October 15, 2025 Massapequa by Long Island Media Group

South Bay's Neighbor

The Michele & Mark Goodman Team

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attorney & I knew that we wanted

and Mark to ﬁnd a buyer for our home and quickly! That was a good decision!! They found a buyer within a few weeks & negotiated a price of $82,000 higher than our asking. We have already recommended this team to clients and will highly recommend them to friends & family. They are true professionals!!” ... Arnie & Resa Hauptman YOUR ARE OUR #1

Homeownership is a dream for millions of people across the globe. The National Association of Realtors indicates real estate has historially exhibited long-term, stable growth in value. Money spent on rent is money that a person will never see again. However, paying a traditional mortgage every month enables homeowners to build equity and can be a means to securing one’s ﬁnancial future.

Homeowners typically can lean on the value of their homes should they need money for improvement projects or other plans. Reverse mortgages are one way to do just that.

Who

is eligible for a

reverse mortgage?

People near retirement age are eligible for a speciﬁc type of loan they can borrow against. Known as a “reverse mortgage,” this type of loan can be great for people 62 or older who perhaps can no longer make payments on their home, or require a sum of money to use right now, without wanting to sell their home.

In addition to meeting the age requirement, a borrower must live at the property as a primary residence and certify occupancy annually to be eligible for a reverse mortgage. Also, the property must be maintained in the same condition as when the

reverse mortgage was obtained, says Fannie Mae.

How does a reverse mortgage work?

The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau says a reverse mortgage, commonly a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, which is the most popular type of reverse mortgage loan, is different from a traditional mortgage. Instead of making monthly payments to bring down the amount owed on the loan, a reverse mortgage features no monthly payments. Rather, interest and fees are added to the loan balance each month and the balance grows. The loan is repaid when

Assemblyman Durso To Hold Blood Drive Event

New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park), in coordination with the New York Blood Center and the Long Island Republican Assembly delegation, will be holding a blood drive event at the Massapequa Donor Center located at 1050 Sunrise Highway in Massapequa from Tuesday, October 21 through Sunday, October 26, 2025

This event is in honor of Madeline Norton, who at just 6 months old, was diagnosed with PKAN, a rare disease that robs children of their motor functions, speech, and eventually their ability to walk, eat, and live independently. Currently, there is no cure.

Madeline’s Mission, a social media and fundraising campaign, was started by Madeline’s parents and Massapequa residents, Gerard Norton, a Rockville Centre Police Officer, and

his wife Kaitlin, to raise awareness and support PKAN life-saving research.

The Norton’s are not giving up hope but choosing to fight by getting the word out to give their child, and all children like Madeline, the best life possible.

“I encourage anyone who can donate to roll up their sleeve in honor of

Madeline and to support those in need of life-saving blood transfusions,” said Assemblyman Durso.

To schedule an appointment, please visit New York Blood Center’s website at www.nybc. org/madeline or call 1-800-933-BLOOD (2566). Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred.

Common Questions About Reverse Mortgages

the borrower no longer lives in the home.

What else should I know?

With a reverse mortgage, even though borrowers are not making monthly mortgage payments, they are still responsible for paying propertyrelated expenses on time, including, real estate and property taxes, insurance premiums, HOA fees, and utilities. Reverse mortgages also come with additional costs, including origination fees and mortgage insurance up to 2.5 percent of the home’s appraised value, says Forbes. It’s important to note that most interest rates on these loans are

variable, meaning they can rise over time and thus increase the cost of borrowing. In addition, unlike traditional mortgage payments, interest payments on reverse mortgages aren’t tax-deductible.

How is a reverse mortgage paid back?

A reverse mortgage is not free money. The homeowners or their heirs will eventually have to pay back the loan when the borrowers no longer live at the property. This is usually achieved by selling the home.

The CFPB notes if a reverse mortgage loan balance is less than the amount the home is sold for, then the borrower

keeps the difference. If the loan balance is more than the amount the home sells for at the appraised value, one can pay off the loan by selling the home for at least 95 percent of the home’s appraised value, known as the 95 percent rule. The money from the sale will go toward the outstanding loan balance and any remaining balance on the loan is paid for by mortgage insurance, which the borrower has been paying for the duration of the loan.

Reverse mortgages can be a consideration for older adults. However, it is essential to get all of the facts to make an informed decision.

Thephrase “bigger is better” has endured for quite some time. Though it may be impossible to pinpoint precisely who coined the phrase, its lesson that larger things tend to be more valuable than smaller alternatives is applicable in numerous situations. No adage applies to every situation, and in some instances, people may ﬁnd that bigger is not better.

Downsizing is an approach many individuals consider after turning 50. Parents who are empty nesters and others nearing retirement may wonder if the time is right to downsize from their current homes. Though that’s a strategy millions of people have

adopted over time, the decision is not always so simple. Individuals over 50 who are trying to determine if downsizing is right for them can consider a host of factors before making a decision.

