up)Monarch butterflies are among the most recognizable insects in America, with an astounding autumn migration seen throughout Long Island lasting thousands of miles. A series of manmade problems are causing an ongoing and serious population decline. Find out about the monarch’s life cycle, what they do for us, and what we can do for them. Teens who attend will earn 1 hour of community service credit.

7:00 p.m.: HYBRID: Talk About Books with Fran Cohen: The World

Played Chess by Robert Dugoni

The World Played Chess by Robert Dugoni - A character driven story about three generations of young men growing up and how fate intervenes with their dreams and friendships. Listeners are welcome!

Wednesday, September 21st

10:30 a.m.: IN-PERSON: Songs for Baby’s Day (Ages Birth to 30 Months)

Come and enjoy this literacy building, fun and educational musical storytime. 2:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Movie and Discussion: “Impresarios and Visionaries” Movie Screening followed by Filmmaker Steve Taub Discussing the Film - Documentary -This is an entertaining and inspirational documentary that explores the positive influence that the arts have on community. Featuring David Bromberg, Sandy Chapin and Vic Skolnick among others. Runtime 42 minutes.

7:00 p.m.: Teens: Owl JournalWhether keeping track of goals, creating better habits, recording homework or creating space to reflect on values and beliefs, a journal can be a powerful and useful tool. Teens will paint an owl on the cover of their own journal, briefly talking about the different reasons and best approaches to journaling.

Thursday, September 22nd

1:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Adult Game Time - We’re setting up the Meeting Room with tables and chairs. Bring a game to play along with your friends for an afternoon of fun and relaxation. Play canasta, mah jongg, Scrabble or any other game of your choice.

7:00 p.m.: IN-PERSON: Chess (Grades 1-6) - Whether you’re new to the game or an avid player, this program will help improve your game and develop new strategies and skills.

Friday, September 23rd

2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL: The Lives of America’s “First Kids” with Valerie Gugala - What is it like to be the child of a United States president? Some presidential kids were already grown while others were small. Some were happy and excited to move into the White House and others were not. Beginning with George Washington’s stepchildren we will discuss their lives before, during and after their father’s term of office.

Winners will be announced on October 3. Raffles will be drawn at random for each basket - no need to choose which one you want.

The Library is located at 1 Merry Lane, Jericho.

Syosset Library celebrates a summer of great reading

Long Island author Ellen Meister spoke about her work and helped distribute more than 100 prizes at Syosset Library’s Adult Summer Reading Club Wrap-Up Party in August.

Author and Long Island resident Ellen Meister recently visited the Syosset Public Library to speak about her most recent novel, “Take My Husband” (August 2022), with Adult Summer Reading club members at SPL’s 13th Annual Adult Summer Reading Club Wrap-Up Party. It was an encore appearance for Ms. Meister, who was the featured guest at the 2012 wrap-up party.

Ms. Meister is the author of eight novels. She began her career as a copywriter and published her first novel, “Secret Confessions of the Applewood PTA,” in 2006. She currently teaches creative writing privately and at Long Island University Hutton House. Some career highlights include appearances on NPR and being selected for the prestigious Indie Next List by the American Booksellers Association. Her nonfiction has appeared in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal blog, Huffington Post, Daily Beast, Long Island Woman, Writer's Digest, and other venues. All of her novels are available at the library.

This year, 126 residents joined the Adult Summer Reading Club. They submitted 804 titles over nine weeks. Club members were eligible to win prizes, everyone who read at least five books received a free book, and 20 door prizes and 71 raffle prizes were awarded at the Wrap-Up Party.

For support of the summer reading program, on behalf of the Syosset Library, the Readers’ Services

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Friday, September 16, at 2:00 p.m. Friday Movie at the Library (IN-PERSON)

Join us for an afternoon movie at the library. Check our website for the movie that will be shown. Go to syossetlibrary.org.

