April 10, 2024 Islip

Tips To Revitalize A Garden This Spring

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.

Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Support Group On Zoom

diagnosed with breast cancer within the past 18-months. The group, which is free, will provide the opportunity for people to meet with others, and receive support. Sessions will be held on Thursdays from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. on Zoom for 6 weeks from May 2nd through June 6, 2024. For more information and to register, call Nina Foley, LMSW at (516) 877-4315.

Healthcare Coverage

(NAPSI)—Adults ages 19 to 34 have the highest uninsured rates of any age group in the United States. Fortunately, GetCovered, powered by HealthMarkets, is a free service that provides guidance for graduates in need of healthcare coverage—by phone at 877-270-0029 or online at getcovered.com/graduate.

The Adelphi New York Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program offers emotional support and resources to people with and/or concerned about breast cancer. To reach the Hotline, which is staffed by volunteers who are breast cancer survivors, call 800877-8077 or online at breast-cancer.adelphi.edu. You are not alone.

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Sunday, May 5, 2024

Belmont Lake State Park TAKE

11:00am Event Start

12:15pm Dedication Ribbon Ceremony

Join us as we bring to life the IBD Journey for patients, caregivers, and supporters. Take Steps with us to fundraise and make a difference in the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s path to cure Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Long Island STEPS

REGISTER VOLUNTEER

SHERWOOD’S YOUNG WRITERS IN ISLIP - Islip’s Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School recently held its second writing celebration of the year. During the workshop, students learned the importance of having a growth mindset, how to focus on “process over product,” and shared their work with classmates, teachers, support staff, special area teachers, literacy coaches, administrators and even the school nurse. “We are very proud of all students from grades 2 through 5, and were thrilled to have fifth grade parents join us for our celebration,” Principal Briana James said. “We are truly a community of readers and writers, and these special writing celebrations are a great way to show it.” Photo courtesy of Islip School District

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.

Honey Bee Class - April 28th at Noon

Herbal Healing Walk - April 28th at 10:30am

Gardening Classes (10:30am) - April 20 • May 4 • May 18

Classes are $15 Per Person - Visit organicstodayfarms.com for more information.

Maintaining A Lawn Routinely

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.

Legislator Donnelly: Suffolk County Offers Employment Programs For Residents

Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) would like to inform residents about the Suffolk County’s special employment-readiness programs to assist those seeking a job or a new career.

According to Legislator Donnelly, the Suffolk County Department of Labor has a mulitude of resources to assist residents in their job searches through its One-Stop Employment Center. Among the innovative and award-winning services available are Job Fairs, held at convenient locations throughout the County,

and Suffolk County's OneStop Employment Center in Hauppauge which offers workshops, job placement assistance, resume preparation and career counseling. For more information on upcoming Job Fairs or any of these services please visit suffolkcountyny.gov/labor

or call (631) 853-6600.

In addition, Suffolk County administers the Civil Service exams. Residents seeking to obtain information about Civil Service job vacancies and examination dates can visit suffolkcountyny.gov/ civilservice. To receive job listings directly from

Legislator Donnelly’s office, please email suffolkdo17@ gmail.com to be included.

“The Job Fairs, OneStop Employment Center and Civil Service exams provide County residents with a myriad of ways to jumpstart or change their careers. I urge everyone to take advantage of these

opportunities to help chart or find a new course,” said Legislator Donnelly. “I am happy that Suffolk County can offer programs to make it much easier for residents to obtain employment, and I wish everyone the best of luck in their searches.”

National Doctors Day Celebrated

NATIONAL DOCTORS DAY CELEBRATED - Doctors at South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore were recognized for the tough job they do every day with care, compassion and committed professionalism on the occasion of National Doctors Day, Saturday, March 30th. Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter joined with representatives of Fellow Health Partners to distribute pint-sized donuts, paying tribute to the hard-working men and women who care for residents across Long Island.

A Rundown On DIY Demos HOME & GARDEN

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.

MILO

7 year old male Terrier mix, modest and mild mannerd. Loves to go on walks.

ARIEL

Very friendly adult female who would make a good companion.

REDFORD

Adult male. Beautiful, sweet and gentle.

LYRIC & SUSAN

Sweet young females who get along with other cats.

PRESLEY

Cute and playful male kitten, his favorite song is “Blue Suede Shoes.”

