September 24, 2025 Copiague

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South Bay's Neighbor

Call for Copiague Yearbooks!

Do you have an old Copiague school yearbook laying around? Consider donating it to the library’s yearbook collection! We are specifically looking for yearbooks from 1967, 1973, 1988, 1990, 1991, 2000, 2016, 2019, and 2023.

Copiague Memorial Public Library

Halloween Costume Donation

Our Copiague teens will be collecting new or gently used costumes to be distributed just in time for Halloween! Come down to the Library anytime to donate your previous Halloween or dance recital costumes. A donation bin will be placed inside the Library. Beginning

Monday, October 6 our Boo-tique will be opened to browse for costumes.

Toiletry Drive through October 25

Hygiene products are essential to maintaining good health and can provide relief to individuals and families who are in need. Join us as we celebrate the Great Give Back by helping those families by donating new and unused items such as: dental hygiene products (toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, etc.), sanitization and PPE items (face coverings/ masks, sanitation wipes, hand sanitizer, gloves) and bathing products (shampoo, conditioner, soap, towels, etc.).

Holiday Food Drive

October 1 - November 30

The Library is hosting a food drive to support the

Ace Center Food Pantry in North Amityville. We can accept donations of nonperishable food in jars, cans and sealed packets. We cannot accept anything homemade, expired, past its “best by” date, or opened items.

Celebration of Nutrition Wednesday, September 24

6:00 - 7:00 PM

Join SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator Anthony Garcia as he shares practical tips, clever tricks, and delicious recipes to help you celebrate healthy eating and better nutrition. Registration is required.

Medicaid Enrollment Assistance for the Aged, Blind and Disabled Friday, September 26 2:00 - 6:00 PM

Representatives from the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council will assist aged, blind and disabled patrons

in enrolling in various Medicaid programs that may be available to them. Assistance will be given on a first come, first served basis. For more information, please call the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council at 631-9634168. Registration is not required.

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A Warm Welcome For Copiague’s New Educators

The Copiague School District proudly welcomed new teachers during a twoday orientation on August 25 and 26, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Bannon, Board of Education First Vice President Kenneth Urban and Assistant

Superintendent for Human Resources Todd Andrews opened the program with warm greetings and words of encouragement, highlighting the strong sense of community that defines Copiague.

“You can make a difference every single day; our students truly need

you,” Dr. Bannon reminded the new educators. “It’s all about building those relationships at every level – with your students, with your principals, with your colleagues and with central office.”

Mr. Urban added, “Listen to everything you’re going to learn over

the next few days. You have such knowledgeable administrators and principals who are going to walk you through everything. The success of our students is your success. “

Throughout the orientation, teachers were introduced by their building

principals, engaged in presentations on creating positive and effective learning environments, and explored ways to set students up for success from day one. A highlight of the program was a community bus tour, led by Deauville Gardens East Elementary School Principal Joseph

Buccello, giving teachers the opportunity to get to know the neighborhoods they’ll be serving.

The new teachers wrapped up the two-day orientation with visits to their respective schools, where they connected with colleagues and began preparing for the year ahead.

Copiague School District welcomed new teachers during a two-day orientation on August 25 and 26. Photos

Women In Business From Across Long Island Come Together For Annual Multi-Chamber Networking Event

Women professionals and entrepreneurs from across Long Island came together in the heart of Farmingdale for the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce’s annual Women in Business Multi-Chamber Networking Event. Held at the lively and welcoming 317 Main Street, the gathering brought together talent, leadership, and community spirit for an evening of networking, collaboration, and celebration.

The event—hosted by the Farmingdale Chamber’s Mind Your Business women’s group—welcomed members from multiple Long Island chambers of commerce, reinforcing the power of connection among women in business. This year’s program was co-chaired by Catherine Gabreski and Christa Lucarelli, with Roberta Perry of ScrubzBody® Skin Care Products volunteering

as the evening’s energetic emcee.

Attendees were inspired by guest speakers Faith Lovell and Elizabeth Hashagen, who shared empowering messages about leadership, resilience, and building strong professional networks.

The evening was filled with inspiration, connection, and community spirit—plus it raised $2,000 for Bethany House, helping women and children in need.

