Local Scout Drew Ferrari has completed a community-focused project at the Rainbow Senior Center, constructing two raised garden beds in the facility’s courtyard. The project was part of Drew’s final requirement to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America. The new garden beds will serve as a valuable addition to the center’s seasonal programming. Drew’s project reflects a commitment to service and community enrichment, and it provides a lasting benefit for the residents and visitors of the Rainbow Senior Center.
Presiding Officer McCaffrey Recognized By Save The Great South Bay
On Saturday, September 13, 2025, Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey was presented with Save the Great South Bay’s Environmental Stewardship Award at their Oyster Ball gala for his ongoing commitment to environmental protection, clean water, and resilient coastal communities.
Presiding Officer McCaffrey’s ties to Save the Great South Bay span several years, as he is a regular participant and sponsor of their Creek Defender Program and many of their volunteer efforts to keep our south shore waterways clean. His passion turned to legislative action when Presiding Officer McCaffrey penned Suffolk County’s Water Quality Restoration Act in 2024, the culmination of several years’ worth of negotiations across all levels of government to ensure adequate protection of our
drinking water on Long Island. The Act, adopted by a referendum during the November 2024 general election with support of more than 70% of Suffolk voters, creates a long-term plan to expand and upgrade Suffolk County’s aging wastewater infrastructure and gives the County the authority to establish a new, stable, and longterm funding source for wastewater improvement projects.
“I have often quoted an adage declaring ‘these waterways, bays and streams are not ours - they are borrowed from our children and grandchildren,’” said McCaffrey. “We must do everything we can to make sure that we protect our bodies of water and the water that we drink. The only way to do that is to make an investment into our water.” To date, this additional funding source has allowed several open space acquisitions and
water quality initiatives, including a proposed water reuse project at the Bergen Point Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Presiding Officer McCaffrey was presented with the Environmental Stewardship Award by Robyn Silvestri, Executive Director of Save the Great South Bay after an
introduction by News12 long Island’s Erin Colton. At the podium, Robyn shard her appreciation for the crowd of supporters: “The Oyster Ball is all about celebrating the people who care for our Bay. Honoring Presiding Officer Legislator Kevin McCaffrey this year was such a joy—his commitment to our South
Shore communities makes a real difference for the future of the Great South Bay.”
Todd Shaw, Board President of Save The Great South Bay also shared his appreciations: “The Oyster Ball is a celebration of community and our shared commitment to restoring and protecting
the Bay. This year, we were especially honored to recognize Presiding Officer Legislator Kevin McCaffrey for his leadership and dedication to preserving Long Island’s South Shore. His support has been invaluable in helping us carry forward our mission for a cleaner, healthier bay for generations to come.”
Sausage
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Just Kids is looking to hire TAs at our 2 Lindenhurst locations!
Benefits & Pay:
Medical Bene ts after 30 days of employment
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance. 401(k), Life insurance, Parental Leave, Paid
Time Off
Position Details:
We are seeking dedicated Teaching Assistants to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with children and supporting educators in a classroom setting.
Responsibilities:
• Assist the lead teacher in implementing lesson plans and activities
• Provide support to students with various tasks and assignments
• Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities
• Help maintain a safe and clean learning environment
Requirements:
• High School Diploma or GED
• Ability to communicate positively, effectively, and appropriately with children
• Ability to use clear and understandable written and verbal communication
• Experience working with toddlers, preschoolers, or in a classroom setting is a plus!
• Teaching Assistant - Level Certi cate a plus!
Work Schedule:
Monday to Friday from 8:15am to 2:45pm (Please note certain days will require later dismissal due to necessary professional development training.)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: $18.50 - $21.50 per hour
Work Location: In person For Bower
Town Of Babylon To Host 2025 Long Island Columbus Day Parade And Italian Heritage Festival
Saturday, October 11, 2025 @ 1:00 PM
The Town of Babylon will proudly host the 2025 Long Island Columbus Day Parade and Italian Heritage Festival on Saturday, October 11. Presented by the New York State Grand Lodge of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, the parade will feature lodges, community organizations, marching bands, and floats in a vibrant display of Italian-American pride
and tradition. Following the parade, the celebration continues with the PostColumbus Day Italian Heritage and Culture Family Festival at the Constantino Brumidi Lodge #2211 in Deer Park, from 1:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The festival will include live entertainment, cultural displays, family attractions such as rides and seasonal activities, as well as food trucks, Italian cuisine,
vendors, and raffles. This annual event is one of Long Island’s most anticipated celebrations, expected to draw thousands of visitors for a day of music, food, family fun, and cultural pride.
