August 14, 2024 Wantagh

Page 1


South Bay's Neighbor

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY - Valhallan Esports Training

On July 17th, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads joined Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from Congressman Anthony D’Esposito’s office and Legislator Michael Giangregorio’s office to warmly welcome Nicholas Lotito, Matt Dubler, and Than Tienauchariya, the entrepreneurs behind Valhallan Esports Training. See inside for more ribbon-cutting celebrations.

OPEN HOUSE • SUNDAY 1-3PM • 117 OCEAN AVE. MASSAPEQUA

SHORES MAJESTIC CUSTOM HOME $1,749,000

Custom 2 Story Foyer, Walk In Designer Closets, Radiant Heat Throughout, Security System , Heated, Salt Water Igp W/Waterfalls, Pavers, Whole House Generator, Walk In Pantry Each Floor, Cac High End Appl, 3.5 Heated Garage. ½ Acre. Jeanne Alessi, Licensed NYS RE Salesperson

EAST MEADOW THE BELAIRE CONDOS $478,800

55+ Community, Top 4th Floor , Westerly Unobstructed Views, 6 Rooms, 2-Bedrms, 2-Bath, Master Suite, W/D Fully Renovated, Open Concept, Great Amenities, Heated Outdoor Pool, Gym W Locker Room, Pvt Room Available, Ada Compliant. Patrick Hart, Licensed NYS RE. Assoc. Broker

Amazing Two Story Colonial Huge EIK, 4 Bdrm, 3 Fbaths, Laundry Room, Radiant Heat, HVAC, Updated. Garage is 490 S/F with Access to Attic.

North Bellmore, Expanded Ranch, 12 Rms, 5 Bdrms, 2 Fbths Poss. M/D $809,000 Massapequa South Gate Condo’s, 6 Rooms, 2 Bedrm, 2 FBths, Pvt Dock, $629,000 Seaford, SD#6, Dormered Cape, 7 Rms, 4 Bdrms, 2 Fbths,1 Car Att Garage, No Flood ins. $578,800 REDUCED & READY JUST SOLD/PENDING

5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath, WF Strong C3A Zoning, 250 Ft. Steel Pier, Private Beach, Boat Dock, Sea Plane Ramp, Gated Lot. Diane Keegan, Licensed NYS RE Salesperson

Seaford, Legal 2, 3 Bdrms, 2Bth, 2nd Flr. $3500 Nassau, Suffolk Rentals $1500 - $2500 SOUTH FREEPORT BAYFRONT/WATERFRONT $999,000+ Meister Beach, Stunning Colonial.10 Rms, 4 Bdrms, 2.5 Fbths, Granite/ Stainless Eik,Tile Floors, 2 Story Sunroom W/5 Person Hot Tub, New Bulkhead & Floating Dock 5 Mins To Jones Beach. Richard M. Shane, G.R.I., Licensed NYS RE Broker/Owner, 516-996-9555 PENDING 1-3% PVT IT

East Rockaway, Pristine Prop,10 Rms, 4 Bdrms, 2 Bths, Hdwd Flrs, Det. Garage. Pending $680’s

East Meadow, New Build, Huge EIK, 4 Bdrm, 3 Fbaths, Lndry,. 490 S.F. Garage Pending $1,388,000

Wantagh, Beautiful 3 Bdrm, 2 Fbth Updated Kitchen/Bath, Paver/Patio. Move In. Pending $649,000

Wantagh, 2 Story Office Bldg, 7 Units with Private Parking Lot, 6666 S.F SOLD

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads Joins Wantagh Chamber In Welcoming 3 New Businesses To Wantagh Lulu’s Organic Juice Bar, Dino-Mite Vintage, And Valhallan Esports Training

On July 17th, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads joined Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from Congressman Anthony D’Esposito’s office and Legislator Michael Giangregorio’s

office to celebrate three ribbon cuttings, warmly welcoming Nicholas Lotito, Matt Dubler, and Than Tienauchariya, the entrepreneurs behind Valhallan Esports Training; Jaina Shaw, the proprietor of Dino-Mite Vintage; and Asifat Chowdhury, the owner of Lulu’s Organic

Juice Bar, to the vibrant Wantagh community. Senator Rhoads expressed gratitude to these small business owners, acknowledging their vital role in infusing the area with energy and dynamism. He also emphasized his unwavering support for small businesses and

excitement about fostering their success. The presence of these businesses, from the unique training facility for esports enthusiasts to the charming vintage shop and the healthconscious juice bar, testifies to the diversity and vitality of Wantagh. These entrepreneurs are

not merely establishing businesses; they are actively contributing to the social and economic fabric of the community, creating employment opportunities, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. Senator Rhoads congratulated the business owners on officially opening their doors to the community and recognized the three ribbon cuttings as a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners, who are the backbone of local economies.

