Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space that reduced her monthly energy costs. Now, her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.
Reduce your energy costs. Get a free business energy assessment. psegliny.com/businessassessment *Incentives, grants, and rebates will vary with every project.
Bob Scarito
Michael Scarito
Bob Scarito Licensed Broker Associate
Michael Scarito Licensed Broker Associate
With bright tulips being planted and cheerful seasonal décor on the shelves in local shops, we’re reminded that spring is just weeks away and Easter is close behind. We hope you explore and enjoy the contents of this issue - what started as a seasonal publication has blossomed into a monthly magazine, made possible by the loyalty and continued support of our readers and we are grateful for the role you play in our growth. We welcome your feedback, story ideas, and advertising inquiries - contact us today at 631.226.2636!
Smithtown High Schools Awarded AP excellence
Smithtown High School East and West have both earned Gold-level recognition on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll, a distinction awarded to just 1,169 high schools nationwide for outstanding AP programs.
This honor highlights the schools’ commitment to expanding access to rigorous coursework while supporting student success. Only 36% of eligible high schools across the country received AP Honor Roll recognition this year— making this achievement even more meaningful.
“These AP results stand as a tribute to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, department directors, and district leadership,” said High School East Principal, Paul McNeil. “We continue to utilize achievement data to inform instruction and improve learning for our students. Our teachers’ commitment to excellence empowers our students to reach their full potential and achieve
continued success.”
High School West Principal William Holl was equally proud of the accomplishment. “We are incredibly proud to be recognized as an AP School Honor Roll Gold Tier school,” he said. “This achievement reflects
Tea has been enjoyed as a beverage for thousands of years and has featured prominently in many cultures during that time. The cultural practice of drinking tea is believed to have originated in ancient China. Although there are many different types of tea, the World Tea Council says black tea is the most consumed tea across the globe, comprising around 75 percent of total tea consumption. The most popular type of black tea is Assam tea, which is grown in India. The second-most widely consumed tea is green tea, which accounts for approximately 20 percent of total tea consumption.
the hard work of our students and the dedication of our teachers in creating a culture where college-level coursework is accessible and successful. It is a testament to our school community’s commitment to preparing students for rigorous academic environments."
Spring Planting Pointers
Manypeople view spring as a season of rejuvenation. That renewal may be somewhat metaphorical for human beings, but it’s literal for lawns and gardens that begin to grow anew as temperatures rise and hours of daylight increase in spring.
Each spring presents an opportunity for homeowners to get back outside and tend to their gardens. As the temperatures rise, homeowners can consider these spring planning pointers to ensure their landscapes look lush and full in the months ahead.
• Start with the soil. Soil can serve as the starting point each spring. Winter can take its toll on a garden and even overwhelm the area with debris over the colder months. Clear rocks and other debris from the area before loosening the soil. The Farmer’s Almanac recommends loosening soil to a depth of at least eight inches if planting a new garden. An existing
raised gardens can help homeowners in colder climates dry out and warm up wet, cold soils more quickly. Homeowners in such regions also can cover their beds with black plastic or cardboard prior to planting. Doing so can protect the beds from lateseason snow and spring rains and also helps to overcome erosion.
center before planting. Such a consultation can be especially useful for homeowners planting a new garden. Landscapers and garden center professionals will know which plants work in the local climate.
garden may only need to be loosened to a depth of around six inches, after which homeowners can mix compost into the soil in early spring. Compost is organic matter that provides nutrients and helps to build strong plant roots.
• Consider a raised garden in colder climates. The Farmer’s Almanac notes
• Take soil temperatures. Unpredictable weather is among the noticeable effects of climate change in recent years. That lack of predictability can make spring planting a little more tricky than it once was. Experts note that soil temperatures around 50 F are best for cool-season crops, while soil should be 60 F or warmer when planting warm-weather plants such as tomatoes.
• Work with a garden center to identify what to plant. The right plants for one region may not be ideal for another, so homeowners are urged to work with a local landscaper or garden
• Consider planting vegetables in the spring. Various garden experts note that spring is an ideal time to plant a vegetable garden. If planted at the right time, a vegetable garden can save homeowners money on their grocery bills and provide a season’s worth of fresh veggies. Lettuce and spinach are sun- and shade-friendly vegetables, which can make them good options for a spring garden. Cool-season root vegetables, which include beets, carrots and swiss chard, are some other notable veggies that can thrive in early spring. Spring is a season of rejuvenation for gardens. That’s even more true when homeowners consider some conventional planting wisdom in early spring.
