Social Security Announces Upcoming Changes To Accessing Online Services Agency Transitioning
Authentication Services To Login.gov
The Social Security Administration recently announced that customers who created an online account (e.g., my Social Security account) before September 18, 2021, will soon be required to transition to a Login.gov account to continue access to their online services. Over five million of these account holders have already transitioned to Login.gov
The agency is making the changes to simplify the sign-in experience and align with federal authentication standards while providing safe and secure access to online services.
“my Social Security is a safe and secure way for
people to do business with us,” said Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley. “We’re excited to transition to Login.gov to access our online services, streamlining the process and ease of use for the public across agencies.”
Account holders are encouraged to sign-in now. When the user logs in, they will be presented with an option to easily transition to Login.gov. Once their account is successfully linked, a confirmation screen will appear, and they will have immediate access to their personal my Social Security services or other service that they were attempting to access.
Existing Login.gov or ID.me account holders do
NOT need to create a new account or take any action. my Social Security accounts are free, secure, and provide personalized tools for everyone, whether receiving benefits or not. People can use their account to request a replacement Social Security card, check the status of an application, estimate future benefits, or manage the benefits they already receive. For more information visit Create an Account | my Social Security | SSA
For more information about Login.gov, including their 24/7 customer phone and chat support, visit Help | Login.gov.
The 42nd Annual Paumanauke Pow-Wow
The Paumanauke Native American Festival Inc., The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA), and the Town of Babylon proudly present the 42nd Paumanauke Pow-Wow on Saturday, August 10, 2024 and Sunday, August 11, 2024 at Tanner Park in Copiague, located on Long Island’s Great South Bay.
This two-day, familyfriendly festival of Native American culture features Indigenous dance and dance competitions, traditional drums, native foods, and plenty of audience participation. Through an exhibition of Native American art, music and dance, the Paumanauke Pow-Wow brings these traditions to visitors in a beautiful setting at Tanner Park. Native
American artists, artisans and craftspeople will display their goods for sale.
Admission (at the gate): Adults $10, Seniors (60+) $5, Teens 12-16 $5, Children under 12 - FREE. Rain or Shine. Bring a lawn chair.
Saturday, August 10th 10am-9:30pm Grand Entry: 12 Noon & 7pm
Sunday, August 11th 10am-5pm Grand Entry: 12 Noon
For more information, please contact Liz Mirarchi at info@ babylonarts.org.
The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts is a not-for-profit arts organization bringing theater, music, fine arts and cultural events to the residents of the Town of Babylon, NY. Please
visit our website at www. babylonarts.org for a complete listing of our programs and events, or to find information about becoming a member.
BACCA’s programs are made possible in part with public funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the County of Suffolk, County Executive Ed Romaine and the Suffolk County Legislature, the Town of Babylon, Supervisor Rich Schaffer, the Town of Babylon Local Development Corporation (LDC), the Lindenhurst Business Improvement District, and from membership and private contributions.
AUGUST HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7
7:30PM-9:30PM
OWL PROWL WEDNESDAY
Visit Sweetbriar to meet and learn about some of their resident owls. Embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and call some owls. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight.
*Must have tickets to attend this event. No walk ins permitted* Open to families with children ages 5y and up. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8
5:00 PM
FARMINGDALE MUSIC ON MAIN 2024
Sponsored by the Farmingdale Village Merchants Association. Music & Fun Along Main St. , between Prospect St & So Front St. For more information, please call 516-249-0093
SATURDAY, AUGUST 10
8:00 PM
IAC CONCERT IN THE PARK
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of NYS Parks At Heckscher State Park in East Islip. For more information, please call 631-888-3525, Isliparts.org
6:30 – 10:30
BRUMIDI’S SUMMER LUAU
Constantino Brumidi Lodge, 2075 Deer Park Ave in Deer Park, will be hosting a Summer Luau on Saturday August 10th. $45.00pp,
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 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Hawaiian Style Buffet Dinner, Beer, Wine & Soda Included, Hawaiian Entertainment, Raffles , Dancing and More. For Tickets call Angela: 631-225-9688 or Marianne 631-239-5036
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
AUGUST 10 & 11
Saturday 1OAM-9:30PM
Sunday 10AM-5PM
PAUMANAUKE POW WOW
