February 28, 2024 Massapequa Park

Warning Signs Of Developing Mental Health Issues

are more common among women than men, including depression and anxiety. The Mayo Clinic says it’s common to have mental health concerns from time to time, but when one of those concerns becomes frequent or affects one’s ability to function, it becomes an illness.

According to Clearview Treatment Programs, women often live with mental illness for months, even years before seeking treatment. Individuals may not realize the severity of their conditions, or they may mistake mental

illness for stress or feeling overwhelmed. Even though the stigma surrounding mental health issues has decreased considerably in recent years, women still face societal barriers, says McLean Mass General Brigham Hospital. Women may not be inclined to discuss their issues and, in turn, fail to receive prompt care.

Signs of mental illness vary, depending on the disorder and additional variables. A condition may affect a person’s emotions, behaviors and thoughts. Some signs of a burgeoning mental illness

include:

• Significant changes in sleep habits, which may include sleeping more or not at all.

• Changes in eating behaviors, which may include binge eating or going without food.

• Women tend to internalize mental illness, and symptoms can include ruminating, withdrawal from activities and generally retreating from life.

• Physical conditions that cannot be explained, such as headaches, stomach aches, chronic

pain, and even high blood pressure.

• Emotional lability, which means rapid mood swings from happiness to anger and sadness.

• Confused thinking or a reduced ability to concentrate.

• Excessive fears or worries.

• Detachment from reality, resulting in delusions.

• Trouble relating to situations and people.

• Changes to sex drive.

• Excessive anger or hostility.

• Suicidal thoughts or attempts.

Mental illness can affect anyone. According to research, women may have a higher propensity to develop certain mental health conditions and thus need to be aware of the symptoms of those disorders. Anyone in crisis should call 911 or their local emergency number immediately.

WELLNESS HEALTH&

Stay Healthy While Pregnant

Pregnancy can be an exciting time in a couple’s life. Ensuring mother and child stay healthy is a foremost concern during pregnancy, and women can do various things to maintain their health during this magical time in their lives.

· Avoid tobacco and alcohol. It is never a good idea to smoke or drink alcohol while pregnant. The moment a woman learns she is pregnant, she should cease these habits if she is a smoker and/or drinker.

· Visit an obstetrician for prenatal testing. A health care provider can counsel a woman through the stages of her pregnancy. Routine blood tests and additional screenings are part of prenatal care, which is important for learning about the development of the fetus and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

· Healthy eating is important. Nemours Kids Health says eating a nutritious diet is important for anyone, but when a woman is pregnant she needs to pay special attention to her diet to boost her baby’s growth and

development. Nutritious foods include lean meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.

· Increase fluid intake. It is important for a pregnant woman to drink plenty of water and other healthy beverages to support the life inside her. Water can prevent excessive swelling of limbs and urinary tract/ bladder infections and help a woman avoid constipation. The Institute of Medicine recommends roughly 10 cups of fluids daily.

· Maintain a healthy weight. Weight gain is common during pregnancy, but it is important to avoid gaining too much extra weight. Physical fitness helps keep the heart, bones and mind healthy during pregnancy. So after checking with her doctor, a pregnant woman should engage in workouts that align with her physical abilities.

· Be mindful of medication. Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications are unsafe during pregnancy. A woman should speak with her

doctor to find out which medications should be avoided.

· Take an Rh factor blood test. According to the Mayo Clinic, Rh factor is an inherited protein found on the surface of red blood cells. Having the protein makes a person Rh positive. The absence of the protein makes one Rh negative. Rh positive is much more common. During pregnancy, problems may arise if a mother is Rh negative and the baby is Rh positive. Although the blood of both mother and fetus don’t usually mix during pregnancy, a small amount can mix during the birth, introducing antibodies. While this will not affect a first pregnancy, subsequent pregnancies can be impacted. An injection of Rh immune globulin typically will be administered if a woman is Rh negative during pregnancy. A second shot may come after the birth if her infant is found to be Rh positive.

Women can employ various strategies to increase their chances of enjoying a healthy pregnancy.

