Issuu

South Bay's Neighbor

MARCH HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4th

12:00PM-4:00PM

SENIOR CITIZEN

ST. PATTY'S PARTY LUNCHEON

Join The New Serenaders at The Irish Coffee Pub for a St. Patty's Party Luncheon. Get ready to enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, drink, singing, and dancing fun. Included will be a 3-course meal with choice of entree, unlimited beer, wine, soda, dessert, coffee, tea, music, and more. The Irish Coffee Pub is located at 131 Carleton Avenue in East Islip. For more information, please call 631277-0007

SATURDAY, MARCH 7th

2:00PM-4:00PMM

TEA PARTY

At Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Avenue in Deer Park. Menu includes assorted teas, tea sandwiches and desserts. All Ages Welcome. Basket Rafﬂes, 50/50 Raﬂes, Tea Dueling! For more information, please call Natasha or Nicole at 631-242-0221

3:00PM–4:30 PM

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH LECTURE AND BOOK SIGNING

Preservation Long Island Exhibition Gallery,161 Main Street, in Cold Spring Harbor. Beyond Blue and White: The Hidden History of Delftware and the Women Behind the Iconic Ceramic, presented by author and decorative arts expert Genevieve Wheeler Brown, explores the pivotal yet often

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

overlooked role women have played in the creation, collecting, and interpretation of ceramics worldwide. Free parking in the municipal lot on the opposite side of Main Street. Advance registration required. Registration: https://preservationlongisland.org/ category/upcomingevents/

6:00PM CHEF COMPETITION

Cook your favorite entree or dessert or just come, taste and cast your vote. Admission $10. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Avenue in Lindenhurst. For more information, and to RSVP, please call 631-2268690

THURSDAY, MARCH 12th

6:00PM-9:00PM BINGO NIGHT

The Friends of the Lindenhurst Library will host a Bingo Night at American Legion, 80 Herbert Avenue in Lindenhurst. See our Facebook page ad for QR code, or pay at the door. For more information, please call 856-9528110, or kagrover1@gmail.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 14th

2:00PM

BAY SHORE-BRIGHTWATERS

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE 2026

AMVETS Post 76 in Bay Shore is heavily involved in the Bay ShoreBrightwaters St. Patrick's Day Parade, scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026. The post serves as the central hub for the event.

They will open at 12 PM and all are welcome! The parade, begins at 2:00 PM at Saxon Avenue and marches west down Main Street. The post is located at 44 W Main St. in Bay Shore. For the most up-to-date information, please call 631-665-3526

SUNDAY, MARCH 15th

2:00PM

FARMINGDALE'S ANNUAL

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE

This annual event, organized by the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce, is a popular local tradition celebrating Irish heritage, featuring pipe bands, community groups, and local businesses. The parade steps off from Northside School & proceeds south along Main Street to the Village Green in downtown Farmingdale. For more information, visit https://www. facebook.com/share/1AeSqPP4Vn/ or contact Joe Fortuna, joef@ thenuttyirishman.com, or call 516293-9700

THURSDAY, MARCH 19th

7:00PM

BAY SHORE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MARCH MEETING

The Bay Shore Historical Society will meet at the Bay ShoreBrightwaters Public Library, 1 South Country Rd., in Brightwaters. The meeting is open to the public at no charge. Refreshments will be served. Learn more at: https:// www.bayshorehistoricalsociety. org/programs-news

LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP

Carol

Bonnie Schifano

Lucille Moran Terry Rydyzynski

Noelle

Stephan Schulze

Celebrate Irish heritage and local spirit! From parades to eats, drinks, and shopping, support neighborhood businesses while enjoying festive fun. Parades are happening almost every weekend in March, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate, and keep it local.

Saturday, March 7, 2026

Kings Park – 16th Annual Parade, 12 PM. Starts at Lou Avenue and Pulaski Road, proceeds along Main Street to Old Dock Road near William T. Rogers Middle School.

Sunday, March 8, 2026

Huntington Village –92nd Annual Parade, 2 PM. Begins north of the Huntington train station along New York Avenue onto Main Street; known as Long Island’s oldest and largest parade.

Long Island St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Bay Shore & Brightwaters – 2 PM from Saxon Avenue along Main Street/Montauk Highway. St. James – 41st Annual Parade, 1 PM. From Woodlawn Avenue to Lake Avenue and the train station.

