LET THE GAMES BEGIN!
Long Island Special Olympics Spring Games Coming To Plainedge!
Save the date, May 3, 2025. The Long Island Region of Special Olympics New York has partnered with Plainedge Public Schools in planning its Spring Games. The Plainedge Athletic Complex located at Plainedge High School is set to host the competition.
The Spring Games expect over 400 athletes, 100 coaches, and thousands of spectators and volunteers. Plainedge Public Schools will host track and field events, powerlifting, and tennis at The Plainedge Athletic Complex - Edward A. Byrne Memorial Field. Farmingdale School District generously offered Plainedge Public Schools the opportunity to host the swimming events at their Aquatic Center located at Howitt Middle School.
We value our comprehensive Special Education Programs in Plainedge and are very
proud of our K-12 Best Buddies Program, Unified Sports, and Challenger Sports. We are excited about the opportunity to host an event of this size with such a broad range of competitions showcasing Plainedge student athletes, as well as student athletes from the entire Metro area.
Plainedge School District has begun to reach out to community members to help take part in this event, which will be held on May 3, 2025. Those interested can help in three ways. The first will be through the volunteer effort of getting the facility ready leading up to the event and then helping clean up and get the facility back to normal. Second, the district will rely on local vendors to help establish the Olympic Village. Specifically, the district will be looking for vendors to provide games and workshops for participants. Third, the
Special Olympics will be looking for donations to help get the event running.
We appreciate your participation in advance. We would not be able to run an event of this magnitude without significant volunteer efforts. Plainedge is such a great place with an amazing community that always comes together when needed. So please sign up now and join us in our drive to make this day an amazing day for all participating.
Visit https://bit.
ly/SpecialOlympics
Volunteer2025 to sign up for volunteer opportunities.
For more information about the Plainedge Union Free School District, please visit the district’s website at www.plainedgeschools.org
Follow us on social media @plainedgeufsd to stay updated on the event!
Plainedge School District - Where Everyone Achieves!
The Athletic Complex at Plainedge High School
Photo courtesy of Mark Design Studio
Daytime view of the Athletic Complex at Plainedge High School
Photo courtesy of Mark Design Studio
Nighttime aerial view of the Athletic Complex at Plainedge High School
Photo courtesy of Mark Design Studio
Return Of Arena Football To Long Island With New York Dragons
Recently, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads joined Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, and members of the community to celebrate the return of arena football to Long Island. The team is bringing back a fan-favorite name, the New York Dragons! The Entertainment Football Association (ENTFLA) has selected Long Island, New York, and the Coliseum as its fourth and final location for its inaugural 2025 season. Starting this
May, ENTFLA will launch a unique professional football entertainment series, featuring an impressive level of play from former Division I, II, and III college athletes. These players are looking to extend their careers and catch the eye of scouts from higher levels of football, including the CFL, UFL, and NFL. From pre-game tailgate parties to thrilling halftime performances, this event will bring excitement, economic development, and entertainment to the community.
