May 15, 2024 Farmingdale South

Honoring Outstanding Achievement

Farmingdale School District’s Annual Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony

The Farmingdale School District is delighted to extend its warm congratulations to the exceptional individuals selected as honorees for their remarkable accomplishments. Join us for the induction ceremony on Wednesday, May 29th, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. as we gather in the Lecture Hall at Farmingdale High School to celebrate and recognize these outstanding members of our community. We invite all family, friends, and colleagues to attend, share their joy, and celebrate their hard work and achievements.

36TH ANNUAL DRINKING WATER TASTING CONTEST - In honor of National Drinking Water Week, the Long Island Water Conference (LIWC) hosted its 36th annual drinking water tasting contest at Farmingdale State College from Tuesday, May 7 to Wednesday, May 8. 14 water providers from across Long Island vied for the title of best drinking water in Nassau County and Suffolk County, respectively. Pictured: Long Island Water Conference officials were on hand to distribute samples from different water providers so participants could select their favorites.

Long Island Water Conference Hosts 36th Annual Drinking Water Tasting Contest

In honor of National Drinking Water Week, the Long Island Water Conference (LIWC) hosted its 36th annual drinking water tasting contest at Farmingdale State College from Tuesday, May 7 to Wednesday, May 8. 14 water providers from across Long Island vied for the title of best drinking water in Nassau County and Suffolk County, respectively.

“Our annual drinking water tasting contest is one of the most exciting times of year for us,” said LIWC Chairman Jason Belle. “It not only serves as a fun, friendly competition between our many water providers, but it affords us the opportunity to engage with the residents whom we serve and help them understand just how much work goes into

providing them with highquality water every day.”

More than 240 participants voted for their favorite tasting water and received exciting giveaways. In addition, LIWC representatives educated attendees on the water delivered to the homes and answered questions on the treatment methods maintaining Long Island’s high-quality drinking water.

This year’s winners were the Bayville Water Department for Nassau County and the Suffolk County Water Authority for Suffolk County. For emerging triumphant with the best tasting drinking water, these water providers hold onto the coveted trophy for a year and win bragging rights among their fellow providers. They will also

participate in the New York State Regional Metro Tap Water Taste Contest held in New York City in early August to compete for entry into the statewide contest held at the Great New York State Fair. About the Long Island Water Conference

The LIWC has been committed to providing pure and plentiful water for the Long Island community since 1951. The LIWC represents over 50 water suppliers regionally and aims to provide and maintain an adequate and safe water supply today, while anticipating the water concerns of future generations. LIWC members provide more than 375 million gallons of clean water daily. For more information, please visit www.liwc.org.

LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP

PUBLISHER

Jeff Lambert

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Patty Franks

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Josh Marlowe

MANAGING

EDITOR

Felicia Edwards

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Noelle Lambert

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

Joe Lambert

Edward Rodriguez

ADMINISTRATION

Teri Tinkler

Diana Lambert

Dorrine Lambert

ADMIN & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Natalie Raccuglia

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Victoria Kokolakis

Stephan Schulze

PROOFREADING

Kerry Mastrobuoni

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVES

Carol Link

Bob Liquorie

Nicole Sims

Kim Volz

Bonnie Schifano

Lucille Moran

Terry Rydyzynski

Noelle Lambert

Kathy Trotta

SCAN

565 Broadhollow Road, Suite 3, Farmingdale, New York 11735 • 631.226.2636 www.longislandmediagroup.com

Honoring Outstanding Achievement

Farmingdale School District’s Annual Wall Of Fame Induction Ceremony

The Farmingdale School District is delighted to extend its warm congratulations to the exceptional individuals selected as honorees for their remarkable accomplishments. Join us for the induction ceremony on Wednesday, May 29th, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. as we gather in the Lecture Hall at Farmingdale High School to celebrate and recognize these outstanding members of our community. We invite all family, friends, and colleagues to attend, share their joy, and celebrate their hard work and achievements.

Announcing the 2024 Wall of Fame Honorees:

Dr. John R. Balcuk (Class of 2000) holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical and Health Education from Adelphi University, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University in 2023, and has transitioned from teaching to nursing. Passionate about reducing

nurse stress and promoting self-care, he focuses on staff development and leadership, leading a hospital-based CNA program. Dr. Balcuk is involved in hockey fundraising events and aims to pursue a full-time academic career.

