February 15, 2023 - February 28, 2023 Suffolk Zone 5

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

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.

Newfield High School Varsity Basketball Student Reaches 1,000 Point Milestone

On Friday, January 27th, Newfield High School student Raiyah Reid became only the third female in Newfield High School Varsity Girls Basketball history to reach the 1,000-point milestone. Raiyah is currently a junior at Newfield High School and has been a part of the Newfield High School Varsity Girls’ Basketball

program since the eighth grade.

“To score 1,000 points in your varsity basketball career is truly unique. You simply don’t see many players–female or male–achieving this laudatory milestone on varsity public school basketball teams,” said Joseph Mercado, Director of Physical Education,

Middle Country Central School

District Honors The Late

Health, and Athletics.

“We are incredibly proud of Raiyah. The fact that she is the third female to achieve this momentous accomplishment speaks volumes about the Newfield High School basketball program and our coaches. Congratulations to Raiyah Reid!”

Dr. Karen J. Lessler

Middle Country Central School District students, family, board members, administrators, faculty, staff, and community members recently gathered at the Dr. Karen J. Lessler District Conference Center located in Centereach High School to honor the late Dr. Karen J. Lessler during a solemn and heartfelt dedication ceremony.

“We are grateful to be able to dedicate the District’s conference center in honor of Dr. Lessler,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Middle Country Central School District. “Her passion for her community, students, education, and family was limitless. It’s reassuring to know that visitors who pass by or visit this conference center will have a moment to remember Dr. Lessler and reflect on her legacy as a great educator, mother, wife, and friend. I especially want the members of the Lessler family who are with

RAIYAH REID REACHES 1,000 POINT MILESTONE - On Friday, January 27th, Newfield High School student Raiyah Reid became only the third female in Newfield High School Varsity Girls Basketball history to reach the 1,000-point milestone. Pictured: Newfield High School student, Raiyah Reid with her Girls’ Varsity Basketball team. Photo courtesy of the Middle Country Central School District

2023 Food Truck Permit Opportunity For Belmont Lake, Brentwood, And Heckscher State Parks

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Long Island Region, is accepting applications for food truck opportunities at Belmont Lake, Brentwood, and Heckscher, Stream State Parks for April 1st through November 30, 2023.

The fee is $500 per park. A separate fee should be paid for each

park. Proof of insurance and health permits are required.

For more information, including an application, please contact the Long Island Region at (631) 321-3541. Applications, payment, and all required documentation in response to this request must be postmarked no later than February 20, 2023.

The New York State Office of Parks,

Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which are visited by 78 million people annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.parks.ny.gov, connect with us on Facebook, or follow on Instagram and Twitter.

us this evening to know that Karen’s impact on this district and community will be felt for generations to come.”

Dr. Lessler served on the Middle Country Central School District Board of Education for over twenty years. She held the position of president of the Board for eighteen years. During her tenure on the Board, Dr. Lessler received numerous awards and recognition, including the Person of the Year Award in 2006, Volunteer of the Year in 2008, Teacher of the Year by the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2006 and 2015, the Education Award at the 28th Annual Women’s Recognition, the Town of Brookhaven and the Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association Distinguished Service Award in 2015. Dr. Lessler was also invited to interview and nominated by the Senate and Assembly Education Committee

for an at-large Board of Regent position in 2015 and served as the Long Island spokesperson for St. Jude’s Children’s Research hospital for 10 years. The Middle Country Central School District dedicated the District Conference Center to Dr. Lessler in recognition of her over twenty years of devotion and service to the district.

“It was heartwarming to see everyone who gathered to honor Dr. Lessler. She was a leader and a friend who served our students and community for over 20 years with compassion, intelligence, vision, and heart,” said Board President Dawn Sharrock. “Thank you to Legislator Nick Caracappa, Ron Edelson of ZE Creative Communications, and Danny Haffel of Johnson Controls Inc. for their generous donations that allowed the memorial plaque in Dr. Lessler’s honor to be created.”

