Town offers free health programs

At Town Park Pt. Lookout, Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti (center) announced a Summertime Wellness Series partnership with Northwell Health, which includes a Skin Cancer Screening on Thursday, July 16th and a 4 Ways to Save a Life event on Thursday, July 23rd.
As the summer season continues to heat up, the Town of Hempstead, in partnership with Northwell Health, are launching the Summertime Wellness Series – a collaborative initiative aimed at providing residents with convenient access to preventive health services and wellness resources throughout the summer.
The Summertime Wellness Series includes free skin cancer screening events at local parks. The free screenings are designed to encourage early detection of skin cancer while promoting sun safety and outdoor wellness. Medical professionals from Northwell
Health will provide screenings to help residents identify possible warning signs of skin cancer. The event is limited to the first 50 participants.
"Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy town parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, but it's also important to protect your health while doing so," said Town Supervisor John Ferretti. "By partnering with Northwell Health, we're making it easier for residents to receive a potentially lifesaving skin cancer screening at no cost. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity and make their health a priority."
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Town officials encourage residents to wear sunscreen, seek shade during peak sunlight hours, and schedule regular skin examinations.
The Summertime Wellness Series will continue with “Four Ways to Save a Life” on Thursday, July 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Echo Park Pool Complex (399 Nassau Blvd., West Hempstead), where residents can learn essential lifesaving skills and wellness practices.
Floral Park Village Board reports
The Floral Park Village Board trustees gave the following reports during their July 7th meeting:
Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald
I would like to thank Trustee Stewart and Superintendent of Recreation Darlene Lanza for all the hard work they put into organizing the awesome 250th Anniversary Celebration. It was a very well-attended event, with rave reviews from residents. I know that a lot of work and effort went into the planning, and it is much appreciated. I'd also like to thank the residents who attended.
A reminder that our next Board meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 12th. We only meet once a month during July and August.
Dep. Mayor Lynn Pombonyo Police Department
Throughout the month of June, 885 Incidents required our Floral Park Police Department’s attention. This number encompassed 245 traffic stops, 22 traffic accidents with damage and/ or injuries, 93 aided cases also involving our NYU Lan-
gone or Fire Department ambulance, 40 citizens needing assistance, 12 trees/poles down, 41 alarms of all types, 50 suspicious persons, and 5 important welfare checks. One hundred eighty-six violations, not including parking, were recorded in June. Forty-five summonses were issued due to failure to stop at stop signs. Additional summonses were issued for disobeying traffic control devices and passing red signals (8), improper u-turns (8), unlicensed operation of a vehicle (8), and numerous other infractions that violate our Vehicle and Traffic Laws.
In June, the Motor Carrier Unit conducted truck safety inspections along Plainfield Avenue. The Officers completed ten inspections and issued 46 Vehicle and Traffic Law summonses. Five vehicles were placed out of service for tire, load securement, brake and registration violations. Two drivers were placed out of service, one for not having a license and the other for possession of marijuana inside the commercial motor vehicle. While marijuana is legal
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Floral Park Village Board reports
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in New York State, there are exceptions. It remains an out of service violation for truck drivers, as per the federal motor carrier standards. Our very important Motor Carrier Unit will continue to conduct enforcement on Plainfield Avenue and other locations in the coming months.
Our FPPD Detectives perform an essential role as they conduct investigations seeking additional information and evidence when alleged crimes are committed. In June, our Detectives conducted investigations involving Petit Larceny (of a lawn mower and contents in unlocked motor vehicles), Larceny (mailbox fishing), Identity Theft (unauthorized access to an account, no loss), Robbery (of a bicycle) and an Assault (involving breathing obstruction). Our Detectives and Patrol Officers have also made seventeen arrests, year to date.
In the area of parking, 1079 summonses were issued. The violations included 345 for expired meters, 209 for prohibited on-street parking between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM, 75 for parking over the legal four hour limit, 21 for double parking, 18 for parking less than the required fifteen feet from a fire hydrant, and 9 for parking in a marked fire/emergency lane. Please do not double park, and please leave fire/emergency lanes and hydrants open and clear for our first responders.
And, as you see our Police “Park, Walk and Talk” on our Village streets, be sure to “Stop, Greet and Thank.”
The Library
All are invited to the Library lawn for two wonderful musical events this summer, sponsored by our Village of Floral Park Library and our Friends of the Floral Park Library.
First, on Thursday, July 16th at 7:00 PM (rain date one week later, on July 23rd), enjoy the universally beloved sounds of the Cold Spring Harbor Band,
a Billy Joel Tribute Band. Next will be Foreign Journey: a Journey Tribute Band on Thursday, August 20th, 7:00 PM (rain date, one week later on August 27th), all presented on the Town of Hempstead Showmobile.
The Library’s Summer Outdoor Concert Series is the perfect complement to our Village Council of Cultural Affairs’ Friday evening concerts in Memorial Park.
Also, a reminder that our Library is now on its July summer schedule: Saturdays, open 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and closed on Sundays. In August, the Library will close on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday hours remain the same throughout the summer.
And we’ll see you next Thursday on July 16th at 7:00 PM for the memorable music of the Piano Man, Billy Joel. Chambers of Commerce & Business
During the summer, our businesses are up and running with the latest in merchandise and services for everyone. Check out the Floral Park Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for what’s happening with our businesses and their special summer events, sales opportunities and all good news. Enjoy the colorful graphics, entertaining videos and the best music. And then, do your summertime shopping and dining local right here in Floral Park and Stewart Manor!
250th Anniversary of Our Nation!
The Village of Floral Park came out to join in this patriotic celebration on a magnificent summer evening in June. There was sparkling red, white and blue everywhere, great music and food, high spirits, fun with family and friends, and awesome fireworks.
Thanks to all who celebrated with us, and to all who made it possible: Semiquincentennial planners Trustee Jennifer Stewart, the North End Civic Association with Kevin Greene, president, and the Parks Department with
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FOUR VILLAGE STUDIO

Rex Whicker
David
~ Composer & Guitar Virtuoso
FPFD: Red Alert
Larry King, AEMT
“United States Fire Administration” ~ Denis Onieal, Deputy Administrator (Ret.)




