On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Lice Lifters of Nassau County, at 1400A Wantagh Ave. in Wantagh. On hand for the celebration were, left to right: Al Iaquinta of Al Iaquinta Real Estate, Connie Conway, Wantagh Chamber of Commerce Trustee, Michael Sennett, Leg. Aide for Senator Steve Rhoads, Kayla Knight, Representative for Councilman Chris Schneider, Lice Lifters of Nassau County Owner Michael Rakeman, Wantagh Chamber of Commerce President Cathy Powell, Lice Lifters Manager, Noami Quintanilla, Amara Booker, Daughter of Noami Quintanilla, Brian Schiele, Owner of Lice Lifters of Nassau County, Kate Murray, TOH Town Clerk, and Pete Stassi.
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The Mount Sinai Health System is committed to providing Long Island with exceptional, patient-centered health care, and has invested in your community with our state-of-the-art multispecialty practice in Wantagh.
Mount Sinai-Wantagh offers:
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You will also gain access to the full resources of the Mount Sinai Health System, including the latest treatments, clinical trials, and research.
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Our goal is to provide an optimal patient experience and keep the South Shore healthy.
By Deb Colton
The Kiwanis Club of Wantagh is looking ahead to a fall filled with many service projects and we would love to have some more residents join us.
Recently members from the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh attended the KPTC – Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center Foundation’s annual Black & White Ball. The foundation supports pediatric trauma efforts at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park and Stony Brook Children’s Hospital in Stony Brook, as well as programs throughout Long Island. The mission continues to protect the safety of children and to improve the ability of local emergency medical services response teams.
The foundation’s mission is to work with and support Level 1 pediatric trauma center hospitals on Long Island. This is the highestlevel trauma designation by the New York State Department of Health, after meeting the rigorous standards of the American College of Surgeons.
The foundation raises funds throughout the year which allows it to respond to requests from the two children’s hospitals, as well as for community and child safety education, and other efforts designed to both prevent injuries in children and to assist the hospitals which treat the children.
The next Kiwanis Club of Wantagh service project this fall will be our annual beach cleanup at Jones Beach along with the Wantagh High School Kiwanis Key Club. It is a great morning working side by side with the next generation that will inherit our responsibility to preserve and protect
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE Kiwanis Club Of Wantagh Falling into Service for our Community
our natural resources.
Wantagh is known as the Gateway to Jones Beach, so it is important to educate students to become the next stewards of one or our island’s jewels.
November 15th from 10:00 AM to 1:30PM the Wantagh Kiwanis Club will hold another Food Drive at King Kullen on Wantagh Avenue. The holiday season presents added financial pressure on families that want to celebrate but may be feeling the financial pinch more than ever. The food and funds collected are given to two local Wantagh pantries: St. Francis and St. Jude Episcopal Churches. The community is always so generous at our food drives, and we hope you will join us again so that together we can help families that continue to struggle with food insecurity. Every gesture small and large helps feed hungry children in our community.
November 29th kicks off the holiday season with the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh joining many other local organizations and vendors at the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce’s 7th Annual Winter Wonderland. We have heard that the jolly Claus’s will be coming down for some holiday cheer to see all the children in Wantagh again this year. The event is on the grounds of the Wantagh Preservation Society. As in years past, this is a spirited event for families, friends and pets that culminates with the tree lighting ceremony. Stop by the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh’s booth and have your children make cards for sick kids in the hospital and a new effort this year to create cards for seniors in assisted living and rehabilitation facilities.
When separated from family and friends during health issues, these personal cards offer some much-needed love, hope and kindness. Even when coming from a stranger, the messages and drawings lift spirits and bring joy.
As the holiday season moves through December you will find members of the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh ringing the Salvation Army bell for a few nights at Iavarone’s. The Salvation Army collects funds all year long, but the holiday kettle and bells became a tradition long ago that the Wantagh Club along with the Wantagh High School Key Club proudly continue each year. Fall has come upon us quickly and with it there are so many wonderful opportunities to join the community in helping others, celebrating, and reflecting. One of the wonderful groups I have met through my Kiwanis volunteerism is Camp Good Mourning. The camp runs for a few weekends in the spring and fall on Shelter Island at Camp Quinipet. Camp Good Mourning helps children 7 to 17 who have lost a parent, guardian or sibling adjust to their new reality. With trained professionals and volunteers, some from the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh, children get the opportunity to interact with other kids that are experiencing the same struggles. Camp Good Mourning! is Long Island’s only 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides free overnight, weekend bereavement camp programs.
