Holiday Season 2024!

🔥 Good day, Nassau County Readers! 🔥

Welcome to today’s newsletter, where we bring you the latest updates, news bites, and community happenings you won’t want to miss.

— 516 Update Team

Today in The 516 Update:

• Lead Lurking in Home Water Pipes 🚰

• Hospital Says Goodbye to Plastic 🌱

• Winter Heat Bill Help Available 🏠

Lead Pipe Alert: Rockville Centre's Push for Safer Water

Rockville Centre takes action on aging water lines to protect residents from lead exposure, following EPA guidelines

Anthony Iannone from the Rockville Centre Water Department says they're working hard to keep everyone safe. The village is making a list of all water lines installed before 1988 (when lead pipes were banned) to send to New York State health officials.

If you live in Rockville Centre, you might have gotten a letter about your water lines. The village only sent notices to homes that have lead pipes, galvanized pipes that might have been connected to lead, or pipes they're not sure about. If you didn't get a letter, your pipes are probably fine.

Want to check your pipes yourself? Here's how: Take a screwdriver and gently scratch the pipe's surface. If it's a dull silver-gray color, it's probably galvanized steel. You can also use a magnet - it will stick to galvanized steel but not to lead. If your pipe is plastic, you're good to go.

The health risks from lead are serious. The CDC warns that lead can hurt kids' brains and slow down their growth. For grown-ups, it can cause all sorts of problems, from kidney trouble to heart disease.

But don't panic - Iannone says the water supply itself is safe. "Lead is not a concern in the water supplied to property-owned water service lines," he explains. The village treats the water to stop lead from getting into it and checks regularly to make sure everything's working right.

Need help? You can send photos of your pipes to the water department, fill out an online form, or ask for someone to come check your pipes. Just call (516) 678-9301 or email [email protected].

Quick News Bites

Small Town Love: Lynbrook Shows Up for Local Shops 🏪

Town officials Laura Ryder and Kate Murray stopped by Lynbrook Bagels and other small businesses to show their support on Small Business Saturday. These shops add character to the area while creating jobs and supporting local families. "Together, we can build a connected village where small businesses thrive," shared Lynbrook Bagels on Instagram.

Shop Small Movement Makes Big Impact 💰

This year's Small Business Saturday on November 30 packed a punch, with U.S. shoppers spending $17.8 billion in 2022. Started by American Express in 2010, the event helps local shops compete with big chains during the holiday rush. Small businesses now make up 44% of U.S. economic activity and create two-thirds of new jobs.

Planning for Success: Small Business Focus 📋

Local leaders are putting their heads together to strengthen small business communities. From bagel shops to boutiques, these businesses are getting attention from town officials who want to protect and grow the local economy. The Smart Growth Summit aims to create better plans for supporting these neighborhood gems.

Santa Makes Helicopter Landing in East Hampton! 🚁

The big guy ditched his sleigh for something more modern at East Hampton's Santafest. Around 4,000 people showed up for free holiday fun, including a parade, photos with Santa, and a gingerbread house contest. The day wrapped up with a tree and menorah lighting at Herrick Park.

Holiday Boats Light Up Freeport 🚤

Freeport's Holiday Boat Parade returns this Saturday with 30 decorated vessels cruising the Nautical Mile. The fun starts at 6 PM with tree lightings, followed by the boat parade at 7 PM. Free hot chocolate and coffee will keep spectators warm as they watch from Waterfront Park or local restaurants.

Winter Wonderland Event Heats Up - Literally! 🎄

Wantagh Museum's holiday celebration brought carolers, a petting zoo, and photos with Santa and the Grinch. The first 500 families got swag bags while shopping and snacking. An unexpected small fire cut the evening short before the tree lighting, but everyone stayed safe.

Christmas House Brings North Pole Magic Indoors ⭐

Step into holiday heaven at Christmas House Long Island, a 45-minute walkthrough experience. Snap pics in themed rooms like Christmas Carnival and Polar Bar. Open daily with varying hours at Broadway Commons. Kids under 3 get in free.