• Monthly housing expenses: Before downsizing their homes, individuals should determine just how much they’re currently spending on housing. Individuals who have ﬁxed-rate mortgages likely know the amount of their monthly mortgage payment, but what about maintenance? Home maintenance expenses ﬂuctuate, but a careful examination of the previous 12

months’ expenditures can give homeowners an idea of just how much they’re spending to maintain their properties. The number may be eye-opening, as Thumbtack’s “Home Care Price Index” released in the third quarter of 2024 revealed that the average annual cost to maintain a single-family home reached an alltime high of $10,433. If such expenses are preventing

homeowners from building their retirement nest eggs, then it might be time to seek alternative housing.

• Real estate prices: Real estate prices have skyrocketed in recent years, which can be both good and bad for current homeowners considering downsizing. Many people who downsize look to move from a single-family home into a condominium, where

maintenance tasks are typically handled by a homeowners’ association (HOA). Such communities typically charge HOA fees, which can be minimal or considerable. In addition, the price of condominiums has risen in recent years, with the lender New American Funding reporting in early 2024 that the median sale price of a condo reached $341,000. So homeowners who want to downsize their homes may end up taking most of the proﬁt from selling their current properties and reinvesting it in a costly condo. Some may deem that worthwhile, while others may

ﬁnd the cost savings of downsizing in the current market are negligible.

• Emotional attachment: Downsizing may be considered with cost savings in mind, but it’s important to consider your emotional attachment to your current home. Many homeowners over 50 raised their families in their current homes, and letting go of a property where so many memories were made can be difﬁcult. Homeowners who are not prepared to move on from properties that are meaningful to them and their families can consider additional ways to downsize their ﬁnancial obligations.

Realestate has long been touted as a worthy long-term investment. With that conventional wisdom in mind, young adults often make buying a home one of their ﬁrst bigticket purchases. Though real estate remains a potentially lucrative investment, the market for homes has been difﬁcult to navigate for several years running.

High mortgage interest rates and low inventory have left many buyers feeling priced out of the real estate market. Others may ﬁnd the competitive nature of the modern real estate market too stressful. No one can predict if or when the real estate market might be less

How To Navigate A Challenging Real Estate Market

challenging, but the following are some ways those looking for a house can navigate that process.

• Ready your finances. It goes without saying that prospective buyers must get their financial affairs in order before they begin shopping for a house. But finding a home in the current market takes time, and some buyers might have let their mortgage preapproval letter expire without realizing it. Others might have experienced a dip in their credit rating as they turned to credit cards to confront inflation. That means buyers who began looking for a home

months or even years ago might not be positioned to buy now, should they ﬁnd a home to their liking. Revisit your ﬁnances if it’s been a while. Pay off any consumer debt that has accumulated in recent months and reapply for mortgage preapproval if necessary.

• Be ready to pounce. Data from the National Association of Realtors

found that the average home spent 32 days on the market before being sold in November of 2024, which was a full week longer than a year earlier. That’s good news for buyers, but it still means buyers must be ready to pounce if they ﬁnd a home and a home price to their liking.

• Hire a real estate agent. The hectic pace

Oyster Festival Returns

of the modern real estate market can be difﬁcult for anyone to keep up with. But real estate agents keep up with the market for a living, and they can be invaluable resources for buyers whose commitments to work and family are making it difﬁcult to keep pace.

• Emphasize long-term growth and value when assessing properties. According to Zillow, the median list price of homes in the United States was just under $387,000 by the end of January 2025. But buyers must also recognize that 22.4 percent of homes sold above list price in that month, according to a Redﬁn

analysis of MLS data and/or public records. Buying a home is more than an investment in a property. It’s also, in some way, an investment in the town where the home is located and in a homeowner’s future. So while it can be tempting to buy a home with the lowest asking price, homebuyers should also seek homes that ﬁgure to experience the best long-term growth in value. Homes situated in safe and welcoming towns with good schools are arguably a better investment than homes with lower sticker prices but no such amenities.

East Coast’s Largest Waterfront Family Festival Comes To Oyster Bay Hamlet

The East Coast’s largest waterfront festival will return this fall to the streets of Oyster Bay. Supervisor Joseph Saladino, his colleagues on the Town Board and organizers and sponsors of the 42nd Oyster Fest announced the return of the iconic seaside festival this October 18th and 19th. Supervisor Saladino, together with Councilman Lou Imbroto, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Receiver Jeff Pravato; Oyster Fest partner the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Chamber of Commerce and several sponsors made the announcement along the waterfront at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park.

“The Oyster Fest showcases our beautiful Town and historic sites in Oyster Bay while helping to raise charitable funds for local non-profit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club. So

when you’re eating an oyster from our waterways, drinking a beverage from the local brewing company, or shopping in our downtown, you can feel especially good knowing that a portion of your dollars supports local charities,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We’re also putting the local oyster back in Oyster Fest, and we are thrilled that over a dozen Long Island oyster farmers are participating in this year’s festival.”

