Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the People’s Arc of Suffolk Educare Center in Bohemia staged a special surprise “prom-posal” to Sean Chamberlan, Head Coach of the Farmingdale State College (FSC) Men’s Lacrosse team, asking him to serve as the honoree for the group’s 2026 Candlelight Ball.
Small business is big business across much of North America. Small businesses boast a notable presence in the United States, where the Small Business Administration reports such establishments account for 99 percent of the nation’s firms.
Since 1963, the President of the United States has declared National Small Business Week to recognize small businesses as the job creators, builders, and innovators of America’s economy. Supporting these businesses is important, and here’s just a few reasons why:
• Small businesses are significant employers. The term “small business” can be misleading, particularly in terms of job creation. While small businesses are generally described as firms with fewer than 500 employees, recent data from the U.S. Small Business Administration indicated small companies accounted for two-thirds of employment growth across the U.S. over the last quarter century, ultimately creating around 13 million jobs during that time period.
• Small business spending is more likely to stay in the local community. Data from the American Independent Business Alliance indicates 48 percent of each purchase at a local independent business was recirculated locally. By comparison, just 14 percent of purchases at chain stores was recirculated locally. That means more than three times as much money is staying in communities when consumers buy from locally owned businesses compared to chain retailers.
• Innovative o erings: Small businesses are not beholden to corporate policies or franchise restrictions, so they can more readily bring new life to existing ideas and trends. Small businesses can and often do o er customers di erent options that larger retailers cannot match.
As Small Business Week approaches, take a moment to think about how you can support local small businesses right here on Long Island. And as always, thank you for your readership - your support means so much to our very own small business.
Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Three winners will be chosen - one in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10.
Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to the Long Island Aquarium All entries must be submitted by May 15. Winners will be notified on May 18. One entry per person.
Please mail your submission to:
Long Island Media Group
Attn: Marketing 565 Broadhollow Road Suite 3
Farmingdale, NY 11735
Name:
Age: __ Phone Number: Email address: Town:
Article provided by Ken Marcus and Mitchell Barber
You can be the safest driver on the road—seatbelt on, no phone in your hand, eyes forward—and still end up in a bad situation because of someone else.
Here’s the part most people don’t think about: not everyone driving in New York is properly insured.
Roughly 8–10% of drivers in New York have no insurance at all. But the bigger issue is that a much larger group is driving with only the state minimum liability limits of $25,000/$50,000. That may satisfy the legal requirement, but in a real accident, it doesn’t go very far.
Picture this: someone runs a red light and hits you. You’re injured and taken to the hospital. Between the ambulance, ER visit, and follow-ups, that $25,000 can be used up
quickly—sometimes before treatment is even complete. And if that’s all the other driver has, that’s where their policy stops.
That’s where Supplementary Uninsured/ Underinsured Motorist (SUM) coverage comes in. Think of SUM as protection for you and your passengers—not your car. If the other driver has no insurance, your policy steps
in. If they have low limits, your SUM coverage can help fill the gap.
For example, if you carry $250,000/$500,000 in SUM coverage and the other driver only has $25,000/$50,000, you’re not stuck there. You can access additional protection through your own policy, up to your limit.
The hidden risk is this: most people focus on damage to their vehicle, but the bigger exposure is your ability to earn an income, recover physically, and maintain your lifestyle. Cars can be repaired or replaced. A serious injury is a different story.
The simple move is to make sure your SUM coverage matches your Bodily Injury limits— typically $250,000/500,000
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Benjamin Markan Partner, REMCO Agency
Benjamin has been a steadfast supporter of individuals and nonprofits, including New Ground, consistently giving back through donations and service to help break the cycle of homelessness for Long Island's Veterans and families
New Ground helps Veterans and families break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Our dedicated Social Workers target long-term solutions including higher education, career development, and financial literacy, to empower clients to achieve self-sufficiency. Supporting the children’s academics and well-being means future independence for all!
