South Bay's Neighbor
A book about a bully who gets a fresh start was the inspiration for a digital project at McKenna Elementary School in the Massapequa School District. Students in Olivia Belfiore’s fifth grade class read “Restart” by Gordon
Mini Movies Summarize Anti-Bullying Book
Korman, then made movie trailers about it. While the book doesn’t have a corresponding movie, that didn’t stop students from creating animated previews of “Restart.” They worked in small groups and made
their projects in Canva using its animation features.
Ms. Belfiore explained that each group was asked to capture key points of the book such as important plot details, character changes, theme, and problem and
“Restart.”
solution. Instead of writing an essay, students were able to reflect on story elements in more engaging and visual way.
“It was a chance for them to show off their creativity,”
Ms. Belfiore said. “Their projects were fantastic, beyond my expectations!”
For several weeks, Ms. Belfiore read sections of the book aloud each day, which would then be followed by a class discussion and entries in this digital journal. The movie trailers served as the culminating project.
Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Don’t Miss A Beat In The New Year!
McKenna Elementary School fifth graders, from left, Gia Laudisio, Quinn Trojanowski and Bridger Greve showed their digital trailer on the book
Gabrielle Scannella, A.J. Karavis and Hudson Fodera, right, made a trailer to showcase the main story elements of “Restart,” a book the class read over several weeks.
New Playgrounds In Massapequa
Continuing in their efforts to improve various neighborhood parks, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato announced that several playgrounds throughout the Town have received enhancements and, in some cases, complete replacements.
“We are proud to announce that these new playgrounds are now open for our Town’s youngsters to safely enjoy for years to come,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We are dedicated to providing safe and engaging spaces for families to get outside and play and enjoy the many wonderful local parks
throughout our Town,” added Receiver Pravato.
New playgrounds and improvements are located at the following parklets in Massapequa: Parklet M-1, Cheryl Road, Massapequa Parklet M-17, Pittsburgh Avenue, Massapequa
Parklet M-38, Linden Street, Massapequa
Diet And Mental Wellness
Nutritious diets have long been touted as essential components of healthy lifestyles. Many people have a tendency to view diet as something that’s purely physical, associating the foods they eat with how they look and how much energy they have. While accurate, it doesn’t paint the full picture of just how big and positive an impact healthy diets can have on overall health.
In regard to healthy diets, it’s hard to dispute the effectiveness of the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet focuses on plant-based foods and, as a result, includes lots of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and olive oil. The diet is so healthy that the World Health Organization even recognizes it as a healthy, sustainable dietary pattern.
ACROSS 1. Americans’ “uncle”
Unwelcome pest
Saddle horses
Type of gibbon
Delta is one
NE Massachusetts cape
Yes vote 27. Muddy ground
Physics apparatus (abbr.)
Type of drug
German city
Animal disease 32. Martini ingredients 33. Get away 34. Spanish municipality 36. Thrust a knife into
Saladino Cautions Residents Of Scam Donation Bins
Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato and Assemblyman Michael Durso joined to warn residents who leave donations in collection bins to make sure that the organizations behind those bins have good intentions.
Particularly during the holiday season, Town officials have witnessed a proliferation in illegally placed bins asking residents to drop off clothing or toy donations. Many of these structures appear to be homemade, contain stencil lettering and no sign of legitimacy.
“The holiday season is the time for giving, and our residents have a reputation of being among the most giving on Long Island, donating food, clothes and toys to those less fortunate,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Unfortunately, this time of year is also when we begin to see this
particular type of scam, and we want to make sure our residents are vigilant when it comes to making donations, whether it be with clothing or monetary contributions.”
While collections bins are not permitted in Town of Oyster Bay operated lots, some wellintentioned businesses that authorize donation bins may not be aware of some that are fraudulent.
Residents should be aware of the following warning signs:
• Collection bins with no identification
• Overflowing, nonmaintained donation bins
• Donations being requested over the phone
• Acknowledgement of a donation never made
• Requests for personal identification, including social security number
“We want our wellintentioned residents to be certain that donations made out of the goodness
of their hearts are going to the right place,” Supervisor Saladino added. “Residents should be wary of any bins with no identification, as this is in violation of county and state codes.”
Town officials have removed illegally placed bins in the past year after learning that donations were allegedly being improperly collected and sold for profit. Any residents who see these type of donation bins in their community in the Town of Oyster Bay should contact the Town’s Code Compliance Bureau at (516) 624-6200.