Mr. Robert Waligunda (Class of 1963), a Master Pilot Balloonist, founded a successful balloon business after being inspired by hot air balloons. He gained national recognition for his achievements in ballooning, including a flight across the U.S. called “The Great American Balloon Adventure.” His contributions extended to Hollywood, theme parks, and philanthropy.

Mr. Waligunda’s legacy is honored at the Smithsonian Air Space Museum.

Mr. Greg Warnokowski (Class of 1985), Farmingdale’s Director of Fine and Performing Arts, has extensive professional

studies and experience as a band director. He is a skilled musician and pianist who performs with popular bands on Long Island. Appointed in 2020, he showed exceptional leadership during COVID-19, maintaining a highquality arts program. He is a former president of the Nassau Music Educators Association and has served in various organizational roles. In September 2023, the Farmingdale Community faced an insurmountable tragedy. During this challenging time, Mr. Warnokowski focused on supporting our community and ensuring that our music and arts programs continue to thrive.

Read more about our 2024 Wall of Fame inductees by visiting our website at www. farmingdaleschools. org and join us on May 29 at 6:30 p.m. for the Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Farmingdale High School School.

May Happenings

Make a submission! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x211 or send events to natalieraccuglia@longislandmediagroup.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

6:00PM-10:00PM

CHEFS FOR A CAUSE

Please support the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition at their annual Chefs for a Cause fundraiser at The Piermont in Babylon Village. 25 local restaurants will provide their signature dishes for thisl tasting event. Wine, beer and raffles. $100 per person. For more information, please call 631-893-4110.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

7:00PM-11:00PM

MUSIC THRU THE DECADES

The Our Lady of Grace RC Church in West Babylon will be hosting. $30 per person, includes beer, wine, soda, snacks, chicken nuggets, pasta, heros, salad and dessert. Please note this is not a dinner dance. For more information and tickets, please contact Rob Lodato at 631-747-0147 or Dave Lech at 631-422-3341.

8:30PM

CHARITY DRIVE-IN MOVIE

KiDS NEED MORE is hosting a charity drive-in movie. Proceeds benefit KiDS NEED MORE helping families coping with lifee-threatening illnesses. Just show up or reserve your parking spot at their website kidsneedmore.org/movie.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

9:00AM-1:00PM PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Youth Squad at Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance will be hosting their annual Pancake Breakfast. The menu will include pancake, sausage, bacon, coffee, hot chocolate, various teas, orange juice, apple juice, and all

the condiments needed for your pancake enjoyment. After you enjoy your pancakes, please buy tickets for the basket auction, and 50-50. For more information, please email firemedic518@live.com.

10:00AM-4:00PM SPRING FAIR

The North Babylon Lions are hosting a Spring Fair. Rain or shine at North Babylon High School. There will be bouncy rides, entertainment, vendors, food and much more. For more information, email Diane at dianedeluca1957 @gmail.com.

2:00PM

TWIN COUNTY CHORUS CONCERT

See the Twin County Chorus Chapter of Sweet Adelines International in concert at Farmingdale UMC, 407 Main Street, doors open 1:30PM. There will also be a Silent Auction and complimentary coffee and cake; admission is $20, seniors and students $15. Call the church office for tickets at 516-249-342.

12:30PM SPRING RAFFLE AUCTION

The Joseph Barry Columbiettes are sponsoring a Spring Raffle at the Joseph Barry Knights of Columbus hall in Hicksville. $12 per person. Call Susan at 516-680-8487 or email SueSarandis@gmail.com.

4:00PM-5:30PM

PAPER FLOWER WORKSHOP

Held at the BAFFA Art Gallery, 47 Gillette Ave in Sayville. Learn how to create a beautiful and handmade paper flower from sheet music. Course includes live demonstration, supplies, and a paper flower to take home. Pre-registration required. $20

for BAFFA members and $25 for non-members. For more information or to register, visit www.BAFFA.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 25

9:00AM-3:00PM

SPRING YARD SALE

The Yaphank Historical Society will hold our annual multi-vendor Spring Yard Sale on the grounds of the Robert & Isabella Hawkins House at 4 Yaphank Avenue, Yaphank There will be a large variety of crafts, collectibles, and household items. Rain date is Sunday, the 26th. For more information please email jrvavrina@optonline.net.

