South Bay's Neighbor
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.
Tech Teacher Is A Teacher’s Federal Credit Union Grant Winner
Massapequa School District technology education teacher Matthew Swanson won first place in the annual Teacher Appreciation Week Contest, sponsored by Teacher’s Federal Credit Union. As the top winner in the grades 6-8 division, he received a $2,500 prize and a bunch of swag for his students.
Mr. Swanson teaches three periods daily of eighth grade technology at Berner Middle School. He also is at Massapequa High School for Architectural Drawing and Video Game Design, and advises the high school Robotics Club. His prize is at the middle school level and plans to use the funds for new tools and equipment for the Berner technology program.
Earlier this year, he was nominated by high school teacher Ernie Kabelka. Mr. Swanson then submitted more information about himself and his classes, and
activity, with textbooks stacked on top at the end to test their durability.
“I like building, I like creating,” Mr. Swanson said. “It’s as simple as that. I like to build stuff. I always come to school eager for the day and ready to get my students engaged in their projects.”
Patricia LiVecchi, supervisor of career and technical education, congratulated Mr.
Swanson on this deserved recognition and noted that he is an exceptional teacher within a department full of top-tier educators.
“I have the best technology teachers,” she said. “They want this program to do well. Every innovation they come up with helps the students. The teachers make the learning relevant to today’s world.”
became one of six finalists from among about 1,000 nominees Following a week of online voting, he emerged as the middle school winner.
In addition to the monetary prize, he received several boxes of goodies for his students including drawstring bags,
piggy banks, pens and highlighters.
Mr. Swanson, who has been a technology teacher in the district for 15 years, said the eighth grade course is very hands-on for students. They complete several projects throughout the year using both traditional
and modern methods. They make phone speaker amplifiers with a computer numerical control router that cuts the wood after students create 3D models on a computer. The boxes are finished off with custom laser engraving. The bridge-building project is a manual cut-and-glue
Mr. Swanson plans to use the grant money for new tools and equipment for his eighth grade technology classes. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District
The Best Traditional Pizza
Massapequa Fifth Graders Rejoice And Reminisce At Year-End Picnics
For six years they worked hard, so Massapequa fifth graders earned a day to play hard. Late May featured fifth grade picnics so the soon-to-be middle schoolers could celebrate the success of their elementary years.
McKenna Elementary School’s fifth graders walked from the school to nearby Brady Park on May 27, where they played basketball, kickball and volleyball, and
enjoyed some time on the playground. After lunch from All-American provided by the PTA, students got their yearbooks.
The fifth graders wore their Class of 2025 T-shirts that were designed
McKenna Elementary School fifth graders enjoyed some time together on the playground at Brady Park for their fifth grade picnic on May 27. Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
by classmate Scarlett Palmerin. Students were invited to submit designs in fourth grade, and the winner was chosen by a grade-wide vote and printed on T-shirts to wear for special events during
their last year of elementary school.
Birch Lane Elementary School’s fifth graders donned their blue and gold Fifth Grade Class 2025-Senior Class 2032 T-shirts during their picnic
on May 28 at Marjorie Post Park. More than 100 students participated in games and relay races, had All-American burgers for lunch courtesy of the PTA and visited an ice cream truck.
Birch Lane students enjoyed their treats from the ice cream truck.
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwords. See this puzzle and its answers at
RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Grilled Striper With Cactus And Black Beans
grilling season, and people are on the lookout for delicious recipes they can easily cook outdoors. Many fall back on tried-and-true favorites because they may be apprehensive about grilling with new ingredients. But grilling is more than just burgers and steaks. In fact, seafood is a great option for the grill, and it cooks up in a snap.The following recipe for “Grilled Striper with Cactus and Black Beans” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) is a great seafood dish to grill up this summer.
