Time to unveil this exclusive waterfront. Let this be your opportunity to own a turn-key modern mansion, perfectly positioned on .75 acre within the sought after Oak Neck Estates.
• Overlooking the Great South Bay.
• In-Ground Gunite Pool
• 6-Car Garage
• Boat-notch with permitted Rail System
• Movie Theatre
• 15 Minute Boat Ride to Fire Island
Mastering The Market - From Manhattan
With over 1 Billion in closed sales, the Colombos-Dooley Team delivers unparalleled expertise to the luxury real estate market. Ranked among the top 0.1% of agents nationwide, Nick Colombos, Angela Dooley, and their elite team leverage diverse professional backgrounds in finance, real estate investments, and interior design to provide clients with a distinct strategic advantage. Angela and Nick navigate every market from Manhattan to Montauk, securing record breaking sales in West Islip, Sands Point, Kings Point and many others across the Island. If you’re looking for an elevated, seamless real estate experience and want to showcase your home to have maximum exposure, with a sophisticated marketing plan - The Colombos-Dooley Team is your clear choice. We look forward to hearing from you.
10-11 Spring Happenings
EDITOR IN CHIEF/PUBLISHER
Joanne Lifavi
ART DIRECTOR
Jennie Alberto
CO-EDITOR
Ashley Brown
INTERN
Lily Targuino
PHOTO CREDITS
Vinny Gonzalez, Photographer
Beauty Mark Bridal Studio Cover and p.5 (Cover Story)
Lessing’s Weddings p. 18, Draped Ceiling Detail
Mille Foglie p. 18, Manhattan Sweets Boutique Bakery
Bridal Suite of Bay Shore p. 20, Gowns Pictured
Connor Bruno p. 28
Spring Happenings (p. 10-11)
We encourage readers to verify event details before attending, as dates and times may be subject to change.
ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIPS
For advertising opportunities or to connect with us.
917.559.7821
joanne@thelistmagazine.com
VIEW ALL ISSUES OF THE LIST MAGAZINE issuu.com/thelistmagazineli
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @TheListMagazineLI
18-19 Wedding Trends
9, 11–18 Dining Guide
COVER
5 Beauty Mark Bridal Studio Come Get Ready with Us
MUST KNOW
9 Peter Pan Diner: Welcome Back Together Again 18-19 A Look at Weddings; Wedding Trends
20 Bridal Suite
22 Amerigo International Students
28 Outdoor Living
MUST GO 10-11 Spring Happenings
RECIPES
24 In-Season Asparagus, Simply Delicious Recipes Cucumber Mint Mocktail
DINING GUIDE 9, 11-18
REAL ESTATE 2-3, 26-31
Welcome Spring – we missed you.
We’re stepping into the season that reminds us why we love living where we do. With the frigid winter behind us, our island wakes up in color again, and there’s a renewed energy you can feel.
As the season unfolds, waterfront restaurants welcome us back, alfresco dining returns, menus refresh, and shops fill with new arrivals.
We’re back with a look at weddings this issue. Whether you’re planning a wedding or attending one this year, there’s something about them everyone loves. Inside, you’ll meet wedding professionals and venues who bring every detail of the day together. We had fun speaking to them and exploring the latest trends to share with you, and for the fashion-conscious, we have the scoop on what to wear as a wedding guest this spring and summer.
In every issue, we get up close and personal with local businesses, sharing their stories so you can get to know the people behind them. Curious? Keep reading.
For those who enjoy keeping an eye on the real estate market, our trusted realtors showcase exceptional waterfront and luxury homes. And if you’re thinking about your own space, the home professionals featured bring curated design and craftsmanship to every detail.
Our Instagram keeps you updated on new events, restaurant features, and local finds.
Published four times a year, The LIST Magazine is a lifestyle magazine for the Great South Bay coastal communities. Most of our distribution is mailed from Babylon to Great River, south of Montauk Highway, and to all of Brightwaters. In addition, our magazines are available for pick- up in shops throughout our local villages and, in the summer months, on Fire Island at select markets and restaurants.
We hope this issue finds its place on your coffee table, an easy reference for our event calendar and dining pages, and even a pretty seasonal accent, so we’ve been told.
