February 8, 2023 North Massapequa

“LET’S BE BLUNT” - To kick off their collaborative cannabis safety awareness campaign entitled “Let’s Be Blunt,” Partnering in Action and Change for Tomorrow (PACT) and Town of Babylon Cares – two leading community prevention coalitions based on Long Island – held a press conference on January 10, 2023 in Amityville, to announce the new outreach and educational campaign. Pictured: Members from PACT (Partnering In Action Change For Tomorrow), Town of Babylon Cares and local Long Island elected officials join to launch the ‘Let’s Be Blunt’ Campaign on Cannabis Safety.

$23,000 a year in savings* from lighting upgrades means more of this for Long Island.

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When the nonprofit Canine Companions requested a free energy assessment, we discovered that installing LED fixtures and other energy efficiency measures could save them nearly $2,000 a month. And with available PSEG Long Island rebates, the installation was affordable. Today, those changes have meant more funds for the mission of providing service dogs to Long Islanders with disabilities. And that means a better Long Island for us all. *Actual

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Shoreline Petroleum is a major oil dealer on Long Island providing discount fuel to residents and businesses in Nassau and Suffolk County; we offer on-line fuel ordering, delivery, and full service heating oil contracts.

Shoreline Petroleum takes pride in supplying fuel you need to heat your home and/or office to the comfort level you desire. Winter can be long and brutal, and should your burner fail to start it can become a crucial disaster. It is comforting to have full service during this disruption by contacting us by telephone or Email, no matter what the weather outside.

Celebrating 67 years in business, we are grateful to the many generations of loyal customers who have entrusted Shoreline Petroleum with their interior comfort. Thank you.

Pre-Registration Period Now Open For 2023 Town Summer Recreation Program

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announce that residents interested in having their children participate in the 2023 Summer Recreation Program can now upload necessary documents and materials for review in advance of the final registration period. This process is mandatory prior to registration this spring and will be performed fully online. This year’s Summer

Recreation Program will once again include fullday options as well as the traditional program for children ages 4 through 12. Space is limited at each facility.

“The Town’s Summer Recreation Program features great summer fun for children at six of our Town parks, with activities including arts and crafts, various games, themed days, water fun, scavenger hunts and so much more,” said Supervisor Saladino.

“To help streamline the registration process this year, residents will be able to sign-up their children online this spring, and can begin pre-registration today!”

All registrations for Summer Recreation will performed online this year. In an effort to simplify the process, the Town’s Parks Department is now accepting all necessary documentation, including proof of residency, child’s birth certificates, recent physicals etc. to be uploaded to a portal on the Town’s website prior to the final registration period this spring. This process is mandatory and ends on March 15th. Once all documentation is properly uploaded, parents/guardians will receive notification of approval to register, as well as directions for online registration. How to upload materials (note: pre-registration does not guarantee a spot in this year’s Summer Recreation Program. Parents will need to perform final registration this spring)

• Parents/guardians can visit www.oysterbaytown. com/parksportal

• Select ‘My Account’ on the top right corner and log-in or create a new account (if your child was registered for the 2022 Summer Program, you already have an account, however documents must be uploaded)

• After logging in, select ‘My Account,’ then Household & Member. Confirm all family members are listed. If needed, select ‘Add Family member’ at bottom of page and add a child or guardian to the household. Then SAVE

• Select DOCUMENT UPLOAD from the portal

Continued On 24

GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

The Chamber of Commerce of the Massapequas

www.massapequachamber.org

(516) 541-1443

Thursday - February 16th | 12 Noon

Sal’s Place

1495 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa 516-731-3417

LUNCH $25 $30 For Members For Non-Members

Registration: Pre-Payment is Appreciated - Visit www.massapequachamber.org to Register and Pre-Pay. Cash & Checks will also be accepted at the door - if paying at the door, please e-mail masscoc@aol.com to RSVP, as a headcount is needed. We appreciate your consideration!

Meeting Highlight: Annual Fire ghters of the Year Awards Meeting Sponsor: The Zabbia Insurance Agency

Bird Walk At Massapequa Preserve

Join the South Shore Audubon Society on a bird walk on Sunday, February 12, starting at 9 AM, at the Massapequa Preserve.