MARCH HAPPENINGS
THURS., MARCH 27th
6:30PM-9:30PM MUSIC BINGO FUNDRAISER
The Seaford Historical Society will host a fundraiser, Music Bingo, at the museum. The event is $25 per person, which includes 2 bingo cards. There will be raffles, door prize and a 50/50. Coffee and water will be available. The museum is located at 3890 Waverly Ave. in Seaford. Tickets can be purchased at their website seafordhistoricalsociety.org/ music-bingo. Seating is limited. For more information, please call Judy Bongiovi at 516-783-8629
FRI., MARCH 28th
10:00AM-1:00PM
FIND YOUR TREASURE SALE
Simpson UMC Presents A Find your treasure sale. Clothing $5 a bag. New Clothing $3 a garment, Household Items, Children’s clothing, toys and furniture, Small animal needs. Something for everyone! Simpson UMC, 30 Locust Avenue in Amityville. Call Mary for more information 516-991-8098
SAT., MARCH 29th
8:30AM-11:30AM
HECKSCHER STATE PARK
MARATHON, HALF MARATHON & 5K
1 Heckscher State Parkway, Field 6 in East Islip. Rain or Shine. Boston Qualifier Marathon and USATF Certified 5K and Half Marathon! The course is fully stocked with water and nutrition stops. The course is on fully closed park roads. This is one
HOLIDAYS
9th - Daylight Savings Begins
17th - St. Patrick's Day
20th - Spring Begins
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
of the 1st Marathons & Half Marathons of the spring - come run a well supported event at Scenic Heckscher State Park! Each runner will receive a longsleeved shirt & a finisher medal! For more information, please contact Brendan Dagan 516-5313323
SUN., MARCH 30th
12:00PM-5:00PM NORTH BABYLON LIONS CLUB DART TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER
Sand City Brewery, 150 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. $39pp to play, includes cold foods and cash bar. $15pp to be a guest, includes cold foods and cash bar. Raffles, 50/50. Come join the fun and support one of their causes. For more info https://www.ourgroupline.org/ TheLionsClubofNorthBabylon/ or contact gail315@optonline.net
2:00PM FREE MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
Echoes of Sinatra at the Hicksville Public Library – Keeping the “Sinatra” memory alive! 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.
THROUGH MARCH 30th
8:00AM-6:00PM
FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW AT HICKS NURSERIES
100 Jericho Turnpike in Westbury. Free Event. Spring is in the Air at Hicks Nurseries’ 35th Annual Flower & Garden Show! Escape the chill of winter and step into spring as you discover eight unique gardens in full bloom. For more information, please call 516-334-0066
11:00AM-4:00PM
MONSTER MAYHEM SCAVENGER HUNT
At The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday through March 30. Cost: Free Event. For Kids. Search for monster-themed artifacts hidden throughout our exhibits in this legendary scavenger hunt. Discover them all and win a finger puppet monster to take home! For more information, please call Cristina Ainslie at 631-367-3418
MON., MARCH 31st
7:30PM
BABYLON CHORALE AUDITIONS
The Babylon Chorale will hold auditions starting with rehearsal at 7:30pm at Sisters of St. Joseph Brentwood Campus, Building 5 All voice parts are welcomed. For further information, visit www.babylonchorale.org or email info@babylonchorale.org
The Massapequa School District will be conducting a survey of parents of kindergarten through fifth grade students who attend the Massapequa elementary schools to determine if there is any interest in a school breakfast program. If insufficient interest is determined, an exemption to participate in this program will be requested by the board of education to the New York State Education Department.
Parents and taxpayers are asked to share their concerns regarding the district’s survey and exemption request by contacting the Massapequa Food Service office in writing at Massapequa Administration, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, N.Y. 11758 or by phone at (516) 308-5745.
LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
PUBLISHER
Jeff Lambert
ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER
Diana Lambert
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Josh Marlowe
MANAGING EDITOR
Felicia Edwards
MARKETING MANAGER
Noelle Lambert
CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION
Joe Lambert
Ethan Keattikul
ADMINISTRATION
Teri Tinkler
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Victoria Kokolakis
Stephan Schulze
PROOFREADING
Kerry Mastrobuoni
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Carol Link
Bob Liquorie
Nicole Sims
Kim Volz
Bonnie Schifano
Lucille Moran
Terry Rydyzynski
Noelle Lambert
SCAN
Now Accepting New Applications For 9/11 Walls Of Honor
Memorial Honors Victims Of 9/11- Related Illness
Supervisor Joseph Saladino today announced that the Town of Oyster Bay is accepting applications for families to add the names of loved ones to the 9/11 Walls of Honor. This memorial pays tribute to residents and individuals with ties to the Town who lost their lives due to 9/11-related illnesses, including cancers linked to toxic exposure at Ground Zero. Each September, newly inscribed names are unveiled, ensuring that these heroes and their sacrifices are never forgotten.