In addition to delicious food vendors, various merchandise exhibits, amusement rides and a waterfront family fun zone, this year’s Oyster Festival will once again take part in the Town’s shell recycling program, through which the Town collects shells from local partners to strengthen the marine ecosystem. Anyone interested in volunteering

to take part in the shellfish recycling efforts during Oyster Fest can contact the Town’s Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5752 or email Environmental@ oysterbay-ny.gov.

The Oyster Festival is the East Coast’s largest waterfront festival and attracts up to 200,000 people from all over the tristate area to Oyster

Bay hamlet for this iconic event. This year’s event is presented by Catholic Health and powered by optimum and Sands. For more information on this year’s Oyster Fest, taking

place on the streets of Oyster Bay and throughout Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park on Saturday and Sunday, October 18th and 19th, visit www. theoysterfest.org.

Job Fair For Differently Abled Job Seekers

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board announced that the Town will host the 2025 Talent Connection Job Expo, a unique event designed to unite Long Island’s employers with differentlyabled job seekers. This event will take place on Thursday, October 16th, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage.

“The 2025 Talent Connection Job Expo aims to provide an inclusive platform where differentlyabled individuals can connect with recruiters

from various industries, explore employment opportunities that match their skills and abilities, and engage with potential employers in a supportive environment,” Supervisor Saladino said. “We believe that every individual, regardless of ability, has something unique to offer. This job expo is about unlocking those possibilities and creating pathways to success.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with recruiters representing several industries, ensuring a diverse range of job opportunities.

Whether seeking a new career path or looking

to take the next step in your professional journey, this Expo is designed to help all differently-abled individuals succeed. Organizations partnering with the Town to make this event possible include: FREE (Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc.), ACLD, The Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing, & Consumer Affairs, and Acces Vocational Rehabilitation.

For more information about the 2025 Talent Connection Job Expo, please contact Anita Dowd at adowd@familyres. org or Jeanie Shelton at sheltonj@acld.org.

Town Of Oyster Bay Appoints Law Enforcement Veteran

John Wighaus

As Inspector General

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board are proud to announce the appointment of John Wighaus as Inspector General. A highly decorated, third-generation law enforcement professional, Wighaus brings more than three decades of investigative and leadership experience to his new role, where he will oversee integrity, accountability, and efficiency across town operations.

“John Wighaus has dedicated his life to public service and integrity in law enforcement,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “His wealth of experience and unshakable commitment to accountability make him the ideal choice to serve as Inspector General and ensure taxpayer dollars are protected.”

Wighaus recently retired from the Nassau County Police Department following 30 years of distinguished service. He

began his law enforcement career in 1989 with the New York City Transit Police before joining Nassau County, where he was assigned to the Fifth Precinct and later promoted to Detective. His career includes extensive experience in the Narcotics/Vice Bureau, DEA Task Force, Special Investigations Squad, and the Asset Forfeiture & Intelligence Unit.

Throughout his tenure, Wighaus received numerous honors, including:

• Fifth Precinct Cop of the Year

How To Boost Home Value Before Selling

People considering buying or selling a home are facing a unique market. The real estate market has been in ﬂux for several years, and high interest rates have made it more expensive to borrow.

upgrading countertops and changing ﬁxtures or hardware to give the room an overhaul.

• PBA Cop of the Month (2x)

• Detective of the Month (3x)

• 2013 Commissioner’s Award for Excellence in Policing

• 2014 United States Attorney’s Award

• 2019 U.S. Secretary of Labor Award

• 2022 Nassau County Police Veterans Man of the Year

• 2022 Law Enforcement Man of the Year

Beyond his police work, Wighaus held key leadership roles in police advocacy. He was elected President of the Detectives Association Inc. (DAI) in 2017, leading efforts to protect and advance the rights of detectives in Nassau County. He also served as Recording Secretary for the State Association of PBAs and as a member of the National Association of Police Organizations, advocating for law enforcement at both state and federal levels.

The Mortgage Bankers Association is projecting that 30-year mortgage rates will level out to 6.5 percent for the forseeable future. That means that people who have been waiting for changes in the real estate market could be disappointed, and hesitant buyers may ﬁnally just bite the bullet and buy even if mortgage rates are not where they hoped they’d be in 2025. Homeowners with properties they are considering listing for sale would be wise to make certain changes that will help garner the best prices from buyers. Make kitchen and bath improvements

The kitchen is the heart of many homes. Real estate agents may recommend that homeowners make minor to moderate kitchen upgrades like resurfacing cabinets,

Homeowners also should look to bathroom updates as smart investments that can improve home value.

Katie Severance, author of The Brilliant Home Buyer, characterizes kitchens and baths as “money rooms” that add the most value to a home.

Declutter the home

Homeowners should clean out items they no longer need. Decluttering can make a space feel bigger, which is beneﬁcial in a market where open concept ﬂoor plans remain popular among home buyers.

