April 2, 2025 West Islip

Page 1


South Bay's Neighbor

Legislator Steven J. Flotteron recognized Lisa Pace as Suffolk County’s 2025 Woman of Distinction Award nominee for the 11th Legislative District. Ms. Pace and her family have been long-time members of the community. She lives, works, and volunteers in Suffolk County, where she continually breaks new ground through her unwavering commitment to the community.

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

Sales Valid Weds., Apr. 2nd - Apr. 8th

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl

• Homemade Apple Pie (10 inch)

• Imported Italian Colomba

FIRST COURSE (Choose one half tray)

• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

• Traditional Baked Ziti

• Penne alla Vodka

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• Manicotti

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

• Stuffed Shells

FIRST COURSE (Choose one half tray)

• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna

• Traditional Baked Ziti

• Penne alla Vodka

• Manicotti

• Stuffed Shells

LARGE GATHERING SMALL GATHERING

MAIN COURSE (Choose one)

• All Natural Hormone Free Stuffed Pork Roast

SERVES AVERAGE OF 10 PEOPLE +TAX $24999

• USDA Prime Stuffed Flank Steak Roast

• Boar’s Head Brown Sugar, Sweet Sliced Holiday Ham

VEGETABLE (Choose two quarter trays)

• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• String Bean Casserole

• String Bean Almondine

MAIN COURSE (Choose one)

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

• All Natural Hormone Free Stuffed Pork Roast

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• USDA Prime Stuffed Flank Steak Roast

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

SALAD (Choose one)

• Boar’s Head Brown Sugar, Sweet Sliced Holiday Ham *4-5lb. avg. All meat comes raw, must be cooked.

• Crispy Green Garden Salad

• Traditional Caesar Salad

• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Candied Sweet Potatoes

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl

• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna

• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Berries

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl

• Imported Italian Colomba

• Fresh Baked Italian Cookie Tray (2 lbs.)

*4-5lb. avg. All meat comes raw, must be cooked.

• Homemade Apple Pie (10 inch)

• Imported Italian Colomba

• Traditional Baked Ziti

ORDERS MUST BE PLACED BY APRIL 16TH FOR PICKUP ON APRIL 19TH. All orders are picked up cold; heating instructions can be found on our website. Closed Easter Sunday, April 20th.

SALAD (Choose one)

• Crispy Green Garden Salad

• Traditional Caesar Salad

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

VEGETABLE (Choose two quarter trays)

• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• String Bean Casserole

• String Bean Almondine

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

SERVES AVERAGE OF 20 PEOPLE +TAX $42999

• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Candied Sweet Potatoes

• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Berries

FIRST COURSE (Choose one full tray)

MAIN COURSE (Choose one)

• American Spring Leg of Lamb

• Black Angus Filet Mignon Roast

• All Natural Hormone Free Stuffed Pork Roast

• Boar’s Head Brown Sugar, Sweet Sliced Holiday Ham

*8-10lb. avg. All meat comes raw, must be cooked.

• Penne alla Vodka

FIRST COURSE (Choose one full tray)

• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna

• Manicotti

• Stuffed Shells

• Penne alla Vodka

• Traditional Baked Ziti

• Manicotti

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Stuffed Shells

• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl

• Fresh Baked Italian Cookie Tray (2 lbs.)

• Imported Italian Colomba

MAIN COURSE (Choose one)

• American Spring Leg of Lamb

• Black Angus Filet Mignon Roast

• All Natural Hormone Free Stuffed Pork Roast

• Boar’s Head Brown Sugar, Sweet Sliced Holiday Ham

*8-10lb. avg. All meat comes raw, must be cooked.

VEGETABLE (Choose two half trays)

• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• String Bean Casserole

• String Bean Almondine

• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Candied Sweet Potatoes

VEGETABLE (Choose two half trays)

• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• String Bean Casserole

TRIMMED & TIED TO ORDER WHOLE PIECE ) (

• String Bean Almondine

• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Candied Sweet Potatoes

BEER - SODA - LOTTO

Assemblyman Durso Announces Annual Pet Food Drive

New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park), in coordination with Long Island Cares, is inviting the community to participate in his annual Pet Food Drive to help families keep their pets out of shelters and remain at home where they belong.

