May 29, 2024 Massapequa Park

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

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.

DRINKING WATER TASTING CONTEST - 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. Pictured: Long Island Water Conference officials were on hand to distribute samples from different water providers so participants could select their favorites.

Gift Ideas For Graduates

The class of 2024 soon will be donning their caps and gowns and receiving their diplomas. After commencement ceremonies, graduation parties will soon follow. For party guests, that means finding the right gifts for grads. Some high school graduates will continue their studies at colleges and universities.

Others may pursue careers in various trades.

Still, some graduates may be ready to enter the workforce right away. No matter the direction, these gifts can treat graduates to something special.

Streaming TV device

While it's certainly possible to watch favorite shows or films on mobile devices, viewing is that much clearer on televisions.

Rather than graduates having to invest in cable

television wherever they go, streaming devices like AppleTV or Roku are portable, which means they can be used at home, in a dorm room or on vacation.

Secured credit card

Individuals typically are eligible to apply for credit cards once they reach age 18, which is the age most students are when they graduate high school. Credit cards are one method of establishing solid credit, so it can be beneficial for a teen to have one. But it can be challenging for individuals with no credit histories to get approval.

A secured card, according to CapitalOne, is a credit card that requires money deposited with the credit card issuer in order to open the account. This security deposit is held by the issuer as long as the account is open.

Often the security deposit is the same as the credit limit. Gift-givers can help establish secured cards for grads by providing the funds for the security deposits.

Framed memorabilia

Whether a graduate was a star athlete or a premier member of the marching band, gift-givers can provide special memories of time spent in school. Frame ticket stubs, sports jerseys, show programs, or other memorabilia that commemorates a graduate's glory days at their alma mater.

Travel accessories

Graduates may want to go on a trip before they take the next step in their lives. Quality travel gear is a worthy investment. Select luggage that won’t exceed airport carry-on limits so grads can cut the baggage check lines when

they dart away to locales near or far. Carry-on bags also fit easily in bus cargo areas or in the trunks of cars. Pair the gifts with standard or digital luggage tags.

Wireless earbuds or headphones

Upgrade grads’ audio with the newest wireless earbuds or headphones. This way they can take them to the gym or use them to listen to shows or music while sharing spaces with others, including college roommates.

Smartphone wallet case

Teenagers are seldom without their phones. A smartphone wallet case enables graduates to stash IDs, credit or debit cards and some cash into specially designed pockets built into the phone cases. This keeps all essentials in one spot.

June Happenings

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

9:00AM-2:00PM

ANTIQUE VINTAGE BOOK SALE

The Friends of the West Islip Library is doing a Vintage & Antique Book Sale. Held at the West Islip Public Library, 3 Higbie Lane. There will be a wide variety of books, including history, biographies, general fi ction, children's literature, classics, and more. For more information call 631-206-4206.

10:00AM-4:00PM

MEDIEVAL HISTORY DAY

The Canton of Lions End, in the Crown Province of Østgarðr returns to the Village Green in Farmingdale for the Fourth Annual Farmingdale Medieval History Day. This free event is intended for all ages, with family-oriented crafts, hands-on demonstrations and exhibits for adults and children. Rain date is June 8th. For more information visit www.farmingdalevillage.com.

10:00AM-5:00PM

WANTAGH SPRING FESTIVAL

The Wantagh KIwanis Club will once again host the Annual Wantagh Spring Festival at the Wantagh Train Station, along Sunrise Highway (between Beech Street and Oakland Avenue). Admission is free. For more information call 516-644-5615 or visit www.lifairs.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

1:00PM-4:30PM

66TH ANNUAL ROSE SHOW

The Long Island Rose Society’s rose show will be at Clark Botanic Garden, located on 193 I.U. Willets Rd., Albertson. The theme is ‘Vines

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.

and Roses’ and the fl oor will be open to the public. Hundreds of different varieties of roses will be on display, as well as many rose arrangements. Gift baskets will be auctioned off. The American Rose Society’s Consulting Rosarians will be there to answer any rose related questions. For more information email marionfromeo@aol.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

7:30AM-3:00PM

5K RUN/WALK 4 LIFE

Held at Cedar Creek Park in Seaford, Parking Field #6. Rain or shine. Adult $25, Students (ages 12-18) $15, Kids (under 12) are free. Entry fee includes hydration station on course, post-race refreshments, top fi nishers awards, run/walk bibs. For further information regarding sponsorships, donations, registration, and pre-sale raffl es contact Regina at 516-798-8746 or email mpiccolo@lifecenterli.org

10:00AM-3:00PM

CRAFT FAIR/YARD SALE

St. Mark’s Islip will be holding their annual craft fair/yard sale at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. It will be held in the church yard at 754 Montauk Highway, Islip, NY. Shoppers throughout both Suffolk and Nassau Counties will get to explore merchandise from Long Island vendors who will display and sell their wares. If you have questions, please call Robyn LoCricchio at 516-459-2976.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

3:00PM

CONCERT SERIES

The fi rst in a series of concerts to

raise funds for a new church organ.

