June 26, 2024 Bethpage

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Happy Summer! The Long Island beaches and local pools are open and our Bethpage Board hopes that everyone is enjoying the start of summer vacation time. We are busy making arrangements for the annual Summer Music series “Music On Broadway” for July 13th and August 17th with support from the Town of Oyster Bay and hope to see a big turnout from the community!

We are also busy making plans for a membership drive by highlighting the benefits of working together as local businesses to not only boost networking among our members and nonmembers but also for getting things done in the hamlet. Our annual beautification efforts have been an ongoing collaboration of various local groups and residents alongside our chamber members which we are very grateful for since it helps make the work go so much smoother.

We hope the community of Bethpage enjoys our projects around town and knows that our board is doing their best everyday to work to make improvements and keep Bethpage Strong!

Oyster Bay Town

Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that the Town is offering a new 10-week Yoga program at Philip B. Healey Beach at Florence Avenue in Massapequa. Classes are offered Wednesdays throughout the summer.

North Shore Classes

Sunrise Yoga

6 AM - 7 AM

Begins Wednesday, July 17th

Beekman Beach, West End Avenue, Oyster Bay

Sunset Yoga

7 PM - 8 PM

Begins Thursday, July 18th

Beekman Beach, West End Avenue, Oyster Bay

South Shore Classes

Sunrise Yoga

6 AM - 7 AM

Begins Monday, July 8th

Philip B. Healey Beach at Florence Avenue, Massapequa

Sunrise Yoga

6 AM - 7 AM

Begins Wednesday,

New Beach Yoga Classes At Sunrise & Sunset

July 10th

Philip B. Healey Beach at Florence Avenue, Massapequa

Sunset Yoga

7 PM - 8 PM

Begins Wednesday, July 10th

Philip B. Healey Beach at Florence Avenue, Massapequa

“The Town is proud to offer residents a variety of programs and services including these new yoga classes which offer great benefits to the mind, body and soul, behind a beautiful beach setting,” said Councilwoman Walsh. “Yoga builds strength, increases general flexibility and is considered a great stress reliever. Sign up today and use this opportunity to also meet new friends that can last a lifetime!”

Registration is now open and available at www.oysterbaytown.com/ portal. Residents can also sign up on the Town’s new

Parks & Recreation App, available by searching ‘Town of Oyster Bay Parks and Recreation’ in the Apple or Google Play Store. Registration is $60 for Town residents and $70 for nonresidents. Please note that the schedule may be subject to change and residents are encouraged to inquire about special holiday scheduling. If a session is cancelled due to inclement weather, a make-up session will be attempted. Mats will not be provided, so participants must bring their own Yoga mat. Participants should check with a physician before partaking in any physical fitness program. For more information and for registration availability, contact the Town of Oyster Bay Department of Parks at (516) 797-7945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny. gov.

Katherine Miraval Ins Agcy Inc

Kathy

M Miraval, Agent

326 Broadway

Bethpage, NY 11714

Bus: 516-433-2929

Tips To Save When Shopping For Your July Fourth Barbecue

Barbecues are part and parcel of July Fourth celebrations. Such gettogethers might be even more notable in 2024, when Independence Day falls on a Thursday. That means many people will likely be taking off on Friday, July 5, which adds another day to celebrate with friends and family around the grill this year.

Opportunities to entertain will abound this July, and that can take a toll on hosts’ pocketbooks. As the holiday approaches, individuals planning to host a July 4 barbecue can heed these tips to save on food and supplies at the grocery store.

• Ask guests to bring a side and/or beverages. Hot dogs and hamburgers may garner the bulk of the culinary attention at a July 4 barbecue, but side dishes are necessary as well. When inviting guests, ask each to bring a side dish or dessert.

Potato salad, mixed greens, pasta salad, chickpea salad,

and other cold fare go well with traditional barbecue favorites, and asking guests to bring these along can save hosts substantial amounts of money. If guests can’t bring food, ask them to bring beverages like soft drinks, iced tea, beer, or wine.

• Shop ahead. Hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken breasts, and other summer grilling favorites can be frozen and thawed out come the day of the barbecue. Shopping ahead for such items, as well as beverages, can help hosts spread out the cost of hosting, which can make it easier to manage the cost of throwing a party, particularly if the guest list figures to be sizable.

