Syosset Advance (12/6/19)

Chamber gears up for Holiday Spectacular

Former Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce president Chanbir Kaur, host of the December 12 Holiday Party, with Maggie Voleo of Woodbury's One River School of Art and Design; Chamber co-chair for Membership Carolyn Palladino, ; 2020 Chamber President Maureen Nickel, and Ken Shah, cardio-pulmonary program director for Excel at Woodbury.

Apartment fire in Woodbury

The Syosset Fire Department responded to an apartment fire on Sunday, November 30 at 9:45 p.m. in Woodbury.

According to Nassau County Police, Second Precinct Police responded for an apartment fire that occurred at 114 Fairhaven Boulevard. Upon arrival, police observed

heavy black smoke emitting from the building. Police evacuated all nearby apartments of their occupants and insured that no one was still inside. No injuries reported at scene.

The Syosset Fire Department responded and was assisted by the Plainview Fire Department, Bethpage

Fire Department, Huntington Manor Fire Department and the East Norwich Fire Department. Which consisted of approximately ten  pieces of apparatus and more than fifty firefighters.  Arson/ Bomb Squad detectives and fire marshalls responded to the scene. The investigation is ongoing.

BY RIKKI MASSAND

This Sunday, join Syosset, Woodbury and Jericho neighbors, local businesses and elected officials as well as guest entertainers including area students as the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce celebrates the Holiday Season with its annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Spectacular -- starting at 3:30 pm on Sunday, December 8, at the Sterling National Bank, 50 Jackson Avenue parking triangle (formerly Astoria Savings Bank) in Syosset, across from the LIRR station. Entertainment on Sunday will include six to seven acts of performers from Syosset Central School district, from the younger elementary grade students all the way up with several Syosset High Schoolers.

The chairman of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber’s Holiday Spectacular Committee is Frank S. Urso, a realtor with Homes by Mara (30 Berry Hill Road in Syosset) and a founding member of the business chamber “2.0” in 1998. Urso addressed the audience at the November Chamber of Commerce meeting, held at Excel at Woodbury one week before Thanksgiving. He explained this year as the 21st year of the tree lighting on Jackson Avenue.

Frank Urso says the annual Holiday Spectacular, a free public event, is the Chamber of Commerce’s unique way of giving back to the community and all residents and businesses that have helped merchants and companies in the area thrive throughout the year.

“I have been doing this for 21 years and a lot of Chamber volunteers and area businesses contrib-

ute to make this more and more successful. We get basically a Broadway show with the showmobile stage (from the Town of Oyster Bay or Nassau County). The performers will be singing in groups and part of dance troupes, and they will be inside the showmobile stage which will have beautiful holiday decorations. We usually get an audience of at least 400 to 500, hopefully our weather will be fantastic for it -- this is a very big Syosset holiday spectacular! This is yet another great opportunity for us to celebrate in Syosset/Woodbury -- shop local and visit our restaurants!” Urso announced.

Attendees of the 2019 Holiday Spectacular can enjoy free refreshments from 3:30 to 4:00 p.m., including fresh pizza slices from Mario’s (326 Jericho Turnpike) bagels from Bagel Master on Cold Spring Road, and -- new this year -- hot pretzels from the new Philly Pretzel Factory which opened recently at 331 Jackson Avenue in Syosset. Beverages will include complimentary hot chocolates and coffees.

This year the One River School of Art + Design (150 Woodbury Road) coordinated with the Chamber of Commerce to raffle off a free month of art classes during Sunday’s Spectacular and tree lighting for children 3 and older, all the way up to adult-level classes. For more information, call 516-268-3566 or visit online at woodbury.oneriverschool.com.

Urso says at 4:55 p.m. on December 8, performers will sing ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’ to signal what happens next. At 5:00 p.m. the Syosset Fire Department and the

See page 4

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A Thank You from Rotary

To the Editor:

The Syosset-Woodbury Rotary Club held its sixth annual Karaoke Night on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at the Holiday Inn in Plainview. The attendees enjoyed a tasty buffet, an evening of singing, a musical presentation by the Music Academy for Special Learners, and raffles and door prizes. Monies raised will be distributed to local charities and programs that support our community members-in-need.

We would like to thank the following community businesses for supporting our endeavor by donating gifts for our raffle: Trader Joe's of Plainview, Post Liquors, Butera's Restaurant, Iavaronne Brothers, CVS of Syosset, Lisbon Cafe, Fox Hollow Inn, Bella Notte Restaurant, Bagel Boss, Cultural Arts Playhouse, Body and Brain, Katie & Co. Salon, Excel at Woodbury, Cafe Testarossa, and Craig Drucker Chiropratric.

Santa's mailboxes arrive in town offices

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that children can send their ‘holiday wish list’ directly to Old St. Nick at the North Pole through a special network of Santa’s Mailboxes which arrived in Town facilities from the North Pole.  Mailboxes will accept letters now through Monday, December 16.

The Town of Oyster Bay will forward letters to Santa at the North Pole.  Letters received by Monday, December 16 with a legible name and return address will be answered by Santa before the holiday.  No postage is necessary.

Colorful red mailboxes will be accessible daily during regular business hours at the following locations:

• Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay

• Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa

• Hicksville Athletic Center, 167 S. Broadway, Hicksville

Robert Schultz, ED.D. Syosset-Woodbury Rotary, Director Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.

• Ice Skating Center, 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage

For more information about Santa’s Mailboxes, please call (516) 624-6380 weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. or visit the www.oysterbaytown.com.

Toys for Tots collection underway

The Town of Oyster Bay is currently holding this year’s “Toys for Tots” Collection Drive, which will run through December 12, in an effort to collect new, unwrapped toys to be used as gifts for children throughout the community.

“Under the direction of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, the Toys for Tots Drive follows a mission to help ensure that disadvantaged children within our community do not have to go the holiday season without something to bring them happiness,” Town Councilman Thomwas Hand said.

“By helping those in need experience the wonderful embrace of the holiday season, contributor’s will get to play an active role in bringing happiness to one of our nation’s most valuable resources for the future, our children,” Town

Councilman Anthony Macagnone said.

For those who wish to donate to “Toys for Tots”, collection boxes can be found in the following Town facilities:

• Oyster Bay Town Hall North (54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay);

• Town Hall South (977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa);

• Department of Public Works Facility (150 Miller Place, Syosset);

• The Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center (at Bethpage Community Park - 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage);

• Syosset-Woodbury Community Park Community Center (Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury).

For more information, please contact the Councilmembers, co-chairs of the Collection Drive, at (516) 624-6619 or (516) 624-6305; or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

This Week at the Syosset P ublic Library

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

Let’s Chat

Presenter: Beth Matlin, MSW

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

Friday, December 6 at 2 p.m.

The Dick Van Dyke Show

Presenter: Sal St. George, playwright and pop culture historian

Carl Reiner discovered comic gold when he spotted Dick Van Dyke on Broadway in “ Bye Bye Birdie. ” Reiner soon created “ The Dick Van Dyke Show ” for the versatile actor,

singer, dancer and comedian. He based the program on “ Your Show of Shows, ” masterfully blending the hilarious office and home lives of Rob Petrie (Van Dyke), the lead character. The series also introduced Mary Tyler Moore, Morey Amsterdam and Rose Marie. Learn the backstory of the award winning “ Dick Van Dyke Show ” and learn about its Long Island connections. Clips will be shown.

Free. No registration required.

Thursday, December 12

from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Seniors of Syosset Drop in Session Presenter: Seniors of Syosset

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

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

Free. No registration required.

Thursday, December 12 at 2 p.m.

Mary Lincoln: Tragic First Lady Presenter: Harvey Sackowitz & Howard Ehrlich, professors, St. John's University Revisit the tragic story of our 16th President ’ s wife, Mary Lincoln, as she

suffered the loss of several children, endured the murder of her husband, and subsequent battles with mental illness.

6,

Free. No registration required.

Friday, December 13 at 2 p.m.

From Mary Pickford to Meryl Streep: Hollywood Star System and How it Works

Presenter: Brian Rose, professor of communications, Fordham University

The history of movie stardom— how film actors weren’t even originally identified by name, how Mary Pickford became America’s sweetheart and the first film star, how the Hollywood studios manufactured stars like Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, and Lana Turner, how the star system changed with television, and how actors like Jack Nicholson, Meryl Streep, and Leonardo DiCaprio ushered in a new definition of stardom during the last few decades.

Free. No registration required.

Programs will take place at the Syosset Public Library.   225 South Oyster Bay Rd. Syosset.

For more information, go to www. syossetlibrary.org

Chamber gears up for Holiday Spectacular in Syosset downtown

From page 1

Hook & Ladder squad have coordinated with Urso, as they have done for many years, to have Santa Claus himself in the bucket of the big red ladder truck. Look for the truck to stroll down Jackson Avenue at the appointed time, with sirens, “bells and whistles” bringing Santa to Syosset.

Chamber volunteer Amanda Johnson of Balloons by Amanda will have a special “balloon-covered outfit” on display at Sunday’s marquee event. The grand finale of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber’s December 8 Holiday Spectacular is lighting the Syosset tree in front of Sterling Bank -- as Urso says there will be about 2,000 lights adorning the tree this year. The tree will be lit with the audience, performers, and Santa on hand.

Chamber Networking

As for another local ‘holiday tradition’ with Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce members getting together for an after-work hours networking reception, hors d'oeuvres, wine and beverages, the Chamber heard the invite from its former president, BNB Bank vice president and branch manager in Woodbury (8191 Jericho Turnpike) Chanbir Kaur.

BNB Bank (formerly known as Bridgehampton National Bank) will host a holiday party extravaganza for Chamber merchants and local professionals on Thursday, December 12 starting at 5 p.m. Parking will be available for attendees at BNB as well as in the Bank of America parking lot on the north side of Jericho Turnpike, east of Woodbury Road.