As a ten-year-old my father passed suddenly and back then there were not any organizations or
support groups to help me find my way. My mother was a strong and devoted parent. She did everything she could to be both mother and father, but there were many times that I felt like I was the only child with only one parent. I recall one extremely specific school event a few months after my dad died that has stayed with me my entire life. My elementary school held a Father-Child athletic night. I remember looking around the gym filled with Dad’s and kids and realizing that I was the only student with my mom next to me. It made me stand out and feel awkward, different, and painfully alone. I also recall how uncomfortable my mom looked despite her strength to stand tall despite her own grieving. My father was and always will be my hero. I did not understand how much I missed him until I was much older. Back then I just
felt left out and isolated. As a young child moving forward past my dad’s death each day was all about survival. The sudden redirection in my young life meant I had to grow up quickly to help my mom. Luckily, I had a super human mother that always put us kids first and did everything in her power for the rest of her life devoted to us. We got through it, but it would have been easier with something like Camp Good Mourning to help me cope and realize I was not the only child with these feelings. I was not alone; I just did not know that other kids were living through the same situation. Camp Good Mourning helps children build confidence, allows them to express their fears, sadness, anger, frustration, and learn ways to face and deal with all these new feelings in a productive way. Through the generosity of compassionate people and hundreds of dedicated
and thoroughly trained team members, Camp Good Mourning offers steps to heal a broken heart and to see a new future moving forward. Some things in life are irreversible no matter how much we want to turn back the clock, but with guidance, patience and love even losing your hero is an obstacle a child can move past and flourish. If you want to learn more about Camp Good Mourning for someone you know check out https://www. campgoodmourning.org/ The Kiwanis Club of Wantagh wishes everyone in the community a glorious fall filled with the magnificent colors and scents of the season. We hope to see you over the next few months and invite you to lend some of your time to make the special place we all call home even better. https://www.facebook.com/ KiwanisClubOfWantagh/
FOOTBALL SPECIALS
CARAMEL APPLE MARTINI Van Gogh Dutch, Caramel, Apple Cider, Cinnamon Sugar Rim
BOURBON CIDER SMASH
Jeffersons Bourbon. Apple Cider, Maple Syrup, Lemon Juice, Ginger Ale
Teremana Tequila, Prickly Pear Syrup, Cointreau, Lemonade, Tajin Rum
PUMPKIN SPICE MARTINI
Pumpkin Baileys, Pumpkin Liquor, Vanilla Vodka, Cinnamon Sugar Rim
State Senator Steve Rhoads recently celebrated the achievements of 17 remarkable women at his 3rd Annual Women of Distinction ceremony, held at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Library. The event recognized women whose leadership, dedication, and service have profoundly shaped the communities across his Senate district.
From the moment honorees entered the auditorium to the stirring sound of bagpipes, the energy in the room was electric. Attendees erupted into applause, signaling deep appreciation for the honorees’ contributions.
The ceremony opened with Girl Scout Troop 3009 from Judy Jacobs Parkway Elementary School leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Mairead Hill Hotz of Wantagh performing the National Anthem, and a welcoming prayer from
Local Trailblazers Honored At 3rd Annual Women Of Distinction Ceremony
Reverend Iwy Patel-Yatri and Pastor Rosa Larios of Hicksville United Methodist Church, creating a sense of unity and reverence.
Entertainment added to the celebratory atmosphere, with a lively dance performance by Hollie Werner of 5678 Dance Studio in Levittown and a stirring piano performance by internationally awardwinning pianist Felicia Garramone of Levittown, showcasing the vibrant local arts community.
Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly, a trailblazer in law and justice with more than three decades of experience, delivered the keynote address. Her words inspired the audience, emphasizing the importance of service, perseverance, and using one’s talents to strengthen the community.
Each honoree’s biography was read aloud, highlighting
their unique contributions— from volunteerism and advocacy to leadership in education, business, and the arts. Senator Rhoads personally presented the Women of Distinction awards, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their tireless efforts to improve the quality of life on Long Island.
In his remarks, Senator Rhoads said, “These extraordinary women show us every day that one person’s courage, vision, and dedication can transform a community. Their achievements inspire all of us to work harder, dream bigger, and leave a lasting mark on the world.”
