Massapequa Chamber of Commerce's Annual Community Street Fair drew thousands of residents and visitors to Broadway on June 7 for a day of shopping, entertainment, and family fun. The event featured more than 150 vendors and honored 2026 Grand Marshal Karen Gawrych for her outstanding dedication and service to the Chamber and the Massapequa community. The Chamber thanks its sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and community partners for helping make the annual event another great success.
The Massapequa Kiwanis Club recognized six exceptional graduating seniors during its annual scholarship presentation ceremony held on Wednesday, June 24, honoring students for their outstanding commitment to community service and volunteerism. Scholarships were awarded to graduates from Massapequa High School,
Seaford High School, Plainedge High School, and GC Tech BOCES.
Selected from more than 60 applicants, each recipient received a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their dedication to serving others.
Those honored were Ryan Falta, Frank Padavan, Danna Sarmiento Aguilar, Meghan Walsh, Olivia Guttman, and Christian Hardiman. Walsh,
Guttman, and Hardiman were unable to attend the ceremony.
Joining the scholarship recipients were New York State Assemblymen John K. Mikulin and Michael Durso, Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Tom Hand, Massapequa Kiwanis President Leonard “Bud” Antonelli, and Kiwanis Vice President and Scholarship Committee Chairman Jim
Taratunio.
In addition to the scholarship award, each student received a citation from Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, a Certificate of Merit from Assemblyman Michael Durso, and a Certificate of Achievement from Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino.
Also attending the ceremony was Paul
Weber, Executive Assistant for Guidance for the Massapequa School District, whose support throughout the scholarship application process was instrumental.
The Massapequa Kiwanis also recognized the guidance counselors from the participating schools for assisting students with their applications.
Someone once said… ”Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”
The Massapequa Kiwanis Scholarship Committee selects recipients based on exemplary community service, volunteerism, and their commitment to making a positive difference in their communities.
A Massapequa School District educator was recently recognized for his exceptional use of technology to support student learning. Christopher Kiernan, a fifth grade teacher at Fairfield Elementary School, was named a Nassau BOCES NASTAR.
As a Nassau Association of School Technologists Award Recipient, Mr. Kiernan was recognized for his innovation, leadership and support of technology initiatives in Massapequa. He was nominated by Fairfield computer teaching assistant Crissy Mullooly, and was recognized at a reception on June 11.
Mr. Kiernan said that he uses instructional technology in many different ways, and each year tries to add a new tool. This year, his students used Magic School’s artificial intelligence character chatbot feature to help with research during the biography unit. They interacted with AIgenerated historical figures. Through thoughtful, probing questions, students gained deeper insight into their subjects’ environments, influences and challenges. His students also used Padlet during their novel study to make their thinking visible through interactive discussion posts. Book Creator and Canva are used
to publish presentations and writing projects.
“It is an honor to receive this award,” Mr. Kiernan said, “and being at the awards reception was amazing because I got to hear how other educators in all different roles utilize technology with their students. This award is special to me because I could not have done it without my coworkers.”
Mr. Kiernan thanks Ms. Mullooly and technology learning coach Jennifer Emberley for their support in introducing him to new instructional technology tools, as well as his fifth grade teacher colleagues, who are always available to share ideas with. A
Fairfield and Massapequa High School graduate, Mr. Kiernan has worked in the district for 10 years, including the past seven as a fifth grade teacher.
“Known for his enthusiasm and initiative, Mr. Kiernan consistently embraces new instructional technologies as they are introduced, modeling innovation and adaptability for both students and colleagues,” Ms. Mullooly shared in her nomination letter. “His thoughtful leadership and purposeful use of digital tools make him a standout technology innovator and a truly deserving NASTAR award recipient.”
Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Three winners will be chosen - one in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10.
Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to Splish Splash. All entries must be submitted by July 27. One entry per person.
