July 8, 2026 Massapequa Park

South Bay's Neighbor

New Memorial Honoring Fallen Baymen Unveiled

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Lou Imbroto, Councilman Tom Hand, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Receiver of Taxes

Jeffrey Pravato joined with members of the Baymen’s

Heritage Association and Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder to host a dedication ceremony for a new monument at Theodore Roosevelt Park.

The Baymen’s Memorial Monument, which was

installed overlooking the harbor where many baymen make their living, is a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made by all baymen.

“This new monument, featuring a statue of a bayman pulling his catch

onto his boat, will forever remember those who make their living from the sea. This will be a place of reflection, where friends, family, and visitors can view our beautiful harbor and take a few minutes to think about

the sacrifices made by our baymen,” said Supervisor Saladino. “They toil in a challenging environment and endure hardship to bring the bounties of the sea to our tables. Throughout the year, despite the

Saladino Honors North Massapequa Firefighters

elements, baymen harvest clams and oysters in the waters, providing one of the last locally gathered food supplies in our area – and their work is full of risk.”

The Supervisor unveiled the monument alongside the family of Michael Kennedy, who lost his life as a baymen on the waters of the Long Island Sound, as well as members of the Baymen’s Heritage Association, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder, local officials, the artist who created the monument, several local baymen, representatives from the Joel Foundation, and acclaimed performing artist Mike DelGuidice.

Members of the Baymen’s Heritage Association raised funds for the project, which included a large donation from local musician Billy Joel. The memorial honors the Town’s Baymen and those who have lost their lives to the demanding profession.

Supervisor Saladino

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino recently attended the North Massapequa Fire Department’s Annual Installation Dinner to honor Ex-Chief Michael Antonucci and Ex-Chief Nicholas Paolucci for their lengthy and decorated list of accomplishments throughout their exemplary 50 years of service to the district and the community. Also in attendance were NYS Assemblyman John Mikulin and Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy.

stated, “The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to honor brave firefighters and first responders like Ex-Chief Antonucci and Ex-Chief Paolucci who have dedicated their lives to protecting our community. We are forever grateful for your service and courage in answering the call of duty and being part of the select few who choose to run towards an emergency instead of away. God bless all first responders and the brave men and women in uniform who protect and serve.”

The Woman’s Club of Massapequa Scholarship Awards

The May General Meeting of the Woman’s Club of Massapequa was presided by President, Antoinette La Bonte. The Child Welfare Scholarship Committee headed by Chair, Jo Ann Hundertmark presented two Massapequa High School students a $1500 Scholarship award for “most improved” during their high school years. Congratulations go to our winners Olivia Capobianco and Abigail Smar!

Special thanks to Hospitality Chairs Tami Valenti and Tammy Lestingi and their wonderful team including Tina Polek, Judy Guardiola and Billie Jean Theriot for setting up a lovely “welcome table” for our winners, family and friends.

In addition, The Child Welfare Department contributed to Birthday-In-ABox, which is a wonderful organization that provides a birthday celebration for a child living in a domestic violence shelter. This year two children were selected to receive a beautifully decorated box filled to the brim with all the fixings for a birthday party.  As no party would be complete without gifts, our members Rose Falco, Lucy Carone,

Carol Dabovich and Tami Valenti made sure they included many birthday gifts for the children!

Our Membership Chair, Monica Rea, installed our newest member Claudia Peglow who was sponsored by member, Bernadette Schirmacher. Welcome Claudia!

Submitted by Maureen Larisch

Massapequa Kiwanis Awards Scholarships To Six Outstanding Graduates

Olivia Guttman, and Christian Hardiman. Walsh, Guttman, and Hardiman were unable to attend the ceremony.

Scholarships were awarded to graduates from Massapequa High School, Seaford High School, Plainedge High School, and GC Tech BOCES. Selected from more than 60 applicants, each recipient received a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their dedication to serving others.

Those honored were Ryan

Joining the scholarship recipients were New York State Assemblymen John K. Mikulin and Michael Durso, Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Tom Hand, Massapequa Kiwanis President Leonard “Bud” Antonelli, and Kiwanis Vice President and Scholarship Committee Chairman Jim Taratunio.