The Paumanauke Native American Festival Inc., the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts, and The Town of Babylon present Paumanauke Pow Wow at Tanner Park in Copiague. Audience participation, Traditional Drums, Native Food, Dance Competitions, Quality Traders. For more information, please call BACCA Arts Center 631-587-3696
SUNDAY, AUGUST 11
11:00AM- 4:00PM
SPIRIT OF SUMMER ART FESTIVAL
Proudly hosted by the Spirit of Huntington, Long Island's Largest Non-Profit Art Festival. A day of fine art, community networking, food & dessert, raffles, games, activities and music! Rain Date: August 18th • FREE Admission. Located at 2 Melville Rd. N. in Huntington Station. For more information, please call 631-470-9620
MONDAY, AUGUST 12
7:00PM
LIGHTS OF HOPE
REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY
To honor loved ones lost to an overdose. YES Community Counseling Center’s Annual Lights of Hope Remembrance Ceremony is being held on Monday, August 12, 2024. The ceremony will be held at YES Community Counseling Center’s Levittown office located at 152 Center Lane. For more information, contact Kathleen Coletta, LCSW (516) 799-3203 x127 or email at kcoletta@ yesccc.org
MONDAY, AUGUST 12 -16
9:30AM- 12:30PM VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Community United Methodist Church is hosting a Vacation Bible School for ages 4-11. Children must be potty trained. $10 per child. CUMC is located at 100 Park Blvd. in Massapequa. For more information, or to register, please call 516-541-7008, or email: MASSAPCUMC@aol.com.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 13
11:00AM- 4:00PM
CLAM SHUCKING CONTEST
The West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition for Long Island, Inc. is hosting their 30th Annual Clam Shucking Contest at the Bay Shore Marina on South Clinton Ave. in Bay Shore. Beer • Wine • Soda • Food • 50/50 • Live Music • Dancing • Huge Chinese Auction. Plus: Corn Husking contest & face painting for kids. For more information, please call 631-669-7707
Town, Rocco’s Voice For Autism Unveil Inclusive Play Communication Boards In Parks
As part of the Town’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board partnered with Rocco’s Voice for Autism to install inclusive play communication boards in various town parks. These communication boards are designed to empower children with autism in their play experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and community while also helping children with autism develop their communication and social interaction skills.
“Rocco’s Voice for Autism is a truly inspiring organization working to ensure every child feels welcomed and included. The Town Board and I share this mission, which is why we’ve installed play communication boards in our town parks,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Communication boards create a universal language
for all children to play together – regardless of ability – and we welcome this opportunity to foster an understanding and compassionate environment.”
The communication boards feature symbols and images that facilitate nonverbal communication, enabling children with autism to express themselves more easily. This initiative aligns with Rocco’s Voice for Autism’s commitment to advocating for accessible and inclusive spaces for individuals with autism. Boards have been installed at the following Town facilities thanks to the generosity of the Warner Fund:
• Burns Park - Massapequa
• Allen Park – Farmingdale (2 Play Communication Boards)
• Marjorie Post ParkMassapequa
• Syosset Woodbury ParkSyosset
• TOBAY Spray Park -
TOBAY Beach
• TOBAY Marina - TOBAY Beach
• Plainview Old Bethpage Park - Plainview
• Theodore Roosevelt Park
- Oyster Bay
• Florence Avenue BeachMassapequa
• Haypath Park - Plainview
• Borella Field - Bethpage
• Tappen Beach - Glen Head
• Plainedge ParkMassapequa
• Field of DreamsMassapequa
“We are excited about the positive impact these communication boards will have on the lives of children with autism in our community,” said Town Clerk Rich LaMarca. “This partnership exemplifies our dedication to creating an inclusive environment where every child can thrive, and we thank Rocco’s Voice for Autism for their continued dedication to this important cause.”
INCLUSIVE PLAY COMMUNICATION BOARDS - As part of the Town’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board partnered with Rocco’s Voice for Autism to install inclusive play communication boards in various town parks.
From The Desk Of Mayor Ralph Ekstrand
We hope everyone is enjoying the summer & Congratulations to all Farmingdale and Long Island Graduates! The Village is in Full Bloom – hundreds of flowers were planted. Special thanks to Village Trustee Cheryl Parisi and all volunteers/beautification committee, DPW; truly spectacular and amazing efforts!
Enjoy the magnificent parks throughout the Village –Village Green, 5 Corners Park, Pocket Park, Gerngras Park and Bethpage State Park. And, the Town of Oyster Bay and Nassau County have superb pools, beaches and parks for residents to enjoy. Plus enjoy family fun summer events in the Village: movies, concert pops, farmers market, Music On Main, Kiwanis Craft Fair, Art In The Park - all are free to attend! For more details visit www.farmingdalevillage.com www.farmingdalebid.com, www.facebook.com/ farmingdale11735.
