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.
Main Street, Suite 106
Bethpage: 4070 Hempstead Turnpike
Massapequa Imaging: 1220 Hicksville Road
Massapequa Park: 5165 Merrick Road
Bayshore: 180 East Main Street, 1st Floor
Babylon: 400 West Main Street, Suite 106
Patient Service Center in Seaford (Located in Massapequa Imaging) 1220 Hicksville Road, Room I-12
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.
Seaford Wellness Council Donates
$14,000 To Library Reading Program
Seaford Wellness Council members present a $14,000 donation from the 20th Annual Seaford Hot Chocolate 5K Run/Walk to the Seaford Public Library in support of its Summer 2026 Children’s Reading Program prior to the Library Board of Trustees meeting on April 13. From Left to Right: Ken Nersesian, SWC Immediate Past Vice President, Hal Udell, SWC Vice President, Michael DiSilvio, SWC Immediate Past President, Laura Metzdorff-Rivera, SWC President, John Scapparro, SPL President, Peter Ruffner, SPL Vice President, Margaret Grub, SPL Secretary and Peter Janiec, SPL Assistant Financial Secretary.
The Seaford Wellness Council (SWC) is pleased to announce that the recipient of the charity proceeds from the 20th Annual Seaford Hot Chocolate 5K Run/ Walk, held on December 6, 2025, is the Seaford Public Library’s Summer 2026 Children’s Reading Program. The total donation amounts to $14,000.
A check was presented to the Board of Trustees of the Seaford Public Library (SPL) prior to its monthly meeting on April 13, 2026, at 6:45 p.m. Representing the SWC were President Laura Metzdorff-Rivera, Immediate Past President Michael J. DiSilvio, Vice President Hal Udell, and Immediate Past Vice President Kenneth
Nersesian. In attendance from the SPL Board of Trustees were President John M. Scaparro, Vice President Peter J. Ruffner, Secretary Margaret Grub, and Assistant Financial Secretary Peter Janiec.
The SPL’s Summer Children’s Reading Program is recognized as one of the best attended and most comprehensive among the 54 public libraries in Nassau County.
“The SWC could not be happier to have selected the 2026 Summer Children’s Reading Program as this year’s beneficiary,” said President MetzdorffRivera. “I know first-hand, through my daughters, about the wonderful activities offered at the library during the summer months and throughout
Seaford Public Library Events
2234 Jackson Avenue, Seaford, NY 11783 (516) 221-1334 ext. 3210
Password Manager (In-Person)
Presented by: Sharper Training Solutions
Tuesday, May 5th
Time: 7:00pm
So many passwords, how do we keep track of them all? In this class you will learn how to best manage your passwords using a password manager, as well as learn the best practices for keeping all your accounts secure from identity theft. No prerequisites. Please bring your questions. Register now ONLINE at www. seafordlibrary.org.
Gardening Trends 2026 (In-Person)
Wednesday, May 6th
Time: 1:30pm
Join instructor Lee Miller, landscape designer and author, as she leads a discussion on Gardening Trends of 2026 and what to expect in the upcoming year. Book sale and author signing will follow the presentation. Register now ONLINE at www.seafordlibrary.org.
Adult Speed Puzzle
Competition (In-Person)
Thursday, May 7th
Time: 1:00pm
the year.”
Library Board President Scaparro added, “We are extremely appreciative of the recognition and generous contribution from the Wellness Council.”
Immediate Past
President Michael J. DiSilvio, who served as SWC President at the time of the 20th Annual Seaford Hot Chocolate 5K Run/Walk, noted, “The SWC has a long history of supporting the Seaford Public Library, including funding for the annual summer concert series and the library’s 50th anniversary celebration. This donation further underscores the importance of the library to the Seaford community.”
lot behind the library. No registration required.
