May 29, 2024 Massapequa

Four Low-Cost Marketing Tips to Boost Your Business This Summer

By JoAnn Cilla

I love talking with local small business owners because I always get great ideas from them on how to promote my business. For my article this month, I decided to share with you four low-cost marketing tips that will help drive sales in the summer without breaking the bank.

Work with Other Local Businesses – This idea is a “no brainer.” Team up with nearby businesses to run joint promotions. This could be as simple as promoting each other on social media or as elaborate as co-hosting events, offering package deals, or running contests. It’s a “win-win. You can expand your reach, find new customers, and make your existing customers happy as well.

Use Social Media Creatively - Social media platforms are perfect for engaging directly with our local community. You can share promotional events, tell your story, and thank loyal customers. You can run contests where customers share photos using

JOANN CILLA

your product in exchange for a chance to win a prize. However, you must use the right social media platform. You can’t be only on Facebook if all your customers are on Instagram. Ask them how they want to connect with you on social media and build your presence there!

Host or Sponsor Local Events - Summer is the best time to host events in our town, and to get involved in community activities. Consider hosting a workshop, a free class, or a community service event that is part of your business. You can also sponsor a local sports team or maybe a town

event. Events are a great and inexpensive way to promote your business locally.

Offer Time - Limited Promotions – What customer doesn’t love a limited time offer? Memorial Day, Father’s Day, and Independence Day are all great opportunities to attract new customers looking to make seasonal purchases. Offer 10% off a product or service the week before Memorial Day to bring customers into your store. The deals can be promoted through flyers, social media posts, and email campaigns to your existing customer base (You can give them something extra if they refer a new customer to your business).

The goal for these low-cost marketing tips is to increase your visibility and enhance your connection to the community. It’s a wonderful way to say “thank you” to your loyal customers too. With creativity and effort, your business can grow nicely this summer, proving that effective marketing doesn’t have to be expensive.

Advance Care Plans

The United States population is rapidly aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), by 2030, the number of Americans aged 65 and older will more than double to 71 million older Americans, comprising

roughly 20 percent of the U.S. population. With age comes the added burden of dealing with illnesses such as heart failure, dementia and cancer, any one of which can leave you unable to make decisions involving

your care. Unless you have a plan in place, the burden will fall on your family. Protect your loved ones from having to make life and death decisions on your behalf by developing an advance care plan today.

Hospital Association Offers

$2,000

Scholarship

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

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.)

is administered by the Hospital Council’s Communications Committee.

Filing deadline is June 14, 2024. For more information and an application go to the NSHC scholarship page or call 631-3348321.

Town, Massapequa Chamber Of Commerce To Host Street

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board announced that the Town is partnering with the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce to host the Annual Street Fair. Held at Broadway and Veteran’s Blvd in Massapequa, this event will bring the community together for a day of family

fun on Sunday, June 2nd, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Rain Date Sunday, June 9th).

“We’re supporting downtown businesses and keeping our local economy vibrant by hosting the Annual Street Fair in partnership with the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This

Fair On June 2nd

fair is a great opportunity for residents to come out and support local businesses while enjoying a family-fun day on Long Island. You won’t want to miss it!”

The event includes Showmobile performances featuring DJ sets, live music by TIME WAS and L.I. REWIND BAND, and the Amvets Post 88 Honor

Guard. In addition to the musical offerings, families can enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, and a variety of rides suitable for all ages. Craft and food vendors will line the streets, offering an assortment of culinary delights and handcrafted goods to peruse. Magician John Lepre will also be in attendance. Jen and Mike Masone will be honored as

Receiver Pravato Advises Late School Taxpayers Of Last Chance

To assist property owners who missed the May 10th deadline for paying their 2023-2024 School taxes, Town of Oyster Bay Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato reminds residents that they can still pay the bill by May 31st with a State mandated 2% late payment penalty while avoiding additional interest and fees from accruing on their property.

Late payers should immediately contact Receiver Pravato’s office at (516) 624-6400 if they did not receive a second notification with a delinquent tax bill. Payments postmarked after May 31st cannot be accepted since the collection warrant will have expired. Those payments must be sent to the Nassau

County Treasurer at 1 West Street, Mineola, NY 11501.