PETS PLACE

ULTRA

4 year old Boxer mix. Quickwitted with a good sense of humor. Curious about life.

ALEXIS

Young female who had kittens, seeks her forever home.

PEANUT BUTTER

5-6 year old male who is ready to spread love and joy in your life. Full of affection.

SPARKY

Senior Chihuahua mix who has a lot of pep in his step and loves going on walks.

ARIEL

Young female, very friendly and likes attention, would make a good companion.

MAK

1 year old male. Goofy guy that loves to go on walks, playing, and affection.

SAGE

6 year old Pit mix. Happy, affectionate, and outgoing. Perfect for an active family.

FEATHER Cute and adorable female willing to share toys with the right person/family.

KING

2 year old male. Sweet and goofy guy who lives for playtime and adventures.

ZERO

Senior boy that is happy and sweet. He would make a wonderful companion.

SHEEBA

Young female tortie looking for her BFF.

VEGA

1-2 year old female. Beautiful and playful girl with so much love to give.

PUBLISHER

Jeff Lambert

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

Joe Lambert

Edward Rodriguez

Patty Franks ADMINISTRATION

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Josh Marlowe

Teri Tinkler

Diana Lambert

Dorrine Lambert

ADMIN & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Natalie Raccuglia MANAGING EDITOR

Felicia Edwards

MARKETING MANAGER

Noelle Lambert

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:

Briana Neary Nets 1,000th Point For Massapequa Chiefs

It was a moment she will never forget. With her loved ones cheering from the stands, Massapequa High School senior Briana Neary scored her 1,000th career point as a member of the varsity basketball

team. The milestone happened on Feb. 6 in a home game against Freeport, coincidentally the same school she scored her first points against as a freshman. Briana has been

a four-year member of the varsity team and managed to reach and surpass the 1,000-point mark despite her ninth grade season being shortened by the pandemic. It was the fourth

Town Receives Highest Award For Excellence In Financial Reporting

Government Recognized For Spirit Of Full Disclosure In Producing Identifiable Budget Surpluses And Deficit Eliminations

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that the Town has been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The recognition, awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA), is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. The Town was praised for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022.

“This award represents a significant accomplishment by our Town and the way we have managed our finances,” said Supervisor Saladino.

“Since taking office, my administration has eliminated $44 million in deficits inherited from the prior administration while producing budget surpluses and earning 8 credit rating upgrades from Wall Street – all while cutting property taxes and repaving more roads than ever before! We’re proud to earn this recognition and will continue practicing fiscal restraint to protect taxpayers.”

In order to be awarded a Certificate of Achievement, a government must publish an easily readable and efficiently organized annual comprehensive financial report. This report must satisfy both generally accepted accounting principles

quarter of the game when she scored the 1,000th point, and her teammates immediately rushed onto the court to celebrate.

“I had a huge support system there in my family and friends,” Briana said. “I was so lucky to have that moment.”

Briana has been playing basketball since she was 4 years old and joined the CYO program at St. Rose of Lima Church, with her father as coach. She played with CYO through eighth grade, as well as two years for Berner Middle School before making the jump to varsity. As a junior, she was the Conference Player of the Year, has been an All-County athlete twice

and this year was among Newsday’s Top 100 girls basketball players. This year will also be Briana’s third trip to the playoffs.

“I love the excitement after a win or after a good play,” she said. “I love the energy and fast play. I love the connection with my teammates.”

Even though she excels at basketball, she will actually continue her athletic career in college as a soccer player. Briana has also been a standout for the Chiefs girls soccer team, winning the Mike Clark Award as Nassau County’s most valuable player and was nominated as an All-American Athlete. She has committed to play

for Siena College, where she will major in biology. Briana admits that choosing between basketball and soccer for her collegiate career was one of the toughest decisions she’s had to make, but looks forward to the next chapter.

