The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers homeowners the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, a fantastic opportunity to save money while making your home more eco-friendly. You can claim a tax credit of up to $3,200 for qualifying energy-efficient improvements installed on or after January 1, 2023.
So, what does this mean for you? In simple terms, for every dollar you spend on qualified energy-efficient improvements, you can reduce your tax liability, up to the specified limit. However, keep in mind that these upgrades must be new products and materials that meet specific energy-efficiency standards to qualify.
Exterior doors that meet applicable standards can qualify for the energy tax credit. You can claim 30% of the project cost, up to $250 per door, with a total limit of $500.
Upgrade to energy-efficient windows to not only reduce your energy bills but also claim tax credits. Homeowners can receive 30% of project costs, up to $600, in tax credits.
The energy tax credit allows homeowners to recover 30% of the costs, up to $1,200, for improving home insulation. This credit can come from attic insulation, wall insulation, or exterior insulation that is placed behind the siding of your home.
If you are looking to take advantage of these tax credits, Unified Home Remodeling has Energy Star approved products and installers to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Burgerology Massapequa
- The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce proudly held the exciting Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their member, Burgerology Massapequa! Burgerology specializes in Gourmet Burgers, Sandwiches, House-cut fries, Monstrosity-sized shakes, Craft Beers on Tap, Crazy Cocktails, & Much More! Check them out at 4225 Merrick Road in Massapequa, or contact them at (516) 799-9199 for more information. Congratulations to Georgia & Eddie Galatoulas and family, and the Burgerology team!
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GRAND OPENING RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY - BURGEROLOGY
Dangerous Budget Inn Motel
Town Reaches Legal Settlement To Demolish Structurally Unsafe Motel & Hub For Criminal Activity
In a tremendous victory for public safety and our suburban quality of life, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board today announced the permanent closure and future demolition of the Budget Inn Motel in Massapequa.
The Town previously filed a lawsuit to address longstanding concerns about the property, which was deemed structurally dangerous and a hub for criminal activity. A legal settlement has since been reached to close and demolish all buildings on the property.
“There’s nothing more important to the Town Board and I than protecting your safety and your quality of life, which is why I’m
proud to announce that the Budget Inn Motel will remain closed, and will be demolished,” Supervisor Saladino said. “This eyesore was the location of violent criminal activity and was in a serious state of disrepair.
We took immediate action to rid our community of this dangerous property, and today’s settlement is a tremendous victory for the Town of Oyster Bay and all our residents.”
Under the terms of the settlement, all structures on the property will be demolished by June 30, 2025 and the Town will be reimbursed for the expenses it incurred during the litigation process. Additionally, all certificates of occupancy for the Budget Inn remain revoked, so
the structure may not be occupied. Previous news reports indicate that 15 arrests took place at the Budget Inn in 2023, including for criminal possession of a weapon, promotion of prostitution and assault. Inspections of the motel have led to numerous code violations.
“The closure of the Budget Inn Motel is a major step forward in our efforts to address properties that pose a danger to the public,” Supervisor Saladino added. “The agreed-upon demolition and reimbursement will not only remove an unsafe structure but also ensure town taxpayers aren’t forced to bear the financial burden of this careless property owner.”
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Supporting An Inclusive Playground At East Lake
Striving to make the playground more inclusive for all students at East Lake Elementary School in the Massapequa School District, the debut of a say and play board was the culmination of months of planning by administrators, faculty and staff.
The large board, adjacent to the playground, was customized for the needs of East Lake students. Several students in the Eagle program, which is housed at the school, are nonverbal and require the use of assistive communication devices. As those devices can be hard to carry
around while enjoying the playground, the say and play board has words and images that students can point to.
Teachers designed the board using CoughDrop, a language learning app, and included the specific pieces of equipment available at East Lake’s playground. There are also images for common actions, feelings and questions, as well as letters and numbers. The board was installed by the custodial staff.
Fifth graders in the Kids Care buddies program also learned how to use the board to support their friends. The children get
together afterschool for different activities, and the addition of the say and play board now makes the playground a new option for the buddy meet-ups.