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Floral Park Village Board reports
Superintendent Darlene Lanza and Assistant Gena King, all supported by our Floral Park Police Department, Fire Department and Department of Public Works.
Trustee Frank Chiara
Department of Public Works
The Highway Department has successfully swept all of our roads while also hauling away yard waste and millings. They have been actively addressing potholes, applying a total of 10 tons of asphalt. Additionally, they completed milling and paving work on Whitney Avenue, utilizing 30 tons of asphalt. As part of other storm cleanup activities, they also cleaned the basins and painted line striping on both the Northside and Southside. Read More Centennial Gardens
The Knights of Columbus hosted a Mass at Centennial Gardens on the morning of July 4, celebrated by Father Tom. The Mass was attended by a large number of residents and was a wonderful way to begin celebrating the 250th anniversary of our nation. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus, Father Tom, and our Village staff for organizing this beautiful outdoor Mass at the gardens.
Trustee Jennifer Stewart MTA/LIRR
The MTA will be working over the next two weekends (this weekend and the weekend of July 18th) to install switches on the east side of the ElmontUBS Arena station. This work will necessitate eastbound trains skipping Hollis, Queens Village, and ElmontUBS Arena stations. Please continue to check the TrainTime app, as well as the MTA website, prior to traveling.
Additionally, on the weekend of July 25th, the MTA will be performing what is called a “cutover,” where the existing signal system is transitioned to a new, modernized system. This will require the LIRR to suspend all train service between Hicksville and Jamaica, with trains running along the Babylon Branch to reach Jamaica and vice versa. Once again, riders are encouraged to check the TrainTime app, as well as the MTA website, for more specific information about these service changes.
Floral Park Fire Department I would like to start by thanking the Floral Park Fire Department for their assistance during our FP Celebrates America’s 250th Firework Show.
For the month of June, the Fire Department responded to 28 calls for service. The Volunteer Rescue Company responded to 14 ambulance calls, in addition to the 28 fire calls, for a total



of 42 calls. They also responded to two mutual aid fire calls. NYU Langone responded to 80 calls.
This month marks the beginning of a new chapter for the FPFD. July 1 marked the launch of the new Junior Firefighters Program. There will be an Open House and “Meet and Greet” held this Sunday, July 12, at 10:00 AM in Firefighters Hall. Any teenager between the ages of 13 and 18 who is interested and their parents or guardians are invited to this event to invited to attend, learn more about the program and have any questions answered.
On Sunday, July 26, the department will host an Inaugural Breakfast at 10:00 AM in Firemen’s Hall. We are looking forward to meeting all interested Junior Firefighters.
Cultural
Arts Committee
Our Floral Park Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary celebration was an absolutely wonderful success. Our community came together to celebrate our amazing nation with food, fun, friends, and fireworks. Hundreds of residents spent time with friends and family, reconnected with old friends, and enjoyed a wonderful evening together.
I would like to thank our Community Sponsor, UBS Arena/New York Islanders, for their generous support of our event. Other sponsors include
NYRA; the law firm of Spellman, Gibbons, Pollizzi, Truncale & Trentacoste; Roadwork Ahead; the Peter Trentacoste Family; and Ship NYC.
Thanks also to the American Legion for the presentation of the colors; Delaney Baculima and Madelyn Mary Palma for leading residents in the Pledge of Allegiance; and Sophie Katcher for her beautiful a cappella rendition of the National Anthem.
I would like to thank our Recreation Superintendent, Ms. Darlene Lanza, and her assistant, Mrs. Gina King, for their tireless efforts behind the scenes. As the Recreation Center entered its busiest season, these two took on countless responsibilities, including coordinating with the Nassau County Arson and Bomb Squad and facilitating inspections by the Nassau County Fire Marshal, to name just a few. Without their dedication, this event could not have happened.
Thanks also to DPW Supervisor Kevin Pearsall and his team for all they did to ensure the success of this event. I would also like to thank the Floral Park Police Department for their preparation and dedication, ensuring that everyone enjoyed a safe and memorable evening. Finally, thank you to the Board of the North End Civic Association for its
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SATURDAY, JULY 25 6:30 PM

FREE SUMMER CONCERTS ATLANTA
RHYTHM SECTION FIREFALL & PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE
A semester in art at GC Drawing Board

Garden City Drawing Board recently concluded its spring semester, with students of all ages continuing to develop their observation skills and artistic technique. During the semester, students completed 78 finished works of art, with many additional projects still in progress that will continue into the fall.
Several Floral Park residents were students at the art program: Josie Baldwin, Ava Kramer, Cassidy O'Leary, Lily Barr, and Quinn & Bridget Redmond.
Students select their own subjects and work at their own pace, creating artwork in a variety of media, including graphite, colored pencil, watercolor, pastel, and alcohol markers. The semester's completed artwork reflected a wide range of interests, including 15 character drawings, 12 flowers, 8 birds, 7 still lifes, 5 dogs, and 4 each of cats, wild animals, farm animals, toys, and sports-themed drawings. Students also completed drawings of small pets, portraits, food, and reptiles.
A highlight of the semester was the equine life drawing event held in May, where students had the opportunity to interact with and draw live horses from observation. Working from life gave students valuable experience studying pro-
PARK
portion, anatomy, light, and form while drawing a subject that is constantly moving. The event was enjoyed by students and provided a memorable addition to the semester's curriculum.
While many students are children and teenagers, Garden City Drawing Board also welcomes adults who want to learn to draw or return to art after years away. No prior drawing experience is required, and instruction is individualized to each student’s interests and skill level. Adult classes provide a welcoming environment for artists of all experience levels to develop their skills and creativity.
Attention now turns to the upcoming fall semester and the annual Garden City Drawing Board Student Art Show, which will be held at the Garden city library this September. The exhibition will showcase student artwork created throughout the year and will include the presentation of the 3rd Annual Young Artist Awards, recognizing exceptional effort, growth, and artistic achievement.
Garden City Drawing Board looks forward to welcoming both returning and new students when the fall semester begins.
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RIGOROUS ACADEMICS
High achievement in every subject.


