Syosset Advance (6/25/21)

Town honors response team

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino (third from left) honored members of the town's COVID Response Team. Honorees included: Bradley Panetta, Nicole Leroux, Sue Cowley, Kathleen DeTurris, Tom Bradke, and Team Captain Ralph Raymond.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino  recently recognized the members of the Town’s COVID-19 Response Team as “Employees of the Month” for the month of June. The Supervisor noted that the crew’s selfless commitment to the employees and residents of the Town of Oyster Bay has resulted in a distinguished record of excellence over the past year, during some very difficult times. These dedicated individuals were tasked

with creating a system for contact tracing, setting up testing procedures, facilitating the administration of vaccines and establishing protocols for each and every employee in the Town. Honorees included Bradley Panetta, Nicole Leroux, Sue Cowley, Kathleen DeTurris, Tom Bradke, and Team Captain Ralph Raymond.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, many in our community extended themselves to help

others and the enduring legacy of these times will undoubtedly be the way that people like the Town’s COVID-19 Team took action and made a positive difference at a time when it was most needed,” said Supervisor Saladino. “It has been a true comfort to know that you have gone above and beyond the call of duty to keep the Town of Oyster Bay employees, families and residents safe.”

Town: Grants available for back rent, utilities

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced the availability of $16 million in Federal funds for those facing housing insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although this rental assistance program is being administered by the Long Island Housing Partnership (LIHP), qualifying residents can now register at www.oysterbaytown.com/ rentalassistance. After registration, the LIHP will contact applicants to obtain documentation and information necessary to secure these funds.

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino stated, “These Federal funds were granted to the Town of Oyster Bay to help residents recover from economic hardships created by the pandemic and government shutdowns. This rental assistance program provides critical funding to prevent homelessness and ensure those experiencing financial hardship are able to recover and rebuild their lives while having a stable place to call home.”

The program is designed to assist residents with current and prospective rent, arrears for utilities and home energy costs, and other expenses related to housing such as rental security deposits.  Assistance under this program could be provided for up to 12 months of payments, with an additional three months if necessary to ensure

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Chamber plans return of annual Syosset Street Fair

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

The Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce had an exciting return to in-person networking events last week as Chamber-member restaurant Butera’s of Woodbury at 7903 Jericho Turnpike hosted 23 Chamber member businesses, and several of its 2021 board members, for an afternoon outdoors under a tent in Woodbury Village plaza.

The event, held on Monday June 14 on what Chamber board member, Membership and Networking Chair Alan Goldberg, the two-time Businessperson of the Year, called “a gorgeous afternoon.”

“I reached out to Laurie Butera to see if she would like to host our first in-person networking Meeting since March 2020, and of course she said yes. Appetizers including their famous

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Vigilance essential in fair housing

To the Editor:

I applaud the New York State Assembly for overwhelmingly voting on Tuesday, June 8 to approve legislation that will confront the scourge of housing discrimination.

New York State Assembly Member Kimberly Jean-Pierre sponsored and secured passage of a measure that both increases fines against those who commit discrimination and reinvests those funds into equity-boosting causes. Under her innovative approach, the statewide anti-housing discrimination fund will support local housing nonprofits, human rights commissions and the Office of the New York State Attorney General as it conducts fair-housing challenges to identify and eliminate this pernicious behavior.

This recent action by the State is one of many important actions consistent with our shared mission to ensure everyone has fair and equal oppor-

tunities to participate in New York’s housing market.

As part of Nassau County’s response to the publication of Newsday’s award-winning “Long Island Divided” housing discrimination exposé, I proudly sponsored and secured passage of legislation that created Nassau County’s Housing Discrimination Hotline in 2019. If you or your loved ones ever experience illegal discrimination in Nassau County, I urge you to call 1-888-412-0474 and file a report immediately. The phone lines are open weekdays 9 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

I remain committed to doing all I can to eliminate the pervasive segregation that has been allowed to fester on Long Island for generations and invite you to join me in this effort.

Arnold W. Drucker Nassau County Legislator (16th LD) Plainview

Live streaming book discussion from Syosset Library

Virtual Book Discussion:

“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”  by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Join Donna Burger, Readers’ Services Librarian, on Tuesday, June 29 at 3:00 p.m. for a virtual book discussion of the New York Times bestseller,  “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn

Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Copies of the book will be available at the second floor Readers’ Services Desk one month before the program.  No registration required. Join via Zoom from the link on the Live Streaming Events Calendar:  https://www.syossetlibrary. org/live-streaming.

Let your voice be heard!

Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss? Want to respond to something you saw in our paper? Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!

Town to hold “Salute to Veterans” event on July 13

The Town of Oyster Bay is seeking to honor veterans as part of the annual Veterans Awards Ceremony, and nominations are currently being sought. The ceremony will take place as part of the Town’s “Salute to Veterans” event featuring Lee Greenwood, which is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, July 13, at 7:30 p.m. at TOBAY Beach. Residents are invited to nominate extraordinary individuals who have made a difference in our veteran communities.

“In these uncertain times, I wanted to make sure we found an especially meaningful way to recognize those who bravely and selflessly served our nation. This holds special significance this year, as most Memorial Day activities are cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to nominate extraordinary individuals who have made a difference in our veteran communities. An important part of the celebration includes the Town’s Veteran Volunteer Awards, which honors our veterans and those who advocate on their behalf.”

“The ‘Salute to Veterans’ concert provides the ideal backdrop to recognize and honor our veterans and individuals who continue to actively serve in the community and advocate for issues and concerns relative to veterans. The Town is proud to recognize and honor amazing individuals who have helped to shape our communities for the better through their continuing advocacy and exemplary community service each year,” Supervisor Saladino said. “The last year has been incredibly tough due to the global pandemic, and our veterans and elderly have been severely impacted. Now that we have done our part to flatten the curve and we have seemed to turn a corner and protected our most vul-

nerable populations, I am delighted to honor these deserving individuals at this upcoming event. I hope residents will consider submitting a nomination of an individual who deserves special recognition for their continued efforts on behalf of the veteran community.”

Nominations are being accepted in three different categories of recognition: Veterans Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a veteran), Friend of Veterans Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a non-veteran), and Lifetime Achievement Award (awarded to a veteran or a non-veteran).  All entries must include a supporting narrative describing the nominee’s on-going veterans related activities, and all nominees must be Town residents. The Town will then recognize the efforts of outstanding individuals who have impacted the lives of our veterans in extraordinary ways yet again this year

“Over the past year, our great nation has come together to face COVID-19, so honoring our veterans carries an especially poignant message of unity and our love of freedom. I hope residents will consider submitting a nomination of an individual who deserves special recognition for their continued efforts on behalf of the veteran’s community,” Supervisor Saladino said. “The Town is proud to recognize and honor amazing individuals who have helped to shape our communities for the better through their continuing advocacy and exemplary community service each year. I look forward to recognizing these outstanding individuals, especially after a year where so many of us have gained a greater appreciation of our freedom and all of the things that unite us as a Nation.”

To obtain a nomination form for the Veterans Awards, please visit www. oysterbaytown.com/honorvets or call (516) 797-7925 for an application.  All nominations must be submitted or postmarked no later than June 14, 2021.

9-year-old uses piggy bank money to help healthcare workers

Desiree Mohammadi of Syosset (left) visited healthcare workers at Northwell Health, including Sandra Linsay, the first nurse in New York to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

BY GARY SIMEONE

It is a major understatement to call 9-year-old Desiree Mohammadi of Syosset a determined and altruistic child. The precocious Berry Hill Elementary school student was recently featured on “ CBS News ” for donating all of her piggy bank money to frontline workers.

“ It was last year during April in the heart of the pandemic that she saw that the healthcare workers weren't getting the respect they deserved for all of their hard work, ” said Rose Mohammadi, Desiree ’ s mother. “ She wanted to do something nice for them so she donated all of her piggy bank money, fifty-three dollars, so they

could buy snacks from the hospital ’ s vending machine. ”

She said that Desiree also wrote a long letter to the CEO of Northwell Health Hospital systems, saying that healthcare workers should be treated better and that she wanted to let them know she was thinking about them.

Rose said that Desiree ’ s uncle was a pulmonologist, and was working in the ICU at the hospital in the middle of the pandemic last year.

“ I think that ’ s what prompted her to do this because she has a very special bond with her uncle, and she wasn't able to see him for a long time and couldn ’ t even FaceTime him because he was in the hazmat suit, ” said Mohammadi.

Rose said that Northwell Health CEO Michael Dowling was so grateful for Desiree's contributions that he showed his appreciation by helping her buy a telescope and an American Girl doll that she wanted.

The American Girl Place store in Manhattan also heard about Desiree ’ s good deed, and rewarded her with a birthday party at the store earlier this month and a shopping spree.

That was not the only good fortune that came the little girl ’ s way. Last Monday, she was granted her wish of becoming a doctor for a day at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center.

“ They provided her with her own white jacket with her name on it and she was given the stethoscope, thermometer and blood pressure monitor just like a real doctor. She was absolutely beaming with happiness. ”

Desiree also made the rounds at the hospital, meeting all of the various doctors, and she was introduced to the first nurse in New York who received the COVID-19 vaccine, Sandra Lindsay.

Retired Jericho attorney trades cases for scarves

BY GEORGE HABER

A retired attorney who lived more than thirty years in Princeton Park in Jericho has found a new calling in designing, painting and selling silk scarves.

“I always had a love of painting from the time I was in law school,” says Richard Weiner, who now lives in Bay Terrace.

“But it was only since I retired that I began painting full-time.” In addition to scarves, Weiner paints abstracts and portraits.

Ten of his paintings will be exhibited in July at an art show in Venice, Italy.

Weiner imports the silk he paints on from China. “It’s the finest quality silk in the world,” he said, and his original designs are hand-drone in acrylic.

The scarves have been sold in stores in Manhattan, Long Island and Sausalito, California. He has sent scarves to frequent scarf-wearing celebrities and notables, including TV anchor Mika Brzezinski, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, and COVID expert Dr. Deborah Birx.

“I don't know if they’ve worn them," Weiner says. "I don’t watch much television.”

His wife, Alice, however, is more optimistic. “I once saw Mika on her

Senior

Cassidy Baltazar, a junior from General Douglas MacArthur High School in the Levittown Public Schools, recently advanced to the finals of the annual Roger Rees Awards for Excellence in Student Performance and was named Up-and-Coming Actress for the second year in a row for her role as Anna in “Frozen Jr.”

Each year, the Roger Rees Awards Program recognizes outstanding student performances and achievements in high school musical theatre. To be considered for a prestigious Roger Rees Award this year, the performance of “Frozen Jr.” was judged by three separate adjudicators. The top 25 females and top 25 males from high schools across New York City, Suffolk, Nassau, Rockland, Orange and Westchester counties were selected as nominees.

Five MacArthur students were selected as part of the top 50 nominees: Cassidy Baltazar (Anna), Fiona VonThaden (Elsa), Dylan Renart (Kristoff), John Munro (Hans) and Joseph Stallone (Olaf). Each nominee worked with Broadway professionals in acting and vocal coaching sessions and from the final 50, 12 were selected for additional recognition.