Seasonal Salads (In-Person)
Tuesday, May 12th
Time: 7:00pm
Cost: $10.00
Join Rachel Licht for a fresh and flavorful Spring Salad demonstration! Rachel will guide you through creating a delicious, vibrant salad
paired with two different homemade dressings. Along the way, you’ll pick up helpful tips on selecting ingredients and balancing flavors. Everyone will go home with a freshly prepped salad to enjoy. Registration begins ONLINE starting Saturday, May 2nd at www. seafordlibrary.org
Kayak Open House Set For May 2–3
Outdoor enthusiasts and curious beginners alike are invited to attend a Kayak Open House at The Dinghy Shop, located at 334 S Bayview Ave., Amityville, NY 11701. The event will take place on Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide selection of kayaks, paddles, and accessories, as well as participate in guided, on-water kayak
demonstrations. The event will also feature paddling workshops designed to help attendees build skills and confidence on the water. Whether new to kayaking or a seasoned paddler, attendees can connect with local clubs and learn more about paddling opportunities across Long Island.
For more information or to RSVP, visit www. dinghyshop.com, or call (631) 264-0005.
Race against other teams of puzzle enthusiasts to see which team can assemble a 500-piece puzzle the fastest! The fastest team will win a special prize. Up to four people on a team. Register now ONLINE at www. seafordlibrary.org.
St. Francis Hospital
Community Outreach Van
Monday, May 11th
Time: 10:00am-2:00pm FREE
St. Francis Hospital offers free health screenings using their state-of-theart outreach van. These screenings include a brief cardiac history, blood pressure, simple blood test for cholesterol, and diabetes screenings with the appropriate patient education and referrals needed for clients above the age of 18. The van will be located in the parking
Kids Coloring Contest!
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:
South Bay's Neighbor celebrates local small businesses!
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.
Seaford Habits Of Mind Conference Touts Successful Partnership
Educators from other districts on Long Island and as far away as South Carolina came together at Seaford High School on April 16 and 17 to learn about an established and effective social and emotional learning program. The Seaford School District hosted it first Habits of Mind Conference, highlighting the 16 dispositions of a productive learner.
The conference began with a keynote presentation from Habits of Mind co-founder Dr. Bena Kallick and international curriculum consultant Allison Zmuda. They noted that what began as a seed with the publishing of a book 31 years ago has grown tremendously and is now firmly rooted, as many schools across the country have adopted the Habits of Mind. In Seaford, it is part of the community and the culture, with educators promoting skills like communicating effectively, persisting and thinking flexibly.
Superintendent Dr. Adele Pecora shared her journey with the Habits of Mind, discovering the book 24 years ago as a first-time administrator and bringing the initiative to Seaford when she became superintendent in 2017. She explained how students learn better
when they develop these actionable behaviors that foster thinking and reflection.
Conference attendees watched short videos and then discussed which Habits of Mind traits were represented. Dr. Pecora then explained how the Habits of Mind served as inspiration for creation of the Seaford Scholar Profile, with 10 traits that have become part of daily life in the district.
April 16 featured site visits to Harbor and Manor elementary schools, both of which have been designated a Learning Community of Excellence by the Institute for Habits of Mind. They visited classrooms to see lessons in action related to the Habits of Mind and Seaford Scholars Profile. In Christina Ficarelli’s class at Harbor, third graders had a thoughtful discussion on the Seaford Scholar trait, humorous. Kristin Nelson’s third grade students at Manor worked together on a cup-stacking challenge, using only string and rubberbands to move the cups, an activity that demonstrated communication and persistence.
The following day included breakout sessions and a Seaford Scholars panel. A dozen students – four elementary, four middle school and four
The Seaford School District hosted a Habits of Mind Conference on April 16 and 17 at the high school. Administrators welcomed author Dr. Bena Kallick, center, and international curriculum consultant Allison Zmuda, fifth from right. Photos courtesy of the Seaford School District
high school – discussed how the Seaford Scholar traits have helped them in school and throughout their daily lives. The panel was moderated by Dr. Pecora.
The Habits of Mind Conference was coordinated by Dr. Sheena Jacob, assistant superintendent for human resources and instructional support, along with administrators and teachers on the
Seaford Scholars committee. Dr. Jacob said that goal of the conference was to spark conversation, build connections and strengthen instruction. She added that the skills emphasized through the Habits of Mind are competencies valued by colleges and employers, and are attributable to success in an everchanging world.
Dr. Pecora said that the conference was a
prideful moment for both Dr. Kallick, who got to showcase her work over the past few decades, and the Seaford School District, which was able to share its successful adoption of the Habits of Mind and, from it, the development of the Seaford Scholars Profile.