And as we look ahead to Mother’s Day, we honor all mothers and celebrate the nurturing spirit of women who show up with love, strength, and care in countless ways. We also take a moment to reflect on both Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day, honoring those who serve and those we remember.
Here’s to savoring those special moments, both big and small, that make us happy. Enjoy.
Come Get Ready With Us
A Luxury Bridal Studio Designed for Your Wedding Morning
The early hours of your wedding day often become some of the day’s most cherished memories. The ‘clink’ of champagne flutes, laughter among bridesmaids, a first reveal that brings Dad to tears.
On Main Street in East Islip, Beauty Mark Bridal Studio was created with those moments in mind. It’s a private, thoughtfully designed space for brides to gather with the people they love most and begin their wedding day feeling calm, celebrated, and completely present.
The Wedding Morning, Reimagined For founder Susan Halbert, the idea grew naturally from years spent helping brides prepare for their biggest moments.
With more than three decades in the beauty industry, Susan and her team have traveled everywhere from Montauk, Manhattan, Hilton Head, Poughkeepsie, and Vermont — to name a few — arriving before sunrise to style bridal parties wherever the morning unfolded. Hotel suites, venue rooms, and sometimes even kitchen tables became makeshift beauty stations as excitement filled the air.
The artistry was always there. But over time, Susan began to imagine something more intentional…something the industry was truly lacking.
Wedding mornings deserved a space designed just for them. A place with natural light, room to breathe, and a setting beautiful enough to match the significance of the moment.
That vision eventually led to a complete reimagining of Beauty Mark’s East Islip studio.
Today, the newly renovated Beauty Mark Bridal
Studio offers a luxurious destination where brides and their closest friends can gather, celebrate, and prepare for the day ahead.
A Space Designed for the Moment Reserved for one bride at a time, the suite creates an intimate yet spacious environment that can comfortably welcome up to twenty-five guests. Every detail was designed with intention.
Chevron flooring provides understated elegance while layered lighting and soft cream tones create a warm glow throughout the room. Natural light fills the suite, making it ideal for robe photos, gown portraits, and those emotional first looks with family.
A dedicated vanity area gives the bride her own beautifully lit space, and a floor-to-ceiling mirror reflects the room and enhances every photograph. A special nook holds the wedding gown, softly illuminated where it becomes the centerpiece of the space.
Comfortable lounge seating and a bar setup create space for champagne toasts and quiet conversations as the morning unfolds. Lessing’s Bayberry Café offers curated catering options that make the experience feel effortless and convenient. The Beauty Mark team also helps coordinate the morning’s timeline, from hair and makeup start times to photographer arrival and transportation to the ceremony, allowing brides to stay fully present in the moment while every detail unfolds seamlessly around them.
The Team Behind the Magic Established in 2010, Beauty Mark was ahead of its time, offering a wide range of beauty services under one roof, with bridal artistry always at the heart of Susan’s vision.
Today, the Beauty Mark team includes fifteen highly skilled artists, stylists, and aestheticians who share a passion for helping clients feel their most confident and beautiful. The studio proudly serves as the exclusive hair and makeup vendor for Lessing’s venues across Long Island and is also a preferred partner at celebrated locations including Giorgio’s, Flowerfield’s, Teller's Next Door, and Land’s End. Beauty Mark has also received The Knot’s Best of Weddings award for eight consecutive years.
While the newly designed bridal studio now offers a private destination for wedding mornings, the Beauty Mark team continues to serve the community with its full-service salon and skincare studio, including microblading and massage. Services are ever evolving, with Beauty Mark offering group makeup classes as of April 2026. And for brides who prefer on-location services, the team still travels from Montauk to Manhattan and beyond.
Because the hours before you walk down the aisle deserve a setting just as beautiful as the celebration itself.
Welcome Back Together Again at Peter Pan, Then, Now, and Years to Come
After a nearly two-year closure following a devastating fire, the beloved Peter Pan Diner in Bay Shore is welcoming the community back. Long known as a local favorite, Peter Pan returns completely reimagined with a modern new look, an updated menu, and a clear sense of purpose.
Peter Lentzeres, the son of Gus—who first opened the diner in 1950s—tells us the business has always been rooted in family. Peter began working there in his early twenties alongside his father and uncles, learning every part of the business from the kitchen to the dining room floor before eventually taking it over with his brother.