THURSDAY, APRIL 30th
8:00 PM
Doors open at 6:30PM
COMEDY NIGHT FUNDRAISER
The Kiwanis Club of Wantagh Comedy Night Fundraiser at Governor's Comedy Club 90 Division Avenue in Levittown. Tickets not sold at the door. Come support a great cause, comedy and wonderful raffle baskets. All proceeds support the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh's community service projects, scholarships and Kamp Kiwanis. For Tickets: contact Debbie Tota: 516.729.0521. Mail checks payable to Wantagh Kiwanis 2868 Lindale Street, Wantagh, NY 11793, www.facebook.com/ photo?fbid =1252757503617537&set =a.444021294491166
FRIDAY, MAY 1st
SATURDAY, MAY 2nd
9:30AM-3:00PM YARD SALE FUNDRAISER (Rain or Shine)
Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. Free admission (no vendors) For more information, please call 631-242-0221, churchon231@gmail.com
SATURDAY, MAY 2nd
9:00AM
I LOVE MY PARK DAY
Join us to celebrate and enhance New York’s parks, historic sites, greenway trails and other public lands. As the largest single-day volunteer event in New York State, it brings our community together. The work you do that day not only enhances the natural beauty and accessibility of our iconic state park but also ensures that this cherished space is ready to be
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
enjoyed by all throughout the season. By volunteering, you contribute to preserving the environment, fostering community pride, and supporting the long-term sustainability of New York’s treasured public lands. Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 4090 Sunrise Hwy in Oakdale. Register at ILMPD Event Map | LONYL Registration
9:30AM-3:00PM
SPRING PERENNIAL PLANT SALE
United Methodist Church in Sayville. Corner of Greene Ave and Main Street. Visit the Sayville Garden Club's annual Perennial Plant Sale. A wonderful selection of potted plants and house plants fairly priced. For more information, please call 631 567 2561, sayvillegardenclub@gmail.com
7:00PM
AMERICA’S 250th, CHOIR’S 50th (Rain or Shine)
100+ singers from parishes all over Long Island celebrate our parish choir’s 50th anniversary with Vivaldi’s Gloria and a hymn festival. It's also the 20th spring choir concert for the month of Our Blessed Mother Mary as they close the 10th year of the monthly concert series in memory of the 100th birthday of original parishioner Nelson Pontillo. Free Will Offering, All Welcome, Just Walk In, Hospitality to Follow. A special acknowledgement goes to Padre Pio Prayer Group anticipating their Mass for the Saint later in May. Our Lady of Grace RC Church - 666 Albin Ave. in West Babylon. For more information, please call the parish office 516-587-5185
MONDAY, MAY 4th
1:00PM-7:00PM
NEW YORK BLOOD CENTER BLOOD DRIVE
Charles S. Barr, Blood Drive Coordinator, Memorare Knights of Columbus. The Knights of Columbus, 2183 Jackson Ave. in Seaford, is hosting the New York Blood Center for a Blood Drive. Please feel free to call 1-800-933-BLOOD to make a reservation or just walk in. Call Charlie Barr, 516-510-4703, with any questions.
TUESDAY, MAY 5th
6:00PM-8:00PM CINCO DE MAYO TACO NIGHT
Sgt. John Sardiello Post No. 1634, 10 Bruce Street, West Babylon Stop on by for dinner before or after your evening events! Dine in or Take Out!! All proceeds will benefit the kitchen fund of American Legion Post 1634, providing future fellowship gatherings for our veterans and their families. For tickets, visit our Zeffy site at: https:// www.zeffy com/en-US/ticketing/ american-legion-post-1634-eventtickets. For more information, contact: secretary,post1634@flmail.com Space is limited.
THURSDAY, MAY 14th
6:30PM
FASHION SHOW
At the Giovanni Caboto Lodge #2372, Order, Seaford American Legion, 2301 Penatiquit Avenue. Great raffle prizes, the latest fashions, music, a wonderful dinner, dessert and more. The purpose of this fundraiser is to raise money to continue to support the many charities they sponsor, plus award scholarships to several of our local high school students. For further information/ reservations please contact Rosemarie DiChiara at 516-458-0097.
Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the People’s Arc of Suffolk Educare Center in Bohemia staged a special surprise “promposal” to Sean Chamberlan, Head Coach of the Farmingdale State College (FSC) Men’s Lacrosse team, asking him to serve as the honoree for the group’s 2026 Candlelight Ball.
Students held a homemade sign that read “Will you Be Our Honoree?” and waved green and white pom poms, the colors of Farmingdale State College. Members of the FSC Men’s Lacrosse Team joined the celebration, with playful “heads on sticks” in Coach Chamberlan’s likeness.
The ask was made through an adaptive switch device, which the
Educare students pushed to play a recorded message.
Chamberlan responded by pushing another button that simply said “yes,” which set off a chorus of cheers and applause from the kids.
“Coming here is a breath of fresh air, seeing kids learning and getting excited about their day. It’s really a positive experience,” said Coach Chamberlan. “It’s not just the kids that keep us coming back, it’s the teachers and the passion they put into the school. It’s amazing.”