Massapequa –Massapequa Chamber 2nd Annual Parade, 11 AM along Broadway (between North Elm Street and Veterans Boulevard). running along Broadway between Jerusalem Ave. and Veterans Blvd. The event features Brian Kilmeade as the Grand Marshal.

New Hyde Park – 4th

Annual Parade, 10 AM eastbound on Jericho Turnpike ending at Fire Headquarters.

Westhampton Beach –58th Annual Parade, 12 PM along Montauk Highway near Oneck Lane.

Cutchogue – 20th Annual Parade, 2 PM, from Cox Lane down Route 25 into the village.

Sunday, March 15, 2026

Rocky Point & Miller Place – 74th Annual Parade, 1 PM. Begins at Route 25A & Harrison Avenue, ending at Broadway & North Country Road.

Bayport & Blue Point –36th Annual Parade, 11 AM along Montauk Highway.

Center Moriches – 22nd

Annual Parade, 2 PM, centered near Our Lady Queen of Apostles School. Farmingdale – Annual Parade, 2 PM. Parade steps off from Northside School & proceeds south along Main Street to the Village Green in downtown Farmingdale. Main Street will be temporarily closed for the parade. Parade Grand Marshal Brian Harty, Farmingdale Village

Administrator - Clerk/ Treasurer

Wantagh – 6th Annual Parade, 2 PM, led by the Wantagh Fire Department. The 2026 Grand Marshal is the Wantagh Fire Department.

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Brentwood – Annual Parade, 1 PM starting at Washington Avenue & Clark Street, ending at Ross Park.

Rockville Centre – 30th Annual Parade, 12 PM, beginning near North Sunrise Highway municipal parking area.

Lindenhurst – 5th Annual Parade, 12 PM. 2026 Parade Grand Marshal Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney.

Hampton Bays – Annual Parade, 11 AM, starting at the American Legion on Ponquogue Avenue.

Sunday, March 22, 2026 Ronkonkoma – 36th

Annual Parade, 2 PM, beginning at AMVETS Post 48 on Hawkins Avenue.

Patchogue Village –Annual Parade, 12 PM, through downtown along Main Street.

Glen Cove – 38th Annual Parade, 1 PM, through downtown streets and Village Square.

Babylon Village – 4th Annual Parade, 2 PM, — led by this year’s Grand Marshal, dance instructor Patti Love. Parade route from Deer Park Avenue south toward Main Street.

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Jamesport – 12th Annual Parade, 1 PM, from North Railroad & Washington Avenues to the firehouse.

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Montauk – 64th Annual Parade, 12 PM, along Edgemere Street and Main Street.

The Differences Between Weather Warnings And Watches

Weather is hard to predict. Meteorologists have many tools at their disposal to help forecast storms and other phenomena, but it is impossible to predict the weather with 100 percent accuracy.

When the weather takes a turn for the worse, the National Weather Service may issue certain notices to prepare the public. Understanding the

level of threat a notice carries can help people take appropriate action and avoid serious consequences.

The NWS uses a fourtier system to alert the public of hazards. Here’s a closer look at what each tier constitutes.

Outlook

This is the least serious weather alert. It usually means that hazardous weather may approach

in the next three to seven days. The public should monitor the situation and stay tuned for further updates.

Advisory

With an advisory, weather conditions are not overly serious but could prove inconvenient. Individuals should be cautious and prudent when preparing supplies or traveling.

Watch

During a weather watch, there is an increased risk of a hazardous weather occurrence, though the timing or location is still uncertain. This is when it is essential to practice an evacuation or preparedness plan and stock up on any lastminute supplies.

Warning

The most serious of the weather impact notifications, a warning constitutes an imminent or likely event. The weather may cause a threat to property or life. Immediate action to stay safe is necessary.

While these alerts are based on the severity of impending weather, it is important to note that the NWS will not necessarily follow the same timeline with issuing alerts. That depends on how fast a weather situation develops. If there is time, an advisory, then a watch and then a warning may be issued. However, if a storm moves in rapidly, only a warning may be issued. People always should pay attention to weather notices so they can be prepared should severe weather be in the forecast.