MONDAY, MAY 27

9:00AM

ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Join Sgt. John Sardiello Post 1634 of the American Legion as they pay their respect to fallen veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us free. Memorial Service and Wreath Ceremony to follow Community Picnic immediately following the ceremony. Held in West Babylon. Everyone is welcome. For more information please call them at 631-669-3931.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

12:00PM-5:00PM

ANTIQUE VINTAGE BOOK SALE

The Friends of the West Islip Library is doing a Vintage & Antique Book Sale on May 31st and June 1st from 9am-2pm. Held at the West Islip Public Library, 3 Higbie Lane. There will be a wide variety of books, including history, biographies, general fiction, children's literature, classics, and more. For more information call 631-2064206.

Long Island Town Supervisors Advocate For Regional Shellfish

Hatchery

Project Will Improve Water Quality & Provide Economic Benefits

Together with a coalition of Nassau and Suffolk County Town Supervisors, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino is calling on state leaders to include funding for a Regional Shellfish Hatchery in the state budget. The initiative seeks to preserve Long Island’s maritime heritage and bolster shellfish stocks throughout New York, which will in turn improve local water quality and provide regional economic benefits.

“The Town of Oyster Bay is a leader in sustainability, as our existing shellfish hatchery has been instrumental in enhancing the local shellfish population and filtering pollutants from our coastal waters,”

Supervisor Saladino said. “Through collaboration with neighboring towns and state support for the Regional Shellfish Hatchery, we can extend these benefits across Long Island and beyond, ensuring a cleaner, healthier marine ecosystem for all.”

The proposed hatchery, to be located in Islip’s Hecksher Park, will serve as a hub for shellfish recruitment and resource enhancement in the Great South Bay. It will serve multiple purposes to meet the needs of the growing aquaculture community, promote economic growth, and ensure the continuation of the tradition of farming in the Great South Bay.

The Town of Islip’s current facility is rapidly aging and has been negatively

impacted by climate change. Town Supervisors from across Long Island have joined these advocacy efforts, including Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Riverhead Town Supervisor Timothy C. Hubbard, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Daniel J. Panico, Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim, Hempstead Town Supervisor Donald X. Clavin, Jr., Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Z. Moore, Huntington Town Supervisor Edmund J. Smith, Southhold Town Supervisor Albert J. Krupski, Jr., Islip Town Supervisor Angie M. Carpenter, and North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer S. DeSena.

In

Upcoming Events

Farmingdale Village

Colored Colors presents Second Sundays in Downtown Farmingdale, along Main Street - on June 9th, from 12 - 4PM, weather permitting, free to attend. Sponsored by The Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce, Farmingdale Business Improvement District & other sponsors.

Vet Fest - Saturday May 18th, 10 AM - 2 PM - On the Village Green. Free to attend.

Farmingdale Open Mic & Jam Session nights, hosted by Chuck and Vinny: Tuesday: May 21st & June 11th, 7 PM - inside Village Hall (if weather permitting - On The Village Green), All Ages welcome to participate, email to register: openmicfarmingdale@ gmail.com, or sign-up at the event. Sponsored by the Farmingdale Village Cultural Arts Committee.

Memorial Day ParadeMonday, May 27th, 10 AM followed by a Ceremony on the Village Green

Join the Community to Remember, Honor & Salute our Heroes, those who made the ultimate sacrifice

in service to our Nation.

On 5/27/24, the Annual Memorial Day Parade down Main St. kicks off @ 10am at Northside School proceeding south on Main Street, ending at Village Hall; rain or shine. Followed by a Ceremony On The Village Green with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 516, VFW Auxiliary Post 516, American Legion, troops, groups +, 361 Main St. Note: street closures will occur for the Parade.

Special Thanks to ALL Heroes, Veterans, participants, VFW, troops, groups, all involved, & to ALL @ the Farmingdale Fire Department for planning/ sponsoring the parade!