Town Of Hempstead Unveils Long Island’s First Ever Adaptive Pickleball Court

Pickleball continues to bounce its way into the hearts of thousands of residents throughout America’s largest township, and Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin has been keeping up with the demand! Today, Clavin excitedly unveiled Long Island’s first adaptive pickleball court at Forest City Park in Wantagh. The pickleball court marks the first ever ADA-accessible court on Long Island and brings the Town of Hempstead’s total number of pickleball courts to 58.

“Pickleball has taken the Town of Hempstead by storm,” said Clavin. “This fun sport is easy to play yet difficult to master and is accessible to all ages. Today, we are proud to increase the accessibility of the sport by unveiling a brand new court that is fully ADA-accessible. All that’s left is to serve up a game and a smile!” The

ADA-accessible pickleball court at Forest City Park in Wantagh is open for business! The court is free to use and operates on a first-come, firstserved basis. The adaptive pickleball court at Forest City Park is 44 feet wide and 74 feet long, with additional space surrounding the court for more accessibility. Equipment is not provided, so participants are encouraged to bring their own paddle and ball. Pickleball continues to be one of the hottest sports in the Town of Hempstead. With plenty of players abound, it’s easy to find a pick-up game at a Town of Hempstead park. Adaptive pickleball play remains largely the same, however players who use wheelchairs may allow the ball to bounce twice before returning it. Additionally, wheelchair players may also have their front wheels touch the “no

volley zone,” also known as the “kitchen,” during a volley. Although the court remains free to play, there is special equipment to help with adaptive pickleball playing. For example, many wheelchair players prefer lightweight paddles with grips and wheelchairfriendly balls. Wheelchairfriendly balls are slightly softer and provide better

bounce control on the court. Also, many wheelchair users opt for sports wheelchairs, which are specialized wheelchairs designed for increased mobility and maneuverability. There are many benefits to playing pickleball, and its health benefits are a key factor in the sport’s popularity for all ages. The low impact sport places minimal stress on

joints and muscles, provides a workout that can improve heart health and circulation, strengthens flexibility and coordination, and promotes the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural mood elevators. Pickleball has been proven to improve cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and problem-solving, while also reducing the risk of

depression and anxiety. “We are thrilled to unveil additional pickleball facilities to keep up with the increased demand for this fast-growing sport,” said Clavin. “The Town of Hempstead is proud to be home to thousands of eager pickleball players, and we are committed to providing a fair playing field for all lovers of the game!”

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONIES - Left to Right: Lulu’s Organic Juice Bar (1881 Wantagh Avenue), Dino-Mite Vintage (2099 Wantagh Avenue), and Valhallan Esports Training (3004 Merrick Road).

Wantagh Museum’s Third Annual Antique Car Show

The Wantagh Museum held its 3rd Annual Antique Car Show on Saturday, July 20th, at the Wantagh Museum, located at 1700 Wantagh Avenue in Wantagh. The community came out to see the antique cars, participate in the 50/50 Raffle, Kid’s Crafts, and enjoy the Music. Photos courtesy of www.Wantagh.LI

Miss Wantagh 2014 Kayla Knight (left) joined by (from left to right) NYS Senator Steven Rhoads, Carol Poulos, Wantagh Museum Curator, and Fred Parola, past Nassau County Comptroller

How Families Can Get Ready For A New School Year

Children will soon be trading in the chimes of neighborhood ice cream trucks for the bells of school as summer vacation gives way to the start of a new academic year. August through September is prime backto-school season, with children all across the country stocking their backpacks and shopping for new school wardrobes. There is more to getting ready for the start of school than making sure pencils are sharpened and tablets are charged. Parents and children can work together to ensure the transition back to the classroom is as seamless as possible.