Local businesses added special touches that made the evening unforgettable:

• 317 Main Street and The Nutty Irishman Recovery Room – for food, desserts, and warm hospitality

• Mionetto Prosecco – for adding sparkle to the celebration

• Signature Sounds Entertainment – for the fun photo booth

• Balloons and Bouncers – for the festive backdrop

• KarinaCPhotography –for capturing the event beautifully

• A Plus Linens – for donating décor elements

“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Roberta Perry. “It’s a testament to what’s possible when women from all backgrounds come together to support each other’s success—not just in business, but in

community.”

Guests enjoyed a supportive, empowering environment designed to foster meaningful relationships and promote professional growth among women-led businesses.

For more information about upcoming events or to join the Farmingdale Chamber’s Mind Your Business initiative, visit www. farmingdalenychamber.org.

courtesy of Copiague School District

SEPTEMBER HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, SEPT. 25th

6:00PM-7:00PM

PLANT BINGO

Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Avenue in Wantagh. Win a plant while enjoying an evening of BINGO fun! Refreshments served after the program. Questions? contact paumanackegc@gmail.com

6:30PM MUSIC BINGO

at the museum 3890 Waverly Ave. $25 for 2 bingo cards. Bring your own beverage; no outside food allowed. Seaford Historical Society. For more information, please call Judy Bongiovi, 516-783-8629

FRIDAY, SEPT. 26th

2:00PM-5:00PM ART CRAWL

at Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery, Stony Brook University Campus. Free Event. Stop by any campus-wide art venue on your own schedule! Guided tours offered at specific times at select venues. Participating galleries: Charles B. Wang Center, Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery, Melville Library: Special Collections and Central Reading Room, Simons Center Gallery, Algonquian Library, and Latin American and Caribbean Studies. Visit SBU Art Crawl for details.

7:00PM

IRISH HERITAGE NIGHT

Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum is bringing back its “Cultural Night” programming starting with its popular “Irish Heritage Night.” Visitors are asked

Copiague Memorial Public Library

HOLIDAYS

1st - LABOR DAY

11th - PATRIOT DAY

22nd - FALL BEGINS

- ROSH HASHANAH (Begins at sundown)

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 information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

to please enter the museum by using the entrance through the RJO Building, 99 Old Dock Rd., Kings Park. The performances will be held in the auditorium. There will be light refreshments served in the cafeteria afterwards. Admission to “Irish Heritage Night” is free, but donations are always gladly accepted. The Kings Park Heritage Museum will be open for tours starting at 6:00pm. Come learn about the history of our historic hamlet.

8:00PM-10:00PM MOVIE NIGHT AT HARMONY VINEYARDS

Join us for our Drink in Theatre! Movie starts at sunset, please arrive a bit earlier to get seated and order your wine & food. Visit our website to make your reservation. 21 & over. https://harmonyvineyards. com/. Located at 169 Harbor Road in Saint James. *Weather permitting. *This is an outdoor event. Seating is provided. For more information, please call 631-2919900

SATURDAY, SEPT. 27th

10:00AM-4:00PM

DEER PARK FALL CRAFT FAIR at Deer Park Fire department training grounds, 973 Nicolls Rd. in Deer Park. Deer Park Fall Craft Fair features local craft and gift vendors, food trucks, live entertainment. Find fall, Halloween, and Christmas decor and gifts. For more information, please call JR Nichols 631-885-1267

10:00AM-5:00PM

EISENHOWER PARK CRAFT FAIR

Eisenhower Park Field 8, 8 Park Boulevard in East Meadow. Free Event. Famlily shopping fun and a great way to spend the day! For more information, please call 516442-6000

11:30AM-1:00PM

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP

If you have experienced the loss of a loved one, OLPH Church in Lindenhurst has a support group to help you through your loss. The group starts on Saturdays, September 27-November 22, 2025. The group is a 9 week commitment and registration is required. A donation of $25 is appreciated. If interested, contact Linda Arpino, 631-592-1062 or email Forubabe77@aol.com OLPH Church is located 210 South Wellwood Ave in Lindenhurst.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 28th

8:30AM-1:00PM

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION 2025 HEART WALK at Jones Beach - Field 1, 1800 Ocean Parkway in Wantagh. Free Event. The Heart Walk is a fun, family-friendly event that brings our community together to get active, raise life-saving funds, and support the mission of the American Heart Association. For more information, please call 800242-8721. https://www2.heart.org/ site/TR/HeartWalk/TR/HeartWalk/ FDA-FoundersAffiliate?fr_ id=12094&pg=entry

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Defensive Driving Saturday, September 27 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Save money on your car insurance! A $33.00 fee payable to Diana Wilbur APW (Accident Prevention Workshop) by check, money order or cash is due the day of class. Please arrive early to sign in. Late comers will not be admitted. Please bring a pen and your driver’s license. Registration is required.