SCIENCE & MATH MASTERY
Hands-on learning. Real-world thinking.

ELITE HIGH SCHOOL PLACEMENT
Guidance for success at the next level.

LEADERSHIP & CHARACTER
Forming values. Building confident leaders.
A semester in art at GC Drawing Board


Love to write?
We are looking for writers in our community to compose news articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section. E-mail submissions: editor@gcnews.com




Pollination at Centennial Gardens and throughout the world

BY CHRIS WALSH, FPCS BEEKEEPER, VOLUNTEER, AND ANN GRIBBINS, FPCS VOLUNTEER
The following is a wonderful commentary By Chris Walsh, Floral Park Conservation Society member and an extremely interested Bee keeper at Centennial Gardens.
Much can be said for our pollinators, whether you’re describing insects or mammals both play an important role in our ecosystem.With no days off in sight, they wake up daily and strive to survive. No vacation, no celebrations, no excuses . It doesn’t take long to appreciate their willingness
to work. I’ve noticed this first hand with my honey bee colonies. Overtime isn’t optional for them it’s mandatory. While I myself have a profound respect, understanding and appreciation for the bee, many other insects and mammals deserve credit also for the pollination work they also contribute.
One might not realize it but even a mouse, running through a field of flowers shaking pollen and searching for a meal all contributes. Birds and bats are another great set of pollinators that could never be ignored. Even the wasp that annoys everyone at a backyard barbecue also plays an important role in pollination as It goes from a sweet dessert one day to landing on

the nearest patch of zinnias the next . Supporting Pollination can be extremely beneficial not only to the ecosystem but also to the plants themselves and our food supply. Whether it’s honey bees commercially pollinating almond groves in California, wild blueberries in Maine, pumpkins on Long Island or just a backyard beekeeper with a single hive it all makes a difference. I myself have read many books about honeybees and what flowers and plants they prefer etc. Personally I find only about half of it to be true. The pollinators themselves will tell you what they like. Walk around your local garden center during a spring bloom or nectar flow and notice what the bees or other pollinators are
attracted to. The pollinators themselves will tell you what they like It might actually surprise you.
MaryAnn Pugliese, who helps with the Women’s Club at Centennial Gardens shared her way of helping the birds. Everyday freeze a container of ice and then place it in your bird bath, the birds will have a nice clean, cool place to enjoy their hydration and splashing in the pool each day all summer long.
Along with several other volunteers the Gardens have become part of Floral Park for over twenty five years. Many people stroll through the Gardens every day.
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support of this event.
Floral Park Village Board reports
Our Summer Concert Series began on Friday, June 26, with two bands featuring talented local young musicians, Boxrooster and Cardinal Suites. Memorial Park was filled with people of all ages enjoying both cover songs and original music.
Our remaining concert schedule is as follows:
Friday, July 24 – City Stars Big Band
Friday, July 31 – Echoes of the Eagles
Friday, August 7 – Bob D’Amato with Bobby Plays Bobby
Friday, August 14 – Long Island Studio of Music, featuring talented young adults from Floral Park
Friday, August 21 – Andy Cooney
Bring a chair, a snack, and a friend.
We look forward to seeing you at the shows!
Trustee Michael Longobardi
Building Department
Here are some updates on the various construction projects in our Village:
The zoning hearing for the proposed Stella’s mixed-use development project was held on Wednesday, June 17. A decision has not yet been rendered. We remind everyone that the project has not been approved. Only the request for underground parking
has been approved. There are several more hearings and steps before the project receives either full approval or is denied. Please follow the Village Board reports for accurate information and visit the Village website for updates
Work on the West End Drainage Project is substantially complete. The contractor is currently addressing punch-list items.
A public hearing for the proposed restaurant at 99 Covert Avenue to modify the seating authorized under its Special Use Permit was held on June 16. A decision will follow.
The 57 Covert Avenue Mixed-Use Building construction is progressing well and remains on schedule for completion later this summer. Please note that intermittent sidewalk closures will occur at 57 Covert Avenue and 99 Covert Avenue over the coming weeks for sidewalk replacement.
The 50 Carnation Avenue (Storage Post) building permits have been issued, and construction has been approved to proceed. The construction start date will be announced once it has been scheduled.
Construction has commenced on the new homes within the subdivision at 32 Orchid Street and 116 Miller Avenue.
The 212 Jericho Turnpike (formerly Firestone) renovation work is ongoing.
The owner will operate an auto repair shop in the rear portion of the first floor and will have retail/commercial space in the remainder of the building.
The 60 Plainfield Avenue (King Arms Building) is still undergoing fire restoration. A pre-occupancy date is not currently available.
A Special Use application for Club Pilates, proposed at 170 Tulip Avenue, was heard this evening.
A public hearing for a proposed Verizon cellular antenna located at the DPW Garage was held this evening
Residents are reminded that any pool or spa-including temporary or inflatable pools-containing 20 inches or more of water depth or more than 200 gallons of water is considered a swimming pool. Under the New York State Building Code, required safety measures, including compliant fencing and pool alarms, must be installed prior to use. Please call the building department for more information and help further ensure the safest, most enjoyable environment possible.
Pool and Recreation
On Saturday, June 20, the Recreation Center hosted the Village’s 250th Semi-quincentennial Celebration. It was a great event enjoyed by many residents. Thank you again to Recreation Superintendent Darlene Lanza, Assis-
tant Gena King, and the entire Recreation staff, as well as the DPW staff, for all their hard work preparing the Recreation Center for such a great night. Thank you also to Trustee Stewart for all of her hard work in putting together such a wonderful event.
Week 2 programs have begun, and there is still time to sign up for Weeks 3 through 7. We want to remind all residents that a Village resident pool pass or leisure pass is required for entry into the park. All non-resident guests must be accompanied by a resident at all times.
Family Fun Friday Nights are back at the pool. This week is Movie Night, featuring the film Elf, along with D&J Specials at the concession stand. We are celebrating Christmas in July! Grandparents Day is this Saturday, July 11. All grandparents will be admitted to the pool free when accompanied by a Village member.
Town-Village Aircraft Safety & Noise Abatement Committee The next meeting is July 27, 2026, at Town Hall, 1 Washington Street in Hempstead. If you want to make a noise complaint regarding air traffic, you can call 1-800225-1071. You can also go to the village website, which has links under the TVASNAC Noise Complaint Contact Information page on our home page.
ELDER LAW & ESTATE PLANNING