To learn how charities spend donation monies, residents can visit charitynavigator.org or charitywatch.org. To determine is a charity is registered in New York State, visit the State Attorney General’s website at www.charitiesnys.com or call (212) 416-8401.
Joseph Saladino, with Assemblyman Mike Durso and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey
warns residents to be vigilant when making donations of any kind this holiday season.
Supervisor
Pravato,
ONE-STOP BBQ SHOP
First Course (Choose One)
Pasta:
• Penne
Entree:
• Chicken Marsala
• Pino’s Famous Cheese & Parsley Sausage Ring
• Baked Ziti
• USDA Prime Marinated London Broil
• Spaghetti
• Rigatoni
• 12 USDA Prime Sirloin Sliders
• Stuffed Shells (16 Pc)
• Manicotti (8 Pc)
• Jumbo Cheese Ravioli (16 Pc)
Salad (Choose One)
• Chicken Francese
• 12 USDA GRADE-A Chicken Skewers
• Eggplant Parmigiana
• Hamburger & Hot Dog Buns
• Chicken Parmigiana
• Sausage & Peppers
• Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes & Broccoli
• Eggplant Rollatine
• Meatballs
• Garden Salad • Caesar Salad
• USDA Prime Sirloin Hamburgers with Buns!
• Boar’s Head Brand Hot Dogs with Buns!
• USDA GRADE-A White Meat Chicken Skewers
• Vodka Sauce
• Tomato & Basil
• Marinara
• Garlic & Oil
• Bolognese
• 2 Packages of Boar’s Head Brand Hot Dogs
5 protein package with plenty of sides to choose from! An impressive 6 protein package featuring filet mignon,
• USDA Prime Sirloin Steak Skewers
• Pino’s Famous Slow Cooked Marinated Baby Back Ribs
• Sugar Sweet, Local Corn on the Cob
Choose 3 Homemade Sides:
• Macaroni Salad
• Potato Salad
Large Trays (Choose One per 10 People)
• Cole Slaw
• Baked Ziti
• Farfalle Pasta Salad
Second Course (Choose One) Includes fresh baked Italian Bread
• USDA Prime Hanger Steak (Additional Charge)
• Pino’s Famous Cheese & Parsley Sausage
Give us 90 minutes to prepare your dinner. Valid Monday through Friday 3pm-6:30pm. Must call before 3pm
• Pino’s Famous Slow Cooked Marinated Baby Back Ribs
• USDA Black Angus Filet Mignon Steaks
• Boar’s Head Brand Hot Dogs with Buns!
Choose 3 Homemade Sides:
• Macaroni
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• Choice of: USDA Prime Sirloin Burgers or USDA Grade A Chicken Burgers with Buns!
• Choice of: USDA Prime Sirloin Steak Skewers or All Natural Jumbo Shrimp Kebabs
Package Includes: Dinner rolls, garden salad, plates, forks, spoons, knives, napkins and serving utensils.
• Pork Filet Salpino
• Crisp String Bean Salad
• Cavatelli Calabrese
• Chicken Marsala
• Chicken Cacciatore
• Chicken with Broccoli & Sundried Tomatoes
• Chicken Francese
• Eggplant Rollatini
• Farfalle Primavera
• Gnocchi Bolognese
• Grilled Pork Tenderloin
• Manicotti
• Meatballs in Sauce
• Rigatoni Bolognese
• Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
• Sausage & Peppers
• Sausage & Potatoes
• Stuffed Chicken
Gourmet Catering Special #1
• Chicken Grigio
• Chicken Marsala
• Mussels Marinara
• Mussels Garlic & Oil
Large Trays (Choose One per 10 People)
• Chicken Piccata
• Baked Ziti
• Chicken Parmigiana
• Cavatelli Calabrese
• Chicken Marsala
• Chicken Cacciatore
• Chicken with Broccoli & Sundried Tomatoes
*Rates subject to change during holidays.
• Chicken Francese
• Orecchiette Broccoli Rabe
• Stuffed Rigatoni
• Chicken Grigio
• Chicken Marsala
• Chicken Piccata
• Chicken Parmigiana
• Eggplant Parmigiana
• Penne alla Vodka
• Eggplant Rollatini
• Farfalle Primavera
• Gnocchi Bolognese
• Grilled Pork Tenderloin
• Manicotti
(Choose one per ten people. Must choose one pasta dish)
• Meatballs in Sauce
• Mussels Marinara
Linguine w/ Clam Sauce
Linguine ai Frutti di Mare
Orzo Mediterranean
• Orecchiette & Salsiccia
• Penne alla Vodka
• Penne Fantasia
Starch & Vegetables
• Stuffed Shells
Package Includes: Dinner rolls, garden salad, plates, forks, spoons, knives, napkins and serving utensils.