While classic American diners once dotted nearly every town, many have faded over the years as restaurant trends changed and newer dining concepts emerged. Yet Peter Pan seemed to defy that trend. Long before the fire, the diner remained a busy and reliable gathering place, known for its broad menu, welcoming atmosphere, and loyal regulars who came back week after week.
When the fire forced the diner to close, Peter had a choice. He could have gone in a completely different direction. Instead, he chose to rebuild Peter Pan as a diner, but one designed for today.
That vision is clear the moment you walk in.
The new space is completely redone and beautifully elevated, yet it still holds onto the
character of the original. The booths remain. The counter, still the heart of the room, now functions as both a classic diner counter and a bar-style gathering space. Classic touches, including the terrazzo tile at the entrance, nod to the diner’s history while the overall design feels fresh, modern, and intentional.
Working closely with his designer, Peter created an interior that feels sophisticated without losing its warmth. Subtle colors and details, including elements inspired by the Peter Pan name, give the space a distinctive personality while keeping the atmosphere tasteful and inviting.
What makes the new Peter Pan so special is that it remains a traditional diner. You can see it in the layout, the seating, the counter, and the comfort of the space itself. But it has been elevated, refined, and thoughtfully brought into a new century.
It is a diner reimagined for how people want to gather today.
Families, couples, and solo guests can all find a place here, whether they are sitting down for a full meal or lingering over
coffee. The menu, too, reflects that next chapter, balancing the familiarity people have always loved with fresh updates that give diners something new to look forward to.
More than anything, Peter Pan’s return feels like the return of a place people missed.
And now, a Bay Shore classic begins again.
SPRING HAPPENINGS
Circus Vazquez: Big Talent
Under the Big Top Tent
APRIL 10–20 | SHOWTIMES VARY
Bay Shore, South Shore Mall
APRIL 24–MAY 11 | SHOWTIMES VARY Lake Grove, Smith Haven Mall
Crowd-pleasing performances with trapeze artists, acrobats, dancers, and clowns for all ages. circusvazquez.com
Waterdrinker Tulip Festival
MID-APRIL THROUGH EARLY MAY
Two farms: Manorville, 663 Wadin River Road; Riverhead, 4560 Sound Avenue. Pick your own flowers. Live music, food, animals, photo setups. water-drinker.com
6th Annual Kite Festival
SATURDAY APRIL 25 | 10AM–5PM
Overlook Beach, Town of Babylon Parks. A colorful day of kite flying. Bring your own or purchase one onsite. ilovebabylon.com
Arbor Day Celebration
SATURDAY, APRIL 25 | 10AM–1PM Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Great River. A free, family-
friendly event with nature activities and educational fun. Bayardcuttingarboretum.com
Long Island Restaurant Week
APRIL 26–MAY 3
Enjoy prix fixe dining with a twocourse lunch for $24 or threecourse dinner $29/$39/$46. For a list of participating restaurants: longislandrestaurantweek.com
9th Annual Long Island
Beauty Ball
MONDAY, APRIL 27 | 6–10PM Villa Lombardi’s, Holbrook
An evening of elegance and empowerment in support of Mondays Cancer Care, featuring live entertainment, dining, dancing, raffles and more. Mondayscancercare.org/ li-beauty-ball
Annual Raffle Basket Auction
Presented by the Babylon Chamber of Commerce
THURSDAY, APRIL 30 | 6-9PM
The Piermont 494 Fire Island Ave, Babylon. Hundreds of baskets, food for purchase, cash bar.
