February 28, 2024 Seaford

Warning Signs Of

Mental Health Issues

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

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

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

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

include:

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

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

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

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

pain, and even high blood pressure.

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

• Confused thinking or a reduced ability to concentrate.

• Excessive fears or

• Detachment from reality, resulting in delusions.

• Trouble relating to situations and people.

• Changes to sex drive.

• Excessive anger or hostility.

• Suicidal thoughts or attempts.

Mental illness can

should call 911 or their local emergency number immediately.

March Happenings

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.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28

7:00PM

REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING

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

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29

7:00PM-8:00PM

VINYL LISTENING CLUB

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

7:00PM-9:00PM

VOGUE IN THE VILLAGE FASHION SHOW

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

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

8:00PM

WEST ISLIP ORCHESTRA CONCERT

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

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

9:00AM-4:00PM

ANTIQUE DECOY & SPORTING COLLECTIBLES SHOW

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

6:00PM CHEF COMPETITION

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6

6:00PM-7:30PM

PARENTING A SECOND TIME AROUND

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

9:00AM-4:00PM

THE NEW SEAFORD GUN SHOW

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

4:30PM-7:30PM

ST. PATRICK'S DAY DINNER

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

11:30AM-1:00PM

BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY

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

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

2:00PM

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

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WELLNESS

How To Protect Long-Term Cognitive Health

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

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

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

and remember

· motor function, or how you make and control movements

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

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

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

Be more health-conscious

Working with doctors, individuals can put their

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

Manage high blood pressure

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

impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

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

Manage stress

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

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

Get enough vitamin D

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

Pay attention to hearing loss

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

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GRAPHIC

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PROOFREADING

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SCAN HERE FOR

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Innovation Meets Young Adults Across Long Island To Prevent Substance Abuse

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

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

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

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

Tonianne Ach, MSW, BRIDGES Young Adult Support Coodinator

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

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

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

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

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

Seaford Harbor Authors Go Digital

As Seaford Harbor Elementary School second graders began work on their nonfiction books, they had no idea how fun the project would become. Students in Krista Clark’s class not only became better writers, they also emerged more

technologically savvy by using Book Creator for their final products.

Ms. Clark explained that creating a nonfiction “All About” book is an annual project for students through writer’s workshop, but the digital component was

a new twist. Any project involving technology is appealing to her students, she added.

Each young author selected a topic of personal interest and did research to become on an expert on it. Popular subjects included animals,

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

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

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

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

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

food, hobbies, holidays and sports. Every book had to be four chapters, meaning students had to find four unique areas of their topics to write about. The books also had to include different text features such as photos with captions, diagrams with labels, headings and a fun facts page.

Following their hard work researching, writing, editing and revising, students went to work in Book Creator. Their finished books were then compiled in a digital class library, and Ms. Clark also put QR codes in the hallway so anyone passing by could read the books on their devices.

“It was a great way to showcase their hard work and the skills they learned from writing nonfiction,” Ms. Clark said. “It was also a fun way for them to learn about different subjects from their classmates.”

SEAFORD HARBOR AUTHORS GO DIGITAL - Seaford Harbor Elementary School second graders published their nonfiction “All About” books digitally this year by using Book Creator. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District

Put On Your Skates And Head To Seaford For A Show

It’s not a traditional musical for a Long Island high school, but the Seaford Drama Club is ready to give the audience an uncommon experience with the upcoming production of “Xanadu.”

The show is based on the 1980 movie of the same name and features chaos, a love story, roller skating and laughs for all ages.

The musical comedy debuted on Broadway in 2007, and 17 years later it

is coming to the Seaford High School stage. A cast of 39 students will perform three shows, plus an open dress rehearsal for local senior citizens.

“It’s nice to bring something new and

unfamiliar to our students here, all well as our audience,” director and choreographer Samantha Gates-Weber said. “Seaford’s drama students are very funny and this shows off the talent that

they have.”

Lead cast members include Kieran Calderaro as Sonny, Cassandra Kelly as Kira and Clio, and Dylan Quinn as Danny. Playing the muses are Erin Oritz, Hailey Falta, Troy Tyznar, Emma Baldwin, Emily Salcé and Dylan Wong.

“I really like the music and I’m enjoying making meaningful memories in my last show at Seaford High School,” said Kieran, a senior, appearing his fifth production.

Cassandra, in her fourth high school show, think that this is the first time there will be singing and roller skating together on the Seaford High School stage.

“It’s very magical,” she said. “There’s a lot happening. The audience will like the silliness of it and the jokes.”

Erin said most of the cast had never heard of Xanadu before the show was announced, but they

like the uniqueness of it. Dylan added that the singing, dancing and acting abilities of the cast will make it a great show.

In addition to Ms. Gates-Weber, the show is supported by musical director Gina Salvia, producer Shari Raduazzo, set designer Grant Weber and costumer designer Suzanne Gates, as well as a stage crew of 25 students and a lighting crew of eight.