• Consider less expensive cuts of meat. If steak is on the menu at your Independence Day barbecue, consider purchasing less expensive cuts of meat. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue

Association notes that chuck cuts like flat-iron steaks and petite filets are flavorful cuts that won’t cost nearly as much as ribeyes and New York strip steaks. Hosts also can save on burgers by purchasing ground beef and creating

their own patties as opposed to purchasing pre-made hamburgers from their grocer’s meat department. The HPBA notes that chicken thighs, legs or quarters also tend to be less expensive than chicken breasts.

• Grill up healthy fare. Vegetables are less expensive than meat and poultry, and there’s many ways to prepare veggies over an open flame. Grilled vegetable skewers are flavorful and popular, and guests might appreciate

some nutritious fare to counter all the less healthy items they’re accustomed to eating at July 4 barbecues.

There’s no shortage of ways to save money when celebrating July 4 in the backyard.

Summer ‘Movies By Moonlight’ In Town Of Oyster Bay

Parks

Character Meet-And-Greets, Inflatables, And Games Offered Prior To Screenings

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and members of the Town Board announce that free ‘Movies by Moonlight’ will be offered in local parks on Thursday evenings this summer, beginning July 11th and concluding on August 8th. Residents are welcome to bring blankets and chairs when attending these family-friendly movies.

“Residents and families looking for a fun night need look no further than their backyards this summer as the Town is ready with a summer to remember,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We’re thrilled to once again show

family-friendly films at our parks, along with character meet and greets, inflatables, games, and more.”

Seating and pre-movie activities will begin at 6:00 p.m. including character meet and greets at select movies, inflatables and games. All movies begin at sundown and are subject to change. They will be held weather permitting. For additional information, please call (516) 797-7925 or visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown. com.

Programming is made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Steel Equities, Gold Coast Studios, Extreme Auto Body, Action Auto Wreckers, Complete

Residents Invited To Submit Photos For Town Publications

Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand invites residents to submit photos taken in the Town of Oyster Bay to be considered for future use in Town publications.

“We accept photos year-round submitted by our residents which depict people, places, community events and scenery throughout our Town,” said Councilman Hand. “We accept photos for the calendar, as well as other Town publications, including our website, social media pages and brochures.”

Councilman Hand noted that photos should be taken within the confines of the Town of Oyster Bay. Digital submissions are preferred, but high-quality photos may also be submitted. Emailed photos should be sent to photos@oysterbayny.gov. Printed photos can be submitted to the Town’s Public Information Office,

54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay NY 11771. Residents should make sure their name, address, phone number and brief description of the photo are included with their submission. The photographer is responsible for the correct spelling of the names and subjects in the photos, as well as notifying subjects they may appear in a Town publication.

Basement Systems, Webster Bank, Northwell Health’s Plainview & Syosset Hospitals, The Gucciardo Law Firm, Long

Island Speech, Soccer Stars, Zorn’s of Bethpage, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Royal Events Princess Parties, News12 Long Island, KJOY

and Friends of the Community Service Department.

Bethpage High School Holds Early Graduation Ceremony

For Two Students Headed To Military Academies

Bethpage High School is thrilled to announce the first two graduates of the Class of 2024 – Joy Kim and Devyn Hailey Sparke.

Both students graduated yesterday morning in a special ceremony, a week ahead of their classmates, to accommodate their exciting next steps: Kim will be attending the United States Air Force Academy, and Sparke is headed to the United States Naval Academy. Both students will begin their service immediately, preventing them from attending their class’s regular graduation ceremony.

The celebration featured inspiring speeches from senior class President Daniela Cross, Student Council President Ellie Park, Valedictorian Zoe Chinda, Salutatorian Ryan O’Connell, Principal Mr. Nicholas Jantz, and Superintendent of Schools

Mr. David Schneider. The national anthem was powerfully performed on electric guitar by Matthew Schneider.

In her valedictory address, Chinda encouraged the graduates with these words: “There will be obstacles in the future, no doubt. Areas that demand more of you than anything else ever has – but with the lessons of perseverance and simple hard work that your time at Bethpage has instilled in you, these obstacles will become opportunities to grow. I hope that your futures are filled with honor, courage, and unwavering determination.”

The ceremony concluded with the graduates joyfully tossing their caps into the air, followed by taking celebratory selfies on stage with Principal Jantz, Superintendent Schneider, and the entire audience.

The first two graduates of Bethpage High School Class of 2024, Joy Kim and Devyn Hailey Sparke, hold their diplomas following

special graduation ceremony. Photo courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

Grilled Seafood To Excite Backyard BBQ Guests

Grilling is a passion shared by millions of people across the globe. For some, there’s simply no better way to prepare meals in summertime than to do so over an open flame.

