Floral Park VIllager (1/30/26)

THE GATEWAY TO NASSAU COUNTY

SERVING FLORAL PARK, BELLEROSE AND STEWART MANOR

Floral Park doctor named “Health Care Hero

Retired NYPD Sergeant dies while preparing to shovel path at OLV

Roger McGovern of Floral Park, a retired New York Police Department sergeant passed away suddenly while preparing to shovel snow on Sunday at Our Lady of Victory church during the recent snow storm.

Roger was deeply involved in the parish, where he served as an usher, and was an involved member of the

Knights of Columbus.

In his obituary, family members called him a "man of quiet service, steady presence, and deep devotion to family, faith and the community.

Roger graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes School in Queens Village, and from St. Francis Prep in 1983. He

See page 2

Long Island Business News has selected Floral Park resident Michael Ronan, MD, a pediatrician with Optum Medical Care, as a 2026 Health Care Hero.

Dr. Ronan is committed to providing exceptional pediatric care at his Long Island practice and beyond. In addition to check-ups and treatments for short-term illnesses, Dr. Ronan cares for children with long-term conditions such as obesity, ADHD and developmental delays.

Dr. Ronan also frequently volunteers his time on medical missions abroad. Since 2019, he has served as trip pediatrician on four surgical missions and one primary care mission to Ecuador and the Dominican Republic. His next mission is this year to Kenya.

In addition to practicing general pediatrics, Dr. Ronan serves as associate chief medical information officer for Optum’s New York/New Jersey region. For the past few years, he has been essential in guiding practices through the transition to electronic medical records. He travels to individual offices to train clinicians and staff so they can more easily focus on patient care while improving safety and efficiency.

Dr. Ronan is also a clinical assistant professor of Pediatrics at the Hofstra-Northwell Zucker School of Medicine where he teaches pre-clinical students. He also mentors nurse practitioner students during their clinical rotations.

Dr. Ronan was recently honored by Optum as a Distinguished Partner, and was recognized in 2025 for “Values in Action – Innovation” at their national forum in Las Vegas.

Dr. Ronan graduated from Harvard University and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and completed his residency at Children’s Hospital of New York-Presbyterian.

Dr. Ronan serves his community in many ways. He is a long-time Scout leader and current treasurer of Troop 142, also serving as a merit badge counselor for swimming, environmental science, camping and health professions. He is the Deputy Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council #2345. He served for eight years on the Parish Council for Our Lady of Victory Church, where he sings in the choir.

Dr. Ronan grew up in North Merrick and still lives in Nassau County with his wife, Patti Ann, and son, Connor, who is currently a junior in college.

Floral Park Historical Society program rescheduled

The Floral Park Historical Society's February 1 program on “Old Glory:American Flag and Our Presidents’ Influence in its Design" has been rescheduled due to predicted

inclement weather. The program will now take place on Sunday, April 12, at 2pm at the Floral Park Recreation Center.

Retired NYPD Sgt. dies while preparing to shovel path at OLV FOUR VILLAGE STUDIO

From page 1

Community Television Serving

began his career with the NYPD after high school and served the department until 2008.

Roger was the beloved husband of Finola McGovern and proud father of Ailish, Leah, and Dara McGovern, who were the center of his world. He is the cherished son of Michael and Philome na McGovern, and beloved brother to

Tricia Dean(whose late husband Billy Dean was lost on 9/11), Kevin McGovern (Jennifer), and Kathy McGovern-Szala

Local duo to perform

Channels 18 & 28

Bellerose Village  Floral Park  South Floral Park  Stewart Manor 4V S

A funeral Mass was scheduled to take place on Friday, January 30th at Our Lady of Victory Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roger’s memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or to the Knights of Columbus Charity Fund, Council 2345.

7:30 PM

8:00 PM

8:30 PM

& THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5th

9:00 PM The Author Corner

Stephanie Larkin

“Niko’s Noisy Neighborhood” ~ Rita T. Mondello, Children’s Book Author The Antique Road Test

Walter Gosden

“Big Wheels” ~ The Evolution of Automobile Tires, Rims & Wheels

Uncorked

Rex Whicker

“Wine About Broadway: Part 1” ~ Rex Pairs Theatrical Performances With Wine

Wes Houston Presents…

Wes Houston

“Joe Carbone & A Class Act” ~ An Instrumental Jazz Quartet

FPFD: Red Alert

9:30 PM

Larry King, AEMT

“Cancer Risk To Firefighters ” ~ Mike Schumann, Fairfield Firefighter Association

Local duo Melted Ed and Cousin Dan will perform at Swing the Teapot (6 Verbena Ave, Floral Park) on Friday, January 30th from 8 - 11 p.m. The pair will play some of their original music as well as new covers. Enjoy food, tea and spirits. Admission is free. To reserve a table please call 516-488-2180.

1 Floral Blvd., Floral Park, NY 11002

Phone: 516.326.1150 ~ Email: 4VS@4VS.org

February at the Floral Park Public Library

If January is the month of change, February is the month of lasting change. January is for dreamers…February is for doers. – Mark Parent

And, there’s plenty to do at the Library this month, including several patriotic themed programs in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

On the February Teens “to do” list there’s the inaugural meeting of the Teen Advisory Committee (grades 6 – 12), which promises community service… and pizza! Also, there’s the Vacation Teen Cuisine program with Chef Rob… and more pizza, along with a Broadway Show Bill offering from P[ART]y Art, and several “TBD” programs in the works at press time.

There’s always something to do for the kids. In the first of four monthly sessions, Crafty Kids honors American’s big birthday with patriotic-themed programs (pre-K – grade 2). February also means Mardi Gras, and the Bayou Princess and Royal Events Princess parties will be in the house (castle?).

More “to dos” for the younger set include Drop in Valentine’s Day craft, a Pom Pom Queen craft program, P[ARTy Art for preschool thru 2nd grade and for grades three thru five. Chef Julie serves up programs for preschoolers thru grade one and a second session for grades two

thru five.

Mrs. Lazos, one of Floral Park's former kindergarten teachers, is back this month with a new 45 minute-session consisting of literature and an art project.

Rounding out the month, Play Hooray, Funkytown Playground, and A Time for Kids Baby Start and Family Pres-school Hour.