2-3 year old female. Bundle of energy and enthusiasm, with a playful nature. PRINCE 8 year old male. Playful, outgoing, affectionate and very friendly.

PRINCE

Handsome friendly male kitten, who wants to be a “King.”

Adult female. Sweet girl who is a happy lovebug, prefers to be the only pet. MARCIA

VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY - The Town of Islip is honored to join our community in observing National Vietnam War Veterans Day on March 29th. This day holds immense significance as it marks the anniversary of the day in 1973 when the last American troops were withdrawn from Vietnam, putting an end to one of the longest wars in U.S. history. In 2017, President Trump signed into law the recognition of this day as an annual day of observance, ensuring that the sacrifices made by our brave Vietnam veterans are never forgotten.

Environmental Scholarships

The South Shore Audubon Society is offering two $1,000 scholarships for College juniors, seniors, or graduate students earning a degree in the areas of biological or environmental science. This includes wildlife management, forestry, animal behavior, ecology, marine biology, oceanography, mammalogy, ornithology or the field of sustainable and renewable energy. Previous winners have used their scholarships to help purchase books, to pay for travel expenses to field sites, for specialized equipment or other educational needs.

To be eligible for the Scholarships, applicants must be residents of one of the areas listed at www.ssaudubon.org/areas-we-

serve.asp and/or attend a college in Nassau or Suffolk County. One scholarship is funded by Evelyn Bishop and her family, and one is funded by Jay Koolpix

Applications are available at the South Shore Audubon website, www.ssaudubon.org or by contacting Professor Betsy Gulotta at 516-546-8841, Betsy. Gulotta@ncc.edu. Applications are due by April 30, 2024, and should be emailed to either Betsy Gulotta, or Betty Borowsky, bborow@optonline.net, or sent by regular mail to Betsy Gulotta, 2 Anding Ave, Merrick, NY 11566. For more information and for assistance with application forms, do not hesitate to contact Betsy Gulotta or Betty Borowsky at the email addresses above.

TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

CALL 631-226-2636 EXT. 276

Sharp Shooter Competition Breaks All-Time Record

Congratulations to the participants and winners of the Annual Town of Islip Sharp Shooter competition. This year’s event broke previous and set new records in the history of the competition.

4th Grade Boys

1st Place: Carter Carey

Edith L. Slocum Elementary School, Connetquot

Score: 53 points Broke all time high score and set a new Sharp Shooter high score

2nd Place: Kelson Kenny

Cherry Avenue Elementary School, Sayville

Score: 43 points Broke the all time high score

3rd Place: David Caselnova

South County Elementary School, Bay Shore

Score: 37 points

5th Grade Boys

1st Place: Kailum Broomfield

South County Elementary School, Bay Shore

Score: 45 points Tied all time high score

2nd Place: Dean Ricci Academy Street Elementary School, Bayport-Blue Point

Score: 44 points

3rd Place: Justin Wilson Southeast Elementary School, Brentwood

Score: 35 points

4th Grade Girls

1st Place: Madelynn Plante

Helen B. Duffield Elementary School, Connetquot

Score: 37 points

2nd Place: Dylan Bliss Manetuck Elementary School, West Islip

Score: 27 points

3rd Place: Anna Golden Edward J. Bosti Elementary School, Connetquot

Score: 25 points

5th Grade Girls

1st Place: Kelly Pitt Commack Road Elementary School, Islip

Score: 32 points Won 2nd year in a row. Won in 2023 as a 4th grader

2nd Place: Avery Tracy Sunrise Drive Elementary School, Sayville

Score: 31 points

3rd Place: Ivy Beckles Southwest Elementary School, Brentwood Score: 26 points

Kelly Pitt 5th grade girls may be the first-ever back-to-back 1st Place Winner in the history of the Sharp Shooter event. Town officials searched previous records dating back to the late 90’s, and could not find another player to achieve this amazing accomplishment!

Congratulations Kelly!

Everyone loves a good, old-fashioned yard sale. The people of the Islip United Methodist Church, 350 Main Street, Islip, especially love yard sales! For the past ten years, the members of the Methodist

Church have held a huge, church-wide garage sale to raise money for their various mission projects. This year, their Annual Spring Yard Sale will be held on April 27th from 10- 2 at the Islip United Methodist Church 350 Main Street, Islip. There will be lots of items available. Just think about the treasures that might be found. The church Thrift Shop will also be open from 10 – 2