Chamber learns keys to influential communication Swim, dive team sets Nassau County record
On November 25, the Syosset High School Boys Swimming & Diving team made history, securing its 89th consecutive dual meet victory and setting a new Nassau County record for the longest win streak. The team has already added to that milestone with a 90th consecutive win on December 1.
Syosset began its extraordinary run on January 13, 2015, and over the past decade
has built one of the most successful streaks in county history. The previous record was set in the 1970s by Plainview-Old Bethpage. Syosset now stands alone atop the county record books.
This accomplishment not only celebrates athletic excellence but also highlights the character, discipline, and unity that define Syosset’s student-athletes.
“Breaking the coun -
ty record is an incredible honor that belongs to every athlete, coach, parent, and alum who has shaped this program over the years,” said head coach Michael Cipollino. “This milestone reflects our athletes’ relentless work ethic and dedication. I’m truly honored to coach such an outstanding group of student-athletes.”
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BY RIKKI MASSAND
Local professionals and business owners in Woodbury explored methods to inspire action and strengthen business connections through effective communication at the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce’s November 20 program. The Chamber welcomed guest speaker Michele Rebetti, president of Crestcom leadership development consultancy. Chamber Vice President Tami Racaniello introduced Rebetti, noting her master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology from Hofstra University and more than 25 years of experience in learning and development.
“Michele has extensive experience in creating highly effective management and employee development programs, as well as executive and leadership coaching. She has owned her own company for the last 11 years, working with many Long Island businesses and nonprofits,” Racaniello said. She added that Rebetti helps organizations “improve productivity and profitability by coaching managers to sharpen their focus on the bottom line and enhance their organization’s abilities.”
In 2020, the Long Island Elite business and networking nonprofit named Rebetti its Member of the Year. She has also taught at
Farmingdale State College and Molloy University. Her Chamber presentation, Become a More Influential Communicator, focused on learning techniques to communicate with intention, inspire action, and achieve successful outcomes.
Rebetti distributed a worksheet highlighting the difference between communications with “no call to action” versus those that state one clearly. The goal, she explained, is to prompt action, establish deadlines, and specify what the sender will do in return.
“Prioritize communicating to be able to do things a little bit better,” she said. “When you’re looking at making communication more influential, we want people to pay attention. We want it to be engaging so people know what’s in it for them. In the end, an action is needed.”
She also asked Chamber members to consider the difference between influencing and manipulating. The distinction, she said, comes down to intent.
“If I’m trying to manipulate someone it’s usually because it would be good for me. If I am influencing someone, it’s because it’s not only good for me it is good for you – I just have to convince you it’s good for you. People might not know it but everyone always wants to focus on W.I.F.M. - what’s in it
See page 6
The Syosset High School Boys Swimming and Diving team
Photo courtesy Syosset Central School District
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Christmas Tree Lighting
Nassau County Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker, left, and New York State Senator Steve Rhoads with Santa at the Good Shepherd Christmas Tree Lighting.
Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) joined the Plainview community at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Sunday, Nov. 30 for the community’s annual interfaith Christmas tree lighting celebration.
The event featured musical performances by the Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School’s acapella and mixed choirs; Temple Chaverim and the Good Shepherd schoolchildren; a hot cocoa truck; and pictures with Santa Claus. There was also a special collection in support of Rally for Rebecca in support
of Rebecca Koltun’s ongoing recovery.
“The rain was no match for Plainview’s unity and holiday spirit, and it is always wonderful to see our community come together to spread joy and warmth,” Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. “Having the honor of introducing Santa was a wonderful way to cap off this magical evening, and I thank Alison and Good Shepherd for working so tirelessly to foster a cherished Plainview tradition that has spread cheer for more than two decades!”
Town plans blood collection drive
With hospitals facing a nationwide blood shortage, the Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to attend a Blood Collection Drive on Tuesday, December 23, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 S. Broadway in Hicksville.
Town Clerk Richard LaMarca stated, “Blood supplies are critically needed for local hospitals to meet the demand and continue saving lives. Please consider participating in this blood drive to help bolster our blood banks and ensure as many people as possible can be helped. Together, we can give the gift of life though a simple blood donation.”
Appointments are preferred for the Town’s Blood Drive. To qualify as a donor, a person must be between the ages of 17 and 75 years old (16 with parental permission and 76 or older with a doctor’s note), weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood
within the last 56 days. Anyone who received a tattoo within the past three months is ineligible to donate. It is recommended that donors eat well (low fat) and drink fluids in the days before the Blood Drive. Additionally, all donors will receive a voucher for a free Blizzard at Dairy Queen.
Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino added, “It’s quick, easy, and safe to donate a single pint of blood which can save up to three lives. Donating blood at the Hicksville Athletic Center, is an incredible way for all of us to pitch in and give back, to help ease the burden of our Healthcare Heroes as they continue to provide lifesaving efforts.”
For additional information regarding the Town’s Blood Drive, contact (516) 624-6380. To make an appointment to donate at this Blood Drive, sign up today at www.oysterbaytown.com/ blooddrive
Last call for winter coat donations
With just a few days remaining in Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker’s (D - Plainview) fourth annual winter coat drive for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, supporters are urged to bring their donations to the Syosset and Jericho Libraries, as well as Syossetbased Always Orthodontics prior to the drive’s Monday, Dec. 22 conclusion.
Until that date, donors are invited to drop off new and gently used winter coats and winter accessories (gloves, hats, scarves, etc.) during normal business hours at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset, N.Y. 11791; the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane, Jericho N.Y. 11753; and Always Orthodontics, 485 Underhill Blvd., Suite 306, Syosset, N.Y. 11791.
“The wonderfully generous response to our fourth annual winter coat drive has truly warmed my heart – and it motivates me even more to do everything within our power to help deserving families throughout
our region this holiday season,”
Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. “Please join us in wrapping our neighbors with the comfort, safety and love that is embodied by the donation of a winter coat or other cold-weather essentials at one of our community dropoff sites before Dec. 22 – and let’s make a difference together!”
“The Long Island Coalition for the Homeless is deeply grateful to Legislator Arnold Drucker and his team for organizing this coat drive in support of our neighbors in need,” said Greta Guarton, LMSW, Executive Director for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. “Thanks to their leadership and the generosity of his constituents, the coats collected will be distributed throughout the winter season to help Long Islanders stay warm. We are proud to partner with Legislator Drucker’s Office in this important effort.”