For adults, something no one likes to do: weekly Tuesday Tax Prep sessions with AARP by appointment only.

Another “taxing” program brings the Nassau County Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll to the Library the evening of February 10th for a tax grievance program. Want more? Registration is open for an Estate Planning and Eldercare workshop. Remember: February is for doers!

Wednesday morning Hybrid Chair Yoga is a welcome distraction from the “isn’t it spring yet?” thoughts, as is Cooking Mediterranean with Chef Naela, and Get Birding!, which celebrates the annual Great North American Bird Count.

February is Heart Health Month, and Bayada Nurses will host a table to share important information for a healthy heart.

Our  February Adult patriotic-themed event is  already at capacity: Artist

John

Danielle Barbaro leads a Mixed Media American Flag workshop, and Melissa Space of Them’s The Breaks dips strawberries in yummy chocolate and other toppings for Valentine’s Day (also at capacity).

The first trip of the new year finds the Floral Park Library Urban Explorers headed to the Frick Museum.

The weekly English Language Learner class continue on Tuesday evenings. Beginning in January, there will be two levels – Beginning and Intermediate. Pre-registration is required for both.

The Morning Friends of the Floral Park Library Book Club meets at 10:15 a.m. on Monday, February 2, and the Evening Edition Book Club discusses  the Valentine month appropriate “Like Water for Chocolate” by Laura Esquivel.

The Made with Love Knitting and Crocheting groups meet Mondays at 6:30 p.m. and Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m.; no registration necessary. Yarn donations welcome!

The Library Board meets on Wednesday, February 11, at 7:30 p.m.. The meeting is open to the public (use the rear entrance of the Library). The Friends of the Floral Park Library hold their first 2026 meeting on Thursday, February 15, at 5:00 p.m..

Looking for some help with your résumé, job search, LinkedIn profile or interview prep? Look no further than ellen o’brien. Contact her at eobrien@ nassaulibrary.org or 516 326.6330 x3103 for a free 30-minute career consultation. Need assistance with those smart devices and more? One-to-one tech help with Joe for tablets, smartphones, laptops, Kindles and general questions is available for our Floral Park patrons by appointment only (floralparktechhelp@ gmail.com).

The Library is closed for Presidents’ Day on Monday, February 16.

For more information on dates and times, events registration and program details, visit the library website, floralparklibrary.org, call 516 326-6330, or visit us at 17 Caroline Place. All events and programs are subject to change and/or cancellation.

Check out the Friends of the Floral Park Library offerings at the Circulation Desk. All sales of books, DVDs, jigsaw puzzles, bookmarks, and more support the Friends of the Floral Park Library, a 501c3 organization.

Follow the Library on Facebook (floralparklibrary), X (fplibrary17), or Instagram (fplibrary 17, floralparkchildrens, fpplteens).

Michael J. Capogna, D.D.S.

Michael

Laura M. Bodner, D.M.D.

Hance Family Foundation visits NCL chapter

•

•

•

•

•

her

The Garden City Chapter of National Charity League recently held one of their most meaningful Patroness meetings of the year. Representatives from the Hance Family Foundation, which is located in Floral Park, facilitated an interactive workshop based on their

Kathryn Ryan and Kelly Racich consider their strengths as part of the evening’s discussion.

Me program. The program promoted ways to increase awareness of inner and outer beauty, improve self-care and strengthen connections with others.

Warren and Jackie Hance found -

Continued on page 8

Rhein writes compliments to others in the room as part of the workshop.

and introduces the program.

A BETTER WAY TO USE THE WEB FOR AN MD.

Virtual Urgent Care from NYU Langone, the #1 physician practice network in the U.S.

While your rash, cough or cut may not be an emergency, you still need your symptoms diagnosed and treated. So, wherever you are in the New York area, you can see a doctor today. And with our single electronic health record, our providers can access all your medical records to make the most informed recommendations possible.

Better health starts with a better health system.

Junior Woman’s Club to meet

The Floral Park Junior Woman's Club

at the Floral Park Recreation Center Refreshments will be served - new

members welcome.

There will be a business meeting and then the group will learn the basics of mahjong.

Pre-K lottery

The Floral Park-Bellerose School District has announced the sixth year of its full-day pre-kindergarten program. This program is open exclusively to children who reside within the Floral Park- Bellerose School District and who will turn four years old on or before December 1, 2026.

In accordance with New York State Education Law, a lottery will be conducted to determine placement. Additional details about the lottery process will be provided after the application period closes.

Program Highlights:

• Curriculum aligned with the New York State Pre-Kindergarten Standards

• Free for district residents

• Before and after school care available for a fee

• Follows the district school calendar

• Placement is not school specific

• Program hours vary by schools

• Transportation is not provided

Due to limited seating in district buildings, a lottery system will be used for final assignments. Any overflow students will be conveniently placed within a trusted Community Based Organization located in Floral Park.

The application survey opens January 2, 2026. To apply, visit www. fpbsd.org . All applications must be received by Friday, January 30, 2026 no later than 4:00 p.m.

Do you have a service to advertise?

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

“Don’t

Press Send Club” encourages students to find fun offline

Floral Park-Bellerose School’s Don’t Press Send Club read “Bye-Bye, Wi-Fi!” and met with their younger peers throughout January.

Members of Floral Park-Bellerose School’s Don’t Press Send Club, which promotes online safety and kindness, recently met with students in pre-K, kindergarten, first and second grade to introduce age-appropriate digital safety concepts.

Club members read “Bye-Bye,

Campaign. The picture book follows the Fox family as they unplug for a day of connection, creativity and family fun.

After the reading, students took part in a hands-on activity, writing or drawing what they would do with the Fox family during a day without Wi-Fi.

Photos courtesy of the

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA? Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity? We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!

MASS: 10AM

TOURS: 11-12:30 PM

Hance Family Foundation visits NCL chapter

Continued from page 4

ed the Hance Family Foundation in memory of their three daughters who were killed in a tragic car accident. Their mission is to empower young girls and women of all ages, something the Garden City chapter of NCL always strives to do.

For more information which explains a bit about the Garden City chapter and when the next membership drive is, go to the website at: https://www.nationalcharityleague. org/chapter/gardencity/.