The group will meet in the northeast parking lot at the Massapequa Railroad Station. The preserve is directly east of the parking lot.

Rain or snow will cancel the bird walk.

All are welcome. Walk leaders and other birders and nature enthusiasts will be happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. The bird walk is free of charge. Bring binoculars .

To register, text your name and contact information to Joe Landesberg at 516 4679498. We follow Covid protocols in effect at the time of walk.

Town Of Oyster Bay And U.S. Marine Corps Celebrate The Success Of Toys For Tots

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, and Town Board members recognized the incredible work of retired United States Marine Major Chuck Kilbride by celebrating the Town’s recent success of the Toys for Tots program. Toys for Tots Collection Drive, held annually in conjunction with the

United States Marine Corps., benefits needy families and less fortunate children throughout the community, delivering new, unwrapped toys during the holiday season. The Toys for Tots Drive has been a huge success year in and year out here in the Town of Oyster Bay. This year’s Drive was especially crucial, as so

many families experienced a financial burden, as a result of the pandemic. Through the Town’s ‘Cruise-Thru’ Drive which was held at John Burns Park in Massapequa and collection sites set up throughout Town facilities, the Town of Oyster Bay collected a record number of 31,000 toys this year!

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BROOKHAVEN ANIMAL SHELTER • 300 HORSEBLOCK ROAD, BROOKHAVEN • 631.451.6950

TIMMY

1-2 year old male. He is very playful with lots of energy.

NICHIE

LITTLE SHELTER • 33 WARNER ROAD, HUNTINGTON • 631.368.8770

ARCHIE

12 year old male. Pug. A charming senior, ready to be your truest friend.

ABRIL

IZZY

2 year old female.

ULTRA

2 year old female. Boxer mix. Quick-witted with a good sense of humor.

To inquire about having your shelter included in this column, email info@longislandmediagroup.com!

Terrier mix. Lights up around other dogs and loves to play.

1 year old male. Labrador mix. Shy girl with a sweet and gentle presence.

February Happenings

Saturday, February 11 5:30PM-8:30PM

Snowball Dinner

$10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children. Free for children 3 and under. Dinner held at The Westminster United Presbyterian Church. Tickets are limited. Call 631-661-6740 for tickets and more information.

Saturday, February 11

9:30AM-11:00AM

Bereavement Support Group

For 9 weeks at Our Lady Of Grace Church. Starting on February 11th and ends on April 8th. Call John 631-874-0210 or Fran 631-587-1578 for more information.

Saturday, February 11

22nd Annual WinterFest

Free admission. Arts and crafts for kids, free entertainment and more at Levittown Hall. For more information contact levittowncouncil@yahoo. com.

Saturday, Februrary 11

4:00PM-6:00PM

February Family Fun Day

For children 3 to 12 years old with an adult. There will be crafts, a scavengar hunt and more. Free event located at Community Presbyterian Church. Registration is required as space is limited. Call 631-242-0221 for more information.

Saturday, Februrary 11

2:00PM-3:00PM

Estate Planning

Learn tips and tricks to keep your family out of probate court at Amityville Community University. Trusts, Wills, Health Proxy and more will be covered as well. Email npmorgan@ft.newyorklife.com or visit https://ACU-estate.eventbrite. com to register

Sunday, Februrary 12 9:00AM-3:00PM

Items listed are free of charge. Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run in the calendar on a space available basis. For further information, call 631.226.2636, extension 211 or send events to nataliealmeida@longislandmediagroup.com

Bellport Blood Drive

Located at the Bellport Community Center. Call 800-933-2566 or email mgatto@nybc.org to make an appointment.

Sunday, Februrary 12 10:00AM-11:30AM 12:00PM-1:30PM

Valentine's Day Card Exchange

Sensory Beans Inc. in Wantagh will be hosting their annual Valentine's Day Friends Card Exchange. $35 per child. Contact 516-308-1462 for more information.

Tuesday, Februrary 14

6:00PM & 7:00PM

Western Suffolk BOCES’ Board Meeting

The meeting will be held at the Western Suffolk BOCES’ Administrative Offices. Proposal Executive Section, subject to Board approval. Public portion beginning with Item Number 1 on the Agenda. Call 631-549-4900 ext. 223 for more information.