Coach Chamberlan’s ongoing involvement with the school, including his annual visits to bring Christmas toys to the students at the Educare center, has made a meaningful difference in the lives of students.
“Sean has been coming here every holiday season and has recruited his players year after year to help,” said John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk. “He does it without fanfare or mandate. It speaks to how big his heart is. We are so grateful to him and we’re looking forward to honoring his selfless work this fall.”
The Candlelight Ball will be held on October 15, 2026, and is the largest fundraiser of the year for People’s Arc of Suffolk, raising funds to support programs, including those that benefit students at the Educare Center.
About People’s Arc of Suffolk
Formerly known as AHRC Suffolk, People’s Arc of Suffolk is dedicated to creating communities where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy life to its fullest. The organization provides a wide array of services, including employment opportunities, education programs, and community engagement, all aimed at fostering an equitable and integrated community for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Follow People’s Arc of Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube,
Contrary to one popular misconception, Cinco de Mayo is not a celebration of Mexican independence. According to History. com, Mexico’s Día de la Independencia is commemorated on September 16. So what does Cinco de Mayo commemorate? Cinco de Mayo commemorates an improbable Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Though Cinco de Mayo is now celebrated across the United States, it remains a minor holiday in Mexico that is primarily observed in the state of Puebla. Knowledge of the holiday’s origins may or may not be widespread among American celebrants, many of whom view Cinco de Mayo as a celebration of Mexican culture.
Let us know about your honors, awards, promotions and other announcements. They are always welcome. Photos can be emailed as well. Send them to editorial@ longislandmediagroup.com.
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or higher. Because the real question isn’t whether you’re a good driver. It’s whether the person who hits you is.
Most people don’t realize this gap exists until they need it. If this is new information, it might be time for a different kind of conversation about your coverage.
Insurance Questions… Call Us at 516-753-2600!
Adventureland is Long Island’s only place to enjoy thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides—all in one park! Family owned and operated for over 64 years! This Farmingdale favorite offers safe, clean fun for all ages!
Admission includes unlimited rides all day plus live entertainment like magicians, stage shows, and princesses. Guests also enjoy FREE parking and FREE high-speed internet.
Pays for itself in under 4 visits! Includes perks like expedited entry, discounts on souvenir cups, and bring-a-friend deals.
Alfie’s Last Call: Save up to 43% on general admission (available daily for the last 2 operating hours)
Sunset Savings: Save up to 37% on general admission (Mon-Thurs after 5pm, June 29-Aug 13)
Library Passes: Save up to 32% on general admission (available for purchase at participating libraries)
Mother’s Day (May 10): MOMS get FREE admission on Mother's Day with the purchase of a full priced general admission ticket.
Father’s Day (June 21): DADS get FREE admission on Father's Day with the purchase of a full priced general admission ticket.
Veal,
IS MONDAY, MAY 25TH
Sunday, May 10th
“Adopt don’t shop” is a mantra utilized by many organizations devoted to finding loving homes for shelter animals. With thousands of dogs, cats and other companion animals residing in shelters or being fostered until they can find their forever homes, rescue organizations urge the pet-loving public to adopt rather than purchase dogs from private breeders.
Individuals who choose to adopt a dog from a private rescue, humane society, animal shelter, or another welfare group would be wise to follow some guidelines that can help individuals and families find the best matches with their new pets.
“It’s important to be honest with the rescue group regarding, not only what you’re looking for in a dog, such as disposition, energy level, age, and size, but to describe the overall household dynamic,” advises Toni Diamond, founder of Diamond Dogs Rescue, Inc. (www. diamonddogsrescueinc. com), a foster-based rescue with resources in New Jersey and Massachusetts. “This way the rescue can match your needs with the dogs they have available to ensure the best
opportunity the placed pet will remain in your home.”
Here are some other tips to consider if you’re thinking of adopting a pet.
• Think about fostering first. If you’re on the fence about whether to take in a dog right now, fostering offers a way to gauge how life can change with a dog in the household. Fostering a dog can free up resources and enable rescues to help other dogs. Many “foster fails” are dogs that foster families
adopted themselves because they couldn’t bear to give the dogs up.
• Expect to be vetted. Rescue groups generally do some type of adopter check, which includes an application questionnaire, and may want to visit your home to be sure that it is safe and comfortable for the dog. Expect an adoption fee, as this helps defray the cost of sheltering animals.