From Despair to Hope: Conquering Peripheral Neuropathy with Westbury Acupuncture

“It’s as though I’m stepping from razor blade to razor blade.”

“It feels like my feet are under attack by fire ants.”

“Like I’m walking on wet paint with rolled up socks.”

And you’re in this kind of pain all the time.

“It’s relentless, keeping you up at night and preventing you from doing even the most mundane tasks. Things that I used to take for granted, like wearing shoes and going grocery shopping. Two of my three children were getting married last year and I wasn’t even sure I was going to be able to attend their weddings,” shares Rose W. Rose was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in 2015, a degenerative condition affecting almost 5% of people over the age of 55.

“My doctor sat me down and said, ‘Rose I’m so sorry to tell you this, but you have peripheral neuropathy. I’m going to prescribe you gabapentin to manage the discomfort but overall, neuropathy is untreatable.’ My first thought was, ‘we can cure cancer but you can’t stop my feet from hurting?’ It felt like a cruel joke.”

While neuropathy can be caused by a number of things

including diabetes and chemotherapy, over 23% of neuropathy cases are classified as idiopathic. In layman's terms, the cause is unknown. This was the case with Rose. “Basically every question I had was met with an ‘I don’t know.’ It was depressing to say the least.”

Eventually, Rose was forced to quit her job because the numbness had started to set in and prevented her from driving.

Fortunately for Rose, she came across an article in the local newspaper featuring Jae Won Kim L.Ac and his innovative approach to treating peripheral neuropathy. “At first, I thought it had to be a sham. After so many specialists told me there was no hope, here was this acupuncturist in the

article claiming a 90% success rate in treating neuropathy! I just had to call, and I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am that I did.”

Jae Won Kim, founder of Westbury Acupuncture, says that cases like Rose’s are incredibly common. “Almost all of my neuropathy patients have been told at one point or another that there is no hope. I like to think I specialize in offering hope.”

To quote the New York Times, “Chinese medicine proves itself where Western medicine fails.”

“Acupuncture has been treating complicated, chronic conditions like neuropathy for thousands of years,” shares Jae Won. “I start with a foundation based on this time-tested science and my clinical experience. I then

tailor treatments based on a number of factors including the severity of your neuropathy, how long you’ve had it, whether or not there are any underlying factors, things of that nature. It’s because of these personalized treatment programs that we’re seeing such incredible results!”

Four months after treatment, Rose is back at work and thriving. “Being back at work isn’t even the most exciting part,” exclaims “Not only was I able to attend my son’s wedding, but I could walk down the aisle! It was the most magical moment and I have Jae Won to thank for it. To think, I might’ve missed that.” Rose held back tears.

If you or someone you love is suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling, or ‘pins and needles,’ or you’ve recently been diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy, it’s important to know that there are options.

There is hope. Call (516) 500-8281 to schedule an initial consultation or visit WestburyAcupuncture.com to read more incredible success stories.

January 30, 2026

New York State Celebrates America’s 250th

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Most Americans might not think of New York State first in context of the American Revolution and Independence – Boston, Philadelphia are more top of mind. But it will surprise virtually everyone to know that more battles – and pivotal ones - of the Revolution were fought in New York State than any other. In fact one-third of the battles and incursions were fought in New York, which the British considered vital to conquering the continent. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening:

Fort Ticonderoga Real Time Revolution™ Event Series (Adirondacks): The iconic historic site continues to honor its role with the Real Time Revolution™ event series, designed to bring the Revolutionary War to life on the very grounds it took place with key event reenactments, including during Independence Day Weekend, with a signature reenactment event: “Return of an Army.” This will depict the Northern Continental Army’s retreat to Ticonderoga during the same period that the Declaration of Independence was being signed in Philadelphia. (102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY 12883, 518-585-2821).

Saratoga National Historical Park (Saratoga Battlefield): Two hotly contested Revolutionary War battles ended in an American victory which some proclaim as one of the most important in world history. Visit the visitor center; tour the scenic 10-mile auto and bike road, hike historic paths (648 Rte 32, Stillwater, NY 12170, 518-664-9821, x 2980, www.nps. gov/sara to plan your visit).

Fort Stanwix National Monument, a full-scale reconstruction of the original fort built in 1758

At Fort Stanwix National Monument, engage with costumed Revolutionary War-era interpreters © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

by the British during the French and Indian War, was occupied by Americans during the Revolutionary War. After the successful defense of the fort against the British in August 1777, Fort Stanwix became the only American post never to surrender to the enemy throughout the war. Engage with costumed interpreters and visit Marinus Willett Center (100 N James St, Rome, NY 13440, (315) 338-7730, https://www.nps.gov/fost/ index.htm)See America’s Story on Display in New York City: New York City will also have its share of blockbuster events celebrating America’s 250th. One of the most sensational is “Sail 4th 250”, taking place July 3-9, 2026, with 30 Tall ships and 30 Grey Hull ships from 32 nations bringing 10,000 officers, cadets, crew and diplomats to parade down the East River on July 3rd up the Hudson River on July 4. Open to free public visits through July 9 (www.sail4th.org). Macy’s 50th anniversary fireworks on July 4th will be especially spectacular, with an International Aerial Review, head-

lined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. The Blue Angels will then headline the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Bach State Park (date change from Memorial Day Weekend to July 5 – 6) to celebrate America’s 250th. Follow Washington’s Culper Spy Ring Trail on Long Island: The Culper Spy Ring was an intelligence network crucial to the American victory (recently depicted in an AMC series, “Turn.”). Largely following Route 25A (Long Island Heritage Trail), President George Washington traveled this route in 1790 by horse-drawn carriage on a mission to thank his Long Island supporters and the ‘Culper Spy Ring’ for their help in winning the American Revolution. Among the Revolutionary War sites:  Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay; the Arsenal in Huntington; the Conklin House’ Joseph Lloyd Manor, the Brewster House in Stony Brook; and Sherwood-Jayne Farm, home of Loyalist William Jayne aka “Big Bill the Tory”. See where the Battle of Setauket was fought near the Setauket Presbyterian Church on

Caroline Ave.; Strongs Neck Road, where Anna Smith Strong and Abraham Woodhull lived, a key location for the spies; Thompson House where spies’ names are in the doctor’s book. On the South Shore, Sagtikos Manor in Bay Shore is where President George Washington stayed here during his Long Island tour in 1790. See: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/plan-your-trip/famous-longisland/george-washingtons-spy-trail/; find more Long Island 250 events: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/ longisland250/.