Holiday Concert Set to Ring in the Season 🎵

Mark your calendars for December 22! Symphonic Pops of Long Island is putting on a family-friendly holiday concert at Brookside School in North Merrick. Get ready to sing along to your favorite seasonal tunes at this 2 PM show.

Giant Santa Takes Over Long Island Lawn 🎅

This isn't your typical yard decoration. The giant Santa needs eight cables and 16-inch stakes to keep it grounded. They only put it up for a few hours when the weather's good, making each appearance a special treat for the neighborhood.

The neighbors on Florgate Road are loving it. Some joke about Santa floating away, but everyone's happy to have such a fun display in their area. "As long as no kids are attached to it, it's fine!" one neighbor said with a laugh.

The Stergiopoulos family and their next-door neighbors are known for going all out with their Christmas decorations, much like the Griswolds from "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". Local resident Jonathan Proscia jokes they don't need the Macy's parade anymore - they've got their own show right on their lawn.

Community Spirit Warms Up at Seaford's Hot Chocolate 5K 🏃

Get ready for a sweet winter tradition as the Seaford Wellness Council gets set for its 19th annual Hot Chocolate 5K Run/Walk. The event takes place on December 7, 2024, at Seaford High School, bringing together up to 1,000 people from the local area.

What makes this run special? Well, besides the yummy hot chocolate and bagels waiting at the finish line, it's all about bringing people together. President Michael Di Silvio says it's become one of the best community runs on Long Island since starting back up in 2004.

The money from the event helps make Seaford better in lots of ways. They've built things like a nice gazebo at the train station and made parks prettier. They also help kids and seniors with different programs throughout the year.

The council needs new members to keep the good work going, as some long-time members plan to step down soon. But for now, everyone's excited about this year's run - it's more than just exercise, it's about friends and neighbors coming together to do something good for their town.

Hospital Says Goodbye to Plastic Bottles 🌿

A bold move to ditch 35,000 weekly plastic bottles leads to big savings and a greener future

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital made a big change last month - they got rid of all their single-use plastic water bottles. It's part of their new program called Operation Hydration, which is already making waves in how the hospital thinks about drinks and waste.

Joe Dobias, who runs food and nutrition at Northwell Health, shared some eye-opening numbers. The hospital used to go through about 35,000 plastic bottles every week. That's not just bad for the planet - it was costing them around $250,000 each year.

Instead of plastic bottles, they've put in over 50 water stations throughout the building. Every staff member got their own reusable water bottle and coffee mug. And here's a nice touch - if you bring your mug to the cafeteria, you get free coffee. The switch is expected to save the hospital $150,000 a year.

This isn't just about one hospital's budget - it's about tackling a much bigger problem. In the US alone, we create more than 42 million metric tons of plastic waste yearly, and only 9% gets recycled. Once plastic ends up in the environment, it sticks around for up to 1,000 years, causing all sorts of problems for sea life and our ecosystems.

The change hasn't always been easy. Staff members are still getting used to their new routine without plastic bottles. But the hospital's been smart about it - they've held open discussions and presentations to help everyone understand why this matters. They even had water quality tests done to show that tap water is just as good as bottled water, and the new water stations have filters for extra safety.

What's happening at Valley Stream is just the start. Other hospitals in the Northwell Health system are looking to follow their lead. It shows how one change can start something bigger - helping the environment while saving money along the way.

Bite-sized News

Roslyn Star Shoots for Glory 🏀

Jake Kenyon is lighting up the scoreboard for Roslyn High, averaging 22 points per game. The senior guard has led his team to a hot 4-1 start, including a win over state champ Elmont. With young teammates looking up to him, Kenyon aims to bring home Roslyn's first county title since 2009.

Historic Run for Manhasset Athletes 🏃

Manhasset boys cross country made school history by winning their first-ever state championship. The team crushed the competition at the Class B championships in Queensbury, beating second place by 49 points. The town celebrated with a parade featuring police, fire trucks, and even helicopter flyovers.