Free parking available on Lake Avenue (across from Deer Park Fire Department) with shuttle service to the Lodge, plus street parking nearby.
Southern State Parkway Bridge To Be Renamed In Honor Of 9/11 Responder
The Route 231 Bridge over the Southern State Parkway in North Babylon will be renamed in honor of fallen September 11, 2001 responder Port Authority Detective Thomas M. Inman following the signing of legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Durso and Senator Monica R. Martinez by Gov. Kathy Hochul. The bill passed both houses of the state legislature earlier this year. The legislation dedicating the bridge was signed on the 24th anniversary of the attacks.
Detective Inman was a Vietnam veteran and a decorated member of the Port Authority Police Department, where he served for more than three decades. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, he worked 15 months at Ground Zero and in the morgue, helping to recover remains and bring closure to grieving families. He later developed cancer tied to his work at the Ground Zero site and died in 2020.
“Detective Thomas M. Inman’s career was defined by bravery, dedication, and unwavering service to our community,” said Assemblyman Michael
DETECTIVE THOMAS M. INMAN
Durso. “Let this dedication ensure his legacy of service may never be forgotten.”
“Port Authority Detective Thomas M. Inman’s life was defined by his service to our nation, his neighbors, and all New Yorkers,” Sen. Martinez said. “That service ultimately claimed his life due to cancer linked to his work at Ground Zero following the September 11th attacks. Today, his legacy stands as a tribute to his strength, courage, and compassion during those darkest days and I thank Gov. Hochul for signing this legislation to ensure Detective Inman’s name and sacrifice are forever remembered.”
According to Leonard Marone, President of the
Port Authority Detectives Endowment Association, “This dedication ensures that Detective Inman’s heroism will never be forgotten. His actions exemplify the sacrifice and strength of our law enforcement community.”
Detective Inman served in the U.S. Army at age 17 before joining the Port Authority Police Department, where he rose to the rank of detective. He retired in 2003 after 32 years of service. He is survived by his wife Diane, his partner of 50 years, as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and former colleagues.
The September 11 attacks killed nearly 3,000 people, including 72 law enforcement officers and 343 members of the New York City Fire Department. Thousands more first responders later suffered illnesses caused by exposure to toxic debris at Ground Zero.
A dedication ceremony for the “Port Authority Detective Thomas M. Inman Memorial Bridge” will be held at a later date, in conjunction with the installation of signage by the New York State Department of Transportation.
Eagle Scout Project Completed At Rainbow Senior Center
Local Scout Drew Ferrari has completed a community-focused project at the Rainbow Senior Center, constructing two raised garden beds in the facility’s courtyard. The project was part of Drew’s final requirement to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement in the
Boy Scouts of America.
The new garden beds will serve as a valuable addition to the center’s seasonal programming. During the spring and summer months, seniors who attend the center will have the opportunity to plant and grow their own fruits and vegetables. The initiative promotes wellness,
engagement, and hands-on learning, while enhancing the courtyard space for all to enjoy.
Drew’s project reflects a commitment to service and community enrichment, and it provides a lasting benefit for the residents and visitors of the Rainbow Senior Center.
U-Pick Orchards Across Long Island
Spend the day exploring one of these orchards and pick your favorites right from the tree.
Breeze Hill Farm & Preserve
31215 County RoadRoute 48, Peconic, 631876-5159
Over 75 acres, they offer 26 varieties of apples.
Hank’s PumpkinTown
240 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, 631-7264667
Long Islanders can pick a wide range of apples, including Ultimate Gala, McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Daybreak Fuji, Cortland, Macoun, Empire, Snow Sweet, Jonagold, Autumn Gala, Cameo, SunCrisp, Mutsu and Autumn Rose Fuji.
Harbes Orchard 5698 Sound Ave.,
K of C OLPH 794 Officers Installed
The Knights of Columbus Council #794 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help recently held its annual Installation of Officers. The ceremony underscored the values of faith, unity, and service that guide the Council’s work within the parish and community. Each officer pledged to carry out his responsibilities with dedication, humility, and a commitment to the principles of the Order. The installation not only recognized individual leadership but also celebrated the shared mission that unites the Council as brothers in Christ. Parishioners and family members in attendance offered prayers and support, setting a hopeful tone for the year ahead.
Riverhead, 631-683-8388
Apple Picking is available at Harbes’ Riverhead location, which has 15-acres of 27 types of apples on dwarf trees, including Honeycrisp, Daybreak Fuji, Gala and Gold Rush.
