- Thank you to everyone who helped make the Baby Shower for Madonna
night! The event at Red Lobster was filled with fun and the joy of making
Special thanks to the Copiague, Lindenhurst, Farmingdale, Huntington, and Amityville Kiwanis Clubs, the Copiague Library, and the Builders Clubs from Copiague and Maria Regina for participating. It was amazing to see everyone come together! Those interested in making a difference can contact Carol at carollynch5@gmail.com
The Amityville School District is proud to announce that Amityville Memorial High School Assistant Principal Dr. Maria Vineyard was among this year’s distinguished honorees recognized by State Sen. Monica Martinez during her annual Black History Month Celebration held on Feb. 20.
The annual celebration marked 100 years of organized efforts to recognize, study and honor Black history and its enduring influence on American society. The 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” invited the community to reflect on the transformative role Black history has played in shaping the modern world. Each year, the event recognizes individuals from the Fourth Senatorial District whose leadership and service have made a meaningful impact in their communities.
Dr. Vineyard was honored in the field of education for her outstanding leadership, commitment to equity, and dedication to student success. An accomplished educator and school leader, Dr. Vineyard has taught English in grades 8-12 across Hawaii, Texas and New York. She previously served as interim assistant principal and lead teacher, specializing in AP Research and African American literature. In her leadership roles, she strengthened English curricula and expanded
Amityville Memorial High School Assistant Principal Dr. Maria Vineyard, left, was honored by State Senator Monica Martinez during her annual Black History Month Celebration. Photo courtesy of the Amityville Union Free School District
access to culturally relevant texts and instructional practices to better serve all students.
Dr. Vineyard also brought her expertise to higher education, teaching at Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology and serving as an adjunct professor at Molloy University. A passionate advocate for educational equity, she facilitated professional development workshops on Culturally Relevant Pedagogy and Restorative Justice, mentored new educators, and served on doctoral dissertation committees.
A two-time Starmaker Teacher Award recipient, Dr.
Vineyard has contributed scholarly work to “Critical Praxis Leadership: Grassroots Narratives for Justice-Driven Leaders for a Democratic Future.” She earned her Bachelor’s degree in English, a Master’s in English Education, an Advanced Certificate in School Building Leadership, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Molloy University.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Vineyard remains deeply committed to her school and faith communities. She has coordinated Black History Month programs, served on leadership committees, and contributed to her district’s successful exit from receivership in New York State. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, serves on her church’s Chaplains Council, and is a Deaconess in Training and youth choir director.
Dr. Vineyard’s recognition at this year’s celebration highlighted her unwavering dedication to educational excellence and her enduring impact on students and the broader community.
Volunteering is a great way for individuals to strengthen their communities, but it also can be a unique way for individuals to improve their own overall happiness. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies examined 70,000 participants, each of whom received surveys that asked questions regarding their volunteering habits and mental health.The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and gave their overall health higher ratings. The frequency of giving back to one’s community also may affect just how much volunteering affects mental health. Study participants who volunteered at least once per month rated their mental health even higher than those who volunteered but did so infrequently.
VITA Tax Assistance
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provided by Bethpage Federal Credit Union will be conducted virtually for the 2026 tax season. Services will be available to taxpayers who meet the necessary criteria by visiting lovebethpage.com/vita and completing the Bethpage Virtual VITA Application. Space is limited. Appointments run through the first week in April.
AARP Tax Assistance
Tuesdays, through April 7
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
IRS-certified AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the library to assist individuals with low to moderate income in preparing and filing their tax returns. You must pick up a tax information packet at the Information Desk after
making your appointment to see what documents you must bring. For joint returns, both spouses must be present with their own photo ID and Social Security card. Please call for an appointment. Registration is required.
Rethink Your Drink
Tuesday, April 7
6:00 - 7:00 PM
Join SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator Anthony Garcia for an engaging and informative session to explore the hidden sugars and calories in popular beverages. Discover healthier drink options, learn how to read labels, and get practical tips to stay hydrated without the extra sugar. This program will help you rethink what’s in your glass and sip smarter every day! Registration is required.
Mario Kart with a Cop Tuesday, April 7
6:30 - 7:30 PM
Start your engines and join us for a fun-filled gaming event where teens and adults can play Mario Kart alongside local police officers! This friendly competition is a great opportunity to connect, laugh and build positive community relationships in a relaxed setting. Registration is required.
The Heckscher Museum of Art: Building a Collection
Wednesday, April 8
6:30 - 7:30 PM
How do art institutions decide which artworks to acquire, display and preserve for future generations? Join Curatorial Assistant Jessica Rosen for a behind-thescenes look at the collection strategies of The Heckscher Museum of Art. Registration is required.