At Massapequa High School, Briana is a member of the Best Buddies Club, and does community service work with the National Honor Society and National Spanish Honor Society. She said her time in high school has been greatly enhanced by positive relationships with her teachers, coaches and friends, as well as the support from her family.

and applicable legal requirements. The Town’s financial report is judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the GFOA program, which includes demonstrating a constructive ‘spirit of full disclosure’ to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

The GFOA, founded in 1906, represents public finance officials throughout the United States and Canada deeply involved in planning, financing and implementing thousands of governmental operations in each of their jurisdictions. GFOA’s mission is to advance excellence in public finance.

BRIANA NEARY NETS 1,000TH POINT - Massapequa High School senior Briana Neary recently scored her 1,000th career point as a member of the varsity basketball team. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District

CELEBRATING HER MILESTONE - Briana’s teammates and coaches celebrated her milestone following the Feb. 6 game against Freeport. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District

How To Protect Long-Term Cognitive Health

Cognitive health is not something to take for granted. Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think, learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Brain health should be a priority for everyone. The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

· cognitive health, which is how well you think, learn

and remember

· motor function, or how you make and control movements

· tactile function, which is how you feel sensations; and

· emotional function, or how emotions are interpreted and responded to.

Individuals can safeguard brain health - particularly cognitive health - by taking these steps.

Be more health-conscious

Working with doctors, individuals can put their

health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure

All chronic conditions cause long-term repercussions, but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive

impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress

Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well. Make every stride to reduce stress, whether that involves taking vacations,

meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help.

Pay attention to hearing loss

Certain hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, says Healthline. Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

March Happenings

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28

7:00PM REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING

The next public meeting of the Republic Airport Commission will be held at 7150 Republic Airport, Rm 201, Farmingdale NY. Please call 631-752-7707 x6109 or send an email at info@republicairport.net for more information.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29

7:00PM-8:00PM

VINYL LISTENING CLUB

Stop by the Connetquot Public Library to hear an eclectic mix of music ranging from jazz, blues, country, classical, rock, and everything in between. Attend as a listener or bring a record of your own to share with other vinyl enthusiasts. A turntable will be provided. No registration required. For more information, please call the library at 631-567-5079 or visit their website at www.connetquotlibrary.org.

7:00PM-9:00PM

VOGUE IN THE VILLAGE FASHION SHOW

Join the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and Theatre Three for the 2024 Port Jefferson Vogue in the Village Fashion Show held at Theatre Three! See fashion and accessories by local businesses. The first 100 tickets holders who arrive will receive a swag bag! $20 per person (cash or check) or $25 (credit card or online). For more information, please visit their website at www.portjeffchamber.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

8:00PM

WEST ISLIP ORCHESTRA CONCERT

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.

Paul Little will be conducting in "No Ceilings: Women in Music"

The concert will be featuring Eliana Kirkup, Harpist. Held at West Islip Beach Street Middle School, Beach Street West Islip. Students free, adults $10. Visit their website at www.westisliporchestra.org or please call 631-661-8348 for more information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

9:00AM-4:00PM

ANTIQUE DECOY & SPORTING COLLECTIBLES SHOW

Hosted by the Long Island Decoy Collectors Association at IBEW Union Hall in Hauppauge. Admission is $7, children 12 and under get in free. For tickets and registration, please visit their website at www.lidecoycollectors.com.

6:00PM

CHEF COMPETITION

Visit Grace United Methodist Church in Lindenhurst to cook your favorite entrée or dessert or just taste and cast your vote. Admission is $10. RSVP to Harry at 631-842-7056 or the church at 631-226-8690.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6

6:00PM-7:30PM

PARENTING A SECOND TIME AROUND

An 8 week program for grandparents or other caregivers being held at Sunshine Prevention Center in Port Jefferson Station. This workshop will consist of discipline and guidance, care for oneself as caregiver, rebuilding a family, living with teens, legal issues and advocacy. Babysitting is provided as needed but MUST pre-register. No Fees. For more information call 631-476-3099.

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

9:00AM-4:00PM

THE NEW SEAFORD GUN SHOW

Held at the Seaford American Legion on Saturday the 9th and Sunday the 10th (9AM-3PM). Admission is $10, kids under 12 are free with a parent or guardian. For further information, please call 516-221-7380.

