May 22, 2024 Islip

Islip Spring Senior Advocate Schedule

Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is pleased to inform Islip residents about the local Suffolk County Office for the Aging Spring 2024 Senior Advocate Schedule. Senior advocates are County representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications

and referrals to appropriate community agencies.

“This is an excellent chance for senior citizens to get the assistance and information they need by connecting with the County’s senior advocates right in their own communities,”

said Legislator Donnelly. “I hope all those interested in the services that the Suffolk County Office for the Aging provides will take advantage

of this opportunity.”

In the coming months,

Senior Advocates will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Islip:

• Bishop McGann Housing, 200 Bishop McGann Drive, Central Islip: Monday, June 24, 10 am – 12 pm

• Brentwood Senior Nutrition, 16 Second Avenue, Brentwood: Monday, June 24, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

• East Islip Library, 381 E. Main Street, East Islip: Monday, June 10, 10 am –12 pm

• St. Anne’s Gardens, 80100 2nd Avenue, Brentwood: Friday, June 7, 8:30 – 11 am

• West Islip Senior Center, 90 Higbie Lane, West Islip: Thursday, June 13, 10 am –12 pm

Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

(SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare, answer questions and make recommendations and referrals. For more information about available services or directions to any of these locations, please call the Suffolk County Office for

the Aging at (631) 853-8200.

“For more than three decades, the Suffolk County Office for the Aging has been providing full and trouble-free access to critical services,” Donnelly said. “I am glad to see their great professional community outreach program continue and hope that every senior resident will make full use of it.”

Town, KIC, South Shore Hospital

This

The annual cleanup of Spur Drive South from Brentwood Road to 5th Avenue recently kicked-off with dozens of volunteers turning out to get involved. This year, South Shore University Hospital and the Town of Islip came together to partner with the Islip Chamber of

Commerce Beautification Committee and KIC (Keep Islip Clean).

For the past 12 years, this collaborative effort has aimed to beautify and restore the cleanliness of our beloved community.

“We are fortunate here in the Town of Islip that residents take tremendous

pride in the communities they call home, and devote their free time to beautification efforts,” said Islip Town Supervisor, Angie Carpenter.

Edward Fraser, Vice President of the Islip Chamber of Commerce, expressed the urgency of the cleanup, stating, “There

is just so much garbage along this road as I travel it each day, unfortunately, this is indicative of many roadways across our Town, County, and State.

The Town of Islip under the leadership of Angie Carpenter and the Suffolk County Police, along with KIC, have always been

great partners in this cleanup, however, it takes the whole community working together to effect meaningful change.

This cleanup initiative aims to not only remove litter, but also to identify structural issues such as fallen fences and trees. It’s an opportunity for

the community to come together and take pride in their surroundings,” said Fraser.

Fraser emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “We hope that this cleanup helps raise awareness, and brings everyone together to better our community.”

TEAM-UP TO CLEAN-UP - The annual cleanup of Spur Drive South from Brentwood Road to 5th Avenue recently kicked-off with dozens of volunteers turning out to get involved.

year, South Shore University Hospital and the Town of Islip came together to partner with the Islip Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee and KIC (Keep Islip Clean).

Earth Day Poster Contest Winners Celebrated At Town Hall

Spectacular

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3 - 7:00PM-9:00PM

Celebrate with us and enjoy live music and a delicious dinner buffet. The evening ends with a dramatic fireworks display glistening on the breathtaking Long Island Sound.

PRICING:

Non-Members $84.00 plus tax

Members $75.60 plus tax

Prices include gratuity. ID required upon check-in.

Reservations required via www.instantseats.com.

Search Waterview select tickets and select your table seating. (Rain date Friday 7.5.2024)

LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP

Proudly Serving The Community Since 1953

PUBLISHER

Jeff Lambert

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Patty Franks

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Josh Marlowe

MANAGING

EDITOR

Felicia Edwards

MARKETING MANAGER

Noelle Lambert

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

Joe Lambert

Edward Rodriguez

ADMINISTRATION

Teri Tinkler

Diana Lambert

Dorrine Lambert

ADMIN & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Natalie Raccuglia

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Victoria Kokolakis

Stephan Schulze

PROOFREADING

Kerry Mastrobuoni

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVES

Carol Link

Bob Liquorie

Nicole Sims

Kim Volz

Bonnie Schifano

Lucille Moran

Terry Rydyzynski

Noelle Lambert

Kathy Trotta

SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter celebrated the achievements of six young students from across the Township who participated and won the 4th Annual Earth Day Poster Contest, cosponsored by Reworld Waste, formerly Covanta. This year, nearly 180 students participated in the contest, utilizing their creativity to spotlight knowledge of recycling and share its importance throughout our community. Prizes included Barnes and Noble gift cards, Nook tablets and more, all provided by Reworld Waste. The winning posters are currently on display at Town Hall West in the DEC’s 3rd floor display case.