Please mail your submission to: Long Island Media Group Attn: Marketing 565 Broadhollow Road Suite 3 Farmingdale, NY 11735
Name: Age: Phone Number: Email address:
Town:
Would you like to subscribe to our newsletter?
Yes: No:
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwords.
Town of Oyster Bay Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato recently joined the Massapequa School Board for a special recognition of all the 2026 Championship Title winning Varsity Teams. Teams honored included Girls Varsity Lacrosse (2026 Nassau County Championship Title,) Boys Varsity Lacrosse (2026 New York State
Championship Title,) Girls Varsity Softball (2026 Long Island Championship Title,) Boys Varsity Baseball (2026 New York State Championship Title,) and Girls Varsity Track and Field (2026 Nassau County Championship Title.)
Receiver Pravato stated, “Congratulations to these outstanding studentathletes, coaches, and
parents on an extraordinary year of achievement. As someone who is proud to call this community home, seeing our high school produce so many championship titles across multiple sports is a testament to the longstanding tradition of excellence here in Massapequa. Once a Chief always a Chief!”
The May General Meeting of the Woman’s Club of Massapequa was presided by President, Antoinette La Bonte. The Child Welfare Scholarship Committee headed by Chair, Jo Ann Hundertmark presented two Massapequa High School students a $1500 Scholarship award for “most improved” during their high school years. Congratulations go to our winners Olivia Capobianco and Abigail Smar!
Special thanks to Hospitality Chairs Tami Valenti and Tammy Lestingi and their wonderful team including Tina Polek, Judy Guardiola and Billie Jean Theriot for setting up a lovely “welcome table” for our winners, family and friends.
In addition, The Child Welfare Department contributed to Birthday-In-ABox, which is a wonderful organization that provides a birthday celebration for a child living in a domestic violence shelter. This year two children were selected to receive a beautifully decorated box filled to the brim with all the fixings for a birthday party. As no party would be complete without gifts, our members Rose Falco, Lucy Carone,
Carol Dabovich and Tami Valenti made sure they included many birthday gifts for the children!
Our Membership Chair, Monica Rea, installed our newest member Claudia Peglow who was sponsored by member, Bernadette Schirmacher. Welcome Claudia!
Submitted by Maureen Larisch
The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its Annual Community Street Fair on Sunday, June 7, 2026, bringing thousands of residents, families, and visitors together for a day of shopping, entertainment,
and community spirit along Broadway in Massapequa.
The event featured more than 150 vendors, local businesses, craft exhibitors, food vendors, nonprofit organizations, and activities for all ages. The Street Fair continues to be one of the
Chamber’s signature events, showcasing the vibrant business community and the strong sense of community that makes the Massapequas such a special place to live and work.
This year’s Street Fair was especially meaningful as the
Chamber honored its 2026 Grand Marshal, Chamber Treasurer Karen Gawrych. Karen was recognized for her unwavering dedication, countless volunteer hours, and exceptional commitment to the Chamber and the Massapequa community.
Her leadership, hard work, and willingness to always lend a helping hand have played a vital role in the success of many Chamber initiatives and events.
“We were honored to recognize Karen Gawrych as our 2026 Grand Marshal,”
A hot breakfast can be just what the doctor ordered on weekends. Weekday mornings might be too hectic to whip up a hot breakfast, but that’s often not the case come Saturday and Sunday. For those with time to cook breakfast over the weekend, this recipe for a “Peasant Omelet” from Lines+Angles is delicious and simple to prepare.
1. Heat the oil in a skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the chopped potatoes and saute until almost fork tender. Add the garlic and continue cooking until the potatoes are tender. Add ham and fresh parsley, stirring until heated through. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
2. Melt butter in an omelet pan or saute pan. Beat milk and eggs together. Pour egg mixture into the omelet pan. Cook over medium heat, gently move the eggs by sliding a spatula under the eggs, to promote even cooking. Cook until eggs are set.
said Chamber President Robin Hepworth. “Karen consistently goes above and beyond for our organization. Her dedication, professionalism, and passion for serving our community make her truly deserving of this recognition.”
The Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to main sponsor TLC Companions Home Care and entertainment sponsor Masone Masonry, as well as all the sponsors, vendors, volunteers, elected officials, community organizations, and attendees who helped make this year’s Street Fair such a tremendous success.
Special thanks also go to the Chamber Board of Directors and Street Fair Chairs Keith Wilson and Sal Polito, along with Greg Massimi and Karen Gawrych, for their hard work and commitment in organizing this outstanding community event.
Makes 1 serving
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small potato, peeled and chopped into small pieces
1
garlic, peeled and minced
cooked ham, cut into bite-size pieces
fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
to taste
ground black pepper, to taste
pickle, sliced lengthwise (optional)
3. Slide cooked omelet onto plate. Season with freshly ground black pepper and top with potato and ham mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and sliced pickle. Serve immediately.
June 2026
Dear Chamber Members and Massapequa Neighbors,
As my term as President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Massapequas comes to a close, I want to take a moment to re ect on what an incredible honor it has been to serve this organization for the past two years.
I am so proud of everything we have accomplished together. During my presidency, we introduced several new community events, including our rst Breast Cancer Walk, our rst Trunk or Treat, and what has quickly become one of my proudest accomplishments, the Massapequa St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Seeing our community come together for the second annual parade this past March was truly special, and I know it will continue as a beloved tradition for many years to come.
This year, we were honored to have Massapequa native and Fox News host Brian Kilmeade serve as Grand Marshal of our St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It was a wonderful day for our community and another reminder of how much hometown pride exists here in the Massapequas. We also recently had the privilege of recognizing our Treasurer and longtime Board member, Karen Gawrych, as Grand Marshal of our Annual Street Fair. Karen has dedicated countless hours to our Chamber over the years, and it was only tting that we honor her for her service, leadership, and commitment to our organization and community.
One of the highlights of this year was moving into our beautiful new Chamber office at 511 Ocean Avenue. Our new Manhattan-style building offers a welcoming and safe environment for our members and the community. Having a permanent home for the Chamber and creating a space where businesses, residents, and visitors can connect was something I had hoped to accomplish during my presidency, and I am proud to see it become a reality.
Before I wrap up, I want to mention a couple of projects that are very special to me and that I am excited to see come to fruition. Be on the lookout for our new Chamber multi-business signs, which will showcase several of our member businesses and help increase their visibility throughout the community. In addition, two memorial benches honoring our beloved past Presidents, Patricia Orzano and Anthony Ventiera, will soon be installed at Marjorie R. Post Community Park. These benches will serve as a lasting tribute to two individuals whose dedication, leadership, and love for the Chamber helped shape our organization and community for many years.
Our Chamber membership has grown to over 300 members, the strongest membership in our history. We are also ending the year in the best nancial position we have ever been in. These accomplishments did not happen by chance. They are the result of the hard work, dedication, and passion of our Board of Directors, volunteers, committee members, and Chamber staff. I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of you.
We also expanded our scholarship program, which was something I was very proud to see grow. Helping local students pursue their dreams is one of the best investments we can make in our community. We continued our food and toy drives, helping families during times when they needed a little extra support, and we had the privilege of recognizing the police officers, re ghters, and veterans who do so much for all of us every day.
These are the moments that remind me what our Chamber is really about. It’s not just about supporting businesses. It’s about supporting our community and the people who make the Massapequa’s such a special place to live and work.
The Massapequa’s will always hold a special place in my heart. My husband Andrew and I raised our two boys here, and like so many families, we’ve enjoyed everything that makes this community so special. Being able to give back to the town that has given so much to our family has been one of the most rewarding parts of serving as Chamber President.