To better understand the communication needs of their peers, the fifth grade buddies participated in a workshop in which they learned how some children use assistive devices. They then had conversations with each other using devices to experience it for themselves. The goal is for them to serve as role models for the rest of the school to foster a greater appreciation for all ways that children communicate.
“We hope that the addition of the say and play board builds awareness within our school
community,” said speech language pathologist Elizabeth Schoepflin. “We want to have out students
with disabilities included in the general education setting as much as possible.”
“It gives everyone a voice
and way to communicate,” added fellow speech language pathologist Kim Watson.
SUPPORTING AN INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND AT EAST LAKE - The addition of a say and play board at East Lake Elementary School supports the communication needs of all students at the playground. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Free Child ID Card Program
New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso, in partnership with Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, and the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, is holding a FREE Operation Safe Child ID Card Program on Saturday,
July 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Marjorie Post Pool in Massapequa. The program is free and open to Nassau County residents only. The ID cards will be produced on site and available in minutes. No appointment is necessary. When a child goes missing, every moment is precious. Law enforcement
needs accurate information and quickly. The Nassau County DA’s Operation Safe Child program provides parents with an identification card for their children containing pertinent physical information to give law enforcement officials a head start on a missing child. Information on each card
includes the child’s name, birthdate, age, gender, hair and eye color, height and weight, fingerprints, and a high-resolution digital photo.
For more information on this program, please contact Assemblyman Durso’s district office at (516) 541-4598. No appointment necessary.
Hundreds Of Children Attend Pool Safety Seminar
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with officials from Catholic Health to host a Pool and Summer Safety Seminar at Marjorie Post Community Park. In recent
years, fatal drownings for children under the age of 15 has increased by 12 percent, with drowning remaining the leading cause of death among children ages 1 to 4 years old. Additionally, children under the age of 5 make up nearly 80 percent of all nonfatal drowning injuries each year.
“We all know that
summer is time for fun in the sun and cooling off in the pool. However, that fun comes with a great deal of responsibility. That’s why we hosted this Summer Safety Day in the Town of Oyster Bay,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We thank St. Joseph Hospital and Catholic Health for partnering with us to host this important
program and bringing pool safety awareness to hundreds of youngsters.”
Seminar attendees learned about healthy swimming, basic first aid, hypothermia, cramping, drowning prevention, basic CPR (not certification), recreational water wellness and EMS ambulance education.
Homeowners Cleanup & Hazardous Material Days for Summer 2024 Free Paper Shredding
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Steve Labriola announce the Town’s S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) and Homeowners Cleanup Days for summer 2024. During these programs, residents can drop off materials at the Old Bethpage Solid Waste Disposal Complex, located at 101 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road in Old Bethpage.
S.T.O.P. program
- Saturday, August 10th 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
Services Available During Homeowners Cleanup
oil, oven cleaner or paint thinner could contaminate your water supply,” said Supervisor 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 Days – Saturday, July
27th & August 24th from 8:30am – 4pm: collects non-hazardous waste only, including: air conditioners; all e-waste; campers; boats and boat trailers (proof of ownership requiredoil, gas, other fluids and batteries removed); clean, broken concrete; large metal items; propane tanks and propane torches; tires; and yard waste.
“Many of our residents take the opportunity to clean out their yards in the summer months and may have large amounts of non-hazardous debris to dispose,” said Councilman Labriola. “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 27th & August 24th 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) 6775848.
Summer ‘Movies By Moonlight’ In Town Of Oyster Bay Parks
Character Meet-And-Greets, Inflatables, And Games Offered Prior To Screenings
Supervisor Joseph Saladino and members of the Town Board announce that free ‘Movies by Moonlight’ will be offered in local parks on Thursday evenings this summer, beginning July 11th and concluding on August 8th. Residents are welcome to bring blankets and chairs when attending these family-friendly movies.
“Residents and families looking for a fun night need look no further than their backyards this summer as the Town is ready with a summer to remember,” said Supervisor Saladino. “We’re
thrilled to once again show family-friendly films at our parks, along with character meet and greets, inflatables, games, and more.”
