August 30, 2023 Bethpage

Bethpage’s Summer Elementary

Approximately 530 students in grades K-7 from the Bethpage Union Free School District participated in the district’s annual Summer Elementary Enrichment Program from July 10 to Aug. 3.

This year’s program was held at Charles Campagne Elementary School where students participated in different academic and enrichment courses based on their grade level. Each day was split into two

sessions so students could enroll in two different courses if they wished. Students tapped into their creative side and expressed themselves with courses such as Arts and Crafts, Art in Nature, Music

Enrichment

Program Has Another Successful Year

Fun, Musical Theater, Set Design and String and Bead Art. Students also explored in hands-on courses such as Science Discoveries, STEM and Scientific Wonders, and enhanced their language skills in

Italian is Fun and Spanish is Fun.

In addition, the Summer Elementary Enrichment Program featured a physical education course for all grade levels and kidOYO, a fun coding course

for students entering grades 4-7. To prepare for the incoming 20232024 school year, some students also participated in preparation skills classes to build content knowledge and academic skills.

MUSICAL THEATER COURSE - Bethpage students participated in the enrichment program’s Musical Theater course. This year’s show shined the spotlight on Disney songs and movies. Photos courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

kidOYO COURSE - Clockwise from bottom left: Rizwian Jamil, Antonio Radovic, Daniel Guo, Mateo Camacho and Justin Bonilla worked on their coding skills during the kidOYO course.

BETHPAGE’S SUMMER ELEMENTARY ENRICHMENT PROGRAMIncoming fourth grader Valentina Waqar designed a T-shirt using homemade puffy paint during Bethpage’s Summer Elementary Enrichment Program.

STRING AND BEAD ART COURSE - Incoming third and fourth graders enrolled in the String and Bead Art course worked on a sun project.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSE -Bethpage students enjoyed different sports during the Physical Education course.

the deal, home + auto = savings.

Considerations For Seniors Looking To Go Back To School

The picture of a traditional college student is one in his or her

late teens or early 20s. However, a deeper look may reveal that college

student demographics are more diverse than one might imagine. In fact,

senior citizens can rest assured that if they plan to return to the classroom, they’re likely to find students around their age. According to the senior citizen resource Elder Guru, just over 0.3 percent of university students are over 65. Even though that is a low number in the grand scheme of things, it is an indication that seniors have a presence on college campuses. And that number is expected to rise. Universities are increasing efforts to include seniors as important parts of their student bodies. Here are some things seniors considering going back to school may want to know. • Incentives are available. Many schools are looking to expand their elder student body populations by making it easier for them to go to school. That means seniors may be able to attend for little

to no cost through tuition waivers and discounts. Speak with an admissions officer about your options.

• Lay the foundation for a new career. A survey from the Rand Corporation found that 39 percent of workers age 65 and older who were currently employed had previously retired at some point. Going back to school may provide a foundation for new skills that can make it easier to advance in a second career. Heading back to classes also can help people stay competitive in their current job.

• Engage and socialize. Going back to school provides seniors with an opportunity to engage with their peers and younger students.

Returning to school may expose older adults to new experiences, technologies, and customs they may

otherwise never have enjoyed.

• Embrace the excitement of a new environment and its challenges. Heading back to college can be challenging, which is something seniors looking for mental stimulation may enjoy. Senior Finance Advisor reports that heading back to school and lifelong learning has been linked to better health, improved financial situations, and even a reduced risk of dementia.

• Staying informed. Going back to school can enable seniors to stay technologically informed and learn about movements and other factors that are helping to shape the modern world.

Seniors have many reasons to return to the college classroom, and such a pursuit can pay numerous dividends.

6-Month

James P Vafeas Financial Advisor

322 Main Street Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-454-0591

What Is Rosh Hashanah?

