TOWN UNVEILS NEW HISTORICAL SIGN - Officials unveil new signage at the historic Fort Massapeag, the only archaeologically documented Native American fort in Nassau County. Supervisor Joseph Saladino (center) and Councilwoman Laura Maier (third from right) joined with representatives of the Massapequa Historical Society and Massapequa School District in recognizing Dr. John DiMarco (fourth from right), who researched and outlined the history of this site so all residents can be aware of its significance.
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Town Unveils New Historical Sign for Indigenous Fort Massapeag
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Laura Maier, joined by Massapequa School District and members of the Massapequa Historical Society unveiled new signage at the historic Fort Massapeag, the only archaeologically documented Native American fort in Nassau County. The location, under control of Algonquian people in 17th century, served both colonial and indigenous interests in the 1600s. It was preserved as a passive parkland by the Town in the 1950s.
“Many who live on Long Island may be aware that this land was inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years, and that many of our communities are named for or by the respective tribes that once lived here – but they may not be aware just how significant certain areas may be,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This location specifically was a unique and strategically important site known as Fort Massapeag, which served a dual purpose by both colonists and indigenous people.”
The Supervisor explained that the fort served a dual purpose, as archaeological evidence shows that the location was used as a Dutch tradition post, built at the request of Sachem Tackapausha for the safety of the Massapeag and European people, and to act as a trading post. Although the fort was built with European resources, it was ultimately under the control of the Algonquian people during the 17th century.
The property, although subject to pilfering and the removal of many artifacts, was protected from development thanks to interested parties and local historians for many years. In the 1930s, most of the area was sold for construction of the large residential development known as Harbor Green, and historians successfully convinced developers to preserve this area of land.
In the early 1950s, the Town of Oyster Bay stepped in, agreeing to preserve the property, leading to its purchase in 1958.
“This site has such an interesting history, and now all who pass through here can learn of its great importance,” said Councilwoman Maier. “We’re pleased to unveil this new educational tool that allows residents of all ages to be a little more connected to those who came before us.”
The Fort Massapeag area was used for many years as a passive park, with many in the community having no idea of its amazing historical significance. That changed in 1993 when it was officially designated a National Historical Landmark.
“Even then, when a small sign identified this as an Indian fort in the area known as Fort Neck, not many in the neighborhood understood what actually happened here,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Dr. DiMarco is changing all that, bridging us with our past and providing all who go through his area with the story of this land.”
Dr. DiMarco, a professor at St. John’s University who published a book outlining the history of Fort Massapeag, created a website and QR code so residents can view the extensive past of the site. He also created and donated a new sign depicting the QR code at the site. The unveiling was attended by Town officials, several representatives of the Historical Society, local neighbors, and school district officials including Superintendent Dr. William Brennan.
“With just one click, we can all go back to the 1600s and even earlier to learn how those who came before us utilized this land,” said Supervisor Saladino.
“Although this area has certainly changed, this site continues to connect us to an era long gone that played an integral role in Massapequa’s story.”
Officials unveil new signage at the historic Fort Massapeag, the only archaeologically documented Native American fort in Nassau County. Supervisor Joseph Saladino (center) and Councilwoman Laura Maier (third from right) joined with representatives of the Massapequa Historical Society and Massapequa School District in recognizing Dr. John DiMarco (fourth from right), who researched and outlined the history of this site so all residents can be aware of its significance.
Veterans Benefits Information Seminar
Nassau County Legislator Samantha A. Goetz, in partnership with County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency, is hosting a free Veterans Benefits and Information Seminar for veterans and their family members to be briefed on a variety of available benefits and other important veterans’ information. The event will be held on Monday, May 11, starting at 11:00 a.m. at the Syosset-Woodbury Park Community Center, located at 7800 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury.
“Long Island is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the country so I am pleased to be cohosting this event that will provide important information that our veterans and their families are eligible to receive,” said Legislator Samantha A. Goetz. “Our Veterans Service
Agency does a great job helping the men and women who proudly served get the benefits they deserve so I thank them for all of their efforts.”
Among the topics to be covered include briefings on VA disability compensation, aid and attendance benefits, VA survivor and dependent compensation, veterans’
burial benefits and more.
Veteran counselors will be present to answer questions and schedule follow-up appointments.
“Our veterans are true American heroes, and it is our responsibility to ensure they and their families receive every benefit they have earned through their service and sacrifice. By
hosting this seminar, we’re making it easier for veterans to access the resources, support, and information they deserve,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.
Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency at (516) 572-6565.