Fire Island Lighthouse Call 631-583-5901 for reservations. fireislandlighthouse.org
15th Annual Montauk Music Festival
MAY 14-17
Four days of original music performances from rock to reggae. Over 400 performers, 100 acts, 40 satellite venues. Free except opening party and main stage. montaukmusicfestival.com
Brightwaters Spring Thing Block Party
SUNDAY, MAY 17 (ALL DAY)
The Four Corners, Brightwater Village DJ, live music, vendors, and activities for the kids. villageofbrightwaters.com
Pickles & Paws
SATURDAY, MAY 30 | 11 AM–5 PM
Southaven County Park, 761 Victory Avenue, Yaphank NY’s largest animal adoption and pickle festival, with pet adoptions, a doggie fashion show, vendors, food trucks, and live music. picklesandpaws.com
Great South Bay YMCA 5K Run/Walk in Memory of Judi
SATURDAY, MAY 30 (RAIN OR SHINE) | 8:30AM
200 W. Main St., Bay Shore events.elitefeats.com/25ymcajudi
FAMILY STYLE RESTAURANT
Waterdrinker Manorville Lavender Festival
SATURDAY, JUNE 6 & SUNDAY, JUNE 7 | 10AM–6PM
Stroll a fragrant lavender oasis with live music, food trucks, and local vendors. water-drinker.com/lavenderfestival
5th Annual Babylon Village Pride Parade
SUNDAY, JUNE 7 | 3PM
Babylon Village celebrates Pride Month, kicking off at Main St. & Deer Park Ave. prideofbabylon.org
Bay Shore Arts Festival | SUNDAY, JUNE 14 | 11AM–6PM
Main Street, Bay Shore. A family-friendly day of art, featuring local artists, vendors, live music, plus a petting zoo and pony rides. BayShoreChamberofCommerce.com
Famous Food Festival | JUNE 19–21
Tanger Outlets, Deer Park. Featuring 100+ vendors, global eats, live music, spirit samplings, and family-friendly fun. famousfoodfestival.com
LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS
Meet local farmers and select food vendors.
Bay Shore Farmers Market is Back at The Bandshell
FRIDAYS STARTING MAY 22 | 3–7PM
Islip Farmers Market
SATURDAYS STARTING JUNE 6 | 7AM–12PM
Islip Town Hall Parking Lot, 655 Main St, Islip
Babylon Village Farmers Market
SUNDAYS STARTING JUNE 7 | 8AM–12:30PM
The Babylon Village Gazebo, 244 West Main Street, Babylon
Whether you’re planning a private dinner, wedding celebration, corporate event or special occasion, our catering brings rened cuisine and thoughtful presentation to every event.
Available for Private Parties on Saturday & Sunday afternoons (minimum 30 guests).
For more intimate gatherings, we offer a Private Dining Room (up to 15 guests).
Bridal Showers ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Baby Showers ~ An Intimate Wedding Venue Liz will be happy to help plan your special occasion!
BARRIQUE KITCHEN AND WINE BAR
69 Deer Park Ave., Babylon Village
631-321-1175 • barriquekitchenandwinebar.com
Enjoy small plates meant for sharing in charming brick-and-timber quarters. Rustic food, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, thin-crust pizzas, pan pressed sandwiches, mini-desserts, and a large selection of wines by the glass, full or half bottle, as well as craft cocktails & beer. Host a private party or group event
130 West Main Street, Babylon Village 631-669-9224 • postofficecafe.com
For over 40 years, The Post Office Cafe has been a beloved Long Island favorite, renowned for its juicy burgers, signature cocktails, and friendly, welcoming staff. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a special celebration, the family-friendly atmosphere promises a memorable experience every time.
LUNCH • DINNER • BRUNCH • BAR • HAPPY HOUR • TAKEOUT ENTERTAINMENT • CATERING • DELIVERY
View offers dockside dining with breathtaking views of the Great South Bay. Enjoy a seasonal menu featuring the freshest land and sea specialties, including the island’s finest lobster rolls and refreshing rum punches. LUNCH • DINNER • BUFFET BRUNCH
Experience the authentic taste of Thailand at this cozy new art gallery restaurant in Babylon Village. They offer a diverse menu that includes lobster pad thai, aromatic curries, Angus beef basil, and Thai-style chicken wings.
LUNCH • DINNER • BAR • TAKEOUT • CATERING Lunch Special, M-F 12-3pm • Happy Hour, M-F 4:30-6:30pm Live Music, Fri & Sat 5:30-8:30pm
GOLDY’S GEMS
5 Third Avenue, Bay Shore 631-665-9596 • goldysgems.com
A timeless bar featuring cozy leather couches and a quality sound system, Goldy’s is a place to bring people together. Offering an extensive selection of local beers, killer house cocktails and creative bar food, it’s the perfect spot for a mellow hang with friends, a late-night bite, hosting an intimate private party, or just letting go and dancing yourself clean.
DINNER
BAYBERRY
501 Main Street, Islip 631-210-0011 • bayberryislip.com
An American bistro in the heart of Islip, embodies a seaside spirit and features private event space accommodating over 100, where guests can toast to creative cocktails during their popular weekend brunch and indulge in a locally inspired menu.