Recent years have seen many people expand their culinary horizons beyond traditional grilling fare like hamburgers and hot dogs. Indeed, there’s no shortage of options for grilling afficionados looking to expand their repertoire. Individuals who love seafood can try this recipe for “Grilled Diver Scallops and Fall Vegetable Shish Kebabs with Hazelnut Brown Butter” courtesy of John Holl’s “The American Craft Beer Cookbook” (Storey).

Grilled Diver Scallops

And Fall Vegetable Shish Kebabs With Hazelnut Brown Butter

Makes 4 servings

12 fresh large diver scallops

4 fennel bulbs, trimmed, cored, and diced into 11⁄2-inch cubes

4 large parsnips, peeled and diced into 11⁄2-inch cubes

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced into 1 1⁄2-inch cubes

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 12-ounce can Oskar Blues Mama’s Little Yella Pils, or similar beer

8 skewers

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

1 tablespoon finely chopped toasted hazelnuts

Directions:

1. Remove the scallops from the refrigerator to come up to room temperature. Prepare a medium fire in a gas or charcoal grill. If using charcoal, arrange the coals in a thin layer to evenly control the heat.

2. Combine the fennel, parsnips, and butternut squash in a large bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Transfer the vegetables to a cast-iron skillet (or another grill-safe pan), season with salt and pepper, and place the pan on the grill. Cook, with the lid closed, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are a light golden brown, about 25 minutes.

3. Remove the skillet from the grill and deglaze with 1⁄4 cup of the beer. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and let cool for 5 minutes. Reserve any drippings in the skillet for later.

4. Using two skewers for each shish kebab, alternately thread the scallops, fennel, parsnips, and butternut squash onto the skewers. Using two skewers for each kebab will prevent the ingredients from spinning on the grill.

5. Season the kebabs with salt and pepper and lightly coat with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Grill the kebabs, turning once, until you’ve reached the desired level of doneness for the scallops, about 5 minutes per side for medium. Set aside and tent with foil while making the sauce.

6. Return the skillet to the grill; add the butter, hazelnuts, and remaining 1 1⁄4 cups beer to the vegetable drippings. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and lightly browned.

7. Transfer the kebabs to a serving plate, pour the brown butter sauce over the scallops, and serve immediately.

A Few Beers to Try with This Recipe:

• Lagunitas Pils

• Oskar Blues Mama’s Little Yella Pils

• Samuel Adams Noble Pils

• Saranac Bohemian Pilsner

• Summit Pilsener

George Gershwin’s song “Summertime,” from “Porgy and Bess,” offers: Summertime and the livin’ is easy Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high Summer can be a magical season full of fresh air, warm days and nights, blooming flowers, and plenty of opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors. There are so many ways to fill summer days, and people are urged to maximize time spent outdoors during this time of year. Since the sun’s rays can be particularly harmful between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., protective clothing and sunscreen is recommended during this time; otherwise, people can engage in outdoor activities during times when the sun is less potent. Those seeking some summertime recreation

Outdoor Activities Ideal For Summertime

inspiration can consider these activities.

• Family bike ride: Explore trails or bike paths in the area in advance, and then prepare bikes for an excursion. Bicycle riding is a great cardiovascular activity that people of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy. Try flat paths for beginners, and then build up the length and intensity of rides as experience is gained.

• Day at the beach: Some attest there is no more perfect place than the beach on a summer day. The waves lapping the sand, the birds calling in the air, and the sounds of children’s laughter and sunbathers’ chatter all combine to create a relaxing seaside symphony.

According to WebMD, the negative ions given off by the ocean can improve mood and add to the calming effect the beach provides.

• Backyard obstacle course: Construct an obstacle course in the backyard that everyone can try. It can include having to jump through tires; climb a jungle gym; run through a sprinkler; and crawl under a low-hung clothesline. Family members can compete to see who can finish the course in the least amount of time.

• Walk a boardwalk: Those lucky to live near a coast can spend an afternoon or evening strolling the boardwalk, enjoying the various fare and fun activities offered.

Many boardwalks have games of chance and small rides for kids. Adults may enjoy the restaurants, bars and shops. Of course, no trip to a boardwalk is complete without coming home with some saltwater taffy.

• Hike: In a survey of Americans 18 and older conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, nearly 50 percent said going for a walk or hike was their favorite outdoor summer activity. Hiking requires very little to get started and can produce numerous opportunities to witness nature and get some exercise.

There’s no limit to the ways people can enjoy the great outdoors when the weather warms up.

