Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC) works to promote a healthy Massapequa by educating our community about the dangers and prevention of substance misuse. For 10 Ways to Stay
mtacoalition.com/campaigns
Drinking alcohol or using drugs while boating poses a significant health and safety risk. It is also 100% preventable.
This Independence Day Weekend, Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC) and the Town of Oyster Bay urge everyone to make safety a priority on the water. Stay sober while boating and help ensure a safe, memorable holiday for all.
Massapequa Class Of 2025 Ready To Take On The World As Leaders
On Sunday, June 24, 1956, Massapequa High School held its first ever graduation for about 200 seniors in the auditorium. Flash forward a few generations later, and Massapequa’s 70th class, with 472 students, graduated on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Hofstra University’s Mack Sports and Exhibition Center.
Principal Barbara Lowell, herself a Massapequa graduate, reflected on the similarities and differences between the two classes. Having done extensive research on the first-ever class of Chiefs, she cited the speech of the first principal, Arthur Rohr, who said that those seniors were building the traditions of Massapequa High School.
“I’m very happy to say that 70 years later, the seniors sitting in front of me tonight have fulfilled those traditions, improved upon them and created their own,” Ms. Lowell said. “I’m thankful, as principal, to have gotten to know these students over the years. They have shown me the absolute best that Massapequa has to offer.”
Superintendent Dr. William Brennan thanked the Class of 2025 for all they have brought to the schools over the last 13 years.
“You have modeled perseverance, resilience, empathy and leadership that no rubric on this planet could have captured,” he said. “You’ve shown that education isn’t just about tests and grades, but about courage, connection and growth.”
Graduates marched into the arena in their blue caps and gowns to “Pomp and Circumstance.”
Isabella Corigliano sang the national anthem.
Medallions were presented for academic excellence in all subject areas.
Student speakers included valedictorian Samantha Portz, salutatorian
Will Stebner, general organization President Olivia Valoroso and senior class President Jackson Yahner. Ms. Lowell also recognized students who will be going to military academies or joining a branch of the armed forces.
Samantha, who will be attending Amherst College in Massachusetts and joining the Army ROTC, reflected on what it means to be a Massapequa Chief.
“It’s about embodying the spirit of leadership, resilience and service,” she said. “It’s about being a Chief in every aspect of life, by stepping up to support others, volunteering, lending a hand to a neighbor in need or standing up for what is
right, even when it may be difficult.”
Will, who will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, used the messages in his yearbook as inspiration for his address.
“Reading all these kind things made me realize how meaningful these years have been,” he said. “So, whether you’ve seized every moment of high school and never want to leave, or counted the days until today, or had mixed feelings about high school, that’s OK. Just don’t become a stranger to the people who care so much about you.”
Olivia said that although a chapter of their lives is closing, the memories and experiences will be with them forever. Every experience, she added, came with an important lesson.
Jackson reflected on the many talents and feats of the Class of 2025, from the classroom to the stage to the athletic fields.
“When you strive for greatness, you inspire others to do the same,” he said. “That, to me, is the spirit of a Massapequa Chief – the leader who leads by inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.”
Jackson paid tribute to a classmate who could not be there, Connor Kasin, who passed away
in November. Before the ceremony, teachers handed out bracelets for all of the graduates to wear in his
memory. Ms. Lowell also noted that earlier in the day, Connor’s family was presented with a diploma
from all four schools that he attended.
and yearbook signed by the senior class and teachers
The student graduation speakers, from left, general organization President Olivia Valoroso, senior class President Jackson Yahner, salutatorian Will Stebner and valedictorian Samantha Portz showed off their diplomas and new sunglasses. Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Superintendent Dr. William Brennan congratulated Massapequa’s newest alumni.
Massapequa’s 472 graduates received their diplomas.
Massapequa Coast Annual End-Of-Season T-Ball/Coach Pitch Picnic At John Burns Park
The Massapequa Coast hosted its annual end-ofseason T-Ball/Coach Pitch picnic at John Burns Park on Tuesday, June 17th. Despite gloomy overhead skies, the 500 players, along with an estimated 2,500 family members from the Coast Leagues’ lower divisions, were all smiles. For 3 hours, they enjoyed 3 giant inflatable attractions. The kids had
a blast of a time like they were at an Amusement Park. In addition to the cost of the Inflatables, the Massapequa Coast went to the expense of renting 100 tables and 500 chairs so that every team could enjoy a picnic atmosphere. The Coast League grilled up hot dogs and offered bottled water for free, and each team brought their own assortment of goodies
for their team picnic tables for players and families to feast on. The picnic opened up with an Opening Ceremony where each team was announced onto the Major Field as they lined the warning track of the outfield fencing. After the National Anthem, the kids were off to the Giant Inflatables. In addition to the amusements and food, every player was presented
with a personal award for their great baseball season.