I am especially proud that we are ending the year on such a high note with one of the most successful Street Fairs in Chamber history. Our Annual Street Fair is our largest fundraiser and plays a critical role in keeping our volunteer organization strong and nancially stable. The tremendous support from our sponsors, vendors, members, volunteers, and the community made this year’s event a remarkable success and a tting way to conclude an unforgettable year.
Again, I want to extend my sincere thanks to our Executive Board and Board of Directors for your support, dedication, and countless hours of volunteer service. Everything we have accomplished over the past two years has been a true team effort. Your commitment, ideas, and willingness to step up whenever needed have helped make our Chamber stronger than ever. It has been an honor to serve alongside each of you, and I am grateful for your friendship, support, and shared commitment to our business community.
As I pass the torch to my dear friend Sal Polito, who has dedicated over 25 years of service to our Chamber, I do so with complete con dence. Sal’s experience, knowledge, and commitment to our community will ensure that the Chamber continues to thrive and grow. I know the Chamber will be in great hands under his leadership, and I look forward to supporting him and the Board in any way I can as I join the ranks of our Past Presidents.
Thank you to our members, sponsors, volunteers, community leaders, and residents for your support throughout my presidency. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this amazing organization and the community that I love so much. With gratitude,
Robin Hepworth President, Massapequa Chamber of Commerce
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom Hand announce the Town’s S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) and Homeowners Cleanup Days for this summer, with dates scheduled for weekends in July and August. Residents can drop off materials at the Old Bethpage Solid Waste Disposal Complex, located at 101 BethpageSweet Hollow Road in Old Bethpage.
S.T.O.P. programSaturday, July 11th & Saturday, August 8th from 9am –4pm: collects various hazardous materials, including: asbestos material (double bagged); automobile batteries; automobile tires (with or without rims); brake and transmission fluids; drain and oven cleaners; fire extinguishers; fares; fluorescent bulbs; gasoline; pesticides and
insecticides; oil-based and latex paint; outdoor gas grill propane tanks; photo chemicals; rechargeable and button batteries; small aerosol cans; smoke detectors; solvents; spot removers; thermostats; waste motor oil and antifreeze; and wood preservatives.
“Improperly disposing of products such as waste oil, oven cleaner or paint thinner could contaminate your water supply,” said Supervisor
Continued On 18
Notice of formation of Forces of Nature Studio LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 04/16/2026. Office located in Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 58 Parkhill Ave, Massapequa NY 11758. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
MASS - 891 - 6/17, 6/24, 7/1, 7/8, 7/15 & 7/22/26
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8th
7:00PM
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: STRAWBERRY FIELDS –BEATLES TRIBUTE
FRIDAY, JULY 10th
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: SOMETHIN' FRESH
The Town of Babylon hosts its 2026 Summer Concert Series at the Tanner Park Bandshell, 400 Baylawn Avenue in Copiague. Join us for an evening of live music as part of the Town of Babylon’s Summer Concert Series. Featuring free weekly outdoor performances and tribute bands. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a great night of entertainment. Weather permitting. For more information, please visit https://townofbabylonny.gov/ calendar.aspx
FRIDAY, JULY 10th & SATURDAY, JULY 11th
9:30AM-3:00PM
INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD SALE FUNDRAISER
Rain or Shine. Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Avenue (@ Lake Ave) in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-0221. No Vendors/Free Admission
SATURDAY, JULY 11th
9:00AM-1:00PM
AMITYVILLE FARMER'S MARKET
The Amityville Farmer's Market runs Saturday mornings on the Great Lawn at 25 Broadway in Amityville, next to the historic First United Methodist Church. Amityville Farmer’s Market is sponsored by the Bay Village Civic Association. There will be a local farmer, and many vendors. For more information, contact
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 information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
amityfarmers market @gmail.com or bayvillagecivic@aol.com.