The ceremony concluded with a warm reception, giving attendees the opportunity to connect, share stories, and celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding women. Through this annual event, Senator Rhoads continues
to honor the achievements of community leaders while inspiring future generations to make a meaningful difference in their neighborhoods. Honorees:
Back Row: L-R (Standing) Senator Steve Rhoads, Laura Dupkin Memisha, Catherine Gabreski, Maryanne Hyland, Nanda Sundri, Farah Abidi, Deirdre Trumpy, Gina McGovern, Marie Testa, District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly
Senator Rhoads Leads Successful Self-Care Drive To Support Long Islanders
collecting essential hygiene items to assist neighbors in need across Long Island.
libraries for serving as collection sites, and gave special recognition to
of the community, the drive will provide meaningful support to countless
Front Row: L-R (Sitting) Judith Bongiovi, Jennifer Brien, Janet Goller, Nina Lanci, Dr. Nancy Kaplan, Donna Rivera-Downey, Cheryl Dender, Susan Maher, Shashi Malik.
State Senator Steve Rhoads recently concluded a successful Self-Care Starter Kit Drive,
The Senator expressed his gratitude to the Seaford, Wantagh, Island Trees, and Farmingdale public
summer intern Emily Baum for her dedication in championing the effort. Thanks to the generosity
residents in need.
Students Unite In Gold For Childhood Cancer Awareness
Students took a stand against one of their biggest foes, childhood cancer, by wearing gold on Sept. 18 at Wantagh Elementary School. Teachers and staff also joined in the annual campaign to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. It’s been a long-
standing tradition at the school to devote a day to awareness each September that afflicts nearly 300 newlydiagnosed children and adolescents each week in the United States. Wearing gold and yellow shirts, shorts, pants, socks and accessories, children showed their support for
Third grade teachers Kathlene Tundo, left, and Molly Perrone along with their students wore gold and yellow on Sept. 18 to support Wantagh Elementary School’s annual Childhood Cancer Awareness Month campaign. Photos courtesy of the Wantagh School District
other youngsters who have faced a battle with cancer.
During the morning announcements, students were reminded of the purpose of Go Gold Day – to honor the courage of children facing cancer and supporting research toward curing and preventing the disease.
Versatile Wantagh Seniors Named National Merit Semifinalists
Wantagh High School
seniors Ethan Chen and Liam Fields were named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship
competition. They were among more than 16,000 students nationally to earn the distinction based on their performance on the
PSAT exam.
Ethan and Liam are wellrounded students who have challenged themselves academically while
also getting involved in athletics, extracurricular activities and community service projects.
A product of Forest
Lake Elementary School, Ethan is co-vice president of the Wantagh Animal Rights and Recycling club, president of Science Honor Society, secretary of Math Honor Society, president of National Honor Society, and a member of the Chemistry Club, Key Club, Mathletes, World Language Honor Society and crosscountry, winter track and spring track teams. He plays the cello in the string ensemble and volunteered this past summer at the Wantagh Public Library.
Liam, who got his start at Mandalay Elementary School, is the building manager for Stage Crew, co-captain of the Academic Team, and a member of the bowling team, board game club, WARR club and Business, Math, National, Science and World Language honor societies. Outside of school, he belongs to Boy Scout Troop 656 and earned the Eagle Scout rank by
completing a community service project for Christ Lutheran Church.
After high school, Liam plans to pursue a career in either law or mechanical engineering. Ethan is looking to study either engineering or medicine. Both students said it is exciting to earn the distinction of National Merit semifinalist and potentially earn a college scholarship. Ethan and Liam added that it validates their dedication to their studies and strong work ethic.
The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than 1% of seniors in the United States, and includes the highestscoring entrants from each state. About 95% of semifinalists will advance to finalist standing, and will then compete for more than 6,900 National Merit Scholarships to be awarded in the spring, totaling about $26 million.
Kindergartners incorporated shades of gold and yellow into their attire to support children battling cancer.
Wantagh High School seniors Liam Fields, left, and Ethan Chen were named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship competition. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District
Halloween is enjoyed by people of all ages, but few get a bigger kick out of the holiday than children. There are costumes to be worn, time spent with friends and the opportunity to collect free candy and other treats.
Although Halloween can be a fun time, the Children’s Safety Network warns that it’s also a time when accidents can happen. According to the CSN, the most dangerous day for child pedestrians is Halloween, with two times as many child pedestrians dying on Halloween compared to other days. It is essential to prioritize safety on Halloween, and following these guidelines can help.