Adjust Sleep And Wake Times

Summer vacation often means letting loose of schedules for a while, and that may translate into later-thannormal bedtimes and rising a little later in the morning. Everyone in the household will have to reacquaint themselves with schedules that ensure kids get to school on time. A few weeks before the first day of school, start incrementally going to bed at an earlier time and start waking up earlier each morning. Try to plan out the increments so that by the time the last few days of summer vacation wind down, the family is on target with a waking

and testing while on summer break, but it can be beneficial to stay current on some lessons. Summer slide refers to the loss of some of the learning achieved during the previous school year over the summer break. Some experts say summer slide is overstated, but it

can’t hurt for students to refresh their memories on some math, science and language arts concepts over break so that they will be ready to hit the books when the new school year begins.

Prep for school lunches

Children and adults can work together to map out

healthy eating options for school lunch. Many school districts have lunch plans that can be purchased through an online account. Participating students simply enter a number or swipe a code at checkout. School lunches are built to be nutritionally diverse and have options that even

picky eaters will like. School is right around the corner, and families should get ready for the routine and needs that go with the academic year as the first day draws closer.

schedule that mirrors the school schedule.

Acclimate To Being Around People

Although summer vacation may involve trips that bring children in contact with other people, it may have been some time since they’ve spent five or more hours per day around 20 to 30 people their age. It may take a transition period to get used to being around a bunch of peers, so families can visit places where there tend to be crowds of kids, such as zoos, aquariums, parks, and trampoline centers. These can be lowpressure locations to dust off social skills.

Know the route or plan for school transportation

Students may be driven independently, ride the school bus, walk or bike, or carpool with others to and from school. Families can establish plans so that getting to and from school is not something kids need to worry about. Practice routes and timing, taking into consideration that when schools open there will be much more traffic.

Parents can reassure children that there will be a learning curve, but all of the kinks generally get worked out during the first week.

Avoid “summer slide”

Most students don’t want to think about studying, homework

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE Kiwanis Club Of Wantagh FOOD

DRIVE

August 24 2024 - 10:00AM to 1:30PM

King Kullen - 1340 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793

Food insecurity is not a new way of life for many Long Islanders, but it can be for some. During the summer when school is out, many children go without getting that important balanced meal each week day. We have all heard about the growing need for food support as the cost of basic goods have risen over the years. Families and individuals struggle with providing nutrition on tight budgets and often resort to the elimination of meats, fish, fresh vegetables, fruits, and other healthy choices just to fill the stomachs of their family members. All children and many adults love a treat occasionally, but when money is stretched to cover the most basic human needs, those things that many take for granted like an ice cream cone on a sweltering day or a big black and white cookie are impossible. It is especially hard for children to understand why their friends can have these childhood pleasures and they cannot.

Many of our seniors who have worked hard throughout their lives now find themselves on limited incomes with the cost of living rising much faster than their social security checks. Many continue to work to try to bridge the gap between the cost of basic needs, medication, a place to live and maintaining their independence. Many of our Island’s seniors have fought to protect our country during war and provided security for our nation during times of peace. At home their spouses have taken care of the family. Now as age, disabilities, health, and other issues minimize their ability to provide for themselves, they

need some help from their friends and neighbors. These are proud Americans who have difficulty accepting help and due to their strong sense of independence do not want to even ask.

Long Islanders are generous people and the Wantagh community is especially remarkable in this way. We are a community of people that have worked hard to build the oasis that is our home. It has been a tough road, but each of us has endured to give our lives purpose, our families opportunity, and our community respect for those that are struggling. We come together often during the holiday season to share some of our bounty with those needing help, but that is not always enough.

I am referring to the very basics that allow for healthy survival that gives people the energy and ability to work and for children to learn with bodies nourished with foods that help their brains develop properly. One might think that food insecurity would mean a population that is dangerously underweight. When I was a child the pictures of children starving to death is Africa was my first encounter with food insecurity. However, what we often find in our country are people filling up on nutrition starved carbs just to have a feeling of being full so that they are not feeling the gnawing pain of hunger, so they can work, sit in school, or just fall asleep.