Bringing History To Life

The Dangers Of Dented Cans

Fourth grade students at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in the West Babylon School District took part in a hands-on day of learning, thanks to a special visit from Journeys Into American Indian Territory. During the interactive program, students learned about Native American history, culture and traditions through engaging presentations and activities. The experience brought social studies lessons to life, allowing students to deepen their understanding of Indigenous peoples and their way of life. Through demonstrations, artifacts and storytelling, fourth graders explored how Native Americans lived,

worked and contributed to American history. The visit provided a meaningful opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences. The program aligns with fourth grade social studies curriculum standards and supports the district’s commitment to providing diverse, inclusive educational experiences.

Dented cans have long been a source of confusion and concern for shoppers. They may be discounted and seem like a good deal, but some of those dented cans may not be safe to eat. Damaged cans may be harboring food that contains botulism and other toxins. According to the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Services, if a can of food has a small dent but is otherwise in good shape, the food should be safe to eat. However, deeply dented cans should be discarded. Dented cans of food that are safe will have smooth dents or dents that are not on the seams of the can. A person should avoid sharp dents, dents in the seam and dents where the seam and the can meet. In addition, if the can is bulging or swollen, it should be avoided. Dents in a seam can let in air and bacteria. Deep dents may have left pinholes, again where bacteria can enter.

Lenten Season In The Orthodox Church

(English Language Services)

We invite you to worship with us during Great Lent at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 369 Green Avenue, East Meadow. The more ancient form of the liturgy, the Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great, is celebrated at 9:30 AM (Hours at 9:00 AM) every Lenten Sunday

(through March 29 this year). Each of the Sundays of Great Lent has its own special theme, which is reflected in the New Testament readings and hymns of that day, as well as the sermon. All services are conducted in English. A vegan coffee hour follows the Sunday Divine Liturgy

during Great Lent. Services are also streamed on https:// www.facebook.com/htocem. The full liturgical schedule for Great Lent can be found on the parish website’s calendar at www.htocem. org.

For more information, contact us at 516-483-3649 or htocem@gmail.com.

New York Blood Center Declares Blood Emergency

Help Needed - @ New York Blood Center has issued a blood emergency. The blood supply has dropped from 5 days to a 2-3 day supply, and 1-2 day supply of type O; NYBC warns this could signal more severe shortages in the weeks ahead. Please sign up to donate at a convenient donation location near you: smarturl.it/NYBC_Urgent

Fourth grade students at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in the West Babylon School District participated in a lesson on Native American history. Photo courtesy of West Babylon School District

Babylon And Huntington Winter Senior Advocate Schedules

Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is pleased to inform Babylon and Huntington residents about the local Suffolk County Office for the Aging Winter 2026 Senior Advocate Schedule. Senior advocates are County representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to appropriate community agencies.

“It is so important for us to provide our senior citizens with the assistance and information they need

in ways that are most convenient to them. These visits allow our seniors to connect with our County’s senior advocates right in their own communities,” said Legislator Donnelly. “I hope all those interested in the services that the Suffolk County Office for the Aging provides will take advantage of this opportunity.”

This winter, Senior Advocates will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Babylon:

• Deer Park Library, 44 Lake Avenue, Deer Park: Friday, March 20, 8:30 am – 11:30 am

• North Amityville Senior

Nutrition Center, 48-C Cedar Road, Amityville: Wednesday, March 18, 10 am – 1 pm

• Rainbow Senior Center, 293 Buffalo Avenue, Lindenhurst: Wednesday, March 4, 8:30 am – 11 am

• Tanner Park Senior Center, 2 Tanner Park, Copiague: Wednesday, March 11, 8:30 am – 2 pm

• Spangle Drive Senior Center, 4385 Spangle Drive, North Babylon: Tuesday, March 24, 12 pm – 3 pm

• West Babylon Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon: Thursday, March 26, 10 am – 12 pm

• Wyandanch Senior Nutrition Center, 28 Wyandanch Avenue, Wyandanch: Wednesday, March 25, 10 am – 1 pm

In Huntington, they will be visiting the following:

• Huntington Senior Nutrition Center, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington: Wednesday, March 18, 8:30 am – 2 pm

• Paumanack Village 5 & 6, 100 Adriatic Drive, Melville: Thursday, March 26, 8:30 am – 12 pm; residents only Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare

Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare, answer questions and make recommendations and referrals. For more information about available services or directions to any of these locations, please call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at (631) 853-8200.

