Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Richard LaMarca invite residents to renew their wedding vows at a special ceremony on Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14th, at Oyster Bay Town Hall. The event is offered free of charge to Town residents but reservations are required. Residents interested in renewing their wedding vows should RSVP to (516) 624-6380 by February 10th. Pictured: Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca, Supervisor Saladino and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrate with over 100 couples at a Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal ceremony at Town Hall.
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Recipe Of The Week: Chicken Barley Soup
Everyone knows there’s no cure for the common cold. Though colds can strike at any time, cold season tends to occur when the weather cools down and people spend more time indoors. Inside viruses can circulate and spread more easily, thus leading to elevated rates of infection. Though there might be no cure for the common cold, that does not mean people are helpless against it. Many people have their own remedies to help them manage and potentially shorten the duration of a cold, and chicken soup features prominently in those antidotes. Whether cold season is kicking into high gear or people are confronting the common cold at other times of year, they can incorporate this recipe for “Chicken Barley Soup” with Vegetables courtesy of Lines+Angles into their cold remedy routines.
Makes 6 servings
8 cups chicken stock
4 cups water
1 teaspoon marjoram
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
1 medium onion, sliced
1 cup carrots, sliced
2 cups cooked chicken breasts, diced
1 russet potato, peeled and cubed
1 cup broccoli, chopped 1⁄2 cup barley
Salt, to taste, Pepper, to taste
1. In a large pot, combine chicken stock, water, marjoram, rosemary, and parsley. Simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add onion, carrots, cooked chicken, potato, broccoli, and barley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer over low heat for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve.
Saladino, LaMarca Invite Couples To Free Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal
Special Event To Feature Reenactment Of America’s First Valentine
Oyster Bay Town
Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Richard LaMarca invite residents to renew their wedding vows at a special ceremony on Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14th, at Oyster Bay Town Hall. Cosponsored by Raynham Hall Museum, the event will include a reading of America’s First Valentine, which was written on February 14, 1779 in Oyster Bay. The special ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. and will include light refreshments for all guests.
“Couples often select Valentine’s Day to celebrate their relationship,” added Town Clerk LaMarca. “It may be a sentimental choice for couples who had their first date, first kiss, or even engagement on Valentine’s Day. Whatever the reason, we are proud to offer this special vow renewal ceremony at Town Hall.”
The ceremony will take place at Oyster Bay Town Hall, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay hamlet. The event is offered free of charge to Town residents but reservations are required. Residents interested in renewing their wedding vows should RSVP to (516) 624-6380 by February 10th.
The story of America’s
“Valentine’s Day is the most romantic day of the year, and many couples celebrate their wedding anniversaries on this special day. We look forward to making this special day even better as couples renew their marriage vows and declare their endless love for one another,” said Supervisor Saladino.
first Valentine is a proud piece of Oyster Bay history which dates back to the time of the Revolutionary War, as British troops occupied Long Island homes. During the height of the American Revolutionary War, love improbably blossomed between Lt. Col Simcoe and a young patriot named Sally Townsend as the
Townsend property served as a headquarters for a regiment of 300 British troops. Lt. Col. Simcoe presented Sally with a poem he wrote asking her to be his Valentine, and his famous poem, entitled ‘Will You Be My Valentine,’ became the first documented written Valentine in America.
Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Town Clerk Rich LaMarca, Supervisor Saladino and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato celebrate with over 100 couples at a Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal ceremony at Town Hall.
Local Businesses Take Active Role In Sticker Shock Campaign To Prevent Underage Drinking
The “Sticker Shock” campaign hosted by the Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC) just before the holidays made strides in raising awareness within the Massapequa community about the importance of preventing alcohol access for individuals under 21. This initiative involves posting eye-catching stickers in local restaurants, at the registers, and on pizza boxes, reminding customers and staff about the importance of not selling or serving alcohol to minors.
Massapequa businesses, including Calda Pizzeria, Frank’s Pizzeria, Leonard’s Pizzeria, and South Bay Beverages were proud to participate in this impactful campaign, showing their commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our youth. The stickers served as a visible
reminder of the laws and the role businesses play in protecting young people from alcohol-related harm.
Through their participation, these businesses demonstrate leadership in fostering a safe environment while serving their customers. The Sticker Shock campaign encourages everyone to take an active role in preventing underage drinking and to support a responsible and healthy community.
For more information about the campaign or resources related to underage drinking, please visit mtacoalition.com or contact Massapequa Takes Action Coalition at (516) 799-3203 ext. 131 or mtacoalition@yesccc.org.
About the Campaign: Sticker Shock is a community initiative designed to prevent underage drinking by posting stickers in
businesses that serve alcohol. The campaign educates both and the public about the importance of promoting healthy decision making when it comes to serving alcohol.
About Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC)
Massapequa Takes Action Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
reducing substance use and promoting mental and physical well-being in the Massapequa community. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, MTAC works to empower individuals and families to make healthy, positive choices that contribute to a stronger, more resilient community
FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS
STILL TO COME THIS MONTH!