2025 Ryder Cup Coming To Farmingdale Village
2025 Ryder Cup Captain Keegan Bradley (and his wife Jillian) paid a courtesy visit to the Village of Farmingdale. The Village Fire Department will be providing emergency services during the September 2025 event at The Black Course at Bethpage State Park. I was thrilled to welcome Captain Bradley to meet with the Farmingdale Fire Department First Assistant Chief Tom Kelly, along with members of the Ambulance Squad and Fire Police. The anticipated daily attendance is expected to exceed 50,000 fans per day. We congratulate Keegan on his Captaincy and look forward to a great international event. Link to 2025 Ryder Cup website https://www.rydercup.com/2025. Photos courtesy of PGA TOUR
Lottery For The Sterling Green
A lottery for the Sterling Green at Farmingdale, a new affordable housing complex, was recently held at Village Hall by D&F Development. Sterling Green is located at 900 Fulton Street (Route 109) and 70 units were included in the lottery. https://hcr. ny.gov/ Photo courtesy of Marketing Masters NY
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.
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Girl Scouts Of Nassau County Announces First Annual Thin Mint Sprint 5K And
Girl Scouts of Nassau County (GSNC) announced today that their inaugural Thin Mint Sprint 5K Run and Family Fun Walk, will take place on Saturday, September 15th, 2024 at Jones Beach State Park on Field 1. This event will offer avid runners, walkers and families a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Jones Beach during Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend, all while raising money for the GSNC Family Partnership giving campaign.
“The Thin Mint Sprint has been something we’ve wanted to have for a while now, and we are excited to finally announce that registration is officially open!” said Rande Bynum, CEO of Girl Scouts Nassau County. “We hope that this event will inspire families
to gather in support of empowering the next generation of leaders as they enjoy the beauty of one of New York’s state parks. We hope to see this event become an annual funfilled tradition. Whether it is running in the 5K with friends, walking one mile with your family, or enjoying the activity fair, any participation will help provide girls with experiences that build courage, confidence and character.”
All proceeds from this event will benefit Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s Family Partnership giving campaign to ensure all girls can participate in Girl Scouting regardless of background or economic status to provide for membership fees, uniform components, books, badges
and supplies for girls in need.
August 25th, with the fee increasing afterwards.
The 5K Thin Mint Sprint is open to runners of all ages and will begin at 8:30 a.m. Registrants for the inperson option will receive a Thin Mint Sprint event t-shirt, Thin Mint Sprint finisher medal, Thin Mint Sprint race bib, a timing chip, entry into the family activity fair, and most importantly, a box of Girl Scout Cookies. Those who choose to participate virtually will receive a
The Thin Mint Sprint will help Girl Scouts of Nassau County continue their mission to help build a better world. By participating in the event, families will give girls the opportunity to discover their passions and make lifelong friendships through the Girl Scouts of Nassau County community.
To participate or become an event sponsor of the Thin Mint Sprint, please visit www.gsnc.org/thinmint-sprint.
For more information about Girl Scouts of Nassau County and the many events they hold throughout the year, or to join, volunteer, reconnect, or donate visit www.gsnc. org.
Thin Mint Sprint event t-shirt and a Thin Mint Sprint finisher medal via mail. Both options have a registration fee of $45 through August 25th, with the fee increasing afterwards. The Family Fun One Mile Walk is open to all ages and will begin at 9:30 a.m. Registrants will receive a Thin Mint Sprint event t-shirt, entry into the family activity fair, and of course, a box of Girl Scout Cookies. The fee for the family walk is $25 through
We are Girl Scouts:
Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs in Nassau County, across Long Island, and from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges— whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alum, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit www.gsnc.org.
Saladino And Blakeman Announce
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announce that incomeeligible adults aged 60 and over can now receive free $25 coupon booklets from the New York State Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). These coupons can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at authorized farmers’ markets and farm stands.
Carl Street, Hicksville. Coupons will be distributed on a first come, first served basis, with a limit of one booklet per person per year.
program and experience the health benefits of fresh, locally sourced produce,” added County Executive Blakeman.
Coupons can be used at the Country Fresh Farmingdale Farmers’ Market, located at Village Green, 316 Main Street, Farmingdale, open Sundays from 10 AM to 2 PM (June 4 - November 19), and at the Seaford Farmers’ Market, located at Seaford LIRR Parking Lot 3, Sunrise Hwy. & Washington St., open Saturdays from 7 AM to 12 PM (June 1 - November 23).
“By participating in this program, our seniors can enjoy the benefits of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, while supporting the local economy. I encourage all eligible seniors to take advantage of this wonderful
The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and Mobile Farm Stand are sponsored by the Nassau County Office for the Aging, the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets, the New York State Department of Health, the New York State Office for the Aging, and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
To find additional farmers’ markets participating in the SFMNP Coupon Program, please visit: https://agriculture. ny.gov/farmersmarkets. For more information, call the Nassau County Office for the Aging at (516) 2278900.