“As we celebrate the fourth year of our Earth Day Poster Contest, I am continually inspired by the creativity and environmental awareness demonstrated by our young participants,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “These students not only showcase their artistic talents but also their deep understanding of the

importance of recycling and sustainability. By providing them with this creative outlet, we nurture their passion for protecting our planet and empower them to become the eco-conscious leaders of tomorrow,” added the Supervisor.

The poster contest helps drive the Town’s commitment to fostering sustainability. In addition to facilitating the Earth Day Poster Contest initiative, Recycling Educator Danielle Wynn presents recycling demonstrations to local schools throughout the year. She also provides guided tours of the Multipurpose Recycling Facility, offering students valuable insight into the recycling process and cultivating a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship among the Town’s youth.

Joining Supervisor Carpenter to honor the winning students included DEC Commissioner Marty Bellew, Recycling Educator Danielle Wynn, Reworld’s Lead Community Affair Specialist Maureen Early and faculty members from the students’ schools.

This year’s winners include:

Grades 1-4 Winners

First Place:

Camden Dobbins

3rd Grader at Paul J. Bellew Elementary School

Prize: Nook Tablet and a $250 Gift Certificate for the school.

Second Place: Natalie Palm

1st Grader at Helen B. Duffield Elementary

Prize: $75 Barnes & Noble Gift Certificate

Third Place: Ava Figueroa

4th Grader at Cordello

Avenue Elementary Prize: $50 Barnes & Noble Gift Certificate

Grades 5-8 Winners

First Place: Rachel Rodriguez

8th Grader at Brentwood East Middle School

Prize: Nook Tablet and a $250 Gift Certificate for the school.

Second Place: Dayana Nicole Zuniga

Garcia

7th Grader at Brentwood East Middle School

Prize: $75 Barnes & Noble Gift Certificate

Third Place: Ogechukuka Ebinumz

7th Grader at Ralph G. Reed Middle School

Prize: $50 Barnes & Noble Gift Certificate

EARTH

DAY POSTER CONTEST

WINNERS

-Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter celebrated the achievements of six young students from across the Township who participated and won the 4th Annual Earth Day Poster Contest, co-sponsored by Reworld Waste, formerly Covanta. This year, nearly 180 students participated in the contest, utilizing their creativity to spotlight knowledge of recycling and share its importance throughout our community. Prizes included Barnes and Noble gift cards, Nook tablets and more, all provided by Reworld Waste. The winning posters are currently on display at Town Hall West in the DEC’s 3rd floor display case.

handling etiquette MEMORIAL DAY

The United States flag was first imagined after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The Continental Congress authorized creation of the first national flag on June 14, 1777. It was decided that the flag should have 13 stripes, alternating red and white, to represent the original 13 colonies, and that the new union be represented by 13 white stars in a blue field to signify a “new constellation.” Francis Hopkinson, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, is most often credited with the original design.

Today there are 50 stars on the flag to represent the 50 states, while the 13 stripes still represent the 13 British colonies that became the first states. While this may be common knowledge, Public Law 94-344, known as the Federal Flag Code, may not be as widely known. The code dictates that the flag is to be treated with respect and proper etiquette. The code is extensive, but the following guidelines can help private individuals interested in displaying their flags to do so in accordance with the law.

· Flags should only be displayed in public from sunrise to sunset, unless the flag can be properly illuminated during darkness. In this instance, it may be displayed at all times.

· When displayed with other flags, such as on a single staff or lanyard, the U.S. flag should be above all other flags. If flags are displayed in a row, the U.S. flag goes to the observer’s left.

· State and local flags are traditionally flown lower than the American flag.

· During marching ceremonies or parades with other flags, the U.S. flag should be to the observer’s left.

· The flag should be displayed at every public institution and at schools during school days.

· When displayed vertically and not on a staff, the union should be on the left when observed. It should be suspended so its folds fall freely as though the flag were staffed.

· The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

· The flag is often displayed at halfstaff on days of mourning, including Memorial Day. The flag should first be hoisted to the peak for an instant, then lowered to half-staff position, which is half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff.

· On a vehicle, the U.S. flag should be displayed from a staff firmly fixed to the chassis. It should not be draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle.

· The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water, or merchandise. It also should never have anything placed on it.