7 Activities To Commemorate
The Spring Equinox
Thebeginning of spring is cause for celebration. In many areas of the world, the start of spring marks the end of cold temperatures and hours spent indoors, a shift in conditions that is welcomed by millions each year. The first day of spring or spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere will occur on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 10:46 a.m. ET. Spring is a time of rebirth when flowers and trees bloom anew and animals bear new young. Spring is an exciting and busy time, and one that people can commemorate in many unique ways. Here are seven ideas to usher in spring this March.
1. Fill a home or business with flowers. Collect some early tulip or daffodil blooms and place them around the house. Offer bouquets of dandelions to children or weave them into flower crowns.
2. Spend time in nature. It’s time to get outside, and there is no better time to do so than the beginning of spring. Soak up the sun and temperate climate, which can be good for your physical and mental well-being.
3. Visit a loved one. Bring some sunshine to an elderly relative by visiting with him or her. Take a stroll outside or sit on a bench and enjoy a picnic.
4. Prepare the garden by cleaning out weeds and tilling the soil. Some early spring preparation ensures everything will be ready when planting time arrives.
5. Prepare an outdoor feast. Whether it’s a picnic or a barbecue, serve up a warm-weather feast with salads, sandwiches and other dishes that are normally served outdoors.
6. Sow some seeds. Encourage each member of your household to pick a favorite plant or flower and sow it in celebration of the first day of spring. It’s possible to make a special spring garden with perennials that will bloom each year.
7. Make spring-related crafts. Colorful wreaths, centerpieces and garlands can bring some of the natural wonders of spring indoors. The first day of spring is an opportunity to enjoy what makes the season so special. Celebrate the new season with plenty of creative ideas.
As
Welcome to this fully updated Farm Ranch set on .69 acre in Fort Salonga. Spacious primary suite with an ensuite bath complete with a jacuzzi tub, plus a second primary suite with its own private ensuite. Grand dining room, updated eat-in kitchen. Heated saltwater in-ground pool with three fountains. The den offers a gas fireplace and sliders to the yard. Upper-level spacious loft, has two bedrooms, and a Jack-and-Jill bath. $1,375,000 Contact Lynn Witz
This fully rebuilt ranch in 2026 checks every box—open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, stunning quartz kitchen counters, 2 baths, and all-new systems for worry-free living. Just minutes to Bay Park, shopping, and the LIRR for an easy NYC commute. $899,000 Contact Adele Rosenberg and Loretta Peluso
Lovely Villa Set in a gated community, with lake & 18th fairway views. Huge Living room, chefs kitchen with granite counters, Family room with built-in entertainment unit with gas fireplace. Fantastic Club house, pool, tennis, private golf course. $799,000 Contact Lynn Witz and Traci Gazzo
Inviting 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Splanchstyle home. Set on .29 acrest. Updated eat-in kitchen and spacious den with sliders to the yard. The upper level offers well-sized bedrooms, including a primary suite with an updated primary bath. Outside, enjoy an in-ground pool. $799,000 Contact Lynn Witz and Traci Gazzo
Custom-designed modern home to be built — a dream come true for boating enthusiasts. There’s still time to customize the interior. Included an approved boat lift and a new 60-foot marinegrade vinyl plank bulkhead. Five bedrooms and 3.5 baths. An elevator serves all three levels $1,699,000 Contact Adele Rosenberg and Loretta Peluso
Beautifully landscaped half-acre in the sought-after Commack’s Candy section. The true chef’s kitchen features ample counter space for meal prep and overlooks the expansive backyard, complete with sliders leading to the deck and paver patio. You can enjoy summer BBQs and swimming in the semi in-ground pool. $949,000 contact Lynn Witz Sold for Over Ask!
Irish Soda Bread Makes The Perfect St. Patrick’s Day Appetizer
Irish cuisine may not be as widely recognizable or familiar across North America as Chinese, Italian or Mexican fare. But that doesn’t mean Irish food lacks fans and flavor. As the world prepares to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on or around March 17, individuals who want to include some popular Irish fare in their festivities won’t want to exclude this recipe for “Irish Soda Bread” from AllRecipes.com.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.