Anyone interested in supporting the coat drive can contact Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 or adrucker@nassaucountyny. gov for details.
From left: Greta Guarton, LMSW, executive director, Long Island Coalition for the Homeless and Jessica Labia-Bookstaver, director of support programs for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. Greta is holding Milo Guarton, resident mascot and certified therapy dog at the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless.
Photo courtesy Office of Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker
Athletes helping athletes in Bethpage schools
Bethpage High School athletes returned to their elementary school roots on Dec. 5, bringing mentorship and inspiration to fifth graders at Charles Campagne School through the Athletes Helping Athletes program.
Bethpage High School athletes returned to their elementary school roots on Dec. 5, bringing mentorship and inspiration to fifth graders at Charles Campagne School through the Athletes Helping Athletes program.
The program creates a unique full-circle moment as high school students mentor young athletes at the very schools where their own educational journeys began. All of the Athletes Helping Athletes mentors at Charles Campagne are former CCS students themselves, establishing an immediate connection and relatability with their fifth-grade mentees.
The Athletes Helping Athletes initiative will extend beyond Charles Campagne to include Kramer Lane and Central Boulevard elementary schools as well, with each location staffed by Bethpage High School students who attended those respective schools.
The high school mentors, ranging from grades 10 through 12, aren’t just any volunteers. They undergo a rigorous selection process and receive specialized training from Adelphi University’s sports management program to ensure they’re well-prepared for their mentoring roles.
During the first session at CCS, mentors focused on building genuine connec
Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
tions with their mentees while establishing a theme of personal growth through athletics. Fifth graders were divided into small groups, each guided by two high school mentors who shared personal stories of overcoming challenges through sports and demonstrating good sportsmanship both on and off the field or court.
The mentors positioned themselves as accessible resources for advice and guidance, particularly as the fifth graders prepare for their transitions to middle and high school. Icebreaker activities helped break down initial barriers and set an enthusiastic, positive tone for the program ahead.
Throughout the session, mentors emphasized that athletics serves as more than just competition – it’s a vehicle for personal and social development, and most importantly, it should be enjoyable.
The inaugural mentoring session concluded with fifth graders feeling inspired and energized about their journeys in both athletics and education. With two more sessions scheduled, both mentors and mentees are eager to continue building these meaningful relationships while exploring topics designed to support the young students’ growth and development.
Registration open for Town Winter Fitness Classes
Residents ready to fulfill their New Year's resolutions or just looking for a great way to stay in shape can join in the Town of Oyster Bay Co-Ed Fitness Classes! Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announces that registration hyas opened for a variety of fitness classes, including Ballroom Dancing, Pilates, Intermediate Pilates, Zumba, Cardio Kickboxing, Yoga and Gentle Movement/Mediation in the new year at the Hicksville Athletic Center. These 10-week classes are open to all residents ages 18 and over and offer a fun way to stay fit and meet new people.
“These great fitness programs provide a fun way to stay active while increasing energy and making new friends,” said Councilwoman Walsh. “Whether you’re into high-energy workouts like cardio kickboxing or prefer something more relaxing like yoga, there's a class for everyone to enjoy!”
Sessions begin the first week of January 2026 in the following programs:
Ballroom Dancing:
• Saturdays, 7–8 p.m., starting January 10
Cardio Kickboxing:
• Thursdays, 8–9 p.m., starting January 8
Pilates:
• Mondays, 8–9 p.m., starting January 5
Yoga:
• Saturdays, 9–10 a.m., starting January 10
• Sundays, 8:45–9:45 a.m., starting January 4
• Tuesdays, 8–9 p.m., starting January 6
• Thursdays, 7–8 a.m., starting January 8
Zumba:
• Mondays, 6:45–7:45 p.m., starting January 5
• Wednesdays, 7:30–8:30 p.m., starting January 7
• Saturday, 7:45–8:45 a.m., starting January 10
Gentle Movement/Mediation:
• Tuesdays, 7–8 a.m., starting January 6
• Saturdays, 8:15–9:15 p.m., starting January 10
Registration for residents opened on Monday, December 8, at oysterbaytown.com/sports. Residents will need to upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid ID (like a driver's license). Non-resident registration begins on December 15. Registration is $75 for Town residents and $100 for non-residents.
Don’t forget your mats! Participants should bring their own mats for Yoga, Pilates, Cardio Kickboxing and Gentle Movement/Meditation. Class schedules are subject to change, and if a session is cancelled, make-up days will be attempted. For more information or questions about special scheduling, call (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny.gov
Gift wrapping fundraiser
The Mercy League will hold its annual Holiday Gift Wrapping Fundraiser at the Broadway Commons Mall from December 17 through December 24, 2025 to help raise funds for enrichment activ-
ities and hospital equipment at Mercy Hospital.
Hours: December 17–December 23: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; December 24 (Christmas Eve): 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
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Chamber learns keys to influential communication
From page 1
for me? Think about communicating, delegating and asking specific questions with what’s in it for the other person. It isn’t selfish,” she explained.
Rebetti shared the “Golden Rule” of influencing: If you don’t ask, you won’t get. Communications, she said, should direct people toward a specific action. “In verbal communication — in meetings, training sessions, delegations, or proposals — ASK for what you need. In emails and at the end of meetings, confirm that people know what needs to be done next.”
She encouraged small businesses to follow up on leads and ensure that communications
capture interest from the start. Crafting compelling email subject lines and first sentences, she said, is essential.
“When we communicate, how much of our message is translated through our words, how much through our voice, and how much through our body language?” she asked the audience.
Rebetti advised professionals to review their communications to ensure they clearly state:
a) what is being requested, b) when a response is needed, and
c) what the recipient is expected to do with the information.