Rosh Hashanah is an important holiday on the Jewish calendar. According to the Jewish National Fund, Rosh Hashanah marks the Jewish New Year and is a celebration of the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve. Adherents to the Jewish faith wish each other a good, sweet year ahead on Rosh Hashanah, a day that is steeped in tradition. One such tradition is the sounding of the shofar, which the JNF notes are representative of the trumpet blast that sounded the coronation of kings. The sounding of the shofar also symbolizes a call to repentance. The shofar itself is a ram’s horn that calls to mind the story of the Blinding of Isaac, an event that occurred on Rosh Hashanah and involved a ram taking Isaac’s place as an offering to God. Of course, no celebration of Rosh Hashanah, which takes place over two days, is complete without a festive meal. Foods served during Rosh Hashanah celebrations tend to be sweet and are meant to symbolize hope for an enjoyable year ahead. In addition, the JNF says it is customary for Rosh Hashanah to eat foods with names that allude to blessing and prosperity. Rosh Hashanah begins September 15, 2023, at sundown and it concludes at nightfall on September 17, 2023.

What Is Yom Kippur?

Yom Kippur is an annual holiday in the Jewish faith. Considered the holiest day in Judaism, Yom Kippur is also known as the Day of Atonement. According to History. com, Yom Kippur marks the culmination of the 10 Days of Awe. Those 10 days represent a period of introspection and repentance. On Yom Kippur, faithful Jews are asked to make amends and seek forgiveness for sins committed during the previous 12 months. Yom Kippur has many traditions, including a roughly 25hour period of fasting and prayer. Jews believe that God judges all people’s fate for the coming year during the 10 Days of Awe, which begins with the Jewish New Year celebration of Rosh Hashanah. Due to the significance of Yom Kippur, Jews refrain from working on the holiday. That includes high-profile professional athletes. In fact, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Sandy Koufax, a practicing Jew, famously refused to pitch in Game One of the 1965 World Series because the game was scheduled to take place on Yom Kippur. Religious services on Yom Kippur bear such significance that some congregations seek additional space to accommodate all worshippers. While the 25-hour fast is a significant component of the holiday, some people are exempt from fasting. Women who have recently given birth, the sick, and the elderly are allowed to eat during Yom Kippur. Those who observe the fast do so because it is believed to cleanse the body and spirit. As significant as the fast is, food still plays an essential role in Yom Kippur observations. For instance, feasts on the eve of Yom Kippur tend to be plentiful, so people who will fast can gather strength for the holiday. In addition, once the fast has ended, another festive meal takes place. Yom Kippur begins sunset of Sunday, September 24, 2023. Ends nightfall of Monday, September 25, 2023.

Bethpage Educator Receives Nassau BOCES NASTECH NASTAR Award

Ashley Scotto, library media specialist for the Central Boulevard Elementary School in the Bethpage UFSD, was recently recognized by Nassau BOCES and the Nassau Association of School Technologists (NASTECH) as a pioneering educator who has contributed significantly to the advancement of technology in education. Ms. Scotto was honored at the fifth annual Nassau Association of School Technologists Award Recipient (NASTAR) awards ceremony, held at the Nassau BOCES Brookville Outdoor and Environmental Education Center.

Ashley Scotto seamlessly integrates the use of instructional technology in her library, with lessons that are creative,

dynamic and purposeful. As a media specialist, Ms. Scotto is the point person for tech support and troubleshooting, and also helped to plan and implement the district’s new Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards.

Ms. Scotto is a major supporter of the school’s Energy Bus initiative. She serves as the advisor to the We Belong Club, which tackles issues of diversity and inclusion among various cultures. She also coaches the Hackathon Team, which brings students together to problemsolve technical issues and develop new technological ideas.

“She is an active member of the Bethpage schools community and an invaluable support to

education,” said award nominator Andrew Choi. “She excels at providing support for her colleagues, and our students genuinely look forward to learning with her.”

The NASTAR awards were created by the Nassau BOCES NASTECH Service to honor educators for their innovation, leadership and support of technology initiatives in their school districts. Each recipient is selected by their district based on this criterion. This year, a total of 27 Nassau County educators were acknowledged for their achievements in a ceremony conducted by Nassau BOCES

NASTECH and Data Privacy and Security Service Supervisor Laura Pollak and Program Specialist Barbara Deal.