Westchester’s American Revolutionary Trail: invites travelers to walk through compelling historic sites: Jacob Purdy House (White Plains), Washington’s wartime headquarters; John Jay Homestead (Katonah) tracing early American politics, antislavery roots; Philipsburg Manor (Sleepy Hollow), examines slavery in the Colonial North; St. Paul’s Church (Mt. Vernon), a field hospital after the Battle of Pell’s Point; Square House Museum (Rye), historic tavern where John Adams, Samuel Adams and George Washington once stayed; Thomas Paine Cottage (New Rochelle), last home of the legendary pamphleteer, filled with rare artifacts; Van Cortlandt Manor (Croton-onHudson), a patriot family’s post-war home reveals the challenges of building a new nation. Visit https://www. visitwestchesterny.com/things-to-do/ history/american-revolutionary-trail/

See a full calendar of New York State’s America 250 events: https:// www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/ path-through-history/america-250/)

© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of February 1-7, 2026

Watch a Star Disappear!

The moon is our nearest neighbor in space, at an average distance of about 238,000 miles. As it orbits our Earth every month or so, it appears to pass by stars and planets in our night sky ... or, at least, so it seems. This is only an illusion, however, since the planets and stars are considerably farther away.

On occasion, however, the moon drifts in front of one of these more distant celestial bodies, blocking it from view for an hour or so. Such an “occultation” is important because it allows us to refine our knowledge of the moon’s orbit, and even to discover companion objects orbiting distant stars. In fact, it was a faint companion star orbiting the red supergiant Antares that first showed up during a lunar occultation in the early 19th century.

These lunar occultations are not uncommon, but for the moon to occult a bright star is. That’s why on Monday night, Feb. 2, stargazers throughout much of North America should plan to watch as the moon passes in front of the bright star Regulus.

On that night, the moon will approach the star from its upper right. Keep a watchful eye on Regulus until it winks out instantly behind the moon’s bright edge. This quick disappearance occurs for two reasons. The first is that the star is so distant that it appears as only a point of light in our sky. The second is because the moon has no atmosphere to dim the star’s light before blocking it completely.

Watching the star disappear and reappear might

be a challenge, however, since the moon will be so bright. You will find that binoculars will help you see Regulus wink out, and a small telescope will give you the best view of all.

Skywatchers around the country will view the

LOST IN SUBURBIA

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Whenever my husband goes out of town, I cheat. I figure what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him, and since there’s no way for him to find out that I cheated, why not have some fun while he’s out of town?

Do I feel guilty about this? Maybe a bit. But only because I know that my indiscretions may eventually catch up with me in the end. You see, I don’t just have one lover. I have two.

Ben AND Jerry.

It’s true, I’m supposed to be dairyfree. Wheat-free too. It’s not that I’m allergic to wheat and dairy. It’s more of an intolerance. And by intolerance, I mean that when I eat anything with wheat or dairy in it ...

I snore. Yes, I snore. And it’s loud. Like, rocket-engine loud. Someone once measured it in decibels, and it was somewhere between a heavy metal rock concert and a baby crying on a plane, both of which are annoying but apparently not as annoying as an extremely loud wife snoring in the bed next to you.

event from different angles, so the times will differ from place to place. From the U.S. East Coast, for example, Regulus will disappear (its ingress) at around 8:52 p.m. EST and reappear (its egress) at around 9:52 a.m. EST.

In the Midwest, the occultation will occur with the moon much lower in the eastern sky. The moon covers Regulus around 7:44 p.m. CST and uncovers it around 8:41 p.m. CST.

Farther to the west, in the Mountain time zone, the moon will appear quite low in the east. Regulus will disappear before it and the moon rise over the horizon, but the pair will lie about 10 degrees above the landscape by the time Regulus reappears from behind the moon around 7:31 p.m. MST.

Viewers on the West Coast, I’m afraid, will have to sit this one out. The entire event occurs while the moon and Regulus are still below the horizon.

Wherever you’re located, make sure you begin your watch at least 10 or 15 minutes early, and don’t turn away as the star appears to close in on the moon. To get more precise timings, call your local planetarium, science museum or observatory.

If the weather should interfere, or if you miss the star’s split-second disappearance or reappearance, don’t worry. There will be other occultations during the coming months.

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM

Sleeping With the Enemy

Or so I’ve been told.

While my husband is out of town, I don’t care if I snore. I don’t wake myself up snoring, and I don’t keep anyone else awake either. Yeah, sometimes the dog gets annoyed, but then again, sometimes he snores too. When he snores, he gets thrown out of the room. My husband doesn’t do that with me because it would make me mad, and he knows which side his bread is buttered on.

Wheat-free bread, that is.

It was a tough decision, but for the sake of my marriage, I chose domestic bliss over fresh bread. But when the cat is away, the mouse will play ... and also eat a lot of cheese, pizza and ice cream.

I thought I was in the clear, but the problem with wheat and dairy is that they always come back to bite you in the butt, or at least make your butt bigger. After several months, it was becoming clear that I definitely had a little something going down on the side, and I knew I was going to have to come clean.

But then I found a guy who makes really good gluten-free cakes and bread.

And my favorite ice cream dudes, bless their hearts, started a line of dairy-free ice cream. Was it possible I could have my wheat-free chocolate lava cake and eat it too?

I made the switch while my husband was away. And then when he came home, we went to sleep, and I assumed all went well.

But alas, I was wrong.

“You snored last night,” he said accusingly the next day. “Did you eat wheat or dairy yesterday?”

“I did not,” I replied honestly.

“Well, you must have had something. What did you have?” he asked.

“The only thing I had that I didn’t make was a piece of wheat-free chocolate cake.”

“Maybe you are chocolate-intolerant now too,” he said.

I glared at him. “So you’re saying that now you think I should give up chocolate?”

“Maybe. If it makes you snore.”

“Actually, I think you should give up something now too,” I replied.

“What?” he wondered aloud.