“If I’m trying to manipulate
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NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF MEETING
someone it’s usually because it would be good for me. If I am influencing someone, it’s because it’s not only good for me it is good for you – I just have to convince you it’s good for you. People might not know it but everyone always wants to focus on W.I.F.M. - what’s in it for me? Think about communicating, delegating and asking specific questions with what’s in it for the other person. It isn’t selfish,” she explained. Influencing, she added, can also be strengthened by offering choices. “I’d want to know if today is good or tomorrow is better. Giving options lets the person feel they have input, and both options work for you. You’re acknowledging they’re
Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals
TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 11771-1592
TELEPHONE: (516) 624-6232 – FAX: (516) 624-6149
RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman – LOIS SCHMITT, Vice Chairwoman – KATHLEEN MULLIGAN
REBECCA M. ALESIA –LISA CICCOLELLA – FLORESTANO GIRARDI – BRIAN GRIFFIN
PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on DECEMBER 18, 2025, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals: BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
APPEAL NO. 25-355 SYOSSET
165 EILEEN WAY, LLC: Variance for the reduction of off-street parking spaces. Reduction of spaces to 210 when 623 parking spaces are required.
S/s/o Eileen Way, 252.33 ft. W/o Michael Dr., a/k/a 165 Eileen Way, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-356 SYOSSET
165 EILEEN WAY, LLC: Variance for the reduction of off-street parking spaces. Reduction of spaces to 210 when 623 parking spaces are required.
S/s/o Eileen Way, 252.33 ft. W/o Michael Dr., a/k/a 165 Eileen Way, Syosset, NY
APPEAL NO. 25-357 SYOSSET
165 EILEEN WAY, LLC: Variance for the reduction of off-street parking spaces. Reduction of spaces to 210 when 623 parking spaces are required.
S/s/o Eileen Way, 252.33 ft. W/o Michael Dr., a/k/a 165 Eileen Way, Syosset, NY
DECEMBER 8, 2025
BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Notice of formation of Amy’s Creation LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/06/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Liangqiong Wu: 110 Glen Way, Syosset. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
busy, but you aren’t imposing a deadline.”
Among those attending was Chamber member Will Murphy, a St. John’s University professor, attorney, and recent candidate for the New York State Assembly. He noted that influence can also involve encouraging someone not to take action with information shared. “That might be what you actually need or want of that person, and doing it intentionally and with influence the other way could be achieved using the same positioning,” he said.
Another member, Jericho resident Bruce Weller, owner of Eagle Eye Professional Home Inspection, suggested that clients may respond well to a “double-negative” approach. “People like to say no because it makes them feel in control. I could ask, ‘Are you opposed to
doing this?’ Their no is really saying yes,” he said, sharing an example from a recent car purchase negotiation.
Rebetti also encouraged members to ask clients how they believe a situation should be handled when issues arise. “If a customer gets upset, ask them how they think we should handle it. What can I do to make it right? It puts the onus on them, and we influence them to give us the information we need,” she said.
Another exercise prompted attendees to identify tasks in their businesses that consistently go undone — and to consider how gaps or inconsistencies in communication may be to blame. Several participants cited concerns about negative reviews and lost sales, and Rebetti guided them through communication strategies to help prevent future problems.
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December 12, 2025
Where to Find Best Gifts to Cheer Travelers, Adventurers’ Wanderlust
BY KAREN RUBIN
TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Enhance your traveler’s upcoming trip by prearranging a dining experience; a spa visit; admission to a museum, attraction or cultural event; a cooking, baking or jewelry making class; a hot-air balloon ride; rock-climbing adventure; walking tour; bike rental. And what trip doesn’t require some special gear? (If you time it right, you might also be able to benefit from holiday savings.)
You can purchase gift cards on many airlines including Delta Gift Card (https://www.delta.com/us/ en/gift-cards/overview); Southwest Airlines (https://www.southwest.com/ gift-card/); American Airlines (https:// giftcards.aa.com/), United Airlines, British Airways, Air France, KLM, SAS. Prefer riding the rails to boarding flights? Obtain Amtrak gift cards at https://www.amtrak.com/giftcards.
For hotels, Booking.com, hotels. com and others also sell gift cards. You can purchase gift cards for stays or amenities at Historic Hotels of America, Historic Hotels Worldwide, Beyond Green and Preferred Hotels & Resorts (all brands of Preferred Hotels & Resorts) online at giftcards. iprefer.com; Historic Hotels of Europe (https://historichotelsofeurope.com/ gift-voucher/). Small Luxury Hotels collection (https://slh.com/about-slh/ gift-cards).
Theme parks can be a very, very pricey vacation for families. Gift cards can put the vacation in reach or enhance the experience. Disney’s gift cards can be used for theme park tickets, resort stays, merchandise, dining and experiences at Disney destinations, redeemable at shopDisney.com, Disney Stores Disney Cruise Line®, and Adventures by Disney®. https://www. disneygiftcard.com/.
Spafinder.com, a compendium of resorts, wellness centers and day spas,
Give your traveler the gift of experience like hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, Turkey © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com
makes it easy to purchase giftcards, and runs holiday discounts. https:// myspafinder.spagiftcards.com/ category/eGift-Cards
Give the Gift of Experience
You can pre-purchase a citysightseeing pass that provides admissions to the most popular attractions and experiences in cities like Prague (PragueCoolPass.com); Paris (parispass.com); Amsterdam ( iamamsterdam.com ); Berlin (citypasses.eu); Dresden (getyourguide. com). The added advantage is that the passes help organize the itinerary, provide info on hours, exhibits, and most importantly, save the time of waiting on line and the anxiety of being shut out and even save money over purchasing admissions individually.
Go City sells passes in 25 destinations from major metropolises like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, Singapore, London and New York to oceanfront oases like Sydney and Oahu, on 1,500 attractions, tours, and activities worldwide, saving up to 50% over purchasing individual tickets, connected on your smart phone (GoCity. com, 800 887 9103). CityPass (https:// www.citypass.com/) has pass programs in numerous US cities and Toronto.
Arrange for your travelers to drive
an exotic car, learn to fly, rock climb, skydive, bungee jump, take a hot-air balloon ride. Virgin Experience lists some 5000 different experiences in 122 regions from 600 “best in class” partners (https://www.virgingifts.com/us)
Context Travel offers personal walking tours with experts in 60 cities across 6 continents. https://www. contexttravel.com/gift-cards/new
Also consider gifting some of the really special experiences, like Zookeeper for a Day at Busch Gardens (www.buschgardens.com), a safari experience at Safari West, Santa Rosa (800-616-2695, safariwest.com), a sleepover “Night in the Museum” experiences at places like National Air and Space Museum, International Spy Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Cincinnati Museum Center, California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, or family memberships.