“We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for our senior residents,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is an excellent initiative that helps seniors maintain a healthy diet while enjoying the fresh produce our local markets have to offer. It is important for us to provide opportunities that support the well-being of our older adults, and this program does just that by making nutritious food more accessible.”
The $25 Farmers’ Market coupon distribution will take place on Thursday, August 8th from 10 AM to 12 PM at the North Massapequa Community Center, located at 214 North Albany Ave., North Massapequa, and on Monday, August 12th from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Hicksville Community Center, located at 28 West
Women’s Club Of Farmingdale Supports The Over The Hill Gang Softball League Fundraiser For Farmingdale School District Band Bus Crash Victims
The Over the Hill Gang Softball League held its Annual Fundraiser – Bash for the Band - on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Ellsworth Allen Community Park in Farmingdale. A large turnout, with tables of raffles and gift bags/gift cards, secured a very successful evening. Refreshments,
including pizza, heroes, and ice cream, face painting and live music generously donated for the past 7 years by The Suburban Brothers Band supported the “We are Daler Strong” theme.
The Over the Hill Gang Charity’s goal is to provide financial assistance to local families whose lives
and livelihoods have been impacted by tragedy and hardship, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to recipients. Since the charity’s inception 48 years ago, they have raised and distributed more than half a million dollars to local families in their time of need.
On September 22, 2023,
a catastrophic bus crash claimed the lives of two longtime Farmingdale High School teachers, Bea Ferrari and Gina Pellettiere. The bus was carrying 40 members of the FHS marching band enroute to band camp in PA. Several students were seriously injured and all the band students have endured
Tina Diamond
emotional trauma since the accident.
All proceeds from this fundraiser event will be gifted to the students who were involved. As of now, several thousand dollars was raised.
Members of the Women’s Club of Farmingdale were on hand to present a $125 check to Kevin Brosnan, President
of the OTHG League, and members David Chametzky and Jim Loughlin. Anyone interested can check out The Suburban Brothers Band at suburbanbrothersband through Google or Facebook. Submitted by Maria Ortolani, WCF Publicity Chair
L-R: Anna Ievolo, Rosemary Emigholz, Kevin Brosnan, Pres OTHG,
L-R: Anna Ievolo, Rosemary Emigholz, David Chametzky, Jim Loughlin, Tina Diamond
L-R: Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, 15th AD, and Dave Chametzky, Charity Board Member, OTHG Fundraiser Chairman.
After a summer of relaxation, the start of a new school year generates mixed emotions among students. Many children look forward to being back on campus with their friends but may not revel in the idea of waking up early or doing homework each night.
While summer break is a much needed-respite from the rigors of school, it doesn’t mean school should be forgotten entirely. In fact, doing some preparatory steps before a new school year begins can make the year go much more smoothly. Here’s how students and parents can direct their focus during the final countdown.
Keep reading
According to
Start Preparing For School Now
Scholastic, summer slide is a concept that was first acknowledged by researchers in 1996. Many comprehensive studies have come out since then and indicated that kids lose significant knowledge in reading and math over summer break, which can have a cumulative effect and lead to skill loss each year. Some research says up to 20 percent of school year gains in reading and 27 percent in math are lost during summer break. Children should be encouraged to read as much as possible during summer break, particularly since many schools require summer reading and subsequent essays or book reports upon returning to the classroom. Let kids read what they want, whether
it’s comics, magazines, the newspaper, or even books they’ve read before.
Accumulate supplies
School may not be on the radar early in summer, but it’s wise to purchase supplies early. Right before school starts there is a mad dash to grab notebooks, pens, clothing, and more, which can make for a stressful shopping experience for all involved. Shopping early helps families avoid that
outcome.
Brush up on math skills
It can’t hurt for students to do a few math problems over the summer. Practice keeps skills fresh and any mathematical formulas prominent in their minds. All it takes is one or two problems per day to stay on top of math skills.
Visit educational attractions
Families can include museums, art exhibits, animal sanctuaries,
libraries, science centers, and similar attractions in the list of places they visit over the summer. This way students can learn and be entertained simultaneously.
Start
enforcing bedtimes
School-aged children (six to 13 years) need nine to 12 hours of sleep every night, according to KidsHealth.org. During the summer, late nights can easily be rectified by sleeping in the next
day. But when school resumes, the alarm clock will be ringing earlier than expected. Parents can gradually implement earlier bedtimes as summer winds down so that kids are getting the rest they will need. Get in the know
Parents can begin to pay closer attention to emails and social media posts from schools as they’ll likely contain information about upcoming school calendars, bus routes (or transportation registration), changes in personnel, or any additional updates. This will help alleviate any surprises on the first day of school.
Families can take several steps to get ready for school as the first day draws near.
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