Did You Know?

July 4th is a day when Americans celebrate their independence, but it's also a day to commemorate two men who played vital roles in procuring that independence. Both John Adams, the second President of the United States, and his successor Thomas Jefferson passed away on July 4, 1826. The two men had an interesting relationship that became increasingly complex as the nation they helped to found developed. According to History.com, Adams and Jefferson were confidantes in the 1780s, but as time wore on, each man developed a different view of what the United States government should be, creating a rift in their relationship that was only widened by the 1800 presidential election. The men ran against each other in that election, which is still considered one of the more contentious elections in American history. Jefferson ultimately claimed victory, a result so unnerving to Adams that he left Washington, D.C. prior to Jefferson's inauguration. The two men would ultimately reconcile, exchanging more than 150 letters before dying within hours of one another on Independence Day in 1826.

All Bethpage 5th Grade Students Get Lessons On Water Treatment And Delivery From Bethpage Water District

As part of its continuing educational program to educate the community about water quality, treatment and delivery, the Bethpage Water District hosted over 200 students from the Charles Campagne Elementary School, Kramer Lane Elementary School and the Central Boulevard School. During the tours which took place June 4, 5 and 6, 11 different classes experienced a handson, behind-the-scenes look at the District’s water treatment facility, learning about the water treatment cycle, water conservation, where their drinking water comes from as well as a sampling of the fresh, clean, high-quality drinking water that is produced at the Plant 6 location.

“This is more than just

a tour for the students,” said Lorraine Marcis, Science Enrichment Director, Bethpage School District. “This is an integral part of our science curriculum.

During these visits, students gain a deeper understanding of the environmental processes of how the clean water they consume every day is delivered to their homes and schools.”

Michael Boufis, Bethpage Water District Superintendent, provided the students with his first-hand knowledge and expertise during each class visit and brought the students up-close within the inner-workings of the $17 million, state-of-theart facility. The District has designed, built and continuously maintains the most advanced and complex drinking water treatment

systems in the nation. The District is considered a leader in New York State in terms of delivering an uninterrupted supply of high-quality drinking water to their community.

“It is critical for the younger generations to understand the

importance of providing clean drinking water. During these visits and tours, we educate them about where their drinking water comes from and share with the students an appreciate of the complexities of the water treatment process,”

said Bethpage Water District Commissioner Teri Catapano Black.

“Providing high-quality, clean drinking water has been our mission over the last 100 years. Utilized and implementing the latest and most advanced water technology, we will

continue this mission for another 100 years.”

During the tour, students saw and were taught how water treatment methods work, such as the well pump, air stripper, Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC). Students also got to witness the equipment and technology up-close, giving them a better understanding of how the District performs, 24-7365, to keep a plentiful amount of water flowing for the community. For more information about The Bethpage Water District and to schedule educational tours, please visit their website, www. bethpagewater.com.

courtesy of David Conn and The Bethpage Water District

Photo

Congratulations To Bethpage High School Graduating Class Of 2024!