“The conference went exceptionally well,” Dr. Pecora said. “Our guests saw how the Habits of Mind are infused in all of the work that we do. They
learned that when we grow these skills in children, they become more effective learners and leaders. There was great value in touring our campuses to see how it’s part of the fabric of what we do with Seaford. Through breakout sessions, panel discussions and informal conversations, participants got to hear from everybody – administrators, teachers and students. That was the power of this conference.”
Superintendent Dr. Adele Pecora hosted a Seaford Scholars panel with 12 students from elementary, middle and high schools.
Bring Your Burger-Making Skills To
The Next Level
Hamburgers are a staple of menus in millions of homes. Whether you’re hosting friends on Memorial Day weekend or simply looking for a hearty midweek meal, burgers and summertime cooking go hand in hand. Hamburgers are a straightforward dish that are often prepared on a grill. But burgers also can be prepared on a stovetop, which can add a new flavor profile to this beloved staple. Those looking to do just that can try this recipe for “Beef Burgers With Onions, Spinach, Ketchup, and Blue Cheese” from Lines+Angles.
DIRECTIONS:
For the sauce: Heat the oil in a pan and lightly sauté the diced onion and garlic. Stir in the honey and sugar and simmer briefly. Mix in the tomato puree, passata, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and whiskey. Simmer until thickened. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and chilli powder to taste.
For the burgers: Place the beef in a bowl, add the onions, salt, pepper, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili sauce, and mix well. Shape into 4 burgers.
Preheat a griddle pan. Lightly oil the pan and grill the burgers for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once. During the last minute of cooking, top the burgers with cheese and allow to melt. Remove the burgers from the pan and set aside. Halve the burger buns horizontally and toast in the pan, cut-side down, for 1 minute, then remove. Layer the bottom half of each bun with spinach and sprinkle with crispy onions. Place the burgers on top, drizzle with tomato sauce and cover with the top bun halves. Fix with a skewer if desired and serve with the remaining sauce separately.
Beef Burgers With Onions, Spinach, Ketchup, And Blue Cheese
Makes 4 Servings
For the sauce:
tablespoon olive oil
small red onion, peeled and finely diced
to 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely diced
tablespoon brown sugar
tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
tablespoon apple cider vinegar
tablespoon whiskey 1⁄2 teaspoon salt or to taste 1⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or taste 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika, or to taste 1⁄4 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste For the burgers:
onion, peeled and finely diced
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26- 2636 Ex t. 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.
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.
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.
Complete
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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 recent 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.
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TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
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TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
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(NAPSI)—Many fire departments are looking for volunteers to step up and serve their communities, reports the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the national association for the volunteer fire service. For more information about the volunteer fire service and to find an opportunity, visit www. MakeMeAFirefighter. com.
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL
631-226-2636
STEVE J. DIMARE
Format: Texas Scramble
PROUDLY HONORING
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!
GOLF COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP
Diane Caputi Retired, Dime Bank
Steven M. DiMare CEO, Unified Home Remodeling
David P. Ofenloch, Esq. Partner,Tarter Krinsky & Drogin LLP
Local Artists Invited To Showcase Work At ‘Art In The Park’
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand is inviting local artists and artisans to participate in a special day of creativity and community at Art in the Park. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, May 30th, at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach in Oyster Bay, offering a unique platform for talented individuals to display and sell their handcrafted creations. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 15, 2026.
“Art in the Park provides an incredible opportunity for local artists and artisans to showcase their best work, connect with the community, and gain recognition,” said Councilman Hand. “Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your creativity and be part of a vibrant community event, featuring live music, food trucks, and fun activities
for kids.”
Artists and artisans must be 18 years or older and can only display and sell original, handcrafted pieces. Commercial or massproduced items will not be permitted. Participants are responsible for supplying their own 10x10 canopy and any additional equipment needed for their space. Full details, including associated costs, are outlined in the application available online.
Organized by the Town’s Department of Community
& Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts Division, Art in the Park celebrates a diverse range of handcrafted works, including ceramics, watercolors, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, sculptures, and more.
To apply, visit the Town’s website at www. oysterbaytown.com/capa or contact the Cultural and Performing Arts Division at (516) 797-7932 for more information.