Level Up Your Game: Chess & Sports Programs for All Ages 🎮

Level Up Your Chess Game

• Date: December 18, 2024

• Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

• Location: Gold Coast Arts Center, Great Neck

• Details: Intermediate and advanced chess players can refine their skills with in-person instruction from chess expert Jack Niculescu, ranked in the top 3% of US chess players. This interactive class focuses on strategies to enhance gameplay.

Knights, Kings, Queens – Beginner Chess

• Date: December 18, 2024

• Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

• Location: Gold Coast Arts Center, Great Neck

• Details: A beginner-friendly chess course where participants learn the fundamentals of the game. Taught in-person by chess expert Jack Niculescu, this class introduces chess basics in an engaging and interactive format.

Super Soccer Stars Parent + Me Programs

• Date: December 21, 2024 (and 8 more dates)

• Time: 9:15 AM – 11:00 AM

• Location: Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills

• Details: A fun parent-child program where young children develop pre-soccer skills such as balancing, running, kicking, and playing in a supportive and active environment. Complimentary trial class available.

Badminton with Pioneer Sports

• Date: December 22, 2024 (and 6 more dates)

• Time: 10:15 AM – 12:00 PM

• Location: Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills

• Details: An introductory badminton class for kids (Grades 3–5) that teaches racket handling, serving, and rallying basics. All equipment is provided for a fun and engaging experience.

Indoor Soccer Clinic with Pioneer Sports

• Date: December 22, 2024 (and 6 more dates)

• Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

• Location: Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills

• Details: A soccer clinic focused on foundational skills such as dribbling, passing, and scoring. Designed for young soccer enthusiasts to build confidence and enjoy the game in an indoor setting.

Live Music Scene Hits New Heights 🎵

The future of concerts and shows is looking brighter than ever, with amazing new tech and fresh ways to enjoy live performances taking center stage.

Live Music & Entertainment 

Live Music with Memory Lane

• Date: Friday, December 20, 2024

• Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

• Location: Spaghettini, 106 Mineola Boulevard, Mineola, NY 11501

• Enjoy an evening of live music and great food with Memory Lane, bringing nostalgic tunes to life.

80s vs. 90s Night feat. Decadia & DJ Savage

• Date: Friday, December 20, 2024

• Time: 7:00 PM

• Location: Mulcahy's Pub & Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793

• Relive the iconic music of the '80s and '90s with live performances by Decadia and DJ sets by DJ Savage.

A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol (Oceanside)

• Date: Friday, December 20, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM – 9:45 PM

• Location: First Presbyterian Church of Oceanside, 2701 Oceanside Road, Oceanside, NY 11572

• A festive musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol with Gilbert & Sullivan's signature style.

Ultimate Country Dance Party

• Date: Saturday, December 21, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM

• Location: Mulcahy's Pub & Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793

• Dance to country music hits from artists like Zach Bryan, Luke Combs, and Morgan Wallen in a lively party setting.

A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol (Freeport)

• Date: Saturday, December 21, 2024

• Time: 7:30 PM – 9:15 PM

• Location: Freeport United Methodist Church, 46 Pine Street, Freeport, NY 11520

• Another opportunity to enjoy this heartwarming musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol.

Symphonic Pops of Long Island Holiday Concert

• Date: Sunday, December 22, 2024

• Time: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

• Location: Brookside School, 1260 Meadowbrook Rd., North Merrick, NY 11566

• Celebrate the holidays with family-friendly symphonic renditions of your favorite festive tunes. Suggested $10 donation; kids attend for free.

3rd Annual Jingle Bell Ball with Vinyl Revival

• Date: December 18, 2024

• Time: 6:30 PM

• Location: Windows on the Lake, Lake Ronkonkoma

• Enjoy an evening of festive live music by Vinyl Revival at this annual holiday celebration on the lake.

Karaoke Night at Spaghettini

• Date: December 19, 2024 (and 23 more dates)

• Location: Spaghettini, Mineola

• A fun weekly Karaoke Night where you can showcase your vocal talent and enjoy a lively night out with friends.