When buyers walk through a prospective home, they want to envision themselves living there, something that is more easily done if the home isn’t overrun with the current homeowner’s belongings.

Get to painting

Painting a home is a cost-effective renovation

with a lot of oomph. Freshly painted rooms appear clean and updated, says HGTV, and that can appeal to buyers. Homeowners should choose neutral colors to accommodate the widest array of potential buyers.

Improve the landscaping

The exterior of a home is the ﬁrst thing potential buyers will see as they roll up to view a property or look at a listing online. Homeowners should start by evaluating and enhancing the landscaping. Ensure the lawn is well-maintained and add plants that provide color without a lot of maintenance.

Expand usable space

Homeowners can think about adding to the usable space in a home. This translates into ﬁnishing basements or attics or even converting garages to rooms. Or it may involve adding a threeseason room.

Homeowners can consider a number of improvements to increase the resale value of their properties.

A Guide To Mortgage Interest Rates

Buying a home is the most expensive purchase many people make in their lifetime. Some people do it only once, while others are in the market with greater frequency. In any instance when the home-buying process involves securing a mortgage, buyers can beneﬁt from knowing a thing or two about mortgage interest rates.

A mortgage interest rate can help buyers determine if a given home is affordable or beyond their budget.

Rocket Mortgage says mortgage interest rates can have a major impact on long-term costs, so it is imperative to seek the lowest rates possible. However, an assortment of economic variables affect mortgage interest rates, and conditions unique to each buyer also can affect the rate they’re eligible to obtain.

Understanding home loan rates can help potential buyers better navigate the complex process of buying a home.

What is mortgage interest?

When a person buys a home with a mortgage, he or she doesn’t just pay back the amount borrowed, which is called the principal. The loan also requires paying interest, which is essentially the cost of borrowing money. Mortgage interest is calculated as a percentage of the remaining principal, says Investopedia.

How are mortgage rates set?

Mortgage rates are not determined by a single variable. They are derived from a combination of factors that include the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, economic conditions, and a borrower’s personal financial situation. The Federal Reserve (in the United States) influences the overall rates by adjusting the federal funds rate, or the rate at which banks lend to each other overnight. This not only impacts mortgage rates, but also additional interest rates, according to Fannie Mae. Lenders will ultimately decide on the specific rates to offer borrowers.

How does a borrower’s ﬁnancial situation affect mortgage rates?

Lenders will conduct a thorough assessment of a potential borrower’s creditworthiness. They will look at, among other things, a borrower’s credit score and debt-to-income ratio. A higher credit score typically results in a lower interest rate. A lower DTI indicates a lower risk to the lender, also potentially resulting in a lower interest rate. Squaring away ﬁnances well in advance of applying for a mortgage can help home buyers secure lower interest rates that could save them considerable sums of money over the life of their mortgages. How do loan types affect mortgage interest?

A home buyer will pay interest no matter

the mortgage type, but there are options to select a ﬁxed or adjustable interest rate, or even an interest-only mortgage.

According to Bankrate, with a ﬁxed-rate mortgage, the interest rate remains the same throughout the life of the loan, meaning the payment for principal and interest will remain consistent. Additional charges that are wrapped into mortgage payments could change, however. Property taxes and homeowners’ insurance charges could increase, for example. Fixed rates tend to be lower when the term of the mortgage is shorter, so borrowers can opt for a 20-year mortgage over a 30-year to save some money on interest.

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) will see the interest rate change during the repayment period. It may start with a low introductory rate for the ﬁrst several years of the loan, but then it can go up or down depending on market indexes and benchmarks. Many lenders put a cap on how high the interest rate can go, however. Various factors determine mortgage interest rates for home buyers, including market conditions, credit standing, federal rates, the type of loan, and term length.

Saladino Invites Residents To Enter Lottery For Free Holiday Concert Tickets

Apply By October 24th To Attend Popular Holiday Concert At Tilles Center At LIU Post

With the holiday season fast approaching, Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board invite residents to enter a ticket lottery for this year’s Town Holiday Concerts, being held on November 24th andA 25th at the Tilles Center at LIU Post in Brookville.

“There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than with the Town of Oyster Bay’s Holiday Concert Extravaganza. From music to dancing, this amazing performance brings out the holiday cheer in all who experience it,” Supervisor Saladino said. “Due to its overwhelming popularity, the Town hosts a ticket

lottery to ensure all residents have an equal opportunity to attend one of our wonderful performances. And, as always, this outstanding holiday entertainment is provided free of charge for our residents.”

This year’s Holiday Concerts are scheduled for two evenings: Monday, November 24th and Tuesday, November 25th at 7:30pm; as well as a matinee performance on Tuesday, November 25th at 2pm. Applications are available on the Town’s website, www. oysterbaytown.com, or can be received by calling (516) 797-7925. Completed lottery

applications can be dropped off at the following locations:

• Oyster Bay Town Hall North, Town Clerk’s Office, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay

• Oyster Bay Town Hall South, South Entrance, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa

Residents may receive up to two tickets per household. All entries must be received by Friday, October 24th at 4:45pm. Residents selected will receive their tickets in the mail the week of November 10th. Ticket distribution will be based on availability. For more information, visit www.oysterbaytown.com or call (516) 797-7925.