Attorney-turned-artist Richard Weiner describes his latest scarf.

Morning Joe program wearing a scarf that looked like one of Richard’s. But she never sent him any acknowledgment, so we can’t be sure.”

Further information on Weiner’s scarves is available at Richard Weiner creations (RWeinercreations) on Etsy

Baltazar was also honored as Up-andComing Actress in 2020 for her role in the high school’s production of “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown.” The district congratulates her on earning this outstanding achievement once again.

Congratulations to the South Woods Middle School Class of 2021

Over the course of two outdoor ceremonies held at the Syosset track and field on June 21, eighth-graders from South Woods Middle School received their certificates as they officially moved up to Syosset High School.

Following a prelude by the South Woods Jazz Band, the Pledge of Allegiance and a virtual performance of the Star Spangled Banner by the South Woods Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Principal Michelle L. Burget addressed students, Board of Education members, administration and the audience.

“You have faced hardships unknown to any other graduating class in my 18 years of speeches.  And through it all, you have impressed me, your teachers, and your parents with your ability to connect with and

support one another,” remarked Ms. Burget as she spoke directly to the students. “You are the changemakers our future needs, and you have brought a kind of joy to our school that we sorely needed this year. As truly proud as I am today, I know that pride will be eclipsed thousands of times by your accomplishments in the future that awaits you.”

In addition to their certificates, several students were granted the Presidential Award for Educational Excellence, Presidential Award for Educational Achievement, and various Community Awards. After receiving their certificates and being named Syosset High School freshman, the students joined family and friends to celebrate their next chapter in their educational journey.

Photos courtesy of the Syosset School District

DISCOVER THE FINEST IN SENIOR LIVING

The Bristal Assisted Living has been serving seniors and their families in the tri-state area since 2000, offering independent and assisted living, as well as state-of-the-art memory care programs. We are committed to helping residents remain independent, while providing peace of mind that expert care is available, if needed. Designed with seniors in mind, each of our communities feature exquisitely appointed apartments and beautiful common areas that are perfect for entertaining. On-site services and amenities include daily housekeeping, gourmet meals, a cinema, salon, plus so much more. Discover a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and a luxurious lifestyle that you will only find at The Bristal.

Hicksville seniors celebrate with car parade

Ready for graduation!

Seniors at Hicksville High School were celebrated by high school staff on Monday, June 7 with a car parade. Teachers and staff members lined up along Division Avenue outside of the high school. As decorated cars drove by, teachers waved, held posters, played music and cheered on

the graduating students. Principal Raymond Williams also stood along the road to congratulate each car that passed by.

The parade marked a celebration for seniors, just weeks ahead of graduation.

Congratulations, seniors!

Laurel Hollow sculptor casts high-profile portraits in bronze

Sculptor Heather Maione created bronze portraits of President Clinton and Nobel Laureate Dr. James Watson of the Cold Spring Harbor Lab

BY GEORGE HABER

How did a bronze bust of former President Bill Clinton, crafted by a sculptor in Laurel Hollow, wind up in the Clinton Museum and Library in Little Rock, Arkansas?

Let the sculptor, Heather Maione, tell you:  “A neighbor of mine is a friend of the Clintons,” she says, “and he wanted to present a bronze portrait sculpture as a surprise gift to President Clinton. Having seen my work, he commissioned me to do the bust as a surprise gift. The

piece was eventually acquired by the Clinton Museum and Library in Little Rock, Arkansas.”

Living near the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Maione became friendly with personnel at the lab. “I was asked to do a portrait in bronze for Dr. James Watson [Nobel Prize Winner and former president of the lab] on his ninetieth birthday.”

“He sat with me for almost an hour in his home,” Maione recalls, “and I was able to really appreciate his personality beyond the photos.”

Maione, who grew up in Syosset, was a successful illustrator of children’s books for various publishers when she began pursuing her true love—sculpting.

“The first bust I created was of my art professor many years ago while I was on a SUNY Buffalo semester abroad in Siena, Italy,” she says, “and he inspired me to do more of this.”

Maione recently finished a clay bust commissioned by Agnes Gund, former president of the Museum of Modern Art, and a renowned philanthropist in New York City. “The clay bust is now at a foundry, being cast into bronze. The final step is to apply a patina; then it will be mounted on a block of granite. It should be ready by August.”

Discussing her work, Maione says, “My goal is to capture the essence of one’s unique spirit and beauty in the permanence of bronze or other materials.”

Further information about her work is available at heathermaione.com.

Knights plan live concert for August 28

The Joseph Barry Knights of Columbus plan a live in-person concert with The Acchords on Saturday, August 28 from 7:30–11:30 p.m.

Enjoy an open bar, sandwiches and wraps, salad, coffee and desserts.

$40 per person. Mail checks payable to: Joseph Barry Knights of Columbus, 45 Heitz Place, Hicksville NY 11801

Casual attire, reservations required. Attendance is limited to 150 persons due to NYS Health Dept. regulations. No money will be accepted at the door.

Call Brian 516-457-6190 or e-mail roadrunnerbrian@aol.com

ATTENTION STUDENTS!

We invite you to send details of your academic achievements, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be featured in our paper!

Submissions from students of all ages are welcome!

This Week at the Syosset Public Library

Friday, June 25 at 12:00 p.m.

Donna Freitas!

Virtual Author Lunch

Grab your lunch and zoom in to meet Donna Freitas, author of “ The Nine Lives of Rose Napolitano. ” No registration needed. Click on Virtual Calendar for Zoom link - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.

Monday, June 28 at 9:15 a.m.

Virtual Dancersize with Carol Rodriguez

This fitness class combines aerobic exercise with dance movements. Register at www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming

Monday, June 28 at 2:00 p.m.

Make Em Laugh: A History of Movie Comedy from Charlie Chaplin to Mel Brooks (Virtual Lecture) Presenter, Brian Rose, retired professor of communications, Fordham University

Since the beginning of motion pictures, making audiences laugh has been one of the film industry’s chief box office attractions. Skilled acrobatic comedians like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin were enormously popular in the silent era, as were their verbally dexterous talking picture successors the Marx Brothers and W.C. Fields. Comedy exploded once movies could talk, from screwball to romance to social satire to musicals. This lecture will look at the major highlights of screen comedies over the last 125 years, illustrated with more than 40 examples of Hollywood’s funniest films. No registration needed. Click on Virtual Calendar for Zoom link - www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming.

Tuesday, June 22 at 3:00 p.m.

Virtual Book Discussion:

“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid Join Readers’ Services Librarian Donna Burger to discuss this

acclaimed historical fiction novel. Book is available at the 2nd floor Readers’ Services desk one month before the program. No registration needed. Click on Virtual Calendar for Zoom link - www.syossetlibrary. org/live-streaming.

Tuesday, June 29 at 6:15 p.m.

Virtual Yoga for Relaxation

Learn basic yoga postures and relaxation techniques from the comfort of your own home.

Register at www.syossetlibrary. org/live-streaming

Wednesday, June 30 at 1:00 p.m.

Simply Fit with Marilyn Bunger

This class is especially suited for the older adult, and combines the basics of Simply Stronger and Simply Stretch. You will need light hand weights for the class. Register at www.syossetlibrary.org/ live-streaming

Thursday, July 1 at 2:00 p.m.

The Progressives and the Constitution (Virtual Lecture) Presenter: Professor James Coll, adjunct professor of American and Constitutional history at Nassau Community College and Hofstra University and a retired NYPD detective. In this lecture, we will analyze how these reformers championed amendments that would structurally transform the Constitution to fit their goals and how their efforts continue to impact our lives today. No registration needed. Click on Virtual Calendar for Zoom link – www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.

Thursday, July 1 at 7:30 p.m. P Djeli Clark!

Virtual Author Visit & BYOB

Grab your favorite summer beverage and zoom in to meet P. Djeli Clark author of “Ring Shout.” No registration needed. Click on Virtual Calendar for Zoom link - www.syossetlibrary.org/live-streaming.

SUNY Morrisville recently announced that the following local students were named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2021 semester:

Princess Osei of Jericho, who is majoring in associate degree nursing.

Amaya Small,of Hicksville, NY, who is majoring in applied psychology

To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a 3.0 to 3.99 gradepoint average for the semester and complete 12 credit hours.

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SUNY Morrisville recently announced that Eileen R O’Hare of Hicksville was named to the President’s List for the Spring 2021 semester. Eileen is majoring in equine science - BT.

To be named to the President’s List, a student must achieve a perfect 4.0 average for the semester and complete 12 credit hours.

n Rebecca Muha of Hicksville was among the 2021 Elmira College graduates recognized with multiple honors and prizes, including summa cum laude, magna cum laude, and cum laude honors, and induction into Phi Beta Kappa, the oldest national honors organization. Muha was recognized for achieving cum laude.

n Wilkes University interim Provost Terese Wignot announced the Dean’s List for the Spring 2021 semester. To be named to the Dean’s List, students must obtain a minimum 3.5 grade point average and carry at least 12 credits.

Jessica Morandi of Levittown

Katherine Oswald of Levittown

n Springfield College has named the following local students to the Dean’s List for academic excellence for the 2021 spring semester.

Elia DeBlasio from East Norwich, who has a primary major of business management.

Sarah Kinkel from Levittown, who has a primary major of physical education.

The criteria for selection to the Dean’s List are as follows: The student must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours of graded coursework for the term, exclusive of “P” grades. The student must not have any incompletes or missing grades in the designated term. The student must have a minimum semester grade average of 3.500 for the term.

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Several local students have been named to the Spring 2021 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.

Rachel Borzone of Syosset

Christos Moustopoulos of Syosset

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Rebecca Muha of Hicksville was

College Notes

among the graduates celebrated at the 163rd Elmira College Commencement on Sunday, June 6. The exercises included 169 undergraduate and 23 graduate students. Muha graduated with a Bachelor of Science.

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Timothy Maines of Levittown graduated from Union College recently.

Maines, a member of the Class of 2021 majoring in geology, graduated with a Bachelor of Science .

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New York Institute of Technology is proud to welcome the following local students, who will begin their studies in fall 2021:

Zahra Ezzi from Jericho, who plans to study in the biology, B.S. program.

Imama Reza from Jericho, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Sameer Khan from Jericho, who plans to study in the health sciences, B.S. program.

Herin Ahn from Jericho, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Yuhyeok Cha from Jericho, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Stephanie Coundouris from Syosset, who plans to study in the bioengineering, M.S. program.

Bianca Catanese from Syosset, who plans to study in the health & wellness, B.S. program.

Michelle Mahoney from Syosset, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Thomas Goldrick from Syosset, who plans to study in the physician assistant studies, M.S. program.

Joshua Collet from Woodbury, who plans to study in the physician assistant studies, M.S. program.

Austin D’Rozario from Hicksville, who plans to study in the biology, B.S. program.

Mikaela Giacco from Hicksville, who plans to study in the biology, B.S. program.

Darrien Sierra from Levittown, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Justin Murphy from Levittown, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Dewan Sadik from Levittown, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Harsh Talreja from Hicksville, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

David Giannuzzi Costa from Hicksville, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Simrat Purba from Hicksville, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Christopher Ackermann from Levittown, who plans to study in the

computer science, B.S. - network security concentration program.