In September, the Nassau County Treasurer will be mailing notices to all property owners with taxes in arrears. Receiver Pravato advises homeowners who fall under those circumstances to contact the Nassau County Treasurer at (516) 571-2090 to determine the amount

due. They may also visit the Treasurer’s office at 1 West Street, Mineola, NY 11501.

Receiver Pravato noted, “Taxpayers in the Town of Oyster Bay are already paying some of the highest property taxes in the nation, and I want to make sure that our residents do not pay more out of pocket than they have to.”

the event’s Grand Marshals.

The event wouldn’t be possible without the support of local sponsors, including Entertainment Sponsor Masone Masonry, Ride Sponsor Massapequa Imaging, Silver Sponsors Allstate and Extreme Auto Body, and Bronze Sponsors DQ Grill & Chill, Jersey Mike’s, James Funeral Home, Webster

Bank, The Bristal Assisted Living, Island Federal, and Northwell Health

For further information regarding the Annual Street Fair, including vendor opportunities and event updates, please visit MassapequaChamber.org/ events or call 516-5411443.

June Happenings

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

9:00AM-2:00PM

ANTIQUE VINTAGE BOOK SALE

The Friends of the West Islip Library is doing a Vintage & Antique Book Sale. Held at the West Islip Public Library, 3 Higbie Lane. There will be a wide variety of books, including history, biographies, general fi ction, children's literature, classics, and more. For more information call 631-206-4206.

10:00AM-4:00PM

MEDIEVAL HISTORY DAY

The Canton of Lions End, in the Crown Province of Østgarðr returns to the Village Green in Farmingdale for the Fourth Annual Farmingdale Medieval History Day. This free event is intended for all ages, with family-oriented crafts, hands-on demonstrations and exhibits for adults and children. Rain date is June 8th. For more information visit www.farmingdalevillage.com.

10:00AM-5:00PM

WANTAGH SPRING FESTIVAL

The Wantagh KIwanis Club will once again host the Annual Wantagh Spring Festival at the Wantagh Train Station, along Sunrise Highway (between Beech Street and Oakland Avenue). Admission is free. For more information call 516-644-5615 or visit www.lifairs.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

1:00PM-4:30PM

66TH ANNUAL ROSE SHOW

The Long Island Rose Society’s rose show will be at Clark Botanic Garden, located on 193 I.U. Willets Rd., Albertson. The theme is ‘Vines

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 x211 or send events to natalieraccuglia@longislandmediagroup.com.

and Roses’ and the fl oor will be open to the public. Hundreds of different varieties of roses will be on display, as well as many rose arrangements. Gift baskets will be auctioned off. The American Rose Society’s Consulting Rosarians will be there to answer any rose related questions. For more information email marionfromeo@aol.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

7:30AM-3:00PM

5K RUN/WALK 4 LIFE

Held at Cedar Creek Park in Seaford, Parking Field #6. Rain or shine. Adult $25, Students (ages 12-18) $15, Kids (under 12) are free. Entry fee includes hydration station on course, post-race refreshments, top fi nishers awards, run/walk bibs. For further information regarding sponsorships, donations, registration, and pre-sale raffl es contact Regina at 516-798-8746 or email mpiccolo@lifecenterli.org

10:00AM-3:00PM

CRAFT FAIR/YARD SALE

St. Mark’s Islip will be holding their annual craft fair/yard sale at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. It will be held in the church yard at 754 Montauk Highway, Islip, NY. Shoppers throughout both Suffolk and Nassau Counties will get to explore merchandise from Long Island vendors who will display and sell their wares. If you have questions, please call Robyn LoCricchio at 516-459-2976.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

3:00PM

CONCERT SERIES

The fi rst in a series of concerts to

raise funds for a new church organ. The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn presents, Craig Schulman on Broadway. Premium admission $65, includes seating in the front, and a post concert reception, including a question and answer meet and greet with Mr. Schulman. General admission $40, student admission $25. For tickets please call 631-275-3461.

