Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Lou Imbroto, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato recently met with representatives from state and federal
at TOBAY Beach, where the United States Army Corps of Engineers has
dredging project off the Fire
Listening intently, about 80 student leaders from Seaford High School gained perspective on how to be better role models during a presentation from motivational speaker Gian Paul Gonzalez on Jan. 27. The leadership workshop was part of Viking Vision Day, which kicked off the second semester of the school year. The student leaders included student government, class and club
Seaford’s Student Leaders Are ‘All In’
officers, as well as sports team captains. Mr. Gonzalez has spoken to leaders across the country, from Super Bowl champions to Forbes 500 executives. He introduced his slogan, “All In,” to remind students to give maximum effort. A major point of emphasis was reminding student leaders of the impact they can have on the school community by being welcoming to
others.
In one activity, he asked the student leaders to find someone from a different club or sports team, and ask them specific questions. At the end, students were then called on to repeat someone else’s answers to show how well they listened.
All of the students then formed a rectangle around the auditorium. They joined hands and two
New York State Senator Steve Rhoads Celebrates WantaghSeaford PAL Coordinators
On January 23, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads attended the Wantagh-Seaford PAL Coordinators Dinner to express his heartfelt gratitude to the incredible volunteer coordinators. He applauded their unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment to supporting the league and ensuring the league continues to thrive and positively impact the children it serves. Senator Rhoads highlighted how their contributions not only strengthen the bonds within the league but also serve as a foundation for building a more connected, resilient, and vibrant community for generations to come.
of the students held the ends of an energy stick. If the chain of hands was unbroken, the stick would light up. The purpose of this exercise was to show the value of extending one’s hand to another, even if slightly uncomfortable at first.
At the end, Mr. Gonzalez put out shark teeth on a table, asking students to take one for themselves and a few to give to others. The teeth represented resilience, he explained.
“It was very positively impactful,” senior Emily Richardson said of the presentation. “You can help other people become better and find their full potential.”
Emily added that the biggest message for her was to keep trying as persevering through failure ultimately leads to success.
Senior Emma Baldwin said she learned how to help bring out leadership qualities in others, while junior Cameron Calderaro noted the importance of going “all in” by giving her best effort.
“There’s more we can do to encourage ourselves and each other,” said junior Autumn Feitzinger.
The purpose of Viking Vision Day was to give all students opportunities to explore their futures.
Freshmen, sophomores and juniors attended a curriculum fair to learn
about different programs and course offerings, then had sessions with their guidance counselors. Seniors attended an informational workshop about senior awards and scholarships. Mr. Gonzalez also hosted presentations for the student body about building relationships and setting a good example in school.
“The biggest takeaway for our students is to understand they have an opportunity to help each other, even through a small interaction,” Assistant Principal Alex Mantay said. “You can help your classmates and your teammates by doing small things every day.”
Motivational speaker Gian Paul Gonzalez spoke to Seaford High School students during a leadership workshop on Jan. 27 as part of Viking Vision Day. Photos courtesy of the Seaford School District
Student leaders shared information they learned about each other during a listening exercise.
The message of Gian Paul Gonzalez’s workshop was “All In,” reminding students to put their best effort into their endeavors.
Long Island State Park Hosts 2025 Winter Concert Series
The New York Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation invites you to warm up from the Winter cold and enjoy the comfort of fine classical music on Sunday afternoons at the Upper Carriage House at Bayard Cutting Arboretum in Great River, New York.
The 2025 Winter Concert Series performance
schedule is as follows:
March 02 – Quintessence
Laura Mole (Violin), Jody Ratner (Viola), Susan Lehr (Cello)
Parking will be limited and on a first come, first served basis throughout the entirety of this concert series. All concerts begin promptly at 1:00PM. Seating is on first come, first serve basis. The concerts, free to he public, are sponsored by the Islip Arts Council with funding provided by Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Natural Heritage Trust, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 80 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.
Riello
For more information, please call the Islip Arts Council at (631) 888-3525. For information on the day of the concert, please call Bayard Cutting Arboretum at (631) 581-1002.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf
Do-It-Yourself Projects
(NAPSI)—Many homeowners improve their living spaces through redecorating and Do-ItYourself projects. To help, Design House offers a variety of products to empower homeowners to create living spaces they will love. For information visit: www. todaysdesignhouse.com.
