April 9, 2025 Deer Park

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South Bay's Neighbor

We don't do it for the attention. We don't do it for the recognition. We don't do it for the personal gain. And we certainly don't do it for the awards. We do it for you.

Catholic Health is the winner of Press Ganey’s 2025 HRO Foundation Award for exceptional reliability and patient safety.

At Catholic Health, we pursue the very best in health care for one reason only: you. Every single one of you that walks through our doors, every day. So, while we’re honored by this recognition, we also know there’s no finish line in health care. There’s always a new goal just over the horizon, and a new level of excellence for us to achieve for the health of Long Island.

Learn more at DedicatedtoBetter.org

Recipe Of The Week: Perfect Matzah Balls (Kneidlach)

Passoveris a Jewish celebration and one of the religion’s most sacred and widely observed holidays. Passover commemorates the Biblical story of the Israelites’ escape from 400 years of slavery in Egypt. In 2025, Passover takes place at sundown on Saturday, April 12 to Sunday, April 20, 2025. Pesach, as Passover is known in Hebrew, includes all kinds of ceremonial foods. The Passover seder plate showcases specific items that relate to both the suffering and emancipation of the Jewish people. Throughout Passover, the faithful abstain from any leavened bread products. According to Exodus 12:8: “They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted on the fire; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat.” Jews also are to remove all leaven (hametz) from their homes and eat unleavened bread for an additional seven days. Apart from being commanded by God, it is believed unleavened bread became traditional Passover food because the Jewish people departed Egypt in haste without time to let bread rise. Furthermore, some say God also associated leavened bread with sin. If there is one ingredient Passover celebrants may find challenging to work with during the holiday, it could be unleavened bread. Typically matzoh/matzah is substituted for other yeasted breads this time of year. One place matzoh really shines, though, is in matzoh balls for use in soups or side dishes. A dumpling of sorts, matzoh balls are tasty and filling, and ideal for meals throughout Passover. Try this recipe for “Perfect Matzah Balls (Kneidlach)” courtesy of Chabad.org’s Kosher Cooking.

Yields 4 balls per each 1⁄4 cup of matzah meal (Meat, Pareve)

2 eggs, slightly beaten

2 tablespoons oil or chicken fat

Directions:

2 tablespoons soup stock or water

1⁄2 cup matzah meal

1 teaspoon salt

1 quart of salted water or chicken soup, for cooking

Beat eggs slightly with fork. Add other ingredients, except matzah meal, and mix. Add matzah meal gradually until thick. Stir. Refrigerate for 20 minutes in covered bowl.

Wet hands and form into balls. Drop into bubbling chicken soup or into a large wide pot into which 1 quart of water seasoned with 1 tablespoon salt has been added and has come to a boil. Cook for 30 minutes.

EASTER SPECIALTIES

Varsity Badminton Comes To Deer Park High School

It was a long road to fruition, but varsity badminton has finally come to Deer Park High School. A boys team, coached by Keri Zuk, and a girls team, coached by Ashley Maune, began their first ever seasons on March 26.

The concept of the badminton team emerged from the pressure and

demand of the high school student community. One student, Abbas Meersyed, gathered over 200 signatures in a petition to begin a team, and Principal Charlie Cobb and Athletic Director Dominick Fontana held an interest meeting with over 50 students in attendance.

Zuk had been passionate

about starting a varsity badminton program at Deer Park since she began working in the district in 2004, and was prepared when Superintendent James Cummings made the call.

“When Mr. Cummings approached me about starting a team, I was more than ready to offer

my expertise and lend my knowledge as a longtime badminton player and coach,” Zuk said.

Tryouts for the teams began on March 17, with over 60 players wanting to join. After four days of evaluating skills, footwork, fitness, attitude and game strategy, Maune and Zuk accepted 20 players for each team.

“The goal of our program is player development as well as character development,” Zuk said, “We want our student athletes to develop technical skills, fitness, mental toughness and game strategy for singles and doubles. We also want to build a team culture where our players form long lasting relationships and learn valuable life skills that will carry them into adulthood and in their professional lives. We hope our badminton players grow both as athletes and individuals, developing skills and values that will serve them well on and off the court.”