Robert Ackerly

Aneeq Ahmed

Roshni Akram

Kevin Alarcon Angulo

Benjamin Alava

Keira Andre

Anthony Arrabito

Mahum Assad

Kellyann Auer

Jaideep Babra

Moheed Baki

Abigail Bartow

Krish Batra

Matteo Bellise

Elayna Bestreich

Adrienne Blonder

Vincent Bove

Taylor Bromberg

Matthew Burgin

Kevin Bury

Marisa Cacciuttolo

Keystrabina Cadet

Kennedy Calvar

Andrew Campbell

Grace Carney

Toni Cassese

Andrés Castellanos Rojas

Brandon Ceraulo

Kayla Cha

Zoe Chinda

Rachel Cohen

Ziggy Cohen

Antonio Colace

Mario Colace

Saige Colleluori

Leah Coscino

Valerie Cotto

Daniela Cross

Alexander Cutrone

Alexandra D’Agostino

Chiara D’Ambrosio

Matthew Dabrowski

Juliana Dacosta

Sharoon Dawood

Aidan Devine

Jayden Diaz

Katherine DiMaggio

Maria Laina DiMartino

Niki Dong

Yulo Dorji

Devan Dracker

Sean Dunbar

Angelina Elardo

Ian Enright

Evangelia Evangelou

Christian Fasulo

Caitlyn Filardi

Johnny Flores

Angelina Formato

Dennis Freiberg

Kyle Gallego

Jairo Garcia

Jake Geller

Eugenia Gioulis

Violetta Gioulis

Grace Greco

Jake Green eld

Nikola Grgin

Julianna Guarino

Ilana Guidotti

Katerina Haloulakos

Theresa Hambrock

Frank Hance

Jenna Hance

Eddy Hazarian

Sophia Heinz

Arianna Hendrick

Dylan Himberger

Alexandra Hollwedel

Irene Horianopoulos

Bailey Horowitz

Arnusha Hossain

Hailey Hothan

Sean Hothan

Absar Hussain

Mashaal Ilyas

Arham Irfan

Alexander Jacob

Sasha Jacob

Brett Jassey

Maya Javed

Alexander Juarez

Andrew Jung

Lucas Kamilar

Elias Kapothanasi

Gianna Katigbak

Alyssa Kaur

Arshpreet Kaur

Mahikpreet Kaur

Muhammed Kazmi

Jake Kelly

Saif-Ebrahim Khalfan

Daniyal Khambati

Joy Kim

Brandon Klein

John Klein

Derya Kocabiyik

Sera Kocabiyik

Emily Kossman

Manvi Kotturi

Tanvi Kotturi

Peter Koulouris

Kathleen Krummenacker

Sandip Kumal

Jake Latorre

Michael Lazaridis

Stavros Likourentzos

Terry Lin

Alejandro Lizarazo

Marissa LoBosco

Michael LoBosco

Vito Lonardo

Joseph Luparello

Mia Luparello

So a Maciel-Seidman

Madison Mandra

Sophia Mangano

Ali Manzar

Isabella Marinuzzi

Stavros Markopoulos

Jordan Martinez

Brian Masi

Alexandra Matsis

Dierdre McAndrews

Jake McAuliffe

Tiffany McCann

Nicholas McGlynn

Mehvika

Vincenzo Melisi

Emily Melman

Elizabeth Meneses

Logan Menjivar

Angelina Menz

Nicole Mercer

James Mertz

Michaelarcangelo Minelli

Nicholas Morgan

Joseph Morrone

Lianna Moscato

Narinderpal Multani

Dominick Munoz

So ya Mushibayeva

Lilly Nahoney

Fabiha Nashrah

Colleen Nawrocki

Mudassar Nisar

Marissa Nuzzi

Ryan O’Connell

Gavin O’Connor

Samantha Ocasio

Jessica Olanick

Irvin Orellana-Avalos

Isabella Pace

Antonios Pakakis

Christian Palma

Evanthia Panagos

Gregory Pancoast

Ethan Parizman

Ellie Park

Halle Peace

John Pelcher

Richard Perez Gomez

Yosselin Perez Vicente

Logan Petruskie

Juandiego Pinto Ospina

Parisa Pitiranggon

Alexander Popov

Ryszard Porcelli

Samantha Puelles

Angelica Pujols

Anthony Quercia

Christopher Quercia

Ankur Raghavan

Omar Rahman

Hamza Raja

Meagan Ramesberger

Wanya Rasul

Joseph Resta

Ciara Richmond

Julianna Robinson

Jared Rojas

Melanie Romero

Gianna Rossini

Robert Rothenberger

Eleftheria Rubin

Ella Russo

Riya Saha

Aidan Saheli

Ryan Saheli

John Salemi

Sahibdeep Sawhney

Nico Schappert

Jason Schmieder

Ashley Schnabel

Matthew Schneider

Erika Schulz

Luigi Scolieri

Grace Severin

Fawaz Shabir

Mashhood Shah

Miraj Shah

Sakina Shakir

Nasib Shariya

Alisha Siddiqui

Stephen Sigalas

Rubianne Simon

Ameshi Singh

Amritpal Singh

Arsh Singh

Joshita Singh

Gianna Smith

Robert Smith

Mia Soluk

Samantha Spaleta

Devyn Sparke

Neil Sudhir

Ava Thomaidis

Eissah Tokhi

Jefry Trejo Pacheco Vasquez

Vaida Trepsas

Dimitri Tsakiris

Antonio Turcio Enamorado

Fatema Vasi

Attis Vaz

Justin Verdi

Alexa Vetter

Riley Walsh

Sarah Watson

Jordon Weber

Michael Weremecki

Tyler Wodicka

Aiden Wolf

Bryce M. Wylie

Anastasia Xhumba

Christian Yeom

Minno Yip

Riki Yoshida

Ella You

Erick You

Kaeren Zabala

Katarina Zgombic

Austin Zhong

Students From Bethpage High School Inducted Into The Business And Marketing Honor

To certify their membership, students recited the following promise: “I pledge to uphold the high purpose of the Business and Marketing Honor Society

I will maintain and encourage the high standards of scholarship,

Photo courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

Center Boulevard School in the Bethpage School District marked Flag Day with a moving and patriotic assembly held in front of the school, bringing together students, staff, and community members in a heartfelt celebration of our nation’s flag.