THURS. JAN. 30th
2:00PM–3:00PM
WINTER BINGO
Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Ave. in Babylon. Shake off your winter blues with a few rounds of Bingo! Adults only, please. Registration is required. Please call Erin White for more information 631-669-1624
6:30PM-8:00 PM
TRIVIA NIGHT - TRIVIA ON ICE at The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. A winter-themed trivia in film, music, nature, history, geography, and more with a whale or two added in, of course! Enjoy hot chocolatespiked or plain - and appetizers from Grasso's Restaurant. Prizes and bragging rights for winners! Adults 21+ For more information, please call Cristina Ainslie at 631-367-3418
SAT. FEB. 1st
11:00AM
LUNAR NEW YEAR PROGRAM
Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 4090 Sunrise Highway in Oakdale. After a brisk hike, warm up with traditional New Year soups and sweets while enjoying a Presentation. Our Island’s Story: The Natural History of Long Island: This talk will discuss the features that make Long Island's geology distinctive and have shaped the peoples who have inhabited this island. Registration required. www. friendsofconnetquot.org
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
Seniors Invited To Join ‘Golden Tones’ Chorus Group
Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Laura Maier announced that the Town of Oyster Bay ‘Golden Tones Entertainment Group’ is returning to the North Massapequa Community Center this February and invite new members. This senior chorus is a social group open to Town residents over the age of 60 who have an interest in singing, dancing or entertaining. Anyone 60 and over is welcome, a great singing voice is not required to participate in this social group.
at public events,” said Councilwoman Maier. “The Golden Tones Chorus provides a creative and social outlet for seniors to make new friends and bond over their love of music. Join us today!”
THURS. FEB. 6th
11:00AM
LINDENHURST EVENING
HOMEMAKERS GROUP
Join Lindenhurst Evening Homemakers Group at the North Amityville Senior Center 48 Cedar Rd. in Amityville. (off of New Hwy.) Open to all, 18 years old & up. Meetings start at 7pm & new members should arrive 15 min. early. Contact Lisa LeBrie at 516-413-7467 for more info
SAT. FEB. 8th
10:30AM-12:30PM FOREST THERAPY WALK
Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy. in Great River. Join a certified forest therapy guide on a walk to slow down, wander, and notice the beauty of nature. This will be a lengthy walk, so please wear comfortable, study shoes and warm clothing. $45/pp.
11:00AM-3:00PM WINTERFEST 2025 Levittown Community Council WinterFest 2025, Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road in Levittown. Free admission, crafts, entertainment, and eye screening. OTHER: Featuring Nassau Lionel Operating Engineers, balloon magic by MsMatch the Clown, music by deejay Tim Aldridge. For information visit: levittowncouncil@yahoo.com
3:00PM
VALENTINE'S DAY CONCERT Valentine's Day Concert
Featuring Kathryn Wilson, soprano soloist. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690. A free-will offering will be taken.
TUES. FEB. 11th
7:00PM REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
7150 Republic Airport, Room 201 in Farmingdale. For information call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email: info@ republicairport.net
SAT. FEB. 15th
11:00AM-1:00PM
MAPLE SUGARING
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve. This interactive program geared for adults will teach you how to make your own maple syrup at home! Not recommended for children. Please call for Reservations: 631-423- 1770. Registration: Required
SUN. FEB. 16th
3:00PM-7:00PM
ANNUAL OUTREACH DANCE SPONSORED BY THE LADIES ANCIENT ORDER OF HIBERNIANS
Join them for their Annual Fundraiser at Division 2 Hall in Babylon. $40 pp includes beer, wine, soda, buffet dinner, dessert, Irish coffee Bar. Bring a bag of non-perishable food for inclusion in a Special Raffle! Reservations are a MUST call or text Mary Gibbons 631-671-6178
“We hear from choir members all the time how singing together lifts their spirits while providing great enjoyment to others in senior care facilities, schools and
Meetings will be held every Friday, beginning on Friday, January 31, at 10 a.m. at the North Massapequa Community Center, located at 214 North Albany Avenue in North Massapequa. There are two planned shows, a Spring Show as well as a Holiday Show, scheduled to be performed at the North Massapequa Community Center.
Senior citizens interested in joining the Golden Tones should call (516) 797-7916 for more information.
Town Seniors Invited To Participate In Karaoke Program
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto invites seniors to participate in the Town of Oyster Bay Senior Karaoke Program, held at various community centers throughout the Town.
The popular program, launched last year, saw such popularity it has returned bigger and better for residents who are interested in showing off their vocal talents.
“We’re calling all Town seniors who love to sing! This fun karaoke program will give you the opportunity to perform your favorite songs, from the tunes of Sinatra and Greatest Hits of the ‘80s to Today’s Top Songs, all in a social, welcoming environment,”
Councilman Imbroto said.
“Join us to make new friends and perhaps even discover a new favorite song.”
The Senior Karaoke Program takes place on the following schedule:
Mondays – 1 p.m. at Marjorie Post Center, 451 Unqua Rd, Massapequa Park
Wednesdays – 1 p.m. at the Glen Head Community Center, 200 Glen Head Rd, Glen Head
Thursdays – 11 a.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W Carl St in Hicksville Great singing skills aren’t necessary to join the fun; residents are welcome to attend without performing. There is no registration required for this program. A full karaoke machine, song list and light refreshments will be provided. For more information, please call the Department of Community and Youth Services, Senior Citizen Services Division, at (516) 797-7916.