Volunteers Invited To Fall Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup

Fun Environmental Initiative & Student

Volunteer Opportunity

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Laura Maier invite residents to participate in the fall Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup, scheduled for Saturday, October 25th at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay near the gazebo. Hosted in partnership with Friends of the Bay, this event offers volunteers – individuals, families, companies and organizations – an opportunity to give back to the environment by removing litter and debris from the shoreline. Certificates are available upon request for students seeking to fulfill volunteer requirements.

“This is a great opportunity to roll up your sleeves, protect our

environment, and have fun while learning more about our local marine life,” said Supervisor Saladino.

Volunteers are invited to participate in the cleanup, which will run from 9am to 12pm.

“Each year, we find paper, food, plastics and other trash discarded on beaches or dumped overboard from boaters,” said Councilwoman Maier. “Allowing this litter to remain on our shorelines will only lead to increasingly worse damage for the environment. We thank all of our volunteers for their assistance in this great event!”

Individuals and groups who are interested in registering for this environmental cleanup should contact the Town’s Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ volunteer

The central meeting place will be Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park launching ramps and waterfront gazebo off of Larrabee Avenue in Oyster Bay. Additional cleanup locations include Stehli Beach in Bayville and Centre Island Beach in Bayville, however, all volunteers should check in at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park. Typically, in year’s past, harbor and beach clean-up events have resulted in 40,000lbs of debris being collected by volunteers and town workers.

Entree:

• Chicken Marsala

• Chicken Francese

• Eggplant Parmigiana

• Chicken Parmigiana

• Shrimp Oreganata

Sausage & Peppers • Chicken

Sundried Tomatoes & Broccoli • Eggplant Rollatine • Shrimp Parmigiana

Free Family Fall & Halloween Festival

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino invites residents and their families to the Town of Oyster Bay’s Family Fall & Halloween Festival, which will be held on Saturday, October 25th, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Marjorie R. Post Community Park, located at 451 Unqua Road in Massapequa.

“This festival is a great opportunity for residents to celebrate Halloween and the fall season with activities

that are fun for residents of all ages,” Supervisor Saladino said. “Families are sure to enjoy all that the festival has to offer, including pumpkin picking and our popular Halloween hayride. Remember, costumes are encouraged!”

The Family Fall & Halloween Festival will feature a ‘U-Pick’ pumpkin patch for children to pick their own pumpkins (while supplies last), Halloween games and giveaways,

inflatables, hayride, and food trucks, as well as a special character appearances presented by Royal Events Princess Parties. Costumes for those attending are encouraged!

The Family Fall & Halloween Festival will be held rain or shine. For more information, please call the Town’s Department of Community and Youth Services at (516) 797-7925 or visit oysterbaytown.com.

Free Mega Job Fair In Bethpage

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and The Workforce Partnership announced that a Mega Job Fair will take place on Thursday, October 23rd, at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue in Bethpage. There is no charge for admission and parking is free. Doors open at 10am, and the event runs until 1pm.

Employers from across Long Island will be seeking candidates for positions including entry and middle management level, licensed professional, hospitality

and food service industries, banking, staffing and individuals with technical and IT experience.

“We’re proud to have helped thousands of residents find meaningful employment through our career center and private sector jobs fair,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The Workforce Partnership and Town of Oyster Bay are committed to helping residents find meaningful employment opportunities as well as assisting local businesses in recruiting qualified employees. This Mega Job Fair will connect

private and public sector employers with job seekers.”

The Town of Oyster Bay serves as administrator of The Workforce Partnership, a consortium of local governments funded by the Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act that provides free valuable resources to both employers and job seekers at Career Centers in Hicksville and Massapequa. These centers help train employees to meet the needs of the private sector, connecting qualified job seekers with employers, and by assisting applicants in accessing job opportunities. The Centers offer Resource Rooms, which are equipped with state-of-the-art computer workstations, complete with Microsoft software and internet access. Additionally, these Centers offer residents access to job listings, resource materials, photocopiers, fax machines and telephones. The Centers provide employability and computer workshops, as well as career counselors who will guide residents through their job search. Computer workshops are taught on-site in modern computer labs. Residents can increase their marketability by updating or acquiring new computer skills at the Centers.

Expenses To Expect Upon Buying A Home

Homeownership is often characterized as a fulfillment of a dream. Indeed, many homeowners feel their ability to buy a home is a reflection of their discipline and commitment to saving money. That discipline and dedication can set homeowners up for long-term financial health, providing a unique sense of security along the way. First-time home buyers may not know what to expect upon buying a home, and since each home is unique, it’s impossible for even long-time homeowners to say with certainty exactly how things will unfold once those new to home ownership get the keys to their first house. Various expenses might be the only common variable when it comes to homeownership, and some of those expenses may surprise first-time buyers. With that in mind, the following are some expenses first-time buyers can expect once their offers are accepted.

