November 26, 2025 Massapequa Park by Long Island Media Group

S uth Bay's Neighbor

ALTRUISTIC AMES STUDENTS FIGHT

HUNGER WITH FOOD DRIVE

The National Junior Honor Society at the Massapequa High School Ames Campus organized a nonperishable food drive for Thanksgiving. The generosity of the ninth graders will ensure that local families have a bountiful Thanksgiving this year. The food drive resulted in the collection of hundreds of nonperishable items. The drive ran from Oct. 9 to Nov. 14 and there was a steady stream of donations over the five weeks. Photo courtesy of the Massapequa School District

The new Good Samaritan University Hospital is coming. And our South Shore community is about to get a whole lot better.

Santa’s Mailboxes From North Pole Have Arrived In Town Offices

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board announce that children can send their ‘holiday wish list’ directly to Old St. Nick at the North Pole through a special network of Santa’s Mailboxes that have arrived in Town facilities from the North Pole. Mailboxes will accept letters through Monday, December 15th.

The Town of Oyster Bay will forward letters to Santa at the North Pole. Letters received by Monday, December 15th with a legible name and return address will be answered by Santa before the holiday. No postage is necessary.

Colorful red mailboxes will be accessible during regular business hours (9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.) at the

following locations:

• Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay

• Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa

• Ice Skating Center, 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage For more information about Santa’s Mailboxes, call (516) 624-6380 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. That’s why we’re proud to give back to those establishments across Long Island and in The Rockaways through our energy efficiency and economic development programs. You too can help support them by shopping for gifts in your community. It’s how we keep our local economy strong and how we stick together on our island.

Learn more about how we’re supporting local businesses at psegliny.com/businessfirst.

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks Open For Season November 28th

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Andrew Monteleone announce that the Town’s outdoor ice skating rinks at Marjorie R. Post and SyossetWoodbury Community Parks will officially open for the season on Friday, November 28th and remain open through Sunday, March 1st.

“Ice skating is a fun activity for families and residents of all ages to enjoy, especially during the holiday season. The Town’s outdoor ice

rinks provide the perfect setting to take in the wonderful winter atmosphere,” said Councilman Monteleone.

Public Skating Sessions are available at both outdoor rinks on Friday, November 28th from 1pm3pm, 4pm-6pm and 7pm-9pm, Saturday, November 29th from 1pm-3pm, 4pm-6pm, and 7pm9pm, and Sunday, November 30th from 1pm-3pm and 4pm-6pm.

For residents wishing to take

advantage of ice skating but do not wish to be outdoors, the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center is open year-round and is located at 1001 Stewart Ave. in Bethpage. Indoor skating is open to the public seven days a week, with special extended hours on most holidays and school breaks.

For information on schedules, fees and rink programs at all Town rinks, visit the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown.com/ice.

Collection Drive To Support Homeless Veterans

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Richard LaMarca, in partnership with VFW Post #6394 in Syosset, encourage residents to support local veterans by donating to a Collection Drive. Throughout the month of November, residents are invited to donate toiletries that will be distributed through the notfor-profit organization Help for Homeless Long Island Veterans.

“From hosting veteran appreciation events to recognizing their service with Hometown Hero Banners in our parks, the Town

of Oyster Bay is committed to honoring veterans for their service to our nation,” Supervisor Saladino said. “Please join this mission to help bring the comforts of home to veterans by making a donation to our collection drive.”

Most needed items include toiletries: toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, Chapstick, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, cream, razors, shaving cream, combs, brushes, sunscreen, Q-Tip’s, tweezers and nail clippers.

“When I learned that Help for Homeless Long Island Veterans had a ‘Wish List’ of items their veterans desperately need, I knew residents would generously spring into action to help ensure these needs are met,” said Clerk LaMarca. “I thank the residents of our wonderful Town in advance for their generosity and support of our veterans.”

Collection Bins will be available on weekdays from 9:00am to 4:45pm at Town Hall North (54 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay) and Town Hall South (977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa). For more information, please call (516) 624-6380 or email ealter@ oysterbay-ny.gov.

Largest Cruise Thru Toys For Tots Collection Drive Coming Soon

Donations to Help Families & Those Less Fortunate

Oyster Bay Town

Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom Hand announced that the Town’s massive ‘Cruise-Thru’ Toys for Tots Collection Drive will take place at John Burns Park in Massapequa on Saturday, December 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In partnership with the United States Marine Corps and Optimum, the Town is collecting toys to help families and those less fortunate throughout the community during the upcoming holiday season. In addition to the ‘Cruise-Thru’, collection boxes are located at Town facilities through

December 13th

Supervisor Saladino said, “The Toys for Tots Drive has long been a huge success under the leadership of the U.S. Marine Corps, especially here in the Town of Oyster Bay, as just last year we collected more than 40,000 toys for Long Island children. I encourage all of our residents who can donate to this amazing cause, as the Toys for Tots Drive helps ensure that disadvantaged children

within our community do not have to go through the holiday season without something to bring them happiness.”

