centereach jan 2020.qxp issue layoutourplacenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/centereach-1.pdfthis...

Vol. 15 No. 10January 2020SELDEN

January 2020 To Advertise Call 631-224-9500 2 Say You Saw It In “Our Place” Centereach

Visit our new web site at www.OurPlaceNews.com



NEEDED AARP VOLUNTEER TEAM

MEMBERS IN BROOKHAVEN!

Meet new people, impact your community, learn about local issues, get information about AARP programs and

discounts in addition to volunteer opportunities. Join

us on the first Thursday of each month, from 12:30 p.m.

till 2:30 p.m. at Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai

Coram Road, Mount Sinai, New York 11766. Parking is free.

For information, contact [email protected].

MOMS CLUB OF WESTERN

BROOKHAVEN MOMS Club of Western

Brookhaven is part of MOMS Club International and we are a non-profit support group for stay-at-home moms and for moms who work part-time. We get together for playgroups, field trips, moms nights out and more. Serving Centereach, Farmingville, Hauppauge, Holbrook,

Holtsville, Lake Grove, Lake Ronkonkoma, Nesconset, Port Jefferson, Ronkonkoma, Selden and surrounding areas. We meet the last Thursday of every month. Contact Moms Club Western BrookHaven at [email protected] for more information.

SHORT WINTER JOKE

What sits on the bottom of the cold

Arctic Ocean and shakes?

A nervous wreck.

JANUARY IS...

January is the first month of the year in our modern day Gregorian calendar, and its predecessor the Julian calendar. It consists of 31 days and the first day of the month is known as New Year’s Day. It is named after the Roman god, Janus, the god of doors because this month is the door to the year. The Roman god Janus represents all beginnings and possesses the ability to see all things past and future.



TEENS EARN MONEY Sachem Community Youth Services has

yardwork, babysitting, housecleaning, and other odd jobs for

Sachem/Brookhaven Town residents, ages 13-20. For more information

please call 585-1811.



MARINE IS ON A MISSION TO LIVE BY MOTTO, GET HIS PUP OUT OF AFGHANISTAN

THE GUARDIANS OF RESCUE IS HELPING A MARINE BRING HOME A DOG HE RESCUED STUCK IN RAZOR WIREThe Marines live by the motto of never leaving anyone behind. For some that includes a dog they have rescued during deployment, and have bonded with. The loyalty from Captain Dave and his unit and the dog that they rescued goes both ways, and now his wish is to bring her back home to the United States with him when he returns soon. Guardians of Rescue have helped other military members pull off this same mission, and they are seeking public donations to help pull it off again. "Captain Dave’s loyalty to Sox is like no other, and he believes in the idea of not leaving her behind,” explains Robert Misseri, president of Guardians of Rescue, an animal rescue organization. “We know that we can help bring Sox back to America to live out her life with him, but we need the public’s support, because it’s costly to do. We are grateful to be working with Nowzad shelter in Kabul, because without their assistance this pup would not have a chance of coming to America.” Captain Dave is stationed in a remote area in Afghanistan. He is scheduled to come back home to the United States in early 2020. He can’t imagine leaving Sox behind because he loves her. He first saw Sox when she was a puppy, finding her caught in concertina wire in their camp. He freed her, gave her food and water, and sent her on her way. However, Sox had different plans. In the days that followed, Sox started coming back

to their camp each day, feeling safe around the unit and seeking food and water. Some of the other men had even seen the dog being abused out on the streets. Soon, Sox began staying by their side all of the time, even tagging along on some of their missions. On a recent patrol, Sox ventured too far away from the unit and was whipped with a stick by a local. It was at that time that Captain Dave knew he could never leave her behind to fend for herself. “The bond I have with Sox is something I didn’t expect, but I just can’t leave her behind,” says Captain Dave. “If I don’t bring her home with me I am afraid I’ll always regret it and wonder about what happened to her. I appreciate any assistance people can give in helping me to bring her home with me.” Relocating a dog from the Middle East to America can be done, but it comes at a high cost. Along with paying fees to allow the dog to leave, there is medical care, airfare, and other relocation expenses involved. Those would like to give a donation to help bring Sox home with Captain Dave can log online: . Guardians of Rescue provides assistance to animas out on the streets and investigates animal cruelty cases. They are located in New York and they help animals in many places around the country. They are also instrumental in helping military members with their pets. To learn more, get involved, or to make a donation to support the Guardians of Rescue, log onto www.guardiansofrescue.org.