THE LATE DR. KAREN J. LESSLER HONORED - Middle Country Central School District students, family, board members, administrators, faculty, staff, and community members recently gathered at the Dr. Karen J. Lessler District Conference Center located in Centereach High School to honor the late Dr. Karen J. Lessler during a solemn and heartfelt dedication ceremony. Left to right, Dr. Lessler’s family: John Lessler, stepson, Michele Gerardi, Dr. Lessler’s sister, Marlene and Arthur Lopizzo, Dr. Lessler’s sister in law and Karen’s brother, George Lessler, Dr. Lessler’s husband, Kelly Lessler, daughter in law, Matthew Lessler, son, Michael Lopizzo (kneeling), nephew, Madeline Lessler, granddaughter, Ellie Lessler, granddaughter. Photo courtesy of the Middle Country Central School District

The Girl Scouts Of Suffolk County Kick-Off Cookie Season

GIRL SCOUTS OF SUFFOLK COUNTY KICK-OFF COOKIE SEASON -

Girl Scouts of Suffolk County (GSSC) is excited to announce that the Girl Scout Cookie Program is running now through April 17, 2023. To learn more about the Girl Scout Cookie Program and how to support local Girl Scouts, visit: https://www.gssc.us/en/cookies/ about-girl-scout-cookies.html.

Girl Scouts of Suffolk County (GSSC) is excited to announce that the Girl Scout Cookie Program is running now through April 17, 2023. For more than 100 years, the Girl Scout Cookie Program has allowed girls to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills. All proceeds from the Girl Scout Cookie Season support local Girl Scouts by expanding their opportunities for new experiences and activities.

“Every Girl Scout that participates in our Girl Scout Cookie Program develops invaluable entrepreneurial experience while increasing their confidence from an early age,” said Tammy Severino, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County President and CEO. “This program allows girls to learn professional and financial literacy skills while earning funds that will go directly to their troops and community to grant new

opportunities.”

The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the largest girlled entrepreneurial program in the world and helps Girl Scouts reach goals that power endless opportunities and adventures. Within the program, girls can create a personalized page on the Digital Cookie platform— which allows girls to offer an online option to purchase cookies. Throughout the season, local troops and Girl Scouts will also be setting up in-person booth sales held across Suffolk County.

Booth Sales allow Girl Scouts to engage with their community while they gain early business experience and progress in leadership. Each booth is designed and created by the girls in the troop, using their creativity and artistic ability to construct their unique booth. Girls gain experience managing inventory, handling

customer transactions, creating displays, and much more. Booth Sale season starts February 3rd. To find the nearest Booth Sale, visit the Girl Scout Cookie Finder to support your local troop.

To learn more about the Girl Scout Cookie Program and how to support local Girl Scouts, visit: https://www. gssc.us/en/cookies/aboutgirl-scout-cookies.html.

About Girl Scouts of Suffolk County: The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County is one of the largest youthserving agencies on Long Island, serving over 15,000 members dedicated to the mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. For more information about Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, please call (631) 543-6622 or visit www.gssc.us.

Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa Hosts “Making a Main Street”

On Thursday, January 26th Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa along with Legislator Leslie Kennedy, the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning, Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), and the Regional Planning Association (RPA), partnered together for the” Making a Main

Street” event hosted by the Middle Country Public Library in Selden. Every level of government was in attendance and participated. Both Centereach and Selden Civics, along with neighboring civics and chambers, the Suffolk County Police Department, Selden Fire Department, the Middle Country School Board as well as several

local businesses and many residents from our community.

Well over one hundred participants gathered together to share visions of what we as residents of the Selden/Centereach community would like see Middle Country Road become once we begin sewer installations in the coming years. Safer, slower traffic patterns, medians,

beautification, street lighting, restaurants, health care/medical facilities, shared parking lot access, catering hall, remove blithe such as vacant rundown structures and overgrowth, reduce curb cuts, lit crosswalks, live music, walkable Main Street are just some of the visionary projects requested. Proctors were on hand at each table

to take suggestions and answer questions from community members regarding the project which is only in its initial stages.

“I will continue to keep the community informed of project progress and will schedule another meeting to go over design, capacity, and a visionary portrait of what Middle Country Road can become based on the

data collected, together we can do this! Sustainable Downtown, Jobs, Revenue, Economic Development, Environmental Friendly protecting our Water Source and limitless possibilities for our community!” stated Legislator Caracappa. Next up, Farmingville, Holbrook and Ronkonkoma.

