Who says Manhattan is too far from Jericho, Long Island and can't be reached easily and punctually?

I agree, that on many occasions, I have sat on the Long Island Expressway and wondered and worried "Am I going to make the 8 p.m. curtain?" It is always a gamble.

From my home in Jericho there is no time aspect that I can place, exactly, on a trip into the Big Apple. I have done it in an hour and it has also taken me a nerve chilling two hours.

I have recently discovered the secret. I can now get you to Manhattan in 25 to 30 minutes. A half hour and you are on the East Side at 34th St.

The simple answer - Leave Jericho at 5:30 a.m.!

You will observe a minimum number of automobiles clogging the roads. You will think you are in South Dakota or Kansas. No constant beeping or braking that time of the morning. I have also noticed many more motorcycles than at more conventional hours.

A Sikh, beturbaned gentleman selling the Daily News, will greet you warmly at the Midtown Tunnel. If there are any parking spaces on the street (doubtful), they will be more available at 5:30 a.m. than at 8 or 9 a.m. This is a proven fact. Also most parking garages offer Early Bird specials.

Unfortunately, you will be at your destination one or two hours before your appointment time. Then it is proper to open up the Daily News that you purchased and get ready for the Jumble puzzle.

Walk slowly toward your final destination. No need to hurry that time of the day. If you are lucky you will get a peek at the Sunrise poking between the skyscrapers and apartment buildings.

Pick out a Bagel-shop luncheonette or diner. Sit down and order your "Bagel with a schmeer" and a cup of coffee.

When you arrive at the appointed place you will be well fed and well rested and ready and eager to do business.

It's easy - Just leave your home at 5:30 a.m.!

P.S. Get a good night's sleep, the night before!