For the skier/snowboarder, consider purchasing lift tickets, lessons, rentals, perhaps even a multi-day, regional or local pass (EpicPass.com, IkonPass.com, snow.com, ski.com). Get Ski Tickets is an online marketplace to purchase datespecific discounted lift tickets, lessons, rentals, group lift tickets and season passes (https://www.getskitickets. com/, 970-233-7040, info@getskitickets.
com) and gift certificates (https://www. getskitickets.com/gift-certificates/).
And cruises may advertise as being “all-inclusive” but shore excursions are costly add-ons. Pre-purchase a shore excursion from Shore Excursions Group which offers 4,000 tours in 300+ ports worldwide at much less than purchasing from the cruiseline (https:// www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/).
Travel Gear
Our favorite go-to outfitters (especially when you catch holiday deals, sales and closeouts): REI (makes it easy to find just the right gift for travelers, adventurers, top trending gifts, gifts by activity or price, www.rei.com/s/ gifts-for-travelers; sale items https:// www.rei.com/c/travel-gear/f/scddeals, 800-426-4840; members have full year to return, non-members have 90 days); LL Bean, 888-610-2326, llbean. com; Sun & Ski (gift cards available; can shop deals, promotions, purchase gift cards, chat with an expert, low price guarantee, https://www.sunandski.com/c/sun-snow-sale, sunandski. com, 866-786-3869); Eastern Mountain Sports (gift guides for men, women, kids, stocking stuffers, https://www. ems.com/collections/gift-center, 888463-6367, ems.com); Tennis Express (gift guide online, TennisExpress.com), Bass Pro Shops, www.basspro.com; Patagonia (Patagonia.com); Paragon Sports (paragonsports.com).
What trip doesn’t involve photos! B&H Photo consistently has best inventory, prices and holiday specials, efficient delivery, excellent customer service, delivery and return policies (www.bhphotovideo.com), 800.606.6969, 212.444.6615).
And of course, luggage and packs: travelpro.com, Luggageonline.com, and www.nomatic.com
© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
Week of December 14-20, 2025
We’ve all noticed it. Nights are growing longer, furnaces are working harder, and in many places, snow is blanketing the land. No doubt about it: Winter is coming!
The exact moment that winter arrives in our planet’s Northern Hemisphere this year is at 10:03 a.m. EST (7:03 a.m. PST) on Sunday, Dec. 21. For those south of the equator, however, this defines the beginning of summer.
This moment has long been known as the winter solstice. To Northern Hemisphere skywatchers, it marks the sun’s most southerly midday path across the sky, as well as the most southerly sunset point on the western horizon.
The winter solstice has been celebrated by cultures throughout the ages as the end of the season’s darkness and the rebirth of sunlight, warmth and life on Earth. It’s not a coincidence that some of our world’s major holidays are celebrated at this time of year. In fact, some -- including Christmas -- are scheduled around this one important celestial event.
Even the term “solstice” originates in antiquity, coming from two Latin words: “sol” (meaning “sun”) and “sistere” (meaning “to stand still”). It is on the winter solstice that the sun-
Winter’s Coming!
set’s southerly travel along the western horizon seems to end (the sun “stands still”), and our sun begins to drift northward once again.
You can easily watch this yourself. Go outdoors just before sunset and notice where the sun disappears behind the western horizon. You might even make a sketch or take a photograph of its position. Keep watch over the next few weeks and months, and you’ll notice that the sunset position will begin to drift northward along the horizon. By summertime, it will appear to set at its northernmost point, before it “stands still” and the cycle begins all over again.
The reason that our seasons occur is, unfortunately, a mystery to many, despite having learned all about this in elementary school. Some folks still believe that wintertime occurs because our planet lies farthest from the sun and conditions are much colder as a result. Now, while it’s true that our distance from the sun varies during the year, we’re actually millions of miles closer to the sun during our winter than during our summer!
No, our lower wintertime temperatures occur mostly because our planet’s axis is tipped 23.4 degrees to its orbit around our star and, at this time of year, the sun doesn’t appear in our daytime sky very long.
During the months of December,
January and February, the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the sun, causing sunlight to fall on us at a rather shallow angle. Six months later -- in summer -- when we’re on the opposite side of the sun, our planet’s tilt aims the Northern Hemisphere toward our star. Now solar rays beat down more directly onto the Northern Hemisphere.
From this moment on, the days become longer, the sun gradually
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appears higher in the daytime sky, and the greens of life slowly return to our planet’s Northern Hemisphere. And, though the stargazer in me enjoys the long, star-filled nights of winter, I’d be less than honest if I said I won’t relish the return of springtime!
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.
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Making the Least of a Hairy Situation
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
One of the things I find to be a complete waste of time is shaving my legs. It’s not that I don’t need it, it’s just that the shave lasts all of about eight hours before the werewolf in me begins to reemerge. Additionally, with the vast acreage of hairy body parts that need to be attended to, it takes half the day to remove it all. It is simply not possible to do it quickly without cutting my legs to ribbons and looking like I’m recreating the shower scene from “Psycho.”
From time to time, it would occur to me that there are hair removal options other than shaving. But as someone who is not particularly good with pain, I have ruled out the solutions that promise you that “it will only hurt for a second.” This is what the dentist told me when he grafted my receding gums, what the OB/GYN told me when I was in labor, and what my mother told me
about marriage.
I remember one time when I was in college, there was a new product called an Epi-something or other. It had a nice feminine name and a pretty picture of some lady’s smooth legs on the box, and it guaranteed hairless legs for up to six weeks. It sounded like a miracle product, and I snatched one up for a pretty penny. What they neglected to say was that the Epi-thingy had these coils that yanked bunches of my hair out of my leg so painfully, I considered recommending it to the military. Granted, it did leave that one inch of leg that I Epied extremely smooth before I decided it was a medieval torture device and hurled it out my third-floor dorm window.
Fortunately, I live in the part of the country that has four seasons, so for two of them anyway, I can hide my Chewbacca legs under long pants. But
one day I went for a pedicure, and it happened that I was way overdue for a shave. As I was sitting with my pants rolled up and my toes in nice warm water, one of the salon ladies walked by and gasped.