$400,000 home. But many home buyers now submit down payments considerably less than 20 percent, particularly in the modern real estate market, which is characterized by high prices and low inventory. The lower the down payment, the higher your monthly mortgage payment will be, so it’s best to save as much as possible toward a down payment.

5 percent of the loan principal. Closing costs must be paid no later than when the sale becomes ofﬁcial and buyers sign on the (many) dotted lines. Application and credit fees, title fees, underwriting fees, appraisal fees, and transfer tax are among the various fees that fall under the umbrella of closing costs.

For information about this program and other great services the Town’s Workforce Partnership program offers, contact 516-797-4560 or email business@oysterbay-ny.gov.

• Down payment: Conventional wisdom long suggested home buyers should submit a down payment of at least 20 percent of the overall purchase price upon buying a home. Buyers who want to follow that advice would need a down payment of $80,000 when buying a

• Primary mortgage insurance (PMI): Buyers who cannot come up with a down payment of 20 percent or more will have to pay for primary mortgage insurance, which is typically a set fee that is incorporated into the mortgage payment each month. PMI fees are typically waived once the balance on the mortgage reaches 79 percent or less of the purchase price, though some lenders may waive PMI prior to that if the value of the home increases considerably before the loan balance reaches the predetermined marker.

• Closing costs: The amount of closing costs varies widely depending on a host of variables, but Bankrate. com notes it’s not uncommon for these costs to come in at somewhere between 2 and

• Moving: It’s also important that ﬁrst-time home buyers budget for moving costs. Moving costs vary and may depend on how much buyers already own and how far they’re moving. The home renovation experts at Angi estimate that local moves typically cost somewhere between $883 and $2,568, while long-distance moves may run buyers anywhere from $2,700 to $10,000 or more. These costs are some of the upfront fees aspiring homeowners can expect when buying a home. Longterm costs, including homeowners’ insurance (which is separate from PMI), property taxes, homeowners’ association fees, and maintenance are some additional expenses buyers can plan for as they try to determine their home buying budgets.

Free Musical Performances At Local Libraries For October And November

Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand announced that the Distinguished Artists Concert Series will return this October with free performances at local libraries throughout the Town.

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

Scheduled performances for October and November include:

Did You Know?

• Just Sixties on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Hicksville Public Library – A multimedia retrospective of the 1960’s with sing-a-longs and trivia questions.

• Gino Di Napoli on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Bethpage Public Library – Gino sings “O Sole Mio,” “Quando, Quando, Quando,” “My Way,” and many, many more!

• Tom Pappas & The Gavrieli Trio on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Massapequa Public Library –Performing American standards and jazz.

• Gene Casey & The Lone Sharks on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the Syosset Public Library – Local country, rockabilly legend Gene Casey and his musical entourage present a show of favorites and originals. Open to all. Free tickets required. Registration begins Oct. 22nd. Visit: https:// syosset.librarycalendar. com/events/month and select the date of the concert and register.

• Savannah Sky on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Bethpage Public Library – Playing the best of classic country, western swing, folk-rock, and so much more!

• The Golden Tone Orchestra on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Farmingdale Public Library – 18 musicians who have been playing jazz and swing standards for more than six decades.

Woodcould be having a moment among modern home buyers. According to the real estate experts at Zillow, the term “cozy” appeared in 35 percent more real estate listings in 2024 than in 2023. Though various components can help to create a cozy vibe inside a home, wood has long been a go-to material when interior designers attempt to add warmth to a property. The home renovation experts at Houzz also cite wood-infused architectural warmth among its 10 most popular home trends in the coming year. Homeowners who want to capitalize on this trend before putting their homes on the market or those who simply love the idea of adding more wood-based warmth in their homes can consider installing ceiling beams, wood wall paneling or even wood trim throughout their homes.

OCTOBER HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 15th

7:00PM-9:00PM

THE DEVIL IN NEW YORKTHE WITCHCRAFT TRIAL OF GOODY GARLICK

The Historical Society of Islip Hamlet will host Tara Rider and her presentation "The Devil in New York - The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick". The program will be held at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Ave. Free and open to the public. For more information on this, their 2026 Holiday House Tour or to become a member, visit www. isliphamlethistory.org, or call 631559-2915

FRIDAY, OCT. 17th

SATURDAY, OCT. 18th

6:00PM-9:00PM

SPOOKTACTULAR

Enjoy eerie animal presentations, a ghostly graveyard, creepy games, scary music, and spooky night trails. Great for ghouls 7 years and up. Food Truck refreshments available for purchase! 10/17 Box Car Burgers, 10/18 Krazy Knish. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344