“This is the month that we come together and celebrate. I actually invite banking clients who aren’t Chamber members to our holiday event too, and that helps as a way of making them new members or to promote and do business together. We start at 5 p.m. on the 12th and we will continue networking and conversations until 6:30 so please be on time and join us there. Bring a guest and

let’s have fun!” Kaur said.

Giving the Gift of Wine

Along with many appetizers set up at Excel, attendees of the November 21 Chamber general meeting were able to try exquisite red and white wine samples and meet Radhika Khanna, owner of Woodbury Wine Cellar (7973 Jericho Turnpike) to the right of Starbucks in the Woodbury Village plaza, alongside Scout & Molly’s Boutique and MoCA Asian fusion, around the corner from Naot Footwear and Ben’s Deli. Woodbury Wine Cellar joined the Chamber of Commerce three months ago, and Khanna said participating with the Chamber will promote her store and reach new customers.

“We carry small producers’ specialties and smaller, boutique-y wines -we do not support those larger brand names. If there is anything we can help you with during this season with holiday gifts, wine and pairing baskets for friends and family, please let us know!” Khanna said.

Heart and Lung Health Education

On November 21 an audience of 50 local business people heard from Carolyn Palladino, the Chamber of Commerce’s Membership Committee co-chair serving alongside Alan Goldberg (president of Water Solutions of Long Island. For Excel at Woodbury for Rehabilitation and Nursing, Palladino is community liaison for the 128bed Excel facility, a short-term facility, and she introduced key members of the Excel staff to the business chamber and greater community.

Cardio-pulmonary program director of Excel Ken Shah spoke about the rehabilitation work he oversees at Excel’s Nassau County locations. He says a goal of his program at Excel is educating patients about heart and lung conditioning during their rehab stays so this prepares them for returning to active lifestyles. He says “that preparation gets them better and keeps them living at home, rather than sending them back to hospitals or to minimize hospitalization

or a sub-acute rehab stay.”

“With the cardio-pulmonary program any patient that has a chronic or acute heart or lung condition gets enrolled at Excel in our complimentary program. As part of this they receive physical and occupational therapies but also we have group classes for cardio-pulmonary patients, Mondays through Thursdays. We do chair yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates classes and meditation. This improves their own heart and lung conditions so that they become able to perform better within active daily living. In our program we work with a pulmonologist affiliated with Syosset and Plainview (Northwell Health) Hospitals and he is in the building at least four times a week, monitoring those patients,” Shah said.

Chamber Continues to Grow:

Chamber director and Membership co-chair Alan Goldberg said the Chamber now has grown to include 160 members, “kinda good” as the numbers have ticked up quite consistently.

“We have done some great things and our initiatives, such as the annual Street Fair, have drawn many. Almost 7,000 people attended Street Fair and 130 vendors and sponsors participated. Membership continues to grow,” he said. Goldberg noted that current Chamber members will receive notice to renew their memberships for 2020 in early December.

“Membership is $150 and it gets you access to anything you want for the year -- attending general meetings and networking socials, invitations to our grand openings and ribbon cuttings -there’s always a lot going on. One of the things for us to do in early February will be an annual networking reception at Hurricane Grill & Wings (at 275 Jericho Turnpike in Syosset),” he said.

The February member event was later positioned for Monday evening, February 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Hurricane Grill & Wings, and deemed “It’s a Wing Thing -- ‘Paid Up’ Chamber membership Happy Hour.” All 2020

members are free, but memberships can be renewed or purchased at the door also on February 10. Non-members can contribute $20 per person to attend.

Since the October 17 Chamber general monthly meeting, eight new members joined the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce. Alan Goldberg also provided a “mark your calendars” date for 2020: the next Chamber of Commerce ‘Syosset Street Fair’ for Jackson Avenue will take place on Sunday, October 4, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Believe it or not, we have got a lot of stuff going on already and we’re already planning and organizing the 2020 Street Fair. We have contacted potential entertainment, and we can add to a lot of the popular stuff from 2019 but continue to make it bigger and better -- hopefully we see a lot of our Chamber as sponsors and new members and area businesses can sponsor us as well for the coming Street Fair,” he said.

Incoming Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce President (beginning in the role on January 1, 2020) Maureen Nickel announced the new vice president; Danielle K. Delgrosso, assistant vice president at Roslyn Savings Bank, a division of New York Community Bank located in Woodbury. The Chamber board’s new secretary for 2020 will be former Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Chris Coschignano partner in local law firm Sahn Ward Coschignano, PLLC. A founding member of the Syosset Woodbury Chamber, insurance broker William Chabina (William J. Chabina Co., Inc.) will be the new Chamber treasurer.

“Our leader and president Charo Ezdrin will be stepping down effective December 31, as that date marks the end of her term, and I am honored to say I will be the next Chamber president. Thank you Frank Urso for organizing the Holiday Spectacular and the Chamber cannot stress enough that this is a welcoming, all-inclusive and wonderful event for our community in the heart of Syosset,” said Nickel.

Imagine having the luxury lifestyle you deserve without the concerns of living alone or maintaining a home. At The Bristal, we are committed to helping seniors stay independent while knowing that expert care is there if needed – delivered by a team who treat you like family. Every day you’ll enjoy a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and the unmatched services and amenities you’ve come to expect from The Bristal.

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TOB recognizes League of Women's Voters on anniversary Town Summer Recreation full day program

Supervisor Saladino and the Town Board commended the representatives from League of Women Voters of East Nassau (from left to right) Mimi Hirsch of Plainview, Dr. Anne Bailey Watters of Oyster Bay, Judy Sonfield of Cove Neck, and Barbara Josepher of Syosset for their tireless advocacy work, and congratulated them on this amazing milestone.

The Town of Oyster Bay recently recognized representatives from the League of Women’s Voters of East Nassau for the centennial year of the League of Women Voters of New York State.

The 19th Amendment to the Constitution giving American women the right to vote was officially passed on August 26, 1920. As a result of this, the League of Women Voters was formed to help women take a larger role in public affairs after they won the right to vote

Seneca Falls is considered the birthplace of the women’s right movement, and some of its greatest leaders from Susan B. Anthony to Matilda Joslyn Gage and Elizabeth Cady Stanton did their pioneering work in the Empire State. This incredible organization is celebrating several important milestones in this it’s centennial year, and are continuing the proud legacy of the women of New York playing an important role in societal change.

The Town of Oyster Bay will be offering a new full day offering for the Town of Oyster Bay Summer Recreation Program for the 2020 summer season.  What does this mean exactly?  The Summer Recreation program will be offering an extended stay through the lunch hour at two of its locations:  Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa and Syosset-Woodbury Community Park in Woodbury.  The full day hours will operate from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.  Previously, parents were required to pick up children at lunchtime.

“The Town Board and I are happy to offer this additional convenience to families,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino.  “Details for the expanded program are still being

worked out, but it’s important to relay this information now as families begin to make their summer arrangements.  Please stay tuned for more information coming your way this winter.”

The Town’s Summer Recreation program is separated into the following age categories: early childhood (Ages 4,5 and 6); juniors (7-8); intermediate (9-10); and seniors (11-12) and offers a full day of enriching and healthy activities for the Town’s young people.

For more information about the Town of Oyster Bay Summer Recreation Program, please contact Jackie Devlin at (516) 797-4125, extension 1 or e-mail jdevlin@oysterbay-ny.gov. Information is also available at www.oysterbaytown. com/parks.

Gift wrapping for charity

The Glen Cove-Hicksville-Syosset Chapter of the Mercy League will be holding its annual Christmas holiday gift wrapping program.

From Thursday, December 12 to Tuesday, December 24 bring your gifts to Broadway Commons Mall to have them expertly wrapped by Mercy League volunteers. Proceeds of the wrapping service will support enrichment activities and equipment at Mercy

Medical Center.

The service will be available from  10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Christmas Eve til 4 p.m.). Prices will range from $2 to $5 depending on size of package and options chosen. Oversized packages will be priced accordingly. A large selection of gift wrap, decorative bags, ribbons and bows will be available.

For more information, please contact Pat at 681-6690 or Anna at 390-0200.

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. Save 70%

From thought-provoking editorials and current events coverage to restaurant reviews, puzzles and more, we deliver the quality reporting that keeps you informed and the playful features that keep you entertained. off the cover price

www.gcnews.com or 294-8900 to order Don't miss out! Get the scoop on what’s happening in your community every week.

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Movies, book discussions at the Jericho Public Library

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

Movie: “The Great Buster” (Documentary/Biography)

This film celebrates the life and career of one of America’s most influential and celebrated filmmakers and comedians, Buster Keaton. Starring Buster Keaton, Peter Bogdanovich, Mel Brooks. Not rated. 1 hour, 42 minutes.

Tuesday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m.

Talk About Books: An Evening Book Discussion with Fran Cohen “A Place for Us” by Fatima Farheen Mirza

A poignant, rich layered, deeply moving, resonant story of love, identity and belonging. We explore the intricacies of a family straddling two different cultures. An Evening Book Discussion. Listeners are welcome! Refreshments will be available.

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

Movie: “The Best of Enemies”

(Biography/Drama/History)

Civil Rights activist Ann Atwater faces off against C.P. Ellis, Exalted Cyclops of the Ku Klux Klan, in 1971 Durham, N.C. over the issue of school integration. Starring Taraji P. Henson, Sam Rockwell, Babou Ceesay.

Rated PG-13. 2 hours, 13 minutes.

Thursday, December 19 at 2:00 & 7:00 p.m.

Movie: “The Chaperone” (Drama)

In the early 1920s, a Kansas woman finds her life forever changed when she accompanies a young dancer on her fame seeking journey to New York City. Starring Elizabeth Mcgovern, Haley Lu Richardson, Geza Rohrig, Blythe Danner. Not Rated. 1 hour, 43 minutes.