Katelyn Biernacki from Plainview, who plans to study in the early childhood education, M.S. - Intitial Certification program.

Mohammad Cheema from Hicksville, who plans to study in the electrical & computer engineering technology, B.S. program.

Vasanth Shakelli from Hicksville, who plans to study in the electrical & computer engineering technology, B.S. program.

Michael Phillips from Levittown, who plans to study in the electrical & computer engineering, B.S. program.

Jaclyn Kiernan from Levittown, who plans to study in the health & wellness, B.S. program.

Jake Richman from Levittown, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / occupational therapy, M.S. program.

Leslie Toledo from Levittown, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / occupational therapy, M.S. program.

Miriam Farah from Levittown, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Adith Anugu from Hicksville, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Joana Thomson from Plainview, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Mahadiya Khalfan from Plainview (11803), who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program.

Gurpreet Multani from Plainview, who plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / physician assistant studies, M.S. program.

Jacob Bater from Plainview, who plans to study in the mechanical engineering, B.S. program.

Bianca Tamayo from Levittown, who plans to study in the mechanical engineering, B.S. - aerospace concentration program.

Jeffrey Carrera from Levittown, who plans to study in the nursing, B.S. program.

Melissa Soto from Hicksville, who plans to study in the physician assistant studies, M.S. program.

Rahet Bakshi from Hicksville, who plans to study in the psychology, B.S. program.

Katherin Cuellar from Hicksville, who plans to study in the psychology, B.S. / school counseling, M.S. program.

Aleena Ahmed from Bethpage, who plans to study in the biology, B.S. program.

Kaitlyn Andor from Bethpage, who plans to study in the computer science, B.S. program.

Joseph Pereira from Bethpage, who plans to study in the energy management, M.S. program.

Ayishah Khalid from Bethpage, who

plans to study in the life sciences, B.S. / osteopathic medicine, D.O. program. Mohammad Hassan from Bethpage, who plans to study in the mechanical engineering, B.S. program. n Students at Lehigh University attained Dean’s List in Spring 2021. This status is granted to students who earned a scholastic average of 3.6 or better while carrying at least 12 hours of regularly graded courses. The following students were so honored:

Ou Sha of Woodbury

Amanda Alejo of Woodbury

Ashley Haber of Syosset

Dalia Lieberman of Old Bethpage n Dickinson College has announced the following student graduated in May.

Sivan Komatsu, daughter of David and Michelle Komatsu of Jericho, N.Y., BA, women’s, gender & sexuality studies and psychology, summa cum laude, Dean’s List, Jericho High School n

Kristie Najdek of Bethpage was recognized for contributions to campus with Wilkes University’s Extracurricular Awards. Najdek received Female Senior Scholar Athlete of the Year. Najdek, an elementary and early childhood education major, earned the highest grade point average of female senior athletes. She was a member of the women’s volleyball team.

n Jessica Morandi of Levittown was recognized for service as a graduating e-Mentor at Wilkes University. Morandi is a digital design and media art major and earned the bachelor’s degree in May.

First-year student e-Mentors are upperclassman who provide experience and support to incoming students at Wilkes University.

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Lorina Michele Amore of Old Bethpage has been named to the Deans’ List at the University of NebraskaLincoln for the spring semester of the 2020-21 academic year.

Amore, a junior majoring in communication studies, was named to the Dean’s List for the College of Arts and Sciences.

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Two local students have been named to Susquehanna University’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2021 semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students who achieve a grade point average of 3.4 or higher out of a possible 4.0 for the semester. To qualify, students must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours. Students so called are: Zachary Vollono of Bethpage, a computer science major, who is a graduate of Long Island Lutheran Middle.

Victoria DiMartino of Levittown, a creative writing major, who is a graduate of Gen Douglas MacArthur.

Jackson School celebrates end of year on a tropical note

BY GEORGE HABER

Dozens of faculty and staff members at Jackson Elementary School in East Birchwood donned their tropical best for a gala celebration June 18 as the challenging school year came to an end. “It’s our way of saying thanks to all the adults and children who made the challenging year so successful,” said Jackson Principal Rivera. As a DJ played loud, joyous songs and faculty danced to the tunes, individual students in their parents’ cars rode around the parking lot, their names announced by the principal over a loudspeaker.

Greater LI Running Club raises funds for suicide prevention

The Greater Long Island Running Club was  thrilled to be able to present a check in the amount of $1000 to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention out of the proceeds of the inaugural Spring 5K at TOBAY Beach.

The check was presented to AFSP Long Island Director Ann Morrison by Spruing 5K Director Mindy Davidson and Running Club Executive Director Sue Fitzpatrick out of the proceeds of the 5K.

“Thanks to the support of Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town of Oyster Bay in making TOBAY Beach available to us on April 24th, we were really happy to be able to make such a strong donation to AFSP from this event,” said Race Director Mindy Davidson.  “A first time event with no business sponsors can’t be expected to make much money, but next year we hope to raise even more money for this important charitable beneficiary.”

Do you have grandchildren?

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The virtual show goes on at JFK Middle School

Students at John F. Kennedy Middle School, who are pictured being conducted by lead music teacher Michelle Cooper, recently recorded and released a virtual spring concert for the community.

courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

A bear-y wonderful week at Charles Campagne

Kindergarten classes at Charles Campagne Elementary School in the Bethpage School District partook in Teddy Bear Picnics throughout the week of June 14. Each student stuffed their own teddy bears, created bear-themed hats, played games and paraded down to the main office with their new fluffy friends.

Students at John F. Kennedy Middle School in the Bethpage School District recently worked in tandem with their music teachers and conductors to record a virtual spring concert for the school community. The seventh and eighth-grade chorus, orchestra and band rehearsed and filmed their segments separately, which were then compiled into one schoolwide virtual performance. The concert also included the Bethpage Association of Music BAM Awards, which are awarded to eighth-grade students for their dedication and commitment to music.

The John F. Kennedy music department would like to thank Principal Kevin Fullerton, Assistant Principal Erin Hayes, Mr. Christopher Attard and central administration for their commitment to continuing to nourish the music program during the 2020-21 school year.

The spring concert can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/ OsBE6uUzJ7o.

MacArthur musicians accepted into virtual master class

Sophomores Noah Grossbard (right) and Evelyn Sun from General Douglas MacArthur High School will perform in a virtual masterclass through the Long Island String Festival Association on April 17.

Two talented orchestra students from General Douglas MacArthur High School in the Levittown Public Schools were recently selected to perform in a virtual master class held by the Long Island String Festival Association on April 17. Sophomore violinists Noah Grossbard and Evelyn Sun will perform a solo publicly via Zoom in front of their peers from across Long Island and be taught and evaluated by a clinician.

The two students were selected based on video auditions that they submitted earlier this year and were accepted to participate among a handful of student performers.

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June 25 , 2021

Chamber plans return of annual Syosset Street Fair

From page 1

chicken meatballs, pizza and grilled veggies were served to 23 Chamber attendees along with a cash bar. I have been running Zoom networking for the past 14 months, and this was a long-awaited and welcome return to normalcy. Members were excited to finally be back with fellow members, and to go around to reintroduce themselves and their businesses. For some, this was the first time they met outside of Zoom,” Goldberg told the Syosset Advance last week.

Chamber President and 22-year Syosset resident Russell P. Green, president of financial services firm RPG Wealth Management, bought the first round of drinks for all the attendees.

“It is wonderful that the Chamber is able to have in-person events such as the networking event at Butera’s on the 14th. Over 20 members showed up to interact face to face. Laurie and the staff at Butera’s were the perfect hosts for an afternoon of engagement, and we thank Butera’s for the great food and settings for our first meeting coming back” he explained. Green discussed ways the business community has assisted local small business owners and local restaurants like Butera’s as the COVID-19 pandemic hit restaurants especially hard.

“The Chamber is continuing in its efforts to support local restaurants as they transition from the pandemic restrictions that have been in place for the past 15 months. Last year, the Chamber helped several local establishments by providing outdoor space heaters through the PSEG Outdoor Spaces grant program. A second round of that generous effort is ongoing, and the Chamber of Commerce is finalizing requests to submit to PSEG to further assist our great local restaurants,” Green told the Syosset Advance.

Butera’s of Woodbury and its two Nassau County sister locations -- in Sayville, and the newly-opened Butera’s in Bay Shore -- are owned by a local married couple Laurie and Martin Butera, Martin’s brother Gary and partner/chef Nick Zografos. The restaurant is famous for its fresh ingredients and innovative twists on classical Italian fare.

Laurie and Martin spoke with the Advance on Thursday June 17 after hosting the Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce event. Laurie said attending meetings, whether virtual or the recent in-person gathering of the Chamber’s Women in Business group which launched in 2020 was encouraging, as there are many new people to meet and greet. Since Butera’s opened 22 years ago, it has been a staple among Syosset Woodbury Chamber businesses, participating as members and sponsors of many Chamber events (the Chamber, as organized in its current iteration, was founded in 1998). Butera’s often contributed to the Fine Dining nights

sponsored by the Syosset Woodbury Chamber.

The Buteras are a very involved local entrepreneurial family, with two adult daughters who both graduated from Syosset High School. The older daughter lives in New York City while the younger one lives in Washington, D.C., and their parents make time for visiting each. The family also enjoys attending games and watching sports together, and they often plan trips to professional soccer matches.

Martin is on the board of directors for Huntington’s Cinema Arts Centre and the couple have been Centre members for over two decades. “We really enjoy that downtown, we are also members of the Huntington Historical Society and we want to support the local organizations and see their missions continue,” Martin said.

Laurie and Martin thanked the Chamber for attending the Networking event. They recognize the need for momentum and collaborations that are mutually beneficial within the community.

Laurie Butera said “the event was very helpful and the people were great, certainly to be back in-person was amazing.” Her husband, Martin, noted that overall Woodbury’s location has continued to serve the needs of the community with many takeout orders places and many local deliveries. He noted that the opening of a third Butera’s location last year has presented opportunities and challenges on its own, aside from pandemic-related concerns.

“Last year we went through quite a bit and we were not really certain of where the end could be. Now we have a little more information and view of the ending of COVID shutdowns. However it is not over. The hit all the businesses took is lasting and we’ll need time to recover. Recovery can come into the sales and regenerating rather than starting over, or starting up. It is like Butera’s and other businesses are plants, and a lot of limbs got trimmed off, and now we are trying to regenerate and grow back -- you need support for that to happen. One good thing that came out of this pandemic, the outdoor dining, was critical and will remain so for restaurants’ survival and in our abilities to recoup and come back,” Martin said last Thursday.

Seeking permanent outdoor dining

Laurie and Martin are advocating and petitioning for outdoor dining -among all restaurants in the Town of Oyster Bay that choose to offer it -- to become a permanent seasonal operation going forward. Laurie says customers have requested the outdoor seating be continued for their enjoyment throughout different times of the year. As the 23 Chamber members dined outside under the tent at Butera’s, it was apparent that the structure and operations were

organized in a safe and orderly fashion in Woodbury Village.