The Squirts division players received impressive medals, and in the T-Ball, Sandlot, and Rookies Divisions, each player’s trophy was personalized with the player’s name engraved on it. This year, Mike Gentile of Genstar Masonry made a generous donation of 3 thousand dollars to sponsor the
event, thus offsetting the cost of the event, which totals approximately $10K that is paid for from the Massapequa Coast General Fund. This was Mr. Gentile’s second year sponsoring the event. In 2024, his company donated 5 thousand dollars to the event. In addition, Kevin Podmore of More Juice Inc. donated 1200 Hot Dogs for the enjoyment of
the families attending. The President of Massapequa Coast Craig Garland, said an event this size takes a lot of planning, coordination, and leg work by a very dedicated Board of Directors who do so as volunteers for their Love and Pride in the Community, and to see all those happy faces celebrating their baseball season.
JULY HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2nd
7:30PM
FARMINGDALE VILLAGE POPS
ON THE VILLAGE GREEN
Farmingdale Village Pops On the Village Green, 43rd Season and Crowd Favorite! Wednesdays July 2nd, July 9th, July 16th, July 23rd & July 30th. Held on the Village Green, 361 Main Street, or along Main Street (as noted). Outdoor events are weather permitting. Bring chairs/blankets for seating for Movies, Pops concerts & theatre performance. For more information, please call Farmingdale Village, 516-249-0093
FRIDAY, JULY 4th
8:30AM-12:00PM
INDEPENDENCE DAY 4 MILE RUN/WALK At Bellmore Fire House, 230 Pettit Ave Bellmore. 8:30AM 4 Mile Start, 8:00AM 1 Mile Start. Rain or Shine. Sanctioned by USATF-LONG ISLAND & an individual scoring race in the USATF-LI Grand Prix. All are welcome, you can also become a member today to score! This event is a USATF-Long Island fundraiser, with all proceeds going directly to Long Island Track & Field. For more information, please call 516-531-3323
SATURDAY, JULY 5th
3:00PM
CONCERT OF PATRIOTIC MUSIC
Celebrating God and Country featuring Kathryn Wilson, soprano soloist. A free-will offering will be taken. Grace United Methodist, 515 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690
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
SATURDAY, JULY 12th & SUNDAY, JULY 13th
10:00AM-6:00PM LONG BEACH ARTS AND CRAFTS BOARDWALK FESTIVAL
The City of Long Beach Department of Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce that the 2025 Arts and Crafts Boardwalk Festival has returned. Vendor applications are available. All artisans are encouraged to apply! For more information, please call 516-705-7414
THROUGH JULY 13th
5-11PM WEEKDAYS AND NOON-11 PM SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS & JULY 4th
EMPIRE STATE FAIR
This family-fun annual event features a variety of live entertainment, four nights of spectacular Fireworks by Grucci, exciting rides and games for the whole family, and plenty of delicious fair food. For more information, please call 866-666-3247
SATURDAY, JULY 19th
10:00AM-4:00PM ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
Wantagh Preservation Society's 4th Annual Antique Car Show.(Rain date Sunday July 20th) Wantagh Preservation Society Museum, 1700 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. Cars from 1960's & older. Entrance fee $1. Refreshments for sale, 50/50 raffle, music! Go inside Wantagh's 1885 Train Station, Wantagh's 1907 Post office & get your free ticket to board the 1912 Jamaica Parlor car, (Parlor car open from 12 - 2pm). emailWantaghmuseum@gmail.com (Matt)
6:30PM-10:30PM
HAWAIIAN LUAU
Grab your grass skirt & Hawaiian shirt. Brumidi Lodge, Deer Park is hosting a HAWAIIAN LUAU. Hawaiian Style Buffet Dinner, Slushies & soda included, Tiki Bar, Brumidi’s Famous Hawaiian Entertainment DJ Gene & Joanne Spinning in the Music Hut. Raffles & Much More Summer Fun For tickets and more information, please call Anita 631-422-6914. Sons & Daughters of Italy in America 2075 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park.