Assemblyman

Durso is asking residents, community organizations and pet lovers to kindly donate unopened bags of dog and cat food, canned pet food and pet supplies. All items collected will be donated to Baxter’s Pet Pantry, operated by Long Island Cares, which provides free pet food and pet supplies to pet-owning families in

need throughout Long Island.

Donations can be dropped off through April 4, 2025 at Assemblyman Durso’s district office located at 512 Park Boulevard in Massapequa Park or at various other locations throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

For more information, call Durso’s district

office at 516-541-4598.

Donations are being accepted at the following locations: Assemblyman Durso’s District Office: 512 Park Boulevard, Massapequa Park, NY Petco 5500 Sunrise Hwy, Massapequa, NY

Babylon Public Library 24 S Carll Ave, Babylon, NY

North Babylon Public Library 815 Deer Park

Ave, North Babylon, NY

West Babylon Public Library 211 NY-109, West Babylon, NY West Islip Public Library 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip, NY

Participating Schools (only accepting student donations): Massapequa High School, Massapequa Bayview Elementary School, West Islip

Manetuck Elementary School, West Islip

Oquenock Elementary School, West Islip Beach Street Middle School, West Islip Udall Road Middle School, West Islip West Islip High School, West Islip

Paul J Bellow Elementary School, West Islip

EASTER SPECIALTIES

Tips To Overcome Seasonal Allergies

Spring and summer are typically welcomed with open arms. Warm weather, blooming flowers and trees full of leaves are a welcome sight for many, but seasonal allergy sufferers may find the transition from winter to spring a little more challenging.

The Center for Health Statistics found that just

under 26 percent of adults and roughly 19 percent of children have a seasonal allergy. Treatments for seasonal allergies can be effective, and many people find over-the-counter medications are enough to alleviate their symptoms. But even people who take OTC medications daily may have days when

seasonal allergies cause considerable discomfort. In such situations, allergy sufferers can consider these strategies.

• Identify your triggers.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology notes that pollen is the most common outside allergy trigger. Trees and grasses typically pollinate in spring and summer, which is why these seasons can be especially challenging for people with seasonal allergies. Dustmites and pets might trigger allergies indoors, but these can appear throughout the year. A visit to an allergist can determine what exactly triggers seasonal allergies. For example, certain types of grasses and trees might be triggers for some but

Continued On 7

Second grade students in Mrs. Burkart and Mrs. Novak’s class at Bayview Elementary School in the West Islip Union Free School District are working with Mrs.

on a Canva portfolio. Each week, Mrs. Crouch pushes in to class, and the students add a slide about an activity they did in school. They will have two to three slides for each month of the school year. So far, they have learned about fonts, clip art, animations, backgrounds, video features and more. The second graders are excited to share their portfolios at the end of the year. Photo courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District

Crouch

not others. Identifying triggers is an effective first step because it can compel people to avoid the things that cause allergic reactions.

Tips To Overcome Seasonal Allergies

• Stay indoors on dry, windy days. The Mayo Clinic advises seasonal allergy sufferers to stay indoors on dry, windy days, when pollen can be nearly impossible to avoid.

• Take advantage of a good rain. The Mayo Clinic advises that the best time for seasonal allergy sufferers to be outside is after a good rain. Rain helps to clear pollen from the air, so post-rain conditions can be ideal for people with seasonal allergies.

• Change your clothes and wash up upon coming inside. The ACAAI recommends changing clothes, washing them and taking a shower upon coming inside during allergy season. Washing clothes

and taking a shower reduces the likelihood that you’ll spread pollen around the interior of your home, where it can attach to furniture and trigger allergic reactions.