SATURDAY, OCT. 18th

9:00AM-5:00PM

PARROT EXPO

Sayville VFW POST 433 400 Lakeland Avenue in Sayville. Long Island’s only major exotic bird event boasts a full day of shopping, rafﬂes, fun and education for pet bird lovers! For more information, please call 631-957-1100

HOLIDAYS

13th - COLUMBUS DAY

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY 31st - HALLOWEEN

MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

10:00AM-3:00PM

ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH

THRIFT SHOP / YARD SALE

(Rain or Shine) Thrift Shop Special Event “Pack A Bag” ($5.00) many new items in all categories, Rent A Table - $25.00. 305 Carll’s Path in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-7530

10:00AM-4:00PM

HARVEST CRAFT FESTIVAL & YARD SALE

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2025 Washington Avenue in Seaford. Local craft vendors, Congregational Yard Sale, pumpkin patch, painting, mums for sale, rafﬂes, music & much more. For more information, please call 516-781-6374, ofﬁce@ ourredeemerlutheran.church

10:00AM-8:00PM

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

All are welcome! Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-2268690, gumc.lindy@gmail.com

2:00PM

HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN DAY

The annual Halloween Family Fun Day held in Lindenshurst features face painting, games, hay rides, pony rides, hot cocoa and more. This event is co-chaired by the Village of Lindenhurst, Mayor's Beautiﬁcation Society, Rotary Club of Lindenhurst, Lindenhurst Fire Department, and the Lindenhurst Moose Club. Rain date: October 19. For more information, please call 631-957-7500

7:00PM-11:00PM

HARVEST MOON DANCE

The Knights of Columbus #11968 will be holding a Harvest Moon Dance at Our Lady of Grace Church, Father Shanahan Hall located at 666 Albin Ave. in West Babylon. For more information, please call Rob 631-7470147 or Dave 631- 357-0188.

SUNDAY, OCT. 19th

1:00PM-5:00PM

WADE BURNS VFW 7279

PSYCHIC ENLIGHTENING

Admission: $55.00 includes Psychic Christopher Allen, light lunch, beer, wine, soda and cake. Wade Burns VFW 7279 560N. Delaware Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please contact 631-965- 6459

FRIDAY, OCT. 24th

DOORS OPEN 6:00PM BINGO STARTS 7:00PM WEST ISLIP FIRE DEPT LADIES AUX MUSIC BINGO FUND RAISER

West Islip Fire Dept. 309 Union Blvd West in Islip. Tickets $20 extra cards for sale, 50/50, Lotto board. Rafﬂe baskets. for more information and for tickets, please call 516-318-530. Light food for purchase. Donate a non perishable item for a ticket to a special rafﬂe

6:30PM-8:00PM

HAUNTED HIKES

Garden City Bird Sanctuary, 182 Tanners Pond Rd. in Garden City. Long Islands favorite family Haunted Hike is back. With both Scary and not so scary walks (on separate trails) a maze and some fun photo opportunities. For more information, please visit https:// thegcbs.org/gcbs-home

Saladino Announces Free Mega Job Fair In Bethpage

Employers from across Long Island will be seeking candidates for positions including entry and middle management level, licensed professional, hospitality and food service industries, banking, staffing and individuals with technical and IT experience.

“We’re proud to have helped thousands of residents find meaningful employment through our career center and private sector jobs fair,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The

Workforce Partnership and Town of Oyster Bay are committed to helping residents find meaningful employment opportunities as well as assisting local businesses in recruiting qualified employees. This Mega Job Fair will connect private and public sector employers with job seekers.”

which are equipped with state-of-the-art computer workstations, complete with Microsoft software and internet access. Additionally, these Centers offer residents access to job listings, resource materials, photocopiers, fax machines and telephones. The Centers provide employability and computer workshops, as well as career counselors who will guide residents through their job search. Computer workshops are taught on-site in modern computer labs. Residents can increase their marketability by updating or acquiring new computer skills at the Centers. For more information about this program and the many other great services that the Town’s Workforce Partnership program offers, contact (516) 797-4560 or email business@oysterbayny.gov.

Receiver Pravato Announces 40-Day Penalty Free Period To Pay School Property Taxes

Oyster Bay Town Receiver of Taxes, Jeffrey P. Pravato, reminds residents that the First Half of the 2025-2026 School Tax Levy that was due on October 1st, can be paid without penalty through November 10th.

“New York State Law allows my office to provide taxpayers with a 40-day penalty free period from the date the tax is due during which payment may be made without penalty,” Receiver Pravato explained. “After the 40 days, State Law requires a one percent penalty is added for each month the tax remains unpaid, retroactive to October 1st. Don’t delay, make your payment before November 10th and ensure you aren’t paying more out of pocket than you need to.”

The Tax Office is open in both Town Hall North, 74 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa, daily from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm to assist residents and accept payments with a check, cash or debit/ credit card (for a fee). Outdoor walkup windows are also available to accept payments with a check. On November 7th and 10th both offices will be open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. When paying in person, residents are reminded to bring the entire tax bill.

payments must have a United States Postal Service postmark dated on or before November 10th.