“For more than three decades, the Suffolk County Office for the Aging has been providing full and trouble-free access to critical services,” Donnelly said. “I am glad to see their great professional community

Grief And Loss Peer-Led Support Group

First Thursday Of Every Month, 6:30 P.M. To 7:30 P.M.

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

outreach program continue and hope that every senior resident will make full use of it.”

# # #

Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly represents the 17th Legislative District, which includes parts of Baywood, Deer Park, Dix Hills, Huntington, Melville, North Babylon, North Bay Shore and South Huntington. He is a member of the Budget & Finance, Fire, Rescue, EMS & Preparedness, Public Safety, Seniors & Human Services and Ways & Means committees of the Suffolk County Legislature.

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.

Town Of Babylon Honors P.S. I Love You Day With Founders

Town Officials, DiPalma Sisters, First Responders, And School Leaders Unite To Raise Mental Health Awareness

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Town of Babylon officials joined P.S. I Love You Day founders Brooke and Jaimie DiPalma, along with local educators, first responders, and community members, for a press conference recognizing P.S. I Love You Day and highlighting the importance of mental health awareness.

After losing their father to suicide, the DiPalma sisters created P.S. I Love You Day, now observed nationally on the second Friday of February each year. The initiative’s mission— to promote mental health awareness, reduce bullying, and strengthen suicide prevention through education and compassion—continues to resonate with communities nationwide.

The event featured remarks from Babylon Town Councilman Terence McSweeney, Brooke and Jaimie DiPalma, and local school officials. In a show of unity and support, Town of Babylon officials, the DiPalma sisters, school administrators and faculty, first responders, and residents in attendance wore purple, the signature color of P.S. I Love You Day, and participated in a group photo inside the Babylon Town Hall Board Room.

To further demonstrate solidarity, the cupola atop Babylon Town Hall and the building’s columns were illuminated in purple in honor of P.S. I Love You Day and those the initiative seeks to support.

Town of Babylon officials joined students, first responders and community leaders in wearing purple and holding P.S. I Love You Day hearts to show support for mental health awareness and anti-bullying efforts throughout the community.

Town of Babylon council members, the DiPalma sisters and community partners gathered with educators, first responders and residents at Babylon Town Hall to honor P.S. I Love You Day and reinforce the message that “You Are Not Alone.”

Town of Babylon officials and the founders of P.S. I Love You Day (Jaimie DiPalma at the podium) address the community at Babylon Town Hall, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, kindness and suicide prevention. The Town’s Board Room was illuminated in purple in solidarity with the national day of awareness.

Town Of Babylon Celebrates Success Of Green Horizons 2.0 Sustainability Fair

The Town of Babylon recently hosted Green Horizons 2.0: Babylon’s second annual Sustainability Fair, bringing together residents, environmental advocates, and community partners for an afternoon of education, engagement, and collaboration focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Organized by Sustainability Director, Jassi Anand, the event featured presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities centered on waste reduction, recycling, composting, and native gardening. Attendees had the opportunity to learn practical strategies for reducing their environmental footprint in their own homes while connecting with local and regional experts.

Councilman DuWayne Gregory praised the event and its impact on the community.

“Green Horizons 2.0 demonstrates our Town’s strong commitment to protecting the environment and empowering our residents with the knowledge and tools they need to live more sustainably,” Councilman Gregory said. “By working together with our partners and sponsors, we are helping to build a healthier and more resilient future for Babylon.”

Also among the guest speakers was Suffolk County Legislature Minority Leader Jason Richberg, who joined Town officials and community partners in supporting the event’s mission.

Supervisor Rich Schaffer and the members of the Town Board were recognized for their continued leadership in advancing environmentally responsible initiatives and policies throughout the Town.

Daniel Ricci from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) opened the event with an overview of Babylon’s waste stream to explain what happens to our trash after it is picked up from the curb, the impacts and actions items residents can practice to mindfully dispose of their waste correctly.

Marjorie Spitz, cofounder of the LI Organics Initiative spoke about the role residents can play in reducing food waste and keeping organics out of the waste stream through prevention and supportive backyard composting programs.

