- 516 Update
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- 🌊 Check out some new restaurants that just opened up!
🌊 Check out some new restaurants that just opened up!
From a $10M grant in Hempstead to Elmont safety upgrades and a $160M apartment project, the community is on the rise — plus, fun events ahead!


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Good Day Nassau County Readers!
Welcome to this week’s edition of 516 Update, where we bring you the latest updates on local events, community efforts, and initiatives that make a difference in our neighborhoods.
Read on to catch up on these impactful events and stay connected with your community - don’t forget the upcoming events, including live music!
— Janine, Mo and Nick
Table of Contents
🗳️ Quick Question: We’d Love Your Feedback!How did you like today’s 516 Update? |

🌟 Hempstead Wins $10M State Grant
New York's biggest village just got a big boost. The Village of Hempstead has won a $10 million grant from New York State to fix up its downtown area, after trying three times to get the funding.

Photo - Kurt Semde
Governor Kathy Hochul gave the good news about the money, which comes from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. The plan is to bring in new shops, restaurants, and homes to make the area more lively. Mayor Waylyn Hobbs is excited about what this means for local folks.
"This funding will help us make our downtown a great place for everyone who lives here and visits," said Mayor Hobbs. The money will help create jobs and make the whole area better for shopping and hanging out.
This is big news for Hempstead, which has had some tough times lately. The grant will help fix up streets, support new businesses, and make the downtown area more welcoming. It's part of New York State's plan to help towns across Long Island bounce back and grow stronger.

🏗️ $160M Apartment Project Brings New Life
A big change is coming to Main Street. Local developers are investing $160 million to build new apartments where an old, run-down site once stood. The project will add 262 new homes spread across two buildings, taking up about 4 acres of land.

Photo - Nord Development Group
This isn't just about putting up new buildings. The apartments will be open to people with different income levels, which means more folks can find a place to call home. Construction teams plan to start work next year, and they expect to finish in a few years' time.
City officials are pretty excited about what this means for the area. One council member said it's all about building a real community, not just apartments. The new buildings will look modern but still fit in with the neighborhood's style.
This project comes at just the right time for Nassau County. It gives people more housing options and fixes up an old, unused area. It's the kind of project that helps make the whole neighborhood better for everyone.

🏛️ Historic Building Gets New Life
Big news for Hempstead residents! The village is buying the six-story Helen Keller office building for $8.7 million. The plan is to turn it into a fresh, modern Village Hall that will house the police department and other government offices.
![]() Newsday / Howard Schnapp | Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. is pretty excited about this change. "This new building will make it easier for us to help our community," he says. The move will put all the village services under one roof, making life simpler for everyone who needs to get things done at Village Hall. The building sits right in the middle of town, making it perfect for a government center. |
It's cool to see the village giving new purpose to an existing building instead of starting from scratch. This smart move will save money and keep a piece of local history alive.
This is more than just moving to a new office - it's about making government work better for people. When everything's in one place, getting help or information will be much easier for residents.

🚦New Traffic Safety Upgrades Coming to Elmont High School Area
Nassau County is getting serious about keeping students safe. New traffic lights will be popping up at busy intersections near Elmont High School this spring, thanks to Legislator Carrié Solages' latest push for better road safety.
![]() Photo - Office of Legislator Carrie Solages | The need for these lights came straight from the community. Parents and neighbors have been worried about kids crossing these busy streets on their way to school. "Our children's safety is our top priority," Solages said in a recent statement. These aren't just any old traffic lights. They're going to make it much easier for drivers to spot students crossing the street, especially during those busy morning and afternoon hours. The whole project should be ready to go by early spring. |


Community Takes Action Against Tire Dumping 🛞
Oyster Bay residents are fighting back against illegal tire dumping near Muttontown Preserve. Local volunteers recently cleaned up dozens of dumped tires, and authorities plan to install cameras and use license plate readers to catch those responsible. The school district and police are working together to stop future dumping.
Wantagh Gears Up for Huge St. Patrick's Day Bash 🍀
The 5th Annual Wantagh St. Patrick's Day Parade happened on March 16. The fun kicked off with Nassau County PBA President Tommy Shevlin as grand marshal. Two block parties occurred after the parade, with extra LIRR trains running to handle the crowds.
New Science Lab Gets Students Excited 🔬
Wantagh High School just opened a cool new science research classroom packed with modern lab gear and tech. The space gives students hands-on experience with real scientific tools and makes research fun. Both teachers and students are pumped about the upgrade.

🍽️ New Restaurants To Try
Lucharitos – Mineola
A new Tex-Mex spot just arrived in Mineola! Lucharitos is now open inside the LIRR Station, bringing bold tacos, gelato, and a coffee bar—all in a fun, colorful space.
Selita’s – Lynbrook
New in Lynbrook: Selita’s is serving up both traditional and vegan Italian dishes, plus cocktails in a cozy, welcoming space. Great option for mixed-diet groups or date night.
Guac Shop Mexican Grill – Massapequa
Guac Shop just opened across from Burns Park! Known for their build-your-own burritos, bowls, and tacos—with keto and veggie options too. Great for a casual lunch or dinner.


🪩Upcoming Events and Things To Do!

📅 03/28 | Back to the 80's Bingo Party | VFW Post 2718 | Franklin Square
Dress up in your best 80s gear and enjoy a fun night of bingo, music, and retro vibes!
📅 03/29 | A Night at Studio 54 | Cancun Long Island | Hicksville
Long Island’s hottest disco-themed dance party with retro glam.
📅 03/29 | RVCFD Woodland Fundraiser | Woodland Engine Co. 4 | Rockville Centre
Support the fire department at this magical themed night.
📅 03/30 | Comedy Night Fundraiser | The Brokerage Comedy Club | Bellmore
Laugh for a cause at this special fundraising comedy night.
📅 03/31 | Maxi's Cigar Dinner | Verdi's of Westbury | Westbury
Enjoy a classy evening of cigars, dinner, and good company.


📅 03/26 | Early Membership Renewal Night | Hosted by Girl Scouts of Nassau County | Hicksville United Methodist Church | Hicksville
Jump-start another year of fun with early Girl Scout sign-ups.
**Family Friendly
📅 03/29 | Katt Williams | UBS Arena | Elmont
Bold, hilarious stand-up comedy live on stage.
📅 03/29 | Gary Owen | Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair | Westbury
Enjoy a night of laughs with renowned comedian Gary Owen.
📅 03/30 | Winter Wonderland Ball | Temple Beth Am | Merrick
A festive afternoon of dancing and seasonal magic for all ages.
**Family Friendly
📅 03/30 | Emo Day | Long Beach Public Library | Long Beach
Celebrate emo culture with music, fun, and themed activities.
**Family Friendly


📅 03/24 