Wednesday, Februrary 15

7:00PM-10:00PM

Hard Luck Café Concert

Tracy Walton and Sierra West, singer-songwriters will be featured. Tickets are $20 ($15 for Cinema Arts Centre/FMSH members) and can be purchased online at https:// cinemaartscentre.org or at the Cinema Arts Centre box office now until the event. The concert will be followed by an open mic. For more information visit https://fmsh.org

Thursday, Februrary 16

7:00PM Keep Islip Clean General Meeting

Join KIC for their next general meeting in the Ballroom at Brookwood Hall in East Islip. This pertains to the beauti cation and

maintenance throughout the Town of Islip. Information and volunteer opportunities available. Contact Keep Islip Clean at 631-224-2627 or keepislipclean@optonline.net.

Friday, Februrary 17

10:00AM

Fire Island Frolic

A six mile hike to the Lighthouse at Robert Moses State Park. Meet at east end of Field 5 near the boardwalk entrance. Possible Robert Moses State Park Fee $10.00 or free with an Empire Pass. Contact Sal at 631-235-2059 or sailingsals60@gmail.com.

Saturday, Februrary 18

3:00PM

Valentine's Day Concert

Kathryn Wilson, a soprano soloist will be featured. The concert will be held at Grace United Methodist Church. A free-will offering will be taken. Contact 631-226-8690 for more information.

Monday, Februrary 20

9:00AM-12:00PM

Winter Break Camp

Starting February 20th and ends on February 24th. Children can have fun during their winter break with hands-on experiments and more at The Long Island Explorium. Grades: 3rd-6th. $375 per camper. Email lisa@longislandexplorium.org for more information.

Tuesday, Februrary 21

6:00PM

February Board Of Trustees Meeting

The Board of Trustees of the North Babylon Public Library will hold its February meeting. The public is invited to attend. Call 631-669-4020 for more information.

Helping You Help Others

By Noelle Lambert

The Charity of the Month for February is The Corporate Source

www.thecorporatesource.org

Based in Garden City, observing 27 years of service, The Corporate Source (TCS) has a presence throughout the Greater New York Metro Region, along with the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. They create value for individuals with disabilities by providing well paying jobs along with the necessary training, job coaching and support to be successful in the workplace. TCS creates value to companies and organizations by providing important outsourcing services and by increasing diversity at these sites.

With nearly 400 employees, this organization provides services such as janitorial, maintenance, call center services, mail room and courier, and kennel services to federal, state and public organizations. Recently, TCS moved into another area o ering tremendous growth potential for individuals with disabilities - Information Technology (IT).

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected a 12 percent growth rate in the IT field between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. In December 2022, employers across the United States listed over 18,000 open positions for IT support specialists, according to CompTIA’s monthly “Tech Jobs Report.” This expressed demand on the part of potential employers is echoed by the disability community, which has expressed tremendous interest in the IT sector.

TCS has partnered in a key initiative with CompTIA to train and certify people with disabilities for lucrative positions in the IT field. The “TCS IT Training and A+ Certification Program” is a comprehensive 13 week program with instruction provided virtually with individualized support for program participants that is provided by TCS’ Vocational Rehabilitation unit. The structure of the training is adapted to meet the needs and learning

styles of the participants. At the conclusion of the virtual classroom, instruction students will have the opportunity to earn two professional certifications – CompTIA IT Fundamentals, an introduction to basic IT knowledge and skills, and CompTIA A+, the industry standard for establishing a career in IT. The objective is to teach marketable IT skills, along with appropriate work behaviors, to ensure that graduates will be qualified for jobs such as: help desk technicians, desktop support people and field technicians who assist with hardware and equipment setup.

At their 2022 Long Island SummIT Awards Dinner, The Long Island Software & Technology Network recognized TCS for its innovative e orts and leadership to recruit people with disabilities to fulfill IT sector jobs.

On February 28, 2023, the second class coming through the TCS IT Training & Certification Program will be graduating. These graduates who are mainly from Nassau and Su olk counties are eager to begin their careers!