“MAKING A MAIN STREET” - (On the Left pictured,) community members from both Centereach and Selden collaborating together their ideas for a “Main Street.” (Center photo, from left to right) Commissioner of Suffolk County planning and Economic Development Sarah Lansdale, Legislator Leslie Kennedy, Comptroller John Kennedy, Legislator Caracappa and Councilman LaValle. (Right photo) one of the five tables with maps of Middle Country Road.

Helping You Help Others

By Noelle Lambert

The Charity of the Month for February is The Corporate Source

www.thecorporatesource.org

Do you know who cleans and maintains many Long Island Courts?

A major vocation for people with disabilities is cleaning, maintenance, janitorial, landscaping and snow removal work. The Corporate Source (TCS) is a Garden City-based non profit organization, which has vendor contract relationships to provide cleaning and maintenance for many of Long Island’s courthouse facilities.

As one example, the Su olk County Court Complex in Central Islip averages visits from more than 1000 people a day, whether it is judges, employees, lawyers, plainti s or defendants. Many of these visitors would not know that this 28 acre campus is cleaned and maintained in large measure by people with disabilities from The Corporate Source. In recognized annual surveys these workers are ranked “well into the ninety percentile”, performing above industry standard.

As a logical progression, in 2000 as construction and development of the D’Amato Federal Court House was completed, the Federal government awarded a janitorial contract to The Corporate Source. By 2003, they were so confident in the work of The Corporate Source that the contract evolved into Total Facilities Management including maintenance, landscaping and snow removal. More than 30 TCS employees work alongside a variety of federal employees, including 16 federal judges. Judges have been so impressed by their work that they held a lunch for these employees to express their appreciation for their commitment and outstanding performance. Michael Kramer, CEO of The Corporate Source, said “Our workers earned credibility for this enlarged opportunity. They proved that they could deliver when given a chance to do a job.”

Mr. Kramer mentioned that often cleaning, maintenance and janitorial tasks are perceived as “jobs of last resort” marked by high turnover and

a casual attitude. In contrast he said, “The workers provided by The Corporate Source are motivated when they are given these jobs. Sometimes this is their first position so they have a desire to prove what they can do. Among the 60+ TCS employees at the court complexes in Su olk, some have been employed since TCS first got the contract more than 20 years ago. The retention rate is well above the industry average and many employees are working there multiple years.”

TCS employees appreciate the stability that comes from work. Matt is a Heavy Equipment Mechanic at the D’Amato Federal Courthouse and over the past 23 years has worked his way up through the ranks of Janitor, to Project Worker and after taking additional training at BOCES, moved into his current role as a Mechanic. Matt is thankful for the support of his managers and supervisors who motivated and encouraged him to learn new skills and expand his role. He is grateful that work has given him the ability to provide for his wife and young children.

Richard, a TCS employee since 2017, reentered the workforce as a Janitor in the Su olk County Courthouse. Work not only helps him pay his bills and save for a new car, but also gives him a sense of pride and community. Richard is glad to complete his routine tasks and jump in when additional help is needed. “The people here are the best part of my job” said Richard. “Everyone is nice and I was really glad I got this opportunity to work for TCS.” His manager regularly hears compliments about his work and positive attitude.

TCS is hiring for multiple full and part time positions in the Su olk County area. They are looking for Janitors, Groundskeepers, Landscapers and Foreman. See their website, www. thecorporatesource.org, for career opportunities or call 561-419-5613 for more information.

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

The Public Libraries Of Suffolk

County Reaches Record-Breaking Three Million Digital Book Checkouts In 2022

Top 15 Public Library System Worldwide In Total Digital Circulation

The Public Libraries of Suffolk County announced today that it reached a record-breaking three million digital book checkouts on Livebrary. com in 2022. This milestone illustrates the continued growth and importance of library lending of e-books, audiobooks and other digital media as well as the library’s success in serving all members of the community. Livebrary, consisting of 56 libraries in Suffolk County, is #13 of all public library consortia, one of 129 public library systems worldwide and third in New York that surpassed one million checkouts last calendar year (complete list here).