· A flag in poor condition should be destroyed with dignity, preferably by burning. Most American Legion posts and local Boy Scouts troops will have the resources to retire flags accordingly. Many will host annual flag retirement ceremonies on Flag Day.

May Happenings

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

7:00PM-8:00PM

SOUL WITH HEART BOOK CLUB

Held at Freeport Memorial Library. This is a free event. To attend in person, please register by visiting www.freeportlibrary.info and click on the date of the program in the event calendar. To attend virtually, visit the date of the program in the event calendar and click on the link provided. For more information call the library at 516-379-3274.

FRIDAY, MAY 24

9:00PM

2000S RAVE

Party like it's 2003 at Mulcahy's Pub & Concert Hall in Wantagh, featuring DG GrooveCube and Synova. Doors and show start at 9pm. For more information, please call Mulcahy's at 516-783-7500 or email them at info@mulcahys.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 25

9:00AM-3:00PM

SPRING YARD SALE

The Yaphank Historical Society will hold our annual multi-vendor Spring Yard Sale on the grounds of the Robert & Isabella Hawkins House at 4 Yaphank Avenue, Yaphank There will be a large variety of crafts, collectibles, and household items. Rain date is Sunday, the 26th. For more information please email jrvavrina@optonline.net.

12:00PM-4:00PM

SPRING FARM FESTIVAL

The Smithtown Historical Society is hosting a Spring Farm Festival. There will be kids crafts, pony rides and petting zoo, live music, traditional craft demonstrations, historic farmhouse tour, food and

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.

craft vendors, face-painting, and more. Rain date on May 26th. Leashed dogs welcome. General admission is $7, kids under 3 free. For more information please call 631-265-6768 or visit their website at www.smithtownhistorical.org.

12:30PM

BARK IN THE PARK LI DUCKS

Bark in the Park returns to Fairfield Properties Ballpark. The game takes place at 1:35 p.m. against the Lancaster Stormers, with the ballpark gates opening at 12:35 (12:20 for full season ticket holders). All fans are invited to bring their dog with them to the ballpark to enjoy the game. No additional ticket purchase is required to take part in Bark in the Park. To purchase tickets visit www.liducks.com/bark and see a full list of rules for pets and their owners.

SUNDAY, MAY 26

9:00AM-12:00PM

RUN FOR BRIGGS 5K RUN/WALK

Technical Sergeant Dashan Briggs made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the 106th NYS Air National Guard unit as a Special Missions Aviator in Western Iraq in 2018 when his HH-60 Pavehawk helicopter crashed. The foundation was created to honor his legacy by supporting future generations. All proceeds from this event will go to the Dashan J. Briggs Memorial Foundation. The race begins at Burman Blvd. in Calverton. For more information call 516-531-3323.

5:00PM-6:30PM

FAMILY FILM SERIES

The Suffolk in Riverhead will be playing Shrek. Featuring kid-friendly

food and drink menu. Tickets are $15. Doors open at 4:30pm. Showtime is at 5pm. For more information call 631-727-4343 or visit www.thesuffolk.org.

MONDAY, MAY 27

8:00AM-12:00PM

MEMORIAL DAY FREEDOM 5K

Held at Chester A. Reese Veterans Memorial Park in Malverne. Parking will be available on the opposite side of the train tracks in the commuter train lot next to Conolly Station Pub. $35 for the 5K Run/Walk, $15 for Fun Run (ages 12 and under). For more information please call 516-531-3323.

9:00AM

ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Join Sgt. John Sardiello Post 1634 of the American Legion as they pay their respect to fallen veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us free. Memorial Service and Wreath Ceremony to follow Community Picnic immediately following the ceremony. Held in West Babylon. Everyone is welcome. For more information please call them at 631-669-3931.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

12:00PM-5:00PM

ANTIQUE VINTAGE BOOK SALE

The Friends of the West Islip Library is doing a Vintage & Antique Book Sale on May 31st and June 1st from 9am-2pm. Held at the West Islip Public Library, 3 Higbie Lane. There will be a wide variety of books, including history, biographies, general fiction, children's literature, classics, and more. For more information call 631-206-4206.

What Families Can Do To Honor Fallen Veterans

The freedoms people living in the United States are afforded would not have been possible to provide if not for the brave efforts and undying commitment of the many individuals who have served in the nation’s armed forces. American military personnel have played vital roles in securing freedoms for their fellow citizens as well as individuals overseas. Each year on the final Monday in May, the United States commemorates military personnel who lost their lives while serving in the armed forces. Those individuals made the ultimate sacrifice, and Memorial Day is a way to honor them and thank their families for their selfless acts. This Memorial Day, families can embrace various measures to honor fallen veterans.