The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn presents, Craig Schulman on Broadway. Premium admission $65, includes seating in the front, and a post concert reception, including a question and answer meet and greet with Mr. Schulman. General admission $40, student admission $25. For tickets please call 631-275-3461.

TUESDAY, JUNE 11

7:00PM

REPUBLIC AIRPORT MEETING

The next meeting of the Republic Airport Commission, which is open to the public, will be held at 7150 Republic Airport, Rm 201, Farmingdale NY. For information call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email: info@republicairport.net.

THURSDAY, JUNE 27

7:00PM-10:00PM

MUSIC BINGO

Yes Community Counseling Center will host a special fundraiser to support the mental health and wellness of local children. $50 per ticket, includes buffet and bingo. Raffl e tickets available at event. For more information call 516-799-3203 or visit www.yesccc.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

10:00AM-1:00PM

WHITE ELEPHANT & BAG SALE

Stuff a bag full of clothes for $5 at the Simpson United Methodist Church in Amityville, 30 Locust Avenue. New Items & Thrift Shop Treasures for sale. New clothes are not included in the bag sale. Donations are accepted! For more information, please call Mary at 516-991-8098.

Donations Collected To Help Local Veterans

DONATIONS COLLECTED TO HELP LOCAL VETERANS - Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino along with the Town Board joined

AMVETS Post 88 of Massapequa to deliver goods collected throughout the month to local hometown heroes. This Collection Drive directly supported veterans being cared for

helping to bring the comfort of home to those living there during their time of need. The Northport VA has a ‘Wish List’ of items their veterans need, and the Town’s Collection Drive helped to ensure that those needs are met. Supervisor Saladino commended our amazing residents for their generosity and thanked them for supporting this incredible initiative, to help show our support of our veterans. This year’s Collection Drive was held in loving memory of Commander Richard DeJesu of Oyster Bay, who recently passed away after a tragic accident.

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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. Stay Connected- 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.

Assemblyman Durso Joined Island Harvest Food Bank In Support of Stamp Out Hunger

Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park) recently joined Island Harvest Food Bank, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), and the United States Postal Service in support of the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive, the nation’s largest single day food collection campaign.

Long Island residents were encouraged to leave nonperishable food donations

by their mailbox for their letter carrier to collect. All food collected in Nassau and Suffolk counties benefited Island Harvest by providing supplemental food support to more than 300,000 Long Islanders who face hunger and food insecurity, including nearly one-third of those who are children.

“Throughout these challenging times, Long Islanders have united to make sure those in need

have enough food to eat. It is a responsibility we share as a community,” said Durso. I would like to thank the USPS and our letter carriers for participating in this important campaign. And a special thanks to all the residents who donated food to help Stamp Out Hunger.”

All food collected will benefit Island Harvest Food Bank to help Long Islanders struggling to put food on their tables.

IN SUPPORT OF STAMP OUT HUNGER - Pictured: Assemblyman Michael Durso (center) along with Randi Shubin Dresner (President and CEO of Island Harvest), volunteers, and local government representatives.

Hospital Association Offers $2,000 Scholarship

The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC) announces a $2,000 scholarship for college juniors/seniors or post graduate students who are studying Journalism, Marketing/ Communications, or Healthcare Administration.

(The scholarship is not for clinical-based study.)

The Ann Marie Brown Memorial Scholarship honors the late Ann Marie Brown, who served as vice president for government and public relations for the Hospital Council from 1983 to 1993. The

scholarship is administered by the Hospital Council’s Communications Committee.

Filing deadline is June 14, 2024.

For more information and an application go to the NSHC scholarship page or call 631-334-8321.

Town, Massapequa Chamber Of Commerce To Host Street Fair On

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board announced that the Town is partnering with the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce to host the Annual Street Fair. Held at Broadway and Veteran’s Blvd in Massapequa, this event will bring the community together for a day of family fun on Sunday, June 2nd, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Rain Date Sunday, June 9th).

“We’re supporting downtown businesses and keeping our local economy vibrant by hosting the Annual Street Fair in partnership with the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This fair is a great

June 2nd

opportunity for residents to come out and support local businesses while enjoying a family-fun day on Long Island. You won’t want to miss it!”

The event includes Showmobile performances featuring DJ sets, live music by TIME WAS and L.I. REWIND BAND, and the Amvets Post 88 Honor Guard. In addition to the musical offerings, families can enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, and a variety of rides suitable for all ages. Craft and food vendors will line the streets, offering an assortment of culinary delights and handcrafted goods to peruse. Magician John Lepre will also be in attendance. Jen and Mike Masone will be honored

as the event’s Grand Marshals.

The event wouldn’t be possible without the support of local sponsors, including Entertainment Sponsor Masone Masonry, Ride Sponsor Massapequa Imaging, Silver Sponsors Allstate and Extreme Auto Body, and Bronze Sponsors DQ Grill & Chill, Jersey Mike’s, James Funeral Home, Webster Bank, The Bristal Assisted Living, Island Federal, and Northwell Health For further information regarding the Annual Street Fair, including vendor opportunities and event updates, please visit MassapequaChamber. org/events or call 516541-1443.