I shrugged. “Sleeping in the bedroom.”

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.

COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM

Pros & Cons of Outsourcing Jobs and Its Effect on Real Estate

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

If you think our costs of goods are high now, can you imagine what they would have been if we had kept our jobs in the U.S.? However, the middle class would have been much improved, but the lower income waged families and individuals would have actually continued to suffer affordability, as explained and shown in my research and analysis below:

If the U.S. had not outsourced jobs or moved manufacturing offshore, the cost of goods and merchandise would almost certainly be higher, but with important trade-offs that are often overlooked.

Estimated Price Impact

Most economists agree that everyday consumer goods would cost 15% to 40% more on average, depending on the product category:

Category: Estimated Price Increase:

Clothing & footwear +25% to +40%

Electronics & appliances +15% to +30%

Furniture & home goods +20% to +35%

Toys & consumer products +20% to +40%

Automobiles +10% to +20%

Example:

A $25 T-shirt: $32–$35

A $1,200 TV: $1,400–$1,550

A $30,000 car: $33,000–$36,000

Why Costs Would Be Higher

U.S. production generally means:

Higher wages

Stronger labor protections

Higher regulatory compliance

Higher healthcare and benefit costs

These get passed through the supply chain into retail pricing.

But… What Would We Gain?

Higher prices would be offset in several ways:

1. Higher Domestic Wages

Millions more Americans would be employed in manufacturing, logistics, and supply chains—raising household incomes.

2. Stronger Middle Class

Manufacturing historically supported stable, unionized, middle-income jobs, especially in housing and consumer markets.

3. Greater Economic Resilience

Less exposure to global disruptions (pandemics, wars, shipping crises, tariffs).

4. Improved Trade Balance

Less reliance on imports, lower trade deficits, stronger dollar stability over time.

Real Estate Connection

If manufacturing had stayed domestic: More regional economic stability, especially in Midwest and industrial towns, Stronger housing demand in secondary markets, not just coastal cities, core consistent wage growth, supporting homeownership.

Bottom Line

Yes, goods would likely cost 20–30% more, but many Americans would also earn 20–40% more in real wages—creating a very different economic balance than today’s lower prices but higher inequality.

Building a localized housing affordability model for Long Island, and then contrast that with how consumer budgets would look across income brackets if the U.S. had higher domestic wages (from more on-shore manufacturing and less outsourcing).

Long Island Housing Affordability Today

Current Snapshot (2024–2025)

Nass Cty Suff Cty LI Overall

Median Home Price

~$720,000 ~$550,000 ~$635,000

Est. Monthly Total Housing Cost*

~$5,970 ~$4,675

Median Household Income

~$143,000 ~$128,000

*Assumes 20% down, 30-yr mortgage at current rates + taxes/insurance.

Affordability Ratio

(Housing Cost / Income)

Nassau County: ~50% of income

Suffolk County: ~44% of income

Affordable Benchmark: <30% of income

So most Long Islanders are spending far more than the affordable threshold, with many cost-burdened households spending >35% of income on housing.

Median Income vs. What’s “Affordable”

According to polling and housing data:

Typical homes now require ~$240,000+ annual income to meet traditional affordability metrics — far above local median households.

Primary drivers:

Stagnant wage growth vs. housing price surges

Limited housing supply, especially for starter homes

High property taxes

2. If U.S. Wages Were Higher (Hypothetical On-shore Wage Scenario)

Here we model how housing affordability would change if manufacturing jobs stayed in the U.S. and raised wages across income brackets, without changing housing supply.

Key Assumptions

U.S. average wages +15–30% due to domestic manufacturing wages lifting average pay.

Consumer goods ~20–30% higher cost — as estimated earlier.

Housing prices initially unchanged but purchasing power increases due to higher incomes.

3. Affordability by Income Bracket

Let’s use three example households: Household Type Income Housing Budget @30%Typical LI Home Payment

Lower-income (20th pct)~ $50,000~$1,250/mo housing cost ~$4,500/mo*

Middle (50th pct)* ~$130,000 ~$3,250/ mo housing cost ~$4,675–$5,970/mo Upper (80th pct)~$220,000~$5,500/mo housing cost closer to affordable

*Median LI incomes vary widely depending on county.

*“Typical LI Home Payment” uses combined mortgage + tax estimate.

Current Reality

Lower-income houses are priced out of homeownership entirely — spending large shares of income on rent and barely any on savings.

Middle earners are struggling: even a household at ~130k must spend 40–50%+ of income on housing — much above the 30% guideline.

High earners can approach affordability, but local prices still strain budgets since houses often exceed 9× income with high taxes and cost burdens.

4. Hypothetical: Wages +25% (No Outsourcing)

Let’s model how that changes affordability.

New Income Estimates

Income Bracket Today Hypothetical

Lower $50,000 $62,500

Middle $130,000 $162,500

Upper $220,000 $275,000

Housing Budget @30% Rule

Scenario 30% of Income (Monthly)

Lower $1,563

Middle $4,063

Upper $6,875 Impact

Lower household: Still unable to afford median Long Island housing, but can better cover rent and necessities — and might buy in more affordable suburbs outside LI.

Middle household: Moves from severely cost-burdened (~40–50% of income) closer to borderline (~30–35%) on typical LI payments.

Upper household: Gets comfortably within traditional affordability range.

Overall — higher wages improve purchasing power even though goods cost more. The housing portion of budget eases because income growth outpaces the percentage increase in housing costs.

5. Consumer Budget Impacts

Without Outsourcing (Higher Wages)

More disposable income

Better housing affordability ratios

Stronger local economies

Less pressure on rentals

Trade-off

Consumer goods cost 20–30% more (e.g., electronics, clothing).

But income gains generally outweigh these raised prices for middle and upper income brackets.

6. Local Takeaways for Long Island Current Situation

Many households are cost-burdened (spending >30–35% on housing).

Root causes include wage stagnation, high taxes, supply constraints, and demand pressure.

With Hypothetical Higher Wages

Middle incomes would approach affordability thresholds.

Lower incomes would still struggle — highlighting need for more housing supply and targeted subsidies.

Local economic growth (e.g., more manufacturing jobs) could reduce the need for long commuting patterns and increase disposable spending.