• Monitor the pollen count. As noted, pollen is a seasonal allergy trigger, so allergy sufferers are urged to monitor the pollen count via a website such as Pollen.com, where visitors can type in their ZIP code and get an up-to-date allergy report. On days

when the pollen count is high, stay indoors and keep windows closed so the pollen does not get inside. The Mayo Clinic notes that pollen counts tend to be highest in morning, so it’s best to avoid being outside

during this time of day. Seasonal allergies can make spring and summer more challenging. A few simple strategies can help people control their seasonal allergies even on days when pollen counts are particularly high.

APRIL HAPPENINGS

FRI., APRIL 4th

7:00PM

DAVE PETTIGREW

LIVE IN CONCERT

This is a benefit show to bring awareness to liver disease and living donors. An offering will be taken. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690

SAT., APRIL 5th

10:00AM-1:00PM

BOOK SALE

Friends of the Lindenhurst Memorial Library Book Sale. The Friends of the Lindenhurst Memorial Library will sponsor a Book Sale. The hours of the Book Sale will be 10:00am - 1:00pm, with a preview for current Friends of the Lindenhurst Library from 9:00am - 10:00am. Anyone may sign up for membership at the Sale. Applications are also available in The Wave library newsletter. The address is One Lee Avenue in Lindenhurst.

10:00AM-4:00PM FUNDRAISER

AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary #18, located at 141 Carleton Avenue, East Islip, is having a Craft and Vendor Sale as a FUND RAISER to support our many projects... come on down and bring a friend, browse our table find Easter and/ or Mother's Day gifts.Inside Event Admission: For more information, please call Gloria Morck, 631-277-9842 or 516.885.1410

HOLIDAYS

12th - PASSOVER BEGINS

15th - TAXES DUE

20th - EASTER

22nd - EARTH DAY

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 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

TUES., APRIL 8th

2:30PM-4:45PM HELPING HANDS EASTER GIFT DRIVE

944 W. Baydrive, W. Islip BBEA, (Babylon Beach Estate Association) Contact info: https://www.facebook.com/ share/1FSMFWJDCp/ or jennifergallozzi@gmail.com

7:00PM

REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING

7150 Republic Airport, Room 201 in Farmingdale. For more information, please call 631-7527707 x6109 or email: contactus@ republicairport.net

THURS., APRIL 10th

7:00PM THE HISTORY OF MASSAPEQUA

On Thursday April 10, at 7PM, at the museum, the Historical Society will host Mr. Bill Colfer who will talk about the history of Massapequa with focus on their historical complex at the Old Grace Church. The presentation is free to members, others $5. Refreshments will be served. Raffles and 50/50 will be held. Seaford merchandise will be available for sale. For more information, please call Judy Bongiovi at 516-783-8629

SAT., APRIL 12th

11:00AM-3:00PM

FUNDRAISER

The Giovanni Caboto Lodge is holding a Brunch Fundraiser, along with a Comedian/Psychic Medium, at the Seaford American

Legion, 2301 Penatiquit Avenue, Seaford, includes open bar, dessert and coffee. Please contact Rosemarie DiChiara at 516-4580097 for a reservation or any questions.

THURS., APRIL 17th

7:00PM

VOICES AT THE TABLE

Farmingdale United Methodist Church Presents "Voices At The Table", 407 Main Street, invites the community to a live retelling of the story of the Last Supper on Maundy. For information please contact the church at office@ farmingdaleumc.org or call 516 694-3424

SAT., APRIL 19th

10:00AM-2:00PM FOOD DRIVE

N. Babylon Lions Club Food Drive at ShopRite 1960 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please contact donnaquarant@gmail.com

11:00AM-2:00PM PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Costello's Ace Hardware of Farmingdale presents photos with the Easter Bunny. Free for everyone! The Easter Bunny will take pictures with your family, kids, and pets on Saturday, April 19th. Make sure to bring your camera. 242 Broadhollow Road in Farmingdale. For more information, please call 631-694-1100

West Islip’s Middle Schools Join Together For Literacy Initiative

West Islip Union Free School District’s two middle schools – Beach Street and Udall Road – are coming together to celebrate their love of literacy with the “One Book, One School” initiative. Students and staff from both schools will read this year’s selection, “Booked” by Kwame Alexander. The book centers around a talented soccer player navigating the ups and downs of middle school life.