The Public Libraries of Suffolk County have been providing readers 24/7 access to e-books and audiobooks for several years through the awardwinning Libby app, the library reading app created by OverDrive. The large collection serves readers of all ages and interests, and

usage has grown every year.

“The Public Libraries of Suffolk County continue to provide access to a diverse collection of e-books and audiobooks giving readers the opportunity to connect with a wealth of information and entertainment from wherever they may be,” said Kevin Verbesey, Director of the Suffolk Cooperative Library System.

The highest-circulating title Livebrary readers borrowed in 2022 was The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave. The top-circulating genre, romance, represents the most popular in a vast catalog that also includes mystery, fantasy, children/ young adult and more.

The top 5 e-book titles borrowed through Livebrary’s digital collection in 2022:

1. Verity by Colleen Hoover

2. The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

3. Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult

4. The Seven Husbands

5. The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

The top 5 audiobook titles borrowed through Livebrary’s digital collection in 2022:

1. The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

2. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

3. The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

4. The Maid by Nita Prose

5. Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty

Readers in Suffolk County just need a valid library card from a member library to access digital books from Livebrary’s OverDrive-powered digital collection. Readers can use any major device, including Apple(R), Android™, Chromebook™ and Kindle(R) (U.S. only). Download the Libby app or visit Livebrary.com to get started borrowing e-books, audiobooks and more anytime, anywhere.

of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

As you grow older, you don’t want to worry about how your family will manage your end-of-life plans.

Taking control now takes the pressure off them later – and you can rest assured your preferences will be honored. Our planning tool kit is exactly what you need to get started. Start today. Peace of mind tomorrow.

February Happenings

James McPeak Reminds Everyone To Thank All Those Who Care For Our Loved Ones On February 17

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

Wednesday, Februrary 15

7:00PM-9:00PM

Night Of Bingo

Del Fuego in East Northport will be hosting Bingo. The rst game starts at 7pm and it is free to play. There will be prizes given out each round. Visit their instagram, delfuegotexmex, for more information.

Wednesday, Februrary 15

7:00PM-10:00PM

Hard Luck Café Concert

Tracy Walton and Sierra West, singersongwriters 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-8:00PM

Vinyl Listening Club

Visit the Connetquot Public Library

to hear a mix of records ranging from jazz, blues, country, classical, 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. All ages are welcome. No registration required. Call 631-567-5079 for more information.

Thursday, Februrary 16

7:00PM

Keep Islip Clean 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 631-2352059 or sailingsals60@gmail.com.

Friday, Februrary 17

2:30PM-3:30PM

Adult Coloring

Presented by Chris Bisonette and will be held at the Freeport Memorial Library. This is a free event which will also provide the coloring pages and pencils. Register online at www. freeportlibrary.info, by phone at 516379-3274, or in person at the ASK Desk.

Saturday, Februrary 18

10:00AM-4:00PM

Southold WinterFest

This event is free to all residents and visitors. It includes exhibits, displays of local business/organizations, entertainment, free food/beverages and activities for adults and children. Rain date is Sunday, February 19. Visit their Facebook at @Southold WinterFest for updates and more information.

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. Call 631-226-8690 for more information.

Sunday, Februrary 19

9:00AM

Jones Beach Bird Walk

Join the South Shore Audubon Society on a bird walk. The group will meet in the Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area. Rain or snow will cancel the bird walk. To register, text your name and contact information to Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498.

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

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.

Friday, Februrary 24 3:30PM-5:30PM

Teen Bake Off:

Chocolate Overload

Make desserts from scratch (no mixes) and bring it in starting at 3:30pm. Judging will begin promptly at 4pm. Afterwards, enjoy the treats everyone made! This event will be held in the Main Building at the PatchogueMedford Library. Call 631-654-4700 to register.

Saturday, Februrary 25

8:00PM-9:30PM

Long Island Comedy Festival

Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for a night of comedy. Featuring: Paul Anthony, Maria Walsh and Rob Falcone. Tickets are $35. Visit www.limehof.org for tickets and more information.