Recipe Of The Week: Semolina and Almond Biscotti
Cookiesare a treat any time of the day, and many find biscotti particularly appealing. These crunchy cookies are equally at home with a morning cup of coffee as they are with an evening mug of hot cocoa. Biscotti are hard, crunchy, Italian cookies that are baked twice. In fact, their name comes from the Latin “bis,” meaning “twice,” and “coctus,” meaning “cooked.” Although they can be enjoyed on their own, their dry, crunchy nature makes them hold up well when dunked into a beverage. Biscotti were even once commonly dipped into red wine. Though they might seem complicated, biscotti generally are easy to make. Try this recipe for “Semolina and Almond Biscotti” from “Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy” (Sourcebooks) by Danielle Kartes.
Yields 12 to 16 cookies
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup semolina flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Optional: 10 ounces dark chocolate to melt for dipping
Directions: Preheat oven to 325 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, cream the sugar, butter and eggs until light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and salt. Mix to incorporate. Add the all-purpose flour, almonds, semolina flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix.
Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Pat gently to form one long loaf of dough roughly 14 to 16 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide. Bake 30 minutes.
Remove the loaf from the oven and allow to cool 5 to 6 minutes before using a long knife to cut the loaf gently into 12 to 16 cookies.
Lay each cookie on its side and bake another 20 minutes, flipping the cookies midway through. Cool completely to achieve that signature crunch. The centers will be a bit soft if eaten warm. These are perfect for dunking in coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
Optional: Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts and gently dip half of each biscotti into it lengthwise. Flip the biscotti chocolate-side-up onto a sheet tray and allow the chocolate to set.
Major Sand Project Underway At TOBAY Beach To Restore Shoreline
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Lou Imbroto, Councilwoman Vicki Walsh and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato recently met with representatives from state and federal government to oversee work being done at TOBAY Beach, where the United States Army Corps of Engineers has been replenishing the shoreline through a dredging project off the Fire Island inlet. Contractors have worked around the clock to pump 90,000 tons of sand back to the beach, helping to safeguard the shoreline from storms and tidal surges while also protecting critical infrastructure, including the main pavilion and access roadway.
“Our shoreline has taken a beating over the past few years, as Mother Nature has been relentless
eroding our beaches and putting our infrastructure at risk,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We all know how much TOBAY Beach means to our residents, which is why we’ve worked diligently every summer to rebuild the shoreline by trucking in thousands of yards of clean sand to shore up the coastline. Simultaneously, we knew it was necessary to develop both short-term and long-term solutions, and asked our state and federal representatives for assistance.”
“This betterment project undertaken by the Army Corps of Engineers is a fantastic example of cutting the red tape and finding solutions to restore the shoreline, protect critical infrastructure, and strengthen defensive dunes,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “I
convened the Army Corps of Engineers and the Towns to find a solution for these beaches, and I am happy to see this project— that will revitalize Tobay and Gilgo beaches—get done at limited cost to our towns and taxpayers.”
“This $1.69 million investment in Tobay Beach will strengthen the shoreline, safeguard homes and businesses, and ensure families can enjoy the beach this summer,”
Governor Hochul said. “A more resilient, sustainable coast means stronger communities and a protected natural landscape. My administration stands with Long Island in preserving its future.”
For the past several years, Town officials have spent millions of dollars rebuilding the beach and
stabilizing the dunes against erosion. A critical public access point to the shoreline, TOBAY Beach is located in the middle of Jones Beach Island, a barrier island off the south shore of Long Island. The beach suffered a direct
hit from Superstorm Sandy in 2012, and serves as a critical asset toward protecting the mainland, its property and population. Town officials will continue to push to develop a long-term solution that hardens the
shoreline with additional sand, shields the primary nesting areas of protected species known as piping plover, defends the mainland and continues to provide the public access Long Islanders expect and deserve.
Now Hiring Advertising Account Representatives
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State Utilities takes pride in supplying fuel you need to heat your home and/or office to the comfort level you desire. Winter can be long and brutal, and should your burner fail to start it can become a crucial disaster. It is comforting to have full service during this disruption by contacting us by telephone or Email, no matter what the weather outside.