Taxpayers also have access to the 2025-2026 School Tax information on our online system via a link on the Town website, www.oysterbaytown. com. Residents may view current tax bills, print out a hard copy, or pay taxes with an ACH check payment for a service fee of $1.75, or by debit/

credit card for a much higher fee charged by the credit card companies. The Town of Oyster Bay receives no portion of this fee.

Receiver Pravato reminds residents that school budgets are set by their local school districts, and the Town of Oyster Bay is not involved in that process. Any questions related to School Tax rates

Continued On 23

Residents who prefer to mail in their payments should send them to the Office of the Receiver of Taxes, 74 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, N.Y. 117711539. Please be certain to sign your check, and make it payable to Jeffrey P. Pravato, Receiver of Taxes. Indicate your property’s school district code, section, block, lot and phone number on the check. All mailed

Town To Collect DVDs For U.S. Troops & Children’s Hospitals

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board today announced a partnership with Massapequa-based “Big Hy for Heroes” to collect DVDs for those deployed and serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces, as well as movies for children’s hospitals.

Donations will be accepted during October and then delivered to Chaplains, Commanding Officers, Sergeant Majors, and Sergeants around the globe to distribute to troops and arrange movie nights this holiday season.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner

with Big Hy for Heroes for our Annual DVD Collection Drive and send thousands of DVDs to troops serving around the globe, as well as to children receiving care in local hospitals. Help support these brave men, women, and children by donating DVDs.”

The Big Hy for Heroes organization was founded

40-Day Penalty Free Period

the School Tax bill.

district code, section, block and lot numbers of the property in question available. This information is listed on the tax bill and on the property deed. Continued From 22

and amounts should be addressed to the resident’s school district. The telephone number for each school district is printed on the front of

To contact the Receiver of Taxes Office, please call (516) 624-6400 or email receiveroftaxes@ oysterbay-ny.gov.

Residents are requested to have the school

in 2002 by Massapequa resident and World War II veteran Hyman Strachman, who, along with his son Arthur Strachman, personally began sending DVDs to U.S. troops overseas.

Over the years, Big Hy for Heroes has shipped hundreds of thousands of DVDs worldwide and

continues to do so today. Exciting, suspenseful, comedy, and classic DVDs are among the most requested by the troops for movie nights. Children’s movies are needed for local hospitals. Residents can donate DVDs at any of the following locations through October 31st:

Town Hall North –

54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay Town Hall South –977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa

For more information on the DVD Collection Drive for U.S. Troops and local children’s hospitals, please call (516) 624-6380.

Accessing Schooling Options

(NAPSI)—Parents are more optimistic about their children’s academic, emotional, and social development and they

increasingly support school choice according to EdChoice, which wants all K–12 students to access the schooling options—

public, private, charter, homeschooling or other— best for them. Learn more at www.edchoice.org.

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F a l l i s a s e a s o n o f c h a n g e a n d t h e r e ’ s n o b e t t e r t i m e t o m a k e

y o u r s . W h e t h e r y o u ’ r e m o v i n g o u t o f s t a t e , d o w n s i z i n g , o r

l o o k i n g f o r y o u r f i r s t h o m e , I m a k e s u r e y o u r s t o r y i s t o l d

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f r o n t o f t h e r i g h t b u y e r , c r e a t i n g r e s u l t s t h a t s t a n d a p a r t f r o m

t r a d i t i o n a l m a r k e t i n g . F r o m w a t e r f r o n t e s t a t e s t o v i l l a g e g e m s ,

I ’ m h e r e t o g u i d e y o u .

L

E T ' S W O R K T O G E T H E R !

B u y i n g o r s e l l i n g a h o m e c a n b e a s t r e s s f u l p r o c e s s i f y o u d o n ' t

h a v e t h e r i g h t r e a l e s t a t e a g e n t . W i t h 1 8 + y e a r s o f e x p e r i e n c e , y o u

c a n r e l y o n m e t o g e t y o u t h e b e s t p o s s i b l e r e s u l t

P r o f e s s i o n a l p h o t o g r a p h y , v i d e o a n d a e r i a l d r o n e t o u r s

J E N N I F E R R O N Z O

T O D A Y B Y T H E B A Y ®

R E A L E S T A T E

L i c e n s e d A s s o c i a t e R e a l E s t a t e B r o k e r

S i g n a t u r e P r e m i e r P r o p e r t i e s

T a r g e t e d s o c i a l m e d i a a d s w h e r e b u y e r s a r e a c t u a l l y s e a r c h i n g

C u s t o m w e b s i t e f o r y o u r p r o p e r t y , n o t j u s t a n m l s u p l o a d

S t r a t e g i c e m a i l a n d o n l i n e c a m p a i g n s t h a t m a x i m u m e x p o s u r e

D i r e c t ( 6 3 1 ) 5 5 3 - 7 7 8 3

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