

South Bay's Neighbor


HOMECOMING WITH A HEART
The flashing lights of fire trucks accompanied by the steady beat of drums meant one thing on Oct. 18 – the Seaford High School homecoming parade was approaching. Crowds lined Washington Avenue and Keily Drive for the annual march through town, followed by a spirited gathering at the athletic fields for the varsity football game. Seaford Middle School sixth grader Charlie Herbert, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, joined football captains, from left, Michael Spinella, Brian Falk, Thomas Mirenda, Matthew Kind and Ayden McNamara for the coin toss. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District







Late Knight Warriors Host “Cocktails For A Cause” To Support Local One-Year-Old Jackson Berry In His Fight Against Leukemia
The Late Knight Warriors (LKW), a local nonprofit, will host Cocktails for a Cause on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Tap Room in Bay Shore to support one-yearold Jackson Berry and his family as he battles leukemia.
Jackson is a bright, resilient one-year-old whose life was recently upended by hospital visits, treatments, and the challenges of his fight against leukemia. His father is a longtime friend to several LKW members, making this cause deeply personal to the community.
The event, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, will feature
an appetizer buffet, a signature open bar, and opportunities to participate in a Chinese auction and 50/50 raffle. A large portion of proceeds, along with 100% of donations made in Jackson’s name, will go directly to his family.
“This cause is deeply personal to us,” said Laura Gottfried, Vice President of LKW. “My own family faced a similar challenge years ago, and I know how much support can help. With Jackson’s father being a friend to several of our members, we felt an urgent need to build that same network of care and support his family in every way we can.”
Tickets are limited so
we encourage people to buy their tickets early at the LKW website: https:// lateknightwarriors.com/ lkw-cocktail-party. Those unable to attend can still help by donating or purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets through the LKW website.
About Late Knight Warriors: LKW is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 331831126) that combines social connection with community impact. All events and initiatives are powered entirely by volunteers, with no board member or organizer receiving compensation.
Homecoming With A Heart At Seaford High School
The flashing lights of fire trucks accompanied by the steady beat of drums meant one thing on Oct. 18 – the Seaford High School homecoming parade was approaching. Crowds lined Washington Avenue and Keily Drive for the annual march through town, followed by a spirited gathering at
the athletic fields for the varsity football game.
The parade featured board of education trustees, administrators and teachers, the marching band, cheerleaders, class banners, homecoming court, middle school and elementary school banners, youth groups and more. The grand marshals
this year were members of Retired Teachers of Seaford.
A new picnic area adjacent to the concession stand was a popular spot for mingling, as students, parents and community members enjoyed a treat before the game. Soon, the bleachers filled out, ready for the Seaford Vikings to

Falk ran
of
the end

for
take the field.
Chorus students sang the national anthem, followed by a special moment at midfield.
Charlie Herbert, a sixth grader at Seaford Middle School who was recently diagnosed with cancer, was an honorary football captain and led the coin toss. Seaford won, got the
ball first, and notched a touchdown just 26 seconds into the game. Despite a lot of early scoring by both teams, the Vikings pulled solidly ahead in the second half to defeat the Lynbrook Owls, 49-28.
Halftime featured performances by the cheerleaders and dance team, introduction of the grand marshals and the marching band show, “Seaford Goes to the Movies.” Matt Kind and Mia Leggio were crowned king and queen with Robert Jeranek, Connor Murphy, Kayla Martell and Brianna Sidoti rounding out the homecoming court.





Brian
toward
zone to score the first touchdown of the day
the Seaford Vikings against the Lynbrook Owls during the homecoming game on Oct. 18. Photos courtesy
the Seaford School District
The Vikingettes dance team gave a rousing halftime performance.
Cheerleaders kept the crowd energized throughout the game.
The marching band performed its 2025 field show, “Seaford Goes to the Movies.”
Matthew Kind and Mia Leggio were crowned homecoming king and queen.
The senior class presented their banner in the homecoming parade.
The grand marshals from Retired Teachers of Seaford were honored at halftime.


•

•





















































































OCTOBER HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29th
10:30AM-11:15AM
NOT-SO-SCARY PJ STORIES
The Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Ave in Merrick. Free Event. No registration required. Wear your PJs or a costume and drop in for stories that are more silly than scary. For more information, please call 516-377-6112
7:00PM
POCKETBOOK BINGO





The Memorare Columbiettes Auxiliary is hosting Pocketbook Bingo. Doors open at 6:00pm, games start at 7:00 pm. The Memorare Council is located at 2183 Jackson Avenue in Seaford. $35 per person includes 8 games of bingo, wine, soda, snacks, coffee and dessert. (Snacks from home are always welcome). 50/50 and lotto board raffles and additional bingo cards will be available for purchase For more information or to purchase tickets please contact Lisa Koenig 516-205-0768
THURSDAY, OCT. 30th
6:00PM-7:45PM
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW SCREENING
The Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Ave in Merrick. Community Room. Free event. No registration required. A flamboyant transvestite offers shelter to a straight-laced, newly-engaged couple whose car breaks down near his mansion, introducing them to a wild and
HOLIDAYS
13th - COLUMBUS DAY
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY 31st - HALLOWEEN