Imagine an athlete trying to perform without the proper nutrition to build their muscles, ligaments, heart, and other vital parts of the body. Many children and adults live silently in

pain and embarrassment due to malnutrition. Not having food to eat is not something that people boast about. In fact, it becomes part of the shame of financial instability, job loss or generational poverty.

The newly released 2022 “Map the Meal Gap” study from Feeding America reported an estimated 221,190 people on Long Island were food insecure. That is an increase of 58.3% from the 2021 estimate of 139,760 people. The USDA defines food insecurity as a “lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.”

To better understand the reality of not having enough food to survive much less thrive, I spoke to some people to see how they are managing. One person who is not homeless but due to job loss and working for much less than previously is caught making the difficult decision between rent, car, medication, or food. For this person, food is the last

need on the list. Another person said that instead of the healthy foods wanted and should be eaten, the challenge is to make meals for less than a dollar. That means making a meal pasta, beans, rice and whatever is on sale to make the one meal a day as nutritious as possible. It was mentioned that the fall back of adding eggs to pasta are now often too expensive to add protein to the meal. Fresh produce is a rare treat when on sale. Due to another person’s pride falling from the relative affluence they once lived, this person endures silently trying to rebuild a life once known. None of these people are alone, but unfortunately many go unnoticed. There are hungry people in just about every neighborhood on Long Island. Despite the efforts of many large, wellrun organizations, there remains more need than there is food donated.

Often people who have never experienced this kind of threat to their own survival think people must be lazy, unwilling to work

hard so that they can afford basic foods. The sad reality is that rising costs due to floods, heat, disease, and other natural disasters have affected our food production in the US, around the world and it is projected to get worse in the years to come. That means less food is available for more people and the costs continue to rise. There is also a painfully lax system of oversight that provides handouts to many people that should not be receiving such benefits which steals food and services from the people most in need. Every systemic abuse ultimately robs provisions from the most vulnerable, often with no enforcement. When asked about fixing the system you hear that they are doing the best that they can. Try to put a child to bed when their stomach is growling from hunger. In the end, children, seniors, our Veterans, disabled and other people in desperate need fall through the cracks of a system that is too stressed.

Every one of us could face a significant life challenge, a serious illness that depletes financial resources, a fire or an accident caused by an uninsured driver. Anyone could find themselves suddenly out of the lifestyle we have been accustomed to and feeling the uncertainty of what the next day will bring.

This is why the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh holds frequent food drives to help provide lifesaving food basics to pantries in our community. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Wantagh residents and the ongoing collaboration and kindness of King Kullen allowing our food drives, we are helping our silent neighbors.

Without judgement or question, your contributions at our frequent food drives are making lives better, feeding elderly citizens, helping children have food to open their minds to a brighter future and easing the stress on families to survive. The need for food in addition to paper products like toilet paper, paper towels, diapers for little ones of all ages, baby food and formula continue to be in great demand at the pantries.

The Kiwanis Club of Wantagh is a 100% volunteer organization. Every morsal of food donated, or dollars dropped into the collection bin immediately goes to the food pantries in Wantagh. Kiwanians contribute our time and funds to support children and families in need in many ways. We look forward to our food drives and hope to add more to support the growing need. For this Kiwanian, the food drives make me feel like we are actively making lives better for people in our community.

We need your support again on Saturday, August 24th to help us feed our neighbors. If you cannot attend the food drive contributions can be sent to The Kiwanis Club of Wantagh, PO Box 1, Wantagh, New York, 11793 and write FOOD DRIVE in the memo section on your check. Your funds will be delivered to our two local pantries: St. Francis Food Pantry and St. Jude Episcopal Food Pantry both in Wantagh. Together we can change lives!

SHOW STOMPIN IRISH DANCE

for the second year in a row a Pat DeRosa Memorial Scholarship was awarded in memory of LIMEHOF inductee Pat DeRosa.