Saturday June 1st

- Farmingdale Fire Department Spring Street Fair, along Main St., Fire Dept. Open House (rear of fire house): 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM - Along with Farmingdale Medieval History Day, hosted by The Canton of Lion’s End, On the Village Green (Farmingdale Cultural Arts Committee) rain date 6/8 Note: street closures will occur for this event.

Save The Dates / Upcoming Events: Weekly Farmer’s Market On the Village Green by Schneider’s Farm: Sundays, 6/2 – 11/24, 10 AM – 2 PM, weather permitting, 361 Main St.

The Long Island Chrysanthemum Society is hosting Beginners Exhibition Chrysanthemum Workshops - 6/15 & 8/17 at 1 pm at Village Hall, free starter plants, pots & soilstay tuned for more details

Plus more summer events ... Kiwanis Craft & Gift Fair 6/22 & 6/23, 10am-5pm, Village Pops Concerts On the Green, Wednesdays,7:30 pm, 6/26 - 7/31, Movies On The Green, Tuesdays at dusk, 7/9 -8/20 ) & Farmingdale Music On Main: 7/11, 7/25, 8/8 & 8/22 - 5-9pm www. farmingdalemusiconmain. com, check the Village website for more details www.farmingdalevillage. com

Calling All Artists!! Farmingdale’s 13th Annual Art in the Park - Sunday 9/15 - On the Village Green

Multi Family Sale! Sat. May 18th 10 am-4 pm Rain Da te: Sun. May 19th

Patio Furniture, Adult & Girls

Clothes, Flat Screen TV, Housewar es, High Chair, Stroller, Toys, Books, Auto Parts, Avon, Costume Jewe lry, FITT EAM Samples. Too Much To List!

Hazardous Material & Homeowners Cleanup Days Kickoff For 2024 Free Paper Shredding Services Available During Homeowners Cleanup

Oyster Bay Town

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom

Hand announce the Town’s S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) and Homeowners Cleanup

Days return for 2024 with dates scheduled for weekends in May. Residents can drop off materials at

the Old Bethpage Solid Waste Disposal Complex, located at 101 BethpageSweet Hollow Road in Old Bethpage.

Homeowners Cleanup

Days – Saturday, May 18th from 8:30am – 4pm: collects non-hazardous waste only, including: air conditioners; all e-waste;

campers; boats and boat trailers (proof of ownership required - oil, gas, other fluids and batteries removed); clean, broken concrete; large metal items; propane tanks and propane torches; tires; and yard waste.

“Many of our residents take the opportunity to

clean out their yards in the summer months and may have large amounts of non-hazardous debris to dispose,” said Councilman Hand. “Residents can bring items such as used tires, fence posts, clean broken concrete or yard waste to our Homeowners Cleanup.”

Free Paper Shredding

Services - Saturday, May 18th from 8:30am –4pm: provides residents an opportunity to destroy unwanted documents in a safe and secure manner.

Residents only, no businesses, can bring up to four bankers’ boxes of paper to the shredding program.

The Town’s S.T.O.P. and

Homeowners programs are open to residents within the Town’s Solid Waste Disposal District. Proof of residency is required. For more information, including a full list of what is accepted at these programs, visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ cleanup or call (516) 6775848.

Armed Forces Appreciation Day Celebration May 17th

Oyster Bay Town

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board announced that veterans and active United States military personnel are invited to the Town of Oyster Bay’s Armed Forces Appreciation Day Celebration slated for Friday, May 17th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, located at 7800 Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury. This free

event, open to Town of Oyster Bay veterans and active duty personnel, will include a BBQ and entertainment by the singing group American Bombshells.

“The Town of Oyster Bay is committed to serving veterans and ensuring they have access to important benefits in which they are entitled to,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This is an important way of thanking our brave

hometown heroes for protecting the freedoms we enjoy each and every day as Americans.”

President Harry S. Truman established Armed Forces Appreciation Day in 1950 as a day to pay

special tribute to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. This single holiday provides an opportunity for citizens to come together and thank

Continued On 14

PAR For Progress: Swinging To End Homelessness

Dust off your clubs and golf shoes! Join New Ground and help struggling Veterans and families Break the Cycle of Homelessness by supporting their 28th Annual Golf Tournament & Dinner. Experience the exquisite Devereaux Emmet designed golf course at Cherry Valley Club in Garden City on Monday, May 20th while making a lasting impact on local Long Island Veterans and families. Help give a hand up to hard-working households striving for a brighter future!