• DINNER
AMERICAN GASTRO-PUB
Lessings Events - Off Premises
Manhattan Sweets Boutique Bakery, Millie Fogile
A Look at Today's Weddings
Over the last few years, there’s been a noticeable shift in how weddings are celebrated, with couples making more intentional choices than ever. Traditional moments are still part of it, but they’re no longer expected. Instead, couples are choosing what feels like them.
The focus has shifted toward the guest experience. Weddings feel more interactive and connected, not something you simply attend, but something you’re part of. There’s more movement, more shared moments, and a different kind of energy you notice as soon as you walk in.
One of the biggest shifts is a more elevated cocktail hour experience. Lessing’s Weddings highlights the evolution of strolling cocktail stations, where traditional setups are reimagined as “mini meals” guests can enjoy while mingling. There’s also a growing demand for mobile-style service, with passed desserts, signature cocktails, zeroproof options, and even cannoli or gelato served right on the dance floor. The goal is to keep guests engaged without needing to sit down or wait in lines.
Wedding cakes are taking center stage in new ways. Manhattan Sweets shares that while classic tiered cakes still hold strong, there’s a rise in on-site, interactive cake experiences that replace the traditional presentation.
“One of the most popular is the Mille Foglie, assembled live in front of guests, often right on the dance floor. The bride and groom finish it with powdered sugar as a ceremonial moment, and guests love being part of that live experience.”
Couples are also paying closer attention to how the space is designed and how it feels to be in it. Soft draping adds warmth and intimacy, used as both backdrops and ceiling installations. Lessing’s Weddings adds that flowing chiffon fabric is often paired with Italian ruscus greenery to create a soft, romantic canopy above the celebration.
Unconventional seating is evolving as well. Serpentine table designs are having a moment, with their S-shaped curves adding movement and a dramatic visual element, while a similar “caterpillar” layout uses round tables in a flowing pattern, ideal for more intimate spaces.
Lighting is taking on a more intentional role, with warmer, ambient tones replacing traditional uplighting. Spaces are dimmed for a softer, more intimate dinner setting, then shift as the dance floor fills and the energy builds. Overhead elements draw the eye upward, while projections turn walls, ceilings, and even the dance floor into a canvas for changing visuals, from soft, immersive scenes during dinner to more dramatic moments later in the night.
Entertainment is evolving, with couples moving beyond the traditional DJ or band and instead combining both to create a more layered experience. Pairing a DJ with live musicians, such as saxophonists, percussionists, or violinists, adds a new level of energy and keeps the dance floor active throughout the night. It’s not just about the music, but how the experience builds from one moment to the next.
Lessing’s Weddings notes that this combination works well in venues of all sizes, bringing energy and excitement to the dance floor.
In looking at today’s weddings, one thing feels clear. If you’re lucky enough to be part of one, you’re in for something truly special, and you’ll feel it from the moment you walk in.
Now, What to Wear: Wedding Guest Attire
Wedding fashion in 2026 feels a bit more elevated, with a nod to vintage-inspired glamour.
Capes and statement sleeves stand out, adding a dramatic yet polished feel. You’ll also see dresses designed with coordinating scarves or wraps, giving you the option to change the look throughout the night. The drop-waist dress is making a return, sitting lower on the hips to create a longer, more relaxed silhouette with a timeless feel.
Fabrics play a big role this season. Jacquard and brocade instantly add texture and a more luxurious look without feeling overdone.
Pleated skirts continue to be a favorite. They’re classic, flattering, and not going anywhere anytime soon. Ruffles are another detail showing up, adding a softer, more playful touch.
While florals remain a staple for spring, there’s also a shift toward richer color. Expect to see bold jewel tones, and for cooler months, deeper palettes like royal purple, slate blue, and black with silver accents.
As you’re planning your look, take a moment to check the wedding website or invitation. Dress codes are more considered than ever and often set the tone. In the end, the best outfit is one that feels like you, fits the setting, and lets you enjoy the celebration.
Full Circle Moments at Bridal Suite
A BELOVED BAY SHORE BRIDAL TRADITION CONTINUES.