Senior Housing Seminar

Monday, September 29 3:00 - 4:00 PM

Join Marilyn Perna from Realty Connect USA for an informative program designed to guide individuals and families through the full range of senior housing options available on Long Island for those 55 and older. This comprehensive session will cover everything from aging in place solutions to active senior lifestyle communities, assisted living and rental options, along with less commonly known alternatives. Registration is required.

Pre-need Information Available WESLEY

Highway

11701 p: 631.842.2788 e: js@slingerhasgill.com • www.slingerhasgill.com

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Dignified Service With Affordability

HOME 545 ALBANY AVENUE AMITYVILLE, NY 11701

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Hundreds Gather To Celebrate The Science Of Spirituality Meditation Center’s 21st Anniversary

On Sunday, August 24, over two hundred people gathered to take part in the 21st Anniversary Celebration and Open House at the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center in Amityville.

The SOS Center has been a cornerstone of peace and spirituality, where people from all backgrounds learn about meditation through workshops, retreats, and meditation sessions. That sense of community and warm fellowship was on full display as attendees from all walks of life and cultural traditions reflected on their shared philosophy of kindness, caring, service, and respect for all. The Science of Spirituality Meditation Center provides

a forum for inner peace, mutual understanding, and collaboration. Holistic wellness programs, including meditation workshops, vegetarian cooking classes, yoga, and more, are offered regularly to the community at no charge.

One of the highlights of the 21st Anniversary celebration was the presentation by Village of Amityville Mayor, the Honorable Michael O’Neill, of a proclamation acknowledging the meditation center’s decades-long dedication to promoting peace and wellbeing in the community. It includes the following:

“...The Village of Amityville does desire

to take note and publicly acknowledge the contribution to the community of the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center.

Science of Spirituality Meditation Center is deserving of such recognition and is honored for the health and wellness it offers to the residents of Amityville through seminars, workshops, and retreats.”

Other distinguished members of the Village of Amityville who were in attendance include Trustee Roger Smith, Trustee Adam Ansanelli, Police Lieutenant Frank Caramanica, as well as Town of Babylon Human Services Commissioner

Traci Fonville, and Town of Babylon Food Pantry representative, Bessie Lowe. The day continued with free mini-meditation sessions, vegetarian cooking demos, yoga classes, and live music. A delicious, complimentary picnic-style lunch was served.

The Science of Spirituality Meditation Center provides a sanctuary for personal growth, spiritual exploration, and community connection. Over the years, the Center has welcomed countless individuals seeking balance and resilience in today’s fast-paced world through meditation, classes, workshops, and outreach initiatives.

For more info, contact Science of Spirituality Meditation Center, 79 County Line Road, Amityville, NY 11701, 631-822-7979, infotristate@sos.org. https://www.sos.org/find-local-programs/

Village of Amityville Mayor Michael O’Neill, SOS Center Director, Davinder S. Rana
From right to left: Rohit Khazanchi, Pamela Bednarik, Usha Hemrajani, Amityville PD Lieutenant Frank Caramanica, Amityville Board Trustee Roger Smith, Village of Amityville Mayor Michael O’Neill, Davinder S. Rana, SOS Center director Amityville Board Trustee Adam Ansanelli, Kenny Kohli

Application Open For Spring 2026 Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse And Caregiver

Now through September 30, applications are being accepted for the spring 2026 semester for the Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship Program. Since 2006, Hope For The Warriors has awarded Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships twice a year. The nationwide program recognizes and rewards post-9/11 spouses and caregivers for their strength, fidelity and resolve despite adversity as they assume critical roles in the financial wellbeing of their families. Scholarships vary from $1,800 to $2,500 and are applied toward higher

education at an accredited U.S. university, college, or trade school. Unique to the program is a scholarship for spouses of the fallen, Restoring Family.

Honorary Scholarship – awarded to those seeking graduate or postgraduate degree.

New Beginnings Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing an associate degree, entry level classes or training.