The Green Homes backyard composting and rain barrel program was showcased to boost sales on their website — www. babylon.compostersale.com with a pickup date of May

2nd at the Town’s annual Earth Day event taking place at Geiger Park in Deer Park.

“What if we didn’t throw our food away?” Spitz said. “Food scraps are a resource—and with tools like backyard composters and Compost Coaches, it’s easier than people think to take action at home by purchasing discounted equipment for only $65 and doing your part.”

“You can then take the compost you’ve created and feed it to your yards to grow vegetables and native plants. This will further support local pollinators, conserve water, and help restore Long Island’s endangered ecosystems” said Ms. Anand.

Attendees took home free native plant seeds from ReWild to start growing indoors now and received custom landscape design recommendations for their yards.

“Winters Bros., A WM Company was proud to sponsor this year’s Green Horizons sustainability fair,” said Dan Schaefer, public affairs manager for Winters Bros. “Each day, we are responsible for the collection and proper disposal of all commercial waste in the Town of Babylon in addition to offering recycling services. We thank Supervisor Rich Schaffer, the Town Board and their hardworking employees

for their partnership in protecting our local environment.”

Sponsor Reworld also highlighted the importance of community engagement.

“Events like Green Horizons 2.0 bring sustainability out of the abstract and into everyday life,” said Maureen Early, lead community relations specialist for Reworld. “We’re proud to partner with the Town of Babylon to help residents better understand how waste is responsibly managed at our local Reworld facility, while also empowering families

with simple tools to reduce waste and support a cleaner Long Island.”

In addition to Winters Bros. and Reworld, the Town thanks all participating sponsors, presenters, and stakeholder partners for their dedication and ongoing support, including state and regional agencies, environmental organizations, and community groups including Green Homes, LI Clean Energy Hub, Island Harvest, LI Organics Council, CCE-Suffolk Horticulture, Earth Law Center, Drive Electric LI,

Plant Up, Creating Healthy Schools & Communities,and more. The healthy food was catered by the Green Fork in Babylon Village, made with organic and fresh ingredients.

Green Horizons 2.0 reflects the Town of Babylon’s continued commitment to environmental education, conservation, and community engagement. Through events like this, the Town remains focused on promoting sustainable practices and protecting Long Island’s natural resources for future generations to come.

West Babylon Public Library

211 Route 109

West Babylon (631) 669-5445

www.wbpl.us

Nancy Evans, Director ***

YOGA

Wednesdays: March 4-25

6-7 pm

Non-refundable/transferable fee for the 4-week February sessions: $8.

PAINT NIGHT: SPRING STROLL

Thursday, March 5, 6:45-8:30 pm

Join us and paint your very own masterpiece. Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.

ZUMBA

Fridays: March 6-27

10:15-11:15 am

Non-refundable fee for the 4-week February sessions: $8

FRIDAY FLICKS

Movies begin at 1 pm

Friday, March 6: Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere (PG-13, 119 min)

THE DAY TRIPPERS: BEETLES TRIBUTE BAND

Saturday, March 7, 1-3 pm

Since 2021, The Day Trippers have been wowing audiences across Long Island and NYC with their high-energy tribute to The Beatles’ greatest hits. Come experience the music that changed the world.

USING AI (ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE) IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Monday, March 9, 7-8:30 pm

Curious about AI? Discover simple, everyday ways artificial intelligence can help you save time, stay organized, and boost creativity.

NYBC-BLOOD DRIVE

Monday, March 10, 11:30 am-4 pm

Please come show your support and donate blood with the New York Blood Center. No registration required.

MEDICAID ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE

Wednesday, March 11, 10 am-1:30 pm

Sign up is first-come, firstserved and free of charge. For more information, call the Nassau Suffolk Hospital Council at 631-435-3000.

SPRING TOTE KIT (March 12-17)

Join Shirley Ruby virtually to make a pretty spring tote. Non-refundable/transferable program fee: $5.

BUSY PERSON’S BOOK GROUP

Thursday, March 12, 7-8:30 pm Horse by Geraldine Brooks.

Daylight Saving Time Begins March 8, 2026

Residents are reminded that Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Clocks should be set one hour ahead before going to bed on Saturday night, as the change takes effect at 2:00 a.m. Sunday morning.

