July 17, 2024 Islip by Long Island Media Group

Ryan Flad Wins Rensselaer Medal

East Islip High School

junior Ryan Flad was named the winner of this year’s Rensselaer Medal, which recognizes excellent academic achievement and serves to inspire students pursuing careers in engineering, science and technology.

Founded in 1824, the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, is the oldest technological institution in North America. For more than 100 years, it has awarded the Rensselaer Medal to exemplary high school juniors who excel in the areas of math and science. This merit scholarship has a value of $120,000 and is guaranteed for four years for each medalist who applies, is accepted and enrolls at Rensselaer.

“Ryan is an incredibly dedicated and hardworking young man who is looking to pursue a degree in chemical/ nuclear engineering,” said

RYAN FLAD WINS RENSSELAER MEDAL - East

Islip High School junior Ryan Flad was named the winner of this year’s Rensselaer Medal. Photo courtesy of East Islip School District

Chris Boehler, his school counselor. “I am extremely proud that Ryan was selected for this prestigious award and know he will

continue to work diligently to maintain the high academic and career goals set forth by this talented student.”

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Islip Summer 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 Summer 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.

“It is so important for us to provide our senior citizens with the assistance and information they need in ways that are most convenient to them. These visits allow our seniors to connect with our 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.”

This summer, Senior

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

• Bay Shore Library, 1 S. Country Road, Brightwaters: Fridays, July 19 & September 20, 10 am – 12 pm

• Bishop McGann Housing, 200 Bishop McGann Drive, Central Islip: Mondays, July 22, August 26 & September 30, 10 am – 12 pm

• Brentwood Senior Nutrition, 16 Second Avenue, Brentwood: Mondays, July 22, August 19 & September 23, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

• Connetquot Library, 760 Ocean Avenue, Bohemia: Thursday, September 12, 10 am – 12 pm

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

• Islip Library, 71 Monell Avenue, Islip: Monday September 16, 10 am – 12 pm

• St. Anne’s Gardens, 80100 2nd Avenue, Brentwood:

Friday, August 2, 8:30 – 11 am

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.”

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JULY HAPPENINGS

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Art League Of Long Island Launches Summer Pre-College Portfolio Program For Aspiring Artists

The Art League of Long Island is excited to announce its Annual Summer Pre-College Portfolio Program, an immersive art experience designed for dedicated high school students. This innovative program aims to equip young artists with the skills and creative strategies necessary to produce impressive works of visual art, which are essential for college and university art program applications.

workshops.

On the first day of class, students are expected to bring their strongest art pieces for a “portfolio so far” critique. Additionally, they should bring 5-7 well-loved objects for observational studies. All participants must submit a completed Medical Form before the start of their session.

During the two-week sessions, students will engage in a variety of studio projects, including:

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

4:00PM-9:00PM

WOW: WEDNESDAYS ON WELLWOOD

The Lindenhurst Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Lindenhurst presents WOW: Wednesdays on Wellwood! A fun, free block party for the whole family. Enjoy live music, local vendors and outdoor dining. Rain date: July 24. There will be a second event on August 14 from 4:00PM-9:00PM, with a rain date of August 21.Visit www. lindenhurstchamber.org for more information.

THURSDAY, JULY 18

11:00AM and 1:00PM

SHED THE MEDS & NARCAN TRAINING EVENT

Narcan Training starts promptly at 11:00 a.m. inside the Fire Department. Shed The Meds runs 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso, in partnership with Suffolk County Legislators Kevin McCaffrey and Steve Flotteron, Babylon Town Councilman Terence McSweeney and the West Babylon Fire Department are sponsoring the drive thru Shed The Meds and free Narcan Training event at the West Babylon Fire Department at 126 Arnold Avenue in West Babylon. Registration is required. Call Assemblyman Durso’s ofﬁce at 516-541-4598 to reserve your seat.

THURSDAY, JULY 18

thru SUNDAY, JULY 21

Check Website For Times

GREAT SOUTH BAY MUSIC FESTIVAL Shorefront Park, Patchogue

Come enjoy this music, art and cultural event, featuring over 55 performers

on 4 stages, the Great South Bay’s Artisan Market, a diverse food court, multiple beer and wine gardens and so much more. Children ages 10 and under can attend the event for free. For more information, visit greatsouthbaymusicfestival.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 20 at Brookside Park, W. Sayville 2:00PM

Saturday, July 27 at South Shore Mall, Bay Shore 6:00PM

FREE SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK

Islip Arts Council and Studio Theater of Long Island Shakespeare Troupe present "A Comedy of Errors" by William Shakespeare. This limited engagement will be performed FREE. For more information, please call 631-888-3525, or visit isliparts.org/

SATURDAY, JULY 20

10:00AM–3:00PM

THRIFT SHOP / YARD SALE

St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, 305 Carll’s Path, in Deer Park is hosting a Thrift Shop / Yard Sale. (If inclement weather, this event will be cancelled) Thrift Shop Special Event Of “Pack A Bag” ($5.00). New and gently used women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and shoes as well as home goods. Something for everyone! For more information, please call 631-242-7530 .