NASSAU BOCES NASTECH NASTAR AWARD - Ashley Scotto, (center) library media specialist for the Central Boulevard Elementary School in the Bethpage UFSD, was recently recognized by Nassau BOCES and the Nassau Association of School Technologists (NASTECH) as a pioneering educator who has contributed significantly to the advancement of technology in education

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and his colleagues on the Town Board recently honored Jennifer Biren, of Old Bethpage, for her exceptional charitable efforts as the Volunteer Event Chair of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Relay for Life, benefitting the American Cancer Society, as well as her remarkable community service to aid those in need.

“Along with her team, Jennifer helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society and has spearheaded several creative cancerrelated fundraising initiatives, all while demonstrating unwavering support for those who are fighting for their lives,” said Supervisor Saladino. “She is constantly looking for ways to volunteer her time to help those in need every single day to make a true difference.”

In addition to her work with Relay for Life, Jennifer also organized several fundraisers during the pandemic to aid our Frontline Heroes. She contacted local hospitals and arranged for meals and snacks to be delivered so that employees felt appreciated while they worked around the clock. She also devotes time to the Plainview-Old Bethpage School District and the PTA, volunteers at the Mid-Island Y JCC, and offers emergency babysitting to families in need.

Dig Into Fun Facts About Pizza

Craving a slice of pizza? You are likely not alone. According to a recent online survey by Caulipower, a maker of healthier pizza using cauliflower crusts, 98 percent of Americans eat pizza, and 33 million Americans have said they’d make it their last meal if they had a choice. Technomic’s 2020 Canadian Pizza Consumer Trend Report offered that 81 percent of consumers eat pizza at least once a month. Pizza certainly tops the lists of comfort foods people turn to when they want tasty meals or snacks. Let’s slice into a few more facts about pizza.

· Pizza commands plenty of dates on holiday events calendars. October is National Pizza Month, September 5 marks National Cheese Pizza Day, February 9 is National Pizza Day, April 5 is National Deep Dish Pizza Day, September 10 is National Pepperoni Pizza Day, and the third Friday in May is National Pizza Party Day. There are others as well, helping people to enjoy pizza many days during the year.

· Pizza hails from Italy. Antica Pizzeria is the very first known pizzeria in Italy. It opened in 1738.

· The pizza industry brings in roughly $30 billion a year.

· Cheese pizza is a favorite of many. However, pepperoni is the most popular topping in the United States and Canada.

· The busiest day for ordering pizza is Super Bowl Sunday. This fast food is easily enjoyed while watching the game.

· “Canadian pizza” contains sauce, mozzarella cheese, bacon, pepperoni, and mushrooms.

· According to the data company ScrapeHero, Hunts Brothers Pizza is the largest pizza chain in the United States, with 9,240 locations as of 2023.

· Boston Pizza, 241 Pizza and Freshslice Pizza are some popular Canadian pizza chains. Now that we’ve consumed some pizza facts, it’s time to consume the pizza itself. Enjoy this recipe for “Classic Cheese Pizza” courtesy of The Pioneer Woman and Leah Perez.

Directions:

Classic Cheese Pizza

Yields 6 to 8 servings

1 1⁄4 ounce packet active dry yeast

2 teaspoons granulated sugar

1 1⁄2 cup warm water (90 to 100 F)

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons olive oil, divided, plus more for brushing

2 1⁄4 teaspoons kosher salt

1⁄4 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup pizza sauce, divided

3 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup cubed fresh mozzarella cheese, divided

Fresh basil to serve

1. Sprinkle the yeast and sugar over the warm water in the bowl of a stand mixer. Whisk to combine and then let sit until bubbles have formed on the top, about 5 minutes. Add the flour, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and salt, and mix with the dough hook on low speed until the dough comes together about 2 minutes. Scrape the bottoms and sides of the bowl. Increase the speed to medium-low until everything is well incorporated and the dough is sticky, 2 to 3 minutes more.

2. Drizzle the top of the dough and down the sides of the bowl with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Use a rubber spatula to flip the dough to coat in the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise until doubled, about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

3. About 1 hour before you’re ready to make the pizza, place a pizza stone, steel, or an upside-down baking sheet on the upper third rack of the oven. Preheat the oven to 500 F.