Deer Park High School’s varsity badminton teams began their first season on March 26.

Deer Park BOE Honors Falcon Career Academy Business Partners

Six local businesses partnering with Deer Park High School’s Falcon Career Academy program were honored at the district’s March 25 Board of Education meeting. Greek Krave, Panera Bread, Texas Roadhouse and Tropical Smoothie, all of Deer Park, and Panera Bread and Stew Leonard’s of Farmingdale were all recognized for the impact they have had on the program. Each business was presented with a plaque donated by the district’s Special Education Parent Faculty Club.

“To these businesses, your willingness to provide opportunities, mentorship and support is truly invaluable,” District Administrator of Secondary Special Education David DePrima said. “You have helped us tranform our vision for these students into a tangible reality. Through your collaboration, our

students have gained so much more than just work experience. They have learned the importance of responsibility, communication and perseverance, and valuable skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. Your commitment to helping them grow and thrive is something we will always be grateful for.”

“It’s a special thing for these businesses to open their doors and provide opportunities for our kids,” Superintendent James Cummings said. “It doesn’t go unnoticed and certainly doesn’t go unappreciated.”

Also honored was varsity boys basketball coach John McCaffrey, who nominated three other high school staff members for recognition: social studies teacher Joe Alo and security guard Kelly Boyle, the cocreators of the school’s Student Booster Club, and custodian Ed Phelan, one of the basketball program’s

biggest supporters.

“Deer Park is an amazing

place and it’s because of people like the four of you,” Board President Donna Marie Elliott said. “Thank you for everything you do.”

Suffolk Legislator Donnelly Returns As Guest Reader

Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) went “back to school” in Deer Park on March 6 as a guest reader at May Moore Primary School in conjunction with the READ program at the school.

After being welcomed by school Principal Tammy Alcalde and Assistant Principal Kimberly Essig, Legislator Donnelly had the pleasure of reading to the two second grade classes of Mrs. Royal and Mrs. Grafstein. This year’s theme was “Reading is Sweet” and he shared “Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!” by Mo Williams with both classes, later chatting with them about the lessons of the book and shared a little about his job as a county legislator.

“It was great to return to May Moore for another reading adventure, something I look forward to every year,” said Legislator Donnelly. “The enthusiasm and engagement of the students was outstanding, and I appreciate the school for welcoming me back for this always fun and educational day.”

Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly shares “Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!” by Mo Williams with the students in Mrs. Royal’s second grade class at May Moore Primary School on March 6. He also read to the second grade class of Mrs. Grafstein.

Fourth Graders Demonstrate Staff Appreciation

Fourth graders in Jennifer

class at

a celebration for the school’s

and custodians during lunchtime. The students presented all the cafeteria staff and custodians with thank you cards, the kitchen ladies received bouquets of flowers, and the custodians received a plate of cookies and cakes. The class also made a banner for the staff saying, “Thank you for all you do.” Photo courtesy of Deer Park School District

Local businesses partnering with Deer Park High School’s Falcon Career Academy were honored at the district’s March 25 Board of Education meeting. Photo courtesy of Deer Park School District
Arella’s
Deer Park’s John F. Kennedy Intermediate School recently held
kitchen, staff

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

FIRST COURSE (Choose one half tray)

• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna

• Traditional Baked Ziti

• Penne alla Vodka

• Manicotti

• Stuffed Shells

ORDERS MUST BE PLACED BY APRIL 16TH

VEGETABLE (Choose two quarter trays)

• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• String Bean Casserole

• String Bean Almondine

• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

SALAD (Choose one)

• Crispy Green Garden Salad

• Traditional Caesar Salad

• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Berries

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl

• Homemade Apple Pie (10 inch)

• Imported Italian Colomba

DESSERT (Choose one)

• 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.