TUESDAY, JUNE 11

7:00PM

REPUBLIC AIRPORT MEETING

The next meeting of the Republic Airport Commission, which is open to the public, will be held at 7150 Republic Airport, Rm 201, Farmingdale NY. For information call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email: info@republicairport.net.

THURSDAY, JUNE 27

7:00PM-10:00PM

MUSIC BINGO

Yes Community Counseling Center will host a special fundraiser to support the mental health and wellness of local children. $50 per ticket, includes buffet and bingo. Raffl e tickets available at event. For more information call 516-799-3203 or visit www.yesccc.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

10:00AM-1:00PM

WHITE ELEPHANT & BAG SALE

Stuff a bag full of clothes for $5 at the Simpson United Methodist Church in Amityville, 30 Locust Avenue. New Items & Thrift Shop Treasures for sale. New clothes are not included in the bag sale. Donations are accepted! For more information, please call Mary at 516-991-8098.

10 Healthy Aging Tips For Older Americans Month This May Alzheimer’s Foundation Of America Offers Lifestyle Choices That Promote Healthy Aging & Help Reduce Dementia Risk

As part of Older Americans Month this May, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is offering 10 steps for healthy aging so that older adults can be proactive about their brain health.

“As we honor and celebrate the older adults who are a vital, vibrant part of our communities during National Older Americans Month, we also want to help them to be proactive about their brain health, because the risk of developing dementia increases with age,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s Director of Educational and Social Services. “Empowering older adults with information about positive, brain-healthy lifestyle choices they can make will go a long way to helping them remain active members of our society for years to come.”

AFA encourages individuals to follow these ten steps for healthy aging:

1. Eat Well- Adopt a lowfat diet high on fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, blueberries, and broccoli. Take daily vitamins. Limit intake of red meats, fried and processed foods, salt, and sugar. In general, foods that are “heart healthy” are also “brain healthy.”

2. Stay Active- Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and can also help improve mood and general well-being. Brisk walking benefits brain health; aerobic exercise boosts your heart rate; weight training builds strength and flexibility.

3. Learn New ThingsLearning new things exercises and strengthens your brain. Taking a class, trying a new activity, or engaging in any new cognitive pursuit causes your brain to think

outside of its normal routine and provides cognitive stimulation. Even something as simple as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand stimulates the brain.

4. Get Enough SleepGetting consistent sleep every night is key; at least seven to nine hours is ideal. Having a good sleep environment is also helpful. Make sure you do low-key activities before getting into bed so you are not overstimulated. Avoid caffeinated drinks close to your bedtime. Insomnia can have serious physical effects and negatively affect memory and thinking.

5. Mind Your MedsMedication can affect everyone differently, especially as you age. When getting a new medication or something you have not taken recently, (whether over the counter or prescription), consult with your doctor or local pharmacist.

6. Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol- Smoking can increase the risk of other serious illnesses, while too much alcohol can impair judgment and cause accidents, including falls, broken bones, and car crashes.

7. StayConnected-Prolonged social isolation and loneliness are detrimental to your health, and can increase the risk of a number of different health conditions, including dementia-related illnesses, heart disease, and stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Spending time with loved ones and friends, participating in group activities, and getting involved in local community groups are all ways of connecting with

other people, keeping your brain active, and helping you feel more engaged with the world around you.

8. Know Your Blood Pressure- Blood pressure can affect your cognitive functioning. Visit your physician regularly to check your blood pressure and make sure it is within normal range.

9. See Your DoctorMaintain checkups. Health screenings are key to managing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, all of which can impact brain health. Speak with your physician about any health-related concerns or questions you have.

10. Get a Memory ScreeningMemory impairments are not a normal part of aging; they can be caused by a number of different conditions. Because of this, early detection of memory impairments is essential. Memory screenings are quick, noninvasive screenings that should be part of everyone’s health and wellness routine, even if you’re not currently experiencing memory issues. AFA offers free virtual memory screenings every weekday, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites—visit www.alzfdn.org or call AFA at 866-232-8484 for information about getting a free virtual memory screening. Individuals wishing to learn more about healthy aging and promoting good brain health can contact the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Helpline at 866-232-8484 or visit AFA’s website, www.alzfdn.org.

