June 4, 2025 North Massapequa

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South Bay's Neighbor

Reducing Your Risk Of RSV: What You Need To Know

As cold and flu season sets in, a seemingly simple cold could signal a more serious concern for some people—but there’s good news, too.

The Risk of RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that mimics cold-like symptoms. While many people recover quickly, RSV can cause severe illness, hospitalization, and even death in certain groups, particularly older adults. The virus spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact.

However, there’s a way to protect yourself: vaccination. Last year, RSV vaccines reduced the risk of hospitalization or emergency visits by 75%, making them a powerful tool in preventing severe outcomes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends RSV vaccination for:

• Everyone 75 years and older

• Adults aged 60–74 at higher risk due to chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, severe obesity, or diabetes, as well as those living in nursing homes.

Unfortunately, chronic conditions are widespread in older populations. Public health experts

encourage you to discuss your RSV risk with your healthcare provider.

Nearly 95% of adults aged 60 and older have at least one chronic health issue, and almost 80% have two or more, so talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about whether you have eligible risk conditions.

Taking Action

Champions for Vaccine Education, Equity, and Progress (CVEEP), a trusted source of information that advocates for access to recommended vaccines, emphasizes the importance of vaccination for those most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, especially in underserved communities.

RSV vaccines can be given alongside other vaccinations, and they’re free for most people. Both private and public insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover RSV vaccines. Adults who are eligible can get vaccinated against RSV at any time of year.

Find a Vaccine

To locate an RSV vaccine near you and learn more about RSV protection options, visit www. vaccines.gov or www. CVEEP.org/RSVReady.

JUNE HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, JUNE 5th

Doors open 6:30PM, Event begins 7:00PM

A HILARIOUS HYPNOSIS SHOW

Brumidi Lodge, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park, NY 11729. Admission includes a complimentary Brumidi Bento Snack Box, Coffee/Tea, Cash Bar, & Raffles. Good, clean fun appropriate for all ages. For more information, please call Linda Galensas 516-356-0949

6:45PM

BINGO THURSDAY NIGHTS

$2000 Cash Prizes. Doors Open 5:00pm. - Games start 6:45pm. Cost: 5.00. Knights of Columbus, 78 Hempstead Ave., Lynbrook, NY 11563. For more information, please call 516-887-2228

7:00PM

FOURTH ANNUAL

HERE-AND-NOW ART EXHIBITION

Sponsored by Long Island Arts Council at Freeport through June 28, Reception: Thursday, June 5, 7:00 p.m. This wide-ranging, eclectic, and inspiring show demonstrates the breadth and talent of the artists. Free Event. Freeport Memorial Library, 144 West Merrick Road Freeport, NY 11520. For more information, please call Cindy Soto 516-379-3274

FRIDAY, JUNE 6TH

10:00AM-2:00PM

FILL YOUR CLOSET SUMMER SALE

Simpson UMC & the Ilse Leibold Memorial Thrift Shop Present the Fill Your Closet Summer Sale. $5 Bag Sale, [clothing only; adults and children] New clothing slightly more $3 each. Simpson UMC, 30 Locust

HOLIDAYS

14th - FLAG DAY

15th - FATHER'S DAY

19th - JUNETEENTH

20th - SUMMER BEGINS

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

Avenue, Amityville, 11701. For more information, please call Mary 516-991-8098

SATURDAY, JUNE 7th

10:00AM–4:00PM FARMINGDALE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH YARD SALE

The Farmingdale United Methodist Church, 407 Main Street. Tons of new, used and vintage items will be available. Come one, come all! For more information, please call Karen Gierie Newman 631 884-0149

10:30AM–4:30PM MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Rain Date: 6/14/25. The Women’s Club of Farmingdale (WCF) will be sponsoring a Membership Drive on the Farmingdale Village Green as part of the Farmingdale Fire Department Craft Fair. Join Today. All Are Welcome. Bring a Friend. Volunteer Opportunities. For more information, please contact Judith Vazquez - Jude523@aol.com or Lynda Leone - lyndaleone@gmail.com

TWO PERFORMANCES 5:30PM AND 8:00PM THE BABYLON CHORALE PRESENTS: OUR TIME

Closing out their 75th concert season with a vibrant mix of ‘60s classics and contemporary hits from Broadway to pop. Bayway Arts Centre, 265 E. Main Street, East Islip. To purchase tickets online or for further information, visit www.babylonchorale.org or email info@babylonchorale.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 10th

7:00PM

REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING

7150 Republic Airport, Room 201 Farmingdale NY 11735. For more information, please call 631-7527707 x6109 or email: contactus@ republicairport.net