ARTS AND CRAFTS PROGRAM

Sachem Community Youth Services offers a free Arts and Crafts program for ages 7-12. Fridays 4:15-5:00. Come be creative

and have fun! Please call 585-1811 for more details.

JANUARY IS... National Bath Safety Month National Blood Donor Month

National Braille Literacy Month National Hobby Month

Hot Tea Month National Oatmeal Month

National Soup Month



SMITH MEETS WITH STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT AHEAD OF 2020 LEGISLATIVE

SESSION Assemblyman Doug Smith (5th District) was pleased to meet with Stony Brook University Interim President Dr. Michael Bernstein on Tuesday, December 10, 2019. Smith, who serves as the Ranking Member on the Assembly Committee on Higher Education, is appreciative of Dr. Bernstein for providing Smith with his perspective as he prepares to head

back to Albany for the 2020 Legislative Session. “I value my continued partnership with the leadership, staff and students at Stony Brook University as they play a critical role in our community,” Smith said. “I am grateful that Dr. Bernstein spent time with me discussing a wide range of topics. As always, I am committed to supporting all higher education institutions throughout our state and ensuring that the next generation of New Yorkers is as prepared as any to be successful leaders in our communities.”

Assemblyman Doug Smith (5th District) left and Stony Brook

University Interim President Dr. Michael Bernstein right

BROOKHAVEN TOWN SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR 34TH

ANNUAL WOMEN’S RECOGNITION AWARDS

The Brookhaven Town Division of Women’s Services is seeking nominations for outstanding women of Brookhaven. Community groups, businesses and individuals are being asked to nominate women they believe are deserving of special recognition for their outstanding service to the community as a professional or volunteer. Eligible candidates must live or work in Brookhaven Town and all nominations should include a resume or equivalent document and two letters of recommendation. This year, the Town will be celebrating its 34th Annual Women’s Recognition event during Women’s History Month, with a special celebration to be held in March 2020. CATEGORIES FOR NOMINATIONS INCLUDE: Arts, Business, Communications/Media, Community Service Volunteer, Education, Government, Health

Care Providers, Legal Profession, Military/Law Enforcement/First Responders, Religion, Science,

Sports

The deadline for nominations is Friday, January 31, 2020. Forms are available at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill in Farmingville, online at www.BrookhavenNY.gov/WomensRecognition or by calling the Division of Women’s Services at 631-451-6146.



YOUTH COUNCIL Sachem Community Youth Services

has a Youth Council that is looking for new members.

Are you a motivated young person between the ages of 10 and 18, who woud like to make a difference in your

community? Join our Youth Council! Volunteer hours look great on job, Honor Society, and College applications! Make new

friends, feel good about yourself, and have fun! We meet on Tuesdays from 5:00-6:00pm. Call 585-1811.

SHORT WINTER JOKE

What do chefs call "Baked Alaska" in Alaska?

"Baked Here"



150 Holbrook Road • Holbrook, NY 11741

ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THESE FREE EVENTS AT THE SACHEM PUBLIC LIBRARY. FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO REGISTER, CALL 631-588-5024.

DNA GENEALOGY GROUP OF LONG ISLAND HELP, I’VE OPENED A DNA CAN OF WORMS!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 10:30AM A panel of speakers will discuss the DNA surprises they uncovered and how they handled the challenges that resulted from their discoveries.

TWO FOR THE ROAD FASANO AND COMSTOCK

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5 2:00PM

This glamorous Manhattan duo makes the songbook come alive, from coast to coast and in Europe, withsongs from Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Stephen Sondheim, Joni Mitchell, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Paul Simon and other geniuses of jazz, pop, and Broadway.

EVEN NOW A TRIBUTE TO BARRY MANILOW


Lydia Sabosto tells the story of Barry Manilow’s rise to stardom from his earliest musical experiences through his jingle-writing years and gold records. She is joined by singer Richard Fisichello whose voice is reminiscent of Barry’s in his prime.

THE KARPENTEERS A TRIBUTE TO THE CARPENTERS


The Karpenteers bring you the very best of the Carpenters, the biggest-selling pop group of the 70s. From the first few piano chords, to the smooth, catchy vocal melodies, to the lush harmonies and brilliant arrangements, this versatile quartet masterfully recreates the magic that is the Carpenters.