“If the Town can make a temporary seasonal permit for outdoor dining or any other regulations, whatever we have to do and comply with to make it part of life, that is what we should be going for. Customers love it. This would not only assist the businesses but it is a step towards improving the quality of life for people in the Town of Oyster Bay. Undoubtedly a straw poll would reveal overwhelming support for seasonal outdoor dining permitting. We are proposing a safe permitting method of going through the government to get this done,” Martin Butera explained.

He understands the nature of inspections under the Building Department, and the tent Butera’s has is permitted by the Nassau County Fire Marshals.

“The Town of Oyster Bay issued the allowance and permission for the businesses to do this, but now we need to have it with safety and permitting on a seasonal basis. There are different ways businesses can organize outdoor dining but there has to be consistent elements to ensure public safety to continue,” Martin said.

Laurie noted that charitable efforts are always a part of Butera’s vision. Many donations of the famous Butera’s chicken meatballs to the INN, Long Island Food Bank, have provided a premium product in protein to the diets of those in need.

“We believe in giving back to communities that we do business in, and we do so to be part of it. I like to refer to it as ‘capitalism with a conscience’ as it’s not always about the bottom line. We do things with balance and we do the right thing to do because it will come back to you -- we always believe in helping others,” Martin said.

Last year Butera’s made efforts to support the “frontline healthcare heroes” at Northwell Health’s Syosset and Plainview Hospitals, with meals donated and provided to essential workers every Monday through Thursday.

Syosset Woodbury Chamber of Commerce Secretary Christine Patti, community relations manager for Syosset and Plainview Hospitals, told the Syosset Advance that Butera’s was one of 32 local restaurants who partnered with Goldman Sachs to provide meal donations to Plainview and Syosset Hospital during the pandemic.

2020 Chamber President Honored

With the first opportunity to meet in-person in the last 16 months, the Chamber presented an award and token of their great appreciation for 2020 Chamber President Maureen Nickel, a Woodbury resident and the owner of BrightStar Home Health Care. Nickel grew up in Williston Park, has worked in healthcare management on Long Island for over 35 years, raised four sons in Syosset-Woodbury with

her husband Don and led her business as an entrepreneur and involved community members. She’s served the community in several volunteer roles over the decades, including with St. Edward the Confessor Roman Catholic Church. Maureen previously served as a volunteer member of the Saint Edward’s School Board, as well as the school’s Parents’ Association and on St. Edward’s Festival Committee.

Last fall Chamber President Nickel stopped by chamber member restaurants Butera’s of Woodbury, Lisbon Cafe, Hurricane Grill and Wings and Mara’s Southern Kitchen with a special donation of outdoor heaters and propane to fuel them, so the restaurants could provide comfort to those eating outdoors while pandemic restrictions severely limited the indoor capacities.

Maureen Nickel was instrumental in the Chamber of Commerce receiving a PSEG Grant award for the donation of outdoor heaters, supplied by Home Depot. Laurie Butera explained last week that this has been an invaluable contribution because even summer evenings can get chilly, and her customers enjoy the warmth the heaters provide.

“A lot of our restaurants including ourselves were in need of help in getting the outdoor heaters and anything offered to us. We were contacted by Maureen and she was very, very nice in explaining how the Chamber could help. She introduced us to Home Depot who was partnering up with the Chamber to supply heaters. And this is how I started to re-engage and get more involved with our Chamber with Maureen’s leadership, and with the Women’s Group and its co-chair Carolyn Palladino. Thanks to Maureen we have become more involved now with nice people to meet in our community, and so many business contacts and connections,” Laurie said.

Street Fair to return

The Chamber is focused on hosting the 2021 Street Fair, after a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic and restrictions on the outdoor crowd sizes in 2020. The day-long Street Fair community event and celebration will take place on Sunday, September 19, 2021 and the Chamber is actively taking requests for the various sponsorship levels, and presence of tables and booths. For details and updates visit SyossetChamber.com

There is much optimism in Syosset and Woodbury for all organizational efforts and state or Department of Health mandates to be lifted in order to accommodate a large crowd, again in the thousands, as the Street Fair has witnessed in 2018 and 2019.

Also planned is a Joint Chamber Golf Outing for Thursday, October 7, 2021 in conjunction with the Westbury Chamber of Commerce.

Recent Real Estate Sales in Syosset and Jericho

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June 25, 2021

As Travel Resurges, TripAdvisor Launches Reco to Match Travelers with Trip Designers

BY KAREN RUBIN

The news that the European Union is opening to American travelers has people pulling out and revising their bucket lists and not wasting time to get out there.

Travel is back. The desire to come together – family and friends - and have the special shared life-enhancing experiences, bonds, lifetime memories that traveling provides are propelling an explosion of travelers who are finding, for the first time in more than a year, “no vacancy” and “flights full” signs.

“After a year spent at home, consumers are more eager than ever to travel: 75 percent plan to go on at least one vacation this summer and they plan to spend more money on travel than any other category,” a survey by payment network Affirm found. Affirm polled 2,000 Americans on their spending plans and found that half are going all-out this summer once vaccinated, to make up for lost time.

Meanwhile, travel advisors (a more apt term than “travel agents”) are making a comeback. Bucking the DIY trend that was part and parcel of the boom in online travel sites, the dizzying changes in travel, increased concern for health, safety and security, and scarce availability in face of increased demand and limited supply, combined with a new appreciation for how precious the travel experience and more ambitious travel plans, more travelers, from millennials to retirees are seek-

A HelloReco trip designer can curate a trip through Portugal’s Douro to see the terraced vineyards and have a private wine tasting and even participate in crushing the grapes © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

ing out professionals.

Travelers correctly assess that travel advisors, with deep knowledge and connections, have greater ability to get free upgrades (or even actual rooms) at hotels and resorts or know suitable or better alternatives; get complimentary breakfast; access special pricing; steer travelers to experiences and attractions they might not know; and get them into unusual and extraordinary experiences. Significantly for these times, is their knowledge of what’s open and what’s safe, putting the logistics together in the best itinerary, and addressing any emergency or change in condition that may occur once the trip is underway.

All of this is driving travelers

to rediscover the benefits of using skilled travel professional who knows the destination or type of travel (adventure, ecotour, family), how to get the most value for dollar, and has the inside track for putting together all the elements in the most cost-effective way.

The most ambitious example is a new matching service that ironically comes out of TripAdvisor – the online compendium of everything travel and the parent of a score of online travel sites. Reco from TravelAdvisor (HelloReco.com) does for travelers what Uber does for drivers, offering an online platform that links travelers to a specialist “trip designer” to customize your itinerary.

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

Reco offers links to experts in a destination or a type of travel, who essentially offer their skills and you get to choose. You pay a single fee of $200 for their help preparing the itinerary, regardless of how simple, how long, how complex or expensive.

“Reco from Tripadvisor is seeing increased demand for ‘big, trip-of-alifetime’ vacations as Americans look forward to traveling again,” said Erik Ornitz, General Manager of Reco, which debuted in December 2020.

“Trip Designers on Reco are helping make long-awaited vacations possible with personalized planning and expert advice on navigating today’s complex world. The excitement of newlyweds actually being able to plan their honeymoon, or families getting ready for a trip together after months apart, is a light at the end of this long tunnel.”

A sampling of recent trips planned for Reco travelers showcases the diversity of destinations and experiences in both international and domestic locales:

• A destination wedding back home to Zambia by  Reco Trip Designer Dean H

• An LGBTQ+ friendly U.S. road trip to discover hidden gems by  Reco Trip Designer Shelly R

• A life-long wish fulfilled through a solo heritage trip to Ireland by  Reco Trip Designer Emily H

• A sun soaked, cultural family trip to Jamaica by  Reco Trip Designer Tammy O

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

As Travel Resurges, TripAdvisor Launches Reco to Match Travelers with Trip Designers

Continued from previous page

• An adventure-packed work retreat to Hawaii by  Reco Trip Designer

Tracy K

• A sabbatical in Costa Rica to revel in nature by  Reco Trip Designer Irene E

• A safari through Kenya and Rwanda by  Reco Trip Designer Chris L

• A scenic train trip through Europe by  Reco Trip Designer Jenna B

• A multi-generational family trip to Mexico by  Reco Trip Designers Sietra & Jeremy J

• A multi-week honeymoon to the Galapagos Islands by  Reco Trip Designer Daniela H

How Reco Works Travelers start by simply sharing details and preferences about their next trip on HelloReco.com – such as destinations, the type and purpose of the trip, their interests, who they are traveling with, and budget parameters, in an online questionnaire. The Reco platform immediately matches users with a selection of curated Trip Designers that meet their specific needs.

After an initial conversation via messaging within the platform, the traveler

chooses one of the trip designers and pays a $200 hiring fee for the selected Trip Designer to begin designing, planning, and booking a custom itinerary for a stress-free and highly memorable travel experience. Throughout the process (pre-, during-, and post-trip), Reco connects travelers with their personal Trip Designer and saves all important travel documents and confirmations.

The Trip Designer remains available to Reco users throughout their trip and can also navigate and help manage any changes or cancellations.

“Every trip designer has either lived in destination they specialize in or traveled there many times,” Ornitz said. ”They are incredibly knowledgeable about destinations they are creating itineraries for – most have contacts at the beautiful hotels, know the concierge, can get room upgrades, complimentary breakfast. For example, trip designer Danny specializes in culinary and wine experiences through Portugal and Spain; an American, he has lived there for over 10 years and has gotten to know so many of the wine makers (that most don’t know about) that he can get clients in to meet the winemaker for private tastings.”

The travel advisors – who may be part of prestigious agencies like Virtuoso or Signature Travel Network – are vetted in order to be part of the Reco platform. They may also be earning commission on the travel services they book, which is why they can afford to do the work on

a $200 flat fee.

He expects clients to span a demographic spectrum – millennials to retirees – and everything from safaris and food-and-wine trips to destination weddings.

One of the specialty areas that caught my attention was the ability to help design trips for families who have autistic and special needs children.

“As a company, we care about inclusive travel, helping travelers with all sorts of needs travel better. As a team, we are thinking about different ways we could embody that mission to be an inclusive travel company, and several trip designers said it is difficult for family with autistic children to travel – especially with all these [COVID-19] restrictions.” There are five trip designers whose specialty is working with families who can curate such trips.

“It shows we can accommodate special needs, complex travel. It is an initial effort by us to serve those families, helping those families travel again in a world where it is harder to travel.

“It goes to the root of Reco – we are all about custom travel, matching people with right designer who can meet their needs, whatever they are.”

Reco, a wholly owned subsidiary brand of TripAdvisor, Inc., is currently available for U.S. residents and is also available as an iOS app. An Android app will be available in coming months. Visit www.helloreco.com to start the process.

A GREENER VIEW

Lawn Grubs

BY JEFF RUGG

Q: I was wondering about grubs because my neighbor said his yard had lots of grubs last fall. When should we start to treat them?

A: How bad were the grubs in his lawn last year? Most people are caught up in the craze of killing every grub, when, in fact, most grubs do very little harm. Almost every yard has grubs yearround. In our lawns, there are more than a half dozen species of beetles that have a grub stage in their life cycle, plus there are cicada larvae and other insects, too. They are found in lawns and flower beds. Most do very little harm, and until there are enough of them in one location, there is no need to use chemical controls. University research shared with Master Gardeners at Oregon State University says that 10 grub larvae per square foot of lawn is necessary before treatments are economical. Applying poisons to your

yard when none are needed doesn’t make much sense.