As attendees arrived, they

Center Boulevard School Celebrates Flag Day With A Moving Tribute To Veterans

were greeted by the uplifting sounds of the school band, which played a selection of patriotic songs, ranging from “My Country Tis of Thee” to the soulful “Kum ba yah.”

The assembly commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment that unified everyone in attendance

in a collective display of respect for the flag and what it represents. This was followed by an informative reading about the origins of Flag Day.

A particularly poignant part of the assembly was the recognition of veterans in attendance, all of whom were relatives of CBS

of Center Boulevard

Day

students. Each veteran was introduced by their family member, creating a personal and touching tribute. The veterans were then thanked for their service, eliciting heartfelt applause and appreciation from the crowd. This segment of the program underscored the deep connections between

the school community and those who have served our country, adding a layer of personal meaning to the day’s celebrations.

Following the honoring of the veterans, the entire student body came together to sing “Proud to be an American” by Lee Greenwood. The collective

voices of the students resonated with pride and patriotism.

The Flag Day celebration at Center Boulevard School was a beautiful and stirring event, reflecting the school’s commitment to honoring the flag and the values it represents.

Students

School celebrate Flag

at a patriotic assembly. Photos courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

Veterans, who are family members of CBS students, were honored for their service.

3

ENTRÉE:

Select Bethpage High School seniors were recognized for their academic strides, musical talent, athletic skills, school involvement, volunteer efforts and overall good character during their annual Senior Awards ceremony that was held on May 23. Congratulations to all who achieved these acknowledgments, which result from continued

Bethpage High School Hosts Senior Awards

During the months between graduating high school and beginning college, or between getting a university degree and entering the workforce, graduates may want to explore the personal growth that comes from volunteerism.

Volunteering provides various benefits. Some of these rewards include networking with an entirely different group of people. Volunteering also can help a person realize greater happiness by doing selfless acts for others, while they also can help one to realize a new passion. In the future, volunteering with an organization also may help with a student’s job search.

There are many arenas where young people can focus their volunteer efforts. Here are some ideas.

Volunteer Opportunities For Recent Grads

• Public service sectors: AmeriCorp and Peace Corps have scores of opportunities for volunteers. AmeriCorp focuses on domestic issues, while the PeaceCorp is a branch of the U.S. government that engages volunteers in international service work. Community involvement, health care, agriculture, homelessness, and combatting hunger are top priorities for these organizations.

• English as a second language: Volunteers can spend time abroad teaching English to students. Others may want to volunteer domestically by helping non-English-speaking individuals improve their language skills.

• Animal shelter: Animal shelters rely on volunteers to help with their operations. They can be a good fit for anyone with a passion for animals and animal rights activism.

• Community government:

A person may choose to sit on the board of a school, a neighborhood housing association, or even explore volunteerism with a township municipal office. This will provide valuable hands-on experience and

“Shootout For Soldiers” Charitable Lacrosse Marathon To Support Vets

Event Benefits U.S. Troops, Honors Vietnam Veterans With Medals & Features A Parachute Landing

Oyster Bay Town

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board will host the 10th Annual “Shootout for Soldiers” 24-Hour Lacrosse Benefit Game at the Town of Oyster Bay’s John J. Burns Park, located on Merrick Road in Massapequa. This year’s event begins on Thursday, July 11th at 9:00am to 9:00pm, and continues on July 12th from 9:00am to 9:00pm. The event benefits veterans and active duty military personnel. The Long Island Air Force Association will conduct a special ceremony on July 12th at 11:00am to honor hometown Vietnam War Veterans and present them with medals that commemorate their service

to our nation. There will be a parachute landing on the field conducted by the “All Veterans Group,” which will deliver the official ball on Friday at 6pm. Supervisor Saladino stated, “Shootout for Soldiers is a wonderful event that provides local lacrosse players a chance to enjoy a sport they love in a unique way while also raising charitable funds to support the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Whether you enjoy lacrosse or are just looking for a fun-family event, I invite residents to be a part of the festivities.”

The charitable funds raised at Shootout for Soldiers will benefit the Team RWB, the Long Island

Air Force Association, Strongpoint Theinert Ranch, and The Warrior Ranch Foundation.