• Tortellini Alfredo
• Pork Filet Salpino
• Rigatoni Bolognese
• Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
• Sausage & Peppers
• Sausage & Potatoes
• Stuffed Chicken
• Stuffed Rigatoni
• Stuffed Shells
From the Land
• Brussel Sprouts
• Mussels Garlic & Oil
Chicken w/ Sauteed Broccoli & Sundried Tomatoes
• Grilled Asparagus
• Tortellini Alfredo
Boneless Spare Ribs
• Orecchiette Broccoli Rabe
• Butternut Squash
• Penne alla Vodka
Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Francese • Chicken Grigio
Chicken Marsala
• Shrimp Mia *Must choose one pasta • Chicken Adriana
Stuffed Chicken Poultry
Chicken Parmigiana
Chicken Sorrentino
Grilled Turkey London Broil
Roasted Turkey Breast
• Eggplant Parmigiana
• Eggplant Rollatine
From the Sea
• Grilled Salmon
• Maryland Crab Cakes
• Mussels Margherita
• Mussels w/ Garlic & Oil
• Shrimp Oreganata
• Shrimp Parmigiana
• Rice Primavera
• Roasted Potatoes
• Spaghetti Squash
Grilled Pork Tenderloin
$1395 + tax Per Person (Min. 30 people) Buon Appetito!
• Grilled USDA Prime Flat Iron Steak
• Meatballs
• Pork Chop Caprese
• Pork Filet Salpino
• Stuffed Flounder Filet
• Stuffed Shrimp
• Shrimp Scampi
• Sausage & Peppers
• Veal Marsala
• Veal Parmigiana
• Veal Scallopine
Package Includes: Professional wait staff for 4 hours. serving utensils, paper goods and fresh baked dinner rolls.
Grilled Chicken
Grilled Shrimp
Grilled Skirt Steak
JANUARY HAPPENINGS
THRU THURS. JAN. 2nd
10:00AM-3:00PM
CHRISTMAS HOUSE
LONG ISLAND
If you are looking for an exciting and fun, indoor family holiday attraction, Christmas House Long Island is now open daily at the Broadway Commons, 358 N. Broadway in Hicksville. This unique 45+ minute walk-through features interactive and imaginative experiences that will delight people of all ages! For more information, please call 516-878-0273
THRU SAT. JAN. 4th
12:00 PM 1:30 PM
MAGIC OF LIGHTS
Jones Beach State Park. 1 Ocean Parkway in Wantagh. Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience, which features holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience this all from the comfort of your own car! One carload, one price. For dates, times, and ticket availability, visit magicoflights.com.
SAT. JAN. 4th
12:00PM-1:30PM
FOREST BATHING WALK
Start the new year with a Forest Bathing Walk with one of Sweetbriar’s nature educators and forest therapy guide, Linda Lombardo. Forest Therapy is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in a forest or other natural environment. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown.
HOLIDAYS
1st - New Years Day
20th - Martin Luther King Jr. 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
For more information, please call 631-979-6344
MON. JAN. 6th
7:30PM
BABYLON CHORALE AUDITIONS
The Babylon Chorale will hold auditions at Sisters of St. Joseph Brentwood Campus. All voice parts are welcomed. For further information, visit www.babylonchorale.org or email info@babylonchorale.org
THURS. JAN. 9th
7:00PM 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. JAN. 11th
8:45AM-10:30AM
POLAR PLUNGEFreezin for a Reason
Get ready to take the plunge for an amazing cause! Join us for the Town of Huntington 2025 Polar Plunge and show your support for the incredible athletes of the Special Olympics! Location: Crab Meadow Beach in Northport. This event is about more than just a chilly dip, it’s about coming together as a community to celebrate and empower these remarkable athletes. Let’s make a difference together. For more details and to register, visit: www.polarplungeny.org/ Huntington
SUN. JAN. 12th
11:00AM-2:00PM
2025 NYS PARKS
WINTER RUN SERIES
at Heckscher State Park, East IslipField #2. Absolutely No: Baby Joggers, Rollerbladers, Skaters, Bikers or Pets Are Permitted! For more information, please call Brendan Dagan 516-531-3323
SAT. JAN. 18th
4:00PM-7:00PM
FAMILY GAME NIGHT
Farmingdale United Methodist Church, 407 Main Street in Farmingdale, invites the community to their Family Game Night. Come have fun with Duck Races, Cornhole Games, Board Games, Life-Size Jenga, Connect Four, food and much more! Please RSVP to office@armingdaleumc.org.