Serves 4
4 fillets wild striped bass, approximately 8 ounces each 1 teaspoon southwestern blend rub
1 tablespoon canola oil
4 cactus paddles (called nopales in Mexican markets)
3 cups Bacon-Laced Black Beans (see below)
1 lemon
DIRECTIONS:
Clean the fish well, removing any bones and scales, and pat dry. Dust each fillet with the rub, then brush each with canola oil just before grilling. Grill over high heat for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through. The time may vary, depending on your grill. Clean the cactus paddles well with a sharp knife, removing any small needles. Grill the cactus over high heat, just tossing it right onto the grill bars — no oil, no seasonings. Once the cactus begins to bubble slightly, turn over and season with a sprinkle of the rub. As soon as both sides are lightly charred and the cactus is bubbling inside, it’s ready to serve. Pull the cactus from the grill and cut into strips. Line a platter with a layer of the cactus and top with the black beans; then lay the
grilled striper on top. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon and serve.
BACON-LACED BLACK BEANS
Serves 8 to 10
1 pound black turtle beans, rinsed under cold water
1 large yellow onion, diced and divided 4 strips bacon, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt
1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS:
Place the beans and half of the chopped onion in a saucepot with just enough cold water to cover. Soak in the fridge overnight, then simmer for approximately 1 hour (do not drain), just until the beans become soft. Strain the liquid into a separate bowl and keep it for later. In a separate pot, render the bacon, then add the remaining onion and the garlic. Sauté until the onion has softened; then pour the beans and 1 cup of their cooking liquid into the pot. Puree the mix with a stick blender until smooth.
The Original Salpino of Wantagh, N. Babylon & Dix Hills
JULY HAPPENINGS
THURSDAY, JULY 10th
6:15PM-8:00PM EVENING GARDEN VOLUNTEER GROUP
Biweekly Thursday evening garden meet-up. Bring your garden gloves, snacks, and whatever else to our evening garden meetup. Recommended for adults and families with children 12y and up. No cost Meet at the gazabo in the volunteer garden. Bring water or a reusable cup/bottle. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
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
HOLIDAYS
4th - INDEPENDENCE 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
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
SATURDAY, JULY 26th
6:30PM NIGHT AT THE RACES
Will be held at Wade-Burns VFW 7279, 560 N. Delaware Avenue, Lindenhurst, Doors open 6:30 p.m. Admission $1. For more information, please call 631888-9854
SUNDAY, JULY 27th
11:00AM-12:30PM
CARING FOR WILDLIFE PROGRAM AND WALK
At Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown, they offer wildlife rehabilitation at their nature center and take care of injured, sick, and orphaned animals. In this presentation participants will meet some of the resident non-releasable animals, find out their stories, and learn what you can do to help wildlife in our area. If you’re interested in becoming a rehabber this a good first step. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
On July 12, 2025, Long Island’s new youth-led music festival, Gaze in the Garden, is coming to Stereo Garden (9 Railroad Avenue in Patchogue) for an 11-hour celebration of punk, indie, emo, and experimental sounds. Organized by 19-yearold Jess Bond of Bond Booking, this brand new fest will showcase a vibrant, genre-bending lineup of local favorites and touring acts.
The festival is entirely independent and youthrun, with a strong focus on community, creativity, and giving back. Bond, who studies music business at Berklee College of Music, created Gaze in the Garden as a platform to showcase underground artists and bring together a scene that too often gets overlooked.
The inaugural festival will proudly partner
with Hungry for Music, a nonprofit that provides musical instruments to underprivileged children and school programs. 15% of all proceeds will be donated directly to the organization to support music access for youth across the country. Featuring over a dozen bands, including two massive out-ofstate headliners, local heavy-hitters and rising underground gems, this
festival is not one to miss for any music lover!
Festival goers can expect a rotating schedule of live performances, community vendors and an open re-entry policy, encouraging attendees to explore the local shops and restaurants in downtown Patchogue throughout the day.
With an overwhelming response to the lineup teaser post, Gaze in the Garden is already proving
to be one of Long Island’s most talked-about underground events.
“This isn’t just a show, it’s something way bigger than that,” says Bond.
“It’s proof that young people can build real opportunities when they have the drive and the community behind them. I want to make a space where artists feel valued and fans feel something they’ll never forge.”
Tickets are available
now via https://tinyurl. com/5fuak6ep. Early bird tickets grant access to a secret backyard pre-party and are selling fast.
About Bond Booking: Founded and run by student and entrepreneur Jess Bond, Bond Booking represents over 30 artists across genres and specializes in curating unforgettable events that prioritize community, creativity and independence.