One of the initial graduates, Ayisat, expressed that she was thrilled to take advantage of this opportunity to further her career. She had been working for TCS as a Telephone Operator for the Veterans Administration Hospital in Manhattan when she was approached by her manager about the opportunity to participate in the IT Training Program. After successfully completing the program and obtaining her certifications, Ayisat secured a job as a Help Desk Technician. She is now working remotely and excited about her career potential.

Do you know of a company that would benefit by hiring one of their IT Program graduates? Would you like to learn more about this program? Please contact Ruth-Ann Gater at Ruth-Ann. Gater@thecorporatesource.org if so and stay tuned for next week’s article to learn more about TCS.

If your nonprofit would like to be featured in this column, please call Noelle Lambert at 631.226.2636 x225 for consideration.

Local Foundation, Big Mission

The Chloe Belle Foundation is a local non-profit organization started by the family of Chloe. Chloe was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia at the age of 25. She underwent countless treatments, but unfortunately the cancer only progressed. It eventually invaded her spine and left her paralyzed and in immense pain. Thirteen months later, Chloe passed away at home beside her family.

Chloe left a huge impact on those around her, she prioritized the happiness of others and brought joy wherever she went. The Lindberg Family started this foundation as a way to honor Chloe and continue her work here on earth. The mission of the Chloe Belle Foundation is to support children and young adults who have also been diagnosed with cancer, and offer them the same joy and light that Chloe herself was.

Remi Lindberg, President of The Chloe Belle Foundation said, “We have big goals for the foundation. I want Chloe to live on forever. She deserves

that. Most importantly, I want to bring Chloe’s kindness and love to the world on a large scale.”

The Chloe Belle Foundation will begin selling merchandise starting this February to benefit the foundation. They also will be hosting their annual toy drive in the spring, and will have more information on the event soon.

They will be collaborating with Mario’s Pizzeria in East Northport on February 21, 2023. When customers order on that day and mention The Chloe Belle Foundation, their foundation will receive 20% from the pre-tax sale.

To keep up with The Chloe Belle Foundation or to donate please visit their website at https:// thechloebellefoundation.org or follow them on Instagram @ thechloebellefoundation.

For more information, please reach out to Remi, President of The Chloe Belle Foundation at remilindberg. tcbf@gmail.com

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3 Foot Hero (Italian, American or Chicken Cutlet w/ Fresh Mozzarella & Roasted Peppers - Unsliced) PLUS 3 Pounds of Homemade Salad (Macaroni, Potato or Coleslaw)

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3 Foot Hero (Italian, American or Chicken Cutlet w/ Fresh Mozzarella & Roasted Peppers - Unsliced)

3 Pounds of Homemade Salad (Macaroni, Potato or Coleslaw)

1/2 Tray of Wings (Buffalo, BBQ or Teriyaki) PLUS 1/2 Tray of Mini Rice Balls $179 99 plus

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3 Pounds of Homemade Salad (Macaroni, Potato or Coleslaw)

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1/2 Tray of Mini Rice Balls PLUS 1/2 Tray of Penne ala Vodka $ 229 99 plus tax

All hero’s are made on our fresh store baked bread. We only use Boar’s Head Brand Cold Cuts. Must place order by Feb. 9th. order

Town Awards $1 Million In Grants To Small Businesses; Encourages More To Apply

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with Councilwoman Michele Johnson, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato to officially award the first $1 million dollars of grant monies available to local businesses and not for profits through the Oyster Bay Forward Program. Oyster Bay Forward offers up to $5,000 to small businesses and non-profits finally impacted by the COVID pandemic, with a total of $4.5 million available.

“After a year-plus long pandemic and now facing an economic recession, small businesses need help and we’re pleased to offer these Federal funds to boost small business owners and not for profits,” said Supervisor Saladino. “There is still funding available, and we encourage all business owners and non-profits to apply for funding to help them recover losses from the pandemic and keep their operations moving

forward in the Town of Oyster Bay.”

