April 10, 2024 Farmingdale South

• Linguine w/ Clam Sauce

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Cheese Platter

• Grilled Vegetable Platter

Salad (Choose One)

• Garden Salad

• Caesar Salad

• Giardinastro

• Spinach & Goat Cheese

• Arugula Salad

Main Course (Choose one per ten people. Must choose one pasta dish.)

Pasta (must choose one)

• Cavatelli Calabrese

• Farfalle Primavera

• Gemelli alla Gabriella

• Linguine ai Frutti di Mare

• Orzo Mediterranean

• Penne alla Vodka

Turkey London Broil

• Roasted Turkey Breast

• Stuffed Chicken

Maintaining A Lawn Routinely Roamed By Pets HOME & GARDEN

Vibrant, green lawns can draw attention to any landscape. Many homeowners toil for hours each week to ensure their lawns are pristine or invest in lawn care services to help maintain a yard if they do not have the time to do so themselves. While many treatments can be applied to lawns to help them thrive, animal waste is not among them. Pet owners who aspire to have beautiful lawns have to take a few extra steps to ensure lawns can persevere despite the presence of furry companions.

Reseed with a damage-resistant grass

There are many different types of grass, and some are more resilient than others. Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and Bermuda grass are just

some of the grass varieties that can capably handle pet traffic. If replacing the entire lawn is not possible, consider reseeding or addressing the areas that pets frequent.

Strengthen the root system

It may be tempting to cut the lawn short, particularly if dogs or cats like to nibble on long blades of grass, but that approach could be doing the lawn a disservice. According to The Home Depot, letting the lawn grow to at least three inches will keep moisture in the soil and prevent evaporation. That moisture will strengthen the roots, creating a healthier lawn.

Create pet paths

Various materials can be used in these high-

traffic areas to minimize the sights and signs of pet traffic. Mulch or crushed stone can establish these pet highways and look like intended features.

Set boundaries

Pet urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which can burn grass and turn it brown. It’s not possible to water down urine or pick up solid waste immediately every time a pet goes outdoors, so designate a pet-friendly spot for potty time. Use fencing or a dog run to separate this area and help mitigate “land mines” all over the lawn. Fencing also can keep pets out of vegetable gardens and away from potentially toxic plants.

Avoid chemical lawn treatments

When pets use the yard

and rest on the lawn, you’ll need to eliminate products that can be harmful to them. Choose all-natural fertilizers and weed and pest preventatives.

Look for alternatives

If maintaining a lawn with pets seems like an

uphill battle, consider swapping out your landscape with a variety of materials. Scale back on grass, and incorporate groundcover, hardscape materials like pea gravel, or extend the patio.

Artificial turf also is an option, as it won’t brown

and wither. Some turf products can even be quickly and thoroughly cleaned with water.

It takes trial and error for pet parents to protect their lawns from the effects of having furry friends playing in the yard.

HOME & GARDEN

A Rundown On DIY Demos

Homeowners looking to make improvements to their homes likely want to make such projects as budget-friendly as possible. After soliciting estimates from contractors, homeowners may seek to do some work themselves to cut costs. That is why many individuals handle demolition and other preparatory tasks before contractors start. There are important things to keep in mind when doing a demo.

• Prybars are your friend. These tools, sometimes called crowbars, can be used to remove nails or pull materials apart.

• Cover vents in the

space where you’re working. Construction dust can be sucked into the HVAC system and cause furnaces to clog. This also may cause the distribution of dust throughout the home.

• Use safety gear. Always wear safety goggles, gloves, boots, and other equipment as needed to remain safe.

• Get a power saw. Circular and reciprocating saws can cut through various materials, making faster work of demolition.

• Exercise caution when removing drywall. You don’t know what is behind the drywall,

including electric wires, so be careful when choosing a spot to make the first hole in the drywall.

• Get a trash container with a gate. You’ll save yourself some aches and pains by being able to fill a wheelbarrow and dump it into the container, rather than tossing debris over the top.

• Bust up heavy or bulky items. Cast iron tubs and shower surrounds can be heavy and difficult to move. Unless it’s a family heirloom, cut or break large items into pieces to remove them more easily.

Renovations That Help Sell Homes HOME & GARDEN

The adage “there’s a lid for every pot” suggests that, even in relation to the real estate market, there’s bound to be a buyer for every home on the market. Price is a significant variable in the minds of potential buyers, but there are additional factors that can affect the impression people get of a given home. Certain home features can tip the scales in favor of sellers. In fact, various renovations can help sell homes more readily. And these renovations need not cost a fortune. Putting a home on the market can be stressful, but these renovations may help it sell fast.