SUNDAY, JULY 21

10:00AM - 3:00PM

ANTIQUE & CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Sagtikos Manor, 677 West Montauk Hwy, West Bay Shore. Spend the day at Sagtikos Manor for a Classic Car Show. View over a hundred antique

cars and listen to music on the great lawn. Food available for purchase. Take a manor house tour while you are there (extra admission). Car Show admission $5 pp, children under 5 free. Show cars welcome. $15 registration fee. For more info.: info@sagtikosmanor.org or call dsubbiondo@aol.com. www. sagtikosmanor.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 27

10:00AM-2:00PM

FREE CHILD ID CARD PROGRAM

Nassau County Residents Only New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso, in partnership with Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, and the Nassau County District Attorney’s Ofﬁce, is holding a FREE Operation Safe Child ID Card Program at Marjorie Post Pool in Massapequa. The program is free and open to Nassau County residents only. The ID cards will be produced on site and available in minutes. No appointment is necessary. For more information, please contact Assemblyman Durso’s district ofﬁce at 516-541-4598.

SUNDAY, JULY 28

3:30 PM

AFTERNOON AT THE RACES

Brumidi Lodge, 2075 Deer Park Avenue in Deer Park is hosting an Afternoon At The Races. Adults $15, Ages 4 to 12 $10, Ages 3 and under are Free. Buffet Style Dinner, Beverage, Dessert and Coffee. Cash Bar. Rafﬂes. For more information, please call Marian at 631- 332-9775 or Anita at 631-422-6914 to reserve your spot!

The Summer PreCollege Portfolio Program this year offers three intensive sessions:

· Session 1: This session is already in progress.

· Session 2: July 30August 9, Tuesday to Friday, 10 am - 3 pm

· Session 3: August 13August 16, Tuesday to Friday, 10 am - 3 pm The program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the portfolio development process. Participants will learn the goals and techniques of creating a collegeready portfolio through individual and group critiques, technical skill development, and compositional strategy

· Figure Drawing: Charcoal

· Found Object Sculpture: Mixed media and alternative materials

· Interior Perspectives: Ink and watercolor

· Skeletal Studies: Pastel

· Observational Painting

· Cubism Portraits

Introducing new this year, a one-week session, where students will focus exclusively on figure drawing, mastering both short and long poses while exploring different mediums.

Throughout these sessions, students will have the opportunity to showcase their work in the Pre-College Portfolio Development

Continued On 14

Islip’s Class Of 2024 Looks To The Future With Hope And Confidence

On the beautiful summer night of June 26, Islip High School’s 99th commencement took place, as the graduating seniors of the Class of 2024 walked on to the school’s athletic field in proud purple and white, ready to be honored for a landmark education achievement.

After an opening processional from the Islip High School Graduation Band, directed by Steve Campanella, senior Daniel Rubinson performed a stellar rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” while the vocal septet of Parker Barry, Lucas Bohr, Jessica Cruz, Skylar Greene, Rebecca Leo Leela Lopez and Rubinson sang “Happiness” from “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.”

Student Union President Emily Lewis and Vice President Emma Cirulnik served as commencement emcees.

“I’m honored to speak before you in as we end this very important chapter of our lives,” Lewis said. “I will forever remember this occasion and all the other amazing memories we created together at Islip High School.”

“We would like to give a huge thank you to our teachers who have helped shape us to become the best versions of ourselves and inspired us to dream big,” Cirulnik said. “We will hold our Islip pride in our hearts forever. Once a Buc, always a Buc.”

Board of education

trustee Paul Austin, who graduated from high school 50 years ago, provided an enlightening and entertaining look at the state of the world and culture in 1974 as well as 1924. Shifting the present day, Austin lauded the academic, athletic and artistic achievements of the current graduating class.