The ‘Oyster Bay Forward’ Grant Program is open to businesses that employ up to 50 full-time equivalent W-2 employees as well as sole proprietors. Additional eligibility criteria:

o Applicant must be the principal (i.e. majority owner);

o Entity must be a forprofit business, or 501c3 or 501c19 non-profit organization, with annual revenue between $35,000 and $5 million;

o At least 60 percent of non-profit expenses must have been programmatic in 2019;

o Applicant must be in operation at the time of application and have been in operation prior to January 1, 2021;

o Must have fewer than 50 full-time equivalent W-2 employees;

o Certification and demonstration of economic hardship due to pandemic; and

o Not be in default or arrears on past or current federal and state financing or funding programs.

“Grant monies can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including expenses that helped mitigate hardships caused by the pandemic,” said Councilwoman Vicki Walsh. “These could include the purchase of inventory and supplies, rent payments, utilities, property taxes, lease or purchase of equipment, as well as operating and emergency maintenance. We encourage all businesses and non-profits to sign up today.”

Applications are processed through the National Development Council (NDC) – who was retained by the Town to administer the Oyster Bay Forward Grant Program. Additional eligibility criteria, including required documents, as well as applications for eligible business and nonprofit organizations are available at TOBForward. com, where interested parties can also view an informative webinar further detailing the application process.

TOWN AWARDS $1 MILLION IN GRANTS TO SMALL BUSINESSES -

Supervisor

million

businesses

Saladino joins with Town officials and local business owners to award the first $1

in grant monies to

in the Town of Oyster Bay through the Oyster Bay Forward Program. Shown are Jericho Cider Mill owners Kerry and Ted Ketsoglou, Syosset-Woodbury Chamber of Commerce President Russell Greene, Supervisor Saladino, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca, Councilwoman Michele Johnson and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato.

“Let’s Be Blunt”

Cannabis Safety Awareness Campaign Brings Attention To Responsible Cannabis Use For Long Islanders

To kick off their collaborative cannabis safety awareness campaign entitled “Let’s Be Blunt,” Partnering in Action and Change for Tomorrow (PACT) and Town of Babylon Cares – two leading community prevention coalitions based on Long Island – held a press conference on January 10, 2023 in Amityville, New York to announce the new outreach and educational campaign.

As a society, keeping our youth, families and community members safe is of paramount importance. Now that cannabis is legal for recreational adult use and licensed sale in New York State for those 21 years of age or older, Nassau County-based PACT and Suffolk County-based Town of Babylon Cares have banded together to provide education and awareness about properly securing cannabis and not driving while under the influence.

Set to launch this month, the landmark cross-county cannabis campaign entitled “Let’s Be Blunt” includes outreach through local print media outlets, digital marketing, radio public service messages and social media. The first ad in the campaign, featuring imagery of an effective way to properly secure cannabis at home, emphasizes the message “Don’t let youth get high on your supply. Keep it secure.” The second ad shows a cannabis user getting a ride from friends and the message “Don’t drive high. Get a ride.”

Multiple sectors of community partners contributed to the messaging to ensure it resonates with the public and families to encourage keeping cannabis in a secure place in the home and deterring people from operating a vehicle after smoking or consuming edible cannabis products.

Regulations regarding

“LET’S BE BLUNT” - Members from PACT (Partnering In Action Change For Tomorrow), Town of Babylon Cares and local Long Island elected officials join to launch the ‘Let’s Be Blunt’ Campaign on Cannabis Safety (L to R): Guy Calla, Suffolk County Legislative Chief of Staff for Legislator Kevin McCaffrey, Michael A. Lavorata, Mayor, Incorporated Village of Lindenhurst, Tom Donnelly, Suffolk County Legislator, Thomas McKevitt, Nassau County Legislator, Tricia Olszewski, Project Coordinator, Lindy Cares, Pamela Mizzi, MS, CASAC II, LMHC, Director, Long Island Prevention Resource Center at Family Service League, Nikola Segoloni, Project Director, Lindy Cares, Lori-Ann Novello, MSW, CASACt, Executive Director, Town of Babylon Cares and Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition, Inc. (Lindy Cares), Hillary Alvarez, MPH, CHES, Prevention Coordinator, PACT, Adrienne LoPresti, LCSW-R, Executive Director, YES Community Counseling Center, Rich Schaffer, Town of Babylon Supervisor, DuWayne Gregory, Town of Babylon Councilman, Maureen McCormick, Special Litigation Assistant District Attorney, Suffolk County DA’s Office

the sale of cannabis products locally and statewide are currently being finalized, and the first cannabis retailer on Long Island is slated to open early this year. While recreational adult-use cannabis is legal, it is critical to be aware that the following are illegal: It is illegal for those under age 21 to consume cannabis recreationally in any form. Adults should keep cannabis products secure and away from youth and pets to prevent accidental consumption.