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

Are you a professional?

Our Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

George Frideric Handel

Beloved Long Island Tradition!

THE ORCHESTRA AT SHELTER ROCK

Stephen Michael Smith, Conductor

THE UUCSR CHOIR with Professional Soloists

Meagan Brus, soprano Michael St. Peter, tenor Blythe Gaissert-Levitt, mezzo Brace Negron, bass baritone

Sunday, December 8, 2019 1:30 pm

$8 / Under 18 Free

Come sing along, or just listen

Musical scores provided at no charge

Ample, free parking | Fully handicapped accessible

Unitarian Universalist

Congregation at Shelter Rock

Kind.

Favorite Places to Go Where the Holiday Spirit Glows Brightest

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE

GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

The best thing about Christmas is that the festivities that brighten and warm all the days of the holiday season go on from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. And the best part is you don’t have to wait for Christmas week – the holiday spirit happen happens throughout December.

Christmas in the Capital

Here are some of the best, can’tmiss ways to experience the holidays in Washington DC::

The National Christmas Tree, one of DC’s iconic holiday traditions, lives in President’s Park on the White House Ellipse, surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 56 U.S. states and territories. Each night throughout the holiday season there are musical performances. The display is free to visit and open from 10 am – 10 pm while the National Christmas Tree is lit each day from 4:30-10 pm, from Dec. 5, when the lighting ceremony takes place.

Visit the Smithsonian National Zoo during ZooLights,

Favorite Places to Go Where the Holiday Spirit Glows Brightest

Continued from page D1

when the zoo is illuminated with more than 500,000 environmentally-friendly LEDs,  animated light installations, live music and various animals on display. ZooLights runs Nov. 29 – Jan. 1 (closed Dec. 24, 25 & 31).

Enchant Christmas is a light maze, billed as the biggest in the world, that is in DC for the first time at Nationals Park from Nov. 22 – Dec. 29. Throughout the holiday season there are ice skating trails and a large holiday market offering products from more than 60 vendors, including local businesses and international brands. (Use promo code “VISITDC” to get 10% off when you buy tickets.)

Downtown Holiday Marke t: Located at 8th and F Streets NW, the market holds down the area in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. At night, its bright lights bring Penn Quarter to life, providing a holiday spark to the neighborhood, but you can shop during the day too. (Open daily 12-8 pm, Nov. 22 – Dec. 23).

Georgetown GLOW exhibition of light-art, a stroll through DC’s most historic neighborhood  has proven to be such a hit that it’s now a monthlong celebration (Dec. 6 – Jan. 5, 5-10 pm). Afterwards, wander through a winter wonderland at The Washington Harbour, one of the district’s favor-

ite places to ice skate.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon : A  George Washingtoninspired Christmas  awaits at the Founding Father’s Mount Vernon estate, Nov. 29 – Dec. 31. Walk through Washington’s home and visit Aladdin the camel, which pays homage to Washington’s 1787 Christmas in which he paid 18 shillings to entertain guests with a camel. See  Mount Vernon by candlelight (Nov. 29 & 30, Dec. 6-7, 13-14 and 22) between 5-8 p.m., when you can enjoy a character-guided tour, 18th century dancing and fireside caroling.

The  U.S. Botanic Garden  gets decked out for this annual exhibit. This year’s display focuses on gardens from Hawaii to Maine, including iconic spots like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Franklin Park Conservatory and Huntsville Botanical Garden. Inside the Conservatory are the garden’s collection of DC’s iconic landmarks and a showcase of poinsettias.  Season’s Greenings is open from Nov. 28 – Jan. 5 (10 am – 5 pm), and stays open until 8 pm, with holiday concerts on select Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

A magnificent tree decks the Great Hall of the  Library of Congress’ Thomas Jefferson Building each December, visited from the First Street SE entrance between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm (the Jefferson Building is closed Sundays and on Christmas). (Check the guide to visiting the largest library in the world so you can properly explore.)

Visit National Harbor, a shopping, dining and amusement park-like landmark located just 20 minutes south of DC (reached by public transportation). Step inside the Gaylord National Resort for ICE! (Nov. 15 – Dec. 30), an indoor winter wonderland featuring two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, ice slides, a live carving area and a retelling of Dr. Seuss›  How the Grinch Stole Christmas. While at National Harbor, view the tree from atop the Capital Wheel, shop for gifts at the Tanger Outlets and experience weekend events like holiday markets, performances and movie screenings.

Beautiful lights, seasonal food and holiday-themed attractions and characters make up this annual Christmas event at Six Flags America, on weekends and select days from Nov. 23 – Jan. 1.

Located in the Brookland neighborhood, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the largest Roman Catholic church in North America, dresses up with more than 50 Christmas trees, over 65,000 lights, halls decked with 500-plus poinsettias and two manger scenes. (Free and open to the public daily from 7 am – 6 pm)

Visit https://washington.org for more details and ideas.

15th Annual Vintage

Christmas in Portsmouth, NH

Now in its 15th year, Vintage Christmas, taking place throughout

December, transforms Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which  National Geographic/Travel  described as “possibly the greatest small town in the USA,” into a picture-postcard winter wonderland.

Those who visit Portsmouth during the holiday season discover an intimate streetscape framed by 19th century storefronts, boutiques and sidewalk cafes. The city’s reputation as a “foodies’” haven is upheld by chef-owned restaurants on more than every corner. The thriving craft beer and local music scene banish all suggestions of “staid New England” without losing the charm. And sales tax-free shopping offers delights for every age and taste.

For 2019 Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth includes:

The Music Hall, a historic theater dating from 1878 on Chestnut Street, presents “Annie” from November 27 to December 22, with Sally Struthers reprising her Broadway tour reprisal of Miss Hannigan. Juston McKinney: Last Laugh 2019 on Dec. 27, 28 & 29, looks back at “the year that was” with one of the region’s most “popular stand-up comics. New Year’s Eve Champagne Pops with the Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra on Dec. 31.

Strawbery Banke Museum: 40th Annual Candlelight Stroll on December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22, showcases 300+ years of daily life and holiday festivities around the theme “A Tradition for Every Family” in the historic waterfront neighborhood and living history museum of Puddle Dock. Saturdays 5-9 pm. Sundays 4-8 pm. Adult $25; child (5-17) $10, Family (2 adults/2 kids) $60. Children under 5 and Military families, free.

Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond, Strawbery Banke’s seasonal outdoor ice skating rink, open daily 9 am to 9 pm, also hosts costumed Victorian skaters evoking Currier & Ives during each of the December evenings of Candlelight Stroll.

Vintage Christmas Trolley . This free trolley, courtesy of the City of Portsmouth, shuttles visitors on a 15-minute loop throughout the festively decorated downtown, from hotels and parking garages to the key events and shopping areas on weekends, December 7-22, 1:30-10:30 pm.

For more information, visit VintageChristmasNH.org; Discover Portsmouth, PortsmouthHistory.org, 603-436-8433.

Christmas in Newport, RI Newport, Rhode Island, the Gilded Age’s favorite summer resort, is always

enchanting, but never more so than at the winter holidays, when, it seems, the entire town is one big festival. A sampling of “Christmas in Newport” (now in its 49th year) and winter festivities include:

Holiday Lantern Tours : Hear the history of early American holiday traditions on an evening walk and learn how Newporters did, or did not, observe the holidays. Tours depart from the Museum of Newport History and Shop (Nov. 22 – Dec. 28, Fridays and Saturdays at 4 p.m.)

Christmas at the Newport Mansions: The glitter of gold and the sparkle of silver dazzle as you tour three magnificent mansions decked out in yuletide finery. Music, tours and spectacular decorations highlight celebrations at The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House – each of which will have Gingerbread Mansion replicas on display. Special events include “Holiday Evenings at the Newport Mansions” and “Santa Sundays.” (Nov. 23 – Jan. 1)

Christmas at Blithewold: Enjoy elaborate holiday decorations around every corner of this historic early 19th century estate in Bristol. (Nov. 29 – Jan. 1)

Holiday Market at Gurney’s : Features a curated selection of travel, lifestyle and fashion finds. (Nov. 29 –Dec. 20, Friday – Sunday).

Dickens Holiday Dinner

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Train : Immerse yourself in the classic tale of humbuggery, ghosts and redemption with this interactive retelling of “A Christmas Carol” by the Marley Bridges Theatre Company. Experience a dining journey along the Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad in a custom-designed theater car featuring special tables for two all

facing center stage. (Nov. 30 – Dec. 21, Saturdays)

A Rough Point Holiday: Experience the holiday traditions and winter caretaking practices at Doris Duke’s Rough Point with various rooms of the mansion museum both spruced up for the Christmas holiday and cloaked in their winter coverings. 30-minute guided

WRITER’S CORNER

tours offered throughout the day. (Dec. 7 – 28, Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m) 48th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historical Private Homes: Experience the rare opportunity to tour private homes of note in Newport. (No children 10 or under and no high heels. Dec. 28)  See page D5

As I see it: On the Hofstra basketball season

BY LOU THEODORE

Here is part of what I wrote last year at the start of the Hofstra Men’s 2018-19 basketball season. “The 10/28 Newsday headlines blared away “Hofstra Targets NCAA: Wright-Foreman key to making March Madness.” Here is what appeared this year in the 11/2/19 Newsday headlines, “Hunger Pains: Pemberton, Pride Wants to Earn Spot in NCAA Tourney!” Now I ask you: What team doesn’t want to make the Tourney? In any event, the problems that existed last year still remain. What problems remain? The same four I raised earlier, as detailed below.