• Visit a local veterans cemetery. The United Service Organization

(USO) notes that most states have national veterans cemeteries. Though some veterans cemeteries are open only to family members of service personnel, others are open to the general public. Visiting a veterans cemetery is a great way to honor fallen military members and ensure the memory of their service and sacrifice is not forgotten on Memorial Day.

• Celebrate veterans over Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day weekend is now synonymous with getaways and backyard barbecues. By taking time out during the weekend to honor fallen veterans, families can ensure the meaning behind the holiday is not lost in the midst of celebrations with family and friends. Take time out during a family barbecue to discuss a family member who served or, if traveling,

make an effort to visit a veterans memorial along your travel route.

• Help raise funds for veterans organizations. Fun runs or community Memorial Day walks may benefit local veterans organizations that help service members in need. Many service members may need help dealing with the deaths of friends or family members who died while serving in the armed forces, and veterans organizations may provide such help or direct funds to groups that do. That makes participation in events that benefit veterans organizations a great way to honor current military personnel and those who have served in the past, including those who died in service of their country.

• Teach youngsters about the role of the armed forces. There’s

a lot competing for the attention of today’s young people, and that can make it easy to overlook the very freedoms that make the United States such a unique country throughout world history. Parents and

guardians can emphasize the role the armed forces play in procuring and protecting freedoms in the United States and emphasize the significance of the sacrifices of those who gave their lives to ensure a higher

quality of life for all U.S. residents. Memorial Day commemorates military personnel who died while serving in the armed forces. There is much families can do to ensure those sacrifices are never forgotten or taken for granted.

Islip High School hosted the school’s first Choose to Include day on April 18, held in conjunction with Autism Awareness Month and the Special Olympics. Choose to Include is a Special Olympics movement that fosters awareness of differences and celebrates inclusivity through sports and beyond;

Islip High School now has both Unified bowling and Unified basketball teams.

Islip’s Choose to Include fair, held in the student lounge and organized by teacher Melissa Horn and her functional academics students, brought awareness to a multitude of disabilities. Students and staff

participated in challenges and simulations of these disabilities while attempting to complete everyday tasks. The event also included a fundraiser to support a scholarship for a special needs student in honor of one of Horn’s students who passed away this school year.

first Choose to Include day on April 18, which brought awareness to a multitude of disabilities. Photo courtesy of Islip School District

10 Healthy Aging Tips For Older Americans Month This May

Alzheimer’s Foundation Of America Offers Lifestyle Choices That Promote Healthy Aging & Help Reduce Dementia Risk

As part of Older Americans Month this May, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is offering 10 steps for healthy aging so that older adults can be proactive about their brain health.

“As we honor and celebrate the older adults who are a vital, vibrant part of our communities during National Older Americans Month, we also want to help them to be proactive about their brain health, because the risk of developing dementia increases with age,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s Director of Educational and Social Services. “Empowering older adults with information about positive, brain-healthy lifestyle choices they can make will go a long way to helping them remain active members of our society for years to come.”

AFA encourages individuals to follow these ten steps for healthy aging:

1. Eat Well- Adopt a lowfat diet high on fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, blueberries, and broccoli. Take daily vitamins. Limit intake of red meats, fried and processed foods, salt, and sugar. In general, foods that are “heart healthy” are also “brain healthy.”

2. Stay Active- Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and can also help improve mood and general well-being. Brisk walking benefits brain health; aerobic exercise boosts your heart rate; weight training builds strength and flexibility.

3. Learn New ThingsLearning new things exercises and strengthens your brain. Taking a class, trying a new activity, or engaging in any new cognitive pursuit causes your brain to think

outside of its normal routine and provides cognitive stimulation. Even something as simple as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand stimulates the brain.

4. Get Enough SleepGetting consistent sleep every night is key; at least seven to nine hours is ideal. Having a good sleep environment is also helpful. Make sure you do low-key activities before getting into bed so you are not overstimulated. Avoid caffeinated drinks close to your bedtime. Insomnia can have serious physical effects and negatively affect memory and thinking.

5. Mind Your MedsMedication can affect everyone differently, especially as you age. When getting a new medication or something you have not taken recently, (whether over the counter or prescription), consult with your doctor or local pharmacist.

6. Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol- Smoking can increase the risk of other serious illnesses, while too much alcohol can impair judgment and cause accidents, including falls, broken bones, and car crashes.