The event features 24 1-hour sessions. The score is cumulative, resulting in unique scores for a lacrosse game with totals reaching into the hundreds.

Participants include children, adults, seniors, youth, high school, college players and veterans. Teams that accommodate players with special needs are also scheduled to play.

For more information, please visit http:// shootoutforsoliders. com or contact Harry Jacobs at longisland@ shootoutforsoldiers.com or at (516) 315-3002.

may help one lend a voice to issues that affect his or her living situation.

• Religious groups: Churches, synagogues and mosques may have volunteer opportunities focused on community outreach or programs affiliated with local

nonprofits.

• Conservation groups: Volunteers can work on conservation projects across the country. From wildlife management to trail restoration to invasive species eradication, there are a wide variety

of conservationbased volunteering opportunities.

• Tutoring: Graduates can volunteer to tutor students in local schools or overseas. Volunteerism can fill gap years or add to résumés for recent graduates.

Healthier Salad Makes Barbecues Better

Greek Yogurt Potato Salad

Serves 6

2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)

1/2 onion

6 eggs

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

4 tablespoons sour cream

1 tablespoon vinegar

2 tablespoons yellow mustard

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon celery seed

1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed or 1 teaspoon fresh

1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped

Paprika, for garnish (optional)

Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Warm weather beckons people outdoors. Al fresco dining offers a chance to spend even more time outdoors, and many people will attest that no outdoor gathering is complete without the requisite grilled fare and complementary sides that are staples of spring and summer dining. Potato salad is one such food that turns up regularly this time of year in many shapes and forms. Traditional potato salad is delicious, but it may not be so great for health-conscious individuals, as it’s typically swimming in mayonnaise. A lighter version featuring Greek yogurt in the dressing is ideal for those who want to eat healthy. Greek yogurt also adds guthealthy live active cultures to the recipe, which may provide gastrointestinal benefits. Enjoy this recipe for “Greek Yogurt Potato Salad” courtesy of The Diabetes Council and Pitchfork Foodie Farms.

Directions:

1. Peel and dice potatoes and onions. Put them and a teaspoon of salt in a pressure cooker and cover with an inch of water. Close valve. Set pressure cooker to high pressure. Set timer for 5 minutes, cook and quick release when it’s done. Drain potatoes. Cool until just warm. (If you don’t have a pressure cooker, boil potatoes in a pot of water on the stove until tender.)

2. Set eggs on a rack in the pressure cooker. Add 1/2 inch of water. Close valve, set to high pressure for 5 minutes. Cook for 5 minutes, quick release, and leave lid closed for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, take lid off. Drain eggs and cover with ice water to stop the cooking process. Let sit in ice water bath for about 5 minutes, then peel eggs. (If you don’t have a pressure cooker, hard-boil eggs according to your favorite recipe.)

3. Add Greek yogurt, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, celery seed, and dill weed to a large mixing bowl. Stir until smooth. You can taste test to see if you need to add ingredients.

4. Add cooled, diced potatoes, pickles and hard-boiled eggs. Gently stir until potatoes are coated with dressing. Adjust seasonings to taste. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Notes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best in potato salad. White distilled vinegar is classic in potato salad, but you also can use cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice.

Bethpage High School proudly hosted its 14th annual Research Symposium on June 5. This notable event, open to students and families from the Bethpage Union Free School District, showcased remarkable student achievements in research, robotics, and engineering. The symposium welcomed enthusiastic junior scientists from Bethpage

Annual Research Symposium

UFSD’s elementary schools. The event commenced in the Bethpage High School auditorium, where students Ankur Raghavan, Zoe Chinda, and Partap Sidhu presented their impressive research projects, each followed by an engaging question-andanswer session with the audience. Following these presentations, attendees moved to the cafeteria to

explore a diverse array of projects from students in Research 1-3 classes.

Across the hall, the STEM lab offered handson activities for elementary school students. A particular highlight was the resident robot, which captivated the younger students with a series of entertaining tricks, orchestrated by the high school robotics students.

from

Researchers

the senior class of Bethpage High School. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Bethpage high school robotics students demonstrate the movements of their resident STEM lab robot. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Freshman Partap Sidhu with the robot arm he created for efficient garbage recycling. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Bethpage

Farmingdale

234 Broadway, Bethpage

234 Broadway, Bethpage (516) 931-1454

Farmingdale

ArthurFWhite.com

315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale (516) 931-1454

315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale (516) 249-0336

ArthurFWhite.com (516) 249-0336

“A Tradition of Caring Since 1923”

“A Tradition of Caring Since 1923”

Family Owned & Operated

Family Owned and Operated

Oldest established business in Farmingdale and Bethpage.