Sunday, September 18, at 1:00 p.m. Back to Bachrach and Beyond (IN-PERSON)

Presenters: Christine and Elliot Spiro

This show will take you on a journey through Burt Bacharach’s greatest songs with some surprises. Bacharach, who is considered one of the most important composers of 20th-century popular music, has composed hundreds of pop songs from the late 1950s through the 1980s, mostly in collaboration with lyricist Hal David. Travel back in time with us. Registration is required. Register at syossetlibrary.org.

Tuesday, September 20, at 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon Book Discussion: “House of Thieves” by Charles Belfoure (IN-PERSON)

Thursday, September 22, at 2:00 p.m. “Carmen” (HYBRID)

Presenter: Tanisha Mitchell, librarian at Freeport Library and MET, opera singer

Once a controversial opera, “Carmen” is now the most popular opera performed internationally. “Carmen is a timeless representation of love, lust and seduction gone wrong. Join us for a discussion of the opera as well as an aria performed by the presenter. No registration needed. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Thursday, September 22, at 2:00 p.m. Putting Your Garden to Bed (VIRTUAL)

Presenter: Linda Reilly, Cornell University Cooperative Extension

How to get ready for winter and ensure success next season. Topics include perennials, soil pH testing, and composting. For Zoom link, register at syossetlibrary.org.

Department would like to thank the following local businesses for their generous donations to the 2022 Adult Summer Reading Club: Amy’s Boutique, Bagel Boss, Blue Jean Baby, Butera’s Restaurants, Center Coffee Shop, CS Nails, Spa, Facial, Denny’s Childrenswear, Dugan’s Sandwich Shop, Dunkin Donuts, Eastern Breeze Nails & Spa, Fingers, Faces & Toes, Frantoni’s Pizzeria & Ristorante, Gabby’s Gourmet, The Girls Room, Gloss Salon New York, Great Hands, Greek Xpress, Iavarone Brothers, Jerrie Shop, John Michael Salon, Kenny’s Menswear, La Femme Dangereuse, Majestic Image Salon, Mara’s Southern Kitchen, Mario’s Pizzeria, Max & Gino’s All-American Clothing Co., Meyer’s Farm Stand, Mixology Clothing Company, Ms’tique Boutique, New Country Deli, Naot Footwear, On Parade Diner, One Small Step Children’s Shoes, Paradise Nails, Party City, Pasta-eria Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria, Pokēworks, Ray Leventhal Clothing, Realistic Nails, ShopRite Plainview, Sushi Vogue, Tenjin Japanese Restaurant, Trader Joe’s, Twenty5A, Woodbury Sports, Your Face By Brittany Lace.

The Library would also like to thank the following publishers for their generous book donations: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, Hachette Book Group, HarperCollins Publishers, Macmillan Publishers, Penguin Random House, Sourcebooks, Workman Publishing, W.W. Norton & Company.

Join Jackie Ranaldo, Head of Readers’ Services, for an in-person discussion of the historical fiction novel House of Thieves by Charles Belfoure. Copies of the book will be available at the Circulation Desk. No registration needed.

Thursday, September 22, from 1:45 – 3:00 p.m.

Seniors of Syosset Drop in Session (IN-PERSON)\

Funded through New York State Office for the Aging, Seniors of Syosset is a Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community program (NNORC-SOS). The program will offer social work support, community health nursing, volunteer-based transportation to local medical appointments and shopping, and other activities and services, including some at the library! Whether you are a senior in need of support, someone who wants to volunteer helping the community, or just someone who wants to learn more, we hope you will drop-in and get involved!

Friday, September 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. St. Francis Outreach Bus for Flu Shots (IN-PERSON)

The flu shot is available for seniors (65 and older). Stop by for your flu shot and basic health screening (brief cardiac history, blood pressure, and simple blood test for cholesterol and diabetes.) No appointment needed.

Bus will be in the front parking lot of the library.

Friday, September 23, at 2:00 p.m.