7. StayConnected-Prolonged social isolation and loneliness are detrimental to your health, and can increase the risk of a number of different health conditions, including dementia-related illnesses, heart disease, and stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Spending time with loved ones and friends, participating in group activities, and getting involved in local community groups are all ways of connecting with

other people, keeping your brain active, and helping you feel more engaged with the world around you.

8. Know Your Blood Pressure- Blood pressure can affect your cognitive functioning. Visit your physician regularly to check your blood pressure and make sure it is within normal range.

9. See Your DoctorMaintain checkups. Health screenings are key to managing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, all of which can impact brain health. Speak with your physician about any health-related concerns or questions you have.

10. Get a Memory ScreeningMemory impairments are not a normal part of aging; they can be caused by a number of different conditions. Because of this, early detection of memory impairments is essential. Memory screenings are quick, noninvasive screenings that should be part of everyone’s health and wellness routine, even if you’re not currently experiencing memory issues. AFA offers free virtual memory screenings every weekday, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites—visit www.alzfdn.org or call AFA at 866-232-8484 for information about getting a free virtual memory screening. Individuals wishing to learn more about healthy aging and promoting good brain health can contact the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Helpline at 866-232-8484 or visit AFA’s website, www.alzfdn.org.

Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is pleased to again join Long Island Cares and help it “rain food for cats and dogs” by hosting a pet food drive now through the end of May.

Pet Food Drive For Baxter’s Pet Pantry

Legislator Donnelly’s district office is serving as a drop-off location for the 13th Legislative Pet Food Drive where muchneeded pet food and supplies will be collected

to benefit Baxter’s Pet Pantry of Long Island Cares (www.licares. org). In previous years, constituents of the 17th Legislative District have generously donated to this annual drive.

All donations go directly to Baxter’s Pantry. While 5 and 10 pound bags of dog and cat food, canned food, kitty litter and new pet toys are most needed, all pet nourishments are welcome including food for hamsters, fish, birds and ferrets. Items may be dropped off at Legislator Donnelly’s District Office, located at 130

Tell Us

About It!

Let us know about your honors, awards, promotions and other announcements. They are always welcome. Photos can be emailed as well. Send them to editorial@ longislandmediagroup.com.

West Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station, Monday through Thursday between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm until May 31. As per health code requirements, all pet food must be unopened and in original packaging. For more information or to make an appointment to donate outside of these hours, call (631) 8544433.

“Hard times impact all members of the family, including our animal companions,” said Legislator Donnelly. “Families shouldn’t have to decide between feeding themselves and feeding their beloved pets. I am happy to partner with Long Island cares again on this important and much needed cause.”

Masonr y JAG MASONRY & LANDS CAPING

Pavers, Patios, Drivew ays, Stoops, Cultured Stone Pool Areas, Etc! Free Estimates. Reasonabl e Prices & Reliable! Lic ensed & Insure d Lic. #59023-H References Avail abl e! Se Necesitan Albaniles Con O Algo De Experiencia.

Long Island Water Conference Hosts 36th Annual Drinking Water Tasting Contest

Public Encouraged To Taste, Vote And Learn About The Water Delivered To Their Homes

In honor of National Drinking Water Week, the Long Island Water Conference (LIWC) hosted its 36th annual drinking water tasting contest at Farmingdale State College from Tuesday, May 7 to Wednesday, May 8. 14 water providers from across Long Island vied for the title of best drinking water in Nassau County and Suffolk County, respectively.

“Our annual drinking water tasting contest is one of the most exciting times of year for us,” said LIWC Chairman Jason Belle. “It not only serves as a fun, friendly competition between our many water providers, but it affords us the opportunity to engage with the residents whom we serve and help them understand just how much work goes into providing them with high-

quality water every day.”

More than 240 participants voted for their favorite tasting water and received exciting giveaways. In addition, LIWC representatives educated attendees on the water delivered to the homes and answered questions on the treatment methods maintaining Long Island’s high-quality drinking water.

This year’s winners

were the Bayville Water Department for Nassau County and the Suffolk County Water Authority for Suffolk County. For emerging triumphant with the best tasting drinking water, these water providers hold onto the coveted trophy for a year and win bragging rights among their fellow providers. They will also participate in the New York State Regional Metro

Tap Water Taste Contest held in New York City in early August to compete for entry into the statewide contest held at the Great New York State Fair.

About the Long Island Water Conference

The LIWC has been committed to providing pure and plentiful water for the Long Island community since 1951.

The LIWC represents over 50 water suppliers

regionally and aims to provide and maintain an adequate and safe water supply today, while anticipating the water concerns of future generations. LIWC members provide more than 375 million gallons of clean water daily. For more information, please visit www.liwc.org.