4:30PM-7:30PM

ST. PATRICK'S DAY DINNER

The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn is hosting a St. Patrick's Day Dinner. It's $30 per person and includes a corned beef and cabbage dinner with potatoes, carrots, irish soda bread, beverages, coffee and dessert. The Mulvahill-Lynch School Irish Dancers will be performing. Call Priscilla to reserve your seat and arrange pre-payment. RSVP by March 1st. Call 631-379-4889 for more information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

11:30AM-1:00PM

BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY

Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Lindenhurst is hosting a bereavement ministry group that will continue until May 18th on Saturdays. Registration is required. If interested please call Linda Arpino at 631-592-1062 or email forubabe77@aol.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

2:00PM

JOURNEY–CROSS & CRUCIFIXION Creative Ministries presents Journey– Cross & Crucifixion. Presented at Saints Cyril & Methodius in Deer Park. For more information visit www.CMPAC.com or call 631-218-2810.

WELLNESS HEALTH&

Activities To Strengthen The Heart

The heart is a vital component of the human body. Without a functional heart, life is simply not possible. As with other muscles in the body, it is important to give the heart a workout to improve its strength and vitality. Intermountain Health says an individual who dos not exercise is more than twice as likely to get heart disease as someone who does. UCI Health says heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death worldwide.

Exercise is an ideal way to strengthen the heart and reduce your risk for heart disease and other conditions. Certain activities are prime for boosting heart health.

• Aerobic exercise: Aerobic exercise raises heart rate and gets the blood pumping throughout the body. Aerobic activity improves circulation, and over time it ensures the heart does not have to work as hard to pump blood, thus potentially lowering blood pressure. Also, aerobic exercise can reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes and can help those with diabetes to control blood glucose more readily. Aerobic

exercises include brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, playing tennis, and other activities that get the heart pumping. Aim for 30 minutes each day, for at least five days a week.

• Resistance/weight training: Building muscle can help the body burn fat and boost metabolism. This type of training can use weights or the body’s own resistance. Improving muscle mass while reducing body fat and excess weight are hearthealthy steps to take. Strength training can be incorporated into a routine two to three days a week.

• Balance and flexibility exercises: A person may wonder what flexibility and balance has to do with heart health. While there isn’t a direct correlation to how the heart works, these types of activities will help reduce the risk of falls or injuries to muscles and joints while working out. Inactivity is dangerous for the heart, so ensuring that physical activity can

continue is important. Flexibility and balance exercises keep the body limber, and can be incorporated into daily workouts. Stretching, tai chi, yoga, and pilates can be included two or three times a week.

• Healthy eating: The foods people eat can affect heart health. Opt for lean protein sources and foods that include healthy fats. Salmon, avocados and olives are some options. Balance these foods with whole grains that are full of fiber, which can help a person feel fuller longer. Fiber also is essential for preventing atherosclerosis, a condition that causes hardening of the arteries.

• Meditation: Slowing down, performing deepbreathing exercises and meditation can reduce stress. That, in turn, can help prevent damage to the heart.

Strengthening the heart and maintaining its health involves various activities that can be incorporated into daily routines.

Moderate-Intensity

Activities That

Can Improve Overall Health

Exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle.

The current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicates adults need 150 minutes of moderateintensity physical activity each week. But what constitutes moderateintensity physical activity?

Moderate-intensity physical activity gets the heart pumping, but only around one in five adults and teens get enough exercise to

maintain good health, says the American Heart Association. It may be because people are having difficulty figuring out what constitutes moderateintensity activity. Here is a more detailed explanation of the types of activities considered moderateintensity.

· Walking very briskly (roughly four miles per hour)

· Heavy cleaning, like washing windows, vacuuming and mopping

· Mowing the lawn with a power mower

· Bicycling with light effort (10 to 12 miles per hour)

· Playing recreational badminton

· Playing doubles tennis

· Shooting a basketball

· Water aerobics

· Playing volleyball

· Heavy gardening

· Painting and decorating

Anything that doesn’t increase heart rate and breathing speed will not count as moderateintensity activity towards the recommended amount of activity. However, any exercise is better than no exercise at all. As long as an activity breaks up long periods of sitting still, doctors says it is still beneficial.