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United Way Of Long Island Awarded $1.3M
United Way of Long Island has been awarded a $1.3 million Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program (OAHMP). Funds will be utilized to make safety and functional home modifications and limited repairs to meet the needs of low-income elderly homeowners that allow them to age in place. This is part of the existing network of programs the organization provides to older residents including veterans’ assistance, 2-1-1 information and referral, Project Warmth, case management, financial and legal help and health and prevention services.
Long Island’s population is continuing to age; the number of residents aged 70 and older is expected to increase by more than 220,000 over the next 25 years, according to Northwell Health. Stay at home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic shed light on housing conditions that
Low-Income Elderly Homeowners Age In Place
put health and safety at risk. This program is designed to help prevent Long Island seniors from being unnecessarily hospitalized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates falls are the leading cause of injury and death in older Americans, making the program even more essential.
Recipients of this program like Peter, a Navy veteran, and retired tradesman whose home was updated with safety features like a front railing and shower grab bars have noted the marked difference in their quality of life and the profound impact this program has had. The home modification program expects to serve 150 clients over three years. To qualify, residents must live in and own private residences and be at least 62 years old (renters are also allowed).
“Seniors across Long Island have made their desire to live in their own
homes resoundingly clear, which is why the work that United Way of Long Island does is so vital,” said U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Charles E. Schumer. “I was proud to support United Way’s federal funding application for their Safe At Home For Seniors program. $1.3 million is now on its way to assist hundreds of seniors across Long Island with home repairs and modifications, allowing them to age in place with dignity, and I will continue to advocate for
our seniors’ best interests, and bringing federal investment into home and community-based services is the way to do so.”
United Way’s community partners, along with the occupational therapists will help identify the repairs most critically needed for seniors to facilitate aging in place. The types of repairs to these homes will include bathroom renovations (i.e. installing no-slip strips, grab bars, transfer benches) and accessibility features (i.e. lever handles
on all doors and faucets, handheld shower heads, wheelchair ramps).
“Helping Long Island’s seniors live safely and independently in their own homes is something I’ve fought for, and I’m proud to have helped secure this $1.3 million HUD grant for United Way of Long Island,” said Congressman Andrew Garbarino (NY02). “This funding will go toward critical home modifications that help prevent falls—one of the leading causes of injury for adults over 65—and reduce the need for costly hospital stays or long-term care. United Way has long been a trusted partner in serving our communities,
and I’ll keep pushing for the federal resources our seniors need to age with dignity and peace of mind.”
“There has never been a more important time than now to ensure the safety of our senior citizens when living independently at home,” said Theresa A. Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island. “Small changes in seniors’ homes can make a huge difference in their lives. This HUD modification program will enhance United Way’s already existing Safe at Home for Seniors program allowing our elderly neighbors to safely age in place.”
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New York Blood Center Issues
Urgent Call For Donors
New York Blood Center (NYBC) has issued an urgent call for blood donations, especially from those with types O+ and O- blood. The current supply of O- blood, the universal blood type used in emergencies, has dropped to a critically low two-day level, and overall collections are nearly 20% below hospital demand. NYBC expects to collect only about 6,500 donations this week, falling approximately 1,600 donations short of what is needed to maintain a safe and stable blood supply in New York.
Spring travel, school breaks, and packed calendars have kept regular donors away—leaving donation levels dangerously low at a time when they should be ramping up. Each year, more than 56,000 traumas are reported in New York State, most occurring between May and September when accidents,
car crashes, and violent injuries rise dramatically.
Blood transfusions are often needed to treat traumas, and a spike in traumatic accidents can cause a strain on the blood supply.
Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.
“Spring can be an exciting season with warmer weather on the way and fun holiday celebrations, but it’s also a critical time of year for the blood supply,” said
Andrea
Cefarelli,
Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center.
“As we start to build our inventory ahead of the trauma-heavy summer season, the need is more
urgent than ever. We’re calling on our community, especially type O donors, to roll up their sleeves and make a donation today. Your blood donation could be the lifeline that ensures our hospitals are ready to face any emergency that comes their way.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900.
To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-9332566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still make a lifesaving impact by supporting NYBC’s mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time.