MAY HAPPENINGS
SATURDAY, MAY 9th
8:00AM
MOTHER'S DAY PLANT SALE
(rain or shine)
The West Islip Beautification Society (WIBS) invites you to their annual Mother's Day Plant Sale on the Saturday before Mother's Day. Sale continues until supplies run out. They are celebrating America's 250th birthday by including many red, white, and blue flowers. The sale is in front of Pine Lake on Montauk Highway in West Islip - just 1/4 mile east of Robert Moses Causeway (between McCall Ave. and Lake View Ave). For more information, please email westislipbeautification@gmail.com.
10:00AM-4:00PM CRAFT FAIR
Indoor — Outdoor/Rain or Shine Vendors Call 631-977-1242. Community Presbyterian Church 1843 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please call Dennis Murphy at 631-977-1242
SATURDAY, MAY 9th
SUNDAY, MAY 10th
10:00AM-5:00PM
EISENHOWER PARK CRAFT FAIR
Eisenhower Park Field 8, 8 Park Boulevard in East Meadow. Art Craft & Gift Vendor Fair. Family shopping fun. a greaqt way to spend the day. for more information, please call 516-442-6000, www. nassaucountyfairs.com
THURSDAY, MAY 14th
6:30PM FASHION SHOW
At the Giovanni Caboto Lodge #2372, Order, Seaford American
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
Legion, 2301 Penatiquit Avenue. Great raffle prizes, the latest fashions, music, a wonderful dinner, dessert and more. The purpose of this fundraiser is to raise money to continue to support the many charities they sponsor, plus award scholarships to several of our local high school students. For further information/reservations please contact Rosemarie DiChiara at 516458-0097.
SATURDAY, MAY 16th
10:00AM-2:00PM
MBS GARDEN SHOW RETURNS!
The Mayor's Beautification Society of LIndenhurst is happy to announce the return of their Garden Show featuring fun activities for the children, presentations plus giveaways and a plant sale! For additional info or questions, email us at LINDENHURSTMBS@GMAIL.COM
8:30PM-2:00PM SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 4th ANNUAL FUN RUN/WALK
The Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, warmly invite you to lace up, show up, and stand out as a valued partner at the 4th Annual Sprint into Spring 5K Fun Run/Walk. Hosted on the breathtaking 212-acre Brentwood campus. Families, local leaders, businesses, and supporters will come together in support of the Sisters mission, programs and services.
The event is on Brentwood Campus 1725 Brentwood Road, Brentwood. Enjoy ZUMBA, DJ, Breakfast boost stations, Vendors, BBQ food, Bouncy houses, raffles, and so much more. For more information or to pur-
The Sayville Garden Club, will be hosting their annual Spring Luncheon at Land's End in Sayville, 80 Browns River Rd. in Sayville. Raffle selections will be viewed from 10:00 am to 11:15 am, speaker at 11:30 am, and luncheon to begin at 12:30 am. The guest speaker will be Karl Auwaerter who is the manager and co- owner of the Bayport Flower Houses in Bayport. Tickets for the luncheon are presently on sale. Checks can be payable to the Sayville Garden Club and sent to Sayville Garden Club, P.O. Box 301, Sayville, NY 11782 by May 8th For more information, please call 631-567- 2561, sayvillegardenclub. com
7:00PM-9:00PM
LONG ISLAND'S NATURAL HISTORY
The Historical Society of Islip Hamlet hostsTara Rider and her presentation "Long Island's Natural History" which examines the Island's natural history, from salt marshes, cranberry bogs, forests and Hampstead Plains - our Island has been continually shaped. The program will be held at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Ave. Program is free and open to the public. For more info: www. isliphamlethistory.org, 631-5592915
Free Concerts In Local Libraries
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Steve Labriola announced today that the Distinguished Artists Concert Series will conclude in May with the final two free performances at local libraries.
“The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Councilman Labriola. “I encourage residents to take advantage of these wonderful performances
offered by the Town for free at local libraries.”
Scheduled performances:
• Gathering Time on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Massapequa Public Library –Performing songs of hope, freedom, and conscience.
• Rusty Spur on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Jericho Public Library –Blending modern country songs with traditional country classics. Open to all. Free Tickets required. Two tickets per person.
Tickets available at the library beginning January 26th. For more information, contact the library at (516) 935-6790. The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For the full concert schedule and further information, please call (516) 797-7900 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com/CAPA.
Town Hiring Counselors For Special Needs Summer Camp
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Andrew Monteleone announced that the Town is hiring counselors for the summer GAP program, a day camp designed for developmentally disabled children and young adults ages 5-21. The camp runs from June 29th to August 7th at two locations- Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa, and Syosset-Woodbury Park in Woodbury.
“The Town’s GAP Program provides a unique socialrecreational experience for developmentally disabled individuals, encouraging socialization in a group setting,” said Supervisor Saladino. “With the support and encouragement of our excellent staff, participants develop friendships that extend well beyond the program.”
