August 30, 2023 - September 12, 2023 Suffolk Zone 6

Success For Port Jefferson School District Athletic Camps

The Port Jefferson School District athletic department recently concluded its summer athletic camps. The camp

program doubled from 11 camps in its first year of implementation last summer to 22 camps this year, offered from May

through August, with 454 enrollments.

The camps were run by varsity coaches and assisted by the varsity

student-athletes. The camps allow students to be active, develop their love of athletics and athletic ability while

making connections with high school athletes. The athletic department looks forward to creating more opportunities for students

to engage in healthy activities in the future.

Photo courtesy of the Port Jefferson School District

Local Teens Earn Prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award

The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County recently celebrated local Girl Scouts who earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award, including 7 members of Sachem North Service Unit 603, Sachem East Service Unit 618, Stony Brook Service Unit 652 and Setauket Service Unit 656. The awards were presented during the 2023 Gold Award Dinner, which was held at The Inn & Spa at East Wind and featured a keynote address by Rebecca Sanin, President and CEO of the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island. The Gold Award program recognizes the power and dedication shared by an elite group of young women who earn the highest honor a Girl Scout can achieve. The members of the Sachem North Service Unit 603, Sachem East Service Unit 618, Stony Brook Service Unit 652 and Setauket Service Unit 656 who achieved Gold Awards this year were Amanda Purga, Hannah Rinaldi, Arianna Schuman, Katherine

Turturro, Caroline Woo, Alexa Calvanese and Anna Munoz.

“The Gold Award is the highest distinction a young woman can earn in Girl Scouting and is earned by less than 6% of Girl Scouts annually,” said Tammy Severino, GSSC’s President & CEO. “Earning this award takes an extreme amount of dedication, hard-work and commitment from each of the girls. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this distinguished class of young women and the great efforts they have made for their communities.”

The Gold Award Girl Scouts each tackled a project that held a deep significance to them. To be eligible for a Gold Award, each recipient must complete two Senior or Ambassador Journeys, or their Girl Scout Silver Award before beginning their Gold Award project. To meet the Girl Scout Gold Award requirements, each candidate must complete at least 80 hours toward their project.

Girls in grades 9-12 begin

LOCAL TEENS

EARN

PRESTIGIOUS GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD

- The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County recently celebrated local Girl Scouts who earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award, including 7 members of Sachem North Service Unit 603, Sachem East Service Unit 618, Stony Brook Service Unit 652 and Setauket Service Unit 656. (L-R) Girl Scouts of Suffolk County’s Gold Award Class of 2023 with Donna Smeland, GSSC Chair of the Board and Tammy Severino, GSSC President & CEO.

their Gold Award journey by identifying a civic or social issue they care about. Next, a Girl Scout builds a team to support her project with the mission to create a positive impact in her community by addressing an issue she feels passionate about. Through the process, Gold Award Girl Scouts build invaluable problemsolving, organizational,

and leadership skills, while educating and inspiring others.

Amanda Purga provided inspirational words for those struggling with the residual mental and emotional stresses linked to the global pandemic at her high school. For her project, Arianna Schuman refurbished two gardens for Angela’s House. Filling the gardens with

plants, trimmed bushes and added a sentimental rock garden with decorations.

Katherine Turturro created picture-based recipes for William Floyd School District’s special education students. She produced and donated 12 cookbooks to the Life Skills class.

Alexa Calvanese created “Don’t Stress, Worry Less” Youth Group room, a space

for neighborhood youth to congregate and improve interpersonal connections and mental health following the pandemic.

For her project, Anna Munoz built a calming garden center and Adirondack chairs for a local prevention center.

Caroline Woo created a more colorful, art filled center for children to be inspired by creativity.

Come Support Neighbors Facing Food Insecurity!

On Friday, Sept. 1, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island summer food collection drive comes to East Northport.

Food collection bins and a drive-through option will be set up at the Stop & Shop supermarket at 3126 Jericho Turnpike, East Northport, where members of the public can donate nonperishable items and household essentials for neighbors facing food insecurity.

With your help and the generous donations of fellow Long Islanders, the initiative aims to collect the equivalent of 50,000

meals during July, August and September. Last year, thanks to your kindness, the equivalent of more than 42,000 meals was collected for the Power to Feed Long Island initiative.