SAT. JAN. 25th
8:45AM-12:00PM
8:45AM 5K Start
9:00AM Half Marathon & Marathon Start
ICEBREAKER MARATHON, HALF MARATHON & 5K
at Eisenhower Park Field 2 Rain or Shine. Certified course and a Boston Qualifier! The course is a looped course and great for spectating. The course is fully stocked with water and nutrition stops. The course is on park paths and fully closed roads. For more information, please call Brendan Dagan 516-531-3323
ever your circumstance,
knowing that I handle their situation with the utmost professionalism and care in
I take pride and having built my business through personal referrals, my goal is to continue to help make the buying or selling process an enjoyable one.
or concerns about Real Estate? I'd love to hear it, let's
Plainedge School District Proudly Presents
Benefits Of Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way for individuals to
but
A 2020 study published in the Journal of
Studies examined 70,000 participants, each of whom received surveys that asked questions regarding their volunteering habits and mental health.The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who
had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and gave their overall health higher ratings. The frequency of giving back to one’s community also may affect just how much volunteering affects mental health. Study participants who volunteered at least once per month rated their mental health even higher than those who volunteered but did so infrequently.
Cash On Hand
A leader in the presettlement funding business, LawCash helps level the playing field for people whose meritorious claims are being delayed. With cash on hand, victims don’t have to simply accept a lowball amount. Learn more at www.lawcash.net and (800) LAW-CASH.
Garage Door Sale!
Lockhart Hits High Mark In Make-A-Wish Fundraiser
With determination and open hearts, the students, staff and families of Lockhart Elementary School set a fundraising record in 36 years of collecting money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The total, which cleared $15,000, was announced at the annual concert on Dec. 20.
Money was raised from a walk-a-thon, the sale of bracelets, PTA raffles, online donations and other means.
An annual tradition since 1989, the smallest school in the Massapequa School District continues to show its big heart with the MakeA-Wish fundraiser. This year’s donation will allow a 3-year-old named Lucas to go to Disney World.
Principal Michael DeLuca, after speaking about the success of this year’s fundraiser, turned the program over to the musicians. The orchestra, conducted by Alison Pearl, performed three songs. The finale featured a surprise for the guests, as
halfway through the TransSiberian Orchestra-inspired “Christmas Canon,” fourth and fifth grade chorus members stood up with battery-operated candles and began singing along.
Fifth grade chorus students then sang a trio of holiday tunes under the direction of Kathleen Dyckman including the highly-anticipated “Holiday Lights.” The band, led by Nicole Boyle, wrapped up the show with a medley of Christmas and Hanukkah songs.
Soon, the grand total of this year’s fundraiser was announced, as student council members Ryan Hughes and Vincent Pistillo unveiled the giant check for $15,325. Accepting the donation was Joan Siedlecki, a volunteer wish granter from the foundation.
The six-week fundraiser featured much enthusiasm from the school community.
“The generosity of many will go far in helping a little boy live his Make-A-
Wish dream,” Mr. DeLuca said. “I am so proud of how everyone at Lockhart and in Massapequa came together to make this possible.”
Assistant Principal Louisa Vecchione, who remembers the Make-A-Wish fundraiser from her time as a student in the school, noted that “wishes can be the spark that helps children believe anything is possible.”
Fifth grade teacher and student council adviser Diane Bacheller noted that many students in the audience had parents who attended Lockhart and participated in the fundraiser decades ago. That’s one of many reasons why she said it is important to keep the tradition alive.
“Being involved in granting wishes is about helping others,” Ms. Bacheller said, “which in turn, teaches us lifelong lessons in giving, selflessness, caring kindness, happiness and joy.”
Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
At $15,325, Lockhart Elementary School presented its largest donation ever in its 36year history of raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. From left are student council officers Vincent Pistillo and Ryan Hughes, Principal Michael DeLuca, wish granter Joan Siedlecki, Assistant Principal Louisa Vecchione and student council adviser Diane Bacheller.
Town Completes Baseball Field
Upgrades At Plainedge Park
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato announced the completion of baseball field improvements at the Plainedge Park. The Town of Oyster Bay upgraded both natural surface baseball fields to synthetic turf.
“These important upgrades enhance the overall playing experience for everyone who utilizes these fields,” said Supervisor Saladino. “These upgrades are being achieved in the most cost-effective way while bringing added enjoyment to all who use them.”
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.
Town publications, including our website, social media pages and brochures.”