Cooper Arbisi (Massapequa, NY, Massapequa High School)

Stephen Buff (Center Moriches, NY, Center Moriches High School, Flute)

Cody Chelune (Levittown, NY, Island Trees High School, Vocal, Tenor)

Jocelyn Chiu (Albertson, NY, Herricks High School, Instrument: Harp)

Giuliana Gallone (Kings Park, NY, Kings Park High School, Vocal/Bass Clarinet, Guitar & Piano)

Dara Gordon (Dix Hills, NY, Commack High School Vocal/Musical Theater)

Emily Helbock (Sayville, NY, Sayville High School, Instrument: French Horn/Piano)

Ryan Loughlin (Farmingdale, NY, Farmingdale High School, Vocal, Bass/Baritone, Cello/Piano)

Aidan Passaro (Mt. Sinai, NY, Mt. Sinai High School, Vocal, Tenor/Piano)

Julian Zuzzolo (Sea Cliff, NY, North Shore High School, Percussion)

Pat DeRosa Scholarship Winner

Peter Hoss (Greenlawn, NY, Harborfields High School, Tenor Saxophone)

“We are thrilled to award these scholarships to such talented and dedicated young musicians,” said Tom Needham, LIMEHOF’s Educational Programs Director. “Supporting the next generation of music students as they embark on their college journeys is at the heart of our mission. These scholarships not only recognize their hard work and passion but also reinforce our commitment to nurturing musical talent and education within our community. We can’t wait to see what these young people will accomplish in their musical careers.”

This is the first year that LIMEHOF has expanded its scholarships to include not only music but also the performing arts. This also marks the largest number of scholarships awarded in a single year since the program began.

LIMEHOF has awarded tens of thousands of scholarships to Long Island high school students since its inception. The students submit applications that are judged by LIMHOF’s education committee, chaired by board member Tom Needham. This year had a record number of applications received. Students from schools in Queens and Brooklyn are eligible to apply in addition to those from Nassau and Suffolk Counties. For more information about LIMEHOF’s scholarships and educational programs visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/scholarshipsgrants/

Levittown Public Library

1 Bluegrass Lane Levittown, N.Y. 11756 www.levittownpl.org

contact: pr@levittownpl.org 516-731-5728

AUGUST 2024

Friday, August 16 at 1:00–4:00 PM

Adult Program: Summer Party Game Day Engage in playful competition with one-on-one and group games for a chance to win prizes. Board games and digital screen games will be available, and you can try our Virtual Reality headsets! Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required at www.levittownpl. org under Upcoming Events. In-person program. No Fee.

Monday, August 19 at 2:00 PM

MATINEE CLASSIC MOVIE

College Swing with commentary given by “The Movie Man” John Carpenter

1938 Classic-Starring: Bob

Hope and Gracie Allen

A scatterbrain inherits a small-town college and turns it into a party school. Total time-1 hr., 26 minutes. Comedy/Musical No tickets required. In-person program. No Fee.

Monday, August 19 at 6:30 PM

Cooking with Chef Dell’Amore Chef Rob Dell’Amore will prepare vegan chili. Enjoy samples at the library. Registration is required at www.levittownpl.org Upcoming Events. Inperson program. There is a fee.

Tuesday, August 20 at 7:00 PM

Adult Program: Page Turners Book Discussion Two Nights in Lisbon by Chris Pavone

A woman wakes up to discover her new husband is missing and sets out on a wild race of power,

politics, and revenge in this international thriller. Register at www.levittownpl. org under Upcoming Events. In-person program. No Fee.

Wednesday, August 21 from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

AARP Defensive Driving Class

AARP is offering this 6-hour defensive driving course for licensed drivers. Registration is required at www.levittownpl.org Upcoming Events. Inperson program. There is a fee.

Friday, August 23 from 2:00-3:30 PM

Indoor Summer Concert:

A Tribute to Elvis Steve Mitchell, an inductee of the International Elvis Impersonator Hall of Fame, pays tribute to Elvis Presley. Tickets required. Reserve tickets at www.levittownpl. org-Upcoming Events. This program will be in person. No fee

Supervisor Don Clavin and the Hempstead Town Board recently appointed Chris Schneider of Wantagh to fill a board vacancy at the August 6th Town Board meeting. The appointment was unanimously passed 6-0, and Schneider was immediately sworn in to represent a district that includes Lido Beach, Point Lookout, and parts of Bellmore, Freeport, Merrick, Seaford, and Wantagh. Schneider succeeds Councilman Chris Carini, who tragically passed away on July 14th.