Hundreds of thousands of Long Island families struggle with hunger and food insecurity throughout the year. During the summer months, there is a significant reduction in food donations to local food banks, pantries and programs. Compounding the issue, children are not in school where they can receive free and reduced-

cost breakfast and lunch. In addition, the pandemic and the increased inflation rate have further strained local food pantries and emergency feeding programs served by Island Harvest.

Please consider donating some of the healthy foods you feed your own family, pet food or personal care items, including:

Nonperishable food (no glass jars, please): Healthy varieties of canned foods, such as low-sodium beans, vegetables, soups, pasta sauces and tomato varieties, tuna and chicken, along with rice,

pasta, popcorn kernels, nut butters, olive and canola oil, spices and pet food.

Household essentials: Toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, laundry detergent and dish soap.

Personal care items: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner, feminine care products and shaving products, antibacterial wipes and washcloths.

Baby care items: Diapers, wipes, formula, creams, ointments and baby wash.

If you cannot participate on this day,

please consider making a donation online at www. psegliny.com/feedli –Island Harvest estimates every dollar is the equivalent of two meals.

The schedule of Power to Feed collection drives is as follows:

· Sept. 1 8 a.m.

– 3 p.m. Stop & Shop

- 3126 Jericho Turnpike, East Northport

· Sept. 15 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stop & Shop - 575

West Montauk Highway, West Babylon Onsite, information will be available from PSEG Long Island on electric service payment plans and programs

and ways to save money through energy efficiency options. For additional information on Power to Feed Long Island, visit www.psegliny. com/feedLI. For more information on PSEG Long Island’s assistance and payment programs for customers experiencing financial hardship, visit https://www.psegliny. com/myaccount/ customersupport/ financialassistance. For information about Island Harvest, and for help with food insecurity issues, call 631-873-4775.

The Best Advice For Home Buyers Today

By JoAnn Cilla

Last month I met with several first-time home buyers who were frustrated with the state of the residential home market on Long Island. A few of them tried, and failed, to buy a home; others simply didn’t know where to start. The common thread with all the buyers was unpreparedness; none of them were able to make an immediate move if they found the right house. I gave them some advice which prompted my August article: 12 tips for home buyers today.

1) Determine your budget: Before you start searching for a home, establish a budget that considers your income, expenses, and savings. This will help you understand how much you can afford to spend on a property.

2) Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Obtaining a mortgage pre-approval from a lender will give you

any documents, review all contracts and paperwork associated with the purchase. It is best to seek legal advice to ensure you understand the terms and conditions.

10) Don’t overlook additional costs: Be prepared for closing costs, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance expenses to avoid any surprises.

11) Trust your instincts: While it’s important to consider the practical aspects of buying a home, also trust your instincts and emotions. If a property feels right and meets most of your requirements, it may be the right choice for you.

12) Take your time: Buying a home is a major decision. Carefully consider each step of the process and make informed choices that align with your longterm goals. Remember, these tips are general guidelines, and it’s always recommended to consult with professionals, such as real estate agents and financial advisors, for personalized advice based on your specific situation. Happy house hunting!

JOANN CILLA

a clear idea of how much you can borrow. This will make your home search more focused and help you negotiate with sellers.

3) Research the market: Look at recent sales data, property prices, and trends to understand the market conditions and make informed decisions.

4) Make a list of priorities: Create a list of features and amenities that are essential for your new home. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that meet your needs.

5) Work with a reputable real estate agent: Find a reliable and experienced real estate agent who can guide you through the home buying process. They will have access to the latest listings, negotiate on your behalf, and provide valuable advice.

6) Visit multiple properties: Don’t rush into buying the first property you see. Visit multiple homes to get a better sense of what’s available in your price range. Take notes and compare each property against your list of priorities.

7) Consider the location: Look for factors like proximity to schools, shopping centers, transportation, and other amenities that are important to you.

8) Get a professional inspection: Hire a professional home inspector to assess its condition. This will help you uncover any potential issues or repairs needed before finalizing the purchase.