Restoring Family Scholarship – awarded to spouses of the fallen.

Restoring Hope Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing a master’s or doctorate of social work, psychology counseling, or mental

health counseling-related field.

Restoring Self Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Since the program’s inception, Hope For The Warriors has granted 290 Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships totaling $737,107.

To receive an application to apply for the spring 2026 semester, visit hopeforthewarriors. org and connect to services.

About Hope For The Warriors: Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military community

(including veterans and active-duty service members as well as military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen). At HOPE, our mission is to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment, and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS SERVICE

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Sept. 27th

9 am – 4 pm

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(StatePoint) While most people picture the beloved honey bee when they think about bees, North America actually has 4,000 species of native bees, many of which are busy right now.

“Throughout spring and summer, these insects dutifully pollinate crops and wildflowers, playing a vital role in fostering healthy ecosystems,” says Clay Bolt, manager of Pollinator Conservation and Great Plains communications, World Wildlife Fund.

According to Bolt, native bee species are beautifully varied in their appearance, behaviors, feeding habits and habitats.

They can be striped, metallic, fuzzy, thin and rotund, in a spectrum of colors. The world’s smallest species—the Euphorb mini-fairy bee— is only found in southern deserts. At 2 millimeters, it is about as long as a U.S. nickel is thick.

Different bee species fly at different times—early

4,000 Reasons To Love Bees

morning, daytime or night. Many emerge seasonally in spring or summer, while others remain hidden underground for years awaiting summer monsoons. Bees inhabit diverse environments, from cold mountain peaks to beaches. Generalist species visit many flower types, while specialists pollinate only specific flowers. And unlike bumble bees and other hive-dwelling bee species, such as honey bees and stingless bees, over 70% of the world’s bee species are in fact solitary, hardworking moms who quietly nest in overlooked places like decomposing logs and alongside garden paths.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “what is a bee?” you might be surprised to learn that they are vegetarian wasps. However, unlike their wasp relatives, which often feed their young protein in the form of paralyzed insects and the hamburger they might steal from your picnic

table, most bees provide their offspring with protein made from pollen mixed with nectar. The mother bee compacts these materials into a pellet and places it within her nest cavity, lays a single egg atop the mixture, then seals the chamber where the young bee will develop entirely without maternal assistance.

How can you help bees?

Sadly, bees face threats to their survival, but there are steps you can take to help protect them.

Bees need healthy, pesticide-free foods throughout their lives. This is one of the greatest gifts you can offer these pollinators, especially because parks and gardens often grow flowers that only bloom during peak summer. By planting a variety of plants that flower from early spring through autumn, the number of native bees and other pollinators visiting your garden will increase exponentially.

“Through small acts of kindness, you can transform the lives of these remarkable creatures, while filling your heart with profound hope and wonder as you witness their delicate yet ongoing care of our shared world,” says Bolt.

The recently celebrated World Bee Day also kicked

off World Wildlife Fund’s new “Stories of Hope and Wonder,” an ongoing series that connects people to the wonder of nature and offers hope for a future benefiting both people and wildlife.

Each month, “Stories of Hope and Wonder” will feature a different species overcoming some of nature’s toughest obstacles

to ensure its survival. To access these stories, visit www.worldwildlife.org/ hopeandwonder.

Bees are industrious creatures that are essential to vital food systems and healthy ecosystems. While bees are at risk, individuals can make all the difference in their own backyards.

October is almost here, and I’m ready to enjoy everything that makes fall on Long Island so special. Here’s my personal checklist for the season.

• Comfortable Sweaters and Knit Hats – To keep me warm on the days I walk to my office on Montauk Highway.

• Fall Decorations – Pumpkins, pinecones, and all my favorite Halloween items.

• Apple Cider & Cinnamon Donuts – because fall tastes as good as it looks.

• Morning Trips to My Gym – Because of the cider and donuts.

• A Weekend Trip to a farm stand – to pick pumpkins and mums for my porch.

• Helping Home Buyers and Sellers - Just as the seasons change, sometimes our homes do too.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply curious about your home options, give me a call or stop by my office. I’m happy to help you

anyway I can.

What’s your checklist for October?

Licensed Real Estate Broker

203 E. Montauk Hwy.

Lindenhurst, NY 11757

Office: 631-539-6000 Cell: 516-429-1911 joann@joanncillarealestate.com www.joanncillarealestate.com

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