MRI, Low Dose CT Scan, Cardiac Services, Ultrasound, Digital X - ray, DEXA (Bone Density)
D Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, Breast MRI
Breast Imaging Services
Comprehensive Breast Imaging Services
Breast Biopsies including Ultrasound - Guided, MRI- Guided and Stereotactic
Book Appointments & Find Locations: Visit nwhlabs.northwell.edu/locations for Booking/ Locations. Walk-ins are always welcome!
Ultrasound, Breast MRI
3- D Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, Breast MRI
Appointments:
516- 266 -3456
Breast Biopsies including Ultrasound
Guided, MRI otactic
516-
Cow Adoption A Moo-Ving Experience
Through monthly updates, fourth graders at McKenna Elementary School in the Massapequa School District are eagerly exploring the progress of Ivy, a young cow they adopted through the Discover Dairy.
Teachers Jordyn Axelrod and Jamie Gallo signed up for the free year-long AdoptA-Cow program which connects schools with farms in the region. The 3-month-
old Ivy is being raised at Fouts Farm in Cortland, N.Y. The class received a certificate of adoption and students get regular reports on Ivy along with photos and videos of the calf with her host farmer, Juila. Ms. Axelrod and Ms. Gallo are connecting the cow adoption to all subject areas. In math, students are keeping track of Ivy’s height and weight, and
marking a measurement chart in the classroom. They gain scientific knowledge by learning about the development of an animal. In English language arts, students read nonfiction books about cows, and for social studies they made New York State maps and identified Cortland’s location. Ivy is 268 miles away from Massapequa, they learned.
A fourth grade class at McKenna Elementary School adopted a cow in upstate New York through the Discover Dairy program.
Seniors Invited To Join ‘Golden Tones’ Chorus Group
Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Laura Maier announced that the Town of Oyster Bay ‘Golden Tones Entertainment Group’ is returning to the North Massapequa Community Center this February and invites new members. This senior chorus is a social group open to Town residents over the age of 60 who have an interest in singing, dancing or entertaining. Anyone 60 and over is welcome, a great singing voice is not required to participate in this social group.
“We hear from choir members all the time how singing together lifts their spirits while providing great enjoyment to others in senior care facilities, schools and at public events,” said Councilwoman Maier. “The Golden Tones Chorus provides a creative and social outlet for seniors to make new friends and bond
over their love of music. Come join today!”
Meetings will be held every Friday, beginning Friday, January 30, at 10 a.m. at the North Massapequa Community Center, located at 214 North Albany Avenue in North Massapequa. Senior citizens interested in joining the Golden Tones should call (516) 797-7916 for more information.
Sal Diana opened the note announcing there was an update on their adopted cow, Ivy. Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Play Ball! Saladino Announces 2026 Summer Softball League
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that registration is now open for the Town’s Summer Softball Night League, with games scheduled to begin in May 2026. Games will be held at three parks throughout the Town with a season consisting of 10 weeks of regularly scheduled double headers (20 games total) plus playoffs and championships. Residents and non-residents alike are welcome to sign up for the softball league. Players must be ages 18 and older.
“The Town’s Summer Softball Night League is a fun and competitive league that provides a great opportunity for both residents and nonresidents to enjoy their love of the game and appreciate some of our wonderful Town parks and facilities,” said Supervisor Saladino. “So, get your team together and take advantage of one
of the Town’s most popular programs!”
Games begin in May and will be held at 3 different locations:
• John J. Burns Park, 4990 Merrick Road in Massapequa
• Ellsworth Allen Park, 45 Motor Avenue in Farmingdale
• Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park, 175 Washington Avenue in Plainview
Registration is currently available at oysterbaytown.
com/sports. The fee is $850 per team, and each team is responsible for liability and accidental insurance as well as umpire fees. Umpire fees are paid in cash to the umpires at the start of each game. Each team will sign up for one of three divisions: A, B, or C, with A being the most advanced. Teams interested in more information can call the Town of Oyster Bay’s Parks Department, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-7945.
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 four-tier 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 last-minute 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.
Monteleone Announces Winter
Toddler Arts & Crafts Program
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Andrew Monteleone announced that the popular Toddler Arts & Crafts Program will be offered again this winter, beginning on February 10th. This 6-week program offers classes at the Town’s Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage and at the Hicksville Athletic Center, and is open to children ages 2 through 4.
“The Town’s Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is a wonderful way to help support your toddler’s development through nurturing their artistic expression,” said Councilman Monteleone.
“Classes will certainly fill up quickly as this program offers children an opportunity to meet others their age and explore their creativity. Highlights of the program include holiday crafts and ceramics.”