Oldest established businesses 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.

Proud members of both Farmingdale & Bethpage Chambers of Commerce and Historical Societies, Farmingdale Rotary Club,

Owner/Operator - Nancy J. White

Manager - William D. Parsons

Funeral Directors - Stephen J. Mahoney, William J. Dowling & Jayme R. Elia

St. Kilian Women’s Guild, Farmingdale Junior League and the Knights of Columbus.

Tri-M Music Honor Society Students Present End-Of-The-Year Recital

On Thursday, June 6, members of Bethpage High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society presented an evening of musical numbers in their end-ofthe-year recital.

The program was as follows:

• Ava Mirabelli, Giulia Zingone, Samantha Harold – “I Didn’t Plan It” from Waitress

• Madison Guevara, Jennifer Lee – “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, Elvis Presley

• Joanna Scharen, Ashdon Chadwick – “The Thrill of First Love” from March of the Falsettos

• Katy Sfeir, Sarah Oh, Madison Guevara, Ava Morgan – “Quartet K. 156 Menuet”, Mozart

• Matthew Schneider,

Samantha Ocasio, Ryan O’Connell – “Quilt of Ice”, Matthew Schneider

• Ben Maciel-Seidman, Payton Morgan – “The Music Box”

• Araya Kaur, Anjali Ponugupati – “Bella Ciao”, Fabio Eduardo de Oliveiro

• Matthew Schneider –“Fives”, Guthrie Govan

• Kaitlyn Kistoo, Sasha Jacob, Laasya Marada –“Two Part Invention”, JS Bach

• Elizabeth Thomas, Grace Cho – “Creep” by Radiohead

• Jackson Boyle –“Pathetique”, Beethoven

• Joshita Singh, Elizabeth Thomas – Theme from “Up”

• Matthew and Amanda Schneider – “Man or

Muppet” from The Muppet Movie

• Nicholas and Payton Morgan – “Menuet”, Sylvius

• Elizabeth Hoffner, Danielle Betwinek, Elizabeth Thomas, Amanda Schneider, Allyson Yalbuzdag –“Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”, Tchaikovsky

• Members of the BHS Jazz Ensemble – “Careless Whisper”, Wham

The Tri-M Music Honor Society is a program of the National Association for Music Education, which focuses on creating future leaders in music education and music advocacy. Sasha Jacob served as the emcee. Congratulations to all the musicians for a fantastic performance!

Members of Bethpage High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society perform

Senior class members of Bethpage High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Photos courtesy of Bethpage UFSD

Offer A Sweet Ending To July 4th Celebrations

July 4th celebrations are much anticipated each year. Whether they include an intimate barbecue with a close-knit group of friends or a massive block party with everyone from the neighborhood, there’s a strong chance that food will be part of the party.

As various menu items will hit the grill, hosts and hostesses may wonder which desserts to serve to make their events complete. While there is seemingly nothing more American than apple pie, cookies also can be sweet ways to help wrap up the festivities. Sugar cookies are a universal favorite, and in this recipe for “Fourth of July Cookie Cups” they’re shaped into cups filled with a buttercream frosting. Enjoy this star-spangled showcase, courtesy of “Live Well, Bake Cookies” (Rock Point) by Danielle Rye.

Fourth of July Cookie Cups

Makes 24

Nonstick cooking spray, for greasing the pan

1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon cornstarch

1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

3⁄4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Red, white and blue sprinkles, for topping

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar

1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream or milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

1. To make the cookie cups: preheat the oven to 350 F. Spray a 24-count mini muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar together for 1 to 2 minutes, or until well combined.

4. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. Mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

6. Evenly distribute the cookie dough among all 24 cups in the mini muffin pan, a little more than 1 tablespoon of cookie dough per cup. Press each ball of cookie dough into the cups and smooth it out.

7. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie cups are lightly browned and the tops are set.

8. Remove from the oven, and make an indentation in each cookie using the back of a measuring spoon. Allow to cool in the muffin pan, then carefully remove from the pan and set aside.

9. To make the vanilla buttercream frosting: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the butter for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, 1⁄2 cup at a time, mixing in each addition until well combined.

10. Add the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Pipe the frosting into the cooled cookie cups and top with the sprinkles.

12. Store the cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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