• Candied Sweet Potatoes 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

Why Car Washes Are Important

Taking care of a vehicle involves more than just maintaining the equipment under the hood. Car washes keep a vehicle shiny and clean, which can help it look good while sitting in the driveway or cruising the highway. However, regular car washes are more than cosmetic.

• Protection from the sun: A car that is routinely and properly washed and waxed is less vulnerable to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

• Extend the life of paint: Dirt and debris can build up on the paint surface and eventually lead to scratches and other damage. Bird droppings and sap can be corrosive. Washing will help remove grime and protect the paint in the process.

• Preserve the vehicle’s value: Drivers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicles in the future should realize that a wellmaintained car can bring in as much as 20 percent more for above-average condition, according to Kelley Blue Book. Maintaining a clean and shiny vehicle can protect its long-term value.

• Remove salt: Drivers who live near the ocean or in areas where roads are salted in the winter to melt snow may have cars with high salt corrosion rates. Unless it’s washed off frequently, salt can take its toll, leading to damage.

• Improve fuel efficiency: Drivers have felt pain in their wallets at the fuel pump in recent years. Dirty cars may be less aerodynamic and less fuel-efficient as a result. Keeping a car clean may improve its fuel efficiency.

• Maintain the interior: Car washes are not only about the exterior. Keeping a clean and tidy interior can help improve the air quality inside of the vehicle and prolong the life of upholstery, mats and interior components.

Deer Park’s Gardner And Rotzman Win Suffolk Zone Awards

Deer Park High School seniors Dimaunt’e Gardner and Kelsey Rotzman were recently chosen as the winners of the 2025 Suffolk Zone Awards. The Suffolk Zone Chapter of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance annually gives awards to one male and

one female student in each Suffolk high school, selected for excellent achievement in physical education, outstanding character and leadership in schoolwide activities.

Gardner, a small forward on the school’s league champion varsity boys basketball team, was named to Newsday’s Top

100 Long Island boys basketball players for 2024-2025, and earned the Principal’s Award at the spring 2024 Breakfast of Champions.

Rotzman, a key member of Deer Park’s varsity cheerleading team, was recently named an AP Scholar.

Deer Park High School seniors Dimaunt’e Gardner and Kelsey Rotzman were recently chosen as the winners of the 2025 Suffolk Zone Awards. Photo courtesy of Deer Park School District

Students Rock Their Socks For Down Syndrome Awareness

Installation Of Lodge Officers Ceremony

held their Installation of Lodge Officers

on March 18,

The Lodge installed Officers for the 2025-

2027 term including New President, Cathy Lamberti. The Ceremony honored Outgoing Lodge President Sabrina Savino for her

efforts during her fouryear Presidency and was attended by several Elected Officials, Community Leaders, OSDIA National

and State Officers, Lodge Presidents, members and guests. The Lodge encourages those of Italian American descent to consider Membership; contact Lucille at 631 987-9728.

The Constantino Brumidi Lodge #2211 of Deer Park from the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America (OSDIA)
Ceremony
2025.
Students and staff at Deer Park’s May Moore Primary School rocked their colorful socks on March 21 for World Down Syndrome Day. Photo courtesy of Deer Park School District

APRIL HAPPENINGS

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

THROUGH APRIL 12th

DURING REGULAR LIBRARY HOURS

PROM BOUTIQUE DONATION DRIVE

The Copiague Library is collecting new and gently used formal wear, shoes, bags, and jewelry for Copiague teens. Drop off items any time during regular library hours. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague. For more information, please call 631-691-1111

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 516-458-0097 for a reservation or any questions.

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

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

THURS., APRIL 24th

1:45PM–7:30PM BLOOD DRIVE

Levittown Fire Department with Senator Steve Rhoads 120 Gardiners Avenue, Levittown Follow the link to schedule an appointment: https://Donate. nybc.org/Donor/Schedules/ Drive_schedule/323184 or call 1-800

Home Sweet Home Starts Here... Now Is

Time To Get You Moving. I Look Forward To Hearing From You!!