Author Illustrates The Book-Making Process

With experience as both a writer and an illustrator, Dan Yaccarino gave students great insight into the creation of children’s books during his visit to East Lake Elementary School on Feb. 5. Mr. Yaccarino was this year’s guest for the author residency, an annual tradition spanning more

than a quarter century.

The author visit was coordinated by librarian Anna Schwen, who said Mr. Yaccarino was selected because of the wide variety of children’s books he has published for elementaryaged children, including picture and chapter books.

“I liked the fact that he

is both an author and an illustrator,” Ms. Schwen said. “Many of my students have expressed their desire to write and illustrate their own books one day so I wanted to try to get an author who did both.”

Mr. Yaccarino had gradelevel presentations in which he discussed his books and

the publishing process, in addition to taking questions. Every day, he spends time writing or illustrating, and encouraged students to devote time to their passions. He showed several examples of his early story boards and how his ideas eventually became books. Children were also excited to learn that one of his children’s books is being developed into an animated series.

Ms. Schwen said that the goal of the author visit was to inspire students by showing them what can be accomplished through hard work and determination.

“It’s important for students to be able to make connections to their own lives and their own dreams of what they might want to do one day,” she said. “By listening to an author talk about some of their struggles, methods and ideas, students can imagine themselves following in their footsteps and accomplishing their own goals through hard work.”

AUTHOR ILLUSTRATES THE BOOK-MAKING PROCESS - Author and illustrator Dan Yaccarino spoke to East Lake Elementary School students as part of the annual author residency. Children were excited to meet the man behind many of the books found in the classrooms. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District

Residents Renew Wedding Vows At Special Valentine’s Day Ceremony

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca and Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrated with approximately 100

Special Event Features Reenactment Of America’s First Valentine

residents at a special Vow Renewal Ceremony held on Valentine’s Day at Town Hall. Co-sponsored by Raynham Hall Museum, the event featured a reading of America’s First

Valentine, which was written on February 14, 1779 in Oyster Bay.

The story of America’s first Valentine is a proud piece of Oyster Bay history which dates back to the time

of the Revolutionary War, as British troops occupied Long Island homes. During the height of the American Revolutionary War, love improbably blossomed between Lt. Col Simcoe

and a young patriot named Sally Townsend as the Townsend property served as a headquarters for a regiment of 300 British troops. Lt. Col. Simcoe presented Sally with a

poem he wrote asking her to be his Valentine, and his famous poem, entitled ‘Will You Be My Valentine,’ became the first documented written Valentine in America.

RESIDENTS RENEW WEDDING VOWS AT SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY

years

Innovation Meets Young Adults Across Long Island To Prevent Substance Abuse

YES Community Counseling Center is proud to announce the launch of an innovative mobile application, BRIDGES YES, developed by their BRIDGES Program.

BRIDGES (Building Resources for Individuals to Develop, Guide, Encourage, and Support) is a FREE outpatient system of care for young adults 16-25 who are living with substance misuse and mental health issues, or are in recovery. YES is one of only 17 recipients in the nation awarded funding by SAMHSA to launch this holistic treatment program.

BRIDGES YES is a comprehensive app designed to cater to the unique needs of young adults who are dealing with substance misuse or are on the journey to recovery. It contains a library of podcasts, meditations, and resources carefully created by experts in their field. With a user-

friendly interface and a focus on providing personalized support and empowering resources, the app serves as a powerful lifeline for young adults navigating the complexities of substance misuse and mental health. More than just a resource hub, it is a supportive companion on young adults’ path to recovery. The app is particularly beneficial for those in the initial stages of recovery, who may not be fully ready for support but seek a sense of connection in a stigma free environment. The app also plays a crucial role in building trust with the BRIDGES program; empowering young adults by acknowledging their challenges and providing diverse mediums for support. The app acts as a gateway, opening doors to possibilities for young adults throughout Nassau and Suffolk County. One notable feature of the BRIDGES YES

Tonianne Ach, MSW, BRIDGES Young Adult Support Coodinator

app is the ability to seamlessly schedule BRIDGES program appointments, including in-person and Zoom consultations, for Nassau and Suffolk county residents aged 16-25.