In addition to the

scholarship award, each student received a citation from Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, a Certificate of Merit from Assemblyman Michael Durso, and a Certificate of Achievement from Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino.

Also attending the ceremony was Paul Weber, Executive Assistant for Guidance for the Massapequa School District, whose support throughout the scholarship application process was instrumental.

The Massapequa Kiwanis also recognized the

guidance counselors from the participating schools for assisting students with their applications.

The Massapequa Kiwanis Scholarship Committee selects recipients based on exemplary community service, volunteerism, and their commitment to making a positive difference in their communities.

Someone once said… ”Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”

Kids Coloring Contest!

Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Three winners will be chosen - one in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10.

Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to Splish Splash. All entries must be submitted by July 27. One entry per person.

Please mail your submission to:

Long Island Media Group Attn: Marketing 565 Broadhollow Road Suite 3 Farmingdale, NY 11735

Name: Age: Phone Number: Email address: Town:

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JULY HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8th

7:00PM

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: STRAWBERRY FIELDS –BEATLES TRIBUTE

FRIDAY, JULY 10th

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: SOMETHIN' FRESH

The Town of Babylon hosts its 2026 Summer Concert Series at the Tanner Park Bandshell, 400 Baylawn Avenue in Copiague. Join us for an evening of live music as part of the Town of Babylon’s Summer Concert Series. Featuring free weekly outdoor performances and tribute bands. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a great night of entertainment. Weather permitting. For more information, please visit https://townofbabylonny.gov/ calendar.aspx

FRIDAY, JULY 10th & SATURDAY, JULY 11th

9:30AM-3:00PM

INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD SALE FUNDRAISER

Rain or Shine. Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Avenue (@ Lake Ave) in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-0221. No Vendors/Free Admission

SATURDAY, JULY 11th

9:00AM-1:00PM

AMITYVILLE FARMER'S MARKET

The Amityville Farmer's Market runs Saturday mornings on the Great Lawn at 25 Broadway in Amityville, next to the historic First United Methodist Church. Amityville Farmer’s Market is sponsored by the Bay Village Civic Association. There will be a local farmer, and many vendors. For more information, contact

4th - Independence Day

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

amityfarmers market @gmail.com or bayvillagecivic@aol.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 12th

3:00PM-7:00PM MEMORIAL PICNIC

Please join us at Firemen's Park in Lindenhurst, in celebrating the life of Paul, who proudly worked at Exotic Wines & Liquors in Lindenhurst for over 15 years. All who knew and loved Paul are welcome. For more information, please call Elaine 631-226-3965

MONDAY, JULY 13th

1:00PM-7:00PM

BLOOD DRIVE

Knights of Columbus, 2183 Jackson Ave., in Seaford, will be hosting a Blood Drive for the New York Blood Center. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, contact Charlie Barr, 516-510-4703

SATURDAY, JULY 18th

10:00AM-4:00PM

WANTAGH PRESERVATION SOCIETY'S 5TH ANNUAL ANTIQUE CAR SHOW

Rain date Saturday July 19th. On museum grounds 1700 Wantagh Ave, in Wantagh. Cars from the 1960's & older. Entrance fee - $1. Refreshments for sale, museum complex sites will be open, 50/50 , music. For more information, email: wantaghmuseum@gmail.com

THRUJULY 19th

FAIR HOURS: 5:00PM11:00PM weekdays and NOON11:00PM Saturday - Sunday EMPIRE STATE FAIR at Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an

adult age 21+ Enjoy Fireworks by Grucci, midway rides, family entertainment, favorite fair food & more! For more information, please call 866-666-3247 or Empire State Fair

FRIDAY, JULY 24th

7:00PM-11:00PM

DISCO NIGHT

LIVE music by Deverne Williams & The Vintage Soul Band, Buffet dinner, beer/wine/soda, dessert & coffee included. $45 per person. Call Barbara Napoli 631-786-9306 for advance reservations. Brumidi Lodge Sons & Daughters of Italy in America, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park

NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th

TIMES VARY

2026 JONES BEACH BANDSHELL SUMMER CONCERT

The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation is thrilled to announce the 2026 Bandshell Summer Concert Series at Jones Beach State Park! The Bandshell hosts free events at the Field 4 Boardwalk. This event is our way to get people to sing, dance, and laugh with friends and family at the beach. Every night through September 6th (excluding July 1st –July 6th) we have programming for everyone to enjoy. This program is sponsored by the Natural Heritage Trust, WBAB 102.3 and WBLI 106.1 Radio Stations. For the most up to date information on performance status and schedule, please contact Jones Beach State Park at 516-7851600.