Saturday, Februrary 25

12:00PM-3:00PM

Community Spaghetti Dinner Ebenezer Baptist Church in Babylon will be hosting a dinner for the community. This is a free event. Food and drinks will be provided. Contact Georgia at 631782-0893 or McCullan at 631-643-3045

James McPeak, Owner, McPeak’s Assisted Living, is reminding everyone that February 17 is National Caregivers Day and is urging everyone to thank those who take care of our elderly and infirm family members every day and recognize them for the hard work they do. National Caregivers Day, which is held on the third Friday in February every year, honors these healthcare professionals who give their time and energy providing care to those who may require long-term care. Expert caregivers are trained to provide services around the clock in safe environments; this allows the family members to focus on the loved one’s

LEGALS

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT FOR THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

Blue Castle (Cayman) Ltd. v. Stacy Lavender; et al., Attorney for Plaintiff: Hasbani & Light, P.C., 450 7th Ave, Suite 1408, NY, NY 10123; (212) 643-6677. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale granted herein on 10/24/2022, I will sell at Public Auction to the highest bidder on the steps of Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on 3/16/2023 at 10:00 am a premises known as 221 N. Country Road, Miller Place, NY 11764, District: 0200 Section: 049.00 Block: 04.00 Lot: 023.000.

All that certain plot, piece, or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York. As more particularly described in the judgment of foreclosure and sale.

Sold subject to all of the terms and conditions contained in said judgment and terms of sale.

Approximate amount of judgment: $250,430.67 plus interest and costs.

Index No.: 604622/2016

Frank Maffei, Esq., Referee

SUF 5 & 6 - 1893 - 2/15, 2/22, 3/1 & 3/8/23

healing process.

According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and the American Association for Retired Persons (AARP), there are 53 million caregivers nationwide. Of that number, 19% are unpaid. However, many of the paid caregivers wind up leaving their jobs.

The National Alliance for Caregiving/AARP poll found that 23% of the healthcare professionals experienced a decline in their health. Other reasons why they quit, according to Sandata, include poor communication, long hours, lack of recognition, long commutes, poor training and low pay.

“On this day, we should take time out and recognize those who take care of our loved ones when we aren’t able to,” Mr. McPeak says. “Their job is a demanding job and many of them work through the day without receiving even as much as a ‘thank you.’ On February 17, let’s take some time to show our heartfelt gratitude for them and the work they do.”

Social Security’s Ticket To Work Program

(NAPSI)—Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program helps Social Security disability beneficiaries achieve financial independence. The program connects you with free, individualized employment services to prepare for the workforce, search for a job and stay employed. Learn more at 1-866-968-7842 and choosework.ssa.gov.

Students Support Meals On Wheels

Students in Patricia Puls’ art classes at Hiawatha Elementary School in the Sachem Central School District made meals a little brighter for some New York City residents. Students used class time to create cards to accompany

the meal trays delivered to homebound residents as part of the Meals on Wheels program. Meals on Wheels delivers meals to seniors’ homes to support independence, while fighting hunger and isolation.

Students created “Thinking of You,” “Get Well Soon,” birthday and holiday cards to be delivered. They were enthusiastic about participating and were happy to send joyful messages to others.

STUDENTS SUPPORT MEALS ON WHEELS - Hiawatha Elementary School students created cards during art class to be delivered to seniors as part of the Meals on Wheels program. Photo courtesy of the Sachem Central School District

She is a hero.” Photo courtesy of the Connetquot Central School District

Help Wanted Help Wanted

Needed: full time handyman/remodeler, experienced in all phases of home repair and maintenance for local established residential property management company. Skills needed: painting, spackling, carpentry, light plumbing, light electrical, general house maintenance-interior and exterior. Responsibilities include preparing vacant rentals; maintenance, and repair of occupied rentals. Must have experience, be reliable, and be willing to communicate with tenants. Company provided vehicle, tools and materials.

Consistent work - no layoffs. Paid vacation and holidays.

Local Babylon area. Monday - Friday 8:30a-4:30p.