Traveling by Road or Air? These Items Keep Your Adventure Memorable in a Good Way
KAREN RUBIN
Vacationers are taking to the roads and taking in special events for America’s 250th, state fairs, and sports events in huge numbers. Some new gear can make your trip that much safer, more comfortable and more satisfying. Indeed, travel is an adventure- the trick is to make the adventure (and inevitable difficulties that add spice to the experience) as manageable, even pleasurable as possible, and memorable in a good way.
One of my biggest fears has always been to lose track of my child when at some big, crowded festival, event or attraction, especially a nighttime concert. Xplora is a smartwatch designed to provide kids with a safe and age-appropriate way to stay connected, without a phone. Children can call and chat with pre-approved contacts, track their steps, capture moments with a built-in camera, and use GPS tracking for safety. Parents maintain full control through the Xplora Parent App. ($129.99+, Available at Amazon, Walmart, Target)
Another major fear I have is getting stuck on a dark road with a failed car battery. BoostHero Vehicle Jump Starter, Flashlight & Power Bank is an all-in-one portable safety tool, it has a vehicle 800A jump starter, 4-mode flashlight, and 6,000mAh power bank and fits into a compact bag.
The Olight ArkPro Ultra is an all-in-one travel safety tool. It’s flat, 115 grams, fits in a glovebox and does four things green laser for signaling, 1,700 lumen pure flood light that has a magnet for hands-free work under the hood, spotlight for navigating unfamiliar streets at night,

UV for checking hotel linens or leak detection, The CNC-machined O-Aluminum unibody is drop rated, USB-C rechargeable from any car port or power bank. (ArkPro Ultra Onyx Black MSRP: $129.99).
The Baton Series’s Moonlight mode doubles as a safe nightlight in unfamiliar rooms, and the dualswitch tail cap gives instant-on access in an emergency. The rotating hidden USB-C port charges from any travel adapter. Great for when traveling with children. (Baton 4 Pro $62.99; Baton Ultra $89.99).
Having an infant doesn’t have to snafu your lust for travel: LectroFan Alpha: With its small size, the Alpha sound machine is perfect for travel –whether you want to help baby sleep while you’re on the go, in the car or in the stroller, or to cover up noises in the hotel room, tent or cabin. It plays your choice of seven gentle,
soothing sounds, including a heart beat, two different fans, two white noise variations and two variations of ocean waves. It recharges with the included USB cable, and it plays for up to 40 hours per charge. The included clip makes it easy to attach to car seats, cribs, strollers ($29.95, Available on Amazon)
TernX Carry-On Luggage
Stroller is a hybrid stroller and certified carry-on suitcase that doesn’t require unpacking when switching modes. Ideal for airports, city travel, and quick getaways. It fits in overhead compartments; has18L storage capacity; is lightweight with independent front-wheel suspension; ergonomic reclining seat with expandable backrest for growing kids; has a UPF 50+ extendable sun canopy and adjustable five-point harness; is ASTM certified and transitions for everyday use at home ($699).
KEEP>GOING First Aid Kits are TSAapproved kits are stocked with 130+ everyday necessities in a compact case that fits easily into carryons, beach bags, glove compartments, and hiking packs. New Pet Kit keeps furry travel buddies covered too (www.KeepGoingFirstAid.com, Amazon).
Mozy Wearable Thermal Wrap’s patented thermal design traps and recirculates body heat for up to 500% more warmth than traditional outerwear, giving parents and kids a cozy buffer against cold. Waterresistant, windblocking, and handsfree, it clips around the waist to keep core and legs warm while you move. Perfect for sunrise hikes, boat rides, sports sidelines, and any adventure where temps dip unexpectedly. Visit www.getthemozy.com EF Adventures Partners with Backcountry: EF Adventures and Backcountry have formed a strategic partnership that gives EF Adventures’ travelers access to Backcountry Gearhead-curated gear lists, exclusive gear and apparel benefits, and Backcountry Summit Club Plus membership, while Backcountry customers gain exclusive deals and upgrades on world-class hiking, biking, and multi-adventure tours through EF Adventures. There are plans to curate and launch “The Backcountry Tour Collection, powered by EF Adventures” — a series of exclusive departures created specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. Learn more: efadventures.com/backcountry
© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
Week of July 19-25, 2026
We can spend our time under the stars trying to find constellation figures from mythological times, but we’ll always have limited success. If we really want to see pictures among the stars, I’m afraid we need to create our own.
You may remember from previous articles that constellations are simply areas of the sky, and do not resemble their namesakes. Corvus looks nothing like a crow. Trying to find a bear in Ursa Major? Fuhgetaboutit! And Scorpius, the scorpion ... well, OK, there will always be one exception.
No, if you want to see pictures among the stars, you must invent your own. And that’s where asterisms come in. An asterism is a group of stars that we connect in our imaginations to look like something.
Some of the easiest of these to create are geometrical figures. If you ever took a geometry class, you may recall that a point is the simplest of these -- a figure with no length, width or depth. In the sky, every star forms a point; connect any three of these, and you’ll create a triangle. One in particular, though, is different. It’s larger and brighter, and we can find it midway up in our eastern sky after dark. It’s called the Summer Triangle. It’s not a constellation but rather an asterism
The Great Summer Triangle
made of three stars from three separate constellations, but that doesn’t mean that early storytellers overlooked this prominent star grouping.
For example, an ancient Chinese love tale tells that the star Deneb represents a magpie bridge over the Milky Way, which allows the separated lovers Altair and Vega to be reunited on only one summer night each year.
The brightest of the stellar trio -and highest in the sky this week -- is Vega, the most prominent star in the constellation of Lyra, the harp. It lies 150 trillion miles from us (about 25 lightyears); in other words, the light arriving tonight from Vega began its journey toward our eyes in 2001.
The southeasternmost of the three stars is Altair, the brightest in the constellation of Aquila, the eagle. Its name comes from the Arabic Al Nasr al Tair, meaning in English “the flying eagle.” Altair lies about 96 trillion miles (17 lightyears) from us. Not only is Altair one of the nearest stars, it’s also one of the most rapidly spinning, completing one rotation in just 6.5 hours!
Finally, farthest to the northeast lies Deneb, marking the tail of the great swan Cygnus, more easily recognized as the Northern Cross. It’s not certain, but we think that Deneb could lie as far away as 2,600 lightyears from Earth. If it’s truly that distant, this star could be one of the most brilliant in our entire