The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program begins February 10th and is 6 weeks in duration. Residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take place on:
• Tuesdays at 10:00 am for two-year-olds, and 11:00 am for threeand-four-year-olds at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville;
• Wednesdays at 10:00 am for two-year-olds, and 11:00 am for threeand-four-year-olds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage;
• Thursdays at 10:00 am for two-year-olds, and 11:00 am for threeand-four-year-olds at the Ice Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage. Registration is available online through the Parks
Registration Portal at oysterbaytown.com/ sports Space is limitedfirst come, first serve. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity. Each class is approximately 45 minutes. The cost of the program is $35 per child who is a Town resident, and $45 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. The child’s birth certificate and a tax or utility bill will be required to validate age and proof of residency. A guardian must be present during the class. A smock and supplies will be provided with enrollment. The final day to request a refund for this program will be February 19, 2026. The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For further information, please call (516) 797-7945.
Pravato To Host Free Property Tax Assessment Grievance
Workshops Offered Through Mid-February
Oyster Bay Town Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato will host four free Property Tax Assessment Grievance Workshops for residents looking to acquire information on how to challenge their 2027-2028 property tax assessments. The workshops will be held both in the morning and evening to help accommodate all residents.
“While Nassau County determines your assessed value, we in Town government want to make sure you know that you have a right as a homeowner to challenge your assessment. Remember, your assessment can only be lowered as the result of a challenge – it can never be raised – and this workshop helps you challenge for free,” said Receiver of Taxes Pravato. “If you are a homeowner who disagrees
with the assessed value of your property, I invite you to attend a Property Tax Assessment Workshop, as the property tax grievance deadline of March 2nd is approaching.”
The Property Tax Grievance Workshops are scheduled as follows:
• Monday, February 2nd, 7 p.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W Carl St
• Tuesday, February 3rd, 10 a.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W Carl St
• Wednesday, February 11th, 7 p.m. at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay
• Thursday, February 12th, 10 a.m. at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay
In January, Nassau County notified residents of their home’s tentative
assessed value for the 20272028 School Tax period and the 2028 General Tax period. Any residents who did not receive the notice may view it online at www. mynassauproperty.com or contact their County Legislator. At the workshop, Receiver of Taxes Pravato will answer questions and show residents how to use online tools to file an “Application for Correction of Property Tax Assessment” online or via mail. There is no requirement to pay a law firm or agency to file a grievance. For those unable to attend the workshop, Receiver of Taxes Pravato offers an online video at www.oysterbaytown. com/grievancevideo. For more information, contact the Tax Office at (516) 624-6400 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com.
Can Upload Materials In Advance Of Spring Registration – Space Is Limited
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announce that residents interested in enrolling their children in the 2026 Summer Recreation Program may pre-register now through March 27 by uploading proof of residency through the Town’s recreation portal. Pre-registration is mandatory prior to final registration this spring, which will again be conducted fully online.
This year’s Summer Recreation Program will be offered as a full-day program only for children ages 4–12. The program will take place at Ellsworth W. Allen Park in Farmingdale, Marjorie R. Post Community Park in Massapequa, Plainview Old Bethpage Community Park in Plainview, Syosset Woodbury Community Park in Woodbury, and Harry Tappen Beach & Park in Glenwood Landing. Space is limited at each location. The program runs Monday, June 29 through Friday, August 7. Full details are available at www.oysterbaytown.com/ summerrec
“The Town’s Summer Recreation Program
features great summer fun for children at five of our Town parks, with activities including arts and crafts, games, themed days, water fun, scavenger hunts and much more,” said Supervisor Saladino. “To help streamline the process, parents can begin pre-registration today by submitting proof of residency online.”
All registrations will be completed online. To simplify the process, the Parks Department is accepting proof of residency during the pre-registration period. After March 27, families who pre-register will receive instructions on completing final registration this spring.
Pre-registration does not guarantee a spot in the program.
Beginning in 2026, pre-registration requires submission of proof of residency only. All other required documents— including a birth certificate, immunization records, and a current physical— must be submitted after enrollment and payment.
To pre-register, parents or guardians must create or log into an account at www.oysterbaytown.com/
portal, confirm household and family member information, subscribe to email communications, and upload one acceptable proof of residency dated 2026. Acceptable documents include a Town of Oyster Bay tax bill or utility bill displaying a parent or guardian’s name and Town address. Once uploaded, families must finalize preregistration through the portal. Documentation will be reviewed, and an email notification will be sent regarding approval status.
“We know many of our youngsters look forward to the warm weather and all the fun the Summer Recreation Program offers,” said Councilwoman Walsh. “With full-day programs available at all five locations, we look forward to another successful summer.”