Harbes Farms Jamesport 1223 Main Road, Jamesport, 631-4944796
Honeycrisp apple picking is available at Harbes’ Jamesport location, has 7 acres of Honeycrisp apples on dwarf trees.
pick their own Gala, Honeycrisp and Macoun apples.
Milk Pail U-Pick Farm 50 Horsemill Lane, Water Mill, 631-5372565
Long Islanders can pick from their Jonamac, McIntosh, Sansa and Zestar.
Seven Ponds Orchard 65 7 Ponds Road, Water Mill, 631-726-8015
People can select Gingergold, Redfree and Zestar apples.
Wickham’s Fruit Farm 28700 Main Road, Cutchogue, 631-7346441
Dating back to 1661, the farm is one of the largest on the North Fork and offers a wide selection of apples in their You Pick Farm.
LHS Library Media Specialist Earns Prestigious Teaching Credential
The Lindenhurst Union Free School District is proud to announce that Lindenhurst High School Library Media Specialist Kelly Ricotta has earned the prestigious International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Certification for Educators, an internationally recognized credential that distinguishes her as an expert in technologyinfused teaching.
The ISTE certification requires a rigorous professional development and certification process. A challenging process, educators must demonstrate their ability to apply the ISTE Standards for Educators, a framework for rethinking education
and empowering learners. It focuses on modifying teaching techniques to leverage technology for transformative learning, promoting active student participation and critical thinking. The certification positions educators as leaders in educational technology.
“Congratulations to our very own Ms. Ricotta on this outstanding professional achievement,” said Lindenhurst High School Principal Dr. Matthew Boccanfuso. “As technology increasingly becomes embedded in our everyday lives, this recognition positions her as a premier expert in her field, and one that will help leverage this technology to best educate our students.”
Sunday, October 19, 2025
Garvies Point* • 45 Herb Hill Road, Glen Cove,
9am: Registration • 10am: Walk Begins
*Starting Point: Garvies Point Brewery & Restaurant
Fans of fall know that few things can beat the crisp, sunny afternoons of October. The early days of the month bring with them comfortable temperatures and beautiful vistas. Summer’s heat and humidity often are things of the past, and time spent outdoors, whether raking leaves or tailgating at a football game, can be quite pleasant.
Early October is home to two holidays: Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which fall this year on October 13th. That means following the first full week of the month, people in the United States have a chance to enjoy a three-day weekend to soak up all fall has to offer. Here are a few ideas.
Plan An October Weekend Getaway
Camping and hiking
Take in the awe of fall foliage up close and personal by visiting a rural area or park a short drive away from home. New York City residents, for example, can head to the Catskills, while Chicagoans can head to White Pines State Park. Different regions of the country will showcase their fall colors at other times, and while foliage may be past peak, these two- to three-hour drives can be highly enjoyable.
Fall festivals
Check out the chamber of commerce or visitors’ bureau websites of various cities and towns to see what is being offered relatively close by. Many will put on community fairs, festivals,
and the like. Columbus Day also presents a chance to celebrate Italian culture in many places, so Italian food and cultural festivals may be on the docket for those looking for such an excursion.
Skiing towns
When the last of the summer tourists depart from ski resort towns and the lull sets in before the winter ski season heats up, visitors to Colorado cities like Aspen, Telluride, or the Vermont city of Stowe can find great deals on hotel stays and dine out at relatively empty restaurants.
Warm weather culture
People who are not ready to part with warm weather can head to Miami. Miami often puts on a huge festival on Columbus Day, and people from all over the world come to enjoy it. There’s fun for all ages, and guests are welcome to arrive in costume.
Indigenous cultures
By order of the Planning Board
Chairman John Liebl
LV N & S 806 - 10/8 & 10/15/25
Individuals looking to learn more about Native Americans may want to
travel to the states with the highest populations of Indigenous peoples. These include Alaska, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, Montana, and North Dakota. It’s likely celebrations will be held in these areas, highlighting their distinct culture and heritage.
Pursuant to the provisions of Article 7 of the Village Law of the State of New York notice is hereby given a public hearing will be held before the Planning Board of the Village of Lindenhurst on Thursday, October 16, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. located at: Lindenhurst Village Hall, 430 South Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY to hear the following from the Building Department:
1. Site Plan: #10-2025 Application of Maritime Operations Corp., 3428 Pine Oak Lane, Chalfont PA 18914, regarding a site plan review for permission to stack boats 3 high and higher than 15’, permission to construct a storage shed on vacant property, and permission to use vacant parcel for the outdoor repair and storage of boats. Property located at 704-706 Clinton Place, Lindenhurst NY 11757 and zoned “Business” SCTM#: 103-022-004-013.1
The Following case(s) have been rescheduled from the July 17, 2025 Public Hearing-
1. Site Plan: #5-2025
Application of Dom Windows & Doors, 158 Bangor Street, Lindenhurst NY 11757, regarding a site plan review for a 60’X60’ Storage Garage. Property located at 158 Bangor Street, Lindenhurst NY 11757 and zoned “Industrial” SCTM#: 103-009-001-036
All cases will be heard in which they are advertised, to be followed by rescheduled cases.