4. On a lightly floured work surface, cut the dough in half and form into tight rounds. To form a nice round, flatten the dough onto the circle. Flip it over and gently pull the round against the counter to form a taut ball. Place the rounds on a lightly floured baking sheet with enough space for them to rise and expand, for about an hour.

5. Place a 14-inch piece of heavy-duty foil on top of an upside-down half-sheet pan. Lightly brush the foil with oil and dust with flour. While working with one round of dough, cover the other with plastic wrap.

6. On a well-floured surface, press one piece of dough into an 8-inch round with a 1-inch outer lip. Carefully lift the dough with your hands, cupping the lip to keep from flattening it. Working quickly, rotate the edge of the dough through your hands in a clockwise motion, allowing gravity to stretch the dough into a round shape. Place the dough back on the flour and stretch it into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to the prepared foil.

7. Sprinkle the surface of the pizza with 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan. Spread 1⁄2 cup of pizza sauce over the parmesan, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle the pizza with 11⁄2 cups of low-moisture mozzarella and 1⁄2-cup cubed fresh mozzarella.

8. Using the upside-down baking sheet as a pizza peel, transfer the pizza with the foil to the preheated baking stone. Bake until the crust is browned and the cheese is bubbling 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer the pizza from the foil to a cooling rack. Brush the crust with olive oil, sprinkle the surface with basil leaves, and serve hot. Repeat the process for the other dough round.

Bethpage Orchestra Student Earns Scholarship

Incoming

Sfeir, a viola player, submitted a letter of recommendation from her orchestra teacher and wrote an essay explaining why she wanted to be considered for the scholarship. The Bethpage Union Free School District congratulates her on this outstanding achievement.

PHOTO RIGHT: Bethpage High School Orchestra Director Dr.

Kay (left) with 2023 LISFA Studio Award recipient Katherine Sfeir (right). Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

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• Penne alla Vodka

• Lasagna

• Baked Ziti

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• Caesar Salad

• House Salad

TACOS (2 minimum)

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Breaded tomato basil

EGGPLANT

SCARPARIELLO

Chicken, potatoes

Breaded eggplant, roasted peppers, homemade cabbage slaw, tomato basil marinade

SCARPARIELLO

SHRIMP

Breaded topped

Chicken, sausage, mushrooms, onions, roasted peppers and potatoes in a brown sauce topped with parsley

SAUSAGE

Crumbled diced

SHRIMP SCAMPI

Breaded shrimp sauteed in garlic and lemon butter sauce, topped with lettuce

ZUCCHINI

Zucchini

SAUSAGE & BROCCOLI RABE

Parmigiano

Crumbled sausage, sauteed onions, roasted red peppers, diced potato marinade topped with Parmigiano cheese

NEOPOLITAN

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Zucchini and egg frittata with sauteed onions and Parmigiano cheese

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House Made Sangria or Tito's Drinks

LUNCH SPECIALS

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homemade fresh mozzarella, lettuce sauce

Marinated grilled chicken, homemade fresh mozzarella, lettuce and tomato with sun dried pesto sauce

GRILLED VEGETABLE

Green and yellow zucchini, red peppers, and grilled eggplant with mozzarella with sun dried pesto sauce

BUFFALO CHICKEN

Chicken cutlet tossed with hot sauce, crisp romaine lettuce, tomato and mozzarella

BROCCOLI RABE (choice of chicken or sausage)

Sauteed broccoli rabe, homemade fresh mozzarella and seasoned roasted peppers with sausage

VEGGIE

Sauteed broccoli, zucchini, peppers, onions, spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, goat cheese

CHICKEN

Marinated sauteed chicken, raw spinach, sauteed peppers, onions, blue cheese

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A Whimsical Fall Treat Ideal For Special Gatherings

Pumpkin spice may be all the rage in October and November, but it’s all about apples in the early weeks of fall. Visiting a local orchard to hand-pick apples is an entertaining way to spend an afternoon with the young or old, and it’s a great opportunity to gather ingredients

Flying Unicorn Pie

Makes 1 pie

Ingredients:

Egg wash (or almond milk if making a vegan pie)