Bottom Line

If wages were generally 25% higher due to more domestic jobs, housing affordability on Long Island would improve significantly, particularly for middle-income families. However: It wouldn’t solve the crisis for the lowest-income households without supply and policy changes.

Local budgets would adjust to higher consumer prices — but the net purchasing power would still be stronger for many.

Key Insights

Lower-income households remain severely priced out, even with wage gains.

Continued on page 5

BY TOM MARGENAU

This is going to be a column about the infamous “notch babies.” I thought this issue had died, because frankly, almost everyone affected by this glitch in Social Security law has died. (The few still alive would be over 100 years old.) But amazingly, I am now hearing from the babies of notch babies! In other words, people now in their 70s are writing to me about an issue that affected their parents. Here is a typical example.

“I’ve always been curious about something. My mom, who would have turned 100 today if she were still alive, always complained that she was being cheated out of Social Security benefits because of something called “the notch.” In fact, she called herself a “notch baby.” I know it’s too late to do anything about it, but can you explain what that was all about?”

Yes, I can explain. This cohort of now mostly deceased Social Security beneficiaries are generally people born between 1917 and about 1926. And their false claims about getting financially fleeced by Uncle Sam were fueled by a rather sophisticated, albeit deceitful and shameful lobbying campaign, sponsored by greedy gadflies out to make a quick buck.

The infamous “notch” refers to a time period when corrections were made to the Social Security benefit formula -- corrections that were necessary to ensure that all Social Security recipients were paid properly, but corrections that were misconstrued by many to be a way of cheating them out of benefits they felt they were due. Here’s the story.

In 1972, Congress passed a law mandating automatic annual cost-of-living adjustments -- or COLAs -- to Social Security checks. Those COLAs were to be based on increases in the government’s official inflation measuring stick: the consumer price index. (Before 1972, COLAs were not automatic. They were sporadic and happened only if Congress specifically authorized a yearly increase.)

As part of the new process, the Social Security Administration had to come up with a formula for calculating increases to people’s Social Security checks -which they did. But after COLAs were paid for a couple of years, someone noticed the formula was wrong. Social Security beneficiaries were getting cost-ofliving increases that were slightly higher than intended.

Once the mistake was discovered and SSA notified Congress, several decisions had to be made. For one, they had to figure out what to do about all of the Social Security beneficiaries who received the overly generous COLA adjustments. Congress decided to let them keep the money. (It would have been political suicide to send “overpayment” letters to every senior citizen in the country de-

Babies of “Notch Babies”

manding repayment of the incorrectly paid funds.)

The second choice Congress had to make was to decide where to draw the line -- to figure out which people would have their benefits figured using the proper COLA formula. And they drew that line at 1917. In other words, they said everyone born in 1917 and later would have their Social Security benefit figured using the corrected formula.

Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? But sometimes Congress can’t leave well enough alone. In this case, they bowed to pressure from senior citizen groups who demanded a transition period from the old (incorrect) formula to the new (proper) formula. After lots of haggling, what they eventually decided was that everyone born between 1917 and 1921 would have their benefit figured using a special formula.

So, we ended up with the following scenarios. People born after 1921 had their benefits figured using the lower, but proper, COLA formula. People born before 1917 had their benefits figured using the higher, but incorrect, formula. And people born between 1917 and 1921 had their benefits figured with a special formula that was not quite as generous as the one used for the pre-1917 crowd but more generous than the one used for the post-1921 crowd.

You’d think everyone would be happy, right? Well, what happened next was pretty bizarre. Social Security recipients born between 1917 and 1921 started to complain that they weren’t getting quite as generous a COLA as folks born in 1916 and earlier. Someone should have pointed out to them that they were indeed being paid at a special rate that was lower than the incorrect benefits paid to the pre-1917 crowd, but at a higher rate than anyone born from 1922 on.

Instead of listening to reason, mobs of angry senior citizens around the country started to form into groups demanding justice. Even advice columnist Ann Landers got into the fray. She’s the one who came up with the moniker: “notch babies.” And all these folks mistakenly thought they were singled out for lower benefit adjustments than everyone else.

Then those greedy lobbying groups I mentioned earlier got into the mix and really muddied things. They sent letters to folks born in the so-called “notch years” telling them they were being cheated out of Social Security benefits and asking for donations to “fight this injustice.” And to help fill their coffers even more, the lobbyists deceitfully expanded the definition of those notch years to include everyone born through 1926. Some inexplicably even pushed the notch cutoff into 1930s dates of birth! So senior citizens of all ages started sending in tens of millions of dollars -- money that paid for many overpriced lobbyists and some pretty nice office space in Washing-

ton, D.C. -- but money that accomplished nothing else. After all, there was no “injustice” to fight.

Sadly, millions of seniors born between 1917 and 1926 or even later went to their graves bitter and disappointed -- including my own mother, by the way! Those very few still alive believe to this day that they are being cheated out of Social Security benefits. If you know one of these people, please tell them to enjoy what time they have left on earth and stop fretting about an alleged injustice that never happened. Or if you are the child of a deceased “notch baby,” please

rest assured that your parent wasn’t cheated out of anything.

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.

COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

BY THOMAS F. SCHENKEL

My father, a mechanical engineer, would occasionally end our family dinner by reciting to us a poem from memory. His library of technical textbooks was interspersed with volumes of poetry. I never quite understood the connection between the two, but I found it very intriguing.

When the shocking news came that dad had suddenly passed away from a heart attack, we were all devastated and were all left to grieve in our own personal way. I, as a young English teacher, found it difficult to accept that I would never see my father again. Fighting back my tears, I realized that life, despite my grief, must go on and that I must provide a living for my growing family. Fortunately for me, I found my livelihood to be, not an obstacle, but a source of solace.

One day I came up with an idea. Why not share my father’s love for poetry with my students? I started to gather together my thoughts and recollections and compiled a list of poems that I could recall. I selected “The Daffodils” by William Wordsworth and proceeded to commit the poem to memory.

As I learned Wordsworth’s classic poem line by line and stanza by stanza, I felt a surge of my father’s words dancing in my mind. There was a certain feeling of fulfillment and pride when I had accomplished the task. Now it was my job to share this joy with my students. To my great satisfaction, they embraced the assignment whole-heartedly. We made our project fun and enhanced it with various projects and posters. The culmination, of course, was each student’s recitation of the

A Father’s Lasting Gift

poem. Even the most timid of my students were nurtured and given lavish praise for their efforts and accomplishments.