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
outrageous cast of partygoers. For more information, please call 516-377-6112
FRIDAY, OCT. 31st
9:00AM-5:00PM
TRICK-OR-TREAT AT THE LIBRARY
The Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Ave. in Merrick. Wear your costume and stop by our public service desks to trick-or-treat! Each child will receive a non-food item. While supplies last. No registration required. All ages, but recommended for ages 3-10. For more information, please call 516-377-6112
7:00PM-11:00PM BRUMIDI’S SPOOKTACULAR NIGHT
Buffet Dinner, Beer, Wine, Soda, Coffee/Tea, Dessert, Music DJ Rotten Raffles, Costume Contest (Costume not requited, however) $55 pp. For more information, please call Antonietta 631-6177945. Sons & Daughters of Italy 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park
UPCOMING NOVEMBER EVENTS
SATURDAY, NOV. 1st
10:00AM-1:00PM
BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Lindenhurst Library will have a Book Sale at One Lee Avenue in Lindenhurst. Early access at 9:00 am for current Friends members. You may join at the event to take advantage of early access. For more information, please call 631-957-7755
11:30AM-4:30PM EMPOWERED AUTUMN HOLISTIC FESTIVAL
P&A Park, 759 Long Island Ave. in Deer Park. 100 Wellness Vendors, 7 Food Trucks, Healers, Psychics, Music & Adopt-A-Pet! Free Admission, Family Friendly, Plenty of Parking. For more information, please call Diane 516-639-6903
12:00NOON-3:00PM HARVEST PARTY
LIVING LIVER DONATION BENEFIT
Play carnival games and win prizes. Free will donation. This is a benefit for Susie Sheridan who is in need of a living liver donation. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690
EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY THROUGH NOV. 2
6:00PM-9:00PM SPOOKY FEST
Center for Science Teaching and Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road in Rockville Centre. This Halloween adventure is perfect for families who don't want to be scared.... or maybe are looking for something a bit more frightening. For more information, please call 516-764-0045







































































































































































FourLeaf Federal Credit Union recently announced that applications for its annual Scholarship Program are now open. High school seniors are invited to apply for financial assistance as they prepare for college. Designed to support hardworking, community-minded students, the program provides awards that can
help offset the rising costs of tuition, books, and other college expenses.
“Our scholarships are one way we can help ease the financial burden on families while encouraging students to pursue their dreams,” shared Kimberly Ruiz, Manager Community Engagement New Markets. “Each year, we proudly award 10
accomplished students, knowing that investing in young people is an investment in the future of our communities.” To apply, please visit; https://www.fourleaffcu. com/community/ education-scholarships/. The 2026 Scholarship Program application deadline date is Friday, January 9, 2026 (no late submissions are accepted).












All-State Selection A High Note For Seaford Musician
Eight years of dedication to the clarinet has paid off for Seaford High School senior Brian Karaman, who will attend the New York State School Music Association’s AllState music festival in December.
Brian began playing in fourth grade at Seaford Harbor Elementary School. Since then, he has been a four-time AllCounty musician, learned to play the alto saxophone and become a respected student leader in the high school’s music program.
This year, he is a drum major for the marching band and treasurer of the Tri-M Music Honor Society.
A member of multiple school ensembles, Brian plays the clarinet with symphonic band and the saxophone with jazz band. Outside of school, he is a member of the Nassau-Suffolk Wind Symphony, an auditiononly ensemble featuring top high school studentmusicians from Long Island.
Brian will play in the symphonic band at the NYSSMA All-State festival in Rochester alongside many other talented musicians from New York.


Seaford High School senior Brian Karaman will join the Symphonic Band at the NYSSMA All-State music festival in December. Photos courtesy of the Seaford School District
Following rehearsals, the group will perform on the morning of Dec. 7 in the Eastman Theatre under the direction of Dr. Courtney Snyder. Brian and his fellow All-State musicians will also attend workshops throughout the weekend.








Congratulating Brian on the accomplishment are, from left, Coordinator of Fine and Applied Arts Dr. Patrick Kennedy and band directors Dr. Anthony Romeo and Christopher Coniglio.