The collaborative program kicked off on March 10 and runs through April 11. Each Monday, students read together during the advisory period. “The One Book, One School initiative really encourages reading and building a community around the love of a good book,” said Denise Lamattina, library media specialist at Udall Road and Beach Street middle schools.

The project also helps to build a connection across all content areas. Each week, classes have a lesson associated with the book in science, art, social studies and English language arts classes. Throughout the month, there are also contests for students to participate in. When a student completes an activity, they will receive a ticket to be entered into one of many raffles for a chance to win a prize.

LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP

PUBLISHER

Jeff Lambert

ASSISTANT

Joe Lambert

Ethan Keattikul PRODUCTION

Kim Volz

Diana Lambert ADMINISTRATION

Josh Marlowe

Teri Tinkler MANAGING

Felicia Edwards

Noelle

Bonnie Schifano

Lucille Moran

Terry Rydyzynski

Noelle Lambert

Victoria Kokolakis

Stephan Schulze

Kerry Mastrobuoni

West Islip Union Free School District’s two middle schools – Beach Street and Udall Road – are joining together for the “One Book, One School” program this month. Photo courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District

• Wide Selection Of Trusted Brands Offering Options For

• Expansive Showroom To See And Select Materials For Your Upcoming Project

• In-House Designer Available To Assist With Material Selection And Provide 3d Renderings

• Dedicated Project Manager Assigned To Oversee Each Renovation From Start To Finish

Connecting Our Community

VOTING TO ADOPT THE LIBRARY’S 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET AND TO ELECT ONE TRUSTEE TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025 • 10AM-9PM

Registration not required for these programs unless noted

ALL-BY-MYSELF STORYTIME AGES 3-PREK WITHOUT AN ADULT THURSDAYS, APRIL 3, 10 & 24 • 1:30PM

Preschoolers can practice their independence in this on-my-own storytime with Miss Kerri.

PAJAMA STORYTIME AGES 2-PREK

THURSDAY, APRIL 10 • 6:30PM

Wrap up your busy day with a very quiet, calm, sedate storytime. Well, maybe not with Miss Carol, but at least she will try to wear the kids out before bedtime!

TWIST & SHOUT STORYTIME AGES 2-PREK TUESDAYS, APRIL 15 & 29 • 9:45 OR 10:30AM

Join Miss Kerri every other Tuesday for a high-energy morning of stories, songs, rhymes and more.

TWEENS YOGA GRADES 4-6

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23 • 7PM

Strengthen your body, calm your mind, boost your self-esteem, improve your focus and enjoy spending time with friends. Registration required.

LIBRARY PLAYDATE AGES 18 MOS -AGE 4

MONDAY, APRIL 28 • 10:30AM

Stay for the duration or just stop by for this open-playtime in the Children’s Activity Room.

DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS

TUESDAYS, APRIL 15 AND 22 • 5:30–8:30PM

Play history's most famous (and fun) tabletop RPG. Beginners welcome! Attendance at both sessions is suggested but not mandatory. WI teen residents only.

DIY POETRY JOURNAL

MONDAY, APRIL 21 • 4–5PM

Come personalize and decorate your own poetry journal in honor of National Poetry Month! WI teen residents only.

RELAXED RIBBON BRAID

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23 • 6PM

Follow along as Alicia shows you step by step how to elevate your braids with this unique style that gets tied together and finished off with a pretty bow! Make sure you have your ribbon ready! No registration required.

CUBAN GIANTS: FIRST BLACK NATIONAL BASEBALL TEAM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9 • 7–8PM

Learn how the Village of Babylon witnessed firsthand the birth of racially segregated baseball teams with presenter Christopher Vega. The Cuban Giants, the first established Negro League, produced players such as Solomon “Sol” White and using his notoriety, Sol went on to desegregate the minor leagues.

SCANDALS IN THE ART WORLD

THURSDAY, APRIL 17 • 7–8PM

From stolen masterpieces to artwork that shocked the world, artist Chris Vivas will discuss major events in the history of art that range from theft to murder.