To Apply: Call: 631-225-1120 ext 218

Text: 631-503-1750 Email: Landlord@vifran.net

DO

Help Wanted

POOL

Needed

THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2”

A sales representative will be happy to assist you

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2”

A sales representative will be happy to assist you

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2”

A sales representative will be happy to assist you

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2”

A sales representative will be happy to assist you

Call today! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646

HAVE

Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276

Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276

LOOKING

THINKING

Reading Buddy Pet Adoption Encourages Reading

Kindergarten classes at Edith Slocum Elementary School in the Connetquot Central School District hosted a Reading Buddy Pet Adoption. The students first chose

(adopted) their reading buddy from several pets (stuffed animals) such as a dog, cat, fish, dinosaur, hedgehog, etc. After naming their pet, the students signed a

certificate that they will read to their buddy each day. Additionally, the pet reading buddies will remain in school to buddyread during the students’ reading workshop.

READING BUDDY PET ADOPTION - Edith Slocum Elementary School kindergarten students chose stuffed animals for reading buddies during the Reading Buddy Pet Adoption event. Photo courtesy of the Connetquot Central School District

760 Ocean Avenue Bohemia, NY 11716, 631-567-5079

www.connetquotlibrary.org

***

VIRTUAL: Local Eats: Beets, Thursday, February 16, 3:30 - 4:30 pm

Originally from the Middle East, beets come in many different colors and flavors. Learn how to grow, purchase, and cook beets to add more nutrients to your daily meals. Library members may register by visiting our website at www. connetquotlibrary.org.

Vinyl Listening Club, Thursday, February 16,

BOB

In Bathrooms, Kitchens, Fini shed Ba sement s, Extensions , Windo ws, Doors, Si ding, Decks, Power Washing Sheetrock, Spackle and Painting Family Owned & Operated. We Care.

Lic#4168 5 Ins. 631-838-1223

BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?

Place your ad in the Classifieds 631-226-2636

Ext. 276

Painting Paperhanging

2023 Ice Cream Truck Permit

Opportunity For Belmont Lake, Heckscher, Hempstead Lake & Valley Stream State Parks

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Long Island Region, is accepting applications for ice cream truck opportunities at Belmont Lake, Heckscher, Hempstead Lake and Valley Stream State Parks for April 1st through November 30, 2023.

The fee is $750 per park. A separate fee should be paid for each park. Proof of

Connetquot Public Library

7:00 - 8:00 pm

Drop in to hear an eclectic mix of records ranging from jazz, blues, country, classical, 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. All ages are welcome. No registration required.

Hiking Long Island, Thursday, February 16, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Naturalist, photographer, and author of Hiking the Catskills and Hiking Long Island (out in its fourth edition), Lee McAllister will

present the many hiking opportunities available here. He’ll include the geology, history (natural and human), flora, fauna, and topographical features that make Long Island such an interesting place to hike in any season. Lee was active in scouting, blazing, and maintaining the 115-mile-long Paumanok Point that runs from Rocky Point to Montauk. No registration required.

The Pain of Risk vs. the Pain of Regret, Wednesday, February 22, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm To risk or to regret? It’s

not easy to decide. There are times when it’s better to think before you take a leap of faith to engage in a little risk-taking. However, there are times when taking healthy risks can benefit you. This lecture will discuss why healthy risk-taking can benefit you and how to make a rational decision to act or not. Jim Cummings is the speaker.

VIRTUAL/IN-PERSON:

Gene Kelly: Singing and Dancing in the Rain, Thursday, February 23, 3:00 - 4:00 pm

Gene Kelly was one of the most engaging and influential dancers to ever set foot in Hollywood, transforming male movement and film directing to help make dance come alive on the big screen. Fordham University professor emeritus Brian Rose leads us through this survey of Kelly’s extraordinary career. This is a Zoom presentation that will be shown in the library or can be viewed from home. Library members may register by visiting our website at www. connetquotlibrary.org.

insurance and health permits are required.

For more information, including an application, please contact the Long Island Region at (631) 321-3541.

Applications, payment, and all required documentation in response to this request must be postmarked no later than February 20, 2023.

The New York State Office of Parks,

VIRTUAL/IN-PERSON:

Robert Moses: New York’s Hero or Villain? Monday, February 27, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Robert Moses was once a very powerful man in New York State second only to the Governor himself. He was the man responsible for building New York’s tunnels, bridges, parks, parkways and even World’s Fairs. Some people called him a genius and others called him a tyrant. Which one was he? This lecture might help you decide.