It is illegal to consume cannabis in a motor vehicle and to drive under the influence of cannabis. Drivers who are under the influence should get a ride from a designated driver or car service.

Speakers at the “Let’s Be Blunt: Cannabis Safety Awareness Campaign Press Conference” shared key points and messaging

of the campaign, impact statements, and how the coalitions are working together to educate parents and the public on ways to secure and use cannabis responsibly.

Speakers included: Pamela Mizzi, MS, CASAC II, LMHC – Director, Long Island Prevention Resource Center at Family Service League; Hillary Alvarez, MPH, CHES – Prevention Coordinator, PACT; LoriAnn Novello, MSW, CASACt – Executive Director, Town of Babylon Cares and Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition, Inc. (Lindy Cares); Maureen McCormick – Special Litigation Assistant District Attorney, Suffolk County DA’s Office; Adrienne LoPresti, LCSW-R –Executive Director, YES Community Counseling Center; Tom McKevitt –Nassau County Legislator; and Rich Schaffer – Town of

Babylon Supervisor. Educational materials and messaging about properly securing cannabis can be found by visiting either of two websites: https:// pactyes.org/lets-be-blunt or https://babyloncares.org/ lets-be-blunt/

About Town of Babylon Cares

Town of Babylon Cares was formed to provide an opportunity for the community’s residents, parents, youth, business owners, and organizations to come together to offer awareness, knowledge, and education to prevent underage drinking and substance misuse among youth and adults. The coalition works to create a nurturing environment and encourage citizens to take responsibility for community members.

BABYLON CARES Project is designed to bring the villages and hamlets in

the Town of Babylon to work together on mutually beneficial projects to create global population level change to reduce substance misuse among youth across borders. For more information or to get involved, visit www. babyloncares.org.

About Partnering in Action and Change for Tomorrow (PACT)

YES Community Counseling Center’s PACT (Partnering In Action and Change For Tomorrow) is funded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (SAMHSA-CSAP). PACT is comprised of five communities and school districts (Farmingdale, Island Trees, Levittown, Massapequa and Plainedge) including collaboration with Farmingdale

Alcohol Drug Abuse and Prevention Team (ADAPT), Levittown Community Action Coalition (LCAC), Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC), as well as the Long Island Prevention Resource Center (LIPRC), Nassau County Police Department and National Guard Counter Drug Task Force. PACT addresses our nation’s top substance abuse prevention priorities among persons aged 9-20 – underage drinking, marijuana, and opioid use. PACT seeks to understand patterns of youth and young adult underage drinking and substance use to best address targeted prevention, training, education and outreach. For more information about how communities are working together to promote healthy youth, contact PACT at (516) 7993203, ext. 131, or email pact@yesccc.org.

LIPA Announces New Community College Scholarship

Officials from the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) joined with representatives from Nassau Community College and Suffolk County Community College to announce a new community college scholarship program. The LIPA Scholarship is designed to provide education and training for students from households with incomes below the median income of Long Island and the Rockaways (approximately $100,000 for a family of four) living in historically underserved communities.

The LIPA Scholarship is a $350,000 commitment over the next five years to provide 50 full scholarships for students to attend either Nassau Community College or Suffolk County Community College to obtain an associate degree or certificate that will help them pursue a career in the electric utility or clean energy sectors.

This investment is an effort to ensure that our workforce represents all the communities LIPA serves and that all of our customers can participate in the growing career opportunities available in the electric utility and clean energy industry.

Thomas Falcone, Chief Executive Officer of LIPA, said: “Electricity is the clean fuel of the future. Studies predict electricity will provide more than 70 percent of New York’s energy needs by 2050 and that it will be entirely carbon-free. With this growing industry, LIPA’s commitment to fund 50 scholarships at Nassau and Suffolk Community College over the next five years will ensure that our workforce represents all the communities LIPA serves and that all our customers can participate in the fabulous and growing career opportunities available in the electric sector.”