2. Mix flour, softened margarine, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly. Form dough into a round and place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Combine melted butter with 1⁄4 cup buttermilk in a small bowl; brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an ‘X’ into the top of the loaf.
4. Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness after 30 minutes. You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes.
Irish Soda Bread
Yields 1 1⁄2 loaf (20 servings)
Get Ready For Summer 2026: See Who's Coming To Jones Beach Theater This Year
Although winter is still here, many of us are already anticipating the arrival of spring and even the warmth and leisure of summer. As we envision long summer evenings spent around a crackling campfire, strolling along sandy shores, or enjoying time by the pool, our thoughts may turn to other experiences that make the summer season so memorable. Among these, live music holds a special allure.
The recent modernization of Northwell at Jones Beach Theater - completed in 2024 - is the largest investment in the theater’s history – a collaboration between New York State Parks and Live Nation, across three years
of planning and nearly two years of construction. A robust series of improvements and upgrades were integrated into the venue's original design.
Fans can enjoy an enhanced experience thanks to the grand new entrance for quicker entry, 7,000+ seats which have been upgraded and new premium seating experiences that have been added. Plus, there are 20% more restrooms and 30% more food and beverage outlets - there is even a new food and beverage plaza the size of a football field with seating, allowing you to sit back and relax before the show! Also, new tech upgrades include state-of-the-art LED screens
for enhanced views of performers and more.
With that in mind, here are a selection of some of the most highly anticipated concerts scheduled at the esteemed Jones Beach Theater this year, offering an opportunity to experience worldclass performances at a remarkable, local venue.
Riley Green Saturday, June 20
James Taylor Tuesday, June 23
Jack Johnson Sunday, June 28
Santana & The Doobie Brothers Thursday, July 2
Train Saturday, July 18
Dave Matthews Band Tuesday, July 21
Tim McGraw Friday, July 24
Rod Stewart Friday, July 31
Lynyrd Skynyrd x Foreigner Friday, August 21
The Fray Saturday, August 22
Chris Stapleton Wednesday, August 23
Breaking Benjamin Saturday, September 5
Notable Events About Spring
St.Spring is widely seen as a season of rejuvenation. Warmer post-winter air lifts spirits, and a variety of popular events add to the festive feel of this cherished time of year.
• St. Patrick’s Day:
Although the holiday falls at the tail end of winter, celebrations often fill the month of March. Many communities host parades and lively gatherings, with Irish pubs offering music and traditional fare to help usher in spring.
• March Madness: Each March, the 68-team NCAA basketball tournament captivates
fans with buzzer beaters, upsets and busted brackets as games unfold from mid-March into early April.
• Major League Baseball Opening Day: A classic sign of early spring, Opening Day represents fresh starts, as fans return to stadiums believing every team has a chance at success.
• Spring flower festivals: Held mainly between mid-March and mid-April, these festivals showcase vibrant blooms and highlight the beauty that defines the season.
• Kentucky Derby: Known as the “Run for the Roses,” the first leg of the Triple Crown takes place in early May at Churchill Downs, drawing massive crowds, festive fashion and timeless tradition.
• Memorial Day weekend: While honoring U.S. military members who died in service, the weekend also brings family gatherings, barbecues and marks the unofficial start of summer in many communities.
Together, these events help explain why spring remains such a special and enjoyable season.
Locales With Considerable Irish American Populations
Patrick’s Day celebrations are lively and green-tinted affairs filled with music, dancing, food, and signature beverages like Guinness stout and Irish coffee. The phrase “everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day” has a lot of truth to it, as people from all walks of life enjoy having a little fun each year on March 17. But that fun might be amped up a little in cities with large populations of people who trace their ancestry to the Emerald Isle and locales where staples of life in Ireland are particularly accessible.