Songs of the Season: A Classical Christmas with The Hamptons Festival of Music

• Date: December 19, 2024

• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Location: St. Luke's Episcopal Church, East Hampton

• Celebrate the holiday season with a classical Christmas performance featuring renowned musicians from the Met Opera.

VIRTUAL/IN-PERSON: Young Vocalists Perform Old Songs

• Date: December 19, 2024

• Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

• Location: Connetquot Public Library, Bohemia

• Richard Knox hosts this video lecture featuring young vocalists performing classic songs by Gershwin, Porter, and more.

Live Music with Memory Lane

• Date: December 20, 2024

• Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

• Location: Spaghettini, Mineola

• Enjoy a lively evening of food, drinks, and nostalgic live music with Memory Lane.

80s vs. 90s Night feat. Decadia & DJ Savage

• Date: December 20, 2024

• Time: 7:00 PM

• Location: Mulcahy's Pub & Concert Hall, Wantagh

• Dance the night away to the best of the '80s and '90s music with live band Decadia and DJ Savage.

A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol

• Date: December 20, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM – 9:45 PM

• Location: First Presbyterian Church, Oceanside

• A festive retelling of A Christmas Carol infused with Gilbert & Sullivan’s musical style.

East End Women's Choir Presents a Candlelit Christmas

• Date: December 20, 2024

• Time: 7:30 PM

• Location: Westhampton Presbyterian Church, Westhampton Beach

• Join the East End Women's Choir for a heartwarming evening of holiday music in a candlelit setting.

A Classical Christmas

• Date: December 20, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Location: The Suffolk, Riverhead

• Enjoy a spectacular classical music performance celebrating beloved Christmas tunes.

Live Music at Tap Room in Huntington

• Date: December 20, 2024 (and 47 more dates)

• Time: Fridays 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM / Saturdays 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Tap Room, Huntington

• Enjoy live music paired with delicious food every weekend at Tap Room.

Live Music at Tap Room in Jericho

• Date: December 20, 2024 (and 47 more dates)

• Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Tap Room, Jericho

• Another location for a fun night of live music and dining.

Ultimate Country Dance Party

• Date: December 21, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM

• Location: Mulcahy's Pub & Concert Hall, Wantagh

• Enjoy country music hits and dance the night away with DJ sets featuring top artists.

A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol (Freeport)

• Date: December 21, 2024

• Time: 7:30 PM – 9:15 PM

• Location: Freeport United Methodist Church, Freeport

• A festive adaptation of A Christmas Carol with a Gilbert & Sullivan twist.

Miracle on 52nd Street

• Date: December 21, 2024

• Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Location: The Suffolk, Riverhead

• Celebrate the holidays with the Lords of 52nd Street performing classic hits.

Mor Hits @ The Gypsy Lounge

• Date: December 21, 2024

• Time: 7:00 PM

• Location: The Cheese Patch, Patchogue

• Experience a hidden bar setting with live hits from the '60s to 2000s across genres.

Great Neck Library Sunday Concert: Holiday Jazz

• Date: December 22, 2024

• Time: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

• Location: Great Neck Library, Great Neck

• A free afternoon jazz concert featuring holiday classics by the Paul Joseph Trio.

Symphonic Pops of Long Island Holiday Concert

• Date: December 22, 2024

• Time: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

• Location: Brookside School, North Merrick

• A family-friendly holiday concert with a $10 suggested donation and free entry for kids.

Somehow Sorry Live Performance

• Date: December 22, 2024

• Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Location: Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, Stony Brook

• Enjoy a live performance by Somehow Sorry at this special music venue.

East End Women's Choir Presents a Candlelit Christmas (Cutchogue)

• Date: December 22, 2024

• Time: 7:00 PM

• Location: Our Lady of Ostrabrama Roman Catholic Church, Cutchogue

• Another stunning performance by the East End Women's Choir in a candlelit holiday setting.

The live music scene is better than ever, mixing old-school concert magic with new ideas. Whether you're into classic tunes, country beats, or high-tech shows, there's something for everyone. And with young people so excited about live music, we can expect even more good stuff ahead.

Thanks for staying connected with us! We look forward to bringing you more exciting local news and updates in our next issue.