The BRIDGES program seeks to engage, support and empower young adults and their families to identify

needs and overcome barriers to get help. It is a flexible program that works with young adults in their most comfortable environment whether at a college campus, a local coffee shop, the library, by Zoom, or at the YES Community Counseling Center office in Massapequa or Levittown.

BRIDGES provides strength-based prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery services, ensuring accessibility to critical support services through grant partners.

As our nation continues to address the critical issues surrounding substance misuse and mental health, BRIDGES YES is a testament to YES Community Counseling Centers’ commitment to providing innovative solutions for the well-being of Long Island’s young adults.

Use the QR codes or links below to download the BRIDGES YES App.

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bridges-yes/id6472271966

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com. bridges_app_38011&pcampaignid=web_share

For more information about THE BRIDGES Program please visit the BRIDGES website at www.bridgesyes.org

YES Community Counseling Center is a leading substance treatment organization that provides accessible and comprehensive counseling services. With a mission to promote prevention and well-being, YES Community Counseling Centers offers a range of programs and initiatives, including the BRIDGES Program.

CEREMONY - Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Supervisor Saladino, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrated with 100 residents at the Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal ceremony at Town Hall, including Joe and Marie Cagna of Bethpage, who celebrated 56

of marriage, and Audrey and Joe Rydzewski of Locust Valley, who celebrated 68 years of marriage.

Now Accepting New Applications For 9/11 Walls Of Honor

Memorial Honors Victims Of 9/11 Illness

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that applications are now available for families to add the names of loved ones to the Town of Oyster Bay’s 9/11 Walls of Honor which recognize all those with a connection to the Town who gave their lives and succumbed in their battle against 9/11 related cancers and illness. Each September, the Town unveils newly inscribed names into the Walls of Honor which recognize the family members, friends and neighbors lost to this toxic legacy.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “We remember and give thanks to those who ran into danger in order to help the victims of a cowardly act of terror.  This includes first responders, downtown workers,

residents, students and so many others with cancer certified to be 9/11-related.  The events of 9/11 continue to take our heroes and survivors – and members of our community will continue to face darker days ahead.  We watch each week as more of these heroes pass, in an everincreasing and unending number.  Just as many of these rescue and recovery heroes raced to the Towers the first minute the plane hit, and stayed until the last brick was turned, their memorial stands with and lead us to those we lost that tragic Tuesday morning.”

Reports from the World Trade Center Health program indicate that we are approaching a terrible milestone, in which approximately 43,000 people are being treated for medical problems and

10,000 people have suffered cancers linked to the toxic exposure at Ground Zero.  More than 2,500 responders and others affected have succumbed to their illness.

The 9/11 Walls of Honor were constructed under an initiative led by Supervisor Saladino, the Town Board and a volunteer committee that includes retired FDNY EMS Lieutenant Bill Gleason, Retired NYPD Detective Tom Luberto, Deacon Dave White, Jericho Fire Commissioner Frank Sammartano, North Massapequa Fire Commissioner Ralph Raymond, Massapequa Fire Commissioner Justin McCaffrey and Rescue & Recovery Worker Joseph Pinto.

Applications may be downloaded at www. oysterbaytown.com/ wallsofhonor.

Registration Opening

The Massapequa of Chamber of Commerce is honored to introduce the Patricia Orzano Memorial Scholarship Award for Women in Business. In loving memory of Patty, our beloved Past President and the heart and soul of our Chamber.

All Massapequa High School students are encouraged to apply for this scholarship award directly through their guidance office

For Spring Town Youth Ice Hockey Program

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that registration for the Town’s Spring Youth Ice Hockey Program will begin soon for boys and girls ages 8U-

16U. This program includes full House League games, practice schedule and playoffs. Clinics spanning 10 weeks in duration will also be available for registration including all girls clinics,

PATRICIA ORZANO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS

6U clinics, adult learn to play clinics and advanced skill clinics. Programs will begin on April 3, 2024.

