South Bay's Neighbor
MAY HAPPENINGS
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.
Richard Gotlib M.D., Ph.D., F.A.A.O. Glaucoma Specialist, General Ophthalmology Board Certified In Ophthalmology
Our Small Practice Allows The Personalized Care You Desire, While Providing You With State-Of-The-Art Technologies For Diagnosis And Treatment
Specializing in the Treatment of Cataracts, Glaucoma, Dry Eye, Diabetes, Pterygium, Eyelid Surgery, Including Skin Cancer, Botox Treatments, Laser Surgery & Laser Vision Correction (LASIK)
Providing All General Eye Care
Affiliated with Good Samaritan Hospital, South Shore University Hospital, Huntington Hospital Long Island Eye Surgery Center Melville Surgery Center
PARTICIPATING
MOTHER'S DAY
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:
Sell Your Home Quietly & Strategically
Town Graduates Spring 2026 Law Enforcement Academy Cadets
The Town of Islip Law Enforcement Academy recently graduated its spring of 2026 class of cadets in the newly refurbished auditorium at 401 Main St., Town Hall West.
The robust academy is led by NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) certified instructors and has been built from the ground up in the Town of Islip to better prepare recruits and current officers for service in Islip and beyond.
Formerly the Peace Officer Academy, the name has been changed to Town of Islip Law Enforcement Academy as Police Officers now use the program, some having come from as far away as Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. The Basic Course for Peace Officers is 14 weeks long and includes firearms and other weapons training. All instructors are certified by the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). Classroom instruction focuses on law, ethics, communication, daily defensive tactics, as well as de-escalation, Narcan, CPR, First Aid training and more.
“We are so fortunate in the Town of Islip that our Public Safety Division is comprised of individuals with the skills and resources necessary to build, grow and conduct its own in-house training Academy. In just these past few years, the program has seen immense support, growing from a staff of 2 instructors to our current 14, which includes 2 NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) certified instructors. And as instruction increases, so do resources; every year we are able to access and use new equipment and technology,” said Islip Supervisor, Angie Carpenter.
The Town graduated cadets not just from the Town of Islip, but also the Towns of Smithtown and Babylon, bringing the total number of graduates to 128 since the program’s inception. Joining Supervisor Angie Carpenter to congratulate the recruits were Islip Town Councilman, Jorge Guadron, Supervisor Rich Schaffer of Babylon, Long Island MacArthur Airport and Town of Smithtown officials, among others.
“We are proud of our dedicated and knowledgeable instructors, for the invaluable training they provide; we are proud of all our cadets and officers who complete this training, becoming better equipped to serve our residents and the public; and we look on with pride watching the Academy continue to grow as one of the ‘go to’ training facilities in the area,” said Public Safety Commissioner, Anthony Prudenti.
“We are so fortunate in the Town of Islip that our Public Safety Division is comprised of individuals with the skills and resources necessary to build, grow and conduct its own in-house training Academy,” said Islip Town Councilman, Jorge Guadron.
DCJS is recommending the Town’s academy to other law enforcement agencies. The Academy trains all TOI Park Rangers, as well as Harbormasters and Fire Marshals. And can also provide training to LIMA Airport Security Officers.
Congratulations to each of these 17 cadets!
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
REVERSE MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS, INC., -againstIRENE O’SHEA, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on January 17, 2018, wherein REVERSE MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS, INC. is the Plaintiff and IRENE O’SHEA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will
sell at public auction at the ISLIP TOWN HALL, 655 MAIN STREET, ISLIP, NY 11751, on May 20, 2026 at 10:30AM, premises known as 540 BELLMORE ST, WEST ISLIP, NY 11795; and the following tax map identification: 0500337.00-02.00-049.000.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT WEST ISLIP, TOWN OF ISLIP, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
A Powerful New Memoir Explores Love,
And I Wait…, a deeply moving debut memoir, offers an intimate look into the emotional landscape of caregiving, resilience, and the quiet moments that shape us.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 607870/2015.
Vincent M. Amicizia, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
WI - 1580 - 4/15, 4/22, 4/29 & 5/6/26
Through honest and reflective storytelling, And I Wait… captures the experience of standing beside a loved one through illness—where hope, uncertainty, and strength coexist. With a voice that is both compassionate and unflinching, the author invites readers into the spaces often left unspoken: the waiting rooms, the pauses, and the life that exists between before and after.