THURSDAY, JUNE 12th

7:00PM-10:00PM

DAVID LERNER ASSOCIATES LI POLICE APPRECIATION RUN 5K

Eisenhower Park Field 2, Parking Lot 2. East Meadow, NY 11554. Help The Long Island Running Community provide tangible support for the men & women of our local police forces. Presented by the Greater Long Island Running Club. Thursday Evening, June 12, 6:15PM 1/4 Mile FREE Kids Fun Run Start. 7:00PM 5K Start. Rain or Shine. Proceeds to Long Island Police Crisis Foundation to aid law enforcement officers and their families in emergencies. First $1000 in proceeds goes to Nassau Police Running Club and its Scholarship Fund. For more information, please call 516-531-3323

SATURDAY, JUNE 14th

7:00AM-4:00PM

EMPIRE STATE RIDE LONG ISLAND (5TH ANNUAL)

Downtown Oyster Bay, 1 Shore Ave Oyster Bay, NY 11771. A day of cycling and a post ride Street Fair in support of cancer research! Historic Oyster Bay is the setting for the Empire State Ride Long Island featuring a choice of four scenic North Shore routes designed for riders of all ages and abilities. The Finish Line Street Fair offers live music, food trucks and fun. For more information, please call 833-465-1730

The spirit of Massapequa pride will be on full display as the community comes together for a “Save the Chief” Festival Fundraiser on Friday, June 7, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM in the Massapequa High School parking lot. The event will feature local vendors, restaurants, and food trucks, all rallying behind a cause that strikes at the heart of Massapequa’s identity. The festival will raise funds for the Save the Chief Foundation, which was created in direct response to New York State’s efforts to mandate changes to Massapequa’s longstanding mascot and logos. All proceeds will support legal efforts to preserve the Chief name and emblem, which represent generations of tradition and community pride.

“This is more than just a fundraiser—this is a celebration of who

Community Unites For “Save The Chief” Festival Fundraiser On June 7th

we are,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “The Chief logo represents our heritage, our unity, and our pride. We’re fighting back against a onesize-fits-all mandate that disrespects local values and local voices.”

Festival Committee Members, made up of diverse local business leaders, all volunteered for the task of creating, building and supporting this event not only because the Chief logo and name is an integral part of Massapequa and its history… but all feel we must resist the overreaching arm of New York State government.

2025 Massapequa Class President Billy Sciurba added, “The Chief is a symbol of Massapequa’s pride. The Chief is a badge of honor, not just for students, but for everyone in this special community. It’s something brought upon an early age,

and many dream of the day they are able to represent our town and mascot as they get older. Massapequa lives through the Chief, and I cannot imagine our town without it. Once a Chief always a Chief.”

Oyster Bay Town Councilman Steve Labriola added, “Massapequa’s Chief is a proud symbol that has united students, families, and alumni for decades. We stand with our community

in defending this legacy and ensuring our traditions are not erased by misguided state policies.”

The festival is expected to draw a large crowd of residents, alumni, and supporters. Activities will include family-friendly entertainment, raffles, and merchandise, with every dollar raised going toward legal fees and advocacy efforts.

School Board President

Kerry Wachter emphasized the importance of community involvement, saying, “This is a grassroots effort by the people of Massapequa to preserve our identity and honor the history that our mascot represents. The response has been overwhelming and deeply inspiring.”

Oyster Bay Councilman Tom Hand echoed the sentiment: “We are proud to stand with Massapequa

families and students in this effort. The Chief is not just a logo - it’s a symbol of excellence, tradition, and community spirit. We will not let Albany take that away.”

For more information or to donate to the cause join in person on June 7th and show your support. For more information or to donate, please contact ChiefLogoFundraiser@ gmail.com.

Ames Students Continue The Fight For ALS Champions

A disease with no known cause or cure sparked ninth graders into action as the ALS Ride for Life visited the Massapequa High School Ames Campus on May 13. Students lined the sidewalk along the front driveway for the brief but impactful event that has become a staple over the past 15 years.

With “We Are the Champions” playing,

students held up signs of encouragement as they welcomed Ride For Life champion Jordan. He is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurogenerative disease that causes muscle weakness and paralysis.

Jordan expressed his gratitude for the support from the students. He also

pointed to the wheelchairaccessible van that was purchased for his family by ALS Ride for Life to help him continue living his life, allowing him to watch his daughters run track or see their dance recitals. Donations to the organization are what makes that possible, he explained, and Ames presented ALS Ride for Life with $200 raised

by the student government.

Student leaders marched into the driveway holding banners with the faces of past Ride For Life participants who have since passed.

Christine Pendergast, wife of the organization’s founder, Chris Pendergast, spoke about its origins as a way of raising more awareness.

“We were both educators and we knew that students

were the future, so we have been speaking to hundreds of thousands of students over the years across Long Island,” she said, adding that the organization is still going strong despite Chris’s death four-and-a-half years ago because “so many patients need the help.”