1. How many teams that made the Sweet 16 play zone defense? If you answered hardly any, you’d be right. And, there is a reason why the better teams do NOT play zone defense. Accept it – nothing can replace the intensity of an in-your-face man-to-man defense. NOTHING!!!

2. I keep repeating this after each season. You are inviting trouble when you commit to a 7-man rotation, with 5 players rotating around 4 positions. A successful team needs season-tested players not only when players are in foul trouble but also at tournament time when confronting either a 3-game/3-day

or 4-game/4-day schedule. Hopefully, this will not occur again this season.

3. Coach Mikalich and his staff have done a superb job in recruiting – when it comes to offensive players. But, defense is as important as offense, right? Anything been done about it? Time will tell.

4. The object every season for any club in a mid-major conference is to win their tournament, NOT their conference. How does a team do this? I discuss this very topic in the upcoming 2nd edition of my “Basketball Coaching 101” book . . . or, simply talk to Coach Timmy Cluess of Iona.

On to this year. Buie, Pemberton, Ray and Coburn are back. So is Truehart, although currently sidelined. The new additions include guard Silverio (Omar) and center Kante (Isaac). The starting five appear (at this time) to be guards Buie, Pemberton, Ray, and Coburn with Kante at center. Subs appear to be the aforementioned Silverio, Shutte (Ken) and (perhaps) freshman Burgess (Caleb). This year’s analysis? I love Coburn as a player – he was my type of player when I was coaching. But, Buie is the key. It will be his defense that will hopefully carry the team to the CAA Championship AND an invitation to the Big Dance. This will really be an

exciting year if this comes to pass. And, they have a reasonable shot to make it happen.

Here’s more: the club is off to a decent start. So far, so good. The team’s record at the time of the preparation of this article (12/1) is 4-3 that includes an embarrassing loss to San Jose St. and a dramatic come from behind 20-point victory against UCLA.

Here is my usual pitch on why everyone, particularly seniors, should consider attending Hofstra games this season. Attending these games for me still remains the best sports buy in the New York Metropolitan area; it’s even cheaper than going to the movies. There is ample free parking, easy access in and out of the Mack Sports Complex, the concession stands are not a rip-off ($3.50 for a dog, $3.00 for a soda, etc.), and there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Did I mention that its $6 for seniors and children, and the whole exciting atmosphere is conducive to family attendance? Many home games last year turned out to be thrillers. Share it this year with someone you care about.

GO PRIDE!

Note: The TheodoreNewsletter will begin a new feature starting this month (see below). The new feature will pro-

vide either three offensive or three defensive basketball suggestions that will appear in the upcoming 2nd edition of Basketball Coaching 101, and replace the weekly basketball suggestions that have appeared on Facebook’s “Basketball Coaching 101.”

This month’s Basketball Coaching 101 offensive hints:

1. Run back at near full speed after a turn of possession (or turnover) to play defense.

2. Never play zone defense. There are some exceptions, detailed in (3).

3. Consider playing zone defense only if one of your star offensive players is a weak defender or if one of your star offensive players is in foul trouble or if you intend to use only 5, 6 or 7 players, i.e., the person (substitute) players are weak. Massimino used this strategy during Villanova’s championship run in 1985.

You want more? Tough. You’ll have to wait until next month for 3 offensive suggestions.

Visit the author at: www. theodorenewsletter.com or Basketball Coaching 101 (Facebook)

Christmas in Newport: The Breakers decked out for the holidays.

Women Who Say They Are Not Getting Enough From Social Security

BY TOM MARGENAU

Just out of curiosity, I wanted to find out what the most common questions readers have been asking lately were. I was pretty sure I knew, and a quick check of my emails from the past month verified what I thought. By far, the most questions came from women who think they should be getting higher benefits on a husband’s account. Here are some examples.

Q: I am 86. I took my Social Security at age 62. I get $1,230 per month. My husband is 95. He waited until he was 70 to start his Social Security. He gets $3,020. I know a wife gets half of her husband’s benefits. Half of his is $1,510. So, by my calculations, I should be getting $280 in spousal benefits to take me up to that $1,510 level. We went to our Social Security office, and they told us he has to be dead before I can get any of this Social Security. You said in your columns that a wife gets half. So how do I let the Social Security people know they are wrong?

A: They are not wrong. And in my column, I’ve said maybe a thousand times over the years that a wife gets half of her husband’s Social Security IF she waits until her full retirement age to claim benefits. You didn’t do that. You took reduced retirement benefits at 62 and a similar reduction carries over to any wife’s benefits you might be due on your husband’s account. At 62, the spousal rate is about 35%.

And it’s not 35% of your husband’s age-70 rate; it’s 35% of his age-65 rate (65 was his full retirement age). I’m guessing that rate is about $2,300 per month. And 35% of that is about $805. Your own $1,230 benefit is way more than that. So you aren’t due anything on your husband’s account.

You aren’t due anything now. But when he dies, you will get widows benefits. A widow over full retirement age gets 100% of whatever the husband was getting at the time of death, including any extra benefits he got for waiting until age 70 to start his Social Security. So, when your husband dies, you will keep getting your $1,230 retirement check, and you will get an extra $1,790 to take your total benefits up to his current $3,020 rate.

Readers should note the ages of the people who sent me this first question. I am constantly amazed by the number of emails I get from very old readers, people who have been getting benefits for decades, who still question the amount of benefits they are getting. I often wonder: Have they been stewing over this perceived injustice for all these years? Or did something they read just recently prompt them to write to me? Well, this next question shows there are some people in the first category.

Q: I am 82 years old. I’ve been upset about this for almost 20 years now. I took my own Social Security at 62. I was getting about $800 per month. Then, when I turned 65, they switched me to widows benefits on my deceased husband’s record. I started getting about $1,400. (Of course, over the years, that has grown as the cost of living increases. I now get about $1,900.) But here is what has always bothered me. What happened to my own benefits? I worked hard all my life. And, poof!. That money just went away when they switched me to a widows check!

A: Well, I hope this makes you feel a little better. Your own benefits didn’t go “poof!” What actually happened back when you turned 65 is that they kept paying you your own $800 benefit, and they started giving you an extra $600 in widows benefits to take you up to your husband’s $1,400 level. And both benefits kept growing over the years. You said you are getting $1,900 now. I’m guessing about $1,200 of that is your own retirement money and the remainder is your widows benefit.

And here is a recent email in a similar vein. This is from a widow who understands how the combined payments work, but she’s still upset.

Q: I am 68. Before my 71-year-old husband died recently, I was getting $2,328 per month, and he was getting $2,649. After he died, I started getting $2,649 in widows benefits. The Social Security people told me this is actually my $2,328 check and $321 on his record. But come on! Get real! This is all just bookkeeping malarkey. In other words, if I never worked a day in my life, I still would be getting that $2,649 widows check. So I’m really not getting my own Social Security. I’m just getting a widows check. And my money is gone! I think if the system really was fair, I should get both my own $2,328 retirement check and $2,649 in widows benefits.

A: I understand where you are coming from. But let me make a couple of points. First of all, whether you believe it or not, $2,328 of your current $2649 benefit really is coming off of your own Social Security account. At least, that’s the way it is set up on the Social Security Administration books. It’s not “malarkey.” It’s really happening.

Still, I know this doesn’t appease you because the bottom line is that you are still getting a total benefit of $2,649 (your husband’s rate), and it just feels like a widows benefit to you.

Secondly, I must address your idea that you should be getting both benefits -- your own full retirement check and a full widows benefit -- at the same time. At first glance, this maybe seems fair, and a lot of people might agree with you.

But think of it this way: If you can get two full benefits, then any married person should be able to get two benefits. For example, if Warren Buffett’s wife died, should he get his own Social Security check and a widowers check on his wife’s account? Or, take my neighbor. He’s a retired executive with a fairly substantial Social Security check. If his wife dies, should he be able to get a widowers benefit on top of his already maximum retirement check?

I could get into a long discussion

about the financial dependency clause that is the root of eligibility for spousal benefits from Social Security. But I hope you see my point. If the system had been paying all of these extra spousal benefits over the years -- essentially double benefits to everyone -- it would have gone belly up a long time ago.

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

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

6 Things You Should Never Plug Into a Power Strip

BY MARY HUNT

Whether you live in a house, apartment, condo, mobile home or dorm room, having enough electrical outlets to handle all of the accessories, appliances and tools you need can be a challenge. And that’s when knowing how to safely use a power strip sure comes in handy.

While one of these devices can offer a reasonable solution for too few outlets, it’s a mistake to rely on power strips too much. Or to use them incorrectly. For safety’s sake, never plug these items into a power strip.

HAIRDRESSING APPLIANCES

You need ‘em hot and ready to go, which makes a power strip on the bathroom counter pretty much a godsend when you have only one outlet. Here’s the problem with that: Hairdryers, curling wands and flat irons are required to produce heat, which means they pull large amounts of amperage to get them good and hot. Plugging them into a power strip is just asking for trouble. These types of hairdressing appliances must be plugged directly into a wall outlet -preferably one with a ground-fault circuit interrupter breaker to avoid danger should those tools accidentally be exposed to water.

REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER

These appliances pull too much current for a power strip because they are continuously cycling on and off. That will quickly overload a power strip. These items need to be plugged directly into a wall outlet dedicated solely to that appliance. If you plug other appliances into that same outlet, provided it’s a duplex, you run the risk of tripping a breaker.

COFFEE MAKER

It seems pretty lightweight to heat up water, right? Not so fast. Most coffee makers need a good deal of amperage to turn gloriously roasted coffee beans into a hot beverage -- more than a power strip can guarantee to deliver. Make sure you plug the machine directly into a wall outlet.

TOASTER

Here’s the clue: It has exposed wires inside those slots that heat up to become red-hot. It takes a lot of current to fire up those wires, which can easily overload a power strip. So, no, do not plug your toaster into an extension cord or power strip. Ditto for your toaster oven.