“There’s a moment when a bride finds her dress,” says Andrea, the new owner of Bridal Suite. “Her mom, her sister, her best friends are all there, and you see their faces light up before she even says anything. It’s this incredible moment of love and support. Being part of that never gets old.”
Moments like these have unfolded inside Bridal Suite for decades. A familiar name to many Long Islanders, the Bay Shore boutique has helped generations of brides prepare for their walk down the aisle since opening its doors in 1970 under founder Doris, later joined by her daughter Gina.
Today, the beloved Main Street salon begins a new chapter.
Andrea first walked through the doors as a teenager in 2002 while shopping for her prom dress. Two years later, while attending college,
she returned as a part-time employee helping with stock and assisting stylists.
“I fell in love with the store, the gowns, and the women I worked with,” she says.
Over the years she worked in nearly every part of the business, from reception and sales to assisting in alterations, eventually becoming manager and helping lead the salon day to day. So when Gina approached her in 2022 about becoming a partner and eventually taking over the business, the idea felt both surprising and natural. On January 2, 2026,
Andrea officially stepped into the role of owner, carrying with her the lessons and inspiration of the two women who built the store before her.
“Doris taught me how to run a beautiful showroom and hold high standards,” she says. “Gina encouraged creativity and growth. I think about them every day. My goal is to keep their legacy alive and make them proud of what they built and what I will carry on.”
Today Bridal Suite continues to focus on what it has always done best: helping brides find the dress of their dreams, as well as gowns for mothers of the bride or groom that feel just right. The salon also carries veils, headpieces, and accessories, and connects clients with trusted seamstresses across Long Island who specialize in bridal tailoring. And they’re always showcasing the latest fashions.
But what truly defines the shop is the atmosphere Andrea and her team have created.
“We want every bride to feel welcomed, relaxed, and celebrated,” she says. “When you walk into Bridal Suite of Bay Shore it’s like walking into a friend’s home. We welcome every type of bride and every type of vision. Each client has a personalized one-on-one experience with a knowledgeable stylist, private dressing room, and the ability to walk the showroom and pick out gowns together. And sometimes the moments come full circle. “We love hearing, ‘My mom bought her wedding dress here, and now I am too.’”
For a boutique that has been part of so many Long Island wedding stories, it’s a reminder that some traditions continue in the most beautiful ways.
Gowns pictured are available at Bridal Suite.
Still a Land of Opportunity
International students are discovering opportunity at St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, thanks to Long Island families who open their homes and their hearts.
For many families on Long Island, the story of how their ancestors arrived in America is a well-known, valuable part of their personal and familial history. Generations ago, relatives came through places like Ellis Island carrying little more than hope, determination, and the belief that opportunity could be found here.
That belief, and those stories, are still alive today. And they certainly resonate with Emily, who runs Amerigo Education's international program—including the host family network—at St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School in West Islip.
"Like many others, my great-grandfather came through Ellis Island from Sicily," she explains. "He was poor. He bussed tables at a restaurant, and lived above that restaurant, his whole life. He never even learned English. But his son, my grandfather, went one step further and eventually owned a restaurant. Each generation built on what came before, and that eventually led to me and to this work."
At a time when the conversation around immigration has become so charged, it’s easy to lose sight of the individuals and families for whom America is still simply the land of opportunity.
Today, students from around the world are coming here to pursue a piece of their dreams—to learn and to work hard. These students arrive through a formal education visa process, fully documented and prepared for the academic commitment ahead, drawn by the opportunities they believe America can provide. Through Amerigo Education's partnership with St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, international students gain a high school education while preparing for future university studies. Perhaps even as important, they become part of the local community through families who welcome them into their homes. That cultural exchange is a positive force for all involved.
"These are bright, driven, determined young people. But strip away the academics and the ambition, and what you find is simply this: a teenager, far from home, far from all they know and love, and what they need most is a soft place to land," Emily says. These students are bravely leaving behind all that is familiar to them for the sake of education.
When a family opens their home and makes these students feel truly welcomed, something shifts. That sense of security grounds them. It is what allows them to be successful in their studies, what inspires them to engage in our culture and give back to our society, to become truly woven into the American melting pot rather than just passing through it.
And when you give them that, you would be amazed to see how they open up, how they make you laugh, how they dream, and how they are, after all, just teenagers trying to grow up well. "They need more than just a place to stay," Emily says. "They need a home."