GOING VEGAN: FIND OUT HOW & WHY MONDAY, JANUARY 6 7:00PM

Are you interested in eating better for health? Are you concerned about animals, or the environment? Whatever your motivation, bring your questions & learn great tips for replacing animal products in your life. As a contributor to Dr. Michael Greger'sNutritionFacts.org site, Jennifer Greene strives to dispel nutrition myths and inspire positive change.

MINDFUL EATING, MINDFUL DRIVING & GETTING A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP MONDAY, JANUARY 13 7:00PM

Mindfulness Coach, Lou Maurio will give you mindful strategies for improving your diet and digestion, awareness and patience while driving, as well as finally getting the restful sleep your body needs.

ADULTS WITH SPECIAL CHALLENGES INTERVIEW SKILLS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 12:00PM

Find out how to ace the job interview with important communication skills, and practice what you learn in a relaxed setting. Facilitated by Career Counselor Richard Gluck. No registration required.

COIN & STAMP APPRAISAL WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 1:30PM

If you would like to learn the value of old stamps or coins you may have hidden away, sign up for a brief verbal appraisal with local expert Frank McAlonan. A maximum of 2 albums of stamps will be permitted.Registration required.

WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 7:00PM

Learn how to prevent assault, rape, and abduction through traditional martial arts techniques. Part lecture/part active participation, this presentation focuses on how to advocate for a world focused on respect, harmony, and living in calmness of mind. There will be no kicking or punching involved.

WINTER PIANO CONCERT SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 12:00PM

Relax and enjoy a winter afternoon performance of classics and popular pieces by students of all levels and ages studying with members of the Suffolk Piano Teachers Foundation. Visit suffolkpianoteachers.org

INVESTIGATING THE LI SERIAL KILLER WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22 7:00PM

Attorney John Ray will speak about the Long Island Serial Killer (LISK) investigations and evidence, including the 911 tapes and Dr. Baden's analysis of Shannan Gilbert's hyoid bone (and Jeffery Epstein's hyoid bone), witchcraft, as well as other contemporary controversial cases.

SACHEMCON SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 12:00PM-4:00PM

Cosplay, crafts, games, live art demos, musical performances, and more! Our featured guest is George O’Connor, author and artist of The Olympians *ITAL graphic novel series. Along with other artists, he'll be judging comic creations in our first ìMock Eisner Awards: Create Your Own Graphic Storyî competition. No registration required. All ages are welcome.

DIVE BELIZE WITH THE FISH GUY MONDAY, JANUARY 27 7:00PM

Located 20 miles offshore from Belize City, the Turneffe Atoll is one of three atolls found on the Belize Barrier Reef. Dive along with the Fish Guy as he explores this pristine environment, showing through pictures and video the many fascinating creatures that call this reef home.

ART TALK: PAINTING NEW YORK - ART & DAILY LIFE FROM THE GILDED AGE TO THE DEPRESSION

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29 2:00PM

Art Historian Rena Tobey will provide a deep look at Impressionist and Realist art depicting the people and places of New York. Many of the city’s most successful artists celebrated this beauty through light-filled Impressionist paintings while others were inspired to show the city in its diversity of everyday life, its technological innovations kicking off modernity, and the underbelly of people struggling during this seemingly prosperous period. Walk away with a renewed appreciation of New York’s visual history that packs so much meaning for our city today.



MIDDLE COUNTRY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNOUNCES NYSSMA ALL-STATE MUSICIANS

NEWFIELD HIGH SCHOOL CHILD DEVELOPMENT CLASS VISITS NORTH COLEMAN ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

Six student musicians from the Middle Country Central School District were selected to perform in the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) All-State Performing Ensembles. From Newfield High School, Victoria Bartunek was chosen for All-State Symphonic Band, Logan Mazer was selected for All-State Wind Ensemble, Gabrielle Pegg was chosen for All-State Mixed Chorus, and Natalie Wilson was chosen for All-State Wind Ensemble. From Centereach High School, Laura Diaferia and Natalie Walsh were chosen for All-State Mixed Chorus. These six students traveled upstate to Rochester, N.Y. to perform at the Eastman Theatre. All-State Alternates from Newfield High School were Nick Douglas, Maggie Lasher, and Isabel Rodriguez for All-State Band, Julia Ingemi for All-State Orchestra, and Centereach’s Robert Montano was selected for the All-State Mixed Chorus but declined as he is currently performing at Radio City Music Hall in the Christmas Spectacular. Middle Country’s students were among 900 students selected to take part in this esteemed performance. The District is committed to providing students with opportunities to build their skills and hone their talents, sparking creativity and innovation. The District is proud of each of these students and their teachers—Dr. Harold Goldstein, Mr. Brian Hough, Ms. Joan Meichner, and Mr. Dan Martinez—for their continuous dedication and incredible work ethic.