“You don’t wax?” she asked.
“I shave. I just haven’t had time,” I explained.
“You want wax?” she asked.
“NO! NO WAX!” I said firmly. “Too painful.”
“Oh, we have a new procedure,” she said. “Body sugaring! It doesn’t hurt.”
I raised a doubtful eyebrow at her. I had been down this no-hurt road before and had ended up as roadkill. She explained to me how the body sugar worked and showed me some stuff that, God help me, looked an awful lot like snot. Staring down at my legs, I decided I should probably do something before an archaeologist saw me and
proclaimed me the Missing Link. So I reluctantly agreed to give it a whirl.
As Salon Lady rolled out the sugar booger on my leg, I lay down and braced for the worst. Suddenly I heard this huge ripping sound. Miraculously, I felt absolutely no pain. Nothing. Nada. Zippo. I was ecstatic. Bolting up, I grinned at her.
“Wow, that was amazing,” I exclaimed. “It felt like nothing!” She laughed. “It was nothing,” she said, holding up a piece of the white paper that covered the massage table I was on. “I just practiced on the paper!”
Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.
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Throughout the year, the sunset’s position in the sky changes.
Casually puttering around the home
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
I come from a long line of putterers. I don’t mean a golfer who putts a ball on the greens, I mean someone who likes puttering about and spending hours looking for things that may lead to other things.
Just to be sure, I looked up the definition of the word putterer and this is what appeared:
“A putterer is a person who moves or works aimlessly, often in a leisurely way, or a person who does small, non-professional tasks as a hobby. The term often implies someone who is a hobbyist, tinkerer or dabbler, engaging in various activities without a specific professional goal.”
Yes, that’s the definition.
My father was a putterer and growing up I remember seeing Dad puttering about in the garage on many Saturdays when we kids watched TV in the living room. He’d look for his hammer or screwdriver or saw and get busy making something from wood. The thing is he’d spend more time than needed looking for the tool he was searching for. Still, he’d forge on.
Bird feeders were his favorite things to make and after painting them some bright colors he’d proudly show off the finished product to Mom and us kids then hang his latest piece on a branch in the back yard for the birds to use or give them away as presents. Nothing seemed to please him more than being able to show off his handiwork.
For years Dad worked full-time in NYC which meant taking the LIRR from Rockville Centre to Manhattan five days a week but once he retired I noticed that he’d spend hours puttering around in the garage looking for tools and making things - or he’d climb the stairs to the attic and spend hours puttering around up there looking through boxes.
So I guess I know who I inherited the puttering trait from. Dear old Dad. When large Rubbermaid bins became popularthose plastic bins that hold 31 gallons or 50 gallons - those measure 43.05 inches x 23.29 inches x 19.58 inches and they come with or without wheels. I took to them like ducks take to water. They were nice, shinier and brighter than the cardboard boxes I’d used for years.
I could line up my board games, card games, DVD movies, old cassette tapes, old vinyl records, family photo albums that we’d put together years before and more.
Once filled I’d snap the top on the bin and walk away content in the knowledge that some of my prized possessions were safely stored. I was particularly efficient
in stacking them so I made the best use of the space available.
The mistake I made at the beginning, however, was forgetting to label the Rubbermaid bins on the outside so they were easily discernible. I’d stacked them up and lined them up in the garage or my closets and months later - sometimes years later - I’d start searching for something and found the job was harder than it should have been because I’d have to open each bin and peer into its depths to find what I was searching for. That wasn’t an impossible task but labeling them would have made things so much easier.
I’m not proud of being a putterer but there could be worse things. I won’t name those things here because that would mean going off on a tangent but let’s say that I think of dear old Dad often - whenever I am deep in the throes of looking for something - a favorite board game, an old book, a very important tool I need or a skein of yard that’s just the right color for the sweater I’m starting to knit.
I am one of six Lynch kids and I never thought of my siblings as being putterers - but one time recently I was invited to my brother Phil’s home and being a prompt person, I arrived first.
Pulling my car onto his driveway I glanced up and saw his garage door open. Puttering there in the garage was Phil - opening this box and that box and I couldn’t imagine what he was searching for. But of course the search is what it’s all about.
“Ah, hah!” I said loudly, feeling better because I wasn’t the only sibling in my family who is a putterer.
When I asked Phil what he was looking for he said, “Some outdoor lights to decorate the patio. We haven’t used them in months but I know they’re here somewhere.”
And Phil kept looking. Some people call puttering doing garage projects but I contend that people can putter in lots of different places. The garage just happens to be a perfect place for puttering and rummaging about.
Knowing that I’ve got the puttering gene in my family is some consolation but that knowledge doesn’t stop me from puttering about. It’s just something we do. In recent months I’ve discovered that my brother, Peter, and sister, Susan, also like to putter around their homes.
I can think of some worse habits and vices than puttering but still, I don’t want my claim to fame to be puttering. No, thank you.
These days when I do go searching for something very important such as holiday decorations or the tax papers I
thought I’d tucked away very carefully, I don’t think of myself as someone puttering through Rubbermaid bins or boxes. Rather, I think of myself as a woman on a mission and somehow that sounds a little softer than hearing the word putterer.
I bet most putterers don’t think of themselves as putterers. They just start looking for something - the search has begun - and they keep at it and then it seems that not only minutes but hours have gone by.
As time goes on I’ve gotten more organized and more efficient so that has made my puttering habit a little less obvious than it used to be but suffice it to say that once a putterer always a putterer. What can I do?
How to Handle Social Security Issues When Someone Dies
BY TOM MARGENAU
Every couple of years, I like to cover a topic that confuses almost everyone. And that confusion comes at a time when they have so many other things on their minds. I’m talking about handling the Social Security affairs of someone who has died.
Of course, there are many different potential scenarios involving the death of someone. But for today’s column, I will be primarily dealing with the one I most commonly hear about from my readers. It involves a husband and wife, both of whom were getting Social Security benefits -- and the husband dies.
The first issue I will cover is what to do with the final Social Security check for the deceased. And to do so, I must start out by making three points. First, Social Security checks are paid one month behind. So, for example, the check you get in December is the benefit payment for November.
Second, the law says you must be alive for an entire month to be due a Social Security check for that month.