“Look at all that’s been accomplished during your time in high school,” Austin said. “Now imagine 50 years from now, 2074. Some of you will go into careers that don’t even

exist now. Some will change careers to keep up with advancing technology. Others will go back to school to stay up with the changes. It is all good. Go with the changes. There is hope for the future and you are the future.”

“You are a resilient bunch,” Principal Dr. Lara Gonzalez told the graduates. “Given what you’ve achieved over the past four years, imagine the possibilities that the next four years will bring?

On behalf of the faculty and staff of our high school, we could not be more proud of you. You are perfect just the way you are, and you are right where you need to be. We’re excited about the promise that your graduation holds for you, your families and our community. As much as we will miss you, know that you will have many people here at your soon-to-be alma mater who will be rooting for you.”

Salutatorian Erica

De Lapi talked to her classmates about the value of saying yes. “Many of us have been scared to move forward in our studies, try out for a team or go up to that person to make a connection, because we fear rejection rather than strive for the potential growth and happiness that can come from an event,”

De Lapi said. “What I want to convey to you all tonight is to not let your personal pride or fears supersede your growth in life. Say yes to the rest of your life and don’t let your own mind drag you down, because saying yes just might be the best thing that could happen to you.”

A message of hope came from valedictorian Jaci Narducci, who said, “Hope is the one continuous force in our lives that has been with us from kindergarten through today. Hope will stay with us forever. These past years have not been easy, but even in ninth grade, we had hope. This hope continued throughout high school

and connected us with each other. We may not all be friends, but we have shared our hope for one another over the last four years. Today marks the end of those shared experiences, as it will be the last time all of us are together as one, so, although it is a day of celebration, it’s also bittersweet. Life may not be as easy as sitting next to each other in English class, but we will always be connected with hope. We’ll arrive at the next stage of our lives the same way that we started here, with new hope. I hope you and I have many more great memories and experiences in our lives, and the happiest of times are yet to come.”

“Whether you’re headed to college, entering the workforce or continuing to master a trade, you should be proud of the effort that has gotten you this far, and you need to keep your foot on the gas,” Superintendent Dr. Dennis O’Hara said. “Each of you are needed and will play a very important role in our world. Class of 2024, you were raised in a fantastic community and are soon to be Islip High School graduates. You are poised for rewarding and fulfilling things ahead. As you prepare to take your place in the long purple line of high school graduates, I borrow from the words of former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Joseph Francis Dunford Jr., when I tell you that your responsibility from this point forward is to use your agile minds, your bold ideas and your unlimited potential to show the world what right looks like and what it means to be from Islip.”

After receiving their diplomas from members of the Board, the new graduates turned the tassels on their caps before tossing them to the skies, ready to celebrate with their families and walk into a bright future.

Photos courtesy of Islip School District

VALEDICTORIAN - Valedictorian Jaci Narducci spoke to her classmates at Islip High School’s graduation ceremony.

SALUTATORIAN - Salutatorian Erica De Lapi spoke to her classmates at Islip High School’s graduation ceremony.

VOCAL SEPTET OF SENIORS - The vocal septet of seniors Parker Barry, Lucas Bohr, Jessica Cruz, Skylar Greene, Rebecca Leo Leela Lopez and Daniel Rubinson performed “Happiness” at Islip High School’s graduation ceremony.

GRADUATING SENIORS - The graduating seniors of Islip High School’s Class of 2024 received their diplomas at the June 26 ceremony.

The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers homeowners the Energy Efﬁcient Home Improvement Credit, a fantastic opportunity to save money while making your home more eco-friendly. You can claim a tax credit of up to $3,200 for qualifying energy-efﬁcient improvements installed on or after January 1, 2023.

So, what does this mean for you? In simple terms, for every dollar you spend on qualified energy-efficient improvements, you can reduce your tax liability, up to the specified limit. However, keep in mind that these upgrades must be new products and materials that meet specific energy-efficiency standards to qualify.

Exterior doors that meet applicable standards can qualify for the energy tax credit. You can claim 30% of the project cost, up to $250 per door, with a total limit of $500.

Upgrade to energy-efﬁcient windows to not only reduce your energy bills but also claim tax credits. Homeowners can receive 30% of project costs, up to $600, in tax credits.

The energy tax credit allows homeowners to recover 30% of the costs, up to $1,200, for improving home insulation. This credit can come from attic insulation, wall insulation, or exterior insulation that is placed behind the siding of your home.