• Make sure costumes are short. Costumes that drag on the floor are tripping hazards, which can lead to injury. Be sure that costumes do not cover the feet or drag on the ground.
• Trick-or-treat in groups. Children are safer in
Safe Trick-Or-Treating Tips
numbers due to the increased visibility of a crowd and because, if something happens, others can call for help. Parents can use their discretion on what age they feel is mature enough to let children go out
alone. Until then, children should be accompanied by adults.
• Improve visibility. It’s important to be seen while trick-or-treating, and that can be achieved by making sure costumes and trick-or-treat bags
feature reflective tape. Trick-or-treaters also can carry flashlights or glow sticks to improve visibility, and stick to areas with streetlights if going out after dark.
• Stay on sidewalks. Whenever possible, trick-or-
treaters should stick to the sidewalks and avoid walking on the roads. This may not always be possible in neighborhoods without sidewalks, where parents and youngsters must be especially careful.
• Eat before trick-or-
treating. A meal or snack before trick-or-treating can reduce the tendency to fill up on candy while out and about. All candy and other treats should be inspected by an adult before it is eaten.
• Keep pets locked away. Animals can become skittish when there are many people loitering outside of homes or ringing doorbells. Keep pets in a quiet room away from the action to prevent them from getting loose, injured or scared enough to bite or scratch someone.
• Avoid masks that obstruct vision. It can be hard to see peripherally with a mask on, so avoid costumes with masks that compromise vision.
• Test out makeup beforehand. All makeup used for costumes should be tested for allergic reactions prior to use.
Buddy Bench Creates Friends At Northside School
A newly installed Buddy Bench at Northside School in the Levittown School District will help create new bonds as students combat isolation. The unveiling of the bench on Sept. 18 was during Start With Hello Week, a national
For the second year in a row, Levittown Public Schools’ Division Avenue and General Douglas MacArthur High Schools have been ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, recognizing their exceptional academic excellence and commitment to preparing students for a variety of postsecondary paths.
Both Division and MacArthur received the prestigious honor for their high student participation in AP courses, student performance on staterequired tests, high graduation rates and how well they prepare students for careers beyond graduation. The students of Division – ranked #200 across all New York schools – and MacArthur – ranked
#117 across New York schools – demonstrated outstanding outcomes above expectations, a testament to the strong student support and breadth of opportunities found throughout each building. They stand amongst the top-ranked public high schools of the 18,000 reviewed by U.S. News nationwide.
Levittown students are
Division Avenue High School was ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
should ever feel left out. If a child is feeling lonely, they can sit on the bench and a peer will notice and either join them or invite them to play. The bench was created thanks to the advocacy of the Northside Student Council and School Climate Committee. The entire school community, including district administrators, gathered for the grand Mrs. Case spoke with the school community about the purpose of the bench.
Levittown’s Division And MacArthur named ‘Best High Schools
prepared for diverse career paths through the high schools’ rigorous courses, which include Future Teachers, College Real Estate, College Anatomy and Physiology, and a required course in financial literacy for all graduates. Both Division Avenue and MacArthur host multiple Postsecondary Fairs, offering students a glimpse into the wide range of
opportunities available after graduation, from colleges and universities to military branches and vocational trades. Every experience in Levittown high schools is designed to prepare students for the dynamic, ever-changing world they will enter after graduation.
“We are incredibly proud that both Division and MacArthur have been
recognized among the ‘Best High Schools’ by U.S. News & World Report,” said Superintendent Todd Winch. “Their rankings reflect the unwavering dedication of our educators, staff and families who work together every day to support our students’ success.”
courtesy of Levittown Public Schools
Photos
General Douglas MacArthur High School was ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Division High School Welcomes New Principal, Former Principal Moves Up
The Levittown School District is proud to announce that Jeffrey Myers has been warmly welcomed as the principal of Division Avenue High School. Former Principal John Coscia has been appointed as the new director of health, athletics and physical education.
Mr. Myers comes to Division with a breadth of experience in educational leadership. Mr. Myers is the former principal of Long Beach High School and was previously an assistant principal at Copiague High School. He began his career as a social studies teacher at North Babylon High School in 1994 and later was named dean of discipline at North
Babylon High School. Mr. Myers currently serves as a North Babylon board of education trustee.
“I love working at Division,” Mr. Myers said, “with great students, the most talented staff and superheroes for assistant principals.”