SUNDAY, JULY 20th
11:00AM-4:00PM
SPIRIT OF SUMMER ART FESTIVAL Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Rd. N. Huntington Station. A day of celebrating inclusion and diversity in the arts, hand-made goods, community, food trucks, raffles, games, music performances, fun crafts and activities for the whole family! Hosted by the Spirit of Huntington, a non-profit community art center that teaches creative expression classes to all ages and all abilities. Connected with over 500 participants and dozens of local organizations across Long Island. For more information, please call 631-470-9620
MONDAY, JULY 21st
9:00AM-12:00PM
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 36 E. John Street in Lindenhurst. July 21st through July 25th. Bible lessons, Music, Games, Crafts, Snacks, and more! FREE!! Grades K-6th. Register at https:// saintjohnsvbs.myanswers.com
Massapequa Dog Rescue Club Makes A Paws-Itive Impact
Massapequa High School’s Dog Rescue Club supported three local animal organizations with significant monetary donations. The group held a check presentation ceremony afterschool on June 11.
The donations totaled more than $4,000, with Last Hope Animal Rescue, Paws of War and Pawsitive Possibilities Rescue Inc. each receiving a check for $1,450. The Dog Rescue Club held several fundraisers throughout the year including monthly bake sales, online T-shirt sales and a walk-athon.
Representatives from each of the organizations were on hand to accept the donations along with students from the Dog Rescue Club and co-adviser Christina Sabbiondo. Paws of War pairs veterans with service dogs, while Last Hope Animal Rescue and Pawsitive Possibilities
facilitate animal adoptions. Many students in the club volunteer with these organizations. Providing financial
support to nonprofit animal organizations is the Dog Rescue Club’s major initiative each year, but it also holds other
events such as puppy yoga and a pet adoption fair.
Club President Charlotte Focarazzo said it is rewarding to help these
organizations, which rely on donations to fulfill their missions.
“Everyone in the club definitely contributed a
lot and worked hard,” she said. “The organizations and shelters make the most of any donations that they get.”
Massapequa High School’s Dog Rescue Club presented donations to three nonprofit animal organizations on June 11. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District
NEW Program Alert: Registration Now Open For Pilates In The Park
Oyster Bay Town
Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that registration for the Town’s New Pilates in the Park program is now underway. This program will be held on Saturdays at Theodore Roosevelt Park beginning July 19th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and run for 10 weeks.
Councilwoman Walsh stated, “Balencing wellness
and athleticism, the Pilates in the Park program is perfect for all levels and abilities. Register today for an easygoing way to boost your core, improve posture, and reduce stress, all while enjoying the outdoors at one of the most beautiful parks in the Town of Oyster Bay!”
Registration is online at: www.oysterbaytown.com/ sports. The resident fee is
$60, and new participants must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid photo ID. The non-resident fee is $70. Participants must provide their own mat. Classes will take place in the grassy area near the seawall.
For more information, please call (516) 7977945 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com
RENEW WITH SPRING at Woodloch
RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Greek Couscous
TheFourth of July is a day to celebrate the birthday of the United States of America. Americans celebrate the Fourth of July in various ways, many of which involve spending time outdoors with family and friends. Grilling delicious foods often is part of the July 4 game plan. Burgers, hot dogs and chicken drumsticks will never fall out of favor for Fourth of July fare, but savvy grillmasters know to pepper the offerings with foods that will tempt palates in unique ways. This recipe for “Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Greek Couscous” from “Cooking Light Fresh Food Superfast” (Oxmoor House) by the Cooking Light Editors appeals to vegetarians, vegetable lovers and anyone who wants something a little lighter from the grill.
Serves 4
2 small eggplants (about 1 pound each), each cut into 4 lengthwise slices
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat grill.
2. Drizzle eggplant slices with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill 6 minutes on each side or until tender. Sprinkle eggplant with cheese; grill 2 minutes or until cheese melts.
3. While eggplant grills, prepare Greek Couscous.
4. Place 2 eggplant slices on each of 4 plates. Top each serving with 1 cup couscous. Garnish with oregano sprigs, if desired.
1 15-ounce can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate 10 minutes.
A Record-Setting Year In Massapequa For Seal Of Biliteracy
Their mastery of multiple languages will culminate in the Seal of Biliteracy for 72 seniors in Massapequa High School’s graduating class of 2025. It is largest number of students to receive the prestigious distinction.
This year’s group brings the total number of Seal of Biliteracy recipients in the district to 275 since it was introduced in the 20192020 school year. Students receive the designation by showing mastery of both English and at least one world language.
Curriculum Associate for World Languages and ENL William Anderson commended students on the accomplishment because it is extra work beyond their classes, as they complete a cultural comparison project in their target world language.