A local Irish pub tends to be a fun place to spend St. Patrick’s Day regardless of where the establishment is located, but in 2023 LawnStarter examined a wide range of variables in an effort to identify the most Irish cities in the United States. After gathering publicly available data that ranged from a city’s Irish population to its number of Irish dance schools to the amount of Irish pubs open within city limits, the team at LawnStarter came up with this list of the “Most Irish” cities in the U.S. The list is unofficial and intended to entertain as much as inform, but those looking to spend St. Patrick’s Day in a locale with a notably Irish feel can consider a visit to any of these cities:
1. New York, NY
2. Chicago, IL
3. Boston, MA
4. Philadelphia, PA
5. San Francisco, CA
6. Pittsburgh, PA
7. Denver, CO
8. San Diego, CA
9. Seattle, WA
10. Omaha, NE
Celebrants looking for cities where St. Patrick’s Day is a particularly big deal can consider a visit to these locales that LawnStarter identified as having the most St. Patrick’s Day events:
1. Chicago, IL
2. Boston, MA
3. Denver, CO
4. New York, NY
5. San Diego, CA
If it’s Irish dance performances you’re looking for, consider these cities, which LawnStarter found are home to more schools of Irish
dance than other locales in the U.S.:
1. New York, NY
2. Los Angeles, CA
3. Chicago, IL
4. Orlando, FL (tie)
4. San Diego, CA (tie)
4. San Francisco, CA (tie)
There’s much fun to be had on St. Patrick’s Day. And spending the day in certain locales may be even more amusing and enjoyable.
Fish And Chips Is An Ideal Meal Throughout Lent
is an important time of year for Christians across the globe. Lent is a season of sacrifice, and many practicing Christians abstain from consuming flesh meat on Fridays in the weeks preceding Easter. Abstaining from meat on Fridays throughout Lent does not require devoted Christians to avoid flavor. In fact, there are many flavorful non-meat dishes for Christians to choose from each Friday during Lent. One particularly flavorful option is this recipe for "Gourmet Fish and Chips" from Lines+Angles. In 2026, Lent is a 40-day (plus Sundays) season lasting 46 calendar days, beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 18th, 2026, and ending at sundown on Holy Thursday, April 2nd, 2026
Directions:
1. For the mushy peas: Combine the peas with the baking soda in a large saucepan. Cover with 8" water. Cover and chill overnight.
2. The next day, drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
3. Return the peas to a large saucepan and cover with about 0.5" water. Bring to a boil over a high heat before reducing to a simmer until tender to the bite, about 30 to 40 minutes; skim away any froth that rises to the surface and edges.
Gourmet Fish And Chips
Makes 4 servings
For the mushy peas:
12 ounces green dried peas, split
1 tablespoon baking soda
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Salt
Freshly ground black peppercorns
For the fries:
2 1/4 lbs. white potatoes, peeled
8 cups vegetable oil, for deep frying
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon onion powder or onion salt
For the fish:
4 large white fish fillets, approximately 2 lbs., such as cod or haddock, skinless, pin-boned
1 cup flour
1 large egg, beaten
12 fluid ounces beer, chilled
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
To serve:
2 gherkins pickles, sliced lengthwise
2 lemons
Sprig curly parsley
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and set aside until ready to serve.
5. For the chips/fries: Cut the potatoes into fries. Submerge in a large bowl of water as you heat the oil.
6. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan to 285 F; use a thermometer to accurately measure the temperature.
7. Remove the potatoes from the water and pat dry with a paper towel. Place in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle
Fish And Chips Is An Ideal Meal Throughout Lent
over the corn starch, onion powder and some salt, tossing well to combine.
8. Deep-fry the potatoes until soft and starting to color, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towel and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
9. Increase the temperature of the oil to 355 F. Working in two batches, return the fries to the oil and fry until goldenbrown and crisp all over.
10. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm; reserve the oil.
11. For the fish: Return the frying oil to 355 F; use a kitchen thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature.
12. In the meantime, season the fish with salt and pepper.
13. Combine the flour, egg, 1 teaspoon salt, and some freshly ground black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk briefly to combine before slowly whisking in enough of the beer to make a thick, smooth batter.
14. Working one by one, drop the fish fillets into the batter, turning to coat evenly.
15. Let the excess batter drip off the fish before carefully lowering into the hot oil. Deep-fry until golden-brown and crisp, about 4 minutes. Remove from the hot oil and drain on paper towel, covering loosely with aluminum foil.
16. Repeat steps 14 and 15 for the remaining fish.
17. Reheat the fries in the hot oil if needed, draining well.
18. To serve: Divide the mushy peas between ramekins and place on plates. Divide the fries into individual serving baskets and arrange next to the fish on the plates.