933-BLOOD. For more information, or help scheduling an appointment, please contact Ron Hlawaty at ronhlawaty@yahoo.com or Jodie Behrens email resqchick048@gmail. com. Appointments Preferred. WalkIns Welcome!

SAT., APRIL 26th

10:00AM

ANNUAL ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION

The community is invited to the annual Arbor Day Celebration in Amityville at the corner of South Bayview Ave. and Bayview Pl. in Amityville. (south of Merrick Road). Get educational information on tree planting and maintenance and celebrate the day with a tree planting to beautify the open space known as The Mary Carroll Marsden Community Garden.

SUN., APRIL 27th

2:00PM-4:00PM BOOK PRESENTATION

The Historical Society of Islip Hamlet presents Robert Viagas's presentation of his book "Right This Way: A History of the Audience". The program covers a pop history of audiences through the ageseverything from the ancient Greeks, Lincoln's assassination, history of applause (and booing), group reactions at sports events up to and including binge-watching TV - what the audience experience brings us and how it may evolve in the 2020's. To be held at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Ave. Free and open to the public. For more information, please call 631-559-2915, www. isliphamlethistory.org.

“Michelle was amazing. Very responsive. Great experience from start to finish! Michelle explained the process, answered all our questions, coordinated quickly and efficiently the whole process between all parties involved. We recommend Michelle to all our friends on Long Island”.

-Zillow Review From Previous Seller

Birthday-In-A-Box

Program

BIRTHDAY-IN-A-BOX PROGRAM - The Columbiettes from Knights of Columbus #4428 Deer Park, donated over 70 birthday boxes to homeless children and children of domestic violence. The boxes contained party supplies for a birthday party. Donated items included drinks, snacks, decorations, plates, cups, and games. Pictured are Columbiettes: B. Lukenovich, G. Cavanaugh, J. Riccobono, R.Guerin, D. Rodriguez, and Knight R. Zito.

Town Of Babylon Warns Residents About Scammers Posing As Town Employees

The Town of Babylon is reminding residents to be vigilant after reports of scammers posing as town employees to gain access to homes. All official Town of Babylon employees carry government-issued ID badges and will always present them upon request.

Residents should never allow anyone claiming to be a Town worker into their home without first verifying their identity. If there is any doubt, residents can call 311 to confirm whether an individual is a legitimate Town employee.

“We take the safety of our residents very seriously,” said Supervisor Rich Schaffer. “No one should feel pressured to let a stranger into their home. If you have any

concerns, ask for ID and call 311—we are happy to verify any Town employee’s credentials.”

The Town urges

residents to take the following precautions: • Ask to see ID –Continued On 19

South Shore Audubon Society Offers Scholarships

The South Shore Audubon Society is offering two $2,000 college scholarships this year: one funded by Evelyn Bishop and her family, and one funded by Jay Koolpix. Each scholarship will be awarded to a different college junior, senior, or graduate student who is taking courses to prepare

for a degree in an area of biological or environmental science. This includes wildlife management, forestry, animal behavior, ecology, marine biology, oceanography, mammalogy, ornithology or the field of sustainable and renewable energy.

To be eligible for the

Scholarships, applicants must be residents of one of the areas listed at www. ssaudubon.org/areas-weserve.asp and/or attend a college in Nassau or Suffolk County.

Previous winners have used their scholarships to help purchase books, to pay for travel expenses to field sites, for specialized equipment or other educational needs.

Applications are available at the SSAS website, www. ssaudubon.org, or from the emails listed below. Applications are due by April 30, 2025.

They should be emailed to either Betsy Gulotta, betsy.gulotta@ncc.edu, or Betty Borowsky, bborow@ optonline.net. For more information and for assistance with application forms, contact Betsy Gulotta or Betty Borowsky at the email addresses above.

Town Of Babylon Warns Residents About Scammers

Continued From 18

All official Town employees will carry Town-issued identification.

• Verify legitimacy –Call 311 to confirm if someone is a Town employee.