The Mystery of Johannes Vermeer (HYBRID)

Presenter: Louise Cella Caruso, art lecturer and appraiser

Atmosphere, distinctive light, perspective, a sense of calm - the extravagant use of lead-tin yellow and ultramarine - all characteristics of the authentic works of the most mysterious of all the Dutch Masters of the 17th century. Vermeer’s works are timeless and remain as wonderous and mysterious today as when they were first painted. No registration needed. For Zoom link, go to syossetlibrary.org.

Property tax exemption workshops scheduled

Nassau County Legislator Arnold Drucker

Nassau County Legislators Arnold Drucker (D-Plainview) and Josh Lafazan (D-Woodbury), in in conjunction with the Nassau County Department of Assessment, announces the 2022 series of Property Tax Exemption Workshops for local residents.

During the workshops, Department of Assessment staff will assist residents with filing for veteran, senior citizen, Cold War veteran, volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker, limited-income disability and/or home improvement exemptions. Enhanced STAR applications will also be processed for homeowners already enrolled in the STAR program prior to Jan. 2, 2015.

All workshops are from 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Nassau County Legislator Josh Lafazan

Participants should bring copies of their 2021 federal and state income tax returns and other required documentation with them to workshops; for a complete list, visit https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/3575/Exemption-Forms or call the Nassau County Department of Assessment at 516-571-1500.

Upcoming local workshops include:

• Monday, October 3: Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset

• Thursday, October 6: Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville

• Thursday, October 20: Plainview Jewish Center, 95 Floral Drive, Plainview

“One Last Summer Blast”

concert on September 17

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that the Lords of 52nd Street will play ‘One Last Summer Blast’ concert at Ellsworth W. Allen Park in Farmingdale on Saturday, September 17, at 7 p.m. This free concert will offer residents one last chance to enjoy some free musical entertainment before the fall season officially arrives. The Lords of 52nd Street features the legends of The Billy Joel Band, including Richie Cannata, Liberty DeVitto, and Russell Javors.

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino

Walk for Recovery planned for September 18

The Town of Oyster Bay recently announced that it is partnering with Long Island United for Recovery to host its 7th annual walk, taking place on Sunday, September 18, at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa. Check-in begins at 10:30 a.m. for an 11 a.m. walk start time. The event will be held rain or shine.

“We invite all residents to join us at this event, which will honor those who have lost their battle, encourage advocacy and awareness to create change, support those in the flight, and celebrate those in recovery,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We thank Long Island United for Recovery for all of their efforts to bring resources together to support those in need.”

Participants in the walk will be supporting those struggling with the disease of addiction, and celebrating those

in recovery and their family members. The event will have a resource fair, banner signing, recovery speakers as well as a DJ, free raffles, giveaways, activities for children, and refreshments.

“We thank Long Island United for Recovery and Drug Free Long Island for their partnership in bringing such important programs like this to the Town of Oyster Bay, helping to raise awareness and provide support for those who need it most,” said Councilwoman Maier.

To register or donate, visit https://7thannualliunitedwalk.ezregister.com. Any questions or inquiries about how to volunteer, can be directed to jtalento@drugfreeli.org. For more information, visit facebook.com/uniteforrecovery.

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.

stated, “The Lords of 52nd Street are legends of rock n’ roll and put on an amazing performance each time out, recreating all of Billy Joel’s indelible hits that they were originally a part of. The Town is proud to present this free concert to residents.”

Residents are invited to bring chairs or blankets for seating, which begins after 4 p.m. This outdoor event is being held weather permitting – visit facebook.com/townofoysterbay or call (516) 797-7925 for all up-to-date information.

Town: Renew your wedding vows

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to renew their wedding vows at a group ceremony scheduled for Thursday, September 22, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay. The special ceremony begins at 11 a.m. and will take place along the beach, with beautiful views of Oyster Bay Harbor. Light refreshments will be served to guests.

“Our beautiful beach and picturesque harbor provide the perfect backdrop for couples who are looking to celebrate their love, and what better day to “fall” in love all over again than the first day of fall,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “We look forward to sharing this wonderful day with happy

couples who want to declare their endless love for one another.”