The start of Daylight Saving Time brings longer daylight hours in the evening, providing more

opportunities for outdoor activities and community events. While many electronic devices update automatically, residents are encouraged to manually adjust clocks on appliances, vehicles, and other nondigital devices. Officials also remind the public to use the time change as an opportunity

to check household safety measures, including testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms and replacing batteries as needed.

Daylight Saving Time will remain in effect until Sunday, November 1, 2026, when clocks will be set back one hour.

Long Island State Parks Celebrates Women’s History Month

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to celebrate Women’s History Month at Long Island State Parks. This month-long celebration highlights several notable women in history and their accomplishments through informative posters and pictures. We invite you to visit us to learn more about these great women and their impact on history and culture.

Displays and programs throughout the month of March are at the following Long Island State Park locations:

Nissequogue River State Park – Charles & Helen Reichert Administration Building, Kings Park

Display open daily 8:00am – 4:00pm, for more information call 631-2694927

Jones Beach State Park, Administration Building, Wantagh

Display open daily 7:00am – 4:30pm, for information call 516-7851600

Hempstead Lake State Park Environmental Education and Resiliency Center, West Hempstead Open daily 9:00am –4:00pm, for information call 516-766-1029

• Steeped in Self Care (Adult program, 18+), Saturday, March 14, 2026, 1:30pm – 3:00pm

o Sip, blend, and relax in this hands-on selfcare class celebrating Women’s History Month. Create your own customloose leaf tea blends for stress relief and essential oil roller balls to help ease tension headaches. Learn how tea has long brought women together for comfort, care, and community. Come fill your cup, roll away the stress, and steep yourself in a little history.

• Paths of Presence: Women, Wilderness, and Walking with Intention

(Adult Program, 18+), Saturday, March 21, 2026, 11:00am – 1:00pm

o Join us at Hempstead Lake State Park for a Women’s History Month Walk celebrating women on the trails! Learn about the history of women’s hiking while practicing simple nature meditation to experience the benefits of being outdoors.

Programs are $4.00 per person upon arrival. No parking fee is in effect. Each person in your party needs a ticket. Space is limited. If you are unable to keep your reservation, please cancel so others may have the opportunity to attend the program. Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes early. We will meet in the Environmental Education and Resiliency Center in Field 1 of Hempstead Lake State Park. To register: https://www.eventbrite. com/o/hempstead-lakestate-park-environmentaleducationand-resiliencycenter-38733458463

Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center-West End 2, Wantagh

Display open daily 9:00am - 4:30pm, for information call 516-8098222

• Storytime: Women’s History Month (Children 0-8; FREE program), Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 11:00am – 12:00pm

o To celebrate Women’s History Month, join our educator and read exciting tales of women in science!

• Women Nature Writers (All ages; FREE program), Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11:00am – 12:30pm

o Join one of our educators at this free event to celebrate Women’s History Month by learning about one of history’s most talented nature writers and practice writing your very own piece inspired by our local environment.

To register: www. jonesbeachenc.org/

programs

Additionally, there will be specially themed lecture programs and workshops being offered through our Long Island State Parks Environmental Education Department: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Oakdale

• Recognizing Women’s Right to Vote in NY State, Sunday, April 12, 2026, 1:30pm – 3:00pm

o On November 6, 1917, women won the right to vote in NY State. Join us for this special America250 program to hear Town of Islip Historian George Munkenbeck share the history of local Long Island suffragists. Also on display will be a travelling exhibit provided by the Long Island Library Resources Council. Nissequogue River State Park, Kings Park

• Revolution Remedies, Saturday, March 28, 2026, 10:30am – 12:00pm

o Explore the overlooked medical work of women during the American Revolution. We’ll highlight the nurses, caregivers, Indigenous healers, and enslaved African women whose herbal knowledge, improvised remedies, and daily labor sustained the Continental Army. Through a handson activity, visitors will discover how ordinary women used extraordinary ingenuity to keep a nation alive. Programs are $4.00 per person upon arrival. No parking fee is in effect. Each person in your party needs a ticket. Space is limited. If you are unable to keep your reservation, please cancel so others may have the opportunity to attend the program. Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

To register: www.eventbrite. com/o/nys-parks-longisland-environmentaleducation-33908178297