Meet three Amerigo international students
James is a St. John's graduating senior who plans to attend Indiana State University to study business. "When we first talked about why he chose to come to the United States rather than stay in Korea," says Emily, "he explained that students there often attend school from 8 a.m. until almost 10 p.m., with homework besides, and a single college entrance exam that determines much of their future. 'There are more opportunities here, more ways to be successful,' he told me. 'More universities, more majors to study, and more possibilities. That is why they call it the American Dream.'"
Daniel, a tenth-grade student from Spain, came to St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School for the experience rather than a long-term goal. However, he so strongly prefers the education he is receiving to that of Spain that he has decided to remain longer and hopes his family will eventually be able to join him as well.
Celina, from Vietnam, cites the quality of life and work opportunities here as her reason for coming to the United States. Her family hopes she will be able to have a better way of life here than she did at home, and her motivation is similar to that of many of her friends. She intends to become a high school teacher.
To learn more about becoming a host family, scan the QR code, visit amerigoeducation.com/become-a-host-family or contact Emily Burke at emily.burke@amerigoeducation.com
We Watch Over
Long Island Businesses
Businesses throughout Long Island need a trusted legal resource they can turn to for sound and affordable legal representation. That ’s why businesses have come to rely on Bellavia Cohen for 38 years.
A Q&A WITH THE COLOMBOS-DOOLEY TEAM
Luxury real estate agents Nicholas Colombos and Angela Dooley of Compass have built their careers working in some of the region’s most sought-after markets, including the North Shore, the Hamptons, and New York City. Yet their passion for the South Shore’s coastal communities drew them here, where they see tremendous opportunity and lifestyle value.
Working as a team means double the insight, double the attention, and maybe even double the fun. We asked Nicholas and Angela to share how their partnership came together, what makes their dynamic click, and what sparked their passion for the South Shore lifestyle.
Q: How did the two of you first become a team?
Angela: It’s actually a pretty funny story. Nick and I started out as neighbors and quickly became great friends. When it came time to sell my home, asking him to be my real estate agent was an easy choice - I already knew he was incredible at what he did, so it was a total no-brainer.
As time went on, we realized our skills complemented each other perfectly. I brought my background as a CPA and interior designer, while Nick had the expertise of a seasoned real estate investor and agent. At one point, he mentioned he was looking for a partner and asked if I might be interested.
Naturally, I decided to test out my negotiation skills and said,
“Only if I can be a 51% partner.” He laughed - and just like that, our partnership was born.
Q: Some people joke that working with you is “two for the price of one.” Do you think that’s a fair way to describe the dynamic?
Nick: Actually, we like to say it’s an entire powerhouse for the price of one. When you hire us, you are getting our combined expertise, our “work husband and wife” dynamic, and the dedicated support of 12 specialized agents which means you get an entire team committed to turning your real estate dreams into reality.
Q: If someone from your childhood would describe you, what would they say you are like?
Angela: If someone described me as a child, they’d probably say I was creative, competitive and full of energy. I’ve always loved tennis, fashion and jewelry, and have been naturally intellectually curious. Most of all, I’ve always loved being around people and making connections.
Q: How did you start selling homes on the south shore?
Nick: About five years ago, a dear friend entrusted us with listing their stunning waterfront home in West Islip. Knowing that we specialize in luxury real estate—and that we are licensed in NYC, the Hamptons, and Long Island— they were confident we could bring a broader perspective to the marketing and sale of their home. They were seeking a fresh perspective: a Hamptons lifestyle without the Hamptons price tag. That single opportunity marked the beginning of our journey, during which we went on to set sales records for waterfront homes, sell a significant share of the area’s luxury waterfront properties, and introduce our city buyers to the unmatched beauty of the South Shore.
Q: You hold recordbreaking sales in areas like West Islip, Kings Point, and Sands Point. What is the secret to marketing a luxury waterfront home?
Angela: The secret to marketing luxury waterfront homes is really about telling the story of the lifestyle they offer. It’s not just about the home - it’s about the experience of living on the water, from boating and sunsets to the peaceful views that make these properties so special. We’re fortunate enough to have access to an incredible marketing team, along with the best tools and distribution available to agents. By combining that with our lifestyle focused approach, the marketing for the homes we list has proven to be extremely successful.