The assignment was a resounding success. My father’s love of poetry was still alive despite his passing. As the year progressed, I continued to incorporate other poems recited by my father and to add favorites of my own. It became a joyous and memorable part of our academic year. Little did I know then the impact that this poetry would have on my students. As the year progressed, I would introduce various poems that would tie in with our novels, the seasons, holidays and other topics of interest. It became a huge success with the students and parents alike.

“The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe was a favorite. I would douse the lights and close the blinds before reenacting Poe’s macabre masterpiece. After studying the poem, we watched a film version and created various props to enhance our sense of drama: “the purple curtain”, “the bust above my chamber door” and , of course “the stately Raven”. It was the perfect poem to set the mood for the Halloween season. Students rose to the occasion far beyond my expectations. As always, I would do my own dramatic recitation before the students did theirs. I think it made the class more at ease to realize, “well, if he can do it, so can I”.

As the year progressed, we studied “Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost. Frost has long been a personal favorite of mine. For this poem our major prop was a set of “harness bells” to shake at the

appropriate time. They loved the bells, and I also gave them additional motivation. I told the class that if everyone learned the poem I would take them outside to do a class recitation on the day of the first snow. Let me just say, they held me to my word. It was exhilarating and joyous! You don’t forget a moment like that, ever.

To tie in with our study of the American Revolution we read the novel Johnny Tremain. When we came to the battles of Lexington and Concord we studied Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poem “The Concord Hymn”. You perhaps recall the memorable line, “and fired the shot heard round the world”. To add to the drama I wore a tri-cornered hat, a tan vest and held a replica musket from Williamsburg, Virginia. Need I say more? You see, it’s all about the props. I was delighted when a student of mine visited the site of Emmerson’s “rude bridge” with his family and recited the poem. His photos and stories only added to our appreciation. Our memorization would sometimes include a classic piece of prose like The Gettysburg Address. This outstanding speech has been hailed as one of the greatest public addresses of our time. I started our lesson by showing the movie The Perfect Tribute. This story portrayed Lincoln’s words and the impact that they had on our nation. “That this government of the people, by the people and for the people shall not perish from the earth”. To allay students’ fears, I told them that I would leave a copy of the speech on the podium if they needed to refer to it. I then proceeded to deliver the Address dramatically with a top-hat on my head

(only kidding). I also shared with the class that I had personally recited this speech on the very spot where Lincoln had spoken. It is marked by a star on the ground. Since our study, two former students, both sisters, recited the Gettysburg Address together while standing on the very same star.

One summer’s day my wife and I were dining outdoors at a local eatery. We encountered two married couples that I had taught years before. One former student said “Do you remember when you had us recite the poem “Richard Cory” by E.A. Robinson? Sure enough, the five of us did a recital of the poem together, right there on the busy street.

On a January day several years ago, I received a letter from the mother of a former student. She wrote to me of her son’s love of poetry stemming from my class. They were out to dinner as a family when her son realized that it was December 21st, “the darkest evening of the year”. He spontaneously started to recite a Robert Frost poem. She shared with me that her son “has a degree in engineering, but his true loves are poetry and writing, thanks to you”. I wrote a letter back to her and assured her that all the credit belonged to a fellow engineer. “Thanks, dad. Despite the fact that Carl Sandburg told us that ‘the grass will cover all’, your love of poetry lives on in the minds and hearts of many.”

Thomas F. Schenkel is a lifelong Garden City resident and former educator in the Garden City Middle School.

Pros & Cons of Outsourcing Jobs and Its Effect on Real Estate

Continued from page 3

Middle-income households move closer to affordability but still face strain.

Upper-income households move comfortably into affordable territory.

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

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900 AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 6 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com

Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram • Syosset Advance Jericho News Journal • Floral Park Villager

DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.

2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”

2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com

Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

CLEANING PERSON NEEDED

GARDEN CITY AREA

CO-OP one bedroom, one bath, kitchen, living/dining room. REFERENCES A MUST CALL JOSEPHINE 516-746-0421

GARDEN CITY ACUPUNCTURE

We are seeking part time help; Basic computer knowledge Friendly personality to interact with patients 6 hrs per day, 2-3 days/week Very flexible Please inquire at: 516-741-7206

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844329-9391

HEARING AIDS!! High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855819-7060

WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

MARKETPLACE

INVITED SALES

BY TRACY JORDAN

Transform your space, maximize your value: Are you looking to add value to your property and enhance its appeal? Look no further!

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

WE BUY 8,000 CARS A WEEK

MARKETPLACE

Antique & Vintage Items

Jewelry-Crystal-Silver Furniture-Mirrors-Tabletop Artwork-Lamps

Consign, Shop or Visit the Yellow House 109 Eleventh Street Garden City 516-746-8900

Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed to 6pm) Saturday 12-4 (entrance & parking in back) Consignments by appointment atstewartexchange@tgchs.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society

At Invited Sales, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your needs: Personal Property Appraisals and Evaluations: Get expert insights into the true value of your personal property. Estate and Tag Sales: Simplify the process of selling estate items with our professional online and in-person tag sale services. Home Updates: From carpet removal to one-day floor refinishing and contractor services, we handle it all to refresh your home effortlessly. Staging Services: Elevate your space with our curated selection of furniture, accessories, lighting, and decorative items for a stunning transformation. Explore our captivating before and after photos showcasing homes where we’ve added significant value, making them stand out in the market: Visit: InvitedSales.com today to discover how we can help you achieve your property goals! Please Call: 516-279-6378 Or Text Tracy Jordan: 516-567-2960

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Sports Cards, Pokemon Cards, Comics and Art. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048

Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-403-3374

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

HAMPTON BAYS RENTAL FOR SOUTHAMPTON GOLF OPEN

Coming up in June. On the Water Pool Dock available 4 Bedrooms/2 Baths

4 Queen beds & 2 Twin beds Call for Pictures $1000/a night $7000/weekly Call Owner: 631-903-2989 DeLuca

SERVICES

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679

SERVICES

BARNES GALLERY

Custom Picture Framing Two Nassau Blvd

Garden City, NY 516-538-4503

Tuesday-Saturday 10-5

CONSUMER CELLULAR the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ. Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates. com

AUTOS WANTED

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS

$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199 Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516-297-2277

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind today at 1-855-484-3467

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159

DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S IN YOUR WATER? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli. com

516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps.