SUNDAY, JULY 12th
3:00PM-7:00PM MEMORIAL PICNIC
Please join us at Firemen's Park in Lindenhurst, in celebrating the life of Paul, who proudly worked at Exotic Wines & Liquors in Lindenhurst for over 15 years. All who knew and loved Paul are welcome. For more information, please call Elaine 631-226-3965
MONDAY, JULY 13th
1:00PM-7:00PM BLOOD DRIVE
Knights of Columbus, 2183 Jackson Ave., in Seaford, will be hosting a Blood Drive for the New York Blood Center. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, contact Charlie Barr, 516-510-4703
SATURDAY, JULY 18th
10:00AM-4:00PM
WANTAGH PRESERVATION SOCIETY'S 5TH ANNUAL ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
Rain date Saturday July 19th. On museum grounds 1700 Wantagh Ave, in Wantagh. Cars from the 1960's & older. Entrance fee - $1. Refreshments for sale, museum complex sites will be open, 50/50 , music. For more information, email: wantaghmuseum@gmail.com
THRUJULY 19th
FAIR HOURS: 5:00PM11:00PM weekdays and NOON11:00PM Saturday - Sunday EMPIRE STATE FAIR at Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an
adult age 21+ Enjoy Fireworks by Grucci, midway rides, family entertainment, favorite fair food & more! For more information, please call 866-666-3247 or Empire State Fair
FRIDAY, JULY 24th
7:00PM-11:00PM DISCO NIGHT
LIVE music by Deverne Williams & The Vintage Soul Band, Buffet dinner, beer/wine/soda, dessert & coffee included. $45 per person. Call Barbara Napoli 631-786-9306 for advance reservations. Brumidi Lodge Sons & Daughters of Italy in America, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park
NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th TIMES VARY 2026 JONES BEACH BANDSHELL SUMMER CONCERT
The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation is thrilled to announce the 2026 Bandshell Summer Concert Series at Jones Beach State Park! The Bandshell hosts free events at the Field 4 Boardwalk. This event is our way to get people to sing, dance, and laugh with friends and family at the beach. Every night through September 6th (excluding July 1st –July 6th) we have programming for everyone to enjoy. This program is sponsored by the Natural Heritage Trust, WBAB 102.3 and WBLI 106.1 Radio Stations. For the most up to date information on performance status and schedule, please contact Jones Beach State Park at 516-7851600.
BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276 Call The Classifi eds 631-226-2636 Pres s 276
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you. THE power of CLAS SIFIED!
HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?
Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?
Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276
GET YOUR AD NOTICED!
Ca ll Our Classifi ed Dept. 631-226-2636 press “2”
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS! Call toda y! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646
Call The Classifi eds 631-226-2636 Ext. 276
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”.
A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
Passalacqua, NYS Licensed RE Salesperson
Saladino. “Anything poured on the ground or put into cesspools, storm drains, or recharge systems can work its way down to the aquifer or our waterways.”
Homeowners Cleanup Day –Saturday, July 25th & Saturday, August 22nd from 8:30am – 4pm: collects non-hazardous waste only, including: air conditioners; all e-waste; campers; boats and boat trailers (proof of ownership required - oil, gas, other fluids and batteries removed); clean, broken concrete; large metal items; propane tanks and propane torches; tires; and yard waste.
“With the start of spring, many residents begin to clean out their yards and may have large amounts of yard waste and other nonhazardous debris to dispose,” said
Councilman Hand. “Residents can bring items such as used tires, fence posts, clean broken concrete or yard waste to our Homeowners Cleanup.”
Free Paper Shredding Services
- Saturday, July 25th & Saturday, August 22nd from 8:30am – 4pm: provides residents an opportunity to destroy unwanted documents in a safe and secure manner. Residents only, no businesses, can bring up to four bankers’ boxes of paper to the shredding program. The Town’s S.T.O.P. and Homeowners programs are open to residents within the Town’s Solid Waste Disposal District. Proof of residency is required. For more information, including a full list of what is accepted at these programs, visit www. oysterbaytown.com/cleanup or call (516) 677-5848.