St. John’s University professors Howard Ehrlich and Harvey Sackowitz are the presenters. This is a Zoom presentation that will be shown in the library or can be viewed from home. Library members may register by visiting our website at www. connetquotlibrary.org.

Ancient Wisdom, Tuesday, February 28, 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Lelonni Campbell draws on ancient philosophies and interprets them for our modern world. Learn how you can use them to deepen insights into how universal

Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which are visited by 78 million people annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.parks.ny.gov, connect with us on Facebook, or follow on Instagram and Twitter.

principles affect everyday life. No registration required.

Planning For Retirement

(NAPSI)—It’s never too early—or late—to start planning for retirement. Including life insurance to supplement your savings can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Learn more from the experts at Bankers Life Insurance at www. bankerslife.com.

Treehouse For Kids

(NAPSI)—Treehouse is a nonprofit committed to youth in foster care achieving a degree or other career credential, living-wage job and stable housing. The organization partners with thousands of youth to provide access to childhood experiences and critical resources as they plan for the future. Learn how you can get involved at www.treehouseforkids.org.

Guest Speaker Is A Catch With Hiawatha Fifth Graders

New York Jets offensive lineman Greg Senat stepped off the field to visit the fifth grade at Hiawatha Elementary School in Sachem. Senat, a graduate of Elmont High School and former student of Hiawatha Principal Joseph Watson, spoke with students about making healthy choices and a day in the life of an NFL player.

Senat stressed the

importance of taking school seriously, keeping positive people around you and persevering through tough times. He told students stories of his NFL draft experience and playing with the Kansas City Chiefs during their Super Bowl win in 2019. He went through his game-day routine and encouraged students to find routines in their everyday lives that

102 Pounds Of Food Donated

By

FITTEAM-LA

‘s Dream Team

work best for them.

Throughout the visit, students were eager to ask questions and get a glimpse into an NFL player’s life. Senat was happy to take photos with students and sign autographs. The interactive visit inspired students to be the best versions of themselves and follow their dreams.

Long Island Cares, Inc., The Harry Chapin Food Bank gratefully acknowledge receipt of a total of 102 pounds of food donated by Fitteam-LA’s Dream Team.

Thank you for joining them in their mission to ensure that more Long Island children, families, and pets do not go hungry through our COVID-19 relief efforts. In addition to distributing more than 17 million pounds of food

to nearly 600 member agencies in the first 10 months of the pandemic, Long Island Cares seeks to heighten public awareness about hunger and provides skills training to foster self-sufficiency among the population that benefits from their services.

Many times hunger and poverty are hard to see. By outward appearances, we may not know a family is struggling or that a school age child does not

have enough food at home. People needing help are often filled with shame when they seek assistance and no matter how kind the food pantry worker may be, the worried parent keeps thinking, “I can’t feed my kids.”

On behalf of all of the children and families served by Long Island Cares, they are truly grateful for your support.

Connetquot Varsity Cheer Places

First At UCA Garden State Challenge

The Connetquot Central School District is proud to announce that the varsity cheerleading team placed first at the Universal Cheerleading Association Garden State Challenge, held in New Jersey this month. The cheer team is now preparing to compete at the UCA National High

School Cheerleading Championships, to be held in Orlando, Florida in March.

In addition to their competition win, coach Kelly Unterweiser reported that the team also received an honorable mention from Newsday as one of Long Island’s top 15

cheerleading teams on Long Island.

The district congratulates the team on this outstanding accomplishment and extends best wishes for success at the national competition.

GREG SENAT VISITS - New York Jets player Greg Senat visited the fifth grade at Hiawatha Elementary School. Photo courtesy of the Sachem Central School District

SENAT SIGNED AUTOGRAPHS - New York Jets player Greg Senat signed autographs for the fifth graders. Photo courtesy of the Sachem Central School District

GUEST SPEAKER IS A CATCH - Fifth graders asked Senat questions about how he got to play football professionally. Photo courtesy of the Sachem Central School District