Long Island Sierra Club: Whales
Thursday, April 9
6:30 - 8:30 PM
Join marine mammal expert Artie Kopelman, President of the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island (CRESLI), for a fascinating journey into the world of whales! In this engaging and informative program, Mr. Kopelman will share his decades of research on whale populations off the coast of Long Island, including captivating stories, stunning photographs, and insights into the behaviors, migrations, and conservation of these magnificent creatures. Registration is required.
Country Line Dancing Session 1
Fridays, April 10, 17, 24 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Session 2
Fridays, May 1, 8, 15 6:30 - 7:30 PM
You may only register for one session.
Back by popular demand, join Natalie Boyle and dust off your boots for some fun country line dancing lessons. Learn fun dances to popular songs all while having a good time. Please
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From The First Color TV’s in the 1960’s To The First Flat Screens In The 1990’s From Cable TV In The 1980’s To The Streaming Services In The 2000’s
From Rotary Phones To Pay Phones To Flip Phones To Smart Phones From FM Radio To Satellite Radio From 8 Track & Cassette To CD’s
MONTH OF APRIL
9:00AM-11:00AM
TUBER SALE
The Long Island Dahlia Society will hold a tuber sale at the Barn at the Bayard Cutting Arboritum during the month of April on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Various types available. Plant sale will start in May. Further information at LongIslandDahlia.org.
SATURDAY, APRIL 4th
3:00PM
CONCERT OF SACRED LENTEN MUSIC
A Journey through Lent featuring Kathryn Wilson, soprano soloist Saturday. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Avenue in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690. A free-will offering will be taken.
SATURDAY, APRIL 4th
10:00AM-4:00PM
SUNDAY, APRIL 5th
9:00AM-2:00PM
EASTER PLANT SALE
The Seaford Fire Department will be hosting its annual Easter Plant Sale, at Seaford Fire Department headquarters on the corner of Waverly & Southard Avenues. A wide variety of plants and flowers will be available for purchase (while supplies last). Come early for the best selection. Rain or shine.
SATURDAY, APRIL 11th
10:00am-1:00pm
FRIENDS OF THE LINDENHURST MEMORIAL LIBRARY
BOOK AND JEWELRY SALE
A preview for current Friends of the Library from 9:00AM-10:00AM. Anyone may sign up for membership at the Sale to take advantage of early access. Located at One Lee Avenue,
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
Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-957-7755
10:00AM-4:00PM
AMVETS LADIES AUXILIARY 18
CRAFT AND VENDOR FAIR
Hosted at AMVETS Post 18, 141 Carleton Avenue in East Islip. Free Admission, raffles, 50/50, Cake sale. For more information, please call 631-277-9842 or 516-885-1410, GCM42@AOL.COM
11:30AM-1:00PM SPRING BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
The Spring Bereavement Support Group will start on Saturday April 11-June 13. Located at 210 South Wellwood Avenue in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631226-7725 x 200
SATURDAY, APRIL 11th
SUNDAY, APRIL 12th
12:00PM-4:00PM ST JAMES MODEL RAILROAD CLUB SPRING OPEN HOUSE
43 years in the making: Once again open to the public. This will be the last show until November. New Drive In Theater, City scene with operating roadway, Freight yard, LIPA Power plant, Working Fire Scene, Two Operating Subways, Lighted vehicles and much more! Train Show is located at 176 Mills Pond Road in St James. For further information call evenings 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732w
TUESDAY, APRIL 14th
7:00PM REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING 7150 Republic Airport, Room 201 in Farmingdale. For information
call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email: contactus@republicairport.net
THURSDAY, APRIL 16th
7:00PM
THE BAY SHORE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING
At the Bay Shore - Brightwaters Public Library, 1 South Country Rd., in Brightwaters. The guest speaker will be Arthur Frischman, Long Island Sign Guy. The meeting is open to the public at no charge. Refreshments will be served. Learn more at: https:// www.bayshorehistoricalsociety.org/ programs-news
SUNDAY, APRIL 19th
10:00AM-4:30PM ALL KIDS FAIR
A full day of amazing exhibitors, activities and classes! At the Hilton Long Island/Huntington (AKA the Huntington Hilton) in Melville! Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Rd, in Melville. Mostly inside but partially outside - including food trucks, petting zoo, and a few other surprises. For more information, visit https://www.allkidsfair.com/
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22nd 7:00PM-9:00PM "THE BATTLE OF LONG ISLAND"
Author Bill Bleyer will discuss "The Battle of Long Island", Long Island's pivotal role in the American Revolution. Learn about the single-day engagement, the British occupation and the resilience of Long Islander's. The program is held at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Ave. in Islip. Free and open to the public. For more information, please call 631-559-2915, www. isliphamlethistory.org
On Tuesday, March 10th, the Suffolk County Legislature gathered to honor local women for the work they do to better our county and community.