This memoir resonates with caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone who has faced the complexity of loving someone through difficult transitions. It challenges the notion that there is “nothing more to be done,” offering instead a perspective rooted in presence, dignity, and enduring connection.
And I Wait… is now available on Amazon.
For more information, please visit: https://a.co/ d/0aCvJFMM
About the Author
The author brings a unique perspective shaped by both personal experience and a deep understanding of care, illuminating the emotional truths that connect us all.
Dr. MaryAnn Fragola, Doctor of Nursing Practice, is Chief of Wellness Services at New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, where she specializes in Supportive and Palliative care. For more than twenty-five years, she has guided patients and families through serious illness, focusing on dignity, comfort, and quality of life.
And I Wait… was born from a deeply personal experience. When her father
was diagnosed with cancer, Dr. Fragola found herself on the other side of medicine — not as the clinician, but as the daughter. Writing this memoir became part of
her own healing and a way to give voice to the complex emotions caregivers often carry but rarely express.
Through her work and her writing, she remains committed to helping patients and families navigate illness with honesty, compassion, and presence. She hopes this story helps caregivers recognize that many of the thoughts and emotions they experience during illness and grief are more normal than they realize.
Outside of her professional life, she enjoys reading, time with her family, and the loyal companionship of her German shepherds.
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.
Saturday, June
Mark your calendars and get ready to Unearth a Story this summer!
DRAMA WITH YOUR MAMA Ages 3-PreK
Monday, May 4 • 4:15PM
Build conf idence and skill through acting, music, and dance in this fun class
LIT TLE BUILDERS Ages 2-4
Wednesday, May 20 • 10:30AM or 4:15PM
It ’s time to build! Develop your imagination and creativity while having fun stacking, sorting, and constructing using our wide selection of building toys.
Celebrate the start of summer and sign up for our summer reading
Visit our literary mocktail station, bedazzle your own book with our diamond painting supplies and check out some books as you Unearth a Story! For children, we'll have Mad Science family shows (check our online calendar for showtimes), balloon animals, face painting, and a drop-in craf t room! Registration required for science shows. No registration required for other activities. WI residents only.
N S
AUTHOR EVENT: THE SECRE T TO CREATING COMPELLING CHARACTERS
Monday, May 18 • 7-8PM
Local writer Michael Gilroy will share the opening pages f rom his book Vanguards: The World Waits for No One and discuss the process of creating memorable, compelling characters First 10 teens to register get a f ree copy!
REGENTS REVIEW
$50 non-refundable fee per class (cash or check)
Taught by NYS certif ied teachers, these classes are great ref reshers before taking Regents exams Review materials/ handouts provided Registration begins Friday, May 1 at 10AM WI teen residents only
GLOBAL HISTORY: Monday, June 1 • 5:30-8:30PM
ALGEBRA II: Saturday, June 6 • 10AM-1PM
EARTH SCIENCE: Thursday, June 11 • 5:30-8:30PM
ALGEBRA I: Saturday, June 13 • 10AM-1PM
BIOLOGY (LIFE SCIENCE ): Tuesday, June 16 • 5:30-8:30PM
GEOMETRY: Saturday, June 20 • 10AM-1PM
CHEMISTRY: Monday, June 22 • 5:30-8:30PM
S a t u r d a y : 9 A M - 5 P M
S u n d a y : 1 P M - 5 P M
C
elebrating America ’ s
250th! Celebrating America’s
AMERICA’S SHELTER PE TS (for Grades 7-12)
Wednesday, May 6 • 7-8PM
Create Hamilton-inspired collages for adoptable shelter pets to help them f ind their fur-ever homes! Community service credit awarded WI teen residents only
TOWN OF ISLIP ’S REVOLUTIONARY LEGACY
Tuesday, May 12 • 7-8:30PM
Lynn Luttenberger f rom the WI Historical Society and Islip
Town Historian George Munkenbeck will give a lively presentation on the role our local townships played during the American Revolutionary period Gain insight into the impact of the Battle of Long Island and meet some of the notable patriots f rom WI who contributed to the cause of independence
AMERICANA FLOWER PAINTING (for Grades 4-6)
Monday, June 15 • 6:30PM
Paint a beautiful tribute to our independence in celebration of America 250 WI tween residents only
LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS
Tuesday, June 23 • 7-8PM
Explore how the Declaration of Independence has been interpreted and redef ined throughout history. Join teacher Janis Schachter to examine how these hallowed words continue to shape the American identity today
INDEPENDENCE CRUISER
Monday, June 29 • 3-6PM
Hop on the SLED bus and travel back in time to sign the Declaration of Independence which will be displayed in the Library all summer long. Take home a time traveling souvenir photo and make your very own mini Liberty Bell. But be warned, the British will be coming for you! For ALL ages!
AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL BINGO
Tuesday, June 30 • 7-8PM
Test your music knowledge while playing bingo! Listen to American themed songs to celebrate the 250th quincentennial Winners will receive a prize! WI residents only.
A WAY WE GROW
Thursday, May 14 • 7-8PM
Learn about the therapeutic benef its of reconnecting with nature Get your hands in the soil and go home with a plant to beautify your outdoor landscape Planting supplies will be provided WI residents only
FOLK MUSIC THROUGH THE ERAS
Saturday, May 16 • 1-2:30PM
Join Emy McB as she sings your favorite songs f rom the 50's through the 80's and beyond Emy will entertain you with her fun, folky sound and interesting anecdotes between songs
Math Skills Brought To Life At Oquenock
Students in Ms. Wheeler’s math classes at Oquenock Elementary School in the West Islip Union Free School District recently participated in Celebrate Math Week, a districtwide initiative designed to highlight the importance of mathematics through engaging, realworld experiences. Throughout the week,
themed days focused on topics such as money, sports, art, games and puzzles, giving students meaningful opportunities to see how math connects to everyday life.
As part of the “Math & Money” theme, students took on the role of shopkeepers in a hands-on activity that brought financial literacy to life. Teachers
placed mock orders, and students were responsible for calculating totals and determining the correct change. They then created shopping bags and receipts, carefully packed the items, and delivered each order, simulating a real shopping experience.
The activity not only reinforced key
math skills but also encouraged problem solving, collaboration and attention to detail. By combining academic concepts with interactive learning, students gained a deeper understanding of how math is used beyond the classroom.
Photos courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District
Grief And Loss Peer-Led Support Group
Gabriel’s Giving Tree (GGT), along with the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD), Families in Support of Treatment (FIST), Family & Children’s Association, (FCA) and Human
Understanding and Growth Services (HUGS) are joining together to offer a free grief and loss peer-led support group. The group will meet at the East End THRIVE location, at 680 Elton Street, Riverhead, from 6:30 to
7:30 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. The focus of the support group will be to explore ways to find comfort, share support and begin healing for those who have lost a loved one.
“Losing a loved one can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone,” said Paulette Phililppe, founder of Gabriel’s Giving Tree. For more information, call Paulette at 631-786-0368.
WORDS
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwords.
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
Can
631-383-1087
Camps/Schools
*Top Dollar Paid
*Highest Pa yout *A ny Condition
*Collision Damage OK
*Mecha nical Prob lems OK
*Car Lo ans Pa id Off
*Leased Car Buyouts
29 W. Sunrise Hwy. Lind enhu rst (next to IHOP)
631-226-2277
516-535-9700
CASHFOR CARS LONG ISLAND.NET
646-907-8473 kidsneedmore.org
Gutters GUTTER S Cleaned! Repaired! Replaced! 20% off on gutter guards Expert Handyman & Power Washing Services Available. Reasonable, Reliable & Ready! Mention This Ad!
FREE ESTIMAT ES ALWAYS!! Licensed & Insured. Owner On Every Jo b TRIPLE R GU TTERS Call To ny 516-799-4306 631-793-8812 Home Im pr ovement
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.
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. CALL NE IGHBOR NE WS PAPERS to place your classified ad. 631-226-2636, 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. CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS! Call toda y! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646
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.
•RETAINING WALLS
•CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS & APRONS
•CULTURED STON E •WALKWAYS
•BELGIA N BLOCKS
•BRICK STOO PS & STEPS
•BAS EMENT ENTRANCES
•EGRE SS WINDO WS
CA MBRIDG E PATIO 20' X 20' $5900
• CAMBRIDGE PAVERS. • BLACKTOP DRIVEWAYS, • CHIMNEY REPAIRS, • PATIOS, • NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS, PVC FENCES,
ESTIMATES LICENSED/INSURED HI-65214 JAC BELL MASONRY CALL 631 205 4710
JAG MASONRY & LANDS CAPING
AYS
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!