In the spring, the grubs that were in the soil last fall will move closer to the soil surface from their overwintering location that was down a foot or two in the soil. They feed a little on grass roots, but rarely enough to cause enough damage to the grass. After a few weeks of feeding when the weather warms the soil, they will pupate and, depending on what kind of insect they are, become adults in the spring or summer. Lawn chemicals don’t work well on the pupa or adults. Adults fly around for miles, so killing spring grubs in your yard will not affect how many beetles will fly in from elsewhere to lay eggs for the fall portion of the life cycle.

There are chemicals sold in the spring that say they give season-long grub control. For most people’s lawns, that just means there is a season of unnecessary chemicals on their lawn.

The adult female beetles prefer to lay

their eggs on lawns that are irrigated and not under trees. If you let your lawn dry out and go dormant, or if it is covered by the shade of trees, there are usually not enough grubs to need chemical treatments. Female beetles want to give their babies lush green grass roots to eat, so besides saving water, dormant lawns have fewer grubs and less need for chemical treatments.

There is no relationship between the number of grubs in a lawn from one year to the next. A lot of grubs one year has no bearing on if the lawn should be chemically treated the next year. If a lot of adult beetles are noticed in July, then a treatment in August might be warranted, but it is better to wait until August to check for grubs before deciding to treat the lawn with poisons.

During wet summers, the eggs are laid so far apart in the grass that the grubs don’t do harm. During cool summers or very hot summers, grubs die from diseas-

Tripadvisor is one of the largest travel guidance platforms in the world. With more than 884 million reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at restaurants and discover great places nearby.

In addition to www.helloreco. com , Tripadvisor’s online travel brands and businesses include:  www. bokun.io ,  www.cruisecritic. com,  www.flipkey.com,  www.thefork. com  (including  www.lafourchette. com ,  www.eltenedor.com ,  www. bookatable.co.uk , and  www. delinski.com ), www.holidaylettings.co.uk ,  www.housetrip.com , www.jetsetter.com ,  www.niumba. com,  www.seatguru.com,  www.singleplatform.com,  www.vacationhomerentals.com, and  www.viator.com

___________________________________

© 2021 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com,  www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures

es and drying out, so treatment is normally not required.

Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com..

COPYRIGHT 2021 JEFF RUGG DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS SYNDICATE

Crossword Answers

BY THOMAS BRENNAN

My mother would always sing. She sang as she moved in the kitchen; light Irish lilts, the overall sound more like humming, but still the pleasant trill was easily identified as being Irish in tone. For my mother, the very thought that I should attend public school would never have entered her mind. I knew of no one who had a background similar to mine, first generation Irish-Catholic, who attended public school. I could not imagine my mother admitting to her sisters, whom we all liked and often visited, that I attended public school. No, that would never do. But after few months at PS 9, when a seat finally did open at St. Teresa’s, I would reluctantly join the over ninety other boys in the same densely-packed 1A classroom.

It was not just the factor of formal religious instruction being taught that my parents and others like them would endorse, but also the underlying value of Christian ethics being imparted by teachers devoting their lives to that effort that my parents and others like them found important to maintain. Actually, with the exception of a first period religion class and a later communion and confirmation instruction classes, there was little to no religious formal instruction imparted in the curriculum whatsoever.

In the end, I’m sure my parents felt they would be betraying a belief that was almost instinctive, one that they felt if adhered to and passed on to their children, would prove to have far more value in the long run than any benefit that might be provided by a public school education.

Strict discipline was considered to be a necessity in such crowded schoolrooms populated by the children of mostly Irish and Italian immigrants. The day-to-day application of physical punishment was considered an asset, an improvement over what many immigrant parents assumed to be the more indifferent attitude of public school teachers. The concept of discipline was taken as a sign by the believers in the system, as proof of the Brothers and the Nuns concern for the students under their care. At the very minimum, such measures were tolerated. Punishment, and the often harsh physical methods that sometimes accompanied it, was meant to be endured as essential for proper learning, so the premise held. Our parents had a similar disciplinary focus in Ireland for the few years they were permitted to attended school, and now apparently, we children would have it here. As far as they were concerned the system worked.

Life itself would have plenty of difficulties ahead the theory implies, and the rigor of classroom discipline as

A Nun’s Weapons – Part I

applied by the Brothers and Sisters was considered a good foundation for coping with that reality. The consideration of having too many children in one classroom did not factor in as a bottom line item. My parent’s only concern was, “Is there enough room?” This thinking was as instinctive to the Irish Catholic community as the application of a one-two punch was to a young Jack Dempsey.

I actually liked PS 9, but even there, the classrooms were crowded. The overall atmosphere was light and easy. I was given a smock so I wouldn’t spill the water based dabbed paint when it became my turn to draw on an easel framed paper drawing board that stood on the side of the room. Such a role could never have been a consideration in parochial school.

From the first moment I arrived at St. Teresa’s school, I recall having a distinct feeling of apprehension even fear that I could feel as I climbed up the back stairs leading from the schoolyard to my classroom. From the first moment that I got on line with the glum-faced boys in my new class as we lined up single file around the back of the room, I recognized that my previous experience at PS 9 meant nothing here amidst this horde of boys who were silent and obedient while waiting to be assigned their seats according to alphabetical order.

The Sisters of Saint Joseph taught the first classes in the boys’ school at St. Teresa’s, and Sister Marie Labore, who was my first grade teacher, impressed me with her attractive look, her soft tone, and her mild disposition. From the very beginning, Sister Labore bypassed any thought of resorting to harsh words or lengthy punishment assignments. The application of rigorous classroom discipline was obviously not her style, nor would such tactics befit her pleasant disposition. When confronted by inevitable disorder that a classroom of over ninety boys will eventually bring in its wake, Sister first called on an old chestnut in a nun’s arsenal, the combined use of a sweet smile, and the subtle introduction of our vigilant Guardian Angel. For any of the boys who may not have heard of a Guardian Angel, Sister paved the way to acceptance by passing out pictures of such scenes as a frightened looking young boy and girl walking hand in hand with obvious trepidation over a dilapidated bridge surrounded by a dark craggy vista.

Menacing skies laced with vivid streaks of lightning hovered directly above, and a deep yawning abyss gaped far below them. What these two frightened but nevertheless intrepid hikers were doing in this scenario was beside the point. The picture implied that life is loaded with such perils. Unseen by these two fearful children who were depicted

to somehow look like they came from the Victorian Era, was a hovering spiritual presence looming directly above them. Sister explained that this was their dependable Guardian Angel. Each of our Guardian Angels was an invisible presence, a real-deal angel with oversized wings, outstretched hands, and a knowing smile of pure incarnate wisdom. There is a kindly understanding in the angel’s expression: a shake of the head kind of “what will these kids do next” temperate look. I could almost hear the soft sound of a full-fledged tsk.

Yet the bottom line in this detailed scenario is an appreciation of the angel’s understated lifeguard kind of disposition, one that recognizes the frightened children’s plight. Each of us is assigned such a vigilant invisible guide Sister assured the class with a knowing nod of her head.

“Your Guardian Angel is always watching,” Sister would inform us, our take-away message as she scanned over our now compliant faces while she paced softly across the front of the room, taking everyone in her wake. There is something beguiling in her swirling movement that enchants us all. There is no such thing as a whispered secret or an idle thought in class as you are never really alone, sister added.

Bad behavior would disappoint your attentive protector, became the bottom line.

More often, she would cease what she was doing and say, “Let us stop now class, and make room in our seats for our guardian angel.”

Sister would then look at us, smiling with her attractive wide-eyed look of approval, pleased and gratified at our

immediate compliance. With her finger pressed over her sealed lips, Sister Marie Labore strode slowly along the front of the class, watching in her kindly manner as we silently inched over, pleased to make room for our new spiritual companion. A quiet lull was now introduced into what was previously an atmosphere that Sister had somehow recognized as one having potentially ominous overtones.

None of us doubted the presence of our unseen spiritual guide. Our assumption of the reality of this new protector, coupled with Sister Marie Labore’s own pleasant demeanor, caused each of us to become more anxious to please, a combination that gave Sister Marie Labore the upper hand.

I have a sense that nuns are born with a built-in behavior barometer beyond the capacity of mere mortals to attain. They sense a little low-pressure anti-good-behavior system seeping into the classroom when the rest of us feel that we are meekly sitting in our shared desks in a mild posture of poised attention.

But as the term moved on, Sister’s weather vane of childhood classroom behavior patterns once again became activated. Her innate inner tracking system alerts her that behavior was about to go awry. Sister Labore’s keen senses have notified her of a new storm front coming in; the onslaught of contagious misbehavior that apparently had a potential even beyond the ability of our invisible Guardian Angel or of Sister’s own pleasant manner to contain.

(To Be Continued)

When the Wife is the Primary Breadwinner

BY TOM MARGENAU

Every Social Security rule I can think of is gender-neutral. In other words, the same laws apply to men and women equally. But society hasn’t always been gender neutral. We all have heard the statistics: Men tend to make more money than women. And because Social Security benefits are based on lifetime income, men end up getting higher Social Security benefits than women do.

Also, biology isn’t gender-neutral. Women have babies. Men don’t. So women take more time off work to have and, frequently, raise children. That’s just another reason women end up with a lower lifetime income and, therefore, less Social Security benefits than men.

What those factors (among others) mean is that when I talk about benefits available to spouses, I am almost always talking about benefits available to women. Because a wife usually ends up with a lower Social Security benefit than her husband, she is much more likely to be eligible for spousal benefits on his record -- especially after he dies.

But today’s questions come from couples who have bucked that trend. They come from households where the wife made more money than her husband. So they want to know how Social Security will work in their cases.

Q: I am about to turn 62. I have been a stay-at-home husband and father and, now, grandfather most of my adult life. My wife, who is also 62, is a doctor, and she always had sufficient income to care for all our needs. But now that we are both pushing retirement age, we want to know more about Social Security. Specifically, I want to know if I am due any spousal benefits on my wife’s record.

A: Yes, you will be due husband’s benefits on your wife’s Social Security record. But you’ve got to wait until she retires. In other words, you can’t get any dependent benefits on her record until she is getting Social Security herself. If she is still working when she reaches her full retirement age, it might be wise for her to file for her Social Security then because they will be able to pay you your husband’s benefit share on top of her own benefits. And, by the way, that share is 50% if you are over your full retirement age when she files.

One other thought: If you’ve worked at least 10 years, you would be due a small benefit on your own account. You could file for that now and switch to the higher husband’s benefits on her record when she files.

Q: I am 72 and single. My ex-wife just turned 62. We were married for 28 years. She usually made more money than I did. Can I get any extra Social Security benefits on her record?

A: Just as a divorced wife might be due benefits on her ex-husband’s record, you might be due benefits on your ex-wife’s record. But you would only be due extra benefits if your spousal rate is greater than what you are getting on your own account. Your spousal rate should be about half of your ex-wife’s full retirement rate. My hunch is your own benefit exceeds half of hers, so I’m guessing you aren’t due any husband’s benefits. However, if your own rate is less than half of hers, then call the Social Security Administration at 800-7721213 to file.