Christine visited the school prior to Ride For Life for a presentation to students about ALS and the challenges it presents to patients.

Ames students leaders noted that the presentation about ALS and the Ride For Life visit made a meaningful impact. Robert Stork said seeing people who are fighting the disease will encourage others to keep fundraising and spreading awareness.

“We want to get it out to the world so we can find a cure for this,” he said.

“Everyone rallying together was inspirational,” added Brooke McGovern. “It was really nice to see.”

Anamilena Serrano said that Massapequa is the perfect destination for ALS Ride For Life because it is a tight-knit community where people rally behind important causes.

“What I find most inspiring is that they continue to ride every year and bring awareness to the cause,” she said.

Principal Tania Willman said that having ALS Ride For Life visit Ames each year shows students a powerful message about overcoming obstacles. She thanked students for coming together as a community and supporting the event.

“We are going to remain optimistic and we are never going to lose hope, those are really important pillars,” Ms. Willman said. “We have so much appreciation and gratitude to riders past and present for instilling that message in us.”

Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District

Massapequa High School’s Ames Campus welcomed the ALS Ride For Life on May 13, a tradition that has spanned about 15 years.
Ninth graders held up signs of encouragement for ALS patients.
Students welcomed ALS champion Jordan to the school.
Leaders from student government held banners that included the pictures of past Ride For Life participants who have since passed.
As Principal Tania Willman addressed students, ninth grade student leader Robert Stork presented this year’s donation to ALS champion Jordan.

District Attorney & Town Partner To Protect Seniors From Scammers

In a concerted effort to safeguard senior citizens from increasingly prevalent scams, Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly and Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino are partnering to host an educational seminar on Monday, June 9th at 1:30pm at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W. Carl Street, Hicksville, NY 11801. The initiative aims to equip seniors and their caregivers with the knowledge and tools

necessary to recognize, report, and combat fraudulent schemes.

Senior citizens, often targeted due to their limited familiarity with modern technology and scam tactics, face heightened risks of manipulation. Factors such as loneliness and medicationrelated vulnerabilities can exacerbate their susceptibility.

Recognizing these challenges, District Attorney Donnelly and Supervisor Saladino are

committed to providing essential information and resources to help protect the senior community. The seminars will cover a range of topics including:

• Common scam tactics and how to identify them

• Steps to take if you suspect a scam

• Practical strategies for safeguarding personal information

• Resources for reporting fraudulent activities

“Protecting our seniors is a top priority,” said Supervisor Saladino. “By working with District Attorney Donnelly, we are taking proactive steps to ensure that our elderly community members are informed and empowered against deceitful tactics.”

District Attorney Donnelly stated, “My office is dedicated to combating fraud using all the tools at our disposal, and community engagement is vital to keeping Nassau County safe. Through these educational seminars, seniors will learn how to spot the warning signs of a scam and, most importantly, protect themselves and their finances. Working together with leaders like Supervisor Saladino, we can fight back against senior scams across our county and blunt their impact on our most vulnerable residents.”

Residents are encouraged to attend these seminars to gain valuable insights and share the information with family and friends.

Best Solution To Remembering Passwords

(NAPSI)—Perhaps the best solution to difficulty remembering passwords is to not use them, opting for a method with much higher security, such as biometrics—which authenticate individual people through their faceprint, voiceprint, fingerprints or iris scan for superior convenience and security. Learn more at www. aware.com.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Lamb Chop Lollipops with Jalapeño Mustard

Father’s

Day is an opportunity to shower Dad with extra love and attention. Special outings and heartfelt gifts typically are part of the celebration. Some children may want to go above and beyond by whipping up a meal that Dad is sure to enjoy — particularly a father who spends his fair share of time by the stove or in front of the grill. Individuals may be quick to think steaks or chicken when considering grilled fare, and these foods certainly can be delicious offerings. However, juicy and flavorful lamb also tastes great when cooked on the grill. This recipe for “Lamb Chop Lollipops with Jalapeño Mustard” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) can be eaten by hand right off the bone when tailgating with Dad or served more traditionally at home with the family.

Serves 6-8

2 frenched* racks of lamb (8 bones each)

1 sprig fresh rosemary

2 tablespoons Chinese hot mustard

3 cloves garlic, minced

11⁄2 teaspoons kosher salt

1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

Rinse the racks of lamb lightly under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels, then cut into individual chops by cutting between the bones. Strip the rosemary leaves from the stem and chop; discard the stem. Combine the hot mustard with the garlic, salt, pepper, oil, and half of the chopped rosemary. Rub the lamb chops with this mixture and let them

Jalapeño Mustard

1 sprig fresh rosemary

8 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and diced Juice of 1 lemon

* Frenched refers to meat cut away to expose part of the bone.

marinate in the fridge for 2 hours before grilling. Grill or broil the lamb chops quickly to desired doneness. Serve hot with Jalapeño Mustard as a dipping sauce.