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THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how to get started? Call today and one of our experi enced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let us at SOUTH BAY'S NEIGHBOR NEWS PAPE RS set up an adv ertising program for you. Y ou'll be glad you di d! Call 631-226-2636, Ext. 276

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PSEG Long Island Teaches Kids And First Responders

To

Be Safe Around Electricity

May Is National Electric Safety Month

Safety is a top priority for PSEG Long Island, and that’s why to recognize National Electric Safety Month (May), the company is sharing tips to keep customers safe from electric dangers and reminding them about its free safety education programs.

PSEG Long Island has created this safety education for adults and children as young as 5. Some can be tailored to support first responders in the medical, police and fire rescue disciplines. The company’s new Mobile Electric Safety Unit, Electric Safety Town presentation, Safety Sleuth school program and Touch-a-Truck events are available by request for schools, camps, firehouses and community events throughout Long Island and the Rockaways. Each presentation is adapted to each specific audience, providing real life scenarios and educational tips to protect lives, homes and property from electric mishaps.

The company’s new Mobile Electric Safety Unit is a threequarter-scale model of the electric distribution system on a 40-footlong, 15,000 pound trailer. It includes high voltage wires, poles and other structures and items that can be found around homes and neighborhoods. Using this tool, instructors from PSEG Long Island’s utility worker academy simulate scenarios, including a live wire down on a vehicle, an aluminum pool skimmer coming into contact with an overhead wire, a squirrel on the electric line shorting out the circuit, and a wire down on a metal fence. They also demonstrate the lifesaving importance of properly inspecting utility workers’ personal protective equipment. Attendees can see electricity arcing and flaming in these situations and see and hear what happens when a fuse blows out.

Electric Safety Town demonstrates concepts similar to what is provided by the Mobile Electric Safety Unit, but on a smaller scale. It is appropriate for children in third through sixth grades and can be presented in school classrooms or at camping programs, club or organization meetings or community events. The interactive program teaches the principles of electric safety using the model of a neighborhood, complete with a

miniature two-story home, vehicles, power lines and other items for simulation. With actual scenarios of potential hazards, students learn about possible dangers in their own neighborhoods or in their daily life, and what to do if faced with such a situation.

PSEG Long Island’s Toucha-Truck program is available to schools and camps across the service area. Lineworkers bring their utility trucks and teach participants about electric safety. They alsoa show children how the truck and its components work, the safety gear the workers must wear while working and they answer questions to help the students understand electric safety and what it takes to be a utility worker. This program is appropriate for children up to approximately 10 years old. The youngsters enjoy being close up to a bucket truck as they get practical safety tips from PSEG Long Island’s first responders.

PSEG Long Island’s Safety Sleuth is an educational postercreation program designed for firstthrough fourth-grade students. The electrical safety coursework provides age-appropriate lessons,

such as staying safe around downed wires outside, and around electrical outlets indoors; and it meets educational standards on these subjects. As part of the program, students are encouraged to create posters, which may be included in an online gallery and in a display at the Long Island Children’s Museum in Uniondale.

To learn more about or request any of these free programs, visit psegliny.com/inthecommunity.

In addition to these face-toface community programs, PSEG Long Island also provides practical tips to help families stay safe from electricity hazards and dangers:

Do not handle electric appliances where there is moisture and never use electric appliances in wet or damp areas unless they are specifically rated as such and “childprotected” by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

Cover unused electrical outlets with plastic safety coverings to protect small children and pets from potential harm.

Inspect all appliance cords and extension cords regularly to ensure that they are not frayed or broken. Ensure that cords do not run under

rugs, through doorways or have furniture resting on them, as that could damage them.

Never use water to put out an electric fire, because water acts as a conductor and can cause shock. Fire extinguishers rated “Class C” should be kept in the home and used for electric fires.

Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of the home, including basements and near each bedroom. Avoiding air vents and cooking areas, and ensure alarms near where people are sleeping are loud enough to wake them. They also should be tested regularly to ensure the alarm is functioning properly.

Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Stay as far away as possible from them, and if possible keep others, children, and pets away from the wire. Do not drive over or stand near any downed wire. To report a downed wire, call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour Electric Service number at 800-490-0075 or call 911.

For additional safety tips, visit psegliny.com/safetyandreliability/ safetytips.

PSEG LONG ISLAND - PSEG Long Island’s brand new Mobile Electric Safety Unit teaches electric safety to children, adults and first responders. To request a demonstration in your community, visit psegliny.com/ inthecommunity.

Did You Know?

According to Harvard Health Publications, people who routinely volunteer are less likely than non-volunteers to develop cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure. Community service is a great way to strengthen one’s community and build relationships with neighbors. But the benefits of volunteering go beyond building communities. Studies have found that individuals who volunteer have lower mortality rates than non-volunteers.

A 2012 study published in the journal Health Psychology found that people who volunteered for self-oriented reasons had similar mortality risk as non-volunteers, while those who volunteered to help others had a lower mortality risk than nonvolunteers.