Artificial turf fields have a general useful life of up to 10 years, however they are less expensive than the long-term cost of maintaining natural grass and a dirt surface. Turf fields also provide the potential for fewer cancellations of games due to inclement weather, as the field is able to absorb rain storms in a manner that is not possible on a fully-dirt infield.
Receiver Pravato. “We are pleased to bring these enhancements to the Plainedge community while keeping a watchful eye on our bottom line.”
“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
Councilman Hand noted that photos should be taken within the confines of the Town of Oyster Bay. Digital submissions are preferred, but highquality photos may also be submitted. Emailed photos should be sent to photos@oysterbayny.gov. Printed photos can be submitted to the Town’s 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.
“Replacing the fields with synthetic turf allows for extended play time for athletes and brings a significant upgrade to this beautiful park,” said
For more information about Town parks, including local programs and events, visit the Town’s website at www. oysterbaytown.com/parks.
Families Anonymous Virtual Meetings
12-Step support group giving Hope & Strength to parents, family and friends concerned with a loved one’s destructive behavior
caused by Alcohol, Drugs or Related Behavioral Problems is now meeting virtually until further notice. For further
information e-mail or call: Donna526@aol.com or (631) 835.8788; Diane (631) 587.0966, www. FamiliesAnonymous.org
ST. CHARLES CEMETERY FARMINGDALE, NY Administrative Assistant
• Create and design marketing materials, including flyers, and brochures
• Perform clerical tasks such as scanning, photocopying, filing, and organizing documents
• Answer and direct phone calls in a polite and efficient manner
• Manage and maintain a clean and organized office environment
• Proofread documents for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors
• Manage office supplies
• Perform other duties as assigned
Requirements
• Computer literacy with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Familiarity with Adobe Photoshop
• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to handle inquiries and complaints professionally
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively
• Accurate data entry skills with attention to detail
• Clerical experience in an office setting is preferred
• Phone etiquette skills to handle calls with professionalism and courtesy
The position offers an opportunity to work in a professional office environment with a supportive team. The successful candidate will have the chance to develop their administrative skills while providing excellent customer service.
Monday - Friday, 35 hour work week, from 9am-5pm
Half day (over time pay), 9am-1pm, every other Saturday.
GUTTERS
New Pickleball Courts Open
Oyster Bay Town
Supervisor Joseph Saladino officially opened new pickleball courts for play at the SyossetWoodbury Community Park in Woodbury. Due to popular demand, the Town constructed new pickleball courts for local residents.
“Pickleball is a fun sport for all ages that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s become
incredibly popular in our Town, with seniors and families playing daily at our existing courts,” said Supervisor Saladino.
“These new courts will be a welcome addition to the community, so grab your sneakers and paddle, and get ready to play one of the world’s fastest growing sports at the new courts in in Oyster Bay.”
Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-
growing sports in the nation, and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to lead the way in creating opportunities for residents to enjoy this exciting game. Town courts are now open in Bayville, Bethpage, Massapequa, Oyster Bay, Sea Cliff and Woodbury. Plans are currently being developed to construct additional courts in Farmingdale and Massapequa in 2025.
Imbroto Announces Toddler Sports Program For Winter 2025
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Louis Imbroto announced that the Toddler Sports Program will return this winter, beginning February 11th. This 6-week program offers sports classes at the Hicksville Athletic Center for children ages 3 and 4.
“The Town’s Toddler Sports Program is a fantastic way to teach your toddler the fundamentals of sports in a fun and social environment,” said Councilman Imbroto. “This program is sure to be a hit with children and parents alike, as youngsters are given the opportunity to learn the basics of various different sports such as tee-ball, flag football and more along with children their own age.”
The Toddler Sports Program begins February 11th and is 6 weeks in duration. Residents who sign their toddler up for the program must choose one class per week, per child. Classes will take
place on:
Tuesdays at 10am or 11am at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville; and Thursdays at 10am or 11am at the Hicksville Athletic Center in Hicksville.
Registration will take place ONLINE through the Parks Portal available at oysterbaytown.com/ portal on January 7th at 9:00 am. Space is limitedfirst come, first serve. Registration will close when the program reaches full capacity. Each class is
approximately 50 minutes. The cost of the program is $75 per child who is a Town resident, and $90 per child whose care giver is a Town resident but not the child. The child’s birth certificate and a tax or utility bill will be required to validate age and proof of residency. A guardian must be present during the class. The child MUST be 3 years old by the start of the program.
The Toddler Sports Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For further information, please call (516) 797-7945.