Mr. Coscia served as principal of Division since 2016, during which the school has seen many successes. In athletics, Division soars with a countychampionship winning flag football team and cheer team and numerous teams and athletes that excel each year. While principal, Division was ranked among the best high schools in the
Jeffrey Myers was named Principal of Division Avenue High School for the 2025-26 school year.
nation by U.S. News & World Report for two years in a row.
Mr. Coscia previously served as assistant principal of Division after serving as the dean of students at Scholars’ Academy Middle and High School in Rockaway Park while teaching both Advanced Placement/ Honors U.S. Government and Politics and eighth grade humanities.
“I am thrilled to take on this new role for the Levittown community,” Mr. Coscia said. “Our athletes constantly impress, and I look forward to supporting them throughout each season.”
Photos courtesy of Levittown Public Schools
OCTOBER 2025
Thursday, October 23 6:30-8:30 PM
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS: EMAIL
Learn the basics of how to use email. Registration required at www.levittownpl. org under Upcoming Events. In-person program. No Fee.
Saturday, October 25 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM EMPIRE DEFENSIVE DRIVING CLASS
The Empire Safety Council is offering this 5 ½-hour defensive driving course for licensed drivers. Registration is required at www. levittownpl.org under Upcoming Events. Inperson program. Fee.
MUSIC
Sunday, October 26
2:00-3:30 PM
TRIBE BAND NY
Listen to classic rock songs for all to enjoy! Tickets required. Reserve tickets at www. levittownpl.org-Upcoming Events. This program is in-person. No fee.
Reading Is A Beloved Pastime
Did You Know?
Board games are popular ways to pass the time and socialize with family and friends. Board games have been played for centuries. The oldest board game is believed to have originated in the Middle East. It was discovered at the Royal Cemetery of the Sumerian city of Ur in 1928 by a British archaeologist. Highly decorated boards made of wood and inlaid shell and lapis lazuli were found and believed to be made between 2,600 and 2,400 B.C. The game was dubbed the Royal Game of Ur since its original name wasn’t known.
Reading is a beloved pastime that can positively affect cognitive health and even help to reduce stress. Though those benefits are largely associated with adults, reading can be equally beneficial to children, even those who have yet to learn how to read. According to the Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center, an affiliate of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, infants pick up on language earlier than researchers once realized, and hearing language is important as their brains prepare them to speak. Reading also supports word learning and preliteracy skills in older children. The ECLKC notes that when adults read to children, they typically speak words they would not otherwise use in typical discourse. That helps children expand their vocabularies, even before they learn to read on their own.
John Coscia was named the Director of Health, Athletics and Physical Education for Levittown Schools.
Cold Spring Harbor State Park, Cold Spring Harbor Cold Spring Harbor State Park is located within Cold Spring Harbor Village. The hiking trails are perfect for beginners and moderate hikers. Pets are welcome! The park is at 95 Harbor Rd, Cold Spring Harbor.
Bethpage State Park, Farmingdale
Long Island Hiking Trails Great For The Fall
Bethpage State Park is on the border of Nassau and Suffolk County. Bethpage State Park is most known for golf and has hosted several national championships. There are many trails of varying lengths, perfect for leisurely hikes or biking. The park is at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in Farmingdale.
Sands Point Preserve,
Sands Point
Sands Point Preserve is filled with local history and scenic vistas. Sands Point Preserve has several different areas available for hiking. This includes a mile-long beach as well as forays into the woods. Sands Point Preserve is at 127 Middle Neck Road in Sands Point.
Hempstead Lake State
Park, West Hempstead Hempstead Lake State Park is a great destination for hikers. The area’s natural beauty and relaxed trails make it a perfect spot for waterside hiking. The Hempstead Lake trail brings you throughout much of the park, around the central Hempstead Lake, Nassau County’s largest lake.
Hempstead Lake State Park
is located at Eagle Ave. in West Hempstead.
Sunken Meadow State Park, King’s Park
Sunken Meadow State Park is one of Long Island’s most well-known hiking and beach spots. The threemile waterfront is a beloved hiking area both for its views as well as the variety of the nearby terrain. Connected
to the Long Island Sound with views of Connecticut. The most popular trail will take hikers nearly four miles through the local wildlife.
Sunken Meadow State Park is located at New York State Reference Rte 908K, Kings Park.
To learn more about these parks and others, please visit https://parks.ny.gov/parks/