If you are looking to take advantage of these tax credits, Uniﬁed Home Remodeling has Energy Star approved products and installers to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Rhode Island Students Named To Spring 2024 Dean’s List

The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce the Spring 2024 Dean’s List. Students named to the Dean’s List represent nearly all of Rhode Island’s cities and towns, all six New England states, New York and New Jersey, and many other states and countries. They include:

• Luke Ciolino of Amityville (11701)

• Michael Deegan of Amityville (11701)

• Leah Tilocca of Amityville (11701)

• Lauren Ragen of Babylon (11702)

• Amanda Gilmore of Babylon (11702)

• Christian Pillitteri of Babylon (11702)

• Mariah Love of Bay Shore (11706)

• Spencer Asofsky of Bay Shore (11706)

• Alexis Kerr of Bay Shore (11706)

• Claire Kittel of Bay Shore (11706)

• Marcela Torres of Copiague (11726)

• Christopher Trahey of East Islip (11730)

• Brianna Callahan of Farmingdale (11735)

• Maddie Burhart of Great River (11739)

• Conor Elling of Islip (11751)

• Erin Healy of Islip (11751)

• Daniella Pearsall of Islip (11751)

• Jackson Davis of Islip (11751)

• Ava Von Voigt of Lindenhurst (11757)

• Jenna Bryant of Lindenhurst (11757)

• Alyssa Gagliano of Massapequa (11758)

• Alexa MacPherson of Massapequa (11758)

• Alana Cardona of Massapequa (11758)

• Kaylee Harri of Massapequa (11758)

• Isabella Fontana of Massapequa (11758)

• Rachel Castonguay of Massapequa (11758)

• Jackie Cangelosi of Massapequa (11758)

• Christina Misita of Massapequa (11758)

• Sophia Greco of Massapequa (11758)

• Sarah Hughes of Massapequa Park (11762)

• Gianna Ventura of Massapequa Park (11762)

• Olivia Scheuermann of Massapequa Park (11762)

• Lacey Bowen of Massapequa Park (11762)

• Paige Goodstein of Massapequa Park (11762)

• Emily Inga of North Massapequa (11758)

• Kelsey Gil of Seaford (11783)

• Danielle McHugh of Seaford (11783)

• Amanda Pomilio of West Babylon (11704)

• Hailey Davis of West Babylon (11704)

• Jordyn Hickey of West Babylon (11704)

• Andrew Spiratos of West Islip (11795)

• Quinn McCarthy of West Islip (11795)

• Clare Hardiman of Massapequa (11758)

• Jacqueline Triglia of West Islip (11795)

• Cole Gavin of West Islip (11795)

• Taylor Davies of West Islip (11795)

• Lauren Ginocchio of West Islip (11795)

• Olivia Martone of West Islip (11795)

• Corey Braga of West Islip (11795)

• Isabella Schrimp of West Islip (11795)

To be included on the Dean’s List, full-time students must have completed 12 or more credits for letter grades which are GPA applicable during a semester and achieved at least a 3.30 quality point average. Part-time students qualify with the accumulation of 12 or more credits for letter grades which are GPA applicable earning at least a 3.30 quality point average.

About the University of Rhode Island

The University of Rhode Island is a diverse and dynamic community whose members are connected by a common quest for knowledge. As a global education leader and the state of Rhode Island’s flagship public research institution, URI offers distinctive opportunities designed to meet the global challenges of today’s world and the rapidly evolving needs of tomorrow. Founded in 1892, URI now enrolls more than 18,000 students and offers more than 200 degree programs across nine schools and colleges. As a land- and sea-grant institution, URI is a key driver of economic development in Rhode Island and contributes significantly to the health and vitality of the state, the New England region, and the nation. To learn more, visit: uri.edu.

What is so special about them? Well, to begin with, these berries are grown throughout a good percentage of the United States. Over 90% of all of the blueberries in the world are produced in our country, in thirtyfive states. And the nutritional value of blueberries cannot be beat by any other fruit or vegetable. Blueberries are full of antioxidants, which have been scientifically proven to help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. They are also excellent sources of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium, folic acid, and fiber. Plus, they are low in calories-one cup of berries is only about 80 calories. And were you aware that blueberries are virtually fatfree, cholesterol-free, and sodium-free?

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NFPA Offers Safety Tips This Summer Season To Help Families Protect Themselves

With summer upon us, the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) is reminding people about potential electrical hazards that exist in swimming pools and hot tubs, onboard boats, on docks and piers, and in waters surrounding boats, marinas, and launch ramps.