Legislator Renna was pleased to recognize Donna Farina, of Copiague, as his 2026 Woman of Distinction
from Legislative District 14!
Donna Farina is a lifelong resident of Copiague whose roots in the community run deep. A top student at Copiague High School, she excelled in shorthand and business studies before continuing her education at Farmingdale State College
in Secretarial Science and Business.
She presently serves as President of the Copiague Chamber of Commerce and has a history in leadership within the Chamber of Commerce. Prior to serving as President, she served the Chamber as
(NAPSI)-A recent online survey by Toluna/ Greenfield Online, Inc. found that while most consumers try to protect their identity, many admitted to risky behavior that could put them at risk for ID theft. To help educate and protect consumers, world-renowned fraud prevention expert Frank Abagnale offers these tips:
• Shop smart: Limit the credit cards you carry.
•Keep receipts and check your statements: Examine every charge on your statement before paying. Your receipts provide a great crossreference check and guard against suspicious activity. You have 30 days from the date of your statement to notify your financial institution of any discrepancies; otherwise, you can be liable for any purchases.
• Protect your computer when online shopping:
Make sure your security patch and anti-virus software are updated regularly. Consider technology to protect against potential viruses.
• Watch where you shop online: Look for the lock icon on the site’s browser status bar, a sign that that site is safe. If you have never heard of a website before, see if it has security precautions in place and isn’t a fake site set up by identity thieves.
•Don’t write checks: Give cash or gift cards. The information on a check—name, signature, address—can be used to steal identity.
•Strengthen passwords: Use passwords with at least eight characters, including a combination of letters, numbers and symbols that are easy for you to remember but difficult for predators to guess.
• Watch your wallet: Be careful at parties,
Director, Secretary, and Vice President, becoming a dynamic force to bring about the betterment of her community through her TEAM concept “Together Everyone Achieves More!”
Donna has accomplished much in her life in the way of service to her community. She leads beautification efforts throughout Copiague; ensuring parks, plazas, and other public spaces reflect the pride of the residents who live there. She ensures American flags are proudly displayed and maintained year-round throughout Copiague as a heartfelt tribute to those who have served. Donna actively supports veterans’ causes and promotes initiatives that
honor their service, such as Veterans Plaza, to exemplify all those who sacrifice for our country. While juggling the Copiague Chamber of Commerce and her professional life, her devotion to her family and community remains constant. Donna married in 1985, raised her two daughters – both Copiague graduates – and is now a proud grandmother of three. Many in town still affectionately call her “Ms. Donna,” a nod to her sixteen years of nurturing young minds at the Our Lady of Assumption Nursery and Pre-K program, where she helped guide generations of local children as they
began life’s journey. Donna also previously worked as a licensed real estate agent with Advantage Plus Reality, where she used her profession as an outlet to build a sense of community and security that made those homes meaningful. Said Legislator Renna: “It is an honor to be able to Recognize Donna Farina for all she does for our 14th Legislative District community! I have seen firsthand her ability to instill the ideals of community pride and service to others throughout every project she takes on, and she is a tremendous asset to all she represents. Congratulations, Donna!”
restaurants, fitness clubs, shopping carts and your car.
• Don’t take the bait on phishing scams: Also, beware of shoulder surfing (when a thief looks over your shoulder while you’re at an ATM, either directly or via a camera).
• Stop mail and newspaper delivery when you’ll be away from home.
• Consider an identity theft protection service: One low-cost solution monitors the online criminal underground where identities are bought and sold and instantly alerts you if your Social Security number or up to 10 credit card or debit card numbers are posted by thieves. The service also scans online directories and search engines, prime sources for spammers and thieves, letting you know where your information is available, and provides advice on how to remove it.
Easter is a day of great joy for faithful Christians. Easter celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is detailed in the New Testament. Easter is what’s known as a moveable feast, which means it’s not celebrated on the same date each year. Easter’s date in 2026 is Sunday, April 5. Easter also is celebrated on a different day within Christian churches. Orthodox Christians do not celebrate Easter on
the same day as nonOrthodox Christians. History.com notes Orthodox Christians follow the Julian calendar when determining when to celebrate Easter.