“On behalf of the Town Board, I am proud to welcome Chris Schneider as the newest member of the Town Board,” Supervisor Don Clavin said. “Although the Town of Hempstead suffered a great loss with the passing of Councilman Chris Carini, the Town Board and I truly believe that Chris Schneider is the

Chris Schneider Joins Town Board, Represents 5th Councilmanic District

perfect person to carry on Chris Carini’s legacy. I have known Chris Schneider a long time, and I know he is someone who cares deeply about his community and is committed to always doing what’s in the best interest of the residents. I am confident that the residents of the 5th Councilmanic District will benefit from the work ethic and experience he brings to our team.”

Schneider has long been a community leader in Wantagh and Seaford, and since 2022, he has represented Seaford on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Community Council, working hand-in-hand with our police for safe communities. Schneider has also been instrumental in protecting the qualityof-life of residents in the 5th Councilmanic District, as he has served on the 5th District Graffiti Watch

Task Force, combating community blight. Additionally, Schneider has served as Trustee and Vice President of the WantaghSeaford Homeowners Association for nearly 20 years, and has served as a member of the Seaford Manor PTA.

“Councilman Carini was a tireless and dedicated advocate for the communities he represented, and the 5th Councilman District was the beneficiary of the Councilman Carini’s work. His passing was truly tragic, and he is sorely missed. It is my goal to continue his legacy of effectiveness, hard work and caring,” Councilman Schneider said. “Thank you to Supervisor Clavin and the Town Board for putting their faith in me and I am eager to begin working together for the nearly 800,000 residents in America’s largest township.”

Prior to his appointment, Schneider worked for over 20 years for the New York State Senate, amassing a wealth of institutional knowledge of government and the important role it plays in the lives of residents. Beyond this and most recently, Schneider has worked in a senior leadership role for the

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). As Director of Communications at AFA, Schneider has worked to advance the mission of this vital organization, as well as enhance public awareness for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Chris brings this passion for helping others to his new

role as Councilman, where he will work with the Town Board to help keep the Town of Hempstead a great place to live, work, and raise a family.Councilman Schneider graduated from University of Massachusetts at Amherst cum laude and currently lives in Seaford, with his wife and two children.

Hempstead Town, AMSEAS Return Sea Turtle To Atlantic

Supervisor Don Clavin and representatives from the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMSEAS) celebrated at Town Park Point Lookout

as a rehabilitated Kemp’s ridley sea turtle named Orzo was returned to the Atlantic Ocean. The endangered young reptile was found cold-stunned last fall and placed in the

care of AMSEAS wildlife experts.

“The Kemp’s ridley species is the most endangered of all sea turtles, so returning Orzo to the Atlantic Ocean is critical for the re-population of these majestic creatures,” said Supervisor Clavin. “We are grateful to the AMSEAS team for rehabilitating

Orzo, and to all the residents who came out to cheer on the return journey.”

Orzo is classified as a juvenile, between the ages of 2-5 years, so the gender cannot be determined at this time. It is believed that the Kemp’s ridley species can live 30 to 50 years.

Supervisor Clavin added that residents who come

across a sea turtle in distress should not attempt a rescue. While it may seem helpful to simply return the animal to the water, a cold-stunned turtle can easily drown. Instead, residents should contact parks staff or the 24-hour New York State Stranding Hotline at (631) 369-9829.

Sea turtles are one of many species with

which the Town shares oceanfront beaches. From piping plovers and other birds that nest along Town beaches, to visits from sharks, whales, dolphins, and other marine life, our Town takes great pride in managing a delicate ecosystem shared by both humans and animals.

“Hempstead Town is committed to protecting

the local environment and ensuring the continued survival of animals like Orzo,” concluded Supervisor Clavin. “We thank the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society and our many ecoconscious residents for their dedication to this important cause.”

5,582 Books Collected During Successful Book Drive

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads recently achieved a remarkable milestone in his mission to take an active role in promoting literacy and education on Long Island by collecting an impressive 5,582 books during a week-long book drive across various libraries in his Senate District. This initiative was executed in collaboration with Book Fairies, a dedicated organization committed to redistributing books to under-resourced communities. Recognizing the importance of access to reading materials, Senator Rhoads aimed to not only enhance childhood education but also foster

a lifelong love of learning among children, particularly those who may not have the means to obtain books on their own.