9) Review the paperwork carefully: Before signing

September Happenings

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30

10:00AM-2:00PM

FOOD DRIVE BY DRIVE

Join Mercy Haven in Islip Terrace as they gather for Food Collection with members of the community, neighbors and supporters. Drive By - Drop Off - Say Hi! Visit their website mercyhaven.org for more information.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 31

5:00PM-9:00PM

BABYLON BLOCK PARTY

The Babylon Village Chamber of Commerce and Babylon Restaurant Association presents Babylon Block Party. There will be games and fun for the entire family along with live music and outdoor dining. Deer Park Avenue will be closed from Main Street to Park Avenue. For more information visit their website at babylonchamber.com/events.

8:00PM-10:00PM

BEST OF THE EAGLES

A Tribute to the Music of The Eagles will be held at The Suffolk in Riverhead. For more information call 631-727-4343 or email The Suffolk at boxoffice@suffolktheater.com with any questions.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

10:00AM-4:00PM

END OF SUMMER FESTIVAL

Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow will host an end of summer festival. It will feature food, live music, a flea market and more. Admission is free. For more information, contact 516-483-3649, email info@htocem.org or visit their website at htocem.org.

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 nataliealmeida@longislandmediagroup.com.

2:00PM-5:00PM

DAHLIA EXHIBITION AND PHOTO SHOW

The Long Island Dahlia Society will hold its annual Dahlia Exhibition and Photo Show at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Carriage House in Great River. Flowers will be on sale during the show. Exhibition flowers will be available after 3 PM on Sunday. Show is free with $8.00 parking fee. For more information visit LongIslandDahlia.org or email lidsphoto22@gmail.com for the Photo Show.

7:00PM-9:00PM

BOB ROSS PAINT NIGHT

Paint like Bob Ross in a day at Danford's in Port Jefferson. No prior experience required with step by step instruction. For more information call 631-252-1425.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

10:00AM

NEW MEMBER OPEN HOUSE

Merrick Homemakers will be hosting their new members meeting at the Seaford American Legion. Guests are welcome to stop by any first three Thursdays of the month. They hold various craft and cooking/baking classes, have speakers, and much more. Call Mary at 631-567-4483 for any additional information.

7:00PM

LINDENHURST EVENING HOMEMAKERS UNIT

Held at the Amityville Senior Center and open to all members and newcomers for women 18 years and up. New members should arrive 15 minutes early. Please contact Lisa LeBrie for more information at 516-413-7467.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

10:00AM REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

The Farmingdale United Methodist Church will hold a Remembrance Service on the 22nd anniversary of 9-11. All Farmingdale firemen/ emergency responders and their families are invited to attend, as is the general public. Please join us. For more information please call 516-694-3424 or visit farmingdaleumc.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

6:00PM-9:00PM

ISLIP'S BAY HERITAGE PROGRAM

The Historical Society of Islip Hamlet will present "Islip's Bay Heritage" at the Islip Public Library. A moderator will be coordinating a panel of lifelong Islipians who have made their living or have a home on the Great South Bay. Questions for the panel are welcome. For more information visit isliphamlethistory.org or call 631-559-2915.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

8:00AM-3:00PM

FOOD COLLECTION DRIVE

PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island summer food collection drive comes to West Babylon. Food collection bins and a drive-through option will be set up at the Stop & Shop supermarket at 575 West Montauk Highway, West Babylon, where members of the public can donate nonperishable items and household essentials for neighbors facing food insecurity.For additional information on Power to Feed Long Island, visit psegliny.com/feedLI.

Labor Day Weekend Travel Tips

Labor Day is celebrated on the same day in the United States and Canada each year. An annual holiday to celebrate the achievements of workers, Labor Day (known as Labour Day in Canada), occurs on the first Monday of September each year. Though its status as the end of summer is not technically accurate, Labor Day marks the unofficial end to the season of fun in the sun for millions of people across both the U.S. and Canada. That makes the weekend preceding Labor Day one of the most popular times to travel. Indeed, data from the Transportation Security Administration indicate that the Friday before Labor Day 2022 was the second busiest travel day at U.S. airports that summer. Travel was equally popular on Labour Day weekend 2022 in Canada, where the online booking platform Kayak reports searches for

international flights had increased by 104 percent compared to the year prior.

Labor Day weekend travel figures to be just as popular this year, so travelers can remember these tips as they plan one last summer getaway.

• Book as early as possible. With so many people

interested in traveling on Labor Day weekend, it behooves all travelers to plan ahead. Competition for hotel rooms and other lodgings might be steep, and individuals who plan to fly might have trouble finding seats on flights that leave during peak travel hours the longer

they delay.