The Summer Triangle is visible in the eastern sky after dark this week.
galaxy, with a luminosity equivalent to 200,000 suns, and would generate more light in one day than our sun has produced since the days of Marco Polo at the end of the 13th century!
With the overwhelmingly bright moonlight this week and next, the brightest stars are about all we’ll be
LOST IN SUBURBIA
Let
Them Eat Cake
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
If I’d had any choice in the matter, I certainly wouldn’t have planned to have my two kids’ and husband’s birthdays be only weeks apart. The first two just kind of worked out that way. The third was completely out of my control.
The problem with all these occasions has nothing to do with gifts or parties.
It’s about the cake. Or, more accurately, cakes.
Lots and lots of cakes.
Naturally, no one wants to share a birthday celebration, which means we have to do a separate cake for each birthday. Everyone likes the same cake, so we end up with three very rich, very chocolatey, chocolate fudge and buttercream cakes -- one per week for three weeks. Each cake lasts a week, so we basically start a new cake just as we finish the previous one. While this might sound like heaven for some people, for me it’s a disaster. It is the ominous end of my summer beach body. It is ...
The Enemy of the Thighs.
Of course, I don’t have to eat all the cakes, or even have more than one slice
of each cake. But they call to me from the kitchen:
”Forget your thighs. Pay no heed to your hips.”
It’s the siren cry of the bewitching baked goods. And I am under their sugary spell.
“You know, you could just throw it out after a day or so,” said my husband as I complained about my predicament while simultaneously shoving forkfuls of cake into my pie hole.
“But that would be a waste of money,” I replied. “And I need to save money to pay for the liposuction I’m going to need after I eat all this cake.”
He shook his head. He was immune to the call of the cake, and so was my son. I decided it couldn’t really be about willpower. Surely it was a genetic issue, and my extra X-chromosome was the one that weakened my resistance to cake.
As I worked my way through cake No. 2, I wondered how people who work at bakeries deal with being around cake all day. I thought that maybe they developed a sugar immunity from prolonged exposure. I decided to ask the
Cake Boss that question if I ever ran into him.
Meanwhile, back in cake central, I boxed up the cake and brought it back into the kitchen so it could lie in wait until the next time I passed by and it called out to me.
But as I crossed the threshold into the kitchen, the thigh gods intervened. With the large cake box in front of me, I didn’t notice the dog toys on the floor at the door to the kitchen, and I tripped over them, tossing the cake box across the room like a chocolate shot put. The cake box landed upside down, and when I went to retrieve it, I discovered that the whole thing had collapsed onto itself and was no longer a chocolate cake. Now it was a chocolate pancake.
My husband walked in and saw me cleaning up the mess quickly so the dog didn’t join the party.
“Well, it looks like you solved your cake problem,” he said.
I put the cake pancake back on the counter and shook my head.
“Don’t be silly,” I replied as I grabbed another fork from the drawer. “It ain’t pretty, but it still tastes great!”
able to see, but you can still head outdoors to check out the brightest of the summer -- the Summer Triangle.
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.
COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM
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
Why Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X are Leaving New York
For generations, New York has represented opportunity. From Wall Street to Broadway, Silicon Alley to worldclass universities, the Empire State has long attracted ambitious people looking to build careers. raise families, and create wealth. Yet today, a growing number of Gen Z, Mi1lennial, and even Gen X residents are packing up and leaving New York State in search of something they believe they can no longer find here: affordability, flexibility, and a better quality of life.
This migration isn’t simply a reaction to high housing costs. It reflects a broader shift in how younger generations define success, financial security, and personal freedom. While New York remains one of the world’s most dynamic places to live and work, it faces increasing competition from states offering lower taxes, less expensive housing, expanding job markets, and lifestyles that better align with evolving priorities.
For homeowners, buyers, investors, and policymakers, understanding these trends is becoming increasingly important because they are reshaping the future of real estate.
The Affordability Challenge
Housing affordability remains the single greatest reason many younger residents leave New York.
For many Gen Z professionals entering the workforce, purchasing a first home in many parts of New York feels almost impossible. Student loan debt, elevated mortgage rates, rising insurance costs, and historically high home prices have pushed ownership beyond reach for many firs time buyers.
Millennials, now largely in their prime family-forming years, often discover that what they can purchase elsewhere significantly exceeds what they can afford in New York. The same salary that buys a modest condominium in parts of Long Island may purchase a spacious four-bedroom home with a yard in North Carolina, Tennessee, or Texas.
Gen X homeowners face a different calculation. Many have accumulated substantial home equity but find themselves burdened by rising property taxes, increasing maintenance expenses, and escalating insurance premiums. Selling and relocating can dramatically reduce monthly expenses while allowing them to preserve or even grow retirement savings.
Property Taxes Continue to Influence Decisions
New York consistently ranks among the states with the highest property taxes. Long Island homeowners under-
stand this reality better than almost anyone.
Annual property tax bills exceeding $15,000, $20,000, or even $30,000 have become common in many communities. While excellent schools and municipal services justify much of these costs, many families question whether the financial trade-off still makes sense.
BY PHILIP A. RAICES