Local senior citizens are invited to a free open dress rehearsal on Thursday, March 7 at 4 p.m. Show times for all audiences are Friday, March 8 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 9 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in high school auditorium. Advance tickets are $10 for students and $12 for adults, and can be reserved by emailing Ms. Raduazzo at sraduazzo@seaford.k12. ny.us. Tickets at the door will be $12 for students and $15 for adults.

PUT ON YOUR SKATES AND HEAD TO SEAFORD FOR A SHOW - The Seaford High School Drama Club will perform “Xanadu” based on a 1980 movie of the same name from March 7-9. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District

REHEARSING A SCENE FROM THE SHOW - Hailey Falta, left, Cassandra Kelly, center, and Erin Ortiz rehearse a scene from the show. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District

LEAD ACTORS FOR “XANADU” - Lead actors for “Xanadu” are, from left, Dylan Quinn, Kieran Calderaro and Cassandra Kelly. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District

WELLNESS HEALTH&

Activities To Strengthen The Heart

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay Healthy While Pregnant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

doctor to find out which medications should be avoided.

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

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

Pal-O-Mine

organization providing a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing for children and adults with disabilities, has announced its 4th Annual Hay Drive. It is hoping that animal loving Long Islanders will once again help raise funds to feed the organization’s herd during the challenging winter months.

Feeding a large herd is costly and hay costs continue to increase due to weather and supply and demand challenges. Depending on the type of hay, each bale of hay weighing approximately 50-80 lbs. can cost from $13.00 to over $20.00.

Pal-O-Mine’s 6-week bill averages over $9,000 based on its herd eating 18 bales of hay (1,000 lbs.) every day. This year, due to its increasing operational costs as well as the increased cost of hay, the organization is hoping to raise $20,000 to cover its hay costs for the period from through April 15th.

Continued On 17

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WELLNESS

Moderate-Intensity Activities That Can Improve Overall Health

Exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle.

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

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

Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand announced that the Distinguished Artists Concert Series will continue through May 2024 with free performances at local libraries throughout the Town.

“The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Councilman Hand. “I encourage residents to take advantage of these wonderful performances offered by the Town for free at local libraries.”

Scheduled performances for February and March include:

• Gathering Time on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Jericho Public Library – Performing music for all ages from traditional folk to classic rock. All welcome/free tickets required, tickets available at library. For more

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

· Walking very briskly (roughly four miles per hour)

· Heavy cleaning, like washing windows, vacuuming and mopping

· Mowing the lawn with a power mower

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

· Playing recreational badminton

· Playing doubles tennis

· Shooting a basketball

· Water aerobics

· Playing volleyball

· Heavy gardening

· Painting and decorating

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

Free Musical Performances At Local Libraries

information call Jericho Public Library (516) 9356790.

•Carlson & Grant on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Syosset Public Library – Performing solos and duets from the nostalgic past. Registration is

free and required. Visit: https://syosset. librarycalendar.com/ events/month and select the date of the concert and register. Registration starts February 9th.

• Mambo Loco on Sunday, March 10, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Jericho Public

Library – Performing the best of Old-school Latin and Latin jazz. All welcome/free tickets required, tickets available at library on February 22nd. For more information call Jericho Public Library (516) 9356790.

• One More Once Jazz Ensemble on Sunday, March 17, 2024 at 2:30 pm at the Farmingdale Public Library –Performing all genres of big band music.

• Danny Kean & Friends on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 7:00 pm

at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library

– Performing blues, jazz, R&B rock & everything in between. All welcome/ free tickets required, tickets available at library on March 11th. For more information call Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library (516) 9380077.

• The Brooklyn Bards on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Bethpage Public Library – Experience the deep lyrics and rich melodies of traditional Irish music. The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For the full concert schedule and further information, please call (516) 797-7900 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ CAPA.

Liberty New York Water Partners With NAWC To Support Local Students High School Seniors Invited To Apply For $3,000 Scholarships

Liberty, in cooperation with the New York Chapter of the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC), is offering eight $3,000 scholarships to graduating high school

seniors who will be pursuing a degree related to the water utility field. The deadline to apply is April 15, 2024. The scholarships reflect Liberty’s commitment to the community and helping

young people achieve their goals of becoming future leaders in the water industry.

“Supporting our local communities is a priority for us,” said Deborah Franco,

President of Liberty New York Water. “We take pride in sponsoring scholarships for those whose careers will aid in ensuring that safe, reliable water continues to be available for all.”

All high school seniors living within Liberty New York Water’s service areas who meet the following criteria are eligible to apply for the scholarship:

• Lives within the Liberty

Town Announces Environmental Poster Contest For 4th Grade Students

To raise awareness on the impact of trees in our communities, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Michele Johnson announced the return of the Town’s Environmental Poster Contest, open to all 4th grade students in the Town of Oyster Bay. This year’s poster contest, Our Town Our Environment, invites youngsters to create a poster showcasing the importance of trees in preserving our environment, with a theme of ‘Trees for Tomorrow.’

“This poster contest presents a great opportunity to

bring environmental awareness to our young people, making them more knowledgeable on the importance of protecting Mother Nature and safeguarding our natural resources,” said Supervisor Saladino. Students should submit a poster to communicate awareness of the essential role of trees in our lives and may consider these key facts in their design:

• Oxygen Production: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, ensuring clean air. Did you know? 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.