June 2026

Dear Chamber Members and Massapequa Neighbors,

As my term as President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Massapequas comes to a close, I want to take a moment to re ect on what an incredible honor it has been to serve this organization for the past two years.

I am so proud of everything we have accomplished together. During my presidency, we introduced several new community events, including our rst Breast Cancer Walk, our rst Trunk or Treat, and what has quickly become one of my proudest accomplishments, the Massapequa St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Seeing our community come together for the second annual parade this past March was truly special, and I know it will continue as a beloved tradition for many years to come.

This year, we were honored to have Massapequa native and Fox News host Brian Kilmeade serve as Grand Marshal of our St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It was a wonderful day for our community and another reminder of how much hometown pride exists here in the Massapequas. We also recently had the privilege of recognizing our Treasurer and longtime Board member, Karen Gawrych, as Grand Marshal of our Annual Street Fair. Karen has dedicated countless hours to our Chamber over the years, and it was only tting that we honor her for her service, leadership, and commitment to our organization and community.

One of the highlights of this year was moving into our beautiful new Chamber office at 511 Ocean Avenue. Our new Manhattan-style building offers a welcoming and safe environment for our members and the community. Having a permanent home for the Chamber and creating a space where businesses, residents, and visitors can connect was something I had hoped to accomplish during my presidency, and I am proud to see it become a reality.

Before I wrap up, I want to mention a couple of projects that are very special to me and that I am excited to see come to fruition. Be on the lookout for our new Chamber multi-business signs, which will showcase several of our member businesses and help increase their visibility throughout the community. In addition, two memorial benches honoring our beloved past Presidents, Patricia Orzano and Anthony Ventiera, will soon be installed at Marjorie R. Post Community Park. These benches will serve as a lasting tribute to two individuals whose dedication, leadership, and love for the Chamber helped shape our organization and community for many years.

Our Chamber membership has grown to over 300 members, the strongest membership in our history. We are also ending the year in the best nancial position we have ever been in. These accomplishments did not happen by chance. They are the result of the hard work, dedication, and passion of our Board of Directors, volunteers, committee members, and Chamber staff. I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of you.

We also expanded our scholarship program, which was something I was very proud to see grow. Helping local students pursue their dreams is one of the best investments we can make in our community. We continued our food and toy drives, helping families during times when they needed a little extra support, and we had the privilege of recognizing the police officers, re ghters, and veterans who do so much for all of us every day.

These are the moments that remind me what our Chamber is really about. It’s not just about supporting businesses. It’s about supporting our community and the people who make the Massapequa’s such a special place to live and work.

The Massapequa’s will always hold a special place in my heart. My husband Andrew and I raised our two boys here, and like so many families, we’ve enjoyed everything that makes this community so special. Being able to give back to the town that has given so much to our family has been one of the most rewarding parts of serving as Chamber President.

I am especially proud that we are ending the year on such a high note with one of the most successful Street Fairs in Chamber history. Our Annual Street Fair is our largest fundraiser and plays a critical role in keeping our volunteer organization strong and nancially stable. The tremendous support from our sponsors, vendors, members, volunteers, and the community made this year’s event a remarkable success and a tting way to conclude an unforgettable year.

Again, I want to extend my sincere thanks to our Executive Board and Board of Directors for your support, dedication, and countless hours of volunteer service. Everything we have accomplished over the past two years has been a true team effort. Your commitment, ideas, and willingness to step up whenever needed have helped make our Chamber stronger than ever. It has been an honor to serve alongside each of you, and I am grateful for your friendship, support, and shared commitment to our business community.