Seating and pre-movie activities will begin at 6:00 p.m. including character meet and greets at select movies, inflatables and games. All movies begin at sundown and are subject to change. They will be held weather permitting.
For additional information, please call (516) 797-7925 or visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown. com.
Programming is
made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Steel Equities, Gold Coast Studios, Extreme Auto Body, Action Auto
Wreckers, Complete Basement Systems, Webster Bank, Northwell Health’s Plainview & Syosset Hospitals, The Gucciardo Law Firm, Long
Island Speech, Soccer Stars, Zorn’s of Bethpage, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Royal Events Princess Parties, News12 Long Island, KJOY 98.3, WHLI 104.7 FM,
WALK 97.5, THE SHARK 94.3, THE WOLF 103.1, and Friends of the Community Service Department.
July 27th And 28th
To increase convenience for residents, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca will host a special Marriage License Weekend on Saturday, July 27th, and Sunday, July 28th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Oyster Bay Town Halls North and South. During this weekend event, residents will have the opportunity to obtain their New York State marriage licenses. Appointments are required.
“I am delighted to offer this special Marriage License Weekend for our residents,” said Town Clerk Richard LaMarca.
“We understand that life’s busy schedules can make it challenging to obtain a marriage license during regular business hours. This weekend event
is designed to provide greater flexibility and convenience for couples preparing for their big day.”
The Marriage License Weekend will be held on Saturday, July 27th, and Sunday, July 28th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Appointments are available at Town Hall North (54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, NY) and Town Hall South (977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa,
Town Clerk LaMarca Announces Special Marriage License Weekend
NY). To ensure efficient service and minimal wait times, appointments are mandatory. To make an appointment in Oyster Bay, please call 516-624-6335. To make an appointment in Massapequa, please call 516-797-7966.
The fee for a marriage license is $40. Once the license is issued, the ceremony may be performed anywhere in the state. A marriage license is good for sixty (60) days, beginning twentyfour hours (24) after the license is issued. For more information about the required documents and eligibility criteria for obtaining a New York State marriage license, please visit oysterbaytown. com or contact the Town Clerk’s office at 516-6246333.
JULY HAPPENINGS
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.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 17
4:00PM-9:00PM WOW: WEDNESDAYS ON WELLWOOD
The Lindenhurst Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Lindenhurst presents WOW: Wednesdays on Wellwood! A fun, free block party for the whole family. Enjoy live music, local vendors and outdoor dining. Rain date: July 24. There will be a second event on August 14 from 4:00PM-9:00PM, with a rain date of August 21.Visit www. lindenhurstchamber.org for more information.
THURSDAY, JULY 18
11:00AM and 1:00PM SHED THE MEDS & NARCAN TRAINING EVENT
Narcan Training starts promptly at 11:00 a.m. inside the Fire Department. Shed The Meds runs 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso, in partnership with Suffolk County Legislators Kevin McCaffrey and Steve Flotteron, Babylon Town Councilman Terence McSweeney and the West Babylon Fire Department are sponsoring the drive thru Shed The Meds and free Narcan Training event at the West Babylon Fire Department at 126 Arnold Avenue in West Babylon. Registration is required. Call Assemblyman Durso’s office at 516-541-4598 to reserve your seat.
THURSDAY, JULY 18
thru SUNDAY, JULY 21
Check Website For Times GREAT SOUTH BAY MUSIC FESTIVAL Shorefront Park, Patchogue
Come enjoy this music, art and cultural event, featuring over 55 performers
on 4 stages, the Great South Bay’s Artisan Market, a diverse food court, multiple beer and wine gardens and so much more. Children ages 10 and under can attend the event for free. For more information, visit greatsouthbaymusicfestival.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 20
at Brookside Park, W. Sayville 2:00PM
Saturday, July 27 at South Shore Mall, Bay Shore 6:00PM
FREE SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK
Islip Arts Council and Studio Theater of Long Island Shakespeare Troupe present "A Comedy of Errors" by William Shakespeare. This limited engagement will be performed FREE. For more information, please call 631-888-3525, or visit isliparts.org/
SATURDAY, JULY 20
10:00AM–3:00PM
THRIFT SHOP / YARD SALE
St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, 305 Carll’s Path, in Deer Park is hosting a Thrift Shop / Yard Sale. (If inclement weather, this event will be cancelled) Thrift Shop Special Event Of “Pack A Bag” ($5.00). New and gently used women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and shoes as well as home goods. Something for everyone!