SLOW COOKER

I agree this is counterintuitive;

wouldn’t you think a slow cooker uses microscopic bits of power? In this case, it’s not the amount of amperage but the length of time requiring continuous power. A power strip cannot guarantee to deliver that kind of energy. Plug the slow cooker safely into a wall outlet before you set it and forget it.

ANOTHER POWER STRIP

Power strips do not play well together. While it might seem smart to plug one power strip into another as a way of multiplying the number of outlets available, it’s really dumb -- super dangerous and violates every fire safety code out there.

QUICK CHECKLIST OF DO’S AND DON’TS

Power strips are fine in moderation as long as you observe proper power strip safety. The folks at Kolb Electric offer us this handy do’s and don’ts checklist so we can know when and how to use a power strip safely:

“Do. Only use light-load appliances on power strips. This can include computers, lamps, clocks, etc.

“Do. Ensure that you purchase power strips with an internal circuit breaker. This is a very important safe-

ty measure that is designed to prevent property loss and risks of fire!

“Do. Use power strips sparingly. They aren’t designed to maintain a load for extended periods of time, and can overheat quickly if used too frequently.

“Don’t. Ever plug a power strip into another power strip (colloquially referred to as ‘daisy chaining’). Doing this is a great way to short out appliances, or drastically increase the risk of an electrical mishap.

“Don’t. Use power strips in moist or potentially moist areas. No kitchens, no utility rooms, and definitely no basements.

“Don’t. Continue to use a power strip if it feels hot. That isn’t supposed to happen!

“Never. Cover, staple, tack or nail a power strip to anything. Covering can smother the strip, and provide ample flammable material in the event of failure, and stapling can harm the cords, making room for dangerous situations.”

Mary Hunt is the founder of DebtProof Living, a personal finance member website and the author of the book DebtProof Living, Revell 2014.

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

Favorite Places to Go Where the Holiday Spirit Glows Brightest

C ontinued from page D3

Festive Igloo Pop-Ups at Gurney’s Newport Resort: Features heated multi-sensory igloos overlooking Narragansett Bay, each with its own theme including Santa’s Workshop, Winter Wonderland, Cozy Log Cabin, Roaring 20s, Harry Potter, Tropical Summer, Northern Lights, Astrology and Après Ski, complete with activities and cocktail pairings. Proceeds will go to Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Rhode Island. (Nov. 22 – Feb. 29)

Gurney’s Newport Resort Skating Rink: Opens for the season with outdoor skating on the North Lawn overlooking the Newport Harbor Lighthouse, The Point and the Newport Bridge. Open seven days a week. (Nov. 26 – March 1)

Goat Hikes at Simmons Farm: Spend an afternoon on a two-hour hike led by Farmer Karla and her crew of adventurous, fun-loving goats. Each participant gets their own goat to walk on a leash. The afternoon finishes with hot chocolate made with the milk from the farm. (Nov. 24 – Jan. 1)

See more holiday and winter events in Newport and plan a visit att DiscoverNewport.org, 800-326-6030, 401849-8048.

Holidays

in the Brandywine Valley

Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley  is one of the most picturesque and historic places especially during the holiday season From Christmastime exhibits at  du Pont family estates  to the dancing fountains at Longwood Gardens. Here are highlights:

A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens,  is magical with 500,000 lights gracing 150 trees throughout the outdoor Gardens, a four-acre Conservatory with holiday sing-alongs accompanied by a 10,010 pipe Aeolian organ – the largest organ ever constructed in a residential setting. At the Open Air Theatre, fountains dance day and night to holiday classics. Delight in Longwood’s outdoor train display as it travels past miniature Longwood landmarks illuminated for the holiday season. In the Meadow Garden,

stroll through a 140-ft tunnel of light in the winter landscape, and discover a grove of glowing architectural orbs that pulse and change to the rhythm of holiday music. Grab a hot chocolate and cozy up to one of the many fire pits. A Longwood Christmas runs November 22, 2019– January 5, 2020 (including Christmas Day). Admission to the Christmas display is by Timed Admission Ticket, with tickets purchased in advance for a specific date and time. (Tickets and reservations at  longwoodgardens.org.)

Yuletide at Winterthur : From November 23 through January 5, you can experience one of the Brandywine Valley’s  most memorable attractions . Henry du Pont’s mansion is transformed into a magical holiday spectacle, with food, music, exhibits, an exquisite 18-room dollhouse mansion, and an Enchanted Woods children’s garden. Reservations are recommended for the Yuletide exhibits, and the last chance to see Winterthur’s Costuming THE CROWN (showcasing costumes from

Netflix’s Emmy winning series) before it closes on January 5.

Nemours Estate : Starting November 17, you can  experience holidays in traditional du Pont style as you tour the 1907 mansion  and gardens that Alfred du Pont built

See page D6

Favorite Places to Go Where the Holiday Spirit Glows Brightest

from page D5

for his wife Alicia. See original decorations (including a 19 th  century German crèche), twinkling lights, and bright colored ornaments.

Holidays at Hagley at  Hagley Museum  takes you back to 1803 as you visit the du Pont ancestral home Eleutherian Mills, decorated in vintage holiday charm. There’s also a “Christmas Trees Past and Present” exhibit.

Brandywine Christmas at the  Brandywine River Museum  of Art, renowned for its collection from three generations of Wyeth family artists, during the holiday season showcases the region’s most impressive model train display, which includes nearly 2,000 feet of track. Throughout the season, festive trees and crafts, live musical performances, and imaginative “Critter” ornaments made by local volunteers. There’s also a Polar Express Pajama Party, breakfast with the trains, and more special events. (www.brandywinemuseum.org)

Holiday Light Express :  throughout December you can take a 45-minute ride in 100-year old (heated!) coaches and experience thousands of holiday lights twinkling as you pass decorated homes along the route.

A Christmas Carol : Delaware Theater Company’s  adaptation of the Dickens classic has a twist: performed with just five actors bring Charles Dickens’ beloved characters to life using props, puppets, bold physicality and the imagination of the audience. Opening night is December 7, so make this a cultural must-see on your holiday road trip.

For more information, trip planning help and accommodations, visit www. visitwilmingtonde.com , 800-489-6664.

Visit Christmas City, USA: Bethlehem, PA

Experience the magic of the Christmas City: Bethlehem, in Lehigh Valley, PA boasts one of the top-ranked holiday markets in the world, now celebrating its 27th season.  Christkindlmarkt  (weekends, Nov. 22 – Dec. 22) offers visitors wares from 100 vendors, musical performances, and glass blowing demonstrations.

Along Main Street, browse the  Christmas Huts on Main (weekends, Nov. 22 – Dec. 22), a shopping experience inspired by a German Weihnachtsmarkt, complete with charming wooden huts lining the streets offering holiday gifts. Browse the  Moravian Book Shop, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the country.

Join Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites for a variety of tours including Christmas City Stroll, which takes you on a walking excursion through the city’s National Historic Landmark District. Led by a guide in period dress, this tour will give you a peek into what Moravian life was like in the 1700s.

To get a great view of the famous star atop South Mountain, get tickets for the Bethlehem by Night bus tour. On this tour, participants will learn why the north side of the city dons white lights and the SouthSide dresses up in colored lights. (Reserve in advance.)

One of the most distinctive holiday traditions is the Bethlehem’s Live Advent Calendar. Thought to be the only one of its kind in the country,

visitors can join locals in this activity nightly, Dec. 1 – 23, at 5:30 p.m. Crowds gather outside the  Goundie House at 501 Main Street. A selected visitor knocks on the door and the group is greeted by representatives from local businesses offering a surprise for all to enjoy. Nightly surprises could include musical performances, a story, or a tasty treat.

As you wander along Main Street, enjoy the music. Trombone choirs stroll the sidewalks playing holiday tunes, a nod to the city’s Moravian heritage.

For a special view of the city’s historic district, take a horse-drawn holiday carriage ride, hosted by the Bethlehem Carriage Company.

A free Christmas City Trolley is offered Fridays-Sundays, Nov. 15 – Dec. 22. The trolley runs every 20-30 minutes, shuttling between the Historic District and the SouthSide Arts District.

More information at discoverlehighvalley.com, info@DiscoverLehighValley. com Opens in New Window 610-882-9200, 800-MEET-HERE.

Victorian Christmas in Cape May

Share a special holiday tradition with friends and family on a festive tour of Victorian Cape May during Christmas Candlelight House Tours, presented by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Every year since 1974, a large selection of Victorian inns, homes, churches and hotels open their doors and welcome visitors to share the warmth and hospitality of the season during these popular, self-guided, walking tours. You will be welcomed inside with holiday hospitality and cheer. Enjoy Christmas carols by candlelight, strolling musi-

cians along the historic streets of Cape May and beautiful holiday decorations. Walk from site to site, stopping at hospitality centers for warm beverages and holiday treats during your travels. Free heated shuttles make limited stops along some routes. The three Christmas Candlelight House Tours of the 2019 holiday season are held on Saturdays, Dec. 7, 14 and 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (tickets should be purchased in advance). The festivities begin Friday, Nov. 22 and continue through Jan. 1, 2020.

For information about MAC’s yearround schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, call 609-884-5404 or 800275-4278, or visit MAC’s Web site at www. capemaymac.org. For information about restaurants, accommodations and shopping, call the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May at 609-884-5508 or visit www.capemaychamber.com. For information about historic accommodations, contact Cape May Historic Accommodations at www.capemaylodging.com

Next: More Favorite Holiday Places

© 2019 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com,  www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/ Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Christmas carolers at Longwood Gardens in the Brandywine Region © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

A Victorian Christmas awaits in Cape May, NJ. C ontinued

REAL ESTATE WATCH

Thinking about upgrading and renovating your home?