• Air and Water Purification: Trees cleanse the air and water, promoting a healthier environment.

• Shade and Cooling: Trees provide shade, cooling our neighborhoods naturally.

• Wildlife Habitat: Trees offer food and homes for various wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.

• Health Benefits: Trees encourage outdoor activities, promoting physical well-being. Submissions should be made on poster paper (no larger than 12”x18”). No edible items should be used on the poster. The top

three winning posters to be displayed at a Town facility and showcased in a future Town of Oyster Bay Environmental Newsletter.

“This contest is being co-sponsored by Friends of the Bay and The Waterfront Center, two organizations we proudly partner with throughout the year to help our efforts in protecting and preserving the environment,” said Councilwoman Johnson.

“I hope all fourth-grade students join us in this year’s program and take advantage of the great opportunity to become more knowledgeable on the importance of protecting our

water service area in New York

• High school senior pursuing a degree at a college, university or trade school as an undergraduate student

• Maintains at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 GPA grading scale

• Enrolling in a curriculum related to the water utility industry or related fields such as natural resource management, environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, engineering, computer science, environmental law, etc.

Qualified students interested in applying for this scholarship can visit www. libertyenergyandwater. com for the application and more details. For more information, contact Pamela Bellings at 516.214.7849 or Pamela. Bellings@libertyutilities. com.

environment.”

Prizes will be awarded for the top three submissions, with 1st Place receiving a private tour of Oyster Bay Harbor aboard a Friends of the Bay vessel, a $200 gift certificate for the Waterfront Center in Oyster Bay, a tree planted at the winning student’s school for Arbor Day, a nautical trivia game and Friends of the Bay apparel.

Second and third place winners will also receive a gift certificate to The Waterfront Center and have a tree planted in their school district. Submission deadline for the contest is Friday, March 29th,

with winners to be announced on Earth Day, April 22nd.

Along with their poster submission, students must include an entry form, which is available at www.oysterbaytown. com/postercontest. Mail or email posters to the Town’s Department of Environmental Resources, Attn: Poster Contest, 29 Spring Street, Oyster Bay NY, 11771. Entries can also be emailed to environmental@ oysterbay-ny.gov with the subject line ‘2024 Poster Contest.’ Visit www.oysterbaytown. com/postercontest for more details.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS INVITED TO APPLY FOR $3,000 SCHOLARSHIPS - Scholarship recipients are honored at a reception at the Thayer Hotel at West Point. Pictured are the NAWC 2023 Scholarship recipients.

NYS Breast Cancer Survivors

Sought For Hotline

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program is seeking breast cancer survivors, both women and men, throughout New York State to train as volunteers for the hotline. The ZOOM training, each session from 10 am to 1 pm, is being held on four consecutive Mondays beginning March 11 (then March 18, March 25 and April 1). Volunteers are asked to commit to all four sessions.

The hotline was established in 1980 by women who had been in a support group and wanted to help others. Today it is the oldest breast cancer hotline in the country.

Says Lori F, a hotline volunteer since 2022, “It is an indescribable feeling to give hope to someone who feels hopeless.”

Volunteer will receive on-line training in the following areas: community outreach,

educational presentations, hotline, speaking engagements, publicity, and fundraising.

For more information and to set up an initial interview, contact social worker Nina Foley at 516-877-4315 or email at nfoley@adelphi.edu.

Information about the hotline and support program can be found on-line at breastcanceradelphi.edu.

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, Inc. Announces 4th Annual Hay Drive

Continued From 14

To show your support, please send a check in any amount made payable to:

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, 829 Old Nichol Road, Islandia, NY 11749 or visit the organization’s website and make a secure donation at: https://pal-omine.org/donate/

About Pal-O-Mine

Founded in 1995 by Lisa Gatti, Pal-O-Mine is a private, not for profit organization providing a comprehensive

therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing for children and adults with disabilities, as well as those who have been abused or neglected, veterans and the economically compromised.  PalO-Mine offers a broad range of programs, many of which involve the organization’s herd of therapy horses and livestock. Pal-O-Mine relies on grants and contributions from private

Registration Opening For Spring Town Youth Ice Hockey Program

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that registration for the Town’s Spring Youth Ice Hockey Program will begin soon for boys and girls ages 8U- 16U. This program includes full House League games, practice schedule and playoffs. Clinics spanning 10 weeks in duration will also be available for registration including all girls clinics, 6U clinics, adult learn to play clinics and advanced skill clinics. Programs will begin on April 3, 2024.

“This recreational and

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

Registration will open online for Town of Oyster Bay residents on March 4th and March 5th at www. oysterbaytown.com/portal beginning at 9:00 am;

online registration will available to non-residents on March 6th at 9:00 am. All registrants must provide a copy of their birth certificate, proof of residency, and payment for registration. A parent of legal guardian must be present for registration.

All participants must provide their own equipment, and should have some skating ability. For more information, call the rink at (516) 433-7465, x 8234 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ hockey.

citizens, foundations and businesses to help raise funds. For more information on Pal-OMine, visit:www.pal-omine.org or call: 631348-1389.

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