“The 9/11 attacks took thousands of lives in an instant, but the devastation didn’t end that day,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We continue to lose first responders,
downtown workers, residents, and students to illnesses caused by toxic exposure. Each week, more brave individuals succumb to these 9/11-related conditions. Just as rescue and recovery workers rushed to Ground Zero without hesitation, we honor their legacy by ensuring their names and sacrifices live on.”
According to the World Trade Center Health Program, nearly 43,000 individuals are currently receiving treatment for 9/11-related health conditions, with over 10,000 cases of cancer linked to exposure at the site. Tragically, more than 2,500 responders and survivors have lost their battle with these illnesses.
The 9/11 Walls of
Honor were established through the leadership of Supervisor Saladino, the Town Board, and a dedicated volunteer committee, including retired FDNY EMS Lieutenant Bill Gleason, retired NYPD Detective Tom Luberto, Deacon Dave White, Jericho Fire Commissioner Frank Sammartano, North Massapequa Fire Commissioner Ralph Raymond, Massapequa Fire Commissioner Justin McCaffrey, and Rescue & Recovery Worker Joseph Pinto.
Families interested in adding a loved one’s name to the 9/11 Walls of Honor can download an application at www. oysterbaytown.com/ wallsofhonor.
DAVE’S PAINTING
Councilman Hand Announces NY Islanders Street Hockey Clinic
In partnership with the New York Islanders, Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand invites boys and girls interested in learning hockey to a special Street Hockey Clinic at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa. This 6-week program will introduce children aged Pre-K through 5th grade to the game of hockey in a non-competitive and instructional clinic.
Councilman Hand stated, “We’re pleased to partner with the New York Islanders to offer this incredible program to boys and girls of all skill levels. This unique clinic is the perfect opportunity to develop skills in stickhandling and shooting, build confidence, and have fun on and off the rink!”
The program begins April 9th and meets on Wednesdays at the following times by age:
Pre-K – K: 5:30 pm- 6:15
pm 1st & 2nd Grade: 6:15 pm- 7:15 pm
3rd- 5th Grade: 7:15 pm8:15 pm
Registration fee is $165 per child. To register and for more information, please visit www. newyorkislanders.com/ streethockey.
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwords. See this puzzle and its answers at longislandmediagroup.com/wordsearch
Recipe Of The Week: Celebrate Passover With Homemade Charoset
Passover
is steeped in tradition. Many of these traditions involve symbolic foods which tell the story of the Israelites and their miraculous exodus from Egyptian slavery. One such food is charoset (also spelled haroset), which symbolizes the mortar the Israelites used to build bricks when they were slaves in Egypt. Charoset is a fruit relish used on small sandwiches made from matzoh and bitter herbs. The bittersweet taste is supposed to teach the bitterness of bondage and the sweetness of freedom. Passover celebrants can make their own charoset by following this recipe, courtesy of Israel My Glory magazine.
Directions:
Makes 15 tablespoons 1 large apple, any variety 1⁄2 cup chopped nuts 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Small amount of lemon juice (optional)
Charoset is part of the traditional Passover seder plate
The easiest method is to put the apples and nuts into a food processor and pulse until finely diced. Sprinkle enough lemon juice on the mixture to keep the apples from turning brown. Then mix in the other ingredients. Some people also mix in a little grape juice or wine. The recipe is very forgiving, so the measurements do not have to be exact.
Volunteers Wanted For Dune Grass Planting Day
Love the beach? Help protect it! Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Vicki Walsh invite residents to take part in the Town’s annual Dune Day on Saturday, March 29th, at 10 a.m. at TOBAY Beach.
This hands-on environmental initiative helps stabilize beach dunes by planting dune grass, which serves as a natural shield against storm surges and erosion. Strong dunes
mean a stronger coastline, protecting TOBAY Beach for generations to come.
“Our Dune Stabilization Project brings together volunteers of all ages in a meaningful effort to protect and preserve our beautiful shoreline,” said Supervisor Saladino. “It’s a great opportunity for students, Scouts, and nature lovers to make a real difference while enjoying the outdoors.”
Dune Day is a fun and rewarding experience for
families, school groups, and environmentally conscious residents. Volunteers will work alongside Town officials and crews, learning firsthand how simple actions can have a lasting impact on coastal preservation.