Brown gel food color

Vanilla extract

Assortment of sanding sugar, sprinkles, and small Sixlets or dragées

Gold and pearl luster dust

Vodka or any clear alcohol or extract to mix with the luster dust

1⁄3 cup raisins

1⁄3 cup chopped walnuts

Supplies:

The pie pan of your choice

Baking sheet

Parchment paper

Food-safe precision knife

Pastry brush

Food-safe artist brushes

Ramekins or small containers to mix color and hold egg wash

Fondant sculpting tool (or toothpick)

Directions:

1. Roll out the dough of your choice onto parchment and cut out all the Flying Unicorn template pieces with a sharp knife. Cut out as many “rays” as you like. Don’t worry if they look long; they’ll shrink in the oven! (Purchase the cookbook for the template or use clip art to create your own template.)

2. Coat all the pieces in the egg wash using a pastry brush.

for apple pie. For fall birthdays or other special occasions, skip the celebratory cake for something even more eye-catching: an elaborately decorated pie! Not too many people can resist the tart flavor of fresh apples and the buttery, flaky appeal of a delicious pie crust.

Turn a store-bought or homemade pie into an artistic masterpiece with these directions for “Flying Unicorn Pie” from “Pies are Awesome: The Definitive Pie Art Book” (Quarto) by Jessica Leigh Clark-Bojin.

3. Paste the pieces together using the egg wash as “glue.”Smooth out the joints with the back of your fingernail or a fondant sculpting tool. If you have any trouble lifting the pieces, just pop your work in the freezer for 2 minutes, then use a spatula to lift the bits. Score some feather lines in the wings with a fondant sculpting tool.

4. You can either paint the unicorn now with gel colors or just give it a quick vanilla wash. Make sure you choose colors that will stand out from your background. Bake the pieces at 400 F (200 C) for about 8 minutes, or until golden brown. Every oven is slightly different so keep an eye on it. Set the baked pieces aside to cool while you make the base pie. If you are making your base pie, add a decorative crimped edge of some sort to fancy it up.

5. Once the base pie has baked, place your cooled “ray” pieces evenly around the top of the base pie with a spatula. Let the pie fully cool and then add the edible bling of your choice (This is the fun part!).

6. For the final step, place a dab of jam, chocolate, sugar glue, or leftover filling in the center as glue, and place your unicorn with a spatula. You can add some luster dust mixed with a bit of vodka now if you feel like it needs a bit more fabulousness.

Tip: Since you are going to be coating the top of this pie in sanding sugars, select a filling that is not overly sweet — maybe something tart — don’t put any sugar in the crust. You can use any flavor of filling you like and the dough of your choice. You can also use a store-bought pie.

Age Is No Deterrent When It Comes To Academics

Students often experience some jitters on the first day of school, but the prospect of such nervousness doesn’t appear to be too great a deterrent for students 60 and older. Officials at Toronto’s York University estimated they had around 430 students aged 60 and older in the undergraduate and graduate programs in 2021. Increased enrollment among people at or near what is often considered retirement age could be a reflection of what the AARP notes have been an increase in continuing education courses at many colleges and universities. Such courses may be offered to individuals of a certain age at reduced tuition. They also can help workers over 50 learn new skills that can benefit them in an ever-adapting professional landscape that increasingly relies on technologies that may not have been around when older professionals attended college and began their careers. In addition, the AARP reports that individuals interested in going back to school for personal enrichment, as opposed to achieving an advanced degree, may be able to audit classes for free. In such instances, older adults often do not receive academic credit but still get to benefit from taking the class.

Fall Is A Great Season To Spend Time In The Yard

Gardening enthusiasts recognize that fall is not a time to rest on their laurels. In fact, fall is a great season to spend time in the yard. The Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst indicates fall is the ideal time to improve the soil for next season. Amending the soil in the fall allows it to react accordingly over time and reap the benefits in spring. UMass suggests getting an accurate soil test to see what is needed in the garden. Samples should be taken from various areas. Avoid doing so when the soil is very wet. At-home kits can test for nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous and determine the soil’s pH. Gardeners should till the soil and add compost or manure, which will counteract many nutritional deficiencies. Worm castings also are good to add, particularly for summer vegetable gardens. The gardening company Park Seed says that worm castings are high in minerals and effective at holding water — so much so that they even can be used alone in place of potting soil. Crushed egg shells, coffee grounds, and banana peels also can be added in the fall, even if they are not part of a compost pile. The nutrients will break down throughout the fall and winter, and be available just in time for summer plantings.