As I pass the torch to my dear friend Sal Polito, who has dedicated over 25 years of service to our Chamber, I do so with complete con dence. Sal’s experience, knowledge, and commitment to our community will ensure that the Chamber continues to thrive and grow. I know the Chamber will be in great hands under his leadership, and I look forward to supporting him and the Board in any way I can as I join the ranks of our Past Presidents.

Thank you to our members, sponsors, volunteers, community leaders, and residents for your support throughout my presidency. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this amazing organization and the community that I love so much.

With gratitude,

Robin Hepworth President, Massapequa Chamber of Commerce

Summer Hazardous Material & Homeowners Cleanup Days

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom Hand announce the Town’s S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) and Homeowners Cleanup Days for this summer, with dates scheduled for weekends in July and August. Residents can drop off materials at the Old Bethpage Solid Waste Disposal Complex, located at 101 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road in Old Bethpage.

S.T.O.P. programSaturday, July 11th &

Saturday, August 8th from 9am – 4pm: collects various hazardous materials, including: asbestos material (double bagged); automobile batteries; automobile tires (with or without rims); brake and transmission fluids; drain and oven cleaners; fire extinguishers; fares; fluorescent bulbs; gasoline; pesticides and insecticides; oil-based and latex paint; outdoor gas grill propane tanks; photo chemicals; rechargeable and button batteries; small aerosol

cans; smoke detectors; solvents; spot removers; thermostats; waste motor oil and antifreeze; and wood preservatives.

“Improperly disposing of products such as waste oil, oven cleaner or paint thinner could contaminate your water supply,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Anything poured on the ground or put into cesspools, storm drains, or recharge systems can work its way down to the aquifer or our waterways.”

Homeowners Cleanup Day – Saturday, July 25th & Saturday, August 22nd from 8:30am – 4pm: collects non-hazardous waste only, including: air conditioners; all e-waste; campers; boats and boat trailers (proof of ownership required - oil, gas, other fluids and batteries removed); clean, broken concrete; large metal items; propane tanks and propane torches; tires; and yard waste.

“With the start of spring, many residents begin to

clean out their yards and may have large amounts of yard waste and other non-hazardous debris to dispose,” said Councilman Hand. “Residents can bring items such as used tires, fence posts, clean broken concrete or yard waste to our Homeowners Cleanup.”

Free Paper Shredding Services - Saturday, July 25th & Saturday, August 22nd from 8:30am –4pm: provides residents an opportunity to destroy unwanted documents

in a safe and secure manner. Residents only, no businesses, can bring up to four bankers’ boxes of paper to the shredding program. The Town’s S.T.O.P. and Homeowners programs are open to residents within the Town’s Solid Waste Disposal District. Proof of residency is required. For more information, including a full list of what is accepted at these programs, visit www. oysterbaytown.com/cleanup or call (516) 677-5848.

Massapequa Elementary Teacher Is A Technology Superstar

A Massapequa School District educator was recently recognized for his exceptional use of technology to support student learning.

Christopher Kiernan, a fifth grade teacher at Fairfield Elementary School, was named a Nassau BOCES NASTAR.

As a Nassau Association of School Technologists Award Recipient, Mr. Kiernan was recognized for his innovation, leadership and support of technology initiatives in Massapequa. He was nominated by Fairfield computer teaching assistant Crissy Mullooly, and was recognized at a reception on June 11.

Mr. Kiernan said that

he uses instructional technology in many different ways, and each year tries to add a new tool. This year, his students used Magic School’s artificial intelligence character chatbot feature to help with research during the biography unit. They interacted with AIgenerated historical figures. Through thoughtful, probing questions, students gained deeper insight into their subjects’ environments, influences and challenges. His students also used Padlet during their novel study to make their thinking visible through interactive discussion posts. Book Creator and Canva are used

to publish presentations and writing projects.

“It is an honor to receive this award,” Mr. Kiernan said, “and being at the awards reception was amazing because I got to hear how other educators in all different roles utilize technology with their students. This award is special to me because I could not have done it without my coworkers.”