Orthodox Easter will take place between April 4 and May 8, following the first full moon after Passover. Non-orthodox Christians follow the Gregorian calendar, which was established by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. Under the
Gregorian calendar, churches determined Easter will be held on the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. These disparities are why Orthodox churches, which are primarily located in Russia, Greece, Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria, observe Easter on a later date than non-Orthodox churches. In 2026, Orthodox Christians will celebrate Easter on April 12.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you. Call The Classifi eds 631-226-2636 Pres s 276
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you. CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS! Call toda y! 631-226-2636
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
A shredder truck will be available for use by the community on Saturday, April 11, at the 9/11 Park in Amityville. It will be there from 9 A.M. – Noon rain or shine. The park is on Broadway, near the railroad trestle, across from Peter’s Diner.
A $10 donation is requested by the Bay Village Civic Association, for three bags or boxes of personal paper material to be destroyed on site. The donation, made in cash or check payable to the BVCA, will help fund scholarships to Amityville H.S. seniors.
This event is a collaboration
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?
Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276
THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how to get started? Call today and one of our experienced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let us at SOUTH BAY'S NEIGHBOR NEWS PAPE RS set up an adv ertising program for you. Y ou'll be glad you di d! Call 631-226-2636, ext. 276
get started? Call today and one of our experi enced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let us at SOUTH BAY'S NEIGHBOR NEWS PAPE RS set up an adv ertising program for you. Y ou'll be glad you di d! Call 631-226-2636, Ext. 276
between the Amityville Library and the civic association.
BVCA volunteers will assist residents unload when they arrive at the parking lot. Drivers should wait until the volunteers signal to them to proceed to the truck. This is always a well anticipated and patronized event.
The BVCA represents the residents of the Village of Amityville and thanks the Library and everyone for their continued support. For more information, email bayvillagecivic@ aol.com. You may also see more details in the current edition of The Browser, published by the Library.
The Amityville School District is proud to announce that Joseph C. Dragone has been named the new interim assistant superintendent for business and operations, effective March 4. Dragone brings more than four decades of leadership in public education, with extensive experience overseeing district operations and finances. Most recently, he served as the interim assistant superintendent for business and operations in the Cold Spring Harbor Central School District.
A familiar face in Amityville, Dragone previously served as the district’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations from 2021-2022. Prior to his tenure in Cold Spring Harbor, Dragone also held senior business and administrative roles in the Manhasset, Roslyn, Harborfields and Rockville Centre school districts. He holds multiple advanced degrees in educational administration and mathematics,
and maintains permanent New York State certifications in school administration and supervision. He has served as an adjunct professor at Hofstra University, LIU Post, and Queens College as well as an instructor in the New York State School Boards Association Fiscal Integrity Training Program for new school board members and as an adjunct for NYSSBA providing Custom Board Retreats. He has also
served as an officer of state and local professional associations including the presidency of the New York State Association of School Personnel Administrators, a member of the Association of School Business Officials of New York (ASBO New York), formerly NYSASBO, Governmental Relations Committee, and officer of both the Nassau and Suffolk Chapters of ASBO. He continues to serve as a representative to the Long Island Educational Coalition.
Dragone has been active in his community including serving as the president of the local library board and as a founding member of educational foundations in Rockville Centre, Harborfields, and Northport. He now resides in Northport with his wife, Liz, and spends as much time as he can with his four children and six grandchildren.
Photo courtesy of the Amityville Union Free School District
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bring a water bottle. Registration is required.
The Day Trippers: Beatles Tribute Band Saturday, April 11
2:30 - 4:00 PM
Get ready for a fabulous musical journey! The Day Trippers are a Beatles tribute band that brings the magic of the Fab Four to life. Between songs, listen to fun behind-the-scenes tidbits about what makes each tune special, and learn what inspired The Beatles’ iconic sound. Come relive
a decade of musical evolution, Beatle-mania style! Registration is required.
Home Study Orientation Wednesday, April 15 5:00 - 8:45 PM Western Suffolk Home Study customizes GED and ESL lessons for students and allows them to work at their own pace. Students can pick up assignments at convenient locations. For more information and to register please call 631-6676000 ext. 470. Registration is required.
This Home Has So Much And More!!! Large, Landscaped Property, 5 Bedrooms And 3 Full Baths-Only 3 Years Old! Huge Rooms, High Ceilings, Gas Heat, Upgraded Kitchen Appliances, Fireplace In The Family Room For Cozy Nights. Walk-In Closets, Laundry Room With Gas Dryer. Full Basement With Outside Entrance. Full Attic For Storage. So Many Wonderful Features-Too Many To Mention, Come And Take A Look, A Real Must See.
$1,149,000
4 Bedroom, 2 Bath Ranch in School District #23 Spacious, Needs TLC. Come Make it Your Own. 100x140 Lot!!!
Legal 2 By Co Waterfront.
Great Investment Property. Large Studio Open Floor Plan & 2 Bed, 1 Bath. Separate Electric Meters. Bring your Checkbook