The mandatory preregistration period is open now through March 27. Final registration will open this spring, and parents will receive email instructions from the Recreation Division. For more information, visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ summerrecreation or call the Town’s Recreation Office at (516) 797-7945.
Franchises That Have Never Won A Super Bowl
More than 135 million people tuned in to watch the Kansas City Chiefs attempt to make history at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on February 9, 2025. Seeking their third straight Super Bowl title, a feat that had never been accomplished in the history of the National Football League, the Chiefs ultimately fell short, falling to the Philadelphia Eagles by a score of 40-22.
Chiefs fans who were
disappointed by the result of Super Bowl LIX could nonetheless rest a little easier knowing the franchise already had four Super Bowl wins to its credit. Many devoted fans and storied franchises have no such championship pedigree to fall back on. In fact, the number of franchises that have yet to win a Super Bowl might surprise diehard and casual fans alike. All told, 12 franchises have yet to win a Super Bowl,
but perhaps this year’s game will end with one of those teams permanently removing themselves from this list: • Arizona Cardinals
Atlanta Falcons
Buffalo Bills
Carolina Panthers
Cincinnati Bengals
Cleveland Browns
Detroit Lions
Houston Texans
Jacksonville Jaguars
Los Angeles Chargers
Minnesota Vikings
Tennessee Titans
SUNDAY, DEC. 7th
JANUARY
HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY JAN. 28th
Doors open 6:00PM
Games start 7:00PM VALENTINE BINGO
The Memorare Columbiette® Auxiliary located at 2183 Jackson Avenue in Seaford, is hosting a Valentine Bingo. $35 p.p., includes 8 games of bingo, wine, soda, snacks, coffee and dessert. (Snacks from home are always welcome). 50/50, lotto board, raffles and additional bingo cards are available for purchase. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Patricia Fernando 516-798-6237
7:30PM
ALTERNATIVE ROCK MUSIC BINGO at 317 Main Street in Farmingdale. Join 317 Main Street for Alternative Rock Music Bingo. $20 per person includes 2 bingo cards. All winners will receive a prize! Reserve your spot now and purchase your ticket! 21+ / Limited menu available during the event. For more information, please call 631-921-4670
SATURDAY, JAN. 31st
10:30AM–12:00PM
MAPLE SUGARING
at Nissequogue River State Park in Kings Park. (Family Program ages 8+) Maple syrup production has been a tradition in the Americas for centuries. This demonstration will walk your family through the process of identifying and tapping maple trees. Meet us at the Charles & Helen Reichert Park Office on the North side of the park! Reservations are required:
Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure. For more information, please visit parks. ny.gov, or call 631-669-1000
5:00PM
TEENS CANNED FOOD DRIVE
The Babylon Library is hosting a canned vegetable drive to help out our neighbors at Nourish Babylon! Teens should bring in four cans of one type of vegetable (carrots, green beans, corn, potatoes, etc.) to earn one hour of community service. There will be a collection box at the Adult Reference Desk. Teens must be present to receive their community service form! Grades 6-12. 24 S. Carll Ave. in Babylon. For more information, please call Erin White 631-6691624
THROUGH JAN. 31st
9:00AM-6:00PM SHOWCASE ABSTRACT PAINTINGS Richard Margolies to Showcase Abstract Paintings at East Islip Library, 381 E. Main Street in East Islip. The exhibit will highlight a collection of his latest abstract paintings, offering visitors a chance to experience his bold use of color, form, and texture. For more information, please call 631-5819200
UPCOMING FEBRUARY EVENTS
SUNDAY, FEB. 1st
12:00PM-6:00PM
TAKEOUT SUNDAY SAUCE DINNER Babylon Lions Club in conjunction
editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
or
with Cafe Il Villaggio presents Gaspare Mannina & Jim Bruscia Memorial Takeout Sunday Sauce Dinner. Pre-orders can be placed beginning at 11:00AM, call 631422-7037. $35 per order - take out only. Includes Pasta, Meatballs and Sausages. Complimentary bottle of wine with orders of $70 or more. Orders can be picked up at Cafe Il Villaggio 35 Deer Park Ave. in Babylon
1:00PM
SUNDAY FUNDAY: SHADOWS & SURPRISES at Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. A fun groundhog adventure. Meet some animal friends and do some fun activities while learning all about groundhogs and their friends. For more information, please call Call Sweetbriar 631979-6344 or visit https://www. sweetbriarnc.org/
THURSDAY, FEB. 5th 7:00PM
BLACK JAZZ ARTISTS TO BE CELEBRATED
Black History Month will be celebrated this year at The Jazz Loft with a special presentation by the Loft’s 17-piece Big Band. The program will feature compositions by Black composers, arrangers, and performers. The band is conducted by The Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel. For more information, visit https://www.thejazzloft.org or call 631-751-1895 MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must
New York Blood Center Declares Blood Emergency Amid Sharp Post-Holiday Donation Drop
New York Blood Center (NYBC) has declared a blood emergency, urging immediate donations as supplies fall to critically low levels. Holiday disruptions, severe winter storms, canceled blood drives, and widespread seasonal illness have caused donations to drop nearly 40% below hospital demand, leaving less than a two-day supply for more than 200 hospitals across the tri-state area.