Councilwoman Walsh added, “This is a fantastic way for the community to come together and make a lasting impact on the environment. The planting of dune grass not only helps protect our beach, but it also builds awareness of the importance of coastal conservation.”
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - Beauty Unveiled NY
No early registration is required - just show up and dig in! To register in advance, visit www.oysterbaytown. com/volunteer. For more information, contact the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943 or email environmental@oysterbayny.gov.
The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce hosted a Grand Opening ribbon-cutting ceremony for their Chamber member, Beauty Unveiled NY. Congratulations to owner Stephanie Kaufman, a seasoned beauty expert, on this exciting milestone! Stephanie’s passion for brow artistry and commitment to providing personalized services shines through in her work. At Beauty Unveiled NY, Stephanie offers a wide range of beauty
and boost their confidence.
of our experi enced 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 HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT? Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276
LANDSCAPE DESIGNER (West Babylon, NY) Prep graphic representations or drawings of proposed plans or dsgns. Prep site plans, specs, or cost estimates for land dvlpmt. Analyze data on conditions such as site loc, drainage & soil, structure loc for envrmt’l reports & landscaping plans. Dvlp mktg materials, proposals, or presentations to generate new work opportunities. Research latest products, technology, or dsgn trends to stay current in the eld. Bachelor’s Deg in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Architectural Technology, or in a rltd eld reqd. 6 mos exp. in the job o d or as a Landscape Architect is req’d. M-F, 40 hrs/wk. $77,230.00/yr. Send resume to Guvanch Jygayev, President, GMS Construction Group guvanch@gmsnyc.comInc, 428633N032625
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
BUYING? SEL LING? RENT ING?
Place your ad in the Classi fieds 631 -2 26-2636 Ext. 27 6 CALL NE IGHBOR NE WS PAPERS to place your classified ad. 631-226-2636, Ex t. 276
BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?
Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?
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CALL NE IGHBOR NE WS PAPERS to place your classified ad. 631-226-2636, Ex t. 276
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS!
Call today! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646
THE power of CLASSIFIED!
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
Town Launches ‘Trees For Tomorrow’ Poster Contest For 4th Graders
Calling all young artists and environmentalists! Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Andrew Monteleone are excited to announce the return of the Town’s Environmental Poster Contest, open to all 4th grade students in the Town of Oyster Bay. This year’s theme, Trees for Tomorrow, encourages students to showcase the vital role trees play in preserving our environment.
“This contest is a fantastic way to inspire young minds about the importance of protecting our natural resources,” said Supervisor Saladino. “By learning about the benefits of trees, students gain a greater appreciation for the environment and the role they play in safeguarding it for the future.”
Students are invited to get creative and design a poster highlighting how trees contribute to a healthier planet. Here are some key facts they may consider in their artwork:
• Oxygen Powerhouse – Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping us breathe cleaner air. (Did you know? 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide
and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year!)
• Nature’s Purifier – Trees filter air and water, promoting a healthier environment.
• Natural Cooling System –Trees provide shade and help cool neighborhoods.
• Wildlife Habitat – Trees support biodiversity by offering food and shelter to countless species.
• Health & Wellness Boost – Trees encourage outdoor activities, benefiting both physical and mental wellbeing.
How to Enter
Posters must be created on paper no larger than 12”x18” (no edible materials allowed).
The top three winning posters will be displayed at a Town facility and featured in an upcoming Town of Oyster Bay Environmental Newsletter.
“We’re proud to partner with Friends of the Bay and The Waterfront Center to promote environmental awareness among students,” said Councilman Monteleone.
“I encourage all fourth graders to participate in this fun and educational initiative!”
Exciting Prizes!
1st Place – A private tour of Oyster Bay Harbor aboard a Friends of the Bay vessel, a $200 Waterfront Center gift certificate, a tree planted at the winner’s school for Arbor Day, a nautical trivia game, and Friends of the Bay apparel.