Fall Flavors Shine In A Chewy Cookie

Fall is a season of cooler temperatures and changing leaves, and it also marks the return of autumn flavor profiles. Root vegetables, roasts and heartier fare are prime cooking ingredients this time of year. In terms of baking, treats spiced with ginger and cinnamon are in demand each fall. Carrot cake and oatmeal cookies are familiar favorites this time of year. In this recipe for “Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies” from “Live Well Bake Cookies” (Quarto Group) by Danielle Rye, delicious spiced carrot cake is transformed into a soft and chewy cookie.

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies

Makes 22 cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 1⁄2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

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

1⁄2 cup packed light brown sugar

1⁄4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3⁄4 cup lightly packed freshly grated carrots

1⁄3 cup raisins

1⁄3 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 3500 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger until well combined. Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats and 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, brown sugar 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, then fold in the grated carrots, raisins and chopped walnuts until fully incorporated.

6. Using a 11⁄2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one. Gently press each ball of cookie dough down to slightly flatten it.

7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 to 10 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Wishing Everyone

A Safe And Happy Labor Day!

Bethpage

234 Broadway, Bethpage (516) 931-1454

ArthurFWhite.com

Farmingdale

315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale (516) 249-0336

“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

Fun Facts About The Month Of September

September marks a return to the norm for millions of households. School is back in session, summer vacation season has ended and fall begins. Routines take shape and life once again becomes more structured in September. As that transition takes place, individuals can consider these fun facts about September.

1. Though Latin is no longer widely spoken or taught, plenty of words, including September, trace their origins to the language of ancient Rome and its empire. “Septem” is the Latin word for “seven,” and September was originally the seventh month of the Roman calendar.

2. Though the autumnal equinox, which marks the official beginning of fall, does not occur until later in the month, the unofficial end to summer occurs on the first weekend of September. Americans celebrate Labor Day, and Canadians celebrate Labour Day on the first Monday in September, and millions of people in both countries consider that weekend the last hurrah for summer relaxation and revelry.

3. Labor Day is not the only holiday to be celebrated in September. Rosh Hashanah, a Jewish holiday that is often referred to as the “Jewish New Year,” also is celebrated in September in many years (the holiday occurs 163 days after the first day of Passover, so in certain years it is celebrated in early October.) The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur also can be celebrated in September or October, and Constitution Day, which commemorates

the adoption of the United States constitution in 1787, is celebrated on September 17. Patriot Day also occurs annually on September 11 and is a day to remember the people killed in the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001.

4. Though its name might suggest otherwise, Oktoberfest begins in late September. Modern Oktoberfest celebrations, particularly those outside the Bavaria region of Germany, may have little to do with a marriage, but the festival traces its origins to the marriage of Kronprinz Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on October 12, 1810. Citizens of Munich were invited to attend the festivities, and more than two centuries later that jovial atmosphere dominates the city and countless others across the globe, during Oktoberfest.

5. Football fans circle the month of September on their calendars, as the month marks the return of the National Football League regular season. The reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs will host the Detroit Lions in the NFL Kickoff Game on September 7, and the rest of the league will take to the gridiron on September 10 and 11. That’s a big deal for millions of fans across the country, as the NFL remains wildly popular. An analysis by the Sports Business Journal found that per-game attendance averaged 69,442 fans in 2022, which marked the second-largest figure in 19 years.

Walsh Announces

Fall 2023 Toddler Arts & Crafts Program Registration Opens

Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that the popular Toddler Arts & Crafts Program will be offered again this Fall, beginning on October 10th. This 6-week program offers classes at the Town’s Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage and at the Hicksville Athletic Center, and is open to children ages 2 through 4.

“The Town’s Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is a wonderful way to help support your toddler’s development through nurturing their artistic expression,” said Councilwoman Walsh. “Classes will certainly

September 6th for Popular Program

fill up quickly as this program offers children an opportunity to meet others their age and explore their creativity. Highlights of the program include holiday crafts and ceramics.”