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

So now you have made a conscious decision not to move, but to stay in place. However, the look of your place is less than stellar and a bit worn and you have thoughts of renewing the look and feel of your home. The first thing you should contemplate and give serious thought to is what will your budget be? What will the total cost be, based on your budget and will you be able to do all that really needs to be done in adding to the value and creating an enjoyable environment, while still living there? Another thought would be determining how long you will be staying in your home, 1, 2,3 4, 5 years or more or will you be living there for the rest of your life?

So do you totally renovate and upgrade or just do basic replacements of appliances, boiler, hot water heater, reface your kitchen cabinets, re-glaze your bathtub; which can really look amazing without replacing it, but which is a messy job and while at the same time, do I replace the tiles on the walls? How are your floors, tiles and carpeting, still looking great or pretty dreary and old and out of fashion? Are your windows energy efficient and when was the last time you checked the condition of your roof?

My suggestion is to do it right or don’t do it at all! Homeowners should hire a referred and qualified and licensed architect to redesign the interior and possibly the exterior. Many times it will be more economical than upgrading to a larger home or if very lucky, finding one that is already renovated to your particular tastes and satisfying your specific “needs and wants.” Most of the time it is like finding a “needle in a haystack” searching out and finding a place that you and your family will

be completely happy and ecstatic with.

I have seen and sold some amazing homes that were in such gorgeous condition; but they just didn’t match and satisfy the needs and desires of the purchasers. Some like chocolate, some vanilla and some butter pecan and it surely does keep the economy chugging along. Ownership always creates buying opportunities when re-constructing one’s home as opposed to those that rent, that don’t spend any money on the landlord’s properties, and why should they?

That’s why ownership really provides most of the benefits and pays in the long run in building a family’s wealth!

As we grow older, one must make sure that your renovation and design includes an ergonomic concept which can and will make moving around easier. Keeping in mind to create an environment with the least amount of bending and reaching as possible and even your furniture and counter tops, cabinets and storage areas should be the most comfortable and easy on your body and posture. Always remember that gut renovating kitchens and bathrooms can be costly, but those two rooms are the most significant in your home for resale and will provide you years of benefits, enjoyment and satisfaction, while increasing the market value of your home.

Always keep in mind the local and even the county zoning laws when renovating, try not to cut corners; because in the end whatever is not compliant by the code, permits not filed, Certificate of Occupancies not granted

can and will come back to bite you in the pocketbook. I have experienced numerous situations whereby either the owner or the contractor failed to file for the necessary permits or never closed out the permits to receive the final Certificates of Occupancies (CO’s). Making sure that the F.A.R. (floor to area ratio) is adhered to will reduce the hassles in the long run when putting your home on the market for sale. I have seen numerous situations whereby things were constructed without following many code and zoning rules and regulations and it showed up on the title. The municipalities have been cracking down and fining homeowners and even commercial establishments for code violations for illegally installing a 2nd kitchen in the basement or building over the required property lines without leaving setbacks and proper side yards. This will cause a lot of stress later on when a purchaser has his or her title search done and then those illegal items smack you the owner in the pocketbook. You will then either hire an expediter or lawyer (who will generally hire an expediter) to file the necessary paperwork to legalize or finalize the CO’s or whatever was done without proper permits. This doesn’t guarantee that the local jurisdiction will always approve what was done previously. There are two, two family homes that I know of that cannot be occupied in western Queens that have no CO’s for the past 13 years and may never get them. The tremendous loss for the owner and possible lawsuits can be earth shattering just because the left hand didn’t know what the

right hand was doing and then it was too late. I have another incident that I am working on whereby getting the CO’s has been nothing but challenging, but we are almost done, but we are selling the home in as is condition. So once you have a budget the next most important thing is to make sure you follow and adhere to all the local zoning and building laws so you won’t end up losing money and sleep!

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.). 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 WWW.Li-REalEstate. Com as well as a “free” value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any “strings” attached. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality or Our Seller’s or Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling or Purchasing your Home. Just email or snail mail(regular mail) him with your request with your name, email and cell number and he will send it out ASAP. For a consultation, he can be reached by Cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate. Com to answer any of your questions or concerns.

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EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

ELDER CARE: AIDE/COMPANION with 25 years experience available to care for sick or elderly. Days, nights, weekends. Own car. Excellent references. Call 516-775-6171

ELDER CARE:

Mature woman available to take care of elderly person 3 days/week daytime hours or night time hours and sleep in. Light cooking. Local excellent references. Own car available. Please call Luisa 516-485-9215 or 516-451-1781. Leave message.

CAREER TRAINING

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

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY?

Appeal! If you’re over 50+, filed for SSD and denied, our attorneys can help get you approved! No money out of pocket! 855478-2506

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GET DIRECTV! ONLY $35/ month. 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies on Demand (w /SELECT All Included Package). PLUS Stream on UP to FIVE Screens Simultaneously at No Additional Cost. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918 LUNG CANCER? And Age 60+? You and your family may be entitled to significant cash award. Call 866-951-9073 for information. No risk. No money out of pocket.

SAVE ON YOUR NEXT PRESCRIPTION ! World Health Link. Price Match Guarantee! Prescriptions Required. CIPA Certified. Over 1500 medications available. CALL today for a free price quote. 1-866-569-7986 Call Now!!

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

TURN YOUR TREASURES INTO CASH!

Come to Consign/Stay to Shop!

109 Eleventh Street, Garden City 516-746-8900

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-SilverMirrors-Lamps-ArtworkChinaCrystal-Collectibles Tuesday-Friday 10-4 Saturday 12-4

(10% Sr. Discount Tues) All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Email: store@atstewartexchange.org

Like us on Facebook & Instagram

MARKETPLACE

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN

Looking to sell items from your home?

Consider doing an Online Auction!

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

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

Estate and Tag Sales Online Auctions Cleanout and Moving Services

Home Staging Services Appraisals

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

MARKETPLACE

ENTERTAINMENT 3pc TV

CENTER cabinet w/ doors & 2 glass/mirror/China storage side pcs. Great Condition.

VINTAGE COUNTRY FRENCH

white girls bedroom 8 pieces dresser, corner desk w/chair, night table, 2 cabinets w/ bookcase hutches, headboard. Contact Dora: 516-459-5902

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Oriental items, clothing, art, old & modern furniture, estates, jewelry, silver, glassware, dishes, old photos, coins & stamps, flatware, comic books, action figures. Call George 718-386-1104 or 917-775-3048

TAG SALE

GARDEN CITY MOVING SALE

Saturday, December 7 9am to 3pm 10 First Street Furniture, Home Decor, Household & More MOVING !! ALL MUST GO !!!

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN TAG SALE - GARDEN CITY

Wednesday, December 11, 2019 9:30 a.m. 81 Second St. Dining Room, rugs, leather couches, TONS of tools and equipment, bunk beds, garage, bike rack, mission Stickley type furniture, records, electronics and stereo equipment. Visit www.invitedsales.com for pictures & details!!

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

PETS

PET SERVICES

A GARDEN CITY ANIMAL

LOVER doesn’t want to leave your precious pooch or fantastic feline alone all day. I’m reliable, dependable and will walk and feed your pet while you work or travel. Please call Cheryl at 516-971-3242

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR to Wheels For Wishes, benefitting Make-a-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 631317-2014 Today!

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENT WESTERN NASSAU COUNTY

Beautiful ground floor, one bedroom apartment available in Central Western Nassau County. Private entrance, full kitchen, full bath, central air, private parking, very close to Mineola LIRR. $1,550 plus utilities. Non-smokers, no pets. Background checks required. Call: 516-844-0130

OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE

CUTCHOGUE

SUMMER RENTAL

Month of July $12,000 House on water with dock. LR / Den, EIK, DR, 4BRs, 3 Baths, CAC.

Contact Eileen: 516-316-3350

REAL ESTATE WANTED

HOMES

WANTED

GARDEN CITY

Young G.C. couple looking for a home to purchase in Garden City Pre-approved

Close at your convenience. NO BROKERS PLEASE Call or Text: 516-729-2359

SERVICES

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY!

TV, Internet & Voice for $99.97 /mo. 100 MB per second speed. Free Primetime on Demand. Unlimited Voice. NO CONTRACTS. Call 1-855-977-7198 or visit: http ://tripleplaytoday.com/ press

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A.

D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

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

COMPUTERS

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

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

*Minor Electrical & Plumbing

25year GC Resident

Lic & Ins H18E2170000

Call BOB 516-741-2154

AQUATEC

LAWN SPRINKLERS

Fall Drain Outs

Backflow Device Tests

Free Estimates

Installation

Service/Repairs

Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

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

LAMPS FIXED $65

In home service. Handy Howard. 646-996-7628

MADE IN THE SHADE

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework

Pavers, Retaining Walls, Bel gium Block Patios, Founda tions, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Side walks, Steps.

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured

#H2219010000

Boceski Masonry

Louie 516-850-4886

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY!

Slate & Tile Specialists

All types of Roofing

Local References

Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo

PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care

Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.drannmariedangelo.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock

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

JOHN MIGLIACCIO

Licensed & Insured #80422100000

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

MICHELANGELO PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

SERVICES

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY

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

TUTORING

MATH, PHYSICS, SAT/ACT

TUTOR adjunct professor Calculus I,II. Algebra, trig, AP & Pre-Calc, IB NYS Certified, highly experienced. Call Mr. G 516-787-1026

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

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

CLEANING

CLEANING AVAILABLE EXPERIENCED POLISH HOUSE CLEANER

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

CLEANING SERVICE: Houses, Apartments, Offices. Excellent references. Own transportation, Experienced. Call Dinora 516-435-7167

CLEANING SERVICES

Available to clean Homes, Offices, Apartments, etc. Excellent LOCAL references. Contact Erika or Dunia 516-808-2940

SERVICES

A & J MOVING & STORAGE:

Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving.com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405

DISH TV $59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-943-0838

If you haven’t tried Chewy.com yet for your pet food and supply purchases, this is a great time to check them out. Last Hope is now part of their rescue program. For each new customer that makes a purchase, Last Hope will receive a $20 donation. Click on the ad below or go directly to the Last Hope page at https:// www.chewy.com/rp/5941

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

Most of us can remember our mothers telling us breakfast is the most important meal of day. And Mom was right; it’s not a meal we want to skip. It literally “breaks the fast” and kick-starts our metabolism, helping burn calories throughout the day.