SWOON AND SPOON SOCIETY

THURSDAY, APRIL 17 • 7–8PM

Mack’s Babylon: 94 E. Main Street, Babylon

Meet Librarian Michaela to chat about this romantasy novel The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Book copies will be available at the Circulation Desk upon registration.

GENTLE YOGA

MONDAY, APRIL 21 • 7-8PM

Promote wellness through gentle yoga posture, breath practice, and a close meditation. Have a blanket or mat and a pillow if you require support for your knees or back.

MOVIES AT THE LIBRARY: BLACK ORPHEUS (1959, in Portuguese)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23 • 6:30–8PM

Starring: Breno Mello, Marpessa Dawn Young lovers Orfeu and Eurydice run through the favelas of Rio during Carnaval, on the lam from a hitman dressed like Death and Orfeu's vengeful fiancée Mira and passing between moments of fantasy and stark reality.

ORGANIZING YOUR DIGITAL PHOTOS ON YOUR MICROSOFT COMPUTER

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 • 10AM–12PM

In this hands-on class, you will learn how to move your digital pictures from your camera to your Windows computer You will also learn how to save and organize your pictures in folders You do not need to bring a camera to class Basic computer skills are required

ALL ABOUT FITNESS APPS

Wednesday, April 30 • 7–8PM

We will be discussing different apps and websites that you can use to help you with your health and fitness aspirations.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Donate nonperishable unexpired food all month long Items will be sorted into tote bags decorated by our teens and given to Westminster United Presbyterian Church

SOCIAL WORK INTERN ASSISTANCE

Receive one-on-one help from our Social Work Intern, who can connect you with social services, mental health resources, and other support options To learn more, contact the Adult Department

SPINNING SILVER BY NAOMI NOVIK

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30 • 7–8PM

Discuss this reimaging of the Rumpelstiltskin tale Deciding to collect on the outstanding debts owed her family of moneylenders, a young woman is overheard boasting about being able to turn silver into gold by the creatures who haunt the wood Coffee, tea and snacks will be served Visit the Circulation Desk for a copy of the book

VINYL FENCE

Spring Egg Hunt At Belmont Lake State Park

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to announce the 2025 Spring Egg Hunt at Belmont Lake State Park in North Babylon. This event, happening

on Saturday, April 12, from 12pm to 2pm, features an egg hunt for children up to nine years old, photos with the Spring Bunny, a princess meet and greet, pony rides, a petting zoo, children’s games, and

family entertainment.

Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. A rain date for the event is scheduled for Sunday, April 13, 12pm to 2pm. An $8 parking fee will be in effect for the event date and rain date.

The 2025 Spring Egg Hunt is made possible by Natural Heritage Trust, a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation supporting the New York State Parks, as well as corporate sponsors such as Cox Media Group Long Island, New York Life, Renewal by Andersen, and Zwanger Pesiri Radiology.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually.

20 Real-World Experience For West Islip’s FBLA Club

West Islip High School Future Business Leaders of America Club participated in a hands-on learning experience during a field trip to Boss Facilities on March 21. This trip provided students with a unique opportunity to explore

the inner workings of a real-world business while engaging with professionals in various departments.

During their visit, FBLA students were given an indepth tour of Boss Facilities and had the chance to hear from company experts about

the day-to-day operations that keep the business running smoothly. From marketing and management to logistics and customer service, members gained invaluable insights into how businesses operate on a large scale.

West Islip High School Future Business Leaders of America Club participated in a hands-on learning experience during a field trip to Boss Facilities on March 21.

The day was not only informative but also fun and interactive. Students participated in a creative marketing challenge where they worked in teams to develop innovative strategies. With prizes awarded to the best ideas,

the challenge sparked their entrepreneurial spirit and allowed them to apply classroom learning to a professional setting.

“We are incredibly grateful to Boss Facilities for taking the time to host our FBLA club and provide

such a comprehensive and engaging experience,” said Meghan Linderman, FBLA advisor. “This field trip allowed our students to gain valuable business knowledge that will serve them in their academic and professional futures.”