When relocating to states with significantly lower taxes, homeowners often discover they can own larger homes while reducing their annual housing expenses by thousands of dollars.
For retirees and middle-income households alike, these savings can become difficult to ignore.
Remote Work Changed Everything
Before 2020, many careers required employees to live near New York City. Today, remote and hybrid work have permanently altered that equation.
A software engineer, accountant, marketing executive, financial analyst, or graphic designer can now live hundreds, or often thousands, of miles from Manhattan while maintaining the same employer.
This newfound geographic flexibility has fundamentally changed relocation decisions.
Instead of asking, “Where can I find work?” many professionals now ask, “Where do I want to live?”
Increasingly, the answer isn’t New York.
Lifestyle Has Become More Important Than Location
The pandemic accelerated another significant trend.
People increasingly prioritize lifestyle over proximity to an office.
Many younger buyers seek larger homes, dedicated home offices, outdoor living space, lower traffic congestion, and greater access to recreational activities.
States throughout the Southeast and Mountain West actively market these lifestyle advantages.
Communities in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Texas continue attracting New Yorkers looking for wanner climates, newer housing, and lower living costs.
For many families, relocating also means spending less time commuting and more time with children.
That lifestyle improvement often
outweighs the prestige associated with a New York address.
Business Climate Matters
Entrepreneurs and small business owners frequently cite regulatory complexity and taxation as additional reasons for relocating.
Starting and operating a business in New York often involves higher operating costs than many competing states.
Commercial rents, insurance, payroll expenses, licensing requirements, and taxes can make expansion challenging.
Meanwhile, many southern and western states actively recruit businesses with tax incentives and streamlined permitting.
As companies relocate or expand elsewhere, employees often follow.
Gen Z Wants Flexibility
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z often values flexibility over permanence.
Many delay marriage, postpone homeownership, rent longer, and prioritize experiences over possessions.
If moving creates better career opportunities or improves financial stability, relocation becomes less emotionally difficult.
This generation is also highly mobile.
Many are comfortable changing cities multiple times throughout their careers.
For them, New York may represent one chapter-not necessarily the entire story.
Millennials Are Chasing Financial Stability
Millennials entered adulthood during the Great Recession and later navigated inflation, rapidly rising mortgage rates, and escalating housing costs.
Many delayed purchasing homes for years.
What Does This Mean for Long Island?
Despite outward migration, Long Island remains surprisingly resilient. Why?
Because demand continues exceeding supply.
Many homeowners remain reluctant to sell because replacing their existing low-interest mortgages would substantially increase monthly payments.
This “lock-in effect” has kept inventory historically low.
As a result! even with residents leaving New York, home prices in many Long Island communities have remained remarkably stable.
However, demographics are gradually changing.
More older homeowners are downsizing.
Some younger buyers are relocating elsewhere.
Luxury markets continue attracting affluent buyers, while first-time buyers increasingly struggle with affordability.
Builders continue facing limited land availability, rising construction costs, and restrictive zoning.
These factors collectively support home values despite population shifts.
Can New York Reverse the Trend?
New York retains extraordinary advantages. Its educational institutions remain among the world’s finest.
Its healthcare system, financial sector, arts, culture, and transportation infrastructure remain unmatched.
The challenge is making these advantages financially attainable for future generations.
Policies encouraging housing construction, increasing affordability, streamlining development approvals, and reducing excessive costs could help retain younger residents.
Expanding housing options-including accessory dwelling units, thoughtfully planned mixed use developments, and appropriately located higher-density housing-could provide attainable entry points for first-time buyers while respecting neighborhood character.
The one major issue and issue that no one talks about is our precious aquifers where all our water is stored and derived from. The dilemma in solving our slowly but surely dwindling and diminishing “ftesh11 water supply is an acute and extremely serious and detrimental problem that absolutely must be addressed.
It is being effected and impacted by salt water infiltration and intrusion as well as nitrates from the utilization of fertilizers on farms and home lawns. This problem must be solved in order for life on Long Island to continue to flourish, expand and survive!
Final Thoughts
Every generation defines success differently.
For today’s Gen Z professionals, Millennial, and Gen X families, success increasingly means financial flexibility, borne ownership, and a balanced lifestyle.
Many no longer believe those goals
Continued on page 5
BY TOM MARGENAU
Based on some recent emails I received, I think it’s time to bring up again a message I’ve delivered more than a few times in the past: Don’t worry. Be happy. And that message is meant for those people who are so darn intent on squeezing every last nickel they can out of their Social Security benefits.
I get the fact that people want to get all the benefits for which they are eligible. But I am talking about those folks who seem absolutely obsessed with the issue. I swear some people must lie awake nights and worry that they might make a decision they think will cost them thousands of dollars in lost benefits, but that is actually usually way less.
Because when it comes to Social Security, most of these folks are not between a rock and a hard place. Instead, they are between a pillow and a soft place. In other words, they really can’t go wrong no matter which Social Security decision they make. I’ve saved up a few emails from some of these readers, and I will share them with you today.
Q: I will turn 70 on Aug. 2, 2026. I want to make sure I get the full 32% bonus for delaying my retirement until that age. I’m really afraid that if I file for those benefits a little early, like in July, for example, that they will start my checks in July and I will lose my bonus. Should I wait until Aug. 2 to file?
A: First things first. In your case, the delayed retirement bonus would be about 21%, not 32%. I will explain that in a minute. And it sounds like you think that the 21% delayed retirement bonus is an all-or-nothing deal. In other words, you assume you get an extra 21% added to your monthly benefits if you wait until exactly age 70 to file. But that is not how it works.
Instead, the delayed retirement credits are calculated this way. You get an extra two-thirds of 1% added to your Social Security benefit rate for each month you delay retirement beyond your full retirement age. In your case, your FRA was age 66 and 4 months. If I’m doing my math right, that means you reached FRA in December 2022. So, for example, had you filed for your benefits in December 2023, 12 months after your FRA, you would have received an 8% bonus. (12 times two-thirds of 1% equals 8%.)
But if you wait until age 70 to file, that is 32 months beyond your FRA, giving you a roughly 21% delayed retirement bonus.
So, you can file for benefits tomorrow and just tell the Social Security people you want your benefits to start in August when you are 70. And if the worst-case scenario happens and they mistakenly start your benefits right away, you would end up getting about a 20% bonus instead of 21%. In other words, you would lose that 1% in your
SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOU
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
ongoing benefit rate. But you would have received one extra Social Security check, probably worth several thousand dollars. As I said, you are between a pillow and a soft place, so don’t fret it.
Q: I will be 67 next year. I have worked all my life and have always paid taxes on the maximum amount of earnings that could be taxed for Social Security purposes. But my employer just downsized and I won’t make the max this year. So now I won’t get the maximum Social Security benefit. I’m just sick over this. I’ve been waiting for a long time to get this maximum benefit and now it’s gone. Can I pay the difference myself to get back to the maximum?
A: No, you can’t pay the taxes on your own. But there is absolutely nothing special about the so-called “maximum” Social Security benefit. It is not like you get some kind of bonus for reaching that milestone. Like everyone else, you simply get a retirement benefit rate that is based on your highest 35 years of inflation-indexed earnings. So if you come up a little shy of the maximum taxable earnings this year, you might make up for it by having earned the maximum in all those prior years -- especially since those past years are adjusted for inflation.
But if you don’t end up with the maximum benefit -- so what? What’s the big deal if, instead of getting $4,152 per month, maybe you would start getting $4,142 per month? I don’t think that’s worth losing any sleep over.
And I need to make one more important point about this whole maximum retirement benefit business. That $4,152 figure I just quoted is the maximum monthly retirement benefit for 2026.
But that does not mean it is the absolute maximum amount of monthly Social Security benefits that anyone can get from the government. Indeed, millions of retirees get much more than that. $4,152 is the maximum benefit payable to someone turning full retirement age in 2026 who has paid taxes on maximum Social Security earnings for 35 years.
But many seniors work well beyond the age of their FRA, and they get much more than $4,152 per month because of delayed retirement credits paid up until age 70 and because the extra earnings they add to their Social Security account after FRA may be used to increase their monthly retirement check.
Q: I will be 63 in October. I want my benefits to begin then. I understand I will get about 80% of my benefits if I do that. I don’t want to take any more reduction than that. How can I make sure my checks start in October?
A: You can do whatever you want to do, of course. After all, they are your Social Security benefits. So when you fill out your retirement application, just
make sure you indicate October 2026 as the month you want your Social Security checks to start.
But frankly, I am a little confused why you are so worried that your benefits start exactly at age 63. Your monthly benefit rate is reduced by about one-half of 1% for each month they are taken before your FRA:
You were right that if you take your benefits at 63, you would get about 80%. But if, for example, they were to start a couple of months earlier, you’d get maybe 78 or 79%. In other words, you’d lose
a few bucks per month, but you’d gain one or two extra Social Security checks. Once again, it’s a pillow or a soft place. If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.
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CROSSWORD PUZZLE
When ice cream & kitchen sinks always hit the spot
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
Every time summer rolls around I can’t help but think of ice cream. It’s one of my favorite desserts when summer is here and even if it’s not dinnertime I think of ice cream as a perfect cool treat. Having a dish of ice cream when it’s summer and I’ve got all the time in the world to enjoy it ties with getting my other cool treat - a frozen coffee.
Leisurely playing tennis and croquet as a kid visiting Spring Lake, N.J., my family and I would have fun then enjoy our favorite ice cream. As a young adult I remember heading out to Montauk with friends, staying for a long weekend and after enjoying a good dinner we’d get some ice cream to go and sit on the beach watching the sun set. In the summer the sun sets over the Long Island Sound at around 8:30 p.m. - perfect timing for some pretty scenery on “The End.”
Among my friends and relatives, one debate that always comes up is which flavor to get if we’re ordering out and which toppings to add to make that ice cream cone or dish of ice cream just perfect. Whipped cream, maraschino cherries, sprinkles, chocolate syrup and nuts are all great - just as the cooks say - and they add a special something or je ne sais quoi as they say in France.
I’ve discovered over the years that people are partial to certain flavors and it makes their day if they end up getting the dish of ice cream they want. Each one of us has their first, second and third choices - just in case the restaurant is out of that particular flavor - so I kind of know what my friends, relatives and I like when it comes to ice cream treats.
My sister, Susan, likes ordering a