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5 year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-5161160 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES with Briggs & StrattonPowerProtect(TM) standby generators the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

SAFE STEP

North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub.

Comprehensive Lifetime warranty. Top of the line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step: 1-855-916-5473

HEALTH SERVICES

BIG APPLE ACUPUNCTURE

Xiao S. Chen Lac

Unmatched Expertise Tailored Treatment Personalized Acupuncture

All types of pain treated including neck, back, hip, sciatica. Treatment adjusts internal organ balance, enhances immunity, metabolism and endocrine function. Promotes circulation, resulting in increased energy, weight loss and reduced facial wrinkles. We Accept Most Insurances www.bigappletcm.com 516-250-7051

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications

516-248-9323

www.familycareconnections.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

Love to write?

We’re looking for writers in our community to compose articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even pieces of fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section.

SERVICES

PAINTING

& PAPERHANGING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

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

JOHN MIGLIACCIO

Licensed & Insured #80422100000

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

TUTORING

STRUGGLING WITH BIO? LET’S MAKE IT CLICK! From cell structure to ecosystems, I help students truly understand not just memorize. AP Honors

Regents: Biology Environmental Science Virtual or In-Person Dr. Amanda Shore, University Professor ShoreThingBiology@gmail. com

CLEANING

CLEANING AVAILABLE EXPERIENCED POLISH HOUSE CLEANER

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

SERVICES

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

A great game day treat

Football Cake Pops

Football is a wildly popular sport throughout much of North America. That popularity kicks up a notch come January, when collegiate and professional players are battling it out in their respective playoffs with an end goal of winning a championship.

Watch parties have become a game day tradition for millions of football fans, and it’s customary to provide some delicious food when hosting such get-togethers. Chicken wings and nachos might be must-have foods for adults come game day, but it’s import-

3 1⁄2 cups cake flour

2 cups granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

4 large eggs, at room temperature

1) Preheat oven to 350° F. Lightly butter and flour two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans.

2) In the bowl of your stand mixer, sift or whisk together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the butter and half the buttermilk. Beat with the paddle attachment on a medium-low speed until combined and smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes.

3) In a medium sized bowl, with a fork, whisk together the eggs, egg whites, the rest of the buttermilk, and the vanilla to combine, just until eggs are broken up. Add the egg mixture to the batter in 3 additions, mixing on medium speed for 2 minutes after each addition, being sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently.

4) Divide the batter evenly between the two pans, and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans until they are cool to the touch, then turn out of pans and cool completely on wire racks.

5) Make sure the cakes are completely cool before you attempt the cake pops, otherwise your frosting will melt and you may have some trouble rolling intact balls.

and

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info.

• Articles must be between 1,500 – 3,000 words.

• Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

Email editor@ gcnews.com to put your engagement or wedding announcement in the papoer.

6) Put your baked cake in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to crumble the entire cake. Add about half of the chocolate frosting to the crumbled cake. The frosting is what acts as a glue to hold the cake balls together. Use your hands to mix the frosting evenly throughout the crumbled cake mix until the cake mix is well moistened. Your cake mix should

2 large egg whites, at room temperature

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1⁄2 cup prepared chocolate frosting

2 to 21⁄4 lbs. milk chocolate

3 tablespoons shortening 40 candy sticks White icing, for decorating

be moist enough to shape into a large mound and keep its shape.

7) Roll your cake mix into 11⁄2inch, football-shaped cake balls using the palms of your hands. You should be able to get 30 to 35 football-shaped balls from a single batch of cake mix.

8) To prepare the chocolate shell, pour milk chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl and melt on 50 percent power for 4 minutes, or more time if necessary.

9) Pull out your melted milk chocolate and stir thoroughly with a spoon until completely smooth. Once smooth, add shortening to the chocolate to thin out the consistency a bit. Stir thoroughly again.

10) Take a candy stick and dip into the chocolate about 1 inch and place it into the center of your cake ball on the top. This will act as a glue keeping your cake pop and stick attached. Continue for all cake pops. Wait 10 minutes for the chocolate to harden on the stick and on the cake pop.

ant to provide something special for young fans as well. This year, playoff party hosts can whip up these tasty “Football Cake Pops” from Lines+Angles for young fans. Makes 30 servings Our Service

11) Now you are ready to coat your cake pops in the chocolate. Place the pop in the chocolate at a sideways angle with one hand. Using the other hand, spoon the chocolate mixture all around the pop. Try to do this as quickly as possible before the chocolate begins to harden and get lumpy. Once you have evenly coated the pop, gently tap the stick on the side of the bowl to get off any excess chocolate that would drip. Once the chocolate shell hardens, decorate the football pops with grip marks using the white icing. Let the icing dry and serve at room temperature.

Two Nassau Blvd Garden City, N.Y. 516-538-4503

www.barnesgalleryframing.com barnesgallery@yahoo.com

Boosting

Despite winter conditions, buyer demand remains strong — and inventory is limited in Floral Park Village & Bellerose Village (FPBS School District).

Current Market Snapshot:

• Single-Family Homes: Only 13 currently on the market.

– 7 homes priced between $1,120,000 – $1,599,000

– 6 homes priced between $850,000 – $939,000

• Two-Family Homes: Just 3 available

• Co-ops: Only 2 studio apartments on the market.

*January open houses are experiencing strong and consistent attendance.

While winter weather may be here, motivated and well-qualified buyers remain active. Fewer homes mean less competition and greater visibility for your property.

Considering downsizing, relocating, or planning a move to warmer surroundings? Now may be the ideal time to begin planning — so next winter looks very different.

Thinking of selling your home? I invite you to reach out for a confidential, no-obligation conversation with Marie O’Connor-Grant (516) 524-2781 to discuss what makes the most sense for you and your family.

Local market expertise you can trust. Proudly serving Floral Park, Nassau County & Queens.