Did

You Know?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that pollen season is getting longer and increasing in intensity. Shifts in precipitation patterns, more frost-free days, warmer seasonal air temperatures, and greater amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, each of which are side effects of climate change, have led to higher concentrations of pollen in the air and longer pollen seasons. Data from the USA National Phenology Network, which provides data on the timing of seasonal events in plants and animals to ensure the well-being of humans, ecosystems and natural resources, indicates total pollen counts increased by as much as 21 percent between 1990 and 2018. Such data may come as no surprise to people with asthma and seasonal allergies who have noticed the side effects of such conditions tend to start earlier than in the past and extend for longer periods of time than in previous years.

Planting Pointers Spring

Many people view spring as a season of rejuvenation. That renewal may be somewhat metaphorical for human beings, but it’s literal for lawns and gardens that begin to grow anew as temperatures rise and hours of daylight increase in spring.

Each spring presents an opportunity for homeowners to get back outside and tend to their gardens. As the temperatures rise, homeowners can consider these spring planning pointers to ensure their landscapes look lush and full in the months ahead.

• Start with the soil. Soil can serve as the starting point each spring. Winter can take its toll on a garden and even overwhelm the area with debris over the colder months. Clear rocks and other debris from the area before loosening the soil. The Farmer’s Almanac recommends loosening

soil to a depth of at least eight inches if planting a new garden. An existing garden may only need to be loosened to a depth of around six inches, after which homeowners can mix compost into the soil in early spring. Compost is organic matter that provides nutrients and helps to build strong plant roots.

• Consider a raised garden in colder climates. The Farmer’s Almanac notes raised gardens can help homeowners in colder climates dry out and warm up wet, cold soils more quickly. Homeowners in such regions also can cover their beds with black plastic or cardboard prior to planting. Doing so can protect the beds from lateseason snow and spring rains and also helps to overcome erosion.

• Take soil temperatures. Unpredictable weather

Bethpage Is Now Fourleaf Federal Credit Union

Marking the next chapter in its 83-year history, Bethpage Federal Credit Union is now officially FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. New signs and branding were unveiled today at FourLeaf’s headquarters and all of its branches across Long Island, Queens and New Jersey.

The name change, which is part of a strategic rebranding initiative, comes at a time when the credit union, the largest in the Northeast region, is expanding its presence to even more communities in New York and the Tri-State area. The new name, FourLeaf, represents the credit union’s commitment to community, prosperity, innovation and purpose, while a new logo – two intertwined infinity symbols – signals infinite possibilities for its members and the communities it serves.

member offerings and are thrilled about what the future holds.”

All membership information remains the same and members will, of course, continue to see their favorite branch staff as well.

FourLeaf remains committed to making a positive impact on the communities it serves through grants, partnerships, and community programs. This includes the annual Air Show at Jones Beach – continuing as normal as the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach – the Turkey Drive benefiting Island Harvest, Voluntary Income Tax Assistance, the Northwell Health Walk, and many other initiatives.

is among the noticeable effects of climate change in recent years. That lack of predictability can make spring planting a little more tricky than it once was. Experts note that soil temperatures around 50 F are best for cool-season crops, while soil should be 60 F or warmer when planting warm-weather plants such as tomatoes.

• Work with a garden center to identify what to plant. The right plants for one region may not be ideal for another, so homeowners are urged to work with a local landscaper or garden center before planting. Such a consultation can be especially useful for homeowners planting a new garden. Landscapers and garden center professionals will know which plants work in the local climate.

• Consider planting vegetables in the spring.

“FourLeaf members will continue to receive the same great service they know and expect, with easy and convenient banking options to meet all of their financial goals and needs,” said Linda Armyn, President and CEO. “We plan to continuously enhance our

In addition, the Money Like a Woman movement, launched in 2024, will continue to grow under FourLeaf this year, with several new programs inspired by women and designed to benefit everyone. For the latest updates and announcements, visit FourLeafFCU.com/women.