MCCSD students selected for All-State sporting their gifted hoodies, compliments of the Middle Country Educational Foundation.

16 MIDDLE COUNTRY MUSICIANS PARTICIPATE IN ALL-COUNTY

NYSCAME/SCMEA Sixteen students from Middle Country Central School District (MCCSD) were selected to perform in the NYSCAME/SCMEA All-County Band, Orchestra and Chorus Festival. Held at Huntington High School, students from across Suffolk County convened to rehearse and perform an impressive repertoire of pieces under the direction of expert conductors. MCCSD’s participating students were selected based on their NYSSMA All-State score(s) from the previous spring, alongside various recommendations from their teachers. The District strives to provide students with opportunities such as this to foster creativity, hone their talents, and develop skills in an environment outside of the classroom.

CENTEREACH HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: Laura Diaferia, Soprano 2 – Mixed Chorus

Nick Galdemis, Bb Clarinet – All-County Band Evan Jenkins, Percussion – All-County Band

Robert Montano, Tenor 1 – All-County Mixed Chorus Suzanne Scaccio, Trombone 2 – All-County Band Natalie Walsh, Alto 2 – All-County Mixed Chorus

NEWFIELD HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS:

Victoria Bartunek, Baritone Sax – All-County Band Nicholas Douglas, Baritone Euphonium 1 –

All-County Band Jacob Grijalva, French Horn 3 – All-County Band

Eviana Holmes – All-County Treble Choir Julia Ingemi, Violin 2 – All-County Orchestra Maggie Lasher, Alto Sax 1 – All-County Band Logan Mazer, Clarinet 1 – All-County Band

Gabrielle Pegg, Soprano 2 – All-County Mixed Chorus Isabel Rodriguez, Flute 2 – All-County Band

Natalie Wilson, Trumpet 2 – All-County Orchestra

Middle Country Central School District high school students in the child development class at Newfield High School recently visited various classrooms at North Coleman Road Elementary School to complete their first field study experience. The upperclassmen observed and interacted with several of North Coleman’s Pre-K students to explore and gain first-hand experience in the educational career field.



REASONS TO BE HAPPY YOU’RE A HOMEOWNER IN 2020

Studies have shown that, in many cases, the largest asset a family owns is the house they live in. Over the last twelve months, that asset has gained substantial value. CoreLogic just released their 2019 3rd Quarter. The report revealed that:

“U.S. homeowners with mortgages (roughly 64% of all properties) have seen their equity increase by a total of nearly

$457 billion since the third quarter 2018, an increase of 5.1%, year over year.”

The equity in a property is determined by comparing the current value of the property against the outstanding mortgage debt. As prices rise, the equity in a home increases. The report went on to explain that the average homeowner gain in equity over the last twelve months was $5,300. Since the housing crash in 2008, many homeowners have felt trapped in their current houses, as they didn’t have enough equity to sell. The gains in equity over the past few years may have freed some homeowners who have a desire to move.

BOTTOM LINE

If you’re curious about your home’s equity, let’s get together to do a market analysis on the current value of your house. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Visit me at: Zillow.com/profile/Larry-McKenna

OR McKennaRealtyTeam.com

KARATE PROGRAM This 8 week program is a beginner karate class for students ages 7-12.

Students must register in advance and there is a $40 materials fee. This includes the uniform, administration fee and other

materials. Normal cost would be close to $180. Sachem CYS offers this

program in conjunction with LI Family Karate. Classes will take place on Thursdays from 4:15-5:00 pm. Please call Sachem Community Youth Services at 585-1811.