Valentine’s Day is steeped in tradition. Giving flowers is a popular tradition each February 14, and the National Retail Federation estimates that people spend around $2.6 billion on flowers for Valentine’s Day, when an estimated 250 million stems of flowers are sold globally. Valentine’s Day is the most lucrative day for florists, with the red rose the most popular flower given on this day for lovebirds.
Just because millions of roses are prepared in
Pick The Perfect Valentine’s Day Flowers
advance of Valentine’s Day sales doesn’t mean this is the type of flower that one has to choose for a bouquet or arrangement. A surprise bouquet can feature unique blooms. Here are tips to give the perfect bouquet to the person who claims your heart.
• Identify your loved one’s favorite colors and flowers. Understanding your partner’s floral preferences is the first step in choosing a Valentine’s Day arrangement. Many
have a favorite flower type or color, and everyone’s isn’t necessarily a red rose. Some people love bright daffodils, while others like exotic lilies. Pay attention to these likes to select flowers that will delight your partner.
• Select fresh flowers. When buying flowers in person, make sure they are fresh by gently feeling the part of the petal that meets the stem. If this part is firm, then the flower is fresh.
• Opt for neutral tones. If you’re unsure of which flowers to buy, stick with varietals in white and soft, neutral tones. This will lend a more romantic vibe to the bouquet. Bright, high-contrast florals may come off as tacky unless you can guarantee that the person prefers them.
• Keep allergies in mind. Valentine’s Day should be about offering love, not a case of the sniffles. If the person in your life suffers from floral
allergies, avoid certain blooms, like sunflowers, chrysanthemums and hyacinths, suggests Funny How Flowers Do That, a United Kingdom-based flower company. Tulips, irises and hydrangea are
less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
• Order early. Time is of the essence when getting flowers for Valentine’s Day. Florists may rush or have fewer flowers to work with as Valentine’s Day draws
closer. Ordering well in advance means you’ll get your desired arrangement. Choosing flowers comes down to a few simple steps to offer a gift of love on Valentine’s Day.
TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY
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Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276
BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?
Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276
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
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you Call The Classifi eds 631-226-2636 Pres s 276
Instructional Coaches Converge And Collaborate
Dozens of educators from districts across Long Island came together at Massapequa High School on Jan. 9 to share best practices and improve instruction for students. The theme for the 2025 Coaching Collaborative was “Reflecting Back, Thinking Forward.”
The program began with remarks in the Little Theater from Curriculum Associate for ELA and Library Media Tina Farrell, Curriculum Associate for Math 6-12 John Watson and Superintendent Dr. William Brennan. In his remarks, Dr. Brennan noted that today’s educators are preparing students for careers that will likely extend into the 2070s and for jobs that don’t even exist yet. It is extremely important for educators to adapt to a fast-changing world and instructional coaches are key to that.
“You help teachers see what’s on the other side,” Dr. Brennan told the 47 guests from 18 school districts. “You lead them through the change process.”
In the library, the visiting instructional coaches and department leaders attended two workshops. They could choose from one of four topics during each session.
The workshops were led by Massapequa’s instructional coaches and administrators.
Among the topics were “Embracing AI In Education,” “Resources for Instructional Coaches,” “Sharing in Best Practices Through Learning Walks” and “Effective Strategies for Supporting New Teachers.”
The idea for Massapequa’s Coaching Collaborative was sparked by secondary instructional coaches Laura Bottan (ELA) and Carol Dacey (math), who had attended similar programs hosted by other districts.
“I’m very lucky to work with an incredible team of instructional coaches at Massapequa and hosting this collaborative gave us the opportunity to highlight our hard work and connect with instructional coaches from across Long Island,” Ms.
Superintendent Dr.
Brennan spoke to instructional coaches from 18 other school districts about being the agents for change to ensure that education keeps up with an everevolving world.
Bottan said.
“There was a positive and supportive energy in the air. Hosting our first Coaching Collaborative was a tremendous success.”
Dr. Michele Walsh, assistant to the superintendent for instructional services and general administration, said that prior to the event, Massapequa put out a survey to prospective participants. From there, workshops were developed, which represented a wide spectrum of topics to support K-12 education.
“It’s a great opportunity for Massapequa to share and learn with other districts about the value of instructional coaching,” she said.
Ms. Farrell, who noted that coaches are essential members of a school’s instructional program, said the Coaching Collaborative reflects the value of networking.
“What’s great is how our coaches got inspired by attending this type of event in other districts,” she said.
“It opens up new learning
opportunities that we can transfer to our teachers and set our students up for success.”
Mr. Watson added that while this was a great opportunity to showcase the work being done in Massapequa, it was also a chance for the district’s instructional coaches to come away with new ideas.
“It’s a collaborative event,” he said. “Our coaches get to share what they do day to day and our guests are sharing what they’re doing.”
William
Massapequa’s instructional coaches led workshops on a variety of topics for their colleagues from other districts.