And third, Social Security benefits have never been prorated. People don’t like this rule because the Social Security check for the month of death must be returned.
To help explain how this plays out, I’ll use an example. Mary’s husband, Fred, died on Nov. 28. Mary would not be able to cash Fred’s November Social Security check (paid in December) even though Fred was alive for 28 days of the month.
But there is a flip side to this lack of a proration rule. If Fred did die on Nov. 28, Mary would be due widow’s benefits for the whole month of November, even though she was a widow for three days of the month.
And as I’ve explained many times in my column, the lack of proration can also help out when someone first starts getting Social Security. For example, if Fred took benefits at age 66 and he turned 66 on April 30 of some past year, he would have received a check for the whole month of April even though he was 66 for only one day of the month.
So to repeat, continuing with my example of Mary and Fred, after Fred dies, Mary must return the Social Security check for the month of death. But that’s only if she got the check in the first place.
I added that qualifier because there is a very good chance the check won’t even show up in their bank account. As you may have heard, there are all kinds of computer-matching operations that go on between various government agencies and banks. So if the Treasury Department learns of a person’s death in time, they won’t even issue the Social Security benefit. Or, if the check was issued, the bank will likely intercept the payment and return it to the government before it even hits a checking account. In other words, Mary usually doesn’t have to worry about
returning any Social Security checks. It’s almost always done for her.
There can be a little twist to this scenario, though. For example, let’s say that Fred died on Dec. 2. And let’s further say that his Social Security check was normally sent to him on the third of each month. In other words, Fred died just before his Social Security check was deposited into his bank account. Because he was alive the whole month of November, that means Fred was due the money from that November check (paid on Dec. 3).
And now Mary, as his widow, is due that money. Sometimes, bank officials will sort of just wink at Mary and let her keep the proceeds of that last Social Security check. But if they follow the letter of the law, that November Social Security benefit would have to be returned to the Social Security Administration. Then it will be reissued to Mary in her name. (There is a form that needs to be filled out to get that to happen. Mary would have to talk to an SSA rep about that.)
So far, I’ve been talking about dealing with the last Social Security check that was sent to the deceased. Now let’s talk about getting any Social Security widow’s benefits that will be due. I’ll continue to use the example of Mary and Fred.
If Mary were getting only Social Security spousal benefits on Fred’s record (meaning she didn’t have her own Social Security), then the Social Security Administration would simply automatically convert her from spousal benefits to widow’s benefits once she notifies them of his death. And she will also get the one-time $255 death benefit.
If Mary were getting her own Social Security benefits, and if that benefit were less than her husband’s rate, then she would be due the difference in widow’s benefits. But she will have to call Social Security at 800-772-1213 to file for those benefits and the one-time death benefit.
However, if Mary were getting her own Social Security and if she were under her full retirement age when Fred dies, then Mary would have some options. She could choose to file for reduced widow’s benefits immediately, or she could choose to wait until her full retirement age and get the full 100% widow’s rate.
If Mary was getting her own retirement benefit before Fred died, and if that benefit was higher than Fred’s benefit, then Mary wouldn’t be due any widow’s benefits. But she would be due that onetime $255 death benefit.
Throughout this column, I have been talking about a situation involving a husband and wife getting Social Security benefits, in which the husband dies. And I did that because that is the way these situations normally happen. But of course, there are many other potential scenarios.
If we have a married couple and the wife dies first, then the same rules described in this column apply to the surviving husband.
If a person who was getting Social Security benefits dies, but doesn’t have a spouse, then someone needs to notify the SSA of the death and follow the rules explained above about returning the last Social Security check. And the one-time death benefit would not be payable.
If a person who was not yet getting Social Security dies, then of course, there are no benefits to stop. But if that person left a spouse or minor children, then contact the SSA because survivor benefits may be payable.
If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon. com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.
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Why Long Island Homes Are Quietly Leaving the Market
The pandemic frenzy is long gone — and now sellers are discovering the new rules of today’s market.
Long Island’s market is changing fast. Here’s what homeowners need to know before they list.
A noticeable shift has taken hold across the Long Island real estate market: more sellers are pulling their homes off the market than at any time since the pandemic surge. The phenomenon is occurring in Nassau, Suffolk, the North Shore, South Shore, and even out toward the East End. Yet inventory remains low, buyers are active, and homes are still selling — when priced and presented correctly.
So why the sudden increase in delistings?
The answer lies in a combination of affordability pressures, mortgage-rate dynamics, market psychology, seasonal trends, and Long Island’s aging housing stock. The result is a market caught between two realities: sellers anchored to yesterday’s prices and buyers restricted by today’s costs.
Affordability Has Shifted
Dramatically
Mortgage rates hovering in the 6%–7% range have redefined what buyers can afford. A buyer who could once purchase a $700,000 home at a 3% rate may now be capped at $500,000 or less. Higher payments, higher taxes, and higher inflation have made buyers more cautious and more selective.
For sellers expecting a fast sale or bidding wars, this shift often comes as a shock.
When showings slow down and offers come in below expectations, many homeowners choose to delist rather than adjust their price.
Rate Lock-In: The Silent Force Freezing the Market
Nearly 70% of Long Island homeowners hold mortgage rates below 4%. Many refinanced into 2.5%–3.5% loans. Moving now — even into a smaller home — often means swapping a lowrate mortgage for a much higher one.
In many cases, this means:
• Higher monthly payments
• Higher taxes at the new property
• Higher insurance and maintenance costs
The math simply doesn’t work for thousands of households.
These homeowners test the market but ultimately decide to stay put, adding to the delisting numbers.
Sellers Are Still Expecting Pandemic Frenzy
Between 2020 and 2022, homes sold
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
in days — sometimes hours — with multiple offers and bidding wars well above asking.
But that market no longer exists.
Buyers are financially constrained. Overpricing is punished quickly. Homes needing updates are scrutinized or passed over entirely. Sellers who price based on 2021–2022 conditions soon find themselves reconsidering.
Instead of reducing their price, many prefer to remove the home and “wait for the spring market” or “wait for rates to drop.”
Seasonality Is Amplifying the Slowdown
Long Island real estate has always been seasonal. Activity peaks in spring and early summer, then cools through fall and winter. But the slowdown going into 2024–2025 has been sharper than usual.