“By becoming a counselor for the Town’s GAP program,
you’ll help to create a supportive and empowering environment where every camper can shine,” said Councilman Monteleone.
“Join us this summer to build lasting connections, provide unforgettable experiences, and make a difference; apply today!”
Available job positions and requirements include: Activities Specialist:
Bachelors Degree in Special Education 1,600
hours working with people with special needs OR
Bachelors Degree (any subject)
2,080 hours working with people with special needs
Recreation Aide:
At least 16 years of age
For more information and to set up an interview, applicants can call the Handicapped Services Division at (516) 797-7947.
Beach Parking Stickers Available Beginning May 9th
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board today announce that seasonal beach parking sticker sales and the free distribution of stickers to senior citizens and the disabled will begin on Saturday, May 9th. The Oyster Bay Town Board has restricted beach access to residents only.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “Break out the beach towels and sunscreen because summer is just around the corner, and so are our beach sticker sales! The Town of Oyster Bay is a true staycation destination offering some of the best beaches in the world. By purchasing a beach sticker in advance, you can avoid the inevitable lines that often accompany the start of the beach season and spend more time with your feet in the sand.”
stickers will be available for purchase daily from 8AM to 4PM at Tappen Beach in Sea Cliff, and in Bayville at Charles E. Ransom and Stehli beaches. To purchase a beach parking sticker for your vehicle, residents must present a valid NYS driver’s license with residency in the Town of Oyster Bay, their vehicle registration, and bring the vehicle they plan to drive to the beach. Parking stickers are placed on the vehicle at the time of purchase. Only residents may purchase beach parking stickers for Town of Oyster Bay beaches. Beach parking stickers are $70, which pay for themselves following three visits.
FREE PASSES FOR SENIOR CITIZENS:
show their driver’s license and get a free day pass.
FREE PASSES FOR DISABLED/SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS: Residents who are permanently disabled or receive social security can acquire a free beach parking pass by showing their Notice of Award Letter or Handicapped Parking Permit issued from the Nassau County Department Office for the Physically Challenged, alongside with a valid driver’s license showing residency in the Town and vehicle registration. A parking sticker will then be adhered to the vehicle.
DISCOUNTS FOR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS &
Beach parking stickers will be on sale beginning Saturday, May 9th, from 10AM - 2PM daily at John J. Burns Town Park in Massapequa, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay and at TOBAY Beach. Beginning Saturday, May 23rd, beach parking stickers will be available for purchase on weekends only from 8AM to 4PM at Centre Island Beach in Bayville and Philip B. Healey Beach at Florence Avenue in Massapequa. On Saturday, June 27th, beach parking
Volunteer Fire Service
(NAPSI)—Many fire departments are looking for volunteers to step up and serve their communities, reports the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the national association for the volunteer fire service. For more information about the volunteer fire service and to find an opportunity, visit www.MakeMeAFirefighter. com.
Town of Oyster Bay residents aged 60+ can obtain a free parking sticker by presenting their driver’s license with Town residency and their vehicle registration. After receiving the sticker, senior residents must be present in the vehicle for entry on each visit. If visiting the beach in another vehicle, seniors can
VETERANS:
Town of Oyster Bay volunteer firefighters, active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces, and veterans’ quality for beach parking passes at reduced rates. For more information, please call the Town of Oyster Bay Parks Department, Beaches Division, at (516) 797-4111.
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THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how to get started? Call today and one of our experienced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let us at SOUTH BAY'S NEIGHBOR NEWS PAPE RS set up an adv ertising program for you. Y ou'll be glad you di d! Call 631-226-2636, ext. 276
power of CLAS SIFIED!
Springtime Sparks Fresh Learning
Students are growing their knowledge through spring-themed lessons at Fairfield Elementary School in the Massapequa School District.
Third graders in Alyssa Yablansky’s class used the change in season as a spark for an opinion writing project. They had to write a piece on whether or not class should be held outdoors more often in the
spring and included at least two reasons to support their claim. Students also drew a picture and practiced writing more engaging opening sentences. In FLES, fourth graders explored their favorite warm-weather activities while also increasing their Spanish fluency. Teacher
Julianne Masterson gave each student a paper flower to write down their top
two choices from a list that included playing baseball or soccer, riding bicycles or scooters, planting flowers and more. They then went around the room and had conversations in Spanish to find classmates with the same spring interests. Students gave each other a high-five when they made a match.
Fairfield Elementary School third graders wrote opinion pieces on whether or not class should be held outdoors more often in the spring. Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Registration For Summer Youth Tennis Program Begins May 11th Online
Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced the return of Youth Tennis Programs for Summer. Held at SyossetWoodbury Community Park, Ellsworth Allen Park in Farmingdale, and Haypath Park in Plainview beginning on Tuesday, June 30th, the program will feature 6-week sessions for boys and girls ages 5-15. This instructional program is designed to teach kids the fundamentals of tennis in a structured setting, as well as help improve individual skills.