Celebrating 74 years in business, we are grateful to the many generations of loyal customers who have entrusted State Utilities with their interior comfort. Thank you.
Residents Invited To Submit Photos
For Town Publications
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand invites residents to submit photos taken in the Town of Oyster Bay to be considered for future use in Town publications.
“We accept photos year-round submitted by our residents which depict people, places, community events and scenery throughout our Town,” said Councilman Hand. “We accept photos for the calendar, as well as other Town publications, including our website, social media pages and brochures.”
Public Information Office, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay NY 11771. Residents should make sure their name, address, phone number and brief description of the photo are included with their submission. The photographer is responsible for the correct spelling of the names and subjects in the photos, as well as notifying subjects they may appear in a Town publication.
Councilman Hand noted that photos should be taken within the confines of the Town of Oyster Bay. Digital submissions are preferred, but high-quality photos may also be submitted. Emailed photos should be sent to photos@oysterbayny.gov. Printed photos can be submitted to the Town’s
SHANE’S ANCHOR REALTY
FEBRUARY
FRI. FEB. 21st
5:30PM A DRAGON-SIZED FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
This special family evening is packed with fun dragon-inspired activities and a screening of the heartwarming movie How to Train Your Dragon. Cradle of Aviation Museum ~ Charles Lindbergh Blvd. ~ Garden City. For more information: General 516-5724111 ~ Reservations 516-5724066
6:30PM TRIVIA NIGHT
N. Babylon Lions Club Trivia Night at North Babylon A. Tatti Youth Center, 213 Phelphs Lane in N. Babylon. $35pp includes Prizes, pizza, salad. Raffles and 50/50. RSVP by 2/10 to Diane @ 6315530217 or Judy @ 631-7453007
SAT. FEB. 22nd
10:00AM-11:00AM WILDLIFE WONDERS: FUN WITH FEATHERS Sweetbriar’s experienced educators help open up the wonders of the natural world for children, through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
SUN. FEB. 23rd
1:00-4:00pm AN AFTERNOON WITH ELVIS
HOLIDAYS
2nd - Groundhog Day
14th - Valentine's Day
17th - Presidents' 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 info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Long Island Society of Italian Americans, (LISIA) is having an Afternoon With Elvis at The Malverne American Legion, 240 Franklin Ave, Post 44. $30.00 pp, includes admission, show, coffee and cake and a cash bar. Bring your own snacks, max 10 to a table. Call Diane Langella @ 516777-0607 for reservations.
1:00-6:00pm TAKEOUT PASTA MEATBALL & SAUSAGE DINNER
Babylon Lions Club, Pick-up at Cafe 11 Villaggio, 35 Deer Park Avenue, Babylon Village. All proceeds go to charity. $35 Per Order - Take Out Only. Pre-orders can be placed beginning at 11:00 am for more information, please call 631-422-7037
TUES. FEB. 25th
1:00PM
CARNEVALE CELEBRATION
The Italian Cultural Society of Farmingdale cordially invites you to join them at their February Carnevale celebration. Entertainment and light refreshments. Costumes and/ or masks are encouraged for all attendees. Come join the fun! Allen Park Meeting Room, Motor Avenue in Farmingdale. For more information, please contact ICSF Co-President Aggie Vitale agvit@ aol.com
4:00PM-5:00PM TEEN LIVING WITH WILDLIFE
The Wildlife Center of Long Island is coming to the Babylon Library!
Meet some of their Ambassador reptiles, mammals, and birds that call Long Island home and explore their role in our local ecosystem. Discover why these animals are at the Wildlife Hospital and how you can help others like them. Earn one hour of community service for attending! Grades 6-12. Registration required.24 S. Carll Ave. in Babylon,. For more information, please call Erin White 63-669-1624
6:30PM
BABY SHOWER
The Kiwanis Club of Copiague is having a Baby Shower and will be collecting new clothing, diapers, blankets and many other items a baby needs. Items will be donated to Madonna Heights. Please drop off donations at Red Lobster 801 Sunrise Hwy in Copiague on Tuesday, Feb. 25th. For more information, please contact Lori Prisco 631-495-8755, or Christine Madrazo 631-559-1079
NOW THROUGH FEB. 26th
10:00AM-5:00PM NY FINE ARTS SOCIETY EXHIBITION
1 Flowerfield, Suite 15, St. James. Paintings and prints 18th century to today, Goya, Kollwitz, Dali, PIcasso, Modigliani, and much more, Childen's art WORKSHOP. Admission goes to support the NEW YORK FINE ARTS SOCIETY. For more information, please call Yuka at 631-880-1719
Seaford Launches Scholarship Drive For Class Of 2025
The Seaford Scholarship Fund is kicking off its annual fundraising drive. All residents and businesses are asked to contribute to this scholarship drive, as funds collected will be used to award scholarships to
deserving seniors from the Seaford High School Class of 2025.