With fewer buyers out and holidays approaching, many sellers aren’t willing to let their homes sit and grow stale. They pull the listing with plans to relaunch in February or March. Strategic? Yes.
But it also contributes to the rising delisting statistics.
Aging Homes Are Struggling to Compete
Long Island’s housing stock is older than the national average. Many homes — especially in Nassau County — are 60 to 90 years old. These houses often need:
• New roofs
• Updated electrical service
• Modern kitchens and bathrooms
• Updated plumbing
• Efficient heating and cooling
• Cosmetic updating
Buyers today, facing higher mortgage payments, want turnkey homes. They are less willing to overlook old kitchens, dated bathrooms, or necessary upgrades.
When offers reflect these realities — often tens of thousands below asking — many sellers choose to delist rather than negotiate or renovate.
Taxes and Carrying Costs Reduce Buyer Motivation
Long Island’s taxes are among the highest in the nation. When buyers calculate:
• Mortgage
• Property taxes
• Insurance
• Utilities
• Flood insurance (in coastal areas)
• HOA or condo fees the total monthly cost can be intimidating.
Sellers often see strong early interest only for buyers to retreat after finalizing their numbers.
The result? Another delisting.
Life Circumstances Are Also Shaping Decisions
Many homeowners begin the selling process before they fully understand their next step. But life intervenes:
• Elderly parents need care
• Adult children move back home
• Job relocations become uncertain
• Downsizing options are too expensive
• Preferred homes are unavailable
When the next chapter becomes unclear or unaffordable, sellers pause their plans and pull their listings.
A Market Recalibrating — Not Crashing
Despite the rise in delistings, Long Island’s market remains fundamentally strong.
Well-priced, well-prepared homes still sell quickly.
Buyer demand is real — just constrained.
Inventory is low — but mismatched with buyer preferences.
The market is not collapsing. It’s rebalancing.
However, on the brighter side here are some benefits to those homeowners who need and want to upsize and/or downsize:
1.) If you have built up a large equity position, then putting up a greater and more sizable down payment will most likely not be such a detrimental position to be in due the higher rates. It may be more affordable than you might anticipate. Depending on your tax bracket you just might have more deductions. (discuss with your CPA). Also, it also depends on whether or not you will have capital gains exposure (call for a free consult).
2.) If you are downsizing, then paying cash will only expose you to having to pay just the real estate taxes. Moving to another State is another option, where there are no State income taxes and lower real estate taxes e.g. Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming.
3.) Some are in a position to rent their home and purchase another one,
then after two years and one day, it is considered an investment property and one can do a 1031 Deferred Tax Exchange and defer capital gains and eliminate all capital gains taxes. Depending on your finances, in the long run could reduce them much further (call for a “free” consult).
Sellers who understand today’s buyer expectations — realistic pricing, updated condition, and strong presentation — will prevail going forward into 2026.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:
National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate).
Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions.
National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/ no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.com
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Potato Latkes
Food figures prominently in many holiday celebrations, and Chanukah is no exception. Latkes are considered a musthave in many households celebrating Chanukah, and there’s no shortage of recipes to try
3 large russet potatoes, peeled 2 eggs
1 teaspoon kosher salt
this holiday season. Those who want to take a more unique approach to latkes can consider air frying, which is a method of preparing popular fried foods that is credited with being healthier than traditional frying. Chanukah celebrants who find that appealing can try this recipe for “Potato Latkes” courtesy of Lines+Angles. Makes 4 servings
3 tablespoons matzo meal 1tablespoon cornstarch or potato starch, plus extra for dusting
1) Coarsely grate potatoes on a box grater; alternatively, use grater attachment on a food processor for uniform pieces.
2) Submerge potatoes in a bowl of cold water. Drain well and wring out in a clean dish towel to extract as much moisture as possible.
3) Beat eggs in a large mixing bowl with half the salt. Whisk in matzo meal and cornstarch or potato starch.
4) Add dried potato to egg mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine. Divide and shape into four large latkes, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
Cooking spray
Sour cream, to serve 1 tablespoon chives, snipped
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
5) Dust with more cornstarch (or potato starch, whichever using), gently shaking or brushing off excess. Season with remaining salt.
6) Preheat air fryer to 380° F. Spritz basket with cooking spray before carefully arranging latkes in it.
7) Cook for 8 minutes. Turn and cook for a further 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown all over.
8) Remove from air fryer and let cool briefly before serving with a garnish of sour cream and chives.
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Upcoming Events at the Jericho Public Library
Friday, December 12
11:30 a.m.: Hand-Stamped Wrapping Paper WorkshopDiscover the fascinating history of printing while unleashing your creativity! Find out why there were a set of stamps on every whaleship, and carve your own custom stamp. Create one-of-a-kind wrapping paper that's perfect for making a gift extra special!
2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL : Great Performers: Dick Van Dyke: America’s Funny Man with Marc Courtade - Dick Van Dyke has been one of America’s favorite performers for almost 60 years. He rose to fame on Broadway in “Bye Bye Birdie,” then starred in “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” one of the most highly acclaimed comedies in television history. Films like “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” have endeared him to fans of all ages. In spite of several attempts at retirement, he has never really stopped working. This talk will show the talents of a multitalented performer as we celebrate his 100th birthday.
4:00 p.m.: Winter Solstice Story and Craft (Grades K–3) - This year’s winter solstice arrives on December 21, the longest night of the year. Learn about what all this means, make a fun lantern, then hear a winter solstice story!
Saturday, December 13
10:30 a.m.: Jump for Joy (Ages 18 Months to 5 Years) - Join us for a lively program of music and group activities for you and your child.
2:00 p.m.: Salted Caramel Swirl Cake Cooking Demonstration with A Mano Baking Company - Salted caramel swirl cake is a rich, moist dessert with ribbons of buttery caramel and a hint of sea salt, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Please bring your own mixing bowl and utensil of choice. $5.00 per person, non-refundable.
Sunday, December 14
2:00 p.m.: Foreign Film Sunday: “Creation of the Gods I” - After conspiring with a conniving fox demon to kill the emperor and seize power, King Zhou reigns as a tyrant so brutal that he incurs the wrath of Heaven. In a
final attempt to save the mortal world from desperate peril, the gods decide to intervene and invest in an unlikely champion brave enough to challenge the evil king--even if it may cost him everything. 2 hours 30 minutes. This movie will be shown in Chinese with English subtitles.