The ‘Cruise Thru Holiday Toy Drive’ will offer residents an excellent opportunity to contribute directly to the cause and help bring a smile to a child’s face this holiday season. Additionally, the event will feature a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as a holiday drop box where children can drop

off their letters to Santa. Letters dropped off with a legible name and return address will be answered by Santa before the holiday.

“Toys for Tots sends a message of hope to less fortunate children who otherwise wouldn’t be receiving presents this holiday season. I urge residents, who can, to donate new unwrapped toys to any of our dropoff locations,” said Councilman Tom Hand.

“By donating, you can help ease the financial burden of our families in need this holiday season.”

Toys for Tots Collection Boxes are located at the following locations:

• Oyster Bay Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay;

• Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa;

• Ice Skating Center at

Bethpage Community Park, 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage.

The Cruise Thru Toy Drive is made possible through the following sponsors: Whitey’s Tire Service of Brooklyn, Bola, Long Island Press, Nassau Coliseum, Adventureland, News 12, MSG Networks, Washville, WKJOY 98.3, WHLI 1100AM, 103. The Wolf, 94.3 The Shark, and Embassy Diner.

For more information, please call (516) 7974121 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com.

Tell Us About It!

Let us know about your honors, awards, promotions and other announcements. They are always welcome. Photos can be emailed as well. Send them to editorial@ longislandmediagroup.com.

WEDNESDAY

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• Handmade Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

FIRST COURSE (Choose one)

• Penne Alla Vodka • Linquine Fruitti di Mare

• Baked Ziti • Lasagna (Meat or Cheese)

• Stuffed Shells • Baked Manicotti

SALAD (Choose two)

• Garden or Caesar

• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Seasonal Berries

MAIN COURSE (Choose one)

• USDA Prime Stuffed Flank Steak Roast (Raw)

• Boar’s Head Sweet Sliced Ham (Brown Sugar Glaze)

• Stuffed Flounder Filet

VEGETABLE (Choose two)

• String Bean Casserole • Sautéed Broccoli

• Candied Sweet Potatoes

• String Bean Almondine

• Roasted Potato Wedges • Eggplant Rollatine or Parmigiana

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Apple Pie or Grain Pie

• Fresh Cut Fruit Bowl

• All Natural, Hormone Free Center-Cut Stuffed Boneless Pork Roast (Raw)

NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS

FRIDAY, NOV. 28th

7:00PM-8:00PM

45th ANNUAL

JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW at the Freeport Memorial Library, 144 W. Merrick Rd. Free Event. Sponsored by the Long Island Arts Council. This show consists of color and black-and-white photographs taken by professional and nonprofessional photographers from the tristate area. For more information, please call 516379-3274

FRIDAY, NOV. 28th

SATURDAY, NOV. 29th

SUNDAY, NOV. 30th

11:00AM-3:00PM

HOLIDAY SHOPPING WEEKEND AT SAGTIKOS & BASKET RAFFLES

For all your holiday gifts, home decor, jewelry, scarves & accessories, books, holiday decorations and more items. Enter the Gift Basket Rafﬂe. Over 30 baskets to choose from. Free parking and entrance in the rear. sagtikosmanor.org, 631.854.0939, 677 West Montauk Hwy, West Bay Shore.

SATURDAY, NOV. 29th

10:00AM-4:00PM

SNOWFLAKE SALE AND WINTER OPEN HOUSE

The Bay Shore Historical Society annual Snowﬂake Sale and Winter Open House. Stop by their Small Business Saturday sale at 22 Maple Ave. in Bay Shore. Enjoy holiday deals and explore their historic Bay Shore exhibits.There will be a visit from Victorian Santa beginning at 11:00am; stop by with your camera for a free family photo opportunity. For more information, please call 631-665-1700, email: bayshohissoc@optonline.net

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 information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

11:00AM-3:00PM PHOTOS WITH SANTA AT SAGTIKOS MANOR

Have your photo taken with Santa in the iconic musicroom at Sagtikos Manor. Photos sent to your email, $5 includes sitting and a small gift. sagtikosmanor.org, 631.854.0939, 677 West Montauk Hwy, West Bay Shore.

SUNDAY, NOV. 30th

8:30AM-4:00PM

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Join us for the Ss. Cyril & Methodius Christmas Craft Fair in the church hall. 125 Half Hollow Road in Deer Park. Shop from a variety of vendors. Enjoy basket rafﬂes, 50/50s, and festive treats while supporting local artisans. For more information, please call Mike Gonzalez at 917-705-5355

9:00AM-11:00AM

BREAKFAST W/SANTA Brumidi Lodge: Sons & Daughters of Italy Includes: Scrambled Eggs, Pancakes, Sausages Mufﬁns, Coffee, Tea & Juice. Ages 3 & under FREE, 4-12 $12, 13+ $18 Bring your own camera for photos with SANTA Reservations & Info: Karen 631-9433622. 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park, www.sonsoﬁtalyli.com