If you would like to contribute, please make checks payable to Seaford Union Free School District and send to Seaford High
School at 1575 Seamans Neck Road, Seaford, N.Y. 11783 – ATTN: Ms. Nicole Schnabel, Principal. For more information, please contact Toni Coacci at (516) 592-4385.
Town Announces Public Skating Sessions For School Winter Break Week
Town of Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Lou Imbroto announce that families looking for recreational fun during most school districts’ winter recess need look no further than one of the Town’s Ice Skating facilities, which will offer extended hours throughout the week. The week also marks the last week public skating is available at the Town’s outdoor rinks.
“Families and children looking for a great staycation activity can head over to our ice skating rinks, either outdoors at Marjorie Post Park or SyossetWoodbury Park, or indoors at our Town Ice Skating Center, during special
extended hours for the full winter recess week,” said Councilman Imbroto. “Our rinks provide the perfect setting for residents to enjoy the winter weather.”
Extended sessions run through February 23rd: Wednesday, February 19th
Indoor & Outdoor Rinks: 1pm-3pm; 4pm-6pm; 7pm-9pm
Thursday, February 20th
Indoor & Outdoor Rinks: 1pm-3pm; 4pm-6pm; 7pm-9pm
Friday, February 21st
Indoor & Outdoor Rinks: 1pm-3pm; 4pm-6pm; 7pm-9pm
Saturday, February 22nd
Outdoor Rinks: 1pm-3pm; 4pm-6pm; 7pm-9pm
Indoor Ice Center:
2:45pm-5:45pm
Sunday, February 23rd
(last public sessions at outdoor rinks) 1pm-3pm; 4pm-6pm
Indoor Ice Center: 2pm-5pm
“We invite residents of all ages to enjoy the last days of the winter season at our beautiful ice skating rinks,” said Supervisor Saladino.
“Bring the family to our fun rinks, lace up your skates and get ready for a great time.”
For more information, including admission, hours of operation, the Youth Ice Hockey Program, figure skating or other skating opportunities, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ ice.
Did You Know?
Tea has been enjoyed as a beverage for thousands of years and has featured prominently in many cultures during that time. The cultural practice of drinking tea is believed to have originated in ancient China. Although there are many different types of tea, the World Tea Council says black tea is the most consumed tea across the globe, comprising around 75 percent of total tea consumption. The most popular type of black tea is Assam tea, which is grown in India. The second-most widely consumed tea is green tea, which accounts for approximately 20 percent of total tea consumption.
Kindness Spreads From Heart To Heart
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, student leaders at Seaford Manor Elementary School are setting an example of how to spread kindness and love.
The student council, under the direction of advisers Kristin Nelson and Lisa Perrone, created the give and take wall. One pocket is filled with paper hearts that have inspirational messages, and the other is filled with blank paper hearts that students can take and add their own messages.
Student council members, which include representatives from each fourth and fifth grade class, spent a recent after-school meeting writing positive affirmations on paper hearts. Each heart starts with the prompt, “I love myself because…” followed by the handwritten messages from students.
“It’s a kind thing to do and it’s good for the season with Valentine’s Day,” fifth grader Eliza Bevilacqua said. “We want to inspire others to be kind.”
“It’s motivational,” added fellow student council member Kaitlyn Schneider. “If you’re feeling down, it can cheer you up.”
The give and take wall is located in a well-traveled hallway, so all students can give and get kindness. This is the second year the student council has spearheaded the initiative, as they decided to bring it back after it was such as success last year.
The Seaford Manor Elementary School student council created the give and take wall, spreading kindness with paper hearts full of positive and uplifting messages. Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District