OCTOBER HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 8th
12:00PM-4:00PM
SENIOR CITIZEN FALL FEST LUNCHEON
Join The New Serenaders at The Irish Coffee Pub for a Fall Fest Luncheon Party. Enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, drink, singing, and dancing fun. Included will be a 3-course meal with choice of entree, unlimited beer, wine, soda, dessert, coffee, tea, music, and more. The Irish Coffee Pub is located at 131 Carleton Ave. in East Islip. For more informaton, please call 631-277-0007
THURSDAY, OCT. 9th
7:00PM
HISTORY OF WANTAGH
Tom Watson of the Wantagh Preservation Society will talk on the History of Wantagh. Seaford Historical Society, at the museum 3890 Waverly Ave. in Wantagh. For more information, please call Judy Bongiovi 516-783-8629
6:45PM-8:30PM BOY SCOUT TROOP 1 INTEREST NIGHT
St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church 39 N. Carll Ave, Babylon Village. Are you a young man that is looking for adventure, personal challenge and community service? Come and meet the Scouts of Troop 1 Babylon and find out what we do to cover those goals. For more information, please call 631290-1314
7:00PM
LINDENHURST HOMEMAKERS EVENING GROUP
HOLIDAYS
13th - COLUMBUS DAY
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY 31st - HALLOWEEN
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 information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
at the North Amityville Senior Center 48 Cedar Rd. in Amityville. (off of New Hwy.) Open to all, 18 years old & up. Meetings start at 7:00pm, new members should arrive 15 min. early. For more information, please call Lisa LeBrie 516-413-7467
SATURDAY, OCT. 11th
1:00PM
2025 LONG ISLAND COLUMBUS DAY PARADE AND ITALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL
The Town of Babylon is proud to host the 2025 Long Island Columbus Day Parade and Italian Heritage Festival. Presented by the New York State Grand Lodge of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America. Following the parade, the celebration continues with the Post-Columbus Day Italian Heritage and Culture Family Festival at the Constantino Brumidi Lodge #2211 in Deer Park, from 1:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Free parking available on Lake Avenue (across from Deer Park Fire Department) with shuttle service to the Lodge, plus street parking nearby.
1:00PM-6:00PM
ANNUAL BREAST CANCER FUNDRAISER
Division 2 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians will be hosting its annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser, at the Irish Cultural Center in Babylon Village. This event supports two vital community organizations - the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition and the West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition - which provide direct
assistance to local individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. This is a 100% volunteerled event, and every dollar raised goes directly to these two frontline organizations. For more information, please call Ron Rice, Event Chairman, 631-335-7191 Email: ronrice107@gmail.com, Lucinda Lauro-Rooney, Event CoChair, Email: Lucindadiv2@gmail. com
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 15th
7:00PM-9:00PM
THE DEVIL IN NEW YORKTHE WITCHCRAFT TRIAL OF GOODY GARLICK
The Historical Society of Islip Hamlet will host Tara Rider and her presentation "The Devil in New York - The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick". Years before the 1692 Salem witch hunts began, accusations ran rampant. The program will be held at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Ave. Free and open to the public. For more information on this, our 2026 Holiday House Tour or to become a member, visit www. isliphamlethistory.org, or call 631559-2915
SATURDAY, OCT. 18th
10:00AM-3:00PM
ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH
THRIFT SHOP / YARD SALE
(Rain or Shine) Thrift Shop Special Event “Pack A Bag” ($5.00) many new items in all categories, Rent A Table - $25.00. 305 Carll’s Path in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-7530
Come October 31, there is extra mischief in the air, and who knows what might be lurking around those dim corners? Halloween is a time when the line between having fun and being scared is easily blurred. While trick-or-treating and attending parties are ways to enjoy the final day of October, there are plenty of other ways to make Halloween more fun.
• Read some scary stories. There’s something to be said about reading scary stories or poems on Halloween. Readers’ imaginations take over on Halloween as they envision scary characters and scenarios. Edgar Allen Poe, author of many notably macabre works, is a popular read come Halloween.