Breakfast also provides energy to get things done and focus. Studies have linked eating breakfast to good health, better memory, lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) and lower risk for diabetes, heart disease and being overweight.

Skipping that morning meal can throw off your body’s rhythm of fasting and eating. (Hence, intermittent fasting may not be such a good idea after all.) When we get up in the morning, our blood sugar tends to be low; eating breakfast brings it up to normal levels.

However, just over half of Americans eat breakfast daily, even though 8 in 10 Americans agree it’s the most important meal of the day, according to a survey

by

The Importance of Breakfast

Quaker Oats. Can breakfast really help you lose weight? Some studies say yes. Researchers have found that on average, people who eat breakfast are thinner that those who don’t, perhaps because eating protein and fiber in the morning keeps the appetite in check. Studies show that most people who lose weight and keep the weight off eat breakfast every day.

We know that breakfast helps kids do better in school, and schools have responded by providing breakfast to students. Students who don’t eat breakfast have a harder time focusing, are more tired and don’t do as well on schoolwork. If you have a child who doesn’t like eating in the morning at home, pack something for the ride to school or in between classes. In our home, the solution was a smoothie that my daughter could drink on the ride to school.

So how can you make breakfast a daily habit? Think outside the box for your morning meal.

BY CHARLYN FARGO

The Quaker survey found that nearly half of consumers prefer savory flavors for breakfast. So ditch the not-so-healthy doughnut for a vegetable frittata or an egg omelet in a cup that can be popped in the microwave. You can also add a sliced hard-boiled egg to avocado toast or spread a bagel with peanut or almond butter.

Try for a mix of foods that have carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats and fiber: Greek yogurt with granola and berries, smoothies or a make-ahead option of overnight oats, whole grain cereal with lowfat milk or a whole-grain protein bar.

Q and A

Q: How many fruits and vegetables should you eat daily?

A: Most of us don’t get enough. The recommendation from the United States Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate is to fill half your plate at breakfast, lunch and dinner with fruits and vegetables -- the more colorful, the better. A goal to aim for is nine; incorporate four servings of fruit per day

and five servings of vegetables per day.

RECIPE

Here’s an overnight oat recipe to try for breakfast from Hy-Vee’s Balance magazine. It can be made ahead in your slow cooker and then warmed up as needed.

OVERNIGHT COCONUT-CHAI MULTIGRAIN CEREAL

Nonstick cooking spray

1 1/2 cups water

2 cups light coconut milk

1/2 cup steel cut oats

1/4 cup wheat berries

1/4 cup quinoa flakes or quick-cooking oats

1/4 cup pearled barley

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

Toppings: pomegranate seeds, blueberries, raspberries, toasted coconut, almonds, pistachios, walnuts, chia or flax seed.

Spray a 1 1/2-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray. Combine water, coconut milk, oats, wheat berries, quinoa flakes, barley, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg and allspice in slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. Serve with desired toppings. Serves 8 (1/2 cup each).

Per serving: 220 calories; 4 grams protein; 23 grams carbohydrates; 13 grams fat; 0 grams cholesterol; 3 grams fiber; 3 grams sugar (0 grams added); 80 milligrams sodium.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian at Hy-Vee in Springfield, Illinois, and the media representative for the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD. To find out more about Charlyn Fargo and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com

From Burgers to Black Beans: How to Wrangle a Kid Gone Meatless ENERGY EXPRESS

It can happen in the best of homes. You think you’ve done everything right as a parent -- good schools, restricted screen time, all-cotton underwear -- and then one day at dinner, your world explodes.

Your kid goes veggie. She stops eating meat. “I’ve decided on a plant-based diet,” little Lindsey explains, turning her nose, knife and fork up at the beautiful burger on her plate. “How can you eat somebody’s mother?”

Some version of this drama plays out every day in homes across America as more young people become aware of the face on the plate and how it relates to the planet they live on.

I hope we can blame schools, but however it happens, kids eating green is trending up, and meatloaf-loving parents need help, strategies, patience and sometimes pharmaceuticals.

Step one? Don’t panic. There are experts to advise you, and one of them is Lisa Barley of Vegetarian Times, a great resource for 100 things to do with chickpeas.

“Your child’s new diet doesn’t have to make your life more difficult,” she explains in calming, reasonable tones. There are ways to be supportive, less stressed. Here are some of them, along with my own embellishments:

DON’T WORRY. Your kids health won’t suffer if they’re following a well-planned veggie diet, say the authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics. They can get all the vitamins and minerals they need to be healthy and strong, but it requires some study.

LISTEN UP. Ask your kids to share the reasons they’re giving up meat, Lisa suggests. Keep an open mind. If they’ve gone on YouTube and seen the horrible things that happen to cows and chickens in the name of factory farming, take a look yourself. Sit down over a plate of edamame and talk it over. More important than talking is listening to your child -- listening without judging. “Think of it as an opportunity to get to know their values and worldview,” Barley writes.

BY MARILYNN PRESTON

ASSIGN HOMEWORK. Lisa

wants you to get your kids involved in whatever eating changes they want to make. Have your newbie vegetarian “make a list of nutritious snacks and meals and draft a shopping list, “ she says in a state of mind some parents will regard as delusional.

Another strategy: Go over the vegetarian food pyramid together so all involved can see what a well-balanced diet looks like. In case your vegetarian food pyramid has gone missing, you can always find it again at http://www. vegetariannutrition.org/6icvn/ food-pyramid.pdf.

BE A STUDENT. When a child goes veggie, it’s smart to have a couple of reliable resources you can turn to with your questions and concerns. But beware! There is a lot of confusing, conflicting and corporately designed nutrition information online. Barley recommends parents check in with two nonprofits I’ve trusted and admired for years: Oldways Vegetarian Network and Physicians Committee for Responsible

Medicine. Going to your family doctor with nutrition questions is usually fruitless.

SET GROUND RULES. Rule No. 1: “Make it clear that junk food vegetarianism won’t fly,” Barley says. Eating real food should be the focus, not bags of chips and cookies that are vegan and packed with sugar. If you need help with meal planning and prep, ask your child to pitch in. (Why do I hear you laughing?)

And keep the drama over food choices to a minimum. Declare the dining table a no-war zone of peace. Nothing puts a bigger chill in the air than a heated discussion about tortured and stressed industrial chickens ... while half the family is chewing on them.

COOK AND EAT TOGETHER. I’ve saved the best for last. It’s also the most idealistic, but so what? Help create a world where everyone respects everyone else’s food choices. Start in your own kitchen. Focus on foods you can all eat together, like make-yourown tacos with different fillings or pasta with one meat sauce, one

veggie sauce. DIY pizza is good, too.

The crucial thing is your attitude. A kid’s choosing to go meatless isn’t the end of the world. It’s an introduction to a world you might want to join yourself someday.

As one mother told Barley, “There are many bad choices that a child can make in this world, and being a vegetarian is definitely not one of them.”

ENERGY EXPRESS-O! KINDNESS COUNTS

“If slaughterhouses had glass walls, the whole world would be vegetarian.” -- Linda McCartney

Marilynn Preston is the author of “Energy Express,” America’s longest-running healthy lifestyle column. Her new Amazon best-seller, “All Is Well: The Art {and Science} of Personal Well-Being,” is available now on Amazon and elsewhere. Visit Creators Publishing at creators.com/ books/all-is-well to learn more. For more on personal well-being, visit www.MarilynnPreston.com.

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court

Nassau County WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, DBA, CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR CARLSBAD FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST, Plaintiff -against-

DONALD H. GABIS, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated August 21, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at (CCP) Calendar Control Part Court Room of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr., Mineola, NY on January 7, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. premises situate, lying and being at Syosset, Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Westerly side of Humphrey Drive, distant 200 feet Southerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Westerly side of Humphrey Drive and the Southerly side of Edward Drive; being a plot 50 feet by 193.77 feet by 50.12 feet by 190.35 feet. Section: 15 Block: E Lots: 14 and 15 Said premises known as 15 HUMPHREY DRIVE, SYOSSET, NY

Approximate amount of lien $378,945.94 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment

and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 002012/2014.

CHARLES CASOLARO, ESQ., Referee

David A. Gallo & Associates LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 99 Powerhouse Road, First Floor, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577

File# 7254.8525

SYO 4328 4X 12/06,13,20,27

NOTICE OF NAME CHANGE

Notice is hereby given that an order granted by the Supreme Court, Nassau County, on the 15th day of November, 2019, bearing Index Number 19-001221, a copy of which may be examined at the office of the clerk, located at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York grants me the right to assume the name of Benson Zulun Lao. The city and state of my present address are SYOSSET, NY the month and the year of my birth are June, 2016; the place of my birth is COLLEGE POINTS, NY; my present name is ANSON TSZKWAN LAO.

SYO 4329 1X 12/06

TOB to present free

“Holiday on Ice” show

The Town of Oyster Bay will present the Annual “Holiday on Ice” Show at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 21 at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center located in Bethpage Community Park, 1001 Stewart Avenue.  Admission to the show is free.  Students from the Town’s Ice Skating Program will perform an enchanting, holiday-themed skating exhibition and the evening includes an exhibition hockey game between the Elves and the Reindeer, which are two teams comprised of players from the Town of Oyster Bay Youth Ice Hockey program.  Santa Claus is scheduled to visit with children and take photographs after the show.