19. Cut the lemons in half, scoring a zig-zag pattern into them with a paring knife. Serve alongside the fish and fries, garnishing the fish with gherkin slices and some parsley sprigs
The Spring Equinox
There’s
much to celebrate on the Spring Equinox, which is also referred to as the “Vernal Equinox” or the “March Equinox” and marks the official beginning of spring, a season many people associate with rejuvenation and longer hours of daylight. One unusual aspect of the equinoxes (the Autumnal Equinox in September ushers in the beginning of fall) is these days feature the fastest sunsets and sunrises of the year. According to Earthsky.org, this phenomenon occurs because the sun rises due east and sets due west on the equinoxes, which means the setting sun hits the horizon at its steepest possible angle. That steep angle leads to a very short sunrise and sunset on the equinoxes. Traditionally, we celebrate the first day of spring on March 21, but astronomers and calendar manufacturers alike now say that the spring season starts on March 20 in all time zones in North America.
Warm Up With Irish Stew This St. Patrick’s Day
SIrish Guinness Stew With Lamb
Makes 6 servings
8 cups lamb or beef stock; divided 1 cup pearl barley
3 lbs. lamb shoulder, cubed Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 3 tablespoons oil 1⁄2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour 4 stalks of celery, washed, trimmed and chopped 2 large yellow onions, peeled and chopped 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped 12 fluid ounces Guinness stout
bunch fresh parsley 1 bunch fresh thyme 1 bunch fresh rosemary 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 teaspoons cornstarch 4 teaspoons water
t. Patrick’s Day is known for revelry. A festive atmosphere prevails each March 17, and people from all walks of life and genealogical backgrounds take part in festivities that have become celebrations of Irish culture. Cuisine is a big part of Irish culture, even if it’s not the first thing people think of when pondering the Emerald Isle. This St. Patrick’s Day, celebrants can bring a touch of Irish cuisine to their celebrations by preparing the following recipe for “Irish Guinness Stew with Lamb” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, bring 3 cups of stock to a boil; add barley. Reduce heat to low and gently simmer for 20 minutes. Set aside.
2. Meanwhile, pat the meat dry with paper towels. Season the meat with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a 6 quart Dutch oven. Brown the meat on all sides over medium high heat before removing it from the pot using a slotted spoon. Sprinkle flour over it, shaking off any excess; set aside.
3. Add the celery, onions, garlic and carrots to the pot and saute until onions are soft and translucent. Add Guinness and deglaze the pot, scraping up all the caramelized bits on the bottom and sides of the pan.
4. Chop the leaves of the parsley, reserving the stems. Tie the parsley stems and several sprigs of thyme and rosemary into a bundle; drop the bundle into the pot. Chop the remaining thyme and rosemary; set chopped herbs aside.
5. Return the meat to the pot. Add the potatoes, barley and enough stock to cover the meat and vegetables. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to very low and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until meat is fork tender. Stir occasionally, adding remaining stock as necessary.
6. Check seasoning; adjust to taste. Stir in chopped parsley, thyme and rosemary. Mix cornstarch in water and stir. Add to stew, stirring to incorporate. Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes or until stew thickens. Ladle into bowls. Serve with crusty bread and of course more Guinness if desired.
Unleavened Bread The Foundation Of Passover Cooking
Passover is a Jewish celebration and one of the religion’s most sacred and widely observed holidays. Passover commemorates the Biblical story of the Israelites’ escape from 400 years of slavery in Egypt. In 2026, Passover takes place at sundown on Wednesday, Apr 1, 2026 – Thursday, Apr 9, 2026 .
Pesach, as Passover is known in Hebrew, includes all kinds of ceremonial
foods. The Passover seder plate showcases specific items that relate to both the suffering and emancipation of the Jewish people. Throughout Passover, the faithful abstain from any leavened bread products. According to Exodus 12:8: “They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted on the fire; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat.” Jews also are to remove all leaven (hametz) from their homes and eat unleavened bread
Perfect Matzah Balls (Kneidlach)
Yields 4 balls per each 1⁄4 cup of matzah meal (Meat, Pareve)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
2 tablespoons oil or chicken fat
2 tablespoons soup stock or water
1⁄2 cup matzah meal
1 teaspoon salt
1 quart of salted water or chicken soup, for cooking
Directions:
for an additional seven days. Apart from being commanded by God, it is believed unleavened bread became traditional Passover food because the Jewish people departed Egypt in haste without time to let bread rise. Furthermore, some say God also associated leavened bread with sin.