The resounding success of this book drive was made possible through the generous contributions of local residents, as well as the enthusiastic participation of several community libraries, including the Farmingdale Public Library, Hicksville Public Library, Island Trees Public Library, Levittown Public Library, and Seaford Public Library. Each location served as a hub for donations, collecting a diverse array of titles, from charming baby books to engaging chapter books. In the coming weeks, Book Fairies will distribute these collected materials to families and children in need. Senator Rhoads expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, emphasizing that such collaborative endeavors not only provide resources and support for those who may be struggling, but also cultivates a culture of kindness and generosity that resonates throughout the community.

5,582 BOOKS COLLECTED - New York State Senator Steve Rhoads recently achieved a remarkable milestone in his mission to take an active role in promoting literacy and education on Long Island by collecting an impressive 5,582 books during a week-long book drive across various libraries in his Senate District.

On July 7, a proactive collaboration between New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, dedicated community volunteers, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) took significant strides towards

Environmental Conservation in Action!

preserving the ecological balance of Mill Pond in Wantagh with a Water Chestnut Pull. The group undertook the crucial task of removing invasive water chestnut species, known for depriving the pond’s fish and other aquatic life of oxygen. The

water chestnuts not only proliferate rapidly but also deplete the oxygen levels in the water, threatening the survival of native aquatic life and disrupting the pond’s natural habitat.

Senator Rhoads’ clean-up effort was not only a hands-on

approach to combatting environmental threats, but also served as an educational opportunity for community members. Volunteers were made aware of the importance of maintaining clean waterways and understanding the broader environmental implications of invasive species. As a testament

to their hard work and commitment, Senator Rhoads and the group of volunteers successfully collected an impressive 150 bags of water chestnuts, illustrating the significant impact a united community can have on local conservation efforts.

Senator Rhoads has hosted the Water Chestnut Pull numerous times

as a County Legislator and continues to host the clean-ups as a State Senator. Such initiatives not only enhance the health of Mill Pond, but also foster a sense of stewardship among residents, inspiring future generations to take an active role in protecting their natural surroundings.

Town Board Announces Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic

Don Clavin, Supervisor, and Hempstead Town Board colleagues recently joined Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Siegel to discuss the recent rabies case involving a feral cat found in Cedarhurst. This has marked the first rabies case in Nassau County since 2016, highlighting the critical need for vigilance. To help

combat this issue, they’re partnering with the Nassau County Department of Health to offer a free rabies vaccination clinic to all Nassau residents on August 24th from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. To protect yourself and your pets from rabies:

- Avoid feeding or touching wild animals.

- Keep your pets up-to-date

on vaccinations.

- Keep pets indoors at night.

- Don’t touch dying or dead animals.

For more details, visit https://hempsteadny.gov/ or contact the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter at 516-785-5220. Let’s stay proactive and keep our furry friends safe and healthy!

FREE RABIES VACCINATION CLINIC - Don Clavin, Supervisor, and Hempstead Town Board colleagues recently joined Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Siegel to discuss the recent rabies case involving a feral cat found in Cedarhurst. To help combat this issue, they’re partnering with the Nassau County Department of Health to offer a free rabies vaccination clinic to all Nassau residents on August 24th from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter.

Summer Of Love At Town Animal Shelter!

As we enjoy the height of summer, Don Clavin, Supervisor, is pawsitively thrilled to remind you of the heartwarming initiative from the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter—the “Summer of Love” Pet Adoption Program. This special event will run through September 1st and offers you the opportunity to bring home a new furry

friend.

The “Summer of Love” program is designed to ensure that every pet finds a loving home. As part of this initiative, all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes FREE spaying/ neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.

Tunnel To Towers Softball Game

raise charitable funds for America’s

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation provided mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and builds specially-adapted smart homes for injured veterans and first responders. Senator Rhoads was happy to see this game bring together families, friends, and first responders, all of whom are united by their support for our fallen heroes.

Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs.

This summer, let’s spread the love and provide a fur-ever home to our shelter animals. We look forward to seeing you at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter and hope you find the purr-fect addition to your family.

TUNNEL TO TOWERS SOFTBALL GAME IN WANTAGH - New York State Senator Steve Rhoads joined Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman at the Tunnel to Towers benefit softball game at Wantagh Park to
heroes.

9:30am-8:00pm

9:30am-9:00pm

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.