2:30 p.m.: Little VEX Innovators with Infinite Robotics Inc. (Grades K–3) - This program engages kids in hands-on building and coding with VEX IQ robotics, making it perfect for curious elementary students eager to explore the world of robotics!
Monday, December 15
10:00 a.m.: Teens: Take & Make: Snowman Candy Jar - Get crafty and cozy this winter with our Snowman Candy Jar workshop! You will transform ordinary mason jars into adorable snowmen using paint, felt, buttons, and other fun decorations. Perfect as a festive holiday gift or a sweet treat holder, this hands-on project is great for showing off creativity and getting into the winter spirit!
2:00 p.m.: HYBRID: The Holiday Season Around the World with Mary Maguire - “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!” Travel the globe to explore winter’s unique traditions -from gondola parades in Venice to Denmark’s Krampus Race and Italy’s Bafana. Discover the origins of beloved classics like “ The Nutcracker ” and “Silent Night”, enjoy festive treats like Glühwein and Lebkuchen, and admire the glow of Menorahs and Christmas markets worldwide.
Tuesday, December 16
9:30 a.m.: Adult Walking Club (Weather Permitting) - All levels, all abilities are welcome. Join us for a 45 minute walk around the neighborhood. It’s an opportunity to get some exercise, meet new people, spend time with a friend and enjoy some conversation. Meet us in front of the library. Participants must wear sneakers and bring a bottle of water.
10:30 a.m.: Mandarin Bilingual Story Time (Ages 18 Months - 5 Years ) - Join us for a 30-minute program that consists of nursery rhymes, puppets, songs, stories, and
movements in English and Mandarin Chinese. Does not require a Mandarin background.
11:00 a.m.: VIRTUAL : Guided Meditation for Self-Healing with Patricia Anderson - Join Pat for one or all of the meditation sessions to bring harmony and balance into your life. Learn the beautiful practice of Jin Shin Jyutsu to help your body heal and keep you relaxed.
2:00 p.m.: VIRTUAL : Irving Berlin: America’s Iconic Songwriter with Stephen Nachamie - From immigrant to America’s songwriter -- Irving Berlin’s life and story are celebrated in this lecture. Mr. Nachamie goes behind the scenes with Annie Get Your Gun, White Christmas, As Thousands Cheer, and more.
6:30 p.m.: Bond with Your Teen: Holiday Hustle: Parent-Teen Wrap Wars - Who’s the ultimate gift Wrap champ -- you or your teen? Join us for a festive evening of fun, friendly competition, holiday music, and sweet treats! Put your gift-wrapping skills to the test and see who reigns supreme -- parent or teen.Please bring 5 unwrapped gifts to participate in the challenge.
Wednesday, December 17
2:30 p.m.: Mini Masters: Brushes of Color with Vincent Van Gogh (Ages 3 to 5 Years) - Three to five-year-olds and their caregivers will have fun exploring famous artworks and making their own art in this program designed especially to support early childhood learning.
6:30 p.m.: VIRTUAL : Creative Writing with Sandy Kassimi rDo you like to write but don't know where to begin? You can write on any topic and genre. It can be a short story, poetry, fairy tale, a reflective memoir, fiction or non-fiction. There are no limitations. Through both writing and reading we hope you will be inspired.
Thursday, December 18
10:30 a.m.: Songs for Baby ’ s Day (Ages Birth to 30 Months)Come and enjoy this literacy building, fun, and educational musical storytime!
1:00 p.m.: HYBRID : The Passionate Reader: “ Memorial Days ” by Geraldine Brooks - A spare and profoundly moving memoir that joins the classics of the genre, “ Memorial Days ” is a portrait of a larger-than-life man and a timeless love between souls that exquisitely captures the joy, agony, and mystery of life. A heartrending and beautiful memoir of sudden loss and a journey to peace, from the bestselling, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “ Horse ”
6:30 p.m.: Teens: Intro to Acrylic Art - Celebrate the magic of winter with a fun acrylic painting program on canvas! You ’ ll learn all about color temperature, blending techniques and creative painting tips to bring your artwork to life. No experience needed-everyone is welcome! By the end, you'll walk away with your very own hand-painted winter-themed masterpiece.
7:00 p.m.: How to Use Smart Phones with Michael Bartolomeo - Whether you're just getting started or want a refresher, this hands-on session will cover the essentials of using your smartphone, including navigation, apps, settings, and everyday tips.
7:00 p.m.: Books Before Bedtime (Ages 4–8) - Wind down at the end of the day with Miss Liz. First, you ’ ll hear a great story, then do a craft — all before bedtime!
Friday, December 19
1:30 p.m.: Friday Flix Holiday Edition: “Little Women” (2019)In the years after the Civil War, Jo March lives in New York and makes her living as a writer, while her sister Amy studies painting in Paris. Amy has a chance encounter with Theodore, a childhood crush who proposed to Jo but was ultimately rejected. Their oldest sibling, Meg, is married to a schoolteacher, while shy sister Beth develops a devastating illness that brings the family back together. Starring Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Laura Dern, Timothée Chalamet. Rated PG. 2 hrs, 15 minutes.
Trinity School students perform community service
Trinity Lutheran students with some of the snacks.
After their Thanksgiving Feast Trinity Lutheran School's students took on an in-service project to make snack bags for the children who visit The INN, located in Hempstead, for their Thanksgiving meal. These snack bags were put together by the students and sent off with love!
Together, with your generous donations, we were able to make 500+ bags of snacks to make someone’s day sweeter!
Thank you!! And thank you to our students for working hard to make this happen.
Town offers free Holiday on Ice show
The Town of Oyster Bay will be hosting the Annual “Holiday on Ice” Show is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 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 and Mrs. Claus are scheduled to visit with children and take holiday 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 popular
ice skating program to showcase the hard work they’ve put into in training all year. Join us on December 20th as the performances are sure to dazzle all those in attendance!”
In the spirit of “the season of giving,” attendees are invited 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 attend-
ees 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. Please visit www.oysterbaytown. com for more information or call (516) 797-4121.
The students put together over 500 bags of snacks for children who visit The INN.