• Go pumpkin picking. Most people already make pumpkin picking an annual treat. Don’t overlook mishappen
Get Into The Spooky Spirit This Halloween
pumpkins that can be carved into spooky jacko’-lanterns. Also, enhance Halloween decor with pitted and warty gourds that lend that scary appeal.
• Create a haunted house. Instead of going elsewhere to get chills and thrills, transform your house or yard into a spooktacular vision and invite neighbors to explore.
• Make creepy crafts. Children can get a kick out of crafting Halloween decorations. Drape a piece of muslin over a beverage bottle and spray it with laundry starch. Let sit and the muslin will stiffen when it dries. Paint on black circles for eyes and hang your “ghost” from a string.
• Whip up Halloween treats. Candied apples, extra-rich brownies and mini hot dogs wrapped in crescent rolls to look like mummies are just some
of the ways to create a scary Halloween feast.
• Have a costume theme. Everyone in the household can get in on the fun by planning costumes to fit a theme. For example, everyone can dress like the Addams family.
• Host a Halloween book club. Those who love to read can ensure the October gathering of a book club is one that features a discussion of a scary book. Those looking for a scare can explore horror authors like Stephen King, Anne Rice, Dean Koontz, Clive Barker, Shirley Jackson, and Tananarive Due.
• Host an outdoor movie. Projectors can now be hooked up to smartphones and tablets, so it’s easier than ever to watch movies outside. Simply project a device onto a screen, white fence or even a bedsheet. Since it gets
dark somewhat early in October, the movie doesn’t have to start very late. Depending on the audience, choose a movie that is very scary or only mildly so if children will
be viewing.
• Organize a Halloween treat exchange. Similar to a Christmas “Secret Santa,” participants put together a wrapped gift of homemade or
store-bought foods and exchange with others. Halloween can be made even more entertaining with some extra activities that appeal to people of all ages.
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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
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
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LINDE NHURST –
Drive through a suburban neighborhood in October and it’s likely you will find yards filled with inflatable witches, animatronic grim reapers and makeshift graveyards bearing witty sayings on tombstone and bony hands reaching out from the soil. Decorating for Halloween has become big business, with consumers spending a collective $10.6 billion in this category in the United States in 2022, according to a survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics and the National Retail Federation. In fact, decorations, particularly outdoor decorations, were the second most popular way to celebrate Halloween (candy still reigns supreme).
According to research by LombardoHome.com, which looked at Google searches across the country, Las Vegas, Denver, Baltimore, Portland, Oregon, and Seattle were the top five states that searched the most for Halloween decorations on average per capita. Carved pumpkins, skeletons and witch cauldrons topped the list of preferred Halloween decorations in America.
Halloween is an opportunity
to pull out all the stops for this fun fall celebration. The following tips can help to turn any home into a Halloween haunt to remember.
• Decide on a theme. Most people fall into one of two camps when decorating for Halloween. There are those who want their homes to be frightening and full of horrific details, and others who prefer more of a fall harvest look. Identify your preferences and then gather decorative items accordingly.
• Shop early/late. Ideally, the best time to buy Halloween decorations is the day after the holiday when prices get slashed (pun intended). This is the time to stock up on items for next year. You can save anywhere from 50 to 70 percent when buying late in the season. For those who need new items for this year’s Halloween, close-out retailers like HomeGoods and TJ Maxx start putting out Halloween products in the middle of summer. Stock up as soon as you see items, as they’re not likely to remain on shelves for long. By the time October rolls around, decorations may be gone.
• Subtle touches can work.
Though some people just love covering every square foot of a property with all things Halloween, it’s also possible to make a big impact with minimal effort. Lighting, or lack thereof, can create a spooky atmosphere. Swap existing porch lights with yellow or even black lights so everything glows. Candles flickering can add mystery. Place some batterypowered or electric candles in windows for an eerie feel. Swap out your typical curtains with purple or black ones to drape the house in even more spooky appeal.
• Wait on the carved pumpkins. Halloween seldom is complete without jack-o’lanterns. But pumpkins often begin to degrade shortly after they’re first carved. Use artificial pumpkins if you plan to decorate early; otherwise, wait until a day or two before Halloween to add freshly carved pumpkins to the Halloween scape. Children can come up with the design, but ensure only adults cut into the pumpkins. Homeowners can quickly and easily transform their homes into spooky haunts this Halloween.
As we celebrate the spirit of exploration, courage, and new beginnings. Just as Columbus set sail to discover new horizons, this is the perfect reminder that every journey begins with a single step forward.