Recent challenges include major snowstorms that halted travel and blood drives, record flu activity with over 71,000 cases reported in a single week, and holiday timing that eliminated two weeks of peak midweek collections—resulting in about 10,000 fewer donations than needed. “Blood is needed every single day for trauma care, surgeries, cancer treatment, and chronic conditions,” said Jeannie Mascolino, NYBC Vice President of Blood Operations.
Although January is National Blood Donor Month, the need is urgent now due to blood’s limited shelf life. NYBC encourages eligible donors to schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-9332566 or visiting nybc.org. Those unable to donate can still help by volunteering or supporting NYBC’s mission financially at nybc.org/support-us.
WORDS
Classifieds
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation invites you to warm up from the Winter cold and enjoy the comfort of fine classical music on Sunday afternoons at the River Room at Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park in Great River, New
2026 Winter Concert ‘Salon’ Series At Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park
York. The 2026 Winter Concert Salon Series performance schedule is as follows:
February 08 – JK Hodge (Piano)
February 15 – Student Showcase Variety Performance
March 01 – Serenade
Duo Jerry Saulter (Guitar), Michele LoPorte (Flute)
March 08 – Cambiata Duo Paul Finkelstein (Cello) & Suzanne Mueller (Cello)
March 15 – Cross Island
Ensemble Suzanne Mueller (Cello), Eleanor Zayas (Piano), Joseph Rutkowski (Clarinet)
Seating will be limited with pre-registration required through the Islip Arts Council. All concerts begin promptly at 1:00PM. The concerts, free to the public, are sponsored by the Islip Arts Council with funding provided by Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Natural Heritage
Trust. For registration, please call the Islip Arts Council at (631) 888-3525 or visit isliparts.org. For information on the day of the concert, please call Bayard Cutting Arboretum at (631) 5811002.
Massapequa School District to Host Special Olympics New York Spring Games on May 2, 2026
Partnership With Special Olympics New York And Town Of Oyster Bay To Bring Major Regional Competition To Massapequa Community
Massapequa School District is excited to announce that a date has been set for the Long Island Region of Special Olympics New York Spring Games! On Saturday, May 2, 2026, the district will host the first of two annual Spring Games as part of a new partnership with Special Olympics New York and thousands of spectators and volunteers for an unforgettable celebration of athleticism, inclusion and community spirit.
The district’s Berner
Middle School will serve as the venue for the major competitions, providing a premier setting for athletes to showcase their talents and determination. From the Opening Ceremony to when the final medals are handed out, the games are certain to be a festive and inclusive community event, uniting students, families and neighbors in support of these incredible athletes.
“We are honored to host the Special Olympics New York Spring Games and
to partner with Special Olympics New York and the Town of Oyster Bay to make this event possible,” said Superintendent of Massapequa School District Dr. William Brennan. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students and community to witness firsthand the power of sports to inspire, unite and celebrate the abilities of all individuals.”
The Spring Games will feature a variety of athletic competitions and will offer
numerous opportunities for community members to get involved, including volunteer roles, fundraising efforts and event sponsorships. Local businesses, organizations and families are invited to be part of this inspiring event.
“We are thrilled to bring the Spring Games to Massapequa and to partner with a community that so clearly shares our passion for inclusion,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President & CEO of Special Olympics New York.
“When schools and local leaders come together to celebrate our athletes, they create more than just a day of competition. They embrace a culture of acceptance, respect, and joy that extends far beyond the playing field.”
“The Special Olympic Spring Games provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase the hard work, dedication, talents, and tremendous athletic achievements of these special athletes, while also paving the way to eliminate social
barriers and stereotypes differently-abled individuals face,” added Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “The Town of Oyster Bay is very proud to be a partner with Special Olympics New York and thank the Massapequa School District for their assistance in making this year’s event a great success.” Additional information about sponsorship and volunteer opportunities and ways to support the games will be available in the coming months.