For more information about FourLeaf, visit FourLeafFCU.com.

Various garden experts note that spring is an ideal time to plant a vegetable garden. If planted at the right time, a vegetable garden can save homeowners money on their grocery bills and provide a season’s worth

of fresh veggies. Lettuce and spinach are sun- and shade-friendly vegetables, which can make them good options for a spring garden. Cool-season root vegetables, which include beets, carrots and swiss chard, are some other

notable veggies that can thrive in early spring. Spring is a season of rejuvenation for gardens. That’s even more true when homeowners consider some conventional planting wisdom in early spring.

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Reducing Your Risk Of RSV: What You Need To Know

As cold and flu season sets in, a seemingly simple cold could signal a more serious concern for some people—but there’s good news, too.

The Risk of RSV Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that mimics cold-like symptoms. While many people recover quickly, RSV can cause severe illness, hospitalization, and even death in certain

groups, particularly older adults. The virus spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact.

However, there’s a way to protect yourself: vaccination. Last year, RSV vaccines reduced the risk of hospitalization or emergency visits by 75%, making them a powerful tool in preventing severe outcomes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC) recommends RSV vaccination for:

• Everyone 75 years and older

• Adults aged 60–74 at higher risk due to chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, severe obesity, or diabetes, as well as those living in nursing homes. Unfortunately, chronic conditions are widespread in older populations. Public health experts encourage

you to discuss your RSV risk with your healthcare provider. Nearly 95% of adults aged 60 and older have at least one chronic health issue, and almost 80% have two or more, so talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about whether you have eligible risk conditions.

Taking Action Champions for Vaccine Education, Equity, and

Progress (CVEEP), a trusted source of information that advocates for access to recommended vaccines, emphasizes the importance of vaccination for those most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, especially in underserved communities.

RSV vaccines can be given alongside other vaccinations, and they’re free for most people. Both private and public

insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover RSV vaccines. Adults who are eligible can get vaccinated against RSV at any time of year.

Find a Vaccine

To locate an RSV vaccine near you and learn more about RSV protection options, visit www.vaccines. gov or www.CVEEP.org/ RSVReady.

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Recipe Of The Week: Beetroot Soup With Mixed Seeds

Certainfoods tend to hit the spot a little more convincingly during particular times of year. For instance, it’s hard to resist a hearty comfort food when the weather outside is cold and the winter winds are howling. Come springtime, lighter fare regains its place in the spotlight. As spring blooms return, foodies looking for something that won’t bust their belts can try this recipe for “Beetroot Soup with Mixed Seeds” courtesy of Lines+Angles.

Makes 4 servings

For the soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion

1 finely chopped garlic clove

3 chopped celeries

1 teaspoon dried marjoram

1/2 teaspoon dried dill

5 cups vegetable stock, plus extra as needed

1 1/4 lb. pickled beets, cubed, juice reserved

Directions:

2 tablespoons plain yogurt

Salt

Freshly ground black peppercorns

To serve:

4 tablespoons plain yogurt

2 tablespoons chopped pistachio nuts, shelled

2 tablespoons black chia seeds

2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

2 tablespoons golden linseeds or linseeds

1 handful mint leaves

1. For the soup: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan set over medium heat until hot.

2. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and a generous pinch of salt, cooking for 6 to 7 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the dried herbs and vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer before stirring in the beets.

4. Simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes until the beetroot is very tender to the tip of a knife.

5. Purée with an immersion blender, adding in some of the reserved beetroot juice to thin out the consistency to your liking; you can also thin it out with more stock or some water.

6. Return the soup to a simmer and stir in the yogurt and some salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over a very low heat, making sure the soup does not boil.

7. To serve: When ready to serve, ladle into warm bowls and top with some yogurt.

8. Garnish with a scattering of chopped pistachios, mixed seeds and some mint leaves before serving.

Exceptional Agents Breaking New Boundaries

BOETTCHER
SUSAN LOMBARDI Gold Award
ELIZABETH (BETH) LOWE Gold Award
BOND

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