The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program begins October 10th and is 6 weeks in duration. Residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take place on: Tuesdays at 10:00 am for two-year-olds, and 11:00 am for threeand-four-year-olds at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville; Wednesdays at 10:00

am for two-year-olds, and 11:00 am for threeand-four-year-olds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage; and Thursdays at 10:00 am for two-year-olds, and 11:00 am for threeand-four-year-olds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage.

Registration will take place ONLINE through the Parks Portal available at oysterbaytown.com/ portal beginning on September 6th at 9:00 am. Space is limitedfirst come, first serve. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity.

Each class is

approximately 45 minutes. The cost of the program is $35 per child who is a Town resident, and $45 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. The child’s birth certificate and a tax or utility bill will be required to validate age and proof of residency. A guardian must be present during the class. A smock and supplies will be provided with enrollment.

The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For further information, please call (516) 797-7945.

Labor Day Weekend Travel Tips

Labor Day is celebrated on the same day in the United States and Canada each year. An annual holiday to celebrate the achievements of workers, Labor Day (known as Labour Day in Canada), occurs on the first Monday of September each year. Though its status as the end of summer is not technically accurate, Labor Day marks the unofficial end to the season of fun in the sun for millions of people across both the U.S. and Canada. That makes the weekend preceding Labor Day one of the most popular times to travel. Indeed, data from the Transportation Security Administration indicate that the Friday before Labor Day 2022 was the second busiest travel day at U.S. airports that summer. Travel was equally popular on Labour Day weekend 2022 in Canada, where the online booking platform Kayak reports searches for

international flights had increased by 104 percent compared to the year prior. Labor Day weekend travel figures to be just as popular this year, so travelers can remember these tips as they plan one last summer getaway.

• Book as early as possible. With so many people

interested in traveling on Labor Day weekend, it behooves all travelers to plan ahead. Competition for hotel rooms and other lodgings might be steep, and individuals who plan to fly might have trouble finding seats on flights that leave during peak travel hours the longer

they delay.

• Consider traveling by car. Air travel aficionados had some good news and bad news as the summer travel season began in 2023. Data from FlightAware indicated that flight cancellations were down in 2023 compared to 2022. However, FlightAware

data also indicated there were an average of 7,000 to 9,000 flight delays per day in the U.S. in the first half of 2023. No one wants to send off the last weekend of summer with a lengthy flight delay, so travelers who want to spend as much time as possible celebrating may want to drive rather than fly to their destinations.

• Drive during off-peak hours. Air travelers must cede some control over when to depart, but drivers can pick their own time to hit the road. Starting a trip during off-peak hours, such as early in the morning or even after rush hour on Thursday night, may enable drivers to avoid traffic.

• Travel light. Warm weather tends to linger into Labor Day weekend, so there’s no need to pack heavy. That’s especially noteworthy for air travelers. The lighter

travelers can pack for a flight, the less likely they will need to check a bag. That decreases the likelihood that bags will be lost if a flight is delayed or canceled, and it also allows travelers to deplane and leave the airport without having to wait around to claim their bags.

• Extend the trip. An extra day at the end of the trip can help travelers avoid the crowds on the way home. Parents may need to travel on Labor Day if school is already in session or starting on Tuesday. But travelers who have no reason to rush home can get an extra day of fun in the sun and travel home on a day that tends to be less hectic.

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer. Travelers can keep various strategies in mind to get the most out of summer’s swan song.

How Parents Can Pitch In At Their Children’s Schools

Giving back to one’s community can take many forms. Some may give back by supporting the legislature to make communities more inclusive, while others may volunteer with their local fire departments.

Parents of school-aged youngsters can typically find many opportunities to give back through their children’s schools.

Parents who volunteer at their children’s schools often get a unique glimpse into their children’s life at school. Such parents may see how their children interact with educators and classmates and gain greater insight into the school community where kids spend so much of their time. Volunteering at school also can benefit kids, who may recognize the importance of education more readily if mom and/ or dad are spending their free time on campus. That recognition can leave to

improved performance in the classroom.

Parent-teacher associations can be great resources for parents who want to volunteer with their children’s schools. Each year, students graduate and move on to new schools or colleges, meaning schools are in new need of parent volunteers each school year. Though each school has its own unique needs, the following are some roles parent volunteers may be able to play at their children’s schools.

• Tutor

• Mentor

• IT support: Parents with significant experience in tech or information technology can offer to lend a hand or provide advice or insight in support of a school’s IT staff

• Organizer: Schools host many functions in a typical school year, and officials typically ask

parents to pitch in so such events can be successful. For example, parents can help organize school fundraisers, dances, and holiday bazaars.

• Chaperone on field trips

• Assistant coach: Many

schools pay stipends to the head coaches of their athletic teams, but parents can serve as unpaid assistants or support staff during the season. For example, parents can volunteer to

work as gameday staff, taking tickets at the gate or directing ticket holders where to park.

• Club official: Extracurricular clubs also can benefit from parents willing to work

as volunteers. Parents can help students who want to start new clubs or serve as moderators or helpers in existing clubs.

• Speaker: High schools may host periodic career days throughout the school year to help students on the cusp of applying to college uncover potential career paths. Parents with significant professional experience in a given field can offer to speak to students on career days, sharing information about their careers and industries and answering any questions students may have.

• Administrative support: Parents can also pitch to help with behind-thescenes administrative duties like letter-writing, grant proposals, and other projects that are vital in securing funding for school programs and other services.

Bethpage High School in the Bethpage Union Free School District was once again recognized as a Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction from the New York State Public High

Bethpage High School Earns Scholar-Athlete School Of Distinction Award

School Athletic Association, Inc. It is among 84 schools from across the state to receive this honor for the 2022-2023 school year.

To earn the School of Distinction Award, a school

must have 100 percent of its varsity athletes qualify for and receive the scholar-athlete team award during their respective athletic seasons. Teams are presented with the scholar-

athlete recognition if 75 percent of their roster has a GPA greater than or equal to 90. During the 202223 school year, Bethpage High School had its 31 teams reach this academic

achievement, reinforcing the district’s strong commitment to not only athletics but to academic excellence.

The Bethpage Union Free School District

congratulates the entire athletic department and its student-athletes on this prestigious honor.

Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District

Crustless Pie A Treat For Those With Gluten Intolerance

The holiday season is a popular time to entertain. Food is often a focal point of the holiday season entertaining. Individuals who navigate food allergies or intolerances may shy away from certain celebrations out of fear that a nibble of this or a bite of that may trigger an allergic response. In such instances, concern about ingredients can cast a pall over normally festive occasions. Those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerances must be mindful of the foods they consume. Meals or desserts containing gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, semolina, rye, barley, graham, spelt, farina, and more, can trigger intestinal distress and other symptoms. With delicious pies, cakes, and cookies on the holiday serving table, gluten is likely to make an appearance. However, with careful planning, people who cannot stomach foods that contain gluten can still indulge in their favorite holiday flavors.

“Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie” is a variation of traditional pumpkin pie served at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. Without the crust, individuals who avoid gluten can still dive into that pumpkin-and-spice combination that’s so popular around the holiday season. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of Libby’s® Pumpkin.

Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie

Makes 8 servings

3⁄4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger

1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves

2 large eggs

1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s®

100% Pure Pumpkin

1 can (12 fluid ounces)

Nestlé® Carnation Evaporated Milk

Nonstick cooking spray

Whipped cream (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven as directed below. Glass baking dishes without crust require a cooler oven, and in most cases, a longer baking time.

2. Spray baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease bottom of baking pan or baking dish.

3. Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in a small bowl. Beat eggs in a large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

4. Bake as directed below or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean.

5. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Cooking times

9-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 55 to 60 minutes

10-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes

8-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes

9-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes

8-inch-square baking pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes

8-inch-square glass baking dish: 325 F; 50 to 60 minutes

9-inch-square baking dish: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes

11x7-inch glass baking dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes

13x9-inch baking pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes

13x9-inch glass baking dish: 325 F; bake for 40 to 45 minutes

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