Se Necesitan Albaniles Con O Algo De Experiencia. 516 -532- 234 7
LI
&
IN TERIOR/ EXTERIOR
DECK STAINING POWERWASHING PAVER SEALING,ETC
10% DI SCO UNT SENIORS/ VETERANS
NAUTICAL EXPRESS PAINTING & POWERWASHING CALL AL 631 433 2790
WOOD DECKS CLEANED & STAINED
VINYL HOUSES POWERWASHED
PAVER SEALING PATIOS, VINYL FENCES POWERWASHED
10%
PAINTMAN 2.0 RE SIDENT IAL/ COMMERCIAL Interior/Exterior Painting,Staining, Refinishing. Full Carpentr y Services Epox y Concrete Flooring, Concrete Pa ving Cleaning & Sealing. Doors, Mouldings Chair Rails Cabinet Refinishing Outdoor Furniture Repairs & Refinish ing $100 OFF ANY JOB of $1000 or MORE. 631 678-3733 POWER WASHING
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 631-226-2646 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.
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.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo
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.
How To Find The Right Fit For Summer Camp
Millions of adults have lots of great memories of summer camp. The right summer camp keeps kids engaged during a time of year when parents may bea all too familiar with the phrase, “I’m bored.” Finding the right summer camp can be challenging. A range of variables, including budget, availability and accessibility, must be considered before making a decision that’s right for each family. As summer camp season approaches, families can consider these tips to narrow down their options for prospective campers.
• Involve children when narrowing down your options. Kids will be the ones spending time at camp, so it’s best to include them in the selection process. Camps cater to various interests, so kids who play musical instruments might get more out of a band camp than they might out of a sports camp. Some kids also might thrive on a more structured camp, while others may benefit from one that offers a range of activities each day and lets kids choose which ones they want to participate in.
• Seek recommendations. Family members, friends and neighbors can be great resources when looking for a summer camp. That’s especially true for families who have never sent a child to camp before. Ask around about each camp you’re considering. Fellow parents
may offer insight into the structure of the camp, its atmosphere, the attitude of staff members, and additional information that might be hard to glean from an open house.
• Determine your budget. Budget is a notable variable, as some camps may cost thousands of dollars for a single session. If that’s beyond your budget, then you can narrow your focus to less expensive offerings or consider sending children for fewer weeks or even half days (when camps allow it). While it can seem as though all camps are budget busters, that’s not the case. Many local government recreation offices offer
affordable summer camps. Local churches also may offer camp options that won’t stretch parents thin. The earlier parents begin exploring their options, the more likely they may be to find a camp that won’t break the bank.
• Avoid making it all about cost. Safety should be parents’ foremost priority when choosing a summer camp. When exploring options, ask about staff and staff training. Are adults on staff, or is the camp predominantly staffed with local high school students on summer vacation? Even if a camp is staffed exclusively by adults, ask about the safety requirements necessary to be hired. That’s especially important at camps where kids will be swimming and engaging in other physical activities that can lead to accident or injury. Even free play outside in summer can be dangerous if temperatures rise and staff members are not trained to spot the signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.
Millions create lasting memories at summer camp every year. Finding the right place for kids to spend the summer requires careful consideration.
Milk Is A Simple Way To Meet Daily Dairy Needs
Drinking milk is a popular way to consume the amount of dairy recommended for a healthy diet. Milk is a rich source of 13 essential nutrients that can boost the immune system and fuel the body. Milk notably contains vitamin D and calcium, which helps maintain strong bones and can reduce the risk for a bone-thinning disease known as osteoporosis. Milk also contains vitamins A and B as well as potassium and protein. Milk helps keep teeth strong and healthy as well. The United States Department of Agriculture says that each person’s recommended intake of dairy depends on his or her age, gender, height, and other factors. Generally speaking, toddlers and children should consume between one and 2.5 cups of milk per day. Adults can benefit from about three cups per day. A cup is equal to 8 ounces. Health experts advise choosing nonfat or low-fat versions of milk and additional dairy products, as they are much more heart-healthy than full-fat options. Too much saturated fat in one’s diet can lead to high cholesterol and a greater risk for heart disease. If the idea of downing three glasses of milk is a turn-off, milk can be incorporated into recipes, such as smoothies, where its taste and texture is less prominent. Cheese and yogurt also count. Eight ounces of yogurt or 11/2 ounces of hard cheese is equivalent to one cup of milk in terms of nutrition, says a2 Milk®, a company that produces milk that may be easier on digestion. Individuals who have a lactose intolerance can choose milk products that do not contain lactose.
(While Supples Last)