• Don’t feel limited by geography. Rescues
Welcoming a new puppy is exciting but comes with responsibility. The first few months are crucial for shaping a dog’s health, behavior, and well-being, so proper care, nutrition, and training are essential.
handle dogs from across the country. Some may even be willing to facilitate travel from one area to another. If you see a dog online that seems to be a perfect fit but is a good distance away, contact the rescue to see what can be done.
• Be patient and openminded. Rescued animals often have been jostled around a bit, moving from place to place. Expect a transition period for the shell-shocked animal to settle down before judging his or her true personality. It’s possible for rescued dogs to have accidents in a home, act out or be hesitant around people while they learn to trust their new owners.
Adopting a dog can be a great way to add to the family and provide a loving animal with new beginnings.
Health: Schedule a vet visit right away for vaccinations and a wellness check. Core vaccines protect against serious diseases, and puppies should stay close to home until fully immunized. Treat any parasites under veterinary guidance.
Nutrition: Puppies need more energy and nutrients than adult dogs. Feed high-quality puppy food in three to four small meals daily, transitioning to adult food as they near full growth.
Socialization: Between 3–16 weeks, expose puppies to people, environments, and other dogs in a positive way to build confidence and good behavior.
Training: Start early with basic commands using positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short, consistent, and rewarding. Establish a regular potty schedule to support house training.
The Women’s Club of Farmingdale (WCF) held their March 5, 2026 meeting at the Community Center at Elsworth Allen Park in Farmingdale. Luncheon Chair Nancy Carman and her committee Gayle Garthwaite, Linda Hayes, Joanne Restivo and Anna Ievolo prepared an assortment of holiday desserts displayed among festive St. Patrick’s Day decorations. Plans were discussed for upcoming programs, including the
collection of gently used women’s business attire donations for Dress for Success and the ongoing Shut the Door on Hunger program which ensures local students have healthy meals when schools are closed. In addition, collections are made at every meeting for expendable eyeglasses/cases and pill bottles which are then sent to developing countries and used postage stamps to provide therapeutic, creative activities for veterans.
In the spirit of Women’s History Month, 1st VP Margaret Barrett invited speaker Kim Poulos Lieberz to address the club about her local branding and marketing business, KGI Design Group, which she established over 28 years ago. She is a proud summa cum laude graduate of SUNY FIT, attended Yale University’s Brissago program and is a graduate of Goldman Saks 10KSB business growth cohort. Recent works support the NYC transit construction industry on projects for the MTA and NYS DOT. Together with her assistant, Anna, Kim described her company’s branding in the subways, on TV commercials, sports networks and cable TV entertainment, as well as the construction, pharmaceutical, aerospace and insurance industries. Kim consistently gives back to the community and, with KGI, donates funds and services to many notfor-profit organizations, especially the American Cancer Society. She works hard to support veterans’ groups and the Rett Syndrome community and is a member of the Farmingdale and Huntington Chambers of Commerce and the Suffolk County Women’s Business Enterprise Coalition. For more information, email: kim@kgidesigngroup. com, phone: 516-420-0013,
location: 280 Main Street, Ste. 34, Farmingdale.
On March 16, St. Patrick’s Day spirit and song were present as members of St. Kilian’s Church Choir, retired school district Fine Arts Director, Rita Padden on keyboard, and her husband, Tom, on guitar, together with members of The Women’s Club of Farmingdale and friends serenaded members of the Farmingdale Adult Day Care Center with cherished Irish songs. The celebration included 4 solo performances, three of which were sung by cantors from St. Kilian’s Church and one from St. Kilian’s Choir. On March 17, by invitation, this choir raised their voices once again for the patients of the Woodbury Heights Rehab & Nursing
facility. The choir’s visit was a highlight of the week for the residents and provided a heartwarming experience that brought smiles and memories.
In honor of the upcoming Easter/Spring holiday, members visited Epic House in Farmingdale on Wednesday, March 18, to bring the residents some special items, including homemade desserts and candies and small therapeutic and beneficial toys. The EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment, rooted in the belief that education, training and supportive services can unlock the full potential of every individual.
On February 27, the WCF Book Club, chaired by Elaine
Ryan, met at Rosemarie’s Restaurant in Farmingdale, to discuss their book selection, Mount Vernon, a Love Story, by Mary Higgins Clark. This historical romance novel is based on the personal life of George and Martha Washington, their courtship, marriage and deep emotional connection. It was a huge crowd pleaser.
The Women’s Club of Farmingdale, a local 501-C3 non-profit organization, is always interested in welcoming new members. For more information, please email: lyndaleone@ gmail.com or jude523@aol. com. #IAMGFWC
Submitted by Maria Ortolani, WCF Publicity Chair
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