While most people are unaware of electrical dangers posed in water environments such as electric shock drowning (ESD), each year people are injured or killed from these hazards. ESD can occur when improperly installed or maintained electrical systems within marinas or boat electrical systems result in electrical current in the water, which can then pass through a person’s body, causing a level of paralysis that can ultimately cause serious injury or drowning.

or injury from shock, including death. Each year, have the boat’s electrical system inspected by a qualified marine electrician to be sure it meets the required codes of your area, including those set by the American Boat & Yacht Council. Make the necessary repairs, if recommended. Follow the same steps after any major storm that affects the boat.

Check with the marina owner about the marina’s electrical system and whether it has recently been inspected to meet the required codes of your area, including the National Electrical Code® (NEC®).

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Art League Of Long Island

Exhibition, held at the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery throughout the Program, ending on August 17, 2023. There will be a closing exhibition reception that will take place from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. This year’s participants in the program will be join us from Dix Hills, Lloyd Harbor, East Norwich, Northport, East Northport, Centerport, Bellmore, West Islip, and Huntington.

Instructor The program will be led by Stephanie Folk, a seasoned artist and educator with a BFA from Syracuse University and an MS in

Art Administration from Drexel University. Stephanie has extensive experience in the NYC gallery industry and has been teaching portfolio development for many years. She is currently an AP and Studio Arts teacher at North Shore Hebrew Academy HS and has previously served as an adjunct professor at the University of Tampa. Stephanie is actively involved in the Huntington art community, organizing monthly figure drawing nights and offering private lessons for college art portfolio preparation. Follow her on Instagram @slysartandstuff for updates on her work and

“Because ESD is not well known, NFPA continues to raise awareness about the presence of electrical hazards in water to help prevent deaths and injuries from happening in pools and waterways,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach & Advocacy.

“Never swim near a marina, dock, or boatyard, and have a qualified electrician inspect your boat, swimming pool equipment, hot tub, and spa before engaging in any water activities to ensure all life-saving measures and protection systems are functioning properly.”

Following are tips for swimmers, and boat and pool owners:

Swimmers

Never swim near a marina, dock, or boatyard.

While in a pool or hot tub look out for underwater lights that are not working properly, flicker, or work intermittently.

upcoming exhibitions.

About The Art League of Long Island

The Art League of Long Island is a not-for-profit organization, established in 1955, dedicated to broadening public access to the arts and enhancing the quality of life for Long Islanders through the visual arts. The League offers a wide range of classes, workshops, and exhibitions for artists of all ages and abilities. For more information or to register for the Summer Pre-College Portfolio Program, please visit www.artleagueli.org or contact the Art League of Long Island at 631462-5400.

If you feel a tingling sensation while in a pool, immediately stop swimming in the direction you are heading. Try and swim in a direction where you had not felt the tingling. Exit the water as quickly as possible; avoid using metal ladders or rails. Touching metal may increase the risk of shock.

Boat owners

Avoid entering the water when launching or loading a boat. These areas can contain stray electrical currents in the water, possibly leading to electric shock drowning

Have ground fault circuit protection (GFCI and GFPE) installed on circuits supplying the boat; use only portable GFCIs or shore power cords (including “Y” adapters) that bear the proper listing mark for marine applications when using electricity near water. Test GFCIs monthly.

NEVER modify the electrical system on a boat or shore power to make something work. The code-required safety mechanisms in place are intended to alert people if something is wrong with the boat and with shore power. Find a licensed, qualified professional to help determine the cause of the problem.

Pool owners

If you are putting in a new pool or hot tub, be sure the wiring is performed by an electrician experienced in the special safety requirements for these types of installations and that the completed work is inspected by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).

Have a qualified electrician periodically inspect and — where necessary — replace or upgrade the electrical devices or equipment that keep your pool or hot tub electrically safe. Have the electrician show you how to turn off all power in case of an emergency.

If there are overhead electrical lines, make sure they have proper clearance over the pool and other structures, such as a diving board. If you have any doubts, contact a qualified electrician or your local utility company to make sure power lines are a safe distance away. NFPA has several resources for swimmers, boat, and pool owners, including videos, tip sheets, checklists, and a new NFPA Podcast episode, “Hazards in the Water,” that can be downloaded and shared. Please visit nfpa.org/ watersafety to learn more.

Families Anonymous

Virtual Meetings

12-Step support group giving Hope & Strength to parents, family and friends concerned with a loved one’s destructive behavior caused by Alcohol, Drugs or Related Behavioral Problems is now meeting virtually until further notice. For further information e-mail or call: Donna526@aol.com or (631) 835.8788; Diane (631) 587.0966, www. FamiliesAnonymous. org