• Report suspicious activity – If someone refuses to show ID or seems suspicious, do not let them in and call local law enforcement immediately. This warning follows a recent incident in which a West Babylon resident was scammed and

burglarized by individuals falsely claiming to be Town workers. The Town of Babylon encourages

residents to stay informed and share this message with friends and neighbors.

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT SECTION

NOTICE-Federal and State

law make it unlawful for employers and employment agencies to advertise prospective employment where the ob is limited as to age, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, genetic disposition or carrier status or marital status unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification (BFOQ). This publication does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SCHOOL SECURITY GUARDS)

F/T (35 Hours/week “District Supports 211 Waiver Process for F/T Staff”) $23.59/hr.

Availability for afternoon/ early evening hours a plus. Must have a minimum of 7 year’s experience in law enforcement/peace officer or 1 yr. experience plus degree in Criminal Justice.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SUBSTITUTE SECURITY GUARDS)

Will support FT/PT guards in the function of their duties. Prior law enforcement experience, training and security guard license required- $21.25/hr.

Qualified candidates should use the QR code to access OLAS application online.

COPIAGUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS www.copiague.k12.ny.us

Equal Opportunity Employer

MAINTENANCE MECHANIC

FULL TIME, 3-5 yrs. electrical experience required, basic carpentry, minor painting/taping, plumbing knowledge a plus.

M-F 7:00 AM-3:30 PM $64K-$66K/year, comprehensive benefit package. Qualified

candidates should use the QR code below to access OLAS application online.

COPIAGUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

www.copiague.k12.ny.us

Equal Opportunity Employer

week Hours of Operation are 8am to 6pm. Day shift is 8am to 1pm and PM Shift is 1pm to 6pm, Monday thru Friday Satu rday 8am to 1pm We are a single docto r practice. Ex perience preferred

Call: (631) 376-1746

Fax resume to: (631) 6613248

Email: RJCorona9 75@yah oo. com

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•FLOORING, •YARDWORK, ETC Free Estimates Reasonab le rates Lic/Ins 56188-H CALL DAVE 631 981 1756

Ki tchen & Baths COMPLETE CARPENTRY SERVI CES & RENO VAT IONS. FROM MINOR REPAIR TO FULL RENOVATIONS. Interior Doors, Sheetrock, Trim, Moulding Plumbing, Electrical BATHROOM RENOVATION SPECIAL $4,995 & up DEMOLITION NEW SHEETROCK PLUMBING TILE FL OORS, TOILET, SINK, FAUCETS,VANITY FR0M DESIGN TO COMPLE TION ACE CONTRACTING (licensed & insured) CALL or TEXT OWNER (631) 432 3892

Landscaping

Spring Clean-ups

Sod, Top Soil , Seed, Mulch, Aeration Spring Flower Bed, Tree, Shrub Plantings / Trimming Full Tree Service Fence Installation & Repair Driveways, Pati os, Pavers, C obblestone Retaining Wa lls Power Washing (Cedar Houses, Siding, Decks, PVC Fences) LG Guevara Landscaping & Tr ee Servic e licensed/insured Call Leno 631 365 5853

JAG MASONRY & LANDS CAPING

Pavers, Patios, Drivew ays, Stoops, Cultured Stone Pool Areas, Etc! Free Estimates. Reasonabl e Prices & Reliable! Lic ensed & Insure d Lic. #59023-H References Avail abl e!

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COMPLETE MASONR Y SERVICES

CA MBRIDG E PATIO 20' X 20' $5900

• CAMBRIDGE PAVERS.

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MASONRY CALL 631 205 4710

Se Necesitan Albaniles Con O Algo De Experiencia. 516 -532- 234 7 Mi scel laneous Services CLASSIFIED ADS! LET US HELP YOU Rent It! Sell It! Buy It! Find A Job! Place Your Ad In Our Classified Sect ion. Deadline Is Every Friday For The Following Wedn esday's Publication Date! 631- 226- 2636 Ext. 276

It's Springtime

Masonr y Masonr y

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