For long-range planning purposes, you should know that if you happen to outlive your ex, you would be due divorced widower’s benefits after she dies. You would get your benefit supplemented up to whatever she was getting at the time of death.

Q: I am 62 and a widower. I am about to retire. Although our incomes were similar, my wife generally made just a little more than me. What are my Social Security options?

A: You can employ what I usually call the “widow’s option.” In your case, we would just call it the “widower’s option.” What that means is that you can file for reduced widower’s benefits once you retire. At 62, you’d get about 82% of her full benefit. Then at your full retirement age, you could switch to 100% of your own benefit. Or you could wait until 70 and switch to 132% of your own benefit.

Q: I am about to reach my full retirement age and plan to file for my Social Security. I’ve got an ex-husband who was a conniving cheat and chiseler. When we divorced after a 22 year marriage, I made sure the divorce decree specified that he couldn’t get a nickel of my Social Security. So now that I am about to sign up for Social Security, do I just give them a copy of my divorce papers? Or is there some form I have to sign to keep him from getting any of my benefits?

A: Well, it has finally happened. Over my past almost half century of working on Social Security issues, I have heard from maybe 10,000 men who added a “I don’t want my wife to get any of my Social Security” clause into a divorce decree. You are the first woman I’ve ever come across who did the same. Congratulations!

But here’s the bad news: That clause isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on! Anything you have your lawyer scribble into your divorce papers cannot override federal law. In other words, if the law says your ex is due benefits on your account, you or your lawyer can’t stop him from getting those benefits.

Now here might be some good news. If your ex is due anything on your ac-

count, he would be due between onethird and one-half of your benefit (depending on factors I don’t know about your case). And I’m guessing his own Social Security benefit is more than that. So he will just get his own benefit.

And what you’ve got to do is pray he drops dead before you do. As explained elsewhere in this column, if you die first, there is a pretty good chance he

would be due divorced widower’s benefits on your record. And I bet that would just make you turn over in your grave! If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has a book with all the answers. It’s called “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” You can find the book at creators.com/books. Or look for it on Amazon or other book outlets..

COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

What makes more sense, renovating or knockdown?

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

Ihope all the dads (this past weekend) and moms (the other weekend) had an enjoyable, fun and relaxing time with their family and friends.

Whether you renovate or a knockdown and building new, will all depend on your personal needs and wants, budget you have established and the time constraints built into a plan as well as how long you’ll plan to be living in that home.

Renovating probably will be a much less costly path to pursue but that will also depend on what you are trying to accomplish as costs can and will increase if you do not create a budget and a plan to guide and follow. The percentage of homeowners renovating went from 19% during the first quarter of 2021 to 36% in the second quarter.

Are you looking to add more living space, upgrading your kitchen and bathrooms, family room, customer patio/barbecue area w/pool, landscaping, etc.? What permits will you have to apply and attain and what will your timeline look like? Everything can be simplified by following a tried and true step by step plan and process that you can work hand in hand with your architect and contractor or builder if you are starting from scratch.

Customizing your home whether renovating or building new can be done right from the initial stages. I have experienced that there are always changes that can and will come about as you go along building your “dream home”. Humans are creatures that don’t always follow a specific strict course of action and there are those that are always changing their minds and augmenting decisions for various reasons. Husbands, wives and sig-

nificant others may and may not see eye to eye (we know what that is like, right?) in the beginning but vacillate as the project progresses and their vision unfolds. Visualizing and painting a picture of your specific, needs and wants can establish a basis to start from and potentially minimize issues later on. When you do the required and necessary research, educating and learning it will assist you in saving money as well as your valuable time. With a full kitchen renovation, homeowners can recoup about 59% of the cost, and a new master suite will typically return 50%, according to a study from the National Association of Realtors (1,400,000 members) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (463,537 members). But the highest returns come from less flashy projects as follows:

ters. Then there are those current baby boomers and others that feel that upgrading and redesigning their homes by retrofitting and adding handicap accessible and special needs items will be the most prudent way for their future. This will provide them that much more comfort and enjoyment in their later years and their value will increase over time with their improvements.

There are those that are extremely fortunate in the 1-5% club that have earned huge sums of money during the Pandemic and have multiple choices as to either to renovate or buy, knockdown and build new.

BY CHARLYN FARGO

While I don’t believe in superfoods, I do think there are foods we should c\\hoose more often to include in our diet, including berries, avocadoes, leafy greens, pomegranates, salmon and whole grains such as quinoa.

A recent study, albeit small, highlights the power of adding strawberries to our plate. New research in the journal Nutrients found that eating 2 1/2 cups of fresh strawberries daily for a month lowered participants LDL (bad) cholesterol, blood glucose and insulin resistance.

The study was conducted at the Uni-

1.) Minor Bathroom Remodel: Returns an average of 102%

2.) Landscaping: Returns an average of 100%

3.) Minor Kitchen Remodel: Returns an average of 98.5%

4.) Attic Bedroom Conversion: Returns an average of 93.5%

5.) Major Bathroom Remodel: Returns an average of 93.2%

Prices on existing homes continue to increase as well as the bidding wars with multiple offers. There are and will be more people who currently own who will consider staying in place and renovating, and/or expanding their existing homes instead of moving to larger quar-

Then again, however, there are more people that have already left large cities like NY over the last year due to the Covid-19 Pandemic (and are not coming back) than ever before to have more open space, an office to do zoom and telecommuting with their work at home, privacy and less physical human interaction as well as lower taxes and costs. Situations can always and do occur to enable, change or even disable your plans. Projecting your future is never an easy task, but it’s all in the planning.

Now that the Pandemic is winding down as we reach the 60-70% vaccination rate in many locations, and Gov Cuomo has eliminated the protocols for social distancing, things can get back to a more normal environment so we can all begin to travel once again and enjoy our lives.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave

The Power of a Strawberry

versity of Nevada, Las Vegas and University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. The 14-week randomized, controlled crossover study assigned 33 adults with metabolic syndrome features (abdominal obesity and elevated blood cholesterol) to one of three phases. The phases included a control powder beverage, a low dose of 13 grams freeze-dried strawberry powder (equal to one serving of fresh strawberries) and a high dose of 32 grams freeze-dried strawberry powder (equal to 2 1/2 servings of fresh strawberries). Participants were instructed to follow their usual diet and lifestyle while refraining from eating other berries throughout the study.

Data was collected at the beginning and end of each four-week phase.

Researchers found the highest dose of strawberries had the biggest effect on fasting insulin, insulin resistance and lipid particle profiles in adults with obesity.

The authors credit the fiber, phytosterols and polyphenols found in strawberries for the favorable outcomes.

The bottom line is, for those want to reduce their risk of diabetes and cardiovascular difficulties, strawberries may be a food to include more often.

Charlyn Fargo is a registereddietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illinois. For comments or questions, contact

Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 39 years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.). He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to http://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s tumultuous Covid-19 pandemic market without any obligation or “strings” attached. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

You can email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your request or ideas, suggestions or interview you for a specific topic and a Q & A for a future column with your name, email and cell number. He will email or call you back and respond to your request ASAP as long as he has your complete name, cell, email and/or full home or business address. Again, for a “FREE” 15 minute consultation, he can also be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.

her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRd. . COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

Will Collecting a Public Pension Reduce Your Social Security?

BY CARRIE SCHWAB-POMERANTZ

Dear Carrie, I’m retiring soon with a pension that’s outside of the Social Security system. I’ve also earned enough credits from earlier employment to qualify for Social Security benefits. I know my benefits will be reduced because of Windfall Elimination/Pension Offset reductions. Are there any strategies to minimize these reductions? Is there any reason to delay filing for Social Security? If it matters, my wife is also eligible for benefits under her own work record. -- A Reader

Dear Reader, This is a tough question to answer, primarily because the Windfall Elimination Provision/Government Pension Offset rules present one of the more technical areas of Social Security planning. The formulas determining reductions are complex, and a lot depends on your individual situation.

So my first recommendation is to consult with a financial advisor or accountant who specializes in Social Security benefits. While it is not possible to avoid the WEP/GPO reductions, there are things for you to consider regarding the best time to apply for benefits, so it is important to understand your options. Before we get into those specifics, however, let’s first review the basics of both the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset.

This provision affects people like you who have earned a pension in the public sector that didn’t require paying Social Security taxes and also worked in the private sector long enough to qualify for Social Security benefits. State and local governments may opt out of the Social Security retirement system by providing their own retirement plans. On the surface, it sounds like the best of both worlds. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work

exactly that way because when you collect a public pension from employment when you weren’t paying into Social Security, your Social Security benefits may be reduced.

The amount of the WEP reduction depends on a number of factors, including how long you worked in the private sector vs. the public sector, the amount of your pension and Social Security benefit, and how much you earned. If, for instance, you paid Social Security taxes for more than 20 years and had what the Social Security Administration determines to be “substantial earnings,” your benefit reduction would likely be less than someone who paid taxes for fewer years and earned less. However, if you paid Social Security taxes for more than 30 years, there’s no reduction at all.

The GPO applies to those who collect a public pension and also are eligible for Social Security spousal or survivor benefits. Normal spousal benefits are 50 percent of a spouse’s benefit taken at Full Retirement Age. Normal survivor

benefits are 100 percent of the decedent’s Social Security benefit. Essentially, GPO reduces these benefits by two-thirds of your non-covered government pension.

How these provisions apply to you and how they may affect your timing for collecting Social Security benefits is where it gets highly individualized and goes way beyond the scope of this column. Just to give you an idea, here are some things an advisor would want to discuss with you:

--The age difference between you and your wife

--The amount of the WEP/GPO reduction

--Life expectancy for both you and your wife

--The amount of your individual Social Security benefits relative to one another

--The type of pension you have and the survivor benefit it offers

Part of your discussion will involve te pros and cons of taking your benefits now or waiting until later. For instance,

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

on the one hand, your Social Security benefit will increase by 6 to 8 percent each year you delay collecting between your full retirement age and age 70 -even if it is reduced because of the WEP. This could mean a healthy increase in your own benefit as well as in survivor benefits. On the other hand, if your adjusted benefit is considerably smaller than that of your spouse, you might be just as well off collecting earlier.

As with so much that has to do with Social Security timing, there’s no easy, one-size-fits- all answer. And that’s especially true when it comes to WEP/GPO. My recommendation is to use this information as a starting point, and then sit down with an advisor who can put it all together for your specific financial circumstances.

Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, Certified Financial Planner, is president of the Charles Schwab Foundation and author of “The Charles Schwab Guide to Finances After Fifty,” available in bookstores nationwide. Read more at http://schwab. com/book. You can email Carrie at askcarrie@schwab.com. This column is no substitute for individualized tax, legal or investment advice. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, consult with a qualified tax adviser, CPA, financial planner or investment manager. To find out more about Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www. creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2021 CHARLES SCHWAB & CO. INC., MEMBER SIPC DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS. COM

Quick and Easy Outdoor Cleaning and Storage Tips

BY MARY HUNT

Many outdoor cleaning and storage solutions can be rather expensive, especially when compared with Everyday Cheapskate do-it-yourself or homemade alternatives. Here are some of my favorite cleaning tips and storage solutions for the garage and patio that will give you the results you need without the costs you don’t.