2nd & 3rd Place – A Waterfront Center gift certificate and a tree planted in their school district.
Deadline & Submission Details
Deadline: Friday, April 4th
Winners Announced: Earth Day, April 22nd
Submit by mail or email: Mail: Town of Oyster Bay Department of Environmental Resources, Attn: Poster Contest, 29 Spring Street, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
Email: environmental@ oysterbay-ny.gov (Subject: “2025 Poster Contest”)
Students must include an entry form, available at www.oysterbaytown.com/ postercontest. For full contest details, visit the website. Get creative, spread the word, and help us celebrate the power of trees!
Polar Plunge Returns To TOBAY Beach
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Lou Imbroto invite residents to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the annual Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 29th at TOBAY Beach.
“Many of our residents head to TOBAY Beach for summer fun, but this event provides an enjoyable and charitable reason to spend a great day at the beach much sooner,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Participants will have an opportunity to prove their mettle and their compassion by wading into the chilly waters of TOBAY Beach to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York.”
The event kicks off with winter festival fun and registration starting at 9:00 a.m., with the
March 29th
plunge beginning at 11 a.m.
Requested donation is $25 per participant. Plungers who raise $150 receive a commemorative Polar Plunge sweatshirt.
All of the money raised through the Polar Plunge helps provide year-round sports training and competition as well as leadership, health and inclusion programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities in your community.
“This polar plunge is sure to create lasting memories for all participants while supporting a very worthwhile cause,” added Councilman Imbroto. “Special Olympics New York changes lives through the joy of sports and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization to help make this event a success.
Please join with me in braving the chilly waters for a great reason.”
Pre-register yourself, family and team today at www. PolarPlungeNY.org. For more information, call Rebecca Hoffmann at (631) 458-1579 or e-mail rhoffmann@nyso.org. Thank you for the following sponsors: Optimum, News 12 Long Island, Long Island Igloos, Jersey Mike’s Subs, 7-Eleven, New York Islanders, Washville, 106.1 BLI, Special Olympics New York, Nassau County PBA, WBAB 102.3, Nassau County Police Department, CSEA, Liberty Beverages, Adventureland, Adventureland’s Helping Hands Foundation, and Long Island Press.
AWARDED #1 TEAM MASSAPEQUA OFFICE 2024
“During our first meeting with Michele we knew immediately she was the person we wanted to help sell our home of 36 years. Every detail of the process was clearly explained to us and executed exactly as proposed. Michele helped us carefully review our offers and pointed out the positives and negatives of each one. In the end we got a terrific price for our home and we were very happy. We highly recommend Michele for her professionalism and many years of real estate knowledge.” ... Andrew & Sheryl Engel
“After researching and interviewing a number of realtors to sell our Massapequa home, we decided on using the Michele and Mark Goodman Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Michele and Mark conducted thorough market research, had expert historical knowledge of the house and its community and were very knowledgeable of the various selling features the neighborhood offered. The Team’s confident approach to listing and marketing the property was effective, resulting in strong prospect interest and ultimately a very satisfying sales price within a short time frame. They also did an excellent job keeping us informed along the way and were, without fail, extremely responsive to questions sent to them regardless of the time of day.” ... Jeffrey Tomitz
“I highly recommend the Michele & Mark Goodman Team to both “Sellers“ & “Purchasers” due to their unparalleled negotiation skills, their marketing expertise & their 24/7 availability to answer all my questions & handle all the intricate details of each transaction. I’ve hired them for 4 of my sales & purchases & would definitely hire them again because they exceeded my expectations, are dedicated, extremely knowledgeable, experts in their field, true professionals & definitely a 5 STAR TEAM!” ... Jaimee Guttman
“We give Michele & Mark Goodman our very highest recommendation!! My husband who is a real estate attorney & I knew that we wanted Michele and Mark to find a buyer for our home and quickly! That was a good decision!! They found a buyer within a few weeks & negotiated a price of $82,000 higher than our asking. We have already recommended this team to clients and will highly recommend them to friends & family. They are true professionals!!” ... Arnie & Resa Hauptman