UPCOMING DECEMBER HAPPENINGS

SATURDAY, DEC. 6th

9:00AM

HOT CHOCOLATE 5K RUN/WALK

This year marks 20 years of Seaford community spirit! Everyone’s welcome. A great morning of fun, ﬁtness, and neighbors coming together. Hosted by the Seaford Wellness Council, a 501(c) (3) non-proﬁt (Tax ID #11-3612034) dedicated to promoting wellness and

community pride throughout Seaford. Location: Seaford High School, 1575 Seamans Neck Road in Seaford. For more information, please contact Michael DiSilvio, 516-384-8536

SATURDAY, DEC. 6th

5:30PM-7:30PM TREE LIGHTING AT THE SEAFORD FIREHOUSE

The Seaford Historical Society with host, at the museum, 3890 Waverly Avenue in Seaford, in conjunction with the Tree lighting at the Seaford Firehouse, an open house. Entertainment and warm apple cider served. For information please contact Judy Bongiovi 516-783-8629

6:00PM

MASSAPEQUA CHRISTMAS TREE AND MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY at Klestinec Park on Broadway in Massapequa. Rain Date: Sunday, December 7th. This is a wonderful community event for the family. For more information, please call 516-541-1443

7:00PM

FREE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The Choir of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church of East Meadow presents its Annual Christmas Concert, “An Evening of Lessons and Carols”, featuring choral music of the Orthodox Church and traditional carols from both East and West. It will be also livestreamed on https://www.facebook. com/htocem. Refreshments follow the concert. Admission and refreshments are free of charge. Church is located at 369 Green Avenue in East Meadow. For more information, please call 516-4833649, email htocem@gmail.com, or visit Facebook or www.htocem.org.

Lights Of Hope For The Holidays –Remembrance Ceremony

To Honor Loved Ones Lost To An Overdose

YES Community Counseling Center (YESCCC) is hosting Hope for the Holidays Remembrance Ceremony to honor loved ones lost to substance misuse.

This ceremony will take place on Monday, December 8th at 7:00 PM at YESCCC’s Levittown location at 152 Center Lane.

The holidays can be especially difficult when grieving the loss of a loved one. Whether your loss was recent or many years ago, it can be healing to feel supported by others who understand.

This ceremony is as a way to provide comfort, peace, and hope to those navigating this type of loss during the holiday season.

Family members are invited to bring a small framed photo of their loved one for a candle lighting ceremony. Let’s come together to honor their lives.

For registration visit https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/LightsOfHope2025 or use the QR code.

For more information, contact Kathleen Coletta, LCSW (516) 799-3203 x127 or email at kcoletta@yesccc. org

YES Community Counseling Center is a community based agency providing counseling and prevention services throughout Nassau County. Please visit our website yesccc.org

Massapequa Challenger Sports Showcased At School Boards Convention

A team of educators from the Massapequa School District shared their highly successful Challenger sports program during the New York State School Boards Association annual convention and education expo in New York City on Oct. 24. Administrators and teachers discussed the inclusive athletics program that provides students the chance to experience belonging, teamwork and pride regardless of ability.

Superintendent Dr. William Brennan and Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Dr. Jordan McCaw kicked off the presentation with great excitement, expressing how inspiring it is to see the entire school community rally around students through the Challenger program. They spoke about how the energy, joy and sense of connection at each event reflect the collective heart and dedication of Massapequa’s students, staff and families.

Massapequa’s Challenger program began 15 years ago as one basketball team and has grown to include cheerleading, soccer and track and field. Presenters of “Igniting Inclusion: The Challenger Journey” were Berner Middle School Supervisor of Special Education Ken Petersen and Challenger

coaches Sal Calderone, Lauren Dean, Megan Porter and Kathleen Wegener, who shared the program’s evolution and the positive impact it has had on students.

A special video message from Berner Physical Education Chairperson and Athletics Coordinator Ed Hoffman underscored how collaboration among teachers, coaches and families has been central to the program’s success.

The Challenger program provides students with special needs the chance to join a sports team, and participants compete against athletes from neighboring districts. The program is open to grades 6-12, including ungraded and above 12th grade students.

“Families report that their children are more confident, independent and socially engaged, and those gains extend far beyond athletics,”

Mr. Petersen said. “Some of the most powerful moments come from stories like a student making multiple threepoint baskets, crowds chanting student names or a sibling or peer volunteering as a buddy. Each moment reinforces that inclusion strengthens the entire community.”

The presentation included recommendations on how to start a

successful Challenger sports program, and covered topics such as game officiating, practices, safety, supervision and budget. It also highlighted opportunities for student leadership as general education students serve as buddies for the athletes.

“It was an honor to attend and present at this year’s New York State School Boards Association convention, where we had the opportunity to showcase the incredible talents of our students and celebrate the dedication of our faculty and staff,” Board of Education President Kerry Wachter said. “It’s truly inspiring to see how our Massapequa community continues to come together to support, uplift and celebrate one another.”

Massapequa’s presenters highlighted how the Challenger program thrives because of the support of the community, with a large turnout of students, staff and parents at games. The effort to celebrate different abilities has been highly successful because its events brings so many people together from all corners of the district.

“When you come to Massapequa for a

Continued On 18

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TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you

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A sales representative will be happy to assist you

Massapequa Challenger Sports

Continued From

Challenger

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