“I am so proud that the Massapequa School District provides our students the opportunity to earn the New York State Seal of Biliteracy,” he said. “It affirms the value of linguistic and cultural diversity in our schools and communities. Earning the seal enhances students’ college applications and career prospects in an increasingly globalized workforce. It also promotes equity by validating the
multilingual skills of heritage speakers and English language learners. Ultimately, the Seal of Biliteracy empowers students to become confident, culturally competent global citizens.”
This year’s Seal of Biliteracy recipients reflect eight world languages.
American Sign Language, French, German, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish are part of the district’s world languages program, while Italian, Polish and Russian are languages students learned on their own.
Among the 72 recipients are four students who earned the seal in two world languages.
One of those is Tyler Benedict, who earned it in French and Russian. He took French in school since sixth grade, then began to learn Russian in eighth grade after being intrigued by hearing a friend’s mother speak it. First, he used an online program before getting a tutor. Tyler’s cultural comparison projects compared society etiquette in France and Russia to the United States.
Isabella Corigliano’s world language was Spanish and her project compared dance in the U.S. and Spain. In college, she wants to
study abroad in Spain and also believes her Spanish language skills will be useful in a career in business.
“It’s something that I wanted to earn as part of a wrap up of my world language experience in high school,” she said of pursuing the Seal of Biliteracy. “Spanish can be so helpful in the future. It feels really rewarding and it’s really exciting to have achieved such a high honor.”
Tatum Benito worked hard to master Spanish
so she could better communicate with family in Spain. Her father is also a high school Spanish teacher which gave her additional exposure to the language and culture.
“It’s really important nowadays to have an understanding of multiple languages,” she said, adding that earning the Seal of Biliteracy “makes me more confident in being able to talk to other people.”
Jaeda Crawford, who studied the architecture of
cathedrals in Mexico and the United States for her cultural comparison, said, “I wanted something that would give me a distinction on my diploma and I wanted to expand my knowledge of Spanish. I felt like it allowed me to dig deeper into Spanish cultures and it was very fascinating.”
Leo Lin’s Seal of Biliteracy is in English and Mandarin Chinese. Mandarin was the first language he spoke as a child, but it wasn’t until his classes in middle school and
high school that he really learned to read and write it, along with growing his vocabulary.
“It’s nice to get this achievement because I really like to demonstrate that I’m capable and proficient in both languages,” he said. “It’s another tool that I have in my toolbox to use in the future.”
All of the Seal of Biliteracy recipients will receive a certificate as well as a medallion to wear at graduation.
Massapequa High School’s Seal of Biliteracy recipients demonstrated mastery of English and at least one world language. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Senior Sienna Perino presented her cultural comparison project to teacher Jeanne Nagel in February. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Faye Taylor presented on the different customs and values in the United States and Spain for Spanish teacher Pamela Schellberg. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Massapequa Takes Action Coalition Continues Boat Smart, Boat Sober Initiative To Promote Water Safety
The Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC) is proudly continuing the Boat Smart, Boat Sober initiative, aimed at enhancing water safety awareness and practices among local boaters. Drinking or using drugs while boating poses a significant health and safety risk. It is also 100% preventable.
In collaboration with the Town of Oyster Bay, MTAC is working to raise awareness of this issue and to help keep residents safe this summer while on the water. This includes reducing boating accidents by promoting safe boating practices, as well as fostering an environment that encourages healthy decision making. MTAC
invites the community to join this important effort to make our waterways safer for everyone.
It is important to realize that on the water, even small amounts of substances may greatly impair one’s ability to function in three critical areas: balance, coordination, and judgment. Pair this with environmental
Town Sanitation, Recycling Collection Modified For Independence Day
stressors such as glare, heat, vibration, and engine noise, and you can become quickly fatigued, greatly slowing your reaction time.
Alcohol can affect a person’s ability to understand what is happening around them, which in-turn, can decrease their ability to react to an emergency or operate a boat. For new boaters, who are already unfamiliar with the water, the effects of alcohol or any substances may be even more
dangerous. As of January 1, 2025, New York State law requires all boat operators, regardless of age, to obtain and carry the NY boating safety certificate. No one may operate a vessel on the waters of NYS while impaired or intoxicated through the consumption of either alcohol or drugs. Also, if you are under the age of 21 in New York State, it is illegal to drink alcoholic beverages to smoke cannabis.
For more information about the Boat Smart, Boat Sober initiative,
please visit https://www. mtacoalition.com/aboutmtac/campaigns or contact Rameama Rahman at (516) 719-0313 x131 or rrahman@yesccc.org.