If there is one ingredient Passover celebrants may find challenging to work with during the holiday,
it could be unleavened bread. Typically matzoh/ matzah is substituted for other yeasted breads this time of year. One place matzoh really shines, though, is in matzoh balls for use in soups or side dishes. A dumpling of sorts, matzoh balls are tasty and filling, and ideal for meals throughout Passover. Try this recipe for “Perfect Matzah Balls (Kneidlach)” courtesy of Chabad.org’s Kosher Cooking.
1. Beat eggs slightly with fork. Add other ingredients, except matzah meal, and mix. Add matzah meal gradually until thick. Stir. Refrigerate for 20 minutes in covered bowl.
2. Wet hands and form into balls. Drop into bubbling chicken soup or into a large wide pot into which 1 quart of water seasoned with 1 tablespoon salt has been added and has come to a boil. Cook for 30 minutes.
Nearly $11M Secured For Community Projects
U.S.Senator Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced
$10,859,000 in federal funding for critical projects across Long Island in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 funding package that was signed into law last month. The senators personally secured funding for these projects as congressionally directed spending items.
“I’m proud to deliver more than $10 million in federal funds for these critical projects across Long Island,” said Senator Schumer. “From neurodegenerative disease research at Cold
Spring Harbor Laboratory, to supporting downtown development in North Hempstead, these funds are boosting projects that will make a difference in the lives of New Yorkers.”
“These federal dollars will power real growth across Long Island," said Senator Gillibrand, member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “From financing critical workforce development programs at United Way of Long Island to supporting the expansion of the YMCA in Patchogue, this money will make a real difference for New Yorkers. I'm proud to have fought to secure these funds, and I’ll keep working to bring
more federal dollars home to support growth on Long Island.”
A full list of funded projects across Long Island is below:
$3 million for Renovation of the YMCA of Long Island’s Patchogue Facility
$2 million for Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) Research
$2 million for the Village of Hempstead Mirschel Park Community Center
$1 million for the Town of Babylon Copiague Downtown Renewal
$1 million for the Town of
North Hempstead Dock Revitalization Project
$750,000 for United Way of Long Island’s Construction Training Academy
$459,000 for Hofstra University Long Island Studies Institute
$400,000 for the Viscardi Center for Creation of a Community Program Hub
$150,000 for Asian American Institute for Research and Engagement (AAIRE) Community Health Services
$100,000 for Citizens Campaign Fund for the Environment
First Annual Spring Jamboree Set To Give Back
The Town of Smithtown Recreation Department is inviting families to welcome spring with laughter, friendship, and a meaningful opportunity to give back. The Town’s first-ever Spring Jamboree, benefiting Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, will take place Thursday, April 9 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at The Pavilion at Smithtown Landing Country Club, 495 Landing Avenue.
Designed for children ages 4–8, the morning event blends playful fun with a heartfelt mission: collecting new, unwrapped toys to brighten the days of young patients receiving care at the hospital.
While the holiday season often inspires giving, town leaders say the need continues long after decorations come down. The Spring Jamboree offers families a chance to extend that generosity into the new season.
“Children rely on hospitals yearround, not just during the holidays… this event is a wonderful way to lift their spirits in the spring while giving our local families a chance to get out, have fun, and make new friends after a long winter,”shares Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.
Young attendees can look forward to a lively morning filled with arts and crafts, games, dancing, prizes, and plenty of opportunities to burn off pent-up winter energy. The Smithtown Recreation Department hopes the event will be such a success that it becomes a cherished new tradition, bringing families together while supporting children in need.
“We are proud to host an event that celebrates community spirit while helping brighten the days of children receiving care. A simple toy donation can bring comfort, joy, and a reminder that our community cares," adds
7 Signs Of Spring Allergies
Fewthings are more discouraging than enjoying warmer weather only to have spring allergies take hold. Also known as allergic rhinitis, spring allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as tree and grass pollen, mold, and dust. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 25.7% of U.S. adults and 18.9% of children experience seasonal allergies, contributing to an estimated $16 billion in annual health care costs and lost productivity. Spring allergies typically peak from March to May and can linger into July. Recognizing the symptoms helps distinguish allergies from a cold and allows for quicker relief. Common signs include:
Angela Hardina, Town of Smithtown Recreation Department.