Dr. Maria Conzatti,

Interim President of Nassau Community College, said: “Together with LIPA, Nassau Community College is pleased to meet the workforce development needs of our business partners and the educational aspirations of the Long Island community.”

Dr. Edward T. Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College, said: “The Long Island Power Authority’s generous scholarships will help us recruit and sustain students entering the STEM fields, transforming our workforce and our region’s economy. With this support, LIPA joins the college in bridging our promising students from financial need to the high-need, high-wage disciplines that lead to a rewarding career.”

The curricula offered at Nassau Community College and Suffolk County Community College include courses relevant to the work LIPA does to meet the clean energy goals set by New York’s Climate Act, as well as to fulfill LIPA’s mission of providing clean, reliable, and affordable energy to Long Island and the Rockaways.

The LIPA Scholarship will support income-qualified, graduating high school seniors, allowing them to extend their educational development and enter the utility and clean energy sectors. Participation in the LIPA Scholarship will provide graduates with a competitive edge in applying for employment at LIPA and its contractor, PSEG Long Island, who plan to hire hundreds of entry-level workers over the next five years.

This five-year program will provide annual funding for ten full-time, two-year scholarships for low- to moderateincome students who reside in disadvantaged communities, as identified by New York’s Climate Justice Working Group,

planning to attend Nassau Community College or Suffolk County Community College. Residents of the following communities served by LIPA are eligible for the LIPA Scholarship:

Nassau County

· Westbury Village, New Cassel, Elmont, Hempstead Village, Uniondale, East Meadow, Valley Stream Village, South Valley Stream, Inwood, Oceanside, Roosevelt, Long Beach City, Glen Cove City, and East Massapequa.

Suffolk County

· Huntington Station, East Farmingdale, Wyandanch, West Babylon, North Amityville, Copiague, Lindenhurst Village, Brentwood, Islandia Village, Bay Shore, North Bay Shore, Central Islip, Ridge, Patchogue Village, Yaphank, Shirley, Mastic, Calverton, Flanders, Westhampton Beach Village, and Tuckahoe.

Queens County

· The Rockaways.

Awardees of LIPA’s Scholarship will have the opportunity to:

· Obtain a scholarship toward an associate degree or certificate program at either Nassau Community College or Suffolk County Community College.

· Attend LIPA Workforce Seminars with utility executives and subject matter experts.

· Receive job placement support for available positions at LIPA, PSEG Long Island, and other LIPA contractors and suppliers.

The first recipients of the scholarship are expected to be announced in 2023. To learn more about the program, please visit www. lipower.org.

The announcement was held on November 8, 2022 at the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center in Wantagh, an educational facility that LIPA maintains in partnership with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Lustgarten Foundation

(NAPSI)—The world’s largest private funder of pancreatic cancer research, the Lustgarten Foundation, is dedicated to curing this devastating disease—and you can help with a donation. To learn more about the condition and what you can do, visit www.lustgarten.org or call toll-free 866-789-1000.

LIPA ANNOUNCES NEW COMMUNITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP - From left to right: Dr. Edward T. Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College; Thomas Falcone, Chief Executive Officer of LIPA; and Dr. Maria Conzatti, Interim President of Nassau Community College

Three Cheers For Massapequa’s Challenger Squad

A performance for a packed house was a shining moment for students on the Massapequa School District’s Challenger cheerleading team. The team was chosen to showcase their routine at a recent Nassau County cheerleading competition.

Ed Hoffman, the physical education chairman and athletic coordinator at

Berner Middle School, said that this was a new opportunity for the Challenger cheerleading squad, which normally cheers at Challenger basketball games. The team is comprised of students from grades 6-12, led by coaches Dr. Lauren Dean and Kathleen Wegener.

Mr. Hoffman said he

reached out to the Nassau County public school cheerleading coordinator, who enthusiastically gave the green light for Massapequa’s squad to perform in between the middle school and high school portions of the Jan. 7 competition at Wantagh High School. With middle school and high school squads in the building, as

well as coaches and families, they performed for a sizable crowd.