For more information, please call 631-242-7530 .
SUNDAY, JULY 21
10:00AM - 3:00PM
ANTIQUE & CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Sagtikos Manor, 677 West Montauk Hwy, West Bay Shore. Spend the day at Sagtikos Manor for a Classic Car Show. View over a hundred antique
cars and listen to music on the great lawn. Food available for purchase. Take a manor house tour while you are there (extra admission). Car Show admission $5 pp, children under 5 free. Show cars welcome. $15 registration fee. For more info.: info@sagtikosmanor.org or call dsubbiondo@aol.com. www. sagtikosmanor.org.
SATURDAY, JULY 27
10:00AM-2:00PM
FREE CHILD ID CARD PROGRAM Nassau County Residents Only New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso, in partnership with Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, and the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, is holding a FREE Operation Safe Child ID Card Program at Marjorie Post Pool in Massapequa. The program is free and open to Nassau County residents only. The ID cards will be produced on site and available in minutes. No appointment is necessary. For more information, please contact Assemblyman Durso’s district office at 516-541-4598.
SUNDAY, JULY 28
3:30 PM
AFTERNOON AT THE RACES
Brumidi Lodge, 2075 Deer Park Avenue in Deer Park is hosting an Afternoon At The Races. Adults $15, Ages 4 to 12 $10, Ages 3 and under are Free. Buffet Style Dinner, Beverage, Dessert and Coffee. Cash Bar. Raffles. For more information, please call Marian at 631- 332-9775 or Anita at 631-422-6914 to reserve your spot!
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) recently awarded Ten $1000 scholarships to ten graduating students from across Long Island. Also, for the second year in a row a Pat DeRosa Memorial Scholarship was awarded in memory of LIMEHOF inductee Pat DeRosa.
Cooper Arbisi (Massapequa, NY, Massapequa High School)
Stephen Buff (Center Moriches, NY, Center Moriches High School, Flute)
Cody Chelune (Levittown, NY, Island Trees High School, Vocal, Tenor)
Jocelyn Chiu (Albertson, NY, Herricks High School, Instrument: Harp)
Giuliana Gallone (Kings Park, NY, Kings Park High School, Vocal/Bass Clarinet, Guitar & Piano)
Dara Gordon (Dix Hills, NY, Commack High School Vocal/Musical Theater)
Emily Helbock (Sayville, NY, Sayville High School, Instrument: French Horn/Piano)
Ryan Loughlin (Farmingdale, NY, Farmingdale High School, Vocal, Bass/Baritone, Cello/Piano)
Julian Zuzzolo (Sea Cliff, NY, North Shore High School, Percussion)
Pat DeRosa Scholarship Winner
Peter Hoss (Greenlawn, NY, Harborfields High School, Tenor Saxophone)
“We are thrilled to award these scholarships to such talented and dedicated young musicians,” said Tom Needham, LIMEHOF’s Educational Programs Director.
“Supporting the next generation of music students as they embark on their college journeys is at the heart of our mission. These scholarships not only recognize their hard work and passion but also reinforce our commitment to nurturing musical talent and education within our community. We can’t wait to see what these young people will accomplish in their musical careers.”
This is the first year that LIMEHOF has expanded its scholarships to include not only music but also the performing arts. This also marks the largest number of scholarships awarded in a single year since the program began.
TO PLACE YOUR
LIMEHOF has awarded tens of thousands of scholarships to Long Island high school students since its inception. The students submit applications that are judged by LIMHOF’s education committee, chaired by board member Tom Needham. This year had a record number of applications received. Students from schools in Queens and Brooklyn are eligible to apply in addition to those from Nassau and Suffolk Counties. For more information about LIMEHOF’s scholarships and educational programs visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/scholarshipsgrants/
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