BARBECUE COVER

Protect your grill without sacrificing your wallet. Fold an old vinyl tablecloth in half and sew up the sides to make a cover for your outdoor barbecue grill.

CHARCOAL RECYCLE

After the food has cooked on the barbecue, don’t leave coals to just burn out. With a shovel, scoop them up into an empty can and smother them by placing a nonflammable lid over the can. They can be used again.

STORAGE BUCKETS

Are you sick of all the half-full bags of fertilizer, potting soil, cat litter and pet food in the garage that get wet and turn into soggy messes? Go to your local grocery store and ask the bakery for their empty frosting buckets with lids. Typically, they’re happy to give them away. Just clean, remove the labels and make new laminated labels or print clearly on the bucket. This will save you

from having to throw out half-full bags of ruined fertilizer or pet food.

CONCRETE SPOT-REMOVER

To clean spots on concrete, sprayed bleach (preferably Clorox) works great. Let it sit for about five minutes; then rinse. Remember to exercise extreme caution when handling liquid chlorine bleach. Do not mix it with anything but water to avoid mixing up a batch of deadly chlorine gas.

MORE CONCRETE STAINS

Commercial cleansers such as Ajax and Comet work well to clean concrete that has been stained by mold or leaves. Sprinkle cleanser on the cement, add water and scrub with a stiff broom. Al-

low it to sit for a few hours; then rinse. EASY GRILL CLEANING

Instead of scrubbing your grill clean and making a huge mess, put the grill racks in your self-cleaning oven the next time you run the cycle. The chrome will discolor a bit, but you won’t spend all that time scrubbing.

EGG CARTON FIRE STARTER

Here’s an inexpensive fire starter for the barbecue or campfire: Fill an empty paper egg carton with a dozen charcoal briquettes, one in each compartment. Squirt each briquette with lighter fluid, close the fluid container and then close the egg carton lid. Carefully light the container.

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

APPLE STORAGE

If you have more apples than you can reasonably use in a the short term, they’ll last up to six months if you store them in a dry spot between 32 F and 45 F. A cardboard box or Styrofoam chest in the garage, basement or cellar can usually duplicate the conditions of an old-fashioned root cellar.

ALCOHOL KILLS

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of June 20-26, 2021

With the brilliant moon in our sky this week, stargazers must settle for viewing bright stars. And there are no brighter stars of the season than those of the summer triangle, now appearing low in the eastern sky after dark.

The summer triangle is not an official constellation but rather an asterism: a group of stars that we can trace to resemble something familiar. In fact, each of its three bright stars -- Vega, Deneb and Altair -- is the brightest of its own separate constellation. But that doesn’t mean that early storytellers have passed over this prominent star grouping.

For example, an ancient Chinese love tale says that 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 tiny constella-

Ordinary rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol labeled 70% or greater kills roaches faster than commercial pesticides. Just keep it in a spray bottle; a couple of squirts will do the trick. Label the spray bottle clearly and store well out of the reach of children.

STAINED WICKER

To remove mold and mildew from wicker furniture, wipe with a mixture

of 25% white vinegar and 75% water. Allow it to penetrate for a few minutes, and then wipe again with plain water.

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everyday-

STARGAZERS

The Summer Triangle

tion of Lyra, the harp. This brilliant white star lies about 150 trillion miles from us (about 25 light years). It is about two-anda-half times larger and shines some 50 times more brilliantly than our sun. Because it burns so rapidly, astronomers believe that Vega will probably exhaust its fuel in only one-tenth the time as our sun, making its expected life span only about one billion years.

Movie buffs may remember this star as the one from which radio astronomers in the 1997 fictional motion picture “Contact” detected intelligent signals. I guess that would make Vega ... heh heh ... a movie star!

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, which means “the flying eagle” in English. Altair lies about 96 trillion miles (17 light years) from us. In other words, the light from this star that strikes our eyes tonight has been traveling through space since 2004.

Not only is Altair one of the nearest stars in our sky, but it’s also one of the most rapidly rotating. Astronomers have

determined that this white star spins once every 6.5 hours, completing nearly four rotations for every one made by the Earth. Because of this rapid spin, astronomers think that centrifugal force may compress Altair so much that it might appear more like an egg than a sphere.

Finally, Deneb lies farthest to the north, marking the tail of the great swan Cygnus, which is more easily recognized as the Northern Cross. Though they’re not sure, astronomers think that Deneb lies some 15,400 trillion miles (about 2,600 light years) from us -- so far that we see it tonight as it appeared around 600 B.C. -around the time it is said that Babylonian

cheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” Tips can be submitted at tips.everydaycheapskate.com/. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

King Nebuchadnezzar II was building the Hanging Gardens. The light leaving the star tonight won’t arrive here until the 47th century!

If it is that distant, Deneb could be one of the most brilliant in our entire galaxy. With a luminosity equivalent to 200,000 suns, it 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!

25,

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ANNOUNCEMENTS NOVENAS/PRAYERS

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine of Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin assist me in this necessity. Oh Star of the Sea help me and show herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth I beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succor me this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to Thee (three times). Oh Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. This prayer must be said for three days and after three days your request will be granted. The prayer must be published. Grateful thanks. (J.E.D.)

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Spacious

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REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

GARAGE/PARKING SPACE FOR RENT

STEWART MANOR

PARKING SPACE AVAILABLE

Do you need a safe place to store/park your car for a few months? My driveway in Stewart Manor is available. $75/ month.

Call Diane 516-437-3066

OFFICE SPACE

OFFICE CONDOMINIUM FOR PURCHASE OR LEASE

1505 sf Office Condominium located in a nicely appointed Professional Building immediately adjacent to Garden City.

It contains one oversized office that can easily accommodate three people at traditional executive desks, three single-occupant executive offices, a fully functional kitchen, half bathroom, and an additional office suitable for your desired purpose. The unit has been completely renovated with a bright, comfortable appearance.

Asking Price $225,750.

Please Contact:

Thomas DeGruccio 516-5280460

VACATION RENTAL

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Best selection of full /partial week rentals. FREE Color Brochure. Holiday Real Estate, Inc: 1-800-638-2102. Online reservations:

www.holidayoc.com

$50 discount new rentals Code “ToTheBeach2021” (Expires 06-21-2021)

HOMES WANTED

GARDEN CITY HOME WANTED

Retired couple sold GC home and wish to purchase Cape Cod or Ranch style home in Village.

Can pay all cash. Close now; move at your convenience. Principals Only. Call : 516-747-1024

SERVICES

** EVON’S SERVICES ** HOME HEALTH AIDES ELDER CARE CHILD CARE AND MORE! We offer the following services: Companions, Home Health Aides/Elder Care Child Care and Housekeeping Laborers Days / Nights Live In or Live Out NO FEE TO EMPLOYERS Call: 516-505-5510

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99 /mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation!

CALL 888-508-5313

Dr. Marlene Levy (PhD,LCSW,DAAPM) Virtual and Outdoor CLINICAL HYPNOSIS & PSYCHOTHERAPY. Call 516-944-3885

FITNESS/MASSAGE

Virtual workout available via Zoom. One on One Rehabilitation in the comfort of your home.

Following COVID-19 Safety Practices. Contact: 917-612-0460 Andersongourdet@gmail.com

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

WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED

HHA, LPN, Nurse’s Aide, Childcare, Housekeeping & Day Workers. No Fees to Employers. Call Evons Services 516-505-5510

SERVICES

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

*Minor Electrical & Plumbing

28 year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154

AQUATEC

LAWN SPRINKLERS SPRING TURN ONS Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service/Repairs Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

CHIMNEY KING ENT. INC.

FREE ESTIMATES

Stainless steel liners

cleaning & repair specialists. Masonry specialist. FULLY licensed & insured. NYC NASSAU SUFFOLK 516-766-1666 or 631-225-2600 Since 1982 chimneykinginc.com

ELIMINATE GUTTER

CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off and 0% financing for those who qualify. PLUS Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-877-763-2379

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

FREE ESTIMATES

Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone.

Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146

LAMPS FIXED $65 In home service. Handy Howard. 646-996-7628

MADE IN THE SHADE

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

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

MASONRY

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

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

NEVER PAY FOR COVERED HOME REPAIRS AGAIN!

Complete Care Home Warranty COVERS ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE. $200.00 OFF + 2 FREE MONTHS! 866-440-6501

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY!

Slate & Tile Specialists All types of Roofing Local References

Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

ROOF LEAKS REPAIRED

Slate Roof Repairs

Caulking/Roof Maintenance

Copper Flashing Replacements

Shingle Roof Repairs

Snow Guards/Roof Vents Nassau Lic#H1859520000

B.C. Roofing Call 631-496-9711 (Office) or 516-983-0860 (Owner direct)

THE GENERAC PWRcell a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-888-871-0194

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo

PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections. com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

SERVICES

TUTORING

ELA TUTOR Available to assist your child with summer reading assignments, build and develop general reading and writing skills, guide your child in ELA summer enrichment, reading for pleasure, vocabulary building, study skills and journal writing.

NY State certified with 20 plus years experience. Please text: 516-458-2136

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

DEEP CLEANING EXPERTS

Commercial and Residential Window, Gutters, Power Washing

Call Richie 917-553-8008

Email: delgadothebestcleaning@gmail. com

GARDEN CITY

WINDOW CLEANING

HOME WINDOW CLEANING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR SERVICE BY OWNER

Fully Insured/25 yrs experience

516-764-5686

631-220-1851

Love to write?

SERVICES

A & J MOVING & STORAGE:

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

DISH TV

$64.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95

High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo expires 7/21/21

Call 1-888-609-9405

SERVICES

LEAK REPAIRS

Plumbing Repairs

Bathrooms, Showers, Kitchens

24 HOUR SERVICE

Call 516-668-5624

PASSION FOR SENIORS. CERTIFIED HHA’S, Companions & Homemakers. 24 hour care available. Also Nassau locations. Trained in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Call 718850-3400

Solar-powered pump out barge available

The Town of Oyster Bay recently unveiled a new Solar-Powered Pump Out Barge in Oyster Bay Harbor. This new equipment will ensure it is convenient for boaters to discharge wastes in a manner that protects the delicate marine ecology of the harbor without emitting additional greenhouse gases.

“This state-of-the-art Solar-Powered

Pump Out Barge is a welcome addition to our community and an important aspect of the town’s commitment to environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability,” said Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Louis Imbroto. “Not only will it prevent the discharge of untreated waste into our waterways at no charge to boaters, but it will also help reduce the town’s carbon footprint.”

In addition to providing a self-service Pump Out Barge that is available seven days a week and twenty-four hours a day, The Town of Oyster Bay also now offers boaters the opportunity to schedule their pump our service through its online portal.  You can access this portal for free pumpout service for Oyster Bay Harbor at www.

oysterbaytown.com/pumpout. This service is available Thursday through Sunday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (extended hours and pump-out days will be available on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day). To contact the pump out boats directly, boaters can use VHF Channel 9, or call (516) 375-9864.