Admission is one new, unwrapped toy in its original packaging. Participation is limited to 25 children, and registration opens February 18. Families are encouraged to secure a spot early: Register online: https://bit. ly/46bBBiW.
Residents who wish to contribute toys outside of the event may drop off donations at the Recreation Department during regular business hours. A suggested gift list is available here: https://bit.ly/4rrdzZZ.
For additional information, contact the Town of Smithtown Recreation Department at (631) 360-7644.
• Sneezing: Frequent, rapid sneezing fits, often after being outdoors.
• Itchy, watery eyes: Red, irritated eyes that feel gritty or tear excessively.
• Nasal congestion or runny nose: Clear,
thin mucus is typical of allergies.
• Itchy throat and ears: A scratchy sensation caused by pollen exposure.
• Allergic shiners: Dark circles under the eyes due to nasal congestion.
• Cough: A dry, persistent cough from post-nasal drip, often worse at night.
• Fatigue: Poor sleep and ongoing immune responses can cause daytime tiredness.
Although spring allergies affect millions each year, symptoms can often be managed by limiting exposure to triggers and using appropriate allergy medications.
The Adventure Park At LI Kicks Off 2026 Season
The Adventure Park at Long Island, the region’s premier outdoor zipline and climbing destination, will open for the 2026 season on Friday, March 20.
A favorite spring tradition for families, teens, and thrillseekers alike, The Adventure Park invites guests to climb, zip, and explore 14 aerial trails and 49 ziplines set high among the trees.
To celebrate the season, the Park will offer special Spring Break hours from April 2–12, open daily from 10 am to 7 pm. Plus, the fun continues with the return of the popular Easter Egg Hunt in the Trees. Guests can search for hidden “eggs” while climbing through the Park’s trails, and at the end of their adventure, enjoy a sweet treat from the Park Store. The Easter Egg Hunt
is free to participate in with the purchase of a climbing ticket. The full Spring 2026 schedule and hours are now available online.
About The Adventure Park at Long Island
The 14 trails at The Adventure Park consist of various challenges in the trees, including bridges, tightropes, ladders, and 49 ziplines. Participants wear harnesses with clips that connect to the trail’s safety system, ensuring that they are always locked on to the course until they reach the end.
The main trails are designed for ages 7 to adult, and an Adventure Playground provides a low-to-the-ground adventure experience for little climbers ages 3-6 Non-climbing participants are admitted free of charge
to share the experience on the ground and enjoy the property’s nature trails and picnic tables.
The Adventure Park at Long Island is open to the general public and is located on the Henry Kaufmann Campground on Long Island. The address is 75 Colonial Springs Road, East
Gate in Wheatley Heights NY. Guests are encouraged to book ahead on the Park's website or by calling 631983-3844.
The Adventure Park at Long Island is designed, built and operated by Outdoor Venture Group.
You Don’t Become A Household Name By Accident: What Makes Team Scarito One Of
If you live in Suffolk County, chances are you’re familiar with Team Scarito of RE/ MAX. The father-andson duo, Bob Scarito and Michael Scarito, have proudly served Long Island for more than 50 years - building their reputation one successful transaction at a time.
Grounded in trust, reliability and decades of experience, their business is defined by a commitment to exceptional service. For Team Scarito, working in real estate is more than a professionit’s a passion and a privilege. They
understand that buying or selling a home is often one of the most significant decisions in a person’s life, and they approach every listing with the care, integrity and personalized attention every client deserves. Lifelong local residents, the two officially joined
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Most Trusted Names In The Business
forces after Michaellike his father - earned his MBA. He later went on to lead finance departments at several top corporations, but while the career was rewarding, constant travel kept him away from home, which is never easy with two young children. When his father invited him to help grow his business, Michael was hesitant at first. But after careful consideration, he took a leap of faith. That decision proved transformative. Together, they’ve sold more than 4,500 homes across Long Island, building a reputation not only
for results, but for genuinely caring about the people they serve. Long Island isn’t just where they work and live, it’s a community they care deeply about. Deeply rooted here, they say, “We’re 100% invested in this.” With strong relationships within local government
and the community, they have insight that goes far beyond real estate, which helps them guide their clients even more. Combined with their strengths in communication and negotiation, that local expertise makes them a truly dynamic duo. “We keep it very simple with two reasons to sell your home with us: we have the best rates and unparalleled experience, knowledge and results.”