About MTAC: Massapequa Takes Action Coalition is dedicated to fostering a safe, healthy, and vibrant community through collaborative efforts and proactive initiatives. MTAC addresses various community concerns, including substance misuse prevention, mental health awareness, and public safety.
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto reminds residents that Town sanitation and S.O.R.T. Recycling collection schedules will be modified for the observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 4th.
“There will be no
sanitation or recycling collection on Friday, July 4th for residents who normally receive Town service,” Councilman Imbroto said. “Residents who generally receive Town pickup on Fridays will have their collections done the next day, Saturday, July 5th.”
The Councilman added that Town offices will be closed on July 4th, but beaches, parks and pools will remain open. For more information, visit the Town’s website, www. oysterbaytown.com.
Life After High School
(NAPSI)—Many teens feel uncertain about life after high school, but College Board’s free BigFuture® platform can empower students to discover college and career possibilities that are authentic and personalized, and ways to pay for them. For further facts and to qualify for scholarships, visit BigFuture.org.
GUTTERS
Trim, Plumbing Crown Molding, Plumbing, etc. OWNER OP ERATED Licensed/Insured Free Estimates
Cleaned! Repaired! Replaced! 20% off on gutter guards Expert Handyman & Power Washing Services Available. Reasonable, Reliable & Ready! Mention This Ad!
ES ALWAYS!! Licensed & Insured. Owner On Every Jo b TRIPLE R GU TTERS
To ny 516-799-4306 631-793-8812 Masonr y ALL MASONRY WORK AND BLACKTOP DRIVEW AYS APRONS ASPHALT, WALKWAYS, POOL PATIOS BELGIAN BLOCKS, NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS ALL PHASES OF LANDSCAPING & LAWN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE MULCH, TOP
“RARE”
GATHERINGS! Feeds 12 people and includes the following:
INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
• Pino’s Famous Cheese & Parsley Sausage Ring
• USDA Prime Marinated London Broil
• 12 USDA Prime Sirloin Sliders
• 12 USDA GRADE A Chicken Skewers
An
•
•
•
Skewers
• Marinated Pino’s Famous Slow Cooked Marinated Baby Back Ribs
• Sugar Sweet Local Corn On The Cob
“WELL-DONE”
An impressive 6 protein package featuring filet mignon, shrimp kebabs & more!
INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
• Pino’s Famous Cheese & Parsley Sausage
• Pino’s Famous Slow Cooked Marinated Baby Back Ribs
• USDA Black Angus Filet Mignon Steaks
• Boar’s Head Hot Dogs, All Natural CHOICE OF:
USDA Prime Sirloin Burgers or USDA Grade A Chicken Burgers
USDA Prime Sirloin Steak Skewers or All Natural Jumbo Shrimp Kebabs
CHOOSE THREE SIDES:
2025-2026 Elected
Officers Of The Veterans Of Foreign Wars, Sgt. Peter F. Colleran, Jr. Post 7763, Swearing-In Ceremony
The 2025-2026 elected officers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Sgt. Peter F. Colleran, Jr. Post 7763, Massapequa Park, were recently sworn in at the Commander’s Dinner and Installation Ceremony. Trustee Todd Svec of the Incorporated Village of Massapequa Park had the honor of administering the oath of office to VFW Post 7763 Commander Matthew “Bill” Gorman, while Councilman Thomas Hand had the honor of administering the oath of office to Senior Vice Commander Victor Crespo, Junior Vice Commander Luis Miranda, Quartermaster Arthur Krumm, and Trustee Pasquale DiMonda. Following the swearingin ceremony, Commander Gorman thanked all those in attendance for their continued support for Post 7763 and our country’s
Veterans. He stated in part, “This year, 2025, we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of VFW Post 7763, which was established December 9th, 1955 by Veterans from World War II and the Korean War.”
The founders’ goals of honoring and helping fellow Veterans and supporting the community continue to this day.
VFW Post 7763 is seeking new members to
help continue their efforts to honor and help our fellow Veterans and the community we serve. If you are a Veteran and are interested in joining, call the Post at 516-799-6758, email us at vfwpost7763@ gmail.com, or stop by Post headquarters at 1012 Park Blvd., Massapequa Park, on the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm when the Post’s monthly membership meeting is held.
Post Trustee DiMonda, Quartermaster Krumm, Junior Vice Commander Miranda and Senior Vice Commander Crespo being sworn in by Councilman Thomas Hand.
Post Commander Gorman being sworn in by Village of Massapequa Park Trustee Todd Svec.