Town partners with Islanders to offer street hockey clinic

The Town of Oyster Bay is partnering with the New York Islanders to offer children in kindergarten through seventh grade a street hockey clinic. The program will be held at Town parks in SyossetWoodbury, Massapequa and Farmingdale.

“We are so pleased to partner with the New York Islanders to offer this fun and affordable Street Hockey Clinic, which will run for six weeks at three Town facilities,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This great program will introduce girls and boys to the

game of hockey through a non-competitive, instructional clinic.”

The six-week program will be offered at the following locations:

Syosset-Woodbury Community Park 7800 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury

Friday evenings July 2 to August 6

• 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.: Grades K–2

(K–2 program is at capacity)

• 5:45 p.m.–6:45 p.m.: Grades 3–5

• 7:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.: Grades 6 & 7

Marjorie Post Community Park

451 Unqua Road, Massapequa

Sunday mornings June 27 to August 8

(*no class July 4)

• 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.: Grades K–2 (K–2 program is at capacity)

• 10:45 a.m.–11:45 a.m.: Grades 3–5

• 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. Grades 6 & 7

Ellsworth Allen Town Park 45 Motor Avenue, Farmingdale

Monday evenings June 28 to August 2

• 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.: Grades K–2

• 5:45 p.m.–6:45 p.m.: Grades 3–5

• 7:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.: Grades 6 & 7

Space for the Street Hockey Clinic is limited. Registration is $125 per person – all participants receive a New York Islanders hockey stick and gift bag. Rain dates will be rescheduled whenever possible. Residents are encouraged to register online at NewYorkIslanders.com/StreetHockey. For more information, call (516) 501-6700 ext. 4, or email communityrelations@newyorkislanders.com

Girl Scout collects donations for homeless children

Girl Scout Liana Altamirano with Oyster Bay Town Councilwman Vicki Walsh and Town Clerk Richard LaMarca.

The Town of Oyster Bay recently recognized Girl Scout Liana Altamirano of Troop 202 in Oyster Bay. As part of earning her religious award, Liana raised $200 in charitable funds from family and friends to help homeless children celebrate their birthdays. Liana purchased toys and wrapping paper for donation

to Birthday Wishes of Long Island, a not-for-profit organization located in Hicksville.  Through the efforts of volunteers and donations, the organization provides birthday parties to over 1,250 homeless children each year, including gifts, homemade cupcakes, goody bags, activities and crafts.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FORMATION

AJR Keepsakes, LLC.

Filed with the SSNY on 5/13/21. Office: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to USCA, Inc. at 7014 13th Ave, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

BN 7507

6X 06/04,11,18,25,07/02,09

NOTICE OF FORMATION

GW Capital Infinity, LLC.

Art. of Org. filed Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 4/20/2018. Office location: New York County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom pro-

cess against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 25 Preston Ln, Syosset, NY 11791. Purpose: any lawful activity.

SYO 4392

6X 06/11,18,25,07/02,09,16

NOTICE OF FORMATION

IIC Realty LLC.

Art. of Org. filed Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/18/2021. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 17 Pal St, Plainview, NY 11803. Purpose: any lawful activity.

SYO 4393

6X 06/11,18,25,07/02,09,16

Town collects 44 pints at blood drive

To help hospitals meet the ongoing and pressing need for blood, the Town of Oyster Bay partnered with New York Blood Center to host a Blood Collection Drive recently at the Hicksville Athletic Center. The donation drive was held in conjunction with the NY Blood Center, and 44 pints of blood were collected at this Collection Drive. A single pint of blood can save up to three lives, so donations from this blood drive will potentially save up to 132 lives. Above, Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Tom Hand, and Town Clerk Rich LaMarca with blood drive personnel.

Seventh-grader featured as speaker at global conference

South Woods Middle School seventh-grade student Grace Chenxin Liu was recently invited as one of the highlighted speakers and panelists during the 2nd Global Conference on Women's Studies. The conference which was held on June 10-12 in Berlin Germany had both virtual and in-person formats, making her the youngest speaker and panelist for the conference history! During the conference, Grace presented her recent academic paper entitled “Breaking the Barriers in Women’s Fencing: Historical Roots, Title IX and Empowerment of Women.” Grace, as the sole author, has published this paper in the conference proceedings. The paper will also be given the opportunity to be published in an indexed international journal. In her presentation, Grace gave special thanks to Mr. Gregory Ryan, retired Project Beyond teacher of South Woods Middle School, for his continued support throughout her research project.

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Levittown BOE applauds students and retirees

The Levittown Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting on June 9 at Levittown Memorial Education Center where several students and 67 retirees were recognized.

Surrounded by their proud family members, one student-artist from each school in the district was announced by Frank Creter, director of art, family and consumer sciences and technology. Each school year, the district selects an artist/art piece of the month. Mr. Creter congratulated the talented students who were chosen during the 2020–2021 school year and thanked their art teachers for their hard work. Each student will have their artwork appear in the district’s 2021–2022 calendar. Board members recognized the following student-artists and presented each of them with their art piece beautifully framed:

• Raengel Garcia Garcia, 5th grade, Abbey Lane Elementary School

• Diane Gavrylyuk, 11th grade, General Douglas MacArthur High School

• Emma Klein, 3rd grade, Gardiners Avenue Elementary School

• Natalie Longobucco, 8th grade, Jonas E. Salk Middle School

• Grace Marazzo, 10th grade, Division Avenue High School

• Olivia Morgenstern, 4th grade, Lee Road Elementary School

• Skyla Najib, 3rd grade, Summit Lane Elementary School

• Jianna Testamark, 7th grade, Wisdom Lane Middle School

• Sanari Yousuf, 3rd grade, East Broadway Elementary School

Student-artists from the Levittown Public Schools were honored by the Levittown Board of Education for their exceptional artwork this school year.

• All Northside Elementary School students for their collaborative art project “Beauty Emerges,” led by art teacher Nikki Kessler

Following the presentation, the Board honored the two high school seniors whoserved as student liaisons at the board meetings this year. They attended each meeting and reported on positive news and events happening in their school buildings. MacArthur High School Principal Joseph Sheehan praised

MacArthur’s liaison James Katcher, while Division Avenue High School Principal John Coscia praised Division Avenue’s liaison Jasmeet Sahota. Both students were presented with a plaque and received an abundance of thanks by board members for representing their schools so well during this unprecedented school year.

In addition, the Board honored 67 staff members who are retiring at the end of the school year. In total, these

retirees have served the district for 1,634 years. Debbie Rifkin, assistant superintendent for human resources, presented a video slideshow which featured a photo of each retiree, their years of service and best wishes from their fellow colleagues. Each retiree will receive a copy of the beautiful sendoff.

The Board will meet again next month on July 7 for its annual reorganization meeting.

Photos courtesy of the Levittown Public Schools

Syosset fifth-grade students advance to secondary level

On June 16 and June 18, fifth grade students from the Syosset elementary schools participated in moving up ceremonies as they celebrated the culmination of their elementary education and advancement to the secondary level. The students, eager and well-prepared to enter H.B. Thompson or South Woods Middle School this fall, beamed with excitement and pride as they came together to celebrate their accomplishments in front of audiences during

outdoor ceremonies at their respective schools.

During the ceremonies, fifth graers from A.P. Willits, Berry Hill, J. Irving Baylis, Robbins Lane, South Grove, Village and Walt Whitman were honored with multiple awards, from academic awards to recognitions for their participation in student council, NYSSMA, and the character education program PRIDE, to name a few. They were commended not only for edu-

cational achievements, but for their strong character development throughout their years at the elementary level.

Principals and teachers announced and presented each student with a certificate to recognize their achievement

in front of family, faculty members, Board trustees and friends and wished them well as they continue their educational journeys.

Photos courtesy of the Syosset School District

Levittown eighth-graders ready to meet new academic challenges

Eighth-grade students at Jones E. Salk and Wisdom Lane middle schools are ready to take the next academic step in their secondary education as they celebrated an important milestone in what was a unique year of learning. On June 14 and June 15, respectively, the students joined their parents under a large tent at the Levittown Memorial Education Center during one of three separate celebrations and to participate in the traditional moving-up ceremonies.

Salk Middle School Principal John Zampaglione told the students that they are “ready, willing and able to meet the challenges ahead,” especially after the challenges that were overcome during the school year.

Select eighth-grade choir members sang the national anthem and Andra Day’s inspirational tune “Rise Up” to mark the occasion. Mr. Zampaglione also announced the winners of special academic, character, community and athletic awards. Student Council representative Meghan Lazzarini took the podium to reflect on time spent at Jonas E. Salk and to look ahead at what the

future brings as she and her peers enter Macarthur High School in the fall. She explained that moving-up “is the beginning of young adulthood and a reflection of time spent at Salk.”

Superintendent of Schools Tonie McDonald addressed the graduates at both ceremonies and congratulated them for being “kind-hearted kids” and for leading the school as role models. She said that high school will be a “piece of cake” after what they have all been through this past year. She also reminded the students that the people around them love and care about them.

In his opening words, Wisdom Lane Principal John Avena likened the 2020-2021 school year  to Plan B, when nothing goes as it should and you’re faced with the decision to sink or swim. “It is with confidence that I can say in the last 15 months you have learned that respect, responsibility and hard work can turn Plan B into Plan A.”

Additionally, Division Avenue High School Principal John Coscia welcomed the eighth-graders to the high school and

Levittown eighth-graders ready to meet new academic challenges

described how to become a dragon. He also said, “I look to you to continue the standards of excellence and to aid in the restoration of traditions.”

Catherine Dinolfo also gave the eighth-grade address, which was a reflection of the class’s experiences at the middle school and what each of them has to look forward to in high school.

The students then walked across the dais as their names were called and were handed their moving up certificates. The students then congregated under the tent to say goodbye to classmates, take photos under the balloon arch and to thank special faculty.

Photos courtesy of the Syosset School District

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“Cruise Thru Food Drop”collection drive set for June 26

The Town of Oyster Bay has announced that it will partner with Island Harvest Food Bank and Car Show Long Island to host a special food drive called the “Cruise Thru Food Drop” on Saturday, June 26 (rain date of June 27), at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa. The food drive will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and benefit our neighbors in need during this public health crisis, with the donations going to help and

restock local food banks throughout Long Island.

“As the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to impact our fellow Long Island residents, many people are facing a great hardship at this time. The fine work of organizations like Island Harvest touch the lives of so many Long Islanders who are less fortunate, and their work has become more crucial than ever during these uncertain

times,” Supervisor Saladino said. “I am proud that the Town will be partnering with Car Show Long Island to host a Cruise Thru Food Drop for our neighbors in need, as this event will not only help provide residents with a fun outlet to give back to those in need, but also practice social distancing while helping to champion a great cause!”

The Town, Island Harvest, and Car Show LI are asking residents to assist

by providing the necessities to their neighbors in need of food assistance by donating non-perishable food items and pet food at this event. Show cars and non-show cars alike are welcomed, and proper social distancing guidelines will be followed throughout the course of the event while collecting food donations.

For more about Island Harvest and their amazing mission, residents can visit www.islandharvest.org.

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