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Town Clerk LaMarca Announces Special One-Stop Passport Weekend

Looking To Get Away? Make An Appointment Today!

To help residents looking to obtain new passports, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced that his office will offer a special one-stop Passport Weekend on Saturday, June 1st and Sunday, June 2nd from 9am to 3pm at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa.

“Residents looking to apply for a new passport are invited to visit Town Hall during Passport Weekend to receive assistance,” said Town Clerk LaMarca. “We can help you with organizing your documents, obtaining a photo and submitting the documents for approval.”

Requirements for applying for a passport include:

One 2x2 color photograph

with a clear view of the applicant’s face against a plain white or light colored background. Photos will also be available for $10 at both Town Halls North and South during Passport Weekend.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship –Previously issued undamaged U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship.

Proof of Identity –Naturalization Certificate, Valid Driver’s License (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents). This service does NOT

apply to Adult Renewals unless your Passport is expired for 5+ years.

Town Clerk LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa. Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm, and during this special Passport Weekend. For appointments in Oyster Bay, please call (516) 6246324. For appointments in Massapequa, please call (516) 797-7962.

For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit www.travel. state.gov.

Assemblyman Durso, Mayor Adams

And The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office Held A Free Narcan Training Program

New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park) in partnership with Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office recently held a free Narcan Training at Babylon Village Hall. Attendees learned the signs of an opiate overdose, overdose risk factors, recognizing and responding to an overdose,

and the administration of Naloxone (Narcan). Each received a free Narcan kit at the end of the presentation.

“Narcan training programs are an essential part of our effort to combat the increase in fentanyl and opioid overdoses and deaths that are plaguing communities throughout Long Island and New York State,” said Durso. “I want to thank all the residents

for attending this lifesaving training. And a special thank you to Mayor Adams and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office for providing this vital service.”

If you, or someone you know, are struggling with addiction or substance use disorder, please call the New York State 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369).

Saladino Seeks Nominations To Honor Local Veterans

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Oyster Bay Town Board are now accepting nominations in order to honor veterans at the Town’s ‘Salute to America’ Celebration scheduled for Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 7:30 pm at TOBAY Beach. Residents are invited to nominate extraordinary individuals who have made a positive difference in our veteran communities.

“The Town of Oyster Bay’s ‘Salute to America’ Celebration provides the ideal backdrop to recognize veterans and individuals who continue to actively serve in the community and advocate for issues and concerns relative to veterans. The Town is proud to recognize and honor amazing individuals who have helped to shape our communities for the better through their

continuing advocacy and exemplary community service each year,”

Supervisor Saladino said. “I hope residents will consider submitting a nomination of an individual who deserves special recognition for their continued efforts on behalf of the veteran’s community. I look forward to recognizing the efforts of outstanding individuals who have impacted the lives of our veterans in an extraordinary way yet again this year.”

Nominations are being accepted in three different categories of recognition: Veterans Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a veteran), Friend of Veterans Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a nonveteran), and Lifetime Achievement Award (awarded to a veteran or a non-veteran). All entries must include a supporting

narrative describing the nominee’s on-going veterans related activities, and all nominees must be Town residents. All nominations must be postmarked no later than Monday, June 3, 2024. Winners will be recognized as part of a special program during the ‘Salute to America’ Celebration, a patriotic evening of top-flight musical talent and fireworks, which serves as a thank you to all of our veterans and active military for protecting the freedoms we enjoy each and every day as Americans.

To submit a nomination for the Veterans Awards, please visit www. oysterbaytown.com, email kfileccia@oysterbay-ny. gov or call (516) 797-7925 for an application.

NARCAN TRAINING PROGRAM - NYS Assemblyman Michael Durso and community members.

Drive directly supported veterans being cared for at the Northport VA, helping to bring the comfort of home to those living there during their time of need. The Northport VA has a ‘Wish List’ of items their veterans need, and the Town’s Collection Drive helped to ensure that those needs are met. Supervisor Saladino commended our amazing residents for their generosity and thanked them for supporting this incredible initiative, to help show our support of our veterans. This year’s Collection Drive was held in loving

away after a tragic accident.