For the Jalapeño Mustard: Strip the rosemary leaves from the stem and chop; discard the stem. Combine the rosemary with the Dijon mustard, jalapeño, and lemon juice.

LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP

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Registration Open For Summer Youth Ice Hockey Program

Imbroto Announces Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto announced that registration is open for the Town’s Summer Youth Ice Hockey Program for boys and girls ages 8U- 16U. This program includes

instructional technique work, practices and more. Clinics spanning 10 weeks in duration will also be available for registration including all girls’ clinics, 6U clinics, adult learn to play clinics and advanced skills for

Registration For Sunrise And Sunset Beach Yoga Is Open

Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that registration for the Town’s Beach Yoga Program is open. Classes will be held at both the north shore, at Beekman Beach in Oyster Bay, and the south shore, at Philip B. Healey Beach at Florence Avenue in Massapequa. The program will run for 10 weeks beginning on June 15th and include options for sunrise and sunset

sessions.

Councilwoman Walsh stated, “Our Beach Yoga Program offers a unique and relaxing experience that blends the mindful movements of yoga with the natural beauty of the sunrise or sunset, all while surrounded by the calming atmosphere of the beach. These guided sessions promote strength, clarity, and balance against an inspiring coastal setting designed to restore overall

well-being.”

Registration is available online at www. oysterbaytown.com/sports. Fees include $60 for residents and $70 for nonresidents.

All participants must bring their own yoga mat. For more information, please visit www. oysterbaytown.com or call the Recreation Division at (516) 797-7945.

travel players clinics. Programs will begin on July 7, 2025.

“This recreational and instruction program is designed to give youngsters a great way to learn the correct fundamentals of one of America’s most popular sports,” said Councilman Imbroto. “In addition to

receiving instruction on the proper techniques of skating, stickhandling and shooting, participants will make new friends and create lifelong memories.”

To register, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ sports.

All registrants must provide a copy of their birth certificate, proof of residency, and payment for registration.

The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC) announces a $2,000 scholarship for college juniors/seniors or post graduate students who are studying Journalism, Marketing/ Communications, or Healthcare Administration. (The scholarship is not for clinical-based study.)

All participants must provide their own equipment and should have some skating ability. For more information, call the rink at (516) 433-7465, x 8234 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ hockey.

The Ann Marie Brown Memorial Scholarship honors the late Ann Marie Brown, who served as vice president for government and public relations for the Hospital Council from 1983 to 1993. The scholarship is administered by the Hospital Council’s Communications Committee. Filing deadline is June 20, 2025. For more information and an application go to the NSHC scholarship page or call 631-334-8321.

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Saladino And Phillips To Offer Free Senior Workshops To Residents

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino is partnering with Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips to host Free Senior Workshops designed to provide valuable resources and information to the Town’s senior community. The topics covered at these workshops will include possible unclaimed funds, senior discounts, emergency preparedness, and self-defense tips.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “I’m proud to join with County Comptroller Elaine Phillips to offer this informative program to residents. These workshops will go over a wide variety of topics and resources our seniors should be made aware of and take advantage of. By supporting and educating our seniors, we strengthen the fabric of our entire community.”

Workshops will be offered:

Wednesday, June 11th from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Oyster Bay Community Center- 59 Church Street, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

Tuesday, June 17th from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hicksville Community Center- 28 W. Carl Street, Hicksville, NY 11801

County Comptroller Elaine Phillips stated,

“The health and safety of our senior residents is of

the utmost importance. Whether you’re looking to enhance your personal safety or understand how to better utilize available senior resources, this workshop is designed to help you live more confidently and securely every day.” For more information, please contact Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips’ Office at (516) 5712386.

Monteleone Announces Pickleball Lessons

Oyster Bay Town

Councilman Andrew Monteleone announced registration is now underway for instructional pickleball lessons tailored for adults. Lessons will be held at Allen Park in Farmingdale beginning on June 17th and aim to introduce participants to the fundamentals of pickleball or enhance the skills of

those already familiar with the game. Sessions are separated into beginner, advanced beginner, and intermediate levels.

“What makes pickleball truly special is its accessibility. It’s a sport that welcomes players of all ages and abilities, providing a lowimpact yet exhilarating way to stay active and socialize. Whether you’re playing

for fitness, recreation, or competition, pickleball offers endless opportunities for enjoyment,” said Councilman Monteleone.

Registration will take place online at: www. oysterbaytown.com/sports.

The fee is $75, and residents must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s

license.

Lessons are for adults 18 and over, 1½ hours long, and will run for four consecutive weeks. Residents are asked to wear sneakers and bring their own paddle as only a limited number of paddles will be available to borrow. For more information, please call (516) 797-7945 or visit www.oysterbaytown. com.

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