Happy New Year! A new year and a new decade. A few thoughts somewhat jumbling together from a community standpoint as the Holidays are now behind us and a new year ahead. Once again our community came together to assist 17 families, covering 35 kids, whose Christmas may have been a little less festive without the help of a stranger. As we all know, Christmas is not supposed to be about presents yet in the society we have created it must be very difficult to be a parent who cannot provide a few gifts for their children while others seem to be drowning in excess. So thank you to all who came forward, joining Sinko's Secret Santas, to make sure that whoever asked for a little help received it. Lessons to be learned here; if you are momentarily down, it is okay to ask for help. If you are in a position to help, helping others is the best feeling ever. So this opportunity is really a blessing to all. With each passing holiday season, there are more and more toy drives, coat drives, and food drives but we need to think bigger. Providing a toy to a child at Christmas is wonderful but what else can we do. We need to solve the underlying problems. For the upcoming year let's look for ways to help others in more substantial ways. Can you offer to watch a neighbor's kids so a parent can get a few extra hours of work? Or simply a much-needed break? Maybe make a meal or two for the family who is working so hard to make ends meet and just need a little encouragement. Maybe you can help make a connection between a person who is unemployed

or underemployed and a job opening. Spend some time with people who may not have others to really talk to. Your time and talents alone can be used in so many ways that probably would make the biggest positive impact in the life of another. A flip side to helping others is acknowledging those who you cannot help. We, here in Centereach, have an issue with some homeless people. Many of us via meetings and social media have been discussing this. We try very hard to start from a place of compassion. These people deserve better regardless of how they got there. However, after many attempts by a number of different individuals and professional organizations, some of them just don’t want any help. At least not right now. To this end, Centereach cannot allow a homeless population to start taking over our business parking lots on our main street. For those of you who are thinking that statement is a little dramatic, problems almost always start with one instance, then two and so on. So we are asking the property owners and the police to stay on top of this and we will do our part. As we start the new year let us recommit to each other as neighbors; that we will help one another where possible. We will look out for one another's safety and well being and support each other through our schools, community organizations and local businesses. And to state what should not need to be stated, of course, do no harm. - Here's to the possibilities!

By Diane Caudullo, President



JANUARY TRIVIA By Amelia Intravaia

1. What “King” was born on January 8, 1935? 2. What year did the first Burger King open in Miami? 3. Who was the first female Mayor of San Francisco? 4. The Sign in CA known as “Hollywood” was originally called what? 5. What is the January birthstone? 6. Name the January flower. 7. The birth of 8 babies at one time is known as what?

8. The first day of the 21st Century began when? 9. Where did the first winter Olympic Games take place? 10. Who created the Red Cross? 11. When was Minister Martin Luther King Jr born? 12. When was he assassinated and where? 13. What singer died in a plane crash in 1967 at the age of 26? 14. Who produced the movie “The Irishman”? 15. Name three of the famous Marx brothers.

A Blessed and Happy New Year to All – God Bless America

COUNSELING Sachem Community Youth Services

offers free, short term, formal counseling to youth and their families residing in the Brookhaven portion of Sachem School District. Counseling is being provided by a social worker.

Please call 585-1811 to make an appointment.

SACHEM CYS TUTORING PROGRAM

A free tutoring program is available for students K-12. All sessions take

place at the Sachem Public Library. We are also seeking tutor volunteers.

Choose your own schedule, grade level, and subjects. Training and materials are

provided. Please call 585-1811.



MARINO AND SON MEATS It is always fascinating to see father and son business entities. It can be the start of a family legacy and we have such a legacy happening here in Centereach. Marino and Son Meats, located at 2131Middle Country Road is a wonderful old-school style butcher. Started in 1988, when father and son team John Sr. and John Jr. purchased the existing O’Grady’s Meats. Thirty years later, John now has his son John, the 3rd generation as a welcomed addition to the market. Along with a full line of fresh meats and poultry, Marino and Son’s has quite a few foods already prepared, like marinated steak and stuffed meatloaf that you purchase grill or oven ready. They also offer many items already prepared that you can just heat and eat. They make twice baked potatoes: many of us don’t have the time to bake them once let alone twice. Also, homemade Mac and Cheese, Swedish meatballs and more. And when they hit the table you just get the credit for putting something so delicious on it. The Marino family encourages their employees to experiment with various recipes and quite a few have

become regular items you see in the cases. For example, Barbara’s broccoli jazz salad and homemade pot pies are customer favorites. One of his newer team members, Stephen, brings over 20 years of restaurant experience and they are both excited to see what new ideas he comes up with. Marino’s also has a great selection of cold cuts and specialty sandwiches. Every year on the first day of school Marino and Son’s offers a very special treat. They offer a free lunch to the many Mom’s getting back into the swing of things. Just stop in and get a sandwich. And although it is unofficially dedicated to the Mom’s, he welcomes the Dad’s as well. He does a Mother’s Day special as well. John and his son are also happy to do a special, free, Mother’s Day lunch as well. More than the quality of its products and fair prices, Marino’s is truly known for its customer service. As John was sure to highlight the specific talents of many, he mentioned, Tony, Chris, and Rob, who he considers experts in customer service. You could really see and hear John’s appreciation for every member of his staff which is probably why there is something very special about their connection with the customers in what could be seen as a very simple transaction. And as we all know, these