banana split around the time of her birthday. She says she goes all out because those of us who are related to her know that on typical days Susan likes eating a dish of Neapolitan ice cream - those distinct layers of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream. So she says she’ll order the “kitchen sink” at her favorite ice cream shop and have her friends and relatives join in because a kitchen sink is an awfully big portion.
A great big bowl of eight scoops of ice cream, it’s an over-the-top portion that has every imaginable topping. We laugh about getting the kitchen sink because it’s so far out there - and because we’ve never gotten it.
While my sister, Michelle sets her sights on pralines and cream and she is always pleased as punch when they have it. If by any chance they don’t she’s disappointed but Michelle’s second choice always seems to be cookies & cream. And butter pecan is her third choice.
I tell Michelle that her choices aren’t the usual run of the mill vanilla, chocolate or strawberry and we both laugh as she says when it comes to ice cream, she knows what she likes.
Mint chocolate chip ice cream is my favorite - always, always, always. Second place goes to strawberry and third place is rocky road. That’s a mix
of smooth chocolate, crunchy almonds and fluffy marshmallows. A whipped cream topping on my rocky road always hits the spot.
My friend, Kelly, likes chocolate chip ice cream and yes, disappointment sets in if the place doesn’t have it. Her second choice is chocolate and if a dish of chocolate ice cream isn’t available, she likes moose tracks ice cream - that vanilla ice cream along with peanut butter cups and fudge - which was created in Marquette, Michigan.
Smiling when she mentions moose tracks ice cream, I tell Kelly an interesting bit of trivia. The flavor was named after a mini golf course located right down the street from the very first ice cream shop to offer it. And that was in July 1988. Who knew?
My brother, Greg, likes eating coffee ice cream because he’s a coffee aficionado or fanatic - and my other brother, Phil, likes fudge swirl. Our oldest brother, Peter, likes black cherry ice cream with whipped cream and, naturally, a cherry on top.
Once in a while someone says they like sorbet better than ice cream so we always make sure the place we’re going has plenty of choices. Sometimes they want gelato or sherbet.
My friend, Nicole, has made homemade ice cream for her family for years and I’ve envied her ability to pull an ice
cream maker from the cupboard, add a few ingredients, push a few buttons and presto, there’s a cool dessert that pretty much everyone likes.
I envy her because as long as she has the ingredients on hand the whole project goes quickly and because Nicole is so organized she never forgets things she needs at the supermarket, meaning she always has the right ingredients in her house.
Anyway, when we were kids, Nicole’s mom showed us how to make homemade ice cream. When we were nine years old, Mrs. Murphy pulled out a great big bowl and said she needed just three ingredients - chilled heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer to whip the heavy cream in the bowl, she added the condensed milk and vanilla extract and mixed it thoroughly.
Then Mrs. Murphy covered the mixture and put the bowl in the freezer overnight or from 6-8 hours. She used a measuring cup to make sure the proportions were just right but Nicole and I didn’t watch the exact measurements, we were amazed at how Mrs. Murphy worked her magic. Taking it out the next day, it made a delicious ice cream treat.
She told us later that the way she made it was by using the simple “no-churn method” - she did it the old-fashioned way. These days Nicole uses an ice cream maker which is handy and the result is a soft-serve type of ice cream. It’s light and creamy.
Mrs. Murphy always made some homemade ice cream for each family member’s birthday and for mine, too, every July. We’re all happy about that and we don’t even mention getting a kitchen sink.
Continued from page 3
are easiest to achieve in New York.
Yet New York remains one of the nation’s most desirable places to live. For many residents, the cultural richness, career opportunities, schools, healthcare, and vibrant communities continue to outweigh the costs.
The challenge for New York, and particularly for Long Island, is ensuring that future generations don’t feel they must leave in order to build the life they envision. If the state can improve affordability while preserving the qualities that make it exceptional, it has every opportunity to remain a destination not only for dreamers. but
also for those determined to stay and put down roots.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:

National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate). Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions.
National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/ no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.com
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Blueberries make for flavorful additions to cookies, too
Butter Cookies with Blueberries

Cookies are a versatile treat that can incorporate a wide range of ingredients. There’s no rules when it comes to making cookies, which means amateur bakers can take to their kitchens and whip up a batch of these beloved treats with whatever they have on hand in the pantry or refrigerator. Blueberries might be a go-to ingredient when baking a pie at
3⁄4 cup butter, softened
2⁄3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons light corn syrup

1 pinch salt
3 large eggs
11⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1) Preheat the oven to 400° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2) In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
3) Add the flour, baking soda, almond meal, and spices. Stir to form a smooth mixture; fold in the dried blueberries.
home, but they also make for a delicious addition to a freshly baked batch of cookies. This recipe for “Butter Cookies With Blueberries” from Lines+Angles is a testament to the versatility of blueberries when it comes to crafting homecooked baked goods. Makes 20 to 24 servings
1 teaspoon baking soda
2⁄3 cup almond meal
1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger
1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1⁄2 cup dried blueberries, chopped
4) Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a round piping tip. Pipe 1-inch rounds onto the baking sheet (or use a teaspoon to place small mounds of the mixture on the sheet.)
5) Bake until golden and set, 10 to 15 minutes.
6) Remove from the oven and carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to finish cooling.








Inventory remains low, and qualified buyers are actively searching for homes in Floral Park. If you’ve been considering selling, now may be an ideal time to explore your options.
Proud to be recognized among the Top 1.5% of Real Estate Professionals Nationwide, I’m committed to connecting motivated buyers with homeowners who are ready for their next chapter.
Eager Buyer A Eager Buyer B
<$1,200,000
One-Family
3-4 Bedrooms
1.5+ Bathrooms
Willing to do some work
Eager Buyer E & F
<$400,000 Co-op
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom Move in Ready

<$1,200,000
Legal 2 Family
3+ Bedrooms
2+ Full Bathrooms Move in Ready Preferred
Eager Renter A
<$4,000 per month
2 Bedrooms
1+ Bathroom
2 Parking Spots
Laundry on Premise Move in Ready Preferred
Eager Buyer C
<$1,000,000
Legal 2 Family 3+ Bedrooms
2+ Full Bathrooms Move in Ready Preferred
Eager
Full House Renter B
<$4,000 per month
3+ Bedrooms
1.5+ Bathrooms
Parking Needed
JLC School Move in Ready Now

Eager Buyer D
<$950,000
One-Family 3+ Bedrooms
1.5+ Full Bathrooms
Willing to do work
Eager Renter C
<3,000 per month
2 Bedrooms
1+ Bathroom
2 Parking Spots Move in Ready Preferred
Call me at 516-524-2781 for a confidential, no-pressure conversation to discuss your home’s value and whether selling is the right move for you.