“This program is a great opportunity for children with no prior tennis experience to learn the fundamentals of tennis directly from some of the area’s finest coaches,” Councilwoman Walsh said. “I encourage those interested to register and take advantage of this opportunity to expose your children to a new sport and potentially discover a new passion.”
Lessons available for registration include:
• Syosset Woodbury ParkMondays & Wednesday
o 5-6 year olds: 4:00 p.m.-
4:50 p.m.
o 7-9 year olds: 5:00 p.m.5:50 p.m.
o 7-9 year olds: 6:00 p.m.6:50 p.m.
o 10-11 year olds: 7:00 p.m.- 7:50 p.m.
• Allen Park- Tuesdays & Thursdays
o 5-6 year olds: 4:00 p.m.4:50 p.m.
o 7-9 year olds: 5:00 p.m.5:50 p.m.
o 7-9 year olds: 6:00 p.m.6:50 p.m.
o 10-11 year olds: 7:00 p.m.- 7:50 p.m.
• Haypath Park- Tuesdays
o 12-15 year olds: 4:00 p.m.- 5:50 p.m.
o 12-15 year olds: 6:00
p.m.- 7:50 p.m.
Registration will be available at www. oysterbaytown.com/sports beginning Monday, May 11, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. The resident fee is $100, and residents must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and their child’s birth certificate. The non-resident fee is $125. Participants must be 5 years old at the start of the program, bring their own rackets, and wear sneakers (all other equipment will be provided). All sessions are weather permitting. If a class is cancelled, makeup day(s) will be attempted. For more information or to apply to be a tennis assistant, please call (516) 797-7943.
Saladino Seeks Nominations For Veterans Volunteer Awards
Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board invite residents to help shine a spotlight on local heroes by submitting nominations for the Town of Oyster Bay’s annual Veterans Volunteer Awards. Honorees will be recognized during the Town’s beloved ‘Salute to America’ Celebration on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at John Burns Park.
This annual tribute celebrates the extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond in service to our veteran communitythose who continue to make a lasting impact through compassion, advocacy, and selfless dedication.
“‘Salute to America’ is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our
veterans and the importance of those who continue to stand beside them,” said Supervisor Saladino.
“Each year, we are proud to recognize individuals whose unwavering commitment strengthens and uplifts our veteran community.
I encourage residents to nominate someone who truly deserves to be honored for their outstanding service.”
Nominations are accepted in two categories:
• Veteran Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a veteran)
• Friend of Veterans Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a nonveteran)
All nominees must be Town of Oyster Bay residents.
Submissions must include a brief narrative outlining the nominee’s ongoing contributions to veterans’ causes. The deadline for nominations is Friday, June 5, 2026.
Award recipients will be honored during a special ceremony at the ‘Salute to America’ Celebration— an unforgettable evening featuring live musical performances and a spectacular fireworks display, held in gratitude for the brave men and women who have protected our nation’s freedoms.
To submit a nomination or request an application, visit oysterbaytown.com/ vetnominations or email kfileccia@oysterbay-ny.gov, or call (516) 797-7925
Fourth graders Matthew Shenderovich, left, and Nikolas Maronitis had conversations in Spanish to compare their favorite spring activities.
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HOME FINANCING
Town & Environmental Partners
Harvest
Kelp From Local Waterways
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with members of the Town’s Environmental team to harvest kelp from Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, together with local environmental partners. The Town, Friends of the Bay and Cornell Cooperative, each harvested lines of kelp to use in helping improve water quality in Oyster Bay. Additionally, through a new partnership with the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club, local youth participate in kelp harvesting to achieve a hands-on experience in marine conservation and sustainable environmental practices.
“The Town of Oyster Bay’s kelp harvesting program has resulted in the cultivating and harvesting of thousands of pounds of sugar kelp from our north shore marinas,” explained Supervisor Saladino. “Kelp farming is a sustainable practice that enhances biodiversity, provides habitats for marine life, and improves water quality by reducing excess nitrogen and carbon in the ecosystem. The harvested kelp is repurposed as a nutrient-rich fertilizer for Town parks and gardens, promoting eco-friendly practices throughout the community.”
Each winter, kelp lines are planted at marina locations in Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, Tappen Beach and TOBAY Beach, as well as in Oyster Bay Harbor and Cold Spring Harbor Conservation Management Areas. for prime cultivation periods until spring months when it gets harvested. Since the inception of the program, the Town now successfully grows over 3,000 feet of kelp – the equivalent of 10 football fields. For more information regarding this program and other environmental initiatives, visit www.oysterbaytown.com or call the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943.