Residents Invited To Submit Photos For Town Publications
Want to see your photos in upcoming Town publications such as the Town calendar? Oyster Bay Town Councilman Andrew Monteleone invites residents to submit photos taken in the Town of Oyster Bay to be considered for future use in print or online. Photos are needed depicting all seasons.
“We accept photos year-round submitted by our residents which depict people, places, community events and scenery throughout our Town,” said Councilman Monteleone. “We accept photos for the calendar, as well as other Town publications, including our website, social media pages and brochures.”
Councilman Monteleone noted that photos should be taken within the confines of the Town of Oyster Bay. Digital submissions

are preferred, but highquality photos may also be submitted. Emailed photos should be sent to photos@oysterbay-ny. gov. Printed photos can be submitted to the Town’s Public Information Office, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay NY 11771. Residents should make sure their name,
address, phone number and brief description of the photo are included with their submission. The photographer is responsible for the correct spelling of the names and subjects in the photos, as well as notifying subjects they may appear in a Town publication.








Carpenter/Contract
Extensions
•Telephone Jacks
•CAT 6 Computer Wiring, •Rep air Cable Modem Phones
•Land Line Phone Systems •Star Link Dish Installed & Serviced
&
Baths, Kitchens, Floo ring, Inte rior Doors Sh eetrock, Trim, Plumbing Crown Molding, Plumbing, etc. OWNER OP ERATED
Licensed/Insured Free Estimates ACE CONTR ACTING CALL OR TE XT 631 432 3892
HANDYMAN AVAILABLE
Minor Repairs to Major Renov ations
Tile Work, Painting Sheetrock, Spackle Flooring, Roof Repairs
Deck Construction & Repair & mu ch more J&J Pr emier
General Construction (516) 523-5591
Gutters GUTTER S Cleaned! Repaired! Replaced! 20% off on gutter guards Expert Handyman & Power Washing Services Available. Reasonable, Reliable & Ready! Mention This Ad! FREE ESTIMATES ALWAYS!! Licensed & Insured. Owner On Every Jo b TRIPLE R GU TTERS Call To ny 516-799-4306 631-793-8812 Masonr y

Visiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-thetree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible.
According to the Economic Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were
Prediabetes
Is A Serious Condition
(NAPSI)—Prediabetes is a serious condition that, untreated, can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Fortunately, a healthy lifestyle can manage or even reverse prediabetes. To learn more, visit the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website at www.niddk.nih.gov.
Apple Picking Pointers
first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those looking to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime.
Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure

the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
• Do some research. Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
• Visit early. The best apples are often available early in the season before the trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
• Dress appropriately. Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven. Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly
early in the day and then warmer later on.
• Pick correctly. Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
• Avoid bruising. It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
• Don’t overload. Only pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, over-picking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten. After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer.
Long Islanders Invited To Women & Alzheimer’s: The Empowerment Forum 2025
With women accounting for two-thirds of all individuals living with Alzheimer’s and twothirds of all dementia family caregivers, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) will host Women & Alzheimer’s: The Empowerment Forum 2025 on Wednesday, November 5, in Amityville. The event takes place at The Villas at Dominican Village, Helen Butler O.P. Hall (565 Albany Avenue, Amityville) from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm (doors open at 8:45 am for breakfast, exhibits, and memory screenings).
Individuals can register for free by visiting www.alzfdn. org/WEF2025. The free forum will highlight Alzheimer’s disparate impact on women and provide practical information to help women reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s; plan for long-term needs;
and improve quality of life for themselves and their loved ones with Alzheimer’s. The event is open to all and features panel discussions with female medical and dementia care experts as well as family caregivers; informative exhibits; and free memory screenings.
Women have a greater lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and account for two-thirds of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Additionally, two-thirds of Alzheimer’s caregivers are women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Panelists will include: Medical Panel Discussion:
• Dr. Stephanie Cosentino – Professor of Neuropsychology in the Cognitive Neuroscience Division

of the Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center at Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC).
• Dr. Ula Hwang –Professor of Emergency Medicine and Population Health,
Medical Director of Geriatric Emergency Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine; Core Investigator, GRECC (Geriatrics Research, Education and Clinical Center), James J. Peters Bronx VA Medical Center.
• Dr. Bei Wu – Dean’s Professor in Global
Health and Vice Dean for Research, NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing; Co-Director, NYU Aging Incubator.
Professional Panel Discussion:
• Stephanie M. Alberts – Attorney and Partner, Co-Chair, Trusts & Estates practice group, Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP.
• Daphne Perry – Healthcare Administrator and Program Director, Stony Brook Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease (CEAD).
Caregiver Panel
Discussion:
• Alicia Evans – Caregiver advocate, medical communications trainer, published book author, and 2025 Long Island Artist Fellow.
• Cary Lopez – Co-
Founder and Executive Director, Act Now, former family caregiver. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panelists.
“Women are at the epicenter of the Alzheimer’s crisis — as caregivers, advocates, and the majority of those diagnosed. This forum is about turning awareness into action,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President & CEO. “Together, we will empower women with the knowledge, tools, and community support they need to take control of their brain health, plan for the future, and drive social change that improves lives.”
For more information or to register for Women & Alzheimer’s: The Empowerment Forum 2025 on November 5 in Amityville, visit www.alzfdn. org/WEF2025 or call AFA at 866-232-8484.
















