Mr. Kiernan thanks Ms. Mullooly and technology learning coach Jennifer Emberley for their support in introducing him to new instructional technology tools, as well as his fifth grade teacher colleagues, who are always available to share ideas with. A

Officials Urge Safe Boating This Summer

Fairfield and Massapequa High School graduate, Mr. Kiernan has worked in the district for 10 years, including the past seven as a fifth grade teacher.

“Known for his enthusiasm and initiative, Mr. Kiernan consistently embraces new instructional technologies as they are introduced, modeling innovation and adaptability for both students and colleagues,” Ms. Mullooly shared in her nomination letter. “His thoughtful leadership and purposeful use of digital tools make him a standout technology innovator and a truly deserving NASTAR award recipient.”

Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with members of the Town’s Bay Constables Marine enforcement crew and National Education Director of Safe Boating America Richard Werner to remind residents of appropriate safety measures that should be taken for boaters and personal watercraft operators ahead of the start of the summer season. Officials demonstrated a variety of lifesaving equipment and encouraged anyone out on the waters to enjoy them respectfully and responsibly.

“Whether traveling in the Great South Bay

or in beautiful Oyster Bay Harbor, we want to remind all residents out on our waters about the importance of safety,”

Supervisor Saladino said.

“I have ordered the Town’s Bay Constables to intensify patrols throughout holiday weekends, such as July 4th and Labor Day, to help prevent senseless accidents. In addition to observing speed limits, all levels of law enforcement will be out to make sure those who are enjoying our waterways are doing so responsibly.”

The Supervisor noted that holidays can often be a dangerous time as drunk drivers can behind the

wheel of a boat the same way they can get behind the wheel of a car, putting the lives and safety of innocent people in jeopardy.

Unfortunately, statistics show an increase of BWI and DWI around holidays, and all are encouraged to take caution.

“Our Bay Constables and other law enforcement personnel will be patrolling the Great South Bay, the Long Island Sound, and Oyster Bay Harbor in an effort stop drunken boaters and keep our residents and waterways safe,”

Supervisor Saladino said. “Remember, if you booze and cruise, you lose!”

Pravato Honors Championship Winning Massapequa H.S. Varsity Teams

Town of Oyster Bay

Tax

Receiver Jeff Pravato recently joined the Massapequa School Board for a special recognition of all the 2026 Championship Title winning Varsity Teams. Teams honored included Girls Varsity Lacrosse (2026 Nassau County Championship Title,) Boys Varsity Lacrosse (2026 New York State

Championship Title,) Girls Varsity Softball (2026 Long Island Championship Title,) Boys Varsity Baseball (2026 New York State Championship Title,) and Girls Varsity Track and Field (2026 Nassau County Championship Title.)

Receiver Pravato stated, “Congratulations to these outstanding studentathletes, coaches, and

parents on an extraordinary year of achievement. As someone who is proud to call this community home, seeing our high school produce so many championship titles across multiple sports is a testament to the longstanding tradition of excellence here in Massapequa. Once a Chief always a Chief!”

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Massapequa Kiwanis Hosts Annual Golf Fundraiser

Continued From 10

the Town of Oyster Bay Golf Course in Woodbury. The event, which serves as the club’s primary fundraising effort each year, brought together golfers, sponsors, and community supporters for a day of friendly competition and fellowship.

Participants enjoyed excellent weather throughout the outing, helping to make the event a tremendous success. Funds raised will support the Massapequa Kiwanis Club’s ongoing efforts to serve local children, families, and community programs.

The club extends its sincere appreciation to its major corporate and individual sponsors, whose generosity helped make the event possible:

Inter County Bakers

Bacaro Italian Kitchen

RER Capital

KMT Electric

Dr. Nicholas Kunda

The McDonough Family

King O’Rourke Cadillac/Buick/GMC for sponsoring the Hole in One

The Massapequa Kiwanis Club also recognizes the support of several elected officials who served as major sponsors of the outing:

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor

Joseph Saladino

New York State Assemblyman

Michael Durso

Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy

Town of Oyster Bay Councilman

Thomas Hand

Town of Oyster Bay Receiver of Taxes

Jeffrey Pravato

The Massapequa Kiwanis Club thanks all sponsors, golfers, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this year’s event and helped further the organization’s mission of improving the lives of children and strengthening the local community.