The ceremony will take place by the gazebo at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach, located off Larrabee Avenue in Oyster Bay hamlet. The event is offered free of charge to Town residents but reservations are required. Residents interested in renewing their wedding vows should RSVP by Friday, September 16, by contacting (516) 624-6380.

“We are so pleased to offer this wonderful event again in our beautiful hamlet and hope our residents come out and join us in affirming their commitment to one another,” added Town Clerk LaMarca.

Registration for youth ice hockey program

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that registration for the Town’s Fall/Winter Youth Ice Hockey House League Program will begin soon for boys and girls ages 6–16. This program includes full House League games, practice schedule and playoffs. Clinics spanning 10 weeks in duration will also be available for registration including all girls clinics, 6 and under clinics, and adult learn to play clinics. Programs will begin on October 3.

“This recreational and instruction program is designed to give youngsters a great way to learn the correct fundamentals of one of America’s most popular sports,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “In addition to receiving instruction on the proper techniques of skating, stickhandling and shooting, participants will make new friends and create lifelong memories.”

Registration will begin online for Town residents on September 12 and

September 13 at www.oysterbaytown.com/parks beginning at 9:00 a.m.; online registration will open to non-residents on September 14. In-person registration will be held on September 19 and 20 at the Bethpage Ice Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue in Bethpage from 6:00 pm to 9:00 p.m. Registrants must provide a copy of their birth certificate, proof of Town of Oyster Bay residency (tax or utility bill) as well as payment.

Check, money order, MasterCard or Visa will be accepted. All registrants must bring these items, even if they have participated in the past. A parent or legal guardian must be present at registration.

All participants must provide their own equipment, and should have some skating ability. For more information, call the rink at (516) 433-7465, x 8234 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/hockey.

Water district: Backf low device testing required

The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind Plainview-Old Bethpage residents and commercial customers that the New York State Health Department (NYSDOH) and Nassau County Health Department require annual testing of backflow devices. This compliance testing must be performed by a certified backflow tester and completed prior to December 31, 2022 to ensure these devices are functioning properly.

“It is crucial to verify that a backflow device is functioning properly to ensure that potentially harmful contaminants are kept out of the POB community’s water system,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “Backflow devices keep harmful chemicals like fertilizers, weed killers, and other lawn products from finding their way into the water distribution system water mains should a low-pressure event occur.”

Backflow devices are mechanical double-check valves that prevent water flow from reversing away from a building in the event of a loss of water pressure. A loss in pressure can occur when a fire is being put out or there is a water main break. These devices must be tested annually to make certain they are installed and functioning properly. Residents are required to have a backflow device if they have any of the following: in-ground sprinklers, fire lines, swimming pools, or a private well that is interconnected with the public water supply.

“Practicing prevention is a key component of keeping yourself and your neighbors throughout the POB community safe, as it is impossible to predict when and where an emergency resulting

in a drop of pressure may occur,” said Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Testing backflow devices is part of these necessary precautionary and preventative efforts for all customers in our District. If a backflow device is not properly installed, chemicals and other pollutants can potentially and unknowingly infiltrate the community’s water.”

The District encourages all residents and businesses to arrange for a NYSDOH certified backflow tester to conduct their annual backflow test to avoid any potential penalties for noncompliance. The Plainview Water District keeps an up-todate list of New York State licensed backflow testers on its website, www.plainviewwater.org/resources/backflow/. The District also maintains its own dedicated Cross-Connection Control Department to help residents with compliance questions that can be reached at 516-931-6469.

“We encourage residents to make this annual backflow testing a priority within their households, as it is such an important aspect of helping us Preserve Plainview,” said PWD Commissioner Amanda Field “We ask that any POB resident that may have any questions or concerns regarding backflow testing to please reach out to the District, so we can assist you in this important process.” If you have questions or seek additional information, please call the District at 516-931-6469 or email info@plainviewwater.org. Residents are also encouraged to sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.

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