Imbroto Announces Pickleball Pickup Game Summer Schedule

Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto and the Town Board announced the pickleball pickup game schedule across multiple parks for this summer. With eight sessions scheduled throughout the week, residents of all ages and skill levels are invited to play this growing sport in a casual environment without a formal instructor. Pickleball, a blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, provides a fun and social way to stay active.

“Engaging in recreational activities like pickleball not only promotes physical health but also fosters a sense of community. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity for residents of all ages to come together, have fun, and stay active. This fun sport has gained in popularity throughout our Town and we’re thrilled to see our parks filled with energy and camaraderie as more residents give it a try,” Councilman Imbroto said.

Beginning on Monday, July 1, 2024, Hicksville

Athletic Center will host Pickleball Pickup Session 1 every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:00 AM to 8:15 AM. Meanwhile, Lenox Avenue Park in Bethpage will kick off Pickleball Session 2 on Tuesday, July 2, running every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Another opportunity to play arises with Pickleball Session 3, also starting on July 1, taking place at Lenox Avenue Park every Monday and Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Garrick Williams Park in

Massapequa will open its courts for Pickleball Session 4 on Wednesday, July 3, and will continue every Wednesday and Friday from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Garrick Williams Park will host Pickleball Session 5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, starting on July 2. This schedule extends to Pickleball Session 6, taking place at the same location every Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, starting on July 3. Centre Island Beach in Bayville will

be the venue for Pickleball Session 7, commencing on July 2, with games scheduled every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Finally, Pickleball Session 8 will take place at Centre Island Beach, starting on July 1, with games scheduled every Monday and Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. These sessions offer residents ample opportunities to enjoy the sport of pickleball across various locations the town.

Registration takes

place online at: www. oysterbaytown.com/portal. Residents can register beginning Monday, May 13 at 5 PM and must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s license. The resident fee is $75. NonResidents can register beginning Monday, May 20 at 9 AM, and the fee is $100. Rackets are not provided. Registration is First-Come, First-Served. For more information, please call (516) 797-7945.

memory of Commander Richard DeJesu of Oyster Bay, who recently passed

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Relay For Life Cancer Walk/Events Scheduled For Spring/Summer 2024

More than just a fundraising walk, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life global movement brings together passionate supporters who embody the American Cancer Society’s vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join a Relay community to connect with survivors, caregivers, and others impacted by cancer in your local community. Several Relay For Life events are scheduled for this spring and summer in Hempstead, Smithtown, Plainview-Old Bethpage, and Northport.

While each Relay event embraces the uniqueness of its specific community, all events share the same four signature elements: a celebration of cancer survivors, a celebration of caregivers, a luminaria ceremony to honor and remember loved ones, and the opportunity to fight back against every cancer as we join together for every life.

“We share a passion to save lives, celebrate lives, and work to end cancer as we know it –for everyone,” said Michelle Maugeri, associate director of development, American Cancer Society. “In 2024, more than 2 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the United States. Being there for anyone impacted by cancer is year-round work, and we’re excited to kick-off the Relay season for 2024.”

Relay For Life is communitybased and volunteer-driven. Communities use their creativity to raise cancerfighting dollars to support the American Cancer Society and honor survivors and caregivers as well as remember those we’ve lost to the disease.

Upcoming Relay For Life Events:

Relay For Life of Smithtown West High School– June 1, 2024; relayforlife.org/ SmithtownNY

Relay For Life of PlainviewOld Bethpage – June 1, 2024; relayforlife.org/pobnyobny

Relay For Life of Northport - June 8, 2024; relayforlife. org/NorthportNY

For more information, contact Michelle Maugeri, associate director of development, American

Cancer Society at (631) 9448086 or via email at michelle. maugeri@cancer.org.

About The American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a leading cancerfighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. For more than 100 years, we have been improving the lives of people with cancer

and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. To learn more, visit cancer.org or call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.