“This recreational and instruction program is designed to give youngsters a great way to learn the correct fundamentals of one of America’s most popular sports,” said Supervisor Saladino. “In addition to receiving instruction on the proper techniques of skating, stickhandling and shooting, participants will make new friends and create lifelong memories.”

for registration. A parent of legal guardian must be present for registration. All participants must provide their own equipment, and should have some skating ability. For more information, call the rink at (516) 4337465, x 8234 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com/hockey.

and use the guidance application. Massapequa High School students should contact their guidance office for more details.

For other qualifying students attending any public or private school outside of Massapequa High School, please visit https://forms.gle/ eD8EeP3MX51xwTj38 to submit your qualifications.

In order to qualify for this scholarship award

of $500, the student must be a female graduating senior who is planning to major in Business; Accounting; or Finance in college. The winner can be a female Massapequa

High School student, or the daughter or granddaughter of a current Chamber member in good standing.

Apply by March 15th, 2024.

Registration will open online for Town of Oyster Bay residents on March 4th and March 5th at www.oysterbaytown.com/ portal beginning at 9:00 am; online registration will available to nonresidents on March 6th at 9:00 am. All registrants must provide a copy of their birth certificate, proof of residency, and payment

Massapequa High School thespians will perform the songs of ABBA, along with some lively choreography, for the drama club’s annual spring musical, “Mamma Mia.” Shows are 7 p.m. on Friday, March 8 and Saturday, March 9.

The cast of 56 studentactors will perform the

comedy-drama set over a 24hour period in the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi. It follows bride-to-be Sophie and her quest to find her real father among three potential suitors. Major musical numbers include “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia” and “Voulez-Vous.”

The show stars junior

Isabella Corigliano as Sophie. Other lead actors include seniors Cooper Arbisi as Sam, Ava Castillo as Donna, Julia Duffy ad Tanya, Olivia Kenney as Rosie, Robbie Morana as Harry, Jayden Pearl as Bill and Luke Raymond as Sky.

“We all love the show,” Cooper said. “A lot of us

are seniors, so it’s our last show and our last chance to perform with each other. It’s very light-hearted. While there’s definitely dramatic aspects, it’s like we’re having a party on stage.”

Luke said that the audience will really enjoy the dance numbers, as the choreography matches the

music very well. Olivia added that the passion of the actors will be evident.

The show is directed by Katie Pearsall with support from choreographer Danielle Coutieri, vocal director Craig Coyle and production assistant Nichole Greene.

“All of the director work

really hard to push us to be our best,” Robbie said. “This group is very talented.”

Tickets are $15 per person and will be sold in advance, beginning Feb. 26, through the high school’s general office at (516) 308-5900. Additionally, tickets can be purchased at the door on performance nights.

“Is it a good time to sell?” This is a question I get asked all the time and “YES, IT IS STILL A GREAT TIME TO SELL.” There is an insufficient amount of homes for sale to meet the demands of the many qualified buyers looking for homes in our area. I have buyers anxiously awaiting for homes to come on the market. The rise of interest rates over the past year have not impacted the prices of homes being sold.

Let me introduce myself, I’m not only your local real estate agent but I’m your neighbor as well. I’m a lifelong Long Island resident having lived in Massapequa for over 33 years. My husband and I raised our family here. I know what an idyllic place this is to live. It is truly special. I love where I live and as a full time realtor, I love what I do.

I know buying or selling a home can be quite stressful as it is one of the most important financial decisions you will ever make. My broad knowledge of real estate along with my background in banking, finance and interior design has given me the experience to guide you and ease any concerns you may have. I pride myself upon providing exceptional service and professionalism with the utmost in honesty, integrity, timely responsiveness to your requests and complete customer satisfaction. My knowledge and expertise will be there to support you to make your home dreams a reality.

So whether you’re looking to buy or sell or just have any questions about the current real estate market, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’d love to help.