• Consider traveling by car. Air travel aficionados had some good news and bad news as the summer travel season began in 2023. Data from FlightAware indicated that flight cancellations were down in 2023 compared to 2022. However, FlightAware

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data also indicated there were an average of 7,000 to 9,000 flight delays per day in the U.S. in the first half of 2023. No one wants to send off the last weekend of summer with a lengthy flight delay, so travelers who want to spend as much time as possible celebrating may want to drive rather than fly to their destinations.

• Drive during off-peak hours. Air travelers must cede some control over when to depart, but drivers can pick their own time to hit the road. Starting a trip during off-peak hours, such as early in the morning or even after rush hour on Thursday night, may enable drivers to avoid traffic.

• Travel light. Warm weather tends to linger into Labor Day weekend, so there’s no need to pack heavy. That’s especially noteworthy for air travelers. The lighter

travelers can pack for a flight, the less likely they will need to check a bag. That decreases the likelihood that bags will be lost if a flight is delayed or canceled, and it also allows travelers to deplane and leave the airport without having to wait around to claim their bags.

• Extend the trip. An extra day at the end of the trip can help travelers avoid the crowds on the way home. Parents may need to travel on Labor Day if school is already in session or starting on Tuesday. But travelers who have no reason to rush home can get an extra day of fun in the sun and travel home on a day that tends to be less hectic.

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer. Travelers can keep various strategies in mind to get the most out of summer’s swan song.

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‘Fun Friday’ In Port Jefferson’s Summer School

Students in the Port Jefferson School District summer school recently headed to Port Jeff Bowl for some camaraderie and

Drive Safely

(NAPSI)—Age-related physical and mental changes can affect your ability to drive safely. If you’re alert to these changes and manage them carefully, you may be able to continue driving safely for some time, say the experts at the American Geriatrics Society (AGS). Visit www.healthinaging.org/ driving-safety for more information.

The Sunshine Prevention Center 1st Annual Fall Family Festival

Do you like to volunteer for a worthwhile cause? Do you have a business, agency or talent that you would like to showcase at our upcoming event?

Our Family Fall Festival will be our first fundraiser in several years that will support our substance abuse and violence prevention programs. We are planning an event that will bring the community together for a day of family fun activities, craft vendors,

friendly competition as part of the school’s “Fun Friday” events.

“Each Friday throughout the summer we have

Ext. 276

agency resources, networking, snacks, music and much more. Mark the date: This event will be held on Saturday October 14th from 10:00 –3:00.

Applications for vendor are: https://forms.gle/ dky3muon5ZJ42Tf38

Applications for volunteers are: https://forms.gle/ jiW7UZ7FHy3SzBuP6

Can you please call me to discuss these? Thanks so much.

Stroke Is A Leading Cause Of Death

(NAPSI)—Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability. Call 911 immediately if you think you or someone around you is having a stroke.

For information on stroke risk and signs from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, visit www. stroke.nih.gov.

something special planned for the students,” Director of Special Education Dr. Jodi Cahill said. “This outing provided opportunities

from math skills, handeye coordination to team building and just enjoying a positive, fun environment.”

Fosters Wanted For Two Loving Pets

Due to unfortunate circumstances, the owner of two dogs is looking for a foster. She is presently living in her car, but is actively seeking employment and a new home. She is urgently trying to find an individual to temporarily care for both until she is able to do so again properly.

Wolf is a 10 year old Husky and Kay is a 5 year old Texas Heeler Mix. They are very attached to one another, therefore the foster must be willing to take both. They are friendly, trained, up to date on all shots, good with children and are spayed/neutered. Wolfie does well with all

dogs and cats and Kay is good with medium to large sized dogs.

Transportation of the dogs to your home for drop off and pick up would be provided. If you are interested or would like more information, please call Tanya as soon as possible at 914-309-5949.

PUZZLE ANSWERS:

‘FUN FRIDAY’ - Students in the Port Jefferson School District summer school recently headed to Port Jeff Bowl for some camaraderie and friendly competition as part of the school’s “Fun Friday” events. Port Jefferson School District students and staff at Port Jeff Bowl. Photo courtesy of the Port Jefferson School District

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