“It was awesome,” Mr. Hoffman said. “The students had a great time. They were able to perform for a much larger audience, surrounded by people from different towns and high schools, which made it very special.”

Students from the Best

Buddies club, which has chapters at Berner, Ames and the high school, worked with cheerleaders to help practice their routine, and also attended the Jan. 7 performance to show their support.

Mr. Hoffman, the Nassau County coordinator for the Challenge sports league, said that there is a

soccer program in the fall, along with basketball and cheerleading in the winter season. This coming spring, a track and field program will be added.

“There’s something special about being part of a team within your school,” he said, “and that’s what Challenger sports provides our students.”

THREE CHEERS FOR MASSAPEQUA’S CHALLENGER

cheerleading competition at Wantagh High School. Photo courtesy

Take Heart With Tea

An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but a recent study found drinking tea might keep the cardiologist at bay.

The USDA reported that men and women who drank black tea for three weeks reduced their total and bad

cholesterol (LDL) levels by an average of 7.5 percent. Researchers concluded that drinking tea may reduce the

risk of coronary heart disease. Antioxidants called flavonoids, found in both green and black teas, are thought to

be potent weapons in the fight against heart disease.

That news may be especially important

for women, given that heart disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined including breast cancer.

SQUAD - Massapequa High School’s Challenger cheerleading squad performed at the Jan. 7 Nassau County

of the Massapequa School District

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United States Air Force Thunderbirds To Headline

19th Annual Bethpage Air Show At Jones Beach Taking Place May 27-28, 2023

Bethpage Federal Credit Union, New York State’s largest credit union, and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, are pleased to announce that the United States Air Force Thunderbirds will headline the 19th Annual Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach taking place on Saturday, May 27, 2023 and Sunday, May 28, 2023. This will be the demonstration team’s 9th performance at the Bethpage Air Show.

It was announced at the annual International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Convention yesterday that the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and the United States Marine Corps F35B Lighting II will be performing, along with the world famous Skytpers, Long Island’s David Windmiller and Mike Goulian, North America’s most decorated aerobatic pilot.

“Last year, we were very grateful that the Thunderbirds changed their schedule to perform for us on Memorial Day, after the Saturday and Sunday weekend shows were rained out,” said George Gorman, Regional Director, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “Suffice to say, we couldn’t be happier to welcome the team back to Long Island for our 2023 show!”

“The Bethpage Air Show continues to be one of New York’s most treasured events,” said Linda Armyn, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, Bethpage Federal Credit Union. “After 19 years, the pilots and performers, show organizers and fans have grown to become a big family. We look forward to organizing a very special show for our fans this year.”

It was also announced that the United States Navy Blue Angels will return as headliners for the special 20th Anniversary Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach, which will take place on Saturday, May 25, 2024 and Sunday, May 26, 2024.

Additional 2023 performers will be announced shortly.

Pre-Registration Period Now Open For 2023 Town Summer Recreation Program

Continued From 5

(for full-day campers only)

Councilwoman Walsh.

of fun!”

of residency (tax or utility bill)

o Child’s Birth Certificate

o Child’s Immunization Records (for full-day campers only)

o Child’s recent physical

Additional information, assistance and instructions are available by visiting the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/ summerrecreation or by calling the Recreation Office at (516) 797-7945.

“We know many of our youngsters can’t wait for the warm weather and all the fun they have at the Town’s Summer Recreation Program,” said

“With full-day options again available at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa, Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park and Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, as well as our traditional programs at Ellsworth Allen Park in Farmingdale, Harry Tappen Beach in Glen Head and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay, we look forward to another successful summer

The mandatory preregistration period, during which interested parents/ guardians can upload documents and required materials for registration, is open now through March 15th. Submission of materials does not guarantee a spot in the 2023 program – parents must complete their registration this spring when final registration opens.

Parents will receive an

email from the Recreation Division confirming that all documents have been received, as well as directions on how to complete registration. All registration will take place online. For more information, visit www. oysterbaytown.com/ summerrecreation or call the Town’s Recreation Office at (516) 797-7945.

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