This year, New Ground honors Long Island local, Michael Farrell. He boasts over three decades of dedicated service with LDI Connect where he spearheads innovative office technology solutions nationwide. At the heart of LDI Connect’s corporate mission lies a commitment to nurturing strong relationships and actively supporting local communities. Michael exemplifies this mission

SPONSOR THE HOMELESS

through his community involvement, support of New Ground Veterans and families as well as many others in need.

“Michael Farrell has been a long-time supporter and genuinely cares about those in need around him. He is always one of the first to step up and ask how he can help. But he often keeps his generosity under wraps, downplaying the positive impact he has on our community,” said Shannon Boyle, Executive Director of New Ground. “For all of these reasons we are excited to celebrate his good works and successes at our upcoming golf tournament.”

The golf outing is CoChaired by Diane Caputi, West Islip resident as well as Steve DiMare, Rockville Centre resident and Owner of Unified Windows. Event features include prizes for all tournament winners, cigar station on the course, the brunch Bloody Mary station, 50/50 Raffle on the Putting Green Challenge, Par 3 Hole-in-

One prizes, Beat the Pro and more!

ABOUT

NEW GROUND:

Founded in 1991, New Ground Inc. is a 501c3 organization working with homeless Long Island Veterans and families to successfully break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Great emphasis is placed on parents returning to school to obtain a higher degree or certification, locating better paying employment and careers that can sustain the family, learning how to best manage their income and expenses and pay down debts to improve their credit score, and working with all children in the household to become academically successful and on track to graduate to higher education programs so they too can have a brighter future. For more information, please visit www.newground.org.

QUESTIONS?

Contact Diane Serenita at (516) 564-4764 or events@newground.org.

WAYS TO PARTICIPATE

JOIN US FOR DINNER

Twin County Chorus Concert

See the Twin County Chorus Chapter of Sweet Adelines International in concert at Farmingdale UMC, 407 Main Street, on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at 2:00PM (doors open 1:30PM). There will also be a Silent Auction and complimentary coffee and cake; admission is $20, seniors and students $15. Call church office for tickets 516 249-342

Bird Walk At

West End Jones Beach

Join the South Shore Audubon Society for a bird walk in the west end of Jones Beach State Park on Sunday, May 19, at 9:00 a.m. The group will meet at the Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area. The entrance for the Coast Guard Station and West End Boat Basin is on Bay Drive going west. Bring binoculars. Walk leaders and other birders and nature enthusiasts will be happy to share their knowledge and experience with you.

To register, text your name and contact information to 516 467-9498. No walk if it rains. Text regarding questionable conditions.

TAKE A TOURNAMENT BOOKLET AD

Armed Forces Appreciation Day Celebration

Continued From 13

our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country. The Town’s celebration includes a patriotic musical salute to our hometown heroes, including a special performance by the “American Bombshells,” and a free barbeque.

To accommodate as many hometown heroes as possible, veterans and active military personnel

May 17th

are invited to bring one guest. There is no charge to attend and a rain date is scheduled for Friday, May 24th. To RSVP, please call the Town of Oyster Bay at (516) 797-4121.

Tell Us About It!

Let us know about your honors, awards, promotions and other announcements. They are always welcome. Photos can be emailed as well. Send them to editorial@ longislandmediagroup.com.

Gain exposure for your company while knowing you are helping Veterans and families in need.

Enjoy cocktails, dinner, raffles, auction prizes, and more with us in person on Monday, May 20th.

Share a congratulatory message or simply spread the word about your business!

Farmingdale

Bethpage 234 Broadway, Bethpage (516) 931-1454 315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale (516) 249-0336

ArthurFWhite.com

“A Tradition of Caring Since 1923”

Family Owned & Operated

Oldest established business in Farmingdale and Bethpage. Proud members of both Farmingdale & Bethpage Chambers of Commerce and Historical Societies, Farmingdale Rotary Club, St. Kilian Women’s Guild, Farmingdale Junior League and the Knights of Columbus.

Owner/Operator - Nancy J. White

Manager - William D. Parsons

Funeral Directors - Stephen J. Mahoney, Kevin R. DeFriest & Jayme R. Elia