Issuu

South Bay's Neighbor

Saladino Honors North Massapequa Firefighters

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino recently attended the North Massapequa Fire Department’s Annual Installation

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.

Supervisor Saladino

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.”

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

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

Would you like to subscribe to our newsletter?

Yes: No:

JULY HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8th

7:00PM

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: STRAWBERRY FIELDS –BEATLES TRIBUTE

FRIDAY, JULY 10th

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: SOMETHIN' FRESH

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

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

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.

ne of Our Convenient

Bayshore: 180 East Main Street, 1st Floor

Babylon: 400 West Main Street, Suite 106

Bethpage: 4070 Hempstead Turnpike

Babylon: 400 West Main Street, Suite 106

Visit One of Our Convenient Locations:

Bethpage: 4070 Hempstead Turnpike

Bayshore: 180 East Main Street, 1st

Massapequa Imaging: 1220 Hicksville Road Room I-12

Massapequa Park: 5165 Merrick Road

Babylon: 400 West Main Street, Suite 106

Seaford, NY 11783 Office: 516-266-3447

Massapequa Park: 5165 Merrick Road

Bethpage:

Massapequa

Massapequa Park: 5165 Merrick Road

Fax: 516-266-3491 Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm Saturday: 7:30am-1:00pm

Ready for your lab test?

Book Appointments &Find Locations: Visit nwhlabs.northwell.edu/locations for Booking/ Locations. Walk-ins are always welcome!

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.

With gratitude,

Robin Hepworth President, Massapequa Chamber of Commerce

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.

will be continuing his education at Utica University this fall. He is the son of Tara and John Frucci and the grandson of Sharon and Tom Fattoruso. Sharon is a former President of the Copiague Chamber of Commerce. Wishing Jon Luca all the best as he begins this exciting new chapter!

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

Continued On 14

Massapequa Kiwanis Awards Scholarships To Six Outstanding Graduates

The Massapequa Kiwanis Club recognized six exceptional graduating seniors during its annual scholarship presentation ceremony held on Wednesday, June 24, honoring students for their outstanding commitment to community service and volunteerism. 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 Falta, Frank Padavan, Danna Sarmiento Aguilar, Meghan Walsh, Olivia Guttman, and Christian Hardiman. Walsh,

Guttman, and Hardiman were unable to attend the ceremony.

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.”

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

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.”

Fairfield Elementary School fifth grade teachers Christopher Kiernan was recently presented with a NASTAR Award by the Nassau Association of School Technologists. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District

LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?

Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL

experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276

THE power of CLAS SIFIED!

TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.

Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276

TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you. GET YOUR AD NOTICED! Ca ll Our Classifi ed Dept. 631-226-2636 press “2”

TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.

CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS! Call toda y! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646

TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.

Celebrate The Start Of Summer

THINKING

The summer solstice offers the most hours of daylight all year. According to Space. com, the summer solstice occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt toward the sun. The summer solstice falls on June 20, 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. The 2026 summer solstice (first day of summer) in the Northern Hemisphere is Sunday, June 21, 2026. The longest day of the year and the beginning of astrological summer is a source of celebration for many people. Come the summer solstice, the warm weather stabilizes and there are more days of sunshine and mild temperatures. Summer also is a season for school breaks and family vacations, representing additional reasons to look forward to the summer solstice. People can commemorate the start of summer in many different ways, including these fun ideas.

• Plan a hike. With

ext. 276

a greater number of daylight hours, the solstice is the perfect time to head outdoors and enjoy the sights. There’s no need to rush, as the sun sets late in the evening, giving those who have to work or attend school earlier in the day an opportunity to enjoy a hike after signing off.

• Take a photo. Make it a tradition to take a “first day of summer” photo each year to catalog the years going by. Everyone can pose in their favorite summer garb or get coordinating t-shirts.

• Change the decor. The first day of summer is a perfect time to change a home’s decor to reflect bright, summery details. Pull out bright throw pillows, switch to citrus or coconut-scented candles to establish a beachy mood and fill a bowl with limes, lemons and oranges for an easy summer centerpiece.

Summer Hazardous Material & Homeowners Cleanup Days

Continued From 11

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 ServicesSaturday, 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.