Q: Who inspires you most, and why?
Nick: My most meaningful inspiration were my parents. My parents were real estate investors in Queens and began investing in multi family properties back in the early 70s. With a small downpayment of 5% and very little funds remaining, they were able to acquire their first 62 unit garden courtyard property. Rents were only $345.78 per month for a 1 bedroom and $590.17 per month for a 2 bedroom unit. After many years of managing the properties and tenants needs we were able to expand my parents dream into a larger portfolio. Today, the property is still with our family and were able to build on our real estate portfolio by adding townhomes in the West Village and Harlem. Always remembering my parents perseverance is what inspires me everyday.
Q: Real estate is a 24/7 job. When you aren’t negotiating deals,where can we find you enjoying the communities you serve?
Angela: I’ve always had a deep love for the water, which is part of the reason I’m so passionate about selling beautiful waterfront homes on the South Shore. Some of my favorite memories are out on the boat with my family. I’ve been boating on the beautiful waters of Long Island my entire life, and there’s just something special about that lifestyle that I love sharing with my clients.
Q: Ultimately, what is the most rewarding part of this profession?
Nick: The most rewarding part of this profession, by far - is the happy results for our clients after a successfull closing.
A NEW SEASON.
A New Standard for Long Island.
Spring is the season of renewal—the perfect time to plant the seeds for your next chapter. After 20 years as a local market leader, Diane is proud to bring her deep Long Island roots to Compass. By pairing her deep local roots with the industry’s most advanced technology, she’s bringing a fresh perspective to every transaction.
Spaces That Live as Well as They Look
The most desirable homes today extend their living space beyond the walls, with outdoor areas that feel just as curated as the interior. Thoughtful layouts that connect pool, patio, and lounge spaces create a natural flow, enhancing both everyday living and long-term value.
Here, the clean lines of the pergola frame a relaxed, layered lounge setting, while the pool feels fully integrated into the design. The result is a space that feels open, connected, and beautifully balanced.
Today’s pool design is as much about ease as it is about aesthetics. Homeowners are embracing smart automation, energy-efficient systems, and saltwater options that simplify maintenance and enhance everyday use. Many of these features can be added to existing pools, allowing the property to evolve over time without the need for a full redesign.
Prep Now, Sell Faster: Spring Market Tips From Your Local Realtors
Maria Flyntz
c.631.838.6730
“Now is the time of year to get those flowerbeds ready for the Spring and Summer seasons! Clean up last year’s debris, turn over the soil, and add some soil amendments. Cool-season annuals/vegetables such as pansies, sweet peas, spinach and snap dragons can be planted now to get a jump start on your growing season.”
“Take a look at your front door, welcome mat, molding, and walkway leading to your front door. This is the first impression of your home to outsiders, make it memorable! “
Kristi Piotrowski
c.718.877.5331
“Spring into brightness! Make your home shine this season by maximizing natural light and updating your lighting fixtures. Open curtains and blinds to let sunlight in, replace any dim or outdated bulbs, and clean all light fixtures for a fresh, inviting glow. A bright home feels more spacious and welcoming, helping it stand out and add instant charm!”
“Clean out your air purifiers with a leaf blower to remove built-up dust and debris. It’s a quick way to improve airflow and keep the air in your home feeling fresh and clean for potential buyers.”
Matthew Classie
c.631.255.2832
“Your “curb appeal” is your first impression. Plant those flowers and throw that mulch. Your home can’t be hidden by overgrown hedges. Less is more for sure.”
“Take a few minutes to check your roof and clear out those gutters. Removing leaves and debris helps prevent water damage and keeps your home looking well-maintained as you prepare for the spring market.”
Even in today’s unpredictable market, the luxury real estate segment continues to perform at an exceptional pace and my most recent luxury home sales are a testament to that strength. Through strategic pricing, targeted marketing, and a carefully curated presentation, these distinguished properties captured immediate attention and generated strong competitive interest.
Discerning buyers remain highly motivated and are acting with confidence when the right opportunity presents itself. When a luxury home is properly positioned in the market, it can move with remarkable speed often meeting or exceeding expectations.
While the broader market may feel uncertain, the luxury sector continues to present remarkable opportunity. With the right strategy, expertise, and approach, exceptional results are not only possible, they are being achieved.