By: Diane CaudulloMiddle Country Spotlight on Small Business



JANUARY TRIVIA ANSWERS

1. Elvis Presley – King of Rock & Roll 2. 1934 3. Dianne Feinstein 4. Hollywood Land 5. Garnet 6. Carnation 7. Octuplets 8. January 1, 2001 9. Chamonix France 10. Clare Barton 11. January 15, 1929

12. April 4, 1968 Memphis Tennessee 13. Ottis Redding 14. Martin Scorsese

15 .Groucho – Chico and Harpo

FREE YOGA & MEDITATION FOR TEENS

Sachem Community Youth Services provides a Yoga & Meditation Program for youth ages 13-17. Mondays 7:00-8:00PM. Held at 4949 Express Dr N. Ronkonkoma. The world is a stressful place. Begin your week right and learn to breathe and relax! Space is limited. Call 631-585-1811.

BABYSITTERS & YARDWORKERS

AVAILABLE Sachem Community Youth

Services has pre-screened youth looking to be hired to babysit

and to do yardwork around your house. For more information, please call

585-1811.

SHORT WINTER JOKES

Q. What's a good holiday tip?

A. Never catch snowflakes with your tongue until all the birds have gone south

for the winter.

Q. What do you call a snowman in the summer?

A. A puddle!

Q. What do snowmen eat for breakfast? A. Frosted Flakes.

Q. What do you call an old snowman?

A. Water!

Q. What do you get if you cross a snowman and a shark?

A. Frost bite!

Q. What did Frosty call his cow? A. Eskimoo!

Q: What did the icy Arctic road say

to the truck? A: "Want to go for a spin?"

Q: What does a Snowman take when he gets sick?

A: A chill pill!



The Professional Insurance Agents of New York State reminds motorists that driving carefully in winter weather will help them arrive at their destinations safely, and keep their car insurance rates down too. Being prepared is smart protection for drivers, their loved ones and others on the road, especially in the upcoming winter conditions. “Make sure you have adequate coverage, including personal injury protection immediately—before heading out in the snow this season,” says PIANY President Fred Holender, CLU, CPCU, ChFC, MSFS. “Don’t fall victim to promises of cheap insurance that won’t meet your needs in the event of an accident. Your professional, independent insurance agent can review your policy and offer affordable suggestions that will help you recover your losses and protect your assets in the event of an accident. If an accident does occur, having a professional agent on your side will help make the claim process smooth and less stressful.” Once you are sure you have the right coverage for your unique circumstances, PIA suggests these safety tips to help keep you safe this winter: • Stay alert, slow down, and stay in control—three key elements of safe winter driving. • Drive according to highway and weather conditions. • Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. • Make sure your vehicle is mechanically ready for the rigors of winter with a maintenance check. • Have your tires checked before winter begins. Remember to check tire air pressure frequently, as it decreases in cold weather.

• Keep your fuel tank at least half full. • Make sure you have sufficient windshield washer fluid in the reservoir that is rated a minimum of -40°C temperature range. Keep an extra jug in the vehicle. • Clear snow and ice from all windows, lights, mirrors, and the roof of your car before getting on the road If you are involved in an accident, PIANY says, remember, safety comes first. If you or someone in your vehicle is injured, do not get out of the car unless you are in immediate danger. Call the police or 911. If everyone is alright and your cars are in traffic, move them off the street and into a safe area. It can be tempting to leave the police out of it if the damage appears to be minor. However, your insurance company might need an accident report from the police to file your claim. Your claim might be delayed if you don’t have it. While you wait for the authorities to arrive, exchange information with the other driver, such as insurance information; drivers license number; name; address and phone numbers. If there are witnesses to the accident, get their information with their phone numbers. If possible, write down as many details as you can about the accident while it’s still fresh in your mind. Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible to report the accident and have the claim process started. Take photos of the damage to all the vehicles involved as soon as possible. This will come in handy should the other driver try to claim more damage than the accident actually caused.

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