“This special holiday performance is an annual tradition for many families and children across the Town,” said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.  “The show provides an opportunity for participants in the Town’s ice skating program to showcase the hard work they’ve put into training all year.  Join us on December 21st, as the performance is sure to dazzle all those in attendance!”

In the spirit of “the season of giving,” attendees are asked to bring two non-perishable food

items for donation to Island Harvest, an organization committed to ending hunger on Long Island.  Attendees are also welcome to bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation to the United States Marines Toys for Tots Collection Drive which benefits local children throughout the community.

“Holiday on Ice” performance attendees will also be offered an opportunity to take part in the Holiday Mail for Heroes program, which offers residents the opportunity to fill out free holiday greeting cards, available in the lobby, for delivery to troops in the United States Armed Forces stationed in the homeland and around the globe.

Due to the “Holiday on Ice” show, the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center’s regularly scheduled public skating sessions slated for 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., will be cancelled on December 21.  However, the Town’s two outdoor rinks, located at Marjorie R. Post Community Park in Massapequa and at SyossetWoodbury Park will be open for visitors.  Please visit www.oysterbaytown.com for more information or call (516) 433-RINK (7465).

Play basketball, volleyball and badminton at Town program

The Town of Oyster Bay will offer Co-Ed Recreational Programs for basketball, badminton and volleyball beginning the first week of January 2020 at the Hicksville Athletic Center. Registration for these programs will be open beginning December 1 at the Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 Broadway in Hicksville.

“The Town’s winter recreational programs have consistently proven to be one of the most popular programs the Town offers each year. All of these recreational programs are open to residents ages 18 and older, and serve as a great opportunity to make new friends and stay in shape during the winter doldrums,” said Town Councilman Thomas Hand. “These recreational programs are a great way to have fun and stay active throughout the cold and dreary months of the winter season. I encourage residents to take advantage of these fantastic Town programs.”

The Co-Ed Badminton program will feature three sessions available for registrants to choose from: Tuesdays from 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Fridays from 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sundays from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Badminton program is 10 weeks long and costs $75 for residents and $100 for non-residents.

The Co-Ed Basketball program will feature three sessions available to choose from: Thursdays from 9:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., and Sundays from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The Basketball program is also 10 weeks long and costs $25 for residents and $40 for non-residents.

The Co-Ed Volleyball program will begin in early January and will be split into two different divisions: competitive and novice. Competitive sessions will be held on Mondays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:15 p.m., Wednesdays from 8:45 p.m. to 10:15 p.m., and Saturdays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sessions for the novice division will take place on Mondays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:45 p.m., Wednesdays from 10:15 p.m. to 11:45 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The volleyball program is 10 weeks long, and costs residents $75 and $100 for non-residents. Proof of residency is required for the resident discount. Additionally, schedule is subject to change. For further information, including special holiday scheduling, please contact the Town of Oyster Bay Hicksville Athletic Center at (516) 797-4125 ext. 2 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

Advertise in our papers!

If you own a business or have a service to provide, we’ll create professional advertisements to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!

This Week at the Jericho Public Library

Saturday, December 7

at 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

Meet the Artist Reception: Brush Reflections:

Sumi-e Society of Long Island

In the gallery through December. The public is invited to attend.

Sunday, December 8 at 2:00 p.m.

Celebrate the Holidays with Lydia

Join Lydia Sabosto for an afternoon of winter and holiday music laced with fun. She will intrigue you with her stories and have you singing along with songs you know and love. Who knows...there might even be a surprise guest or two!

Jericho cardholders may pick up 2 tickets per person immediately. Pickup of 2 tickets per person for non-residents began November 13.

Monday, December 9 at 2:00 p.m.

Art Lecture:

Rembrandt & Velázquez

In the Rijks Museum exhibition (October 11, 2019 – January 19, 2020), paintings of highly-renowned Dutch and Spanish masters will be displayed in pairs. The works, one from each country, will be shown together for the first time. Join Professor Germano for this visual lecture curated around this unique topic in the ‘year of Rembrandt’, the 350th anniversary of his death.

Monday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

Board of Trustees Meeting

The public is invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Library Board of Trustees.

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

Movie: “The Great Buster” (Documentary/Biography)

This film celebrates the life and career of one of America’s most influential and celebrated filmmakers and comedians, Buster Keaton. Starring Buster Keaton, Peter Bogdanovich, Mel Brooks. Not Rated. 1 hour, 42 minutes.

Tuesday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m.

Talk About Books:

An Evening Book Discussion with Fran Cohen

“A Place for Us” by Fatima Farheen Mirza

A poignant, rich layered, deeply moving, resonant story of love, identity and belonging. We explore the intricacies of a family straddling two different cultures.

An Evening Book Discussion. Listeners are welcome! Refreshments will be available.

Wednesday, December 11 at 2:00 p.m.

Hollywood Screen Legends:

A Tribute to Grace Kelly & Kirk Douglas Presenter: Richard Knox

Grace Kelly was 20 when she appeared in New York City theatrical productions and more than 40 episodes of live drama productions. In 1953, she gained stardom from her performance in “Mogambo‚”which won her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination. She had leading roles in several films, including “The Country Girl” with Bing Crosby, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Kirk Douglas is one of the last surviving stars of the film industry’s Golden Age. After an impoverished childhood with immigrant parents and six sisters, he had his film debut in “The Strange Love of Martha Ivers” (1946) with Barbara Stanwyck. Douglas soon developed into a leading box-office star throughout the 1950s, known for serious dramas as well as westerns and several war movies. He appeared in more than 90 films and expanded his talents to include directing and producing.

Thursday, December 12

from 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

Adult Game & Coloring Time

Bring your friends and a game to play for an afternoon of fun and relaxation. Play canasta, mah jongg, Scrabble or any other game of your choice. We’re setting up the Meeting Room with tables, chairs and refreshments. We will also have coloring pages and pencils – or bring your own – for a colorful afternoon.

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

Movie: “The Best of Enemies” (Biography/Drama/History)

Civil rights activist Ann Atwater faces off against C.P. Ellis, Exalted Cyclops of the Ku Klux Klan, in 1971 Durham, N.C. over the issue of school integration. Starring Taraji P. Henson, Sam Rockwell, Babou Ceesay.

Rated PG-13. 2 hours, 13 minutes.

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

53 Burtis Lane, Syosset

Sold Price: $1,850,000

Date: 10/15/2019

5 beds, 3 Full/1 Half baths

Style: Colonial # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 1.16

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $36,893

MLS# 3139910

Sold Price: $829,000

Date: 09/12/2019

4 beds, 3 Full baths

Style: Hi Ranch

# of Families: 1

Lot Size: 77x95

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $18,664

MLS# 3127730

Sold Price: $900,000

Date:09/20/2019

3 beds, 3 Full baths

Style: Ranch # of Families: 1

Lot Size: 84x122

Schools: Jericho

Total Taxes: $17,060

MLS# 3128003

21 Narcissus Drive, Syosset 49 Hightop Ln,

Sold Price: $810,000

Date: 11/21/2019

3 beds, 2 Full baths

Style: Split # of Families: 1

Lot Size: .23 acre

Schools: Syosset

Total Taxes: $17,555

MLS# 3148654

27 Hedgerow Lane, Jericho  20 East Street, Syosset

Sold Price: $740,000

Date: 10/18/2019

3 beds, 3 Full baths

Style: Exp Ranch # of Families: 1

Lot Size: .24

Schools: Jericho

Total Taxes: $17,317

MLS# 3148621

Laurel Hollow | $3,900,000 | 5-BR, 5.55-BA | Web# 3148185

Spectacular all brick custom built estate offering banquet‑size rooms, ideal for entertaining. Two magnificent acres .

Madeleine Camay M: 516.818.3947

Woodbury | $1,399,000 | 5-BR, 3.5-BA | Web# 3126649

Beautifully renovated Colonial located in “The Gates” with a stunning transitional‑style kitchen and grand size rooms.

Annalisa Bossio M: 516.445.0454

Jericho | $749,000 | 3-BR 2-BA | Web# 3168412

Conveniently located light and bright ranch‑style home offering high ceilings and deck overlooking large yard.

Christine Malloy M: 516.474.8909

Muttontown | $1,845,000 | 4-BR, 2.5-BA | Web# 3160873

Circular driveway brings you to this expanded colonial. Perfectly located on half‑acre with gunite in ground pool.

Reena Khera M: 516.263.8918

Syosset | $999,999 | 4-BR, 4-BA | Web# 3123544

Amazing colonial offering endless technology and green features throughout.

Brian Fagen M: 917.863.2109

Syosset | $725,000 | 3-BR, 2.5-BA | Web# 3179768

Walls of glass fill this home offering plenty of natural light. Oversized driveway surrounded by professional landscaping. Barbara Bucovetsky M: 516428.2016

Old Westbury | $1,750,000 | 7-BR, 5.5-BA | Web# 3182137

Located in the Village of Old Westbury. Newly renovated approx. 6,000 square foot estate on 3.03 flat useable acres.

Harpreet Singh M: 516.554.6616

Jericho | $985,000 | 4-BR, 3-BA | Web# 3174505

Located in sought‑after White Birch section of Jericho, renovated split level home offering an open concept floor plan. Carolyn Campbell Gould M: 516.972.5772

Seaford | $529,000 | 3-BR, 1.55-BA | Web# 3177668

Immaculate and well maintained split offering many new updates. Beautiful backyard perfect for entertaining. Marissa Cifarelli M: 516.680.0683

SYOSSET OFFICE 317 Jackson Avenue O: 516.921.2262