• A fresh coat of paint: Although painting is relatively inexpensive and a job that some doit-yourselfers can tackle, it’s not a task relished by many. Painting is messy, it takes time, and requires moving furniture. In fact, prepping a room for painting often is the toughest component of any painting job. But fresh coats of paint can create a strong first impression. Choose a neutral color and get painting. Jennie Norris, chairwoman for the International Association of Home Staging Professionals, says gray is a “safe” color that has been trending in recent years.

• Minor bathroom remodel: Remove dated wall coverings, replace fixtures, consider reglazing or replacing an old tub, and swap old shower doors for fast fixes in a bathroom. If there’s more room in the budget, replacing a tub, tile surround, floor, toilet, sink, vanity, and fixtures can cost roughly $10,500, says HGTV. You’ll recoup

an average of $10,700 at resale, making a minor bathroom remodel a potentially worthy investment.

• Redone kitchen: The kitchen tends to be the hub of a home. This room gets the most usage and attention of any space, and it’s a great place to focus your remodeling attention. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry estimates that homeowners can recover up to 52 percent of the cost of a kitchen upgrade upon selling a home. Buyers want a functional and updated kitchen. Trending features include drawer-style microwaves and dishwashers, commercial ranges, hidden outlets, and even wine refrigerators.

• Updated heating and cooling system: Better Homes and Gardens reports that homeowners may be able to recoup 85 percent of the cost of new HVAC systems when they

sell their homes. Heating, cooling and ventilation components are vital to maintain. You don’t want buyers to be taken aback by an older system, and many millennial buyers are not willing to overlook old mechanical systems.

• Fresh landscaping: A home’s exterior is the first thing buyers will see. If they pull up to a home with eyecatching landscaping and outdoor areas that are attractive yet functional, they’re more likely to be intrigued. Often buyers will equate a home that features an impressive exterior with upkeep inside as well. The American Nursery Landscape Association says the average homeowner may spend $3,500 for landscaping.

Improving a home’s chances to sell quickly and at a higher price often comes down to making smart improvements that catch the eyes of buyers.

Enjoy Music Of Various Eras And Genres

Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that the Town Distinguished Artists Concert Series will continue this spring with free performances at local libraries throughout the Town.

“The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Councilwoman Walsh. “I encourage residents to take advantage of these wonderful performances offered by the Town for free at local libraries.”

Scheduled performances for April and May include:

The Hambones on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at 3:00 pm at the PlainviewOld Bethpage Public Library – Performing rock, country, rhythm and blues, folk and more.

All welcome/free tickets required, tickets available at library. For more information call POB Library (516) 938-0077.

Squeaky Clean Band on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Hicksville Public Library – Performing songs familiar to those who enjoy 1960s-era AM radio.

Gene Casey & The Lone Sharks on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at 2:30 pm at the Farmingdale Public

Library – Performing rockabilly, twang & Johnny Cash-style country music.

Bay Big Band on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Hicksville Public Library – an 18-piece big band playing greatest hits.

The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For the full concert schedule and further information, please call (516) 797-7925 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ CAPA.

April 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.

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

7:00PM

HISTORY OF THE FIRE ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

The Seaford Historical Society will host Angela Reich from the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society. Her presentation will be about the history of the Lighthouse and it's historic rescues. Her book, "Shipwreck of Hopes", will be for sale that evening (cash only). Held at 3890 Waverly Ave in Seaford. Refreshments, raffles. $5 for nonmembers, free to members. For more info email mapfannon@verizon.net.

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

10:00AM-1:00PM

WHITE ELEPHANT AND BAG SALE

The Simpson United Methodist Church in Amityville is having a thrift shop sale. Pack a bag of clothes for $5 or buy some thrift shop treasures. New and used items are available for sale. Located at 30 Locust Avenue, Amityville. Call Mary for more information at 516-991-8098. Donations are accepted.

SATURDAY, APRIL 13

6:30PM

RADIO BINGO

The St. Rose of Lima Outreach in Massapequa is having a fun fundraiser. The event will take place in the school's all-purpose room. Admisson is $35 per person (over 21 please) and includes bingo, and refreshments. Tickets for raffle baskets and other prizes will be available for purchase. For more information call 516-798-6237.

7:00PM

SUPERMARKET WINGO AND CHINESE AUCTION

The Grace United Methodist Church is hosting a Supermarket WINGO and Chinese Auction. Doors open at 6PM. Admission is $10. For more information call 631-226-8690.

SUNDAY, APRIL 14

8:00AM-10:00AM

FLAPJACK FUNDRAISER

Support the West Islip Boy Scout Troop 95 for a Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee's in East Islip. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $6 for children under 10. Tickets available at the door. For more information call 631-379-0577 or email mommymastro5@gmail.com. If you are unable to attend, donations are accepted by Venmo at @troop-95.

10:00AM-4:30PM

ALL KIDS FAIR

This year’s All Kids Fair will be held at Samanea New York Mall, formerly The Source Mall, at 1504 Old Country Road in Westbury. There will be various activities and for children such as face painting, balloon animals, ninja warrior obstacle course and more. Tickets can be purchased online, $5 for children ages 2 and up and adults, at www. AllKidsFair.com/Tickets. Tickets purchased at the door are $10 for children ages 2 and up and $5 for adults. Children 1 and younger are admitted at no charge. Visit their website at www.AllKidsFair.com for more information.

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

7:00PM

AUCTION/TRIVIA NIGHT

The Our Lady of Perpetual Help Blue Door Boutique is sponsoring an auction/trivia night at the school auditorium, 240 South Wellwood

Avenue, Lindenhurst. There will be a fun-filled night of trivia and exciting auctions. Admission is: $5 and includes an auction paddle and entrance to the trivia quiz. Admission tickets are available at the door. Proceeds benefit the Church. Email gtonness@optonline.net for more information.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

10:30AM

GARDENING CLASS

A series of gardening classes created to address everything that's going on in your garden at the time of the class. Held at Organics Today Farm in East Islip. Visit OT Farm on Facebook for more info or text 631-480-6497.

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

7:15PM-10:30PM JINGO

The Constantino Brumidi Lodge n Deer Park presents JINGO, a fun spin on traditional bingo where bingo balls are replaced with music beats. Doors open at 6:30 PM $30 per person Includes: 1 JINGO packet, crayons or markers on the table,dessert, coffee/ tea, cash bar, and door prize. For tickets or more information call Karen at 631-943-3622.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

8:30PM

DRIVE-IN MOVIE

A charity drive-in movie, screening Back To The Future, at Costello's Ace Hardware in Copiague. Attend for a donation of any amount. Proceeds benefit Kids Need More, helping families coping with life-threatening illnesses. Just show up or reserve your parking spot on their website at www.kidsneedmore.org/movie.

Saladino Renews Demands For Grumman To Excavate Contaminated Soils At Bethpage Community Park Graveyard Of Chemical Drums Unearthed

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino renewed demands for Northrop Grumman to excavate all contaminated soils at Bethpage Community Park following the recent discovery of six 55-gallon chemical drums buried just 7 feet underground near the ballfield and skatepark. These chemical drums are encased in concrete coffins, which is highly uncommon according to environmental experts. To ensure the health and safety of residents, the Town of Oyster Bay immediately notified the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and retained an environmental engineer. Additionally, the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Haz Mat Team determined that there is no safety hazard to the public at this time.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “The secret burial of these drums is further proof as to why we need the highest level of cleanup to remove all contaminants from the park, and truck them off Long Island to protect the health and safety of our community. Despite our demands and Grumman knowing of pollution at this park for decades, they continue to drag their feet and use a haphazard approach to dealing with this environmental nightmare.”

As reported in Newsday and News12 in 2016, a tipster suggested that drums were buried underground in the park. That claim was deemed unfounded by the DEC, yet chemical filled drums were recently discovered buried in the park. Less than a year ago, the Town began soil borings to investigate the park more thoroughly due to a lack of urgency by Grumman. With this recent discovery, Grumman is now being forced to move forward with radar scans to

determine where additional contaminants are in the park.

“For decades, Grumman has refused to properly cleanup the park and this discovery is further evidence that we cannot trust them. That is why my administration filed the Town’s second lawsuit against Grumman in September. Grumman’s haphazard approach has led to clear environmental hazards and still no one knows the true extent of what is buried below the surface. This discovery of drums encased in concrete coffins is further proof that the park was Grumman’s graveyard for contamination. They buried their environmental sins of the past in our backyard. The Governor, State Department of Environmental Conservation, Environmental Protection Agency and our U.S. Senate and Congress members must join the Town in compelling Grumman to remove all contaminated soils from Bethpage Community Park and truck them off Long Island. Our residents deserve better and we will not settle for anything less,” added Supervisor Saladino.

BACKGROUND:

From the 1930s to 1990s, the 600-acre Grumman facility in Bethpage was home to aerospace manufacturing, research and testing. In 1962, when Grumman donated the polluted 18-acres site, the deed transfer required the Town of Oyster Bay to use the donated real estate as a Park. Thus, Grumman was/is aware that their potential pollutants route of exposure is to a high-risk human population, not an industrial park or military installation. It wasn’t widely disclosed until 2002 that portions of the land had been the company’s chemical waste disposal site and are a primary

SALADINO RENEWS DEMANDS FOR GRUMMAN TO EXCAVATE CONTAMINATED SOILS

Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino renewed demands for Northrop Grumman to excavate all contaminated soils at Bethpage Community Park following the recent discovery of six 55-gallon chemical drums buried just 7 feet underground near the ballfield and skatepark.

source of groundwater contamination. While Grumman and the Navy, which owned 105-acres of the 600-acre site, are responsible for cleaning up the region’s larger area of groundwater pollution, Grumman is solely responsible for environmentally remediating the Community Park. A 2020 Newsday investigation detailed a history of deceptive statements, missteps and minimization that slowed the cleanup of this environmental crisis. Remediation of the Park by Grumman has

followed a March 2013 Record of Decision (ROD) with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), for which the Town has been adamant is not fully protective of the health and safety of our residents and the environment. Nearly 11 years later, the Park remains partially closed, insufficiently investigated, and still highly contaminated while Grumman has continued its lethargic progress without penalty by the State. An entire generation of Town residents have lost out on public access to the full

enjoyment of the facilities at the Park, with many never knowing that beyond the stockade fence that has stood for so long is a baseball field that once brought joy and excitement to so many children and their families. Today, boringafter-boring demonstrate that a tremendous concentration of pollution continues to exist in the ground. Grumman must be held accountable for this cleanup. The Town has continually sought to modify the inadequacies of the March 2013 Record of Decision. We must achieve a full remediation of the

Park’s soils for both VOCs and PCBs. We believe that the site must meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cleanup standards for unrestricted property use and protection of groundwater standards. Furthermore, the remediation program that has been approved places restrictions on how the Town can maintain and improve the Park in the future, as the residual contamination that will be allowed to remain in place will require the Town to implement additional costly testing and remediation any time soil is disturbed.

- Oyster

Tips To Revitalize A Garden This Spring HOME & GARDEN

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that pays a host of significant dividends. Many people love gardening because it allows them to spend time outdoors, and that simple pleasure is a notable benefit of working in a garden. However, the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture

notes that gardening provides many additional benefits, including helping people get sufficient levels of exercise, reduce stress, and improve mood. With so much to gain from gardening, it’s no wonder people look forward to getting their hands dirty in the garden each spring.

As the weather warms up, consider these tips to help bring a garden back to life.

• Discard the dead weight. Winter can take its toll on a garden, even in regions where the weather between December and early spring is not especially harsh. Discard dead plants that have lingered into spring and prune any perennials that need it. Branches that fell during winter storms also should be removed at this point if they have not previously been discarded.

• Test the soil. Soil testing kits can be purchased at local garden centers and home improvement retailers. Such tests are inexpensive and can reveal if the soil needs to be amended to help plants thrive.

• Mulch garden beds. Mulching benefits a garden by helping soil retain moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Various garden experts note that mulching in spring can prevent weed seeds from germinating throughout spring and summer. That means plants won’t fight weeds for water when the temperature gets warmer. It also means gardeners won’t have to spend time pulling weeds this summer.

• Inspect your irrigation system. Homeowners with in-ground irrigation systems or above-ground systems that utilize a drip or soaker function can inspect the systems before plants bloom. Damaged sprinkler heads or torn lines can deprive

plants of the water they need to bloom and ultimately thrive once the weather warms up.

• Tune up your tools. Gardening tools have likely been sitting around gathering dust since fall. Serious gardeners know that tools can be expensive, so it pays to protect that investment by maintaining tools. Sharpened pruners help make plants less vulnerable to infestation

and infection. Wellmaintained tools like shovels and hoes also make more demanding gardening jobs a little bit easier, so don’t forget to tune up your tools before the weather warms up.

It’s almost gardening season, so gardeners can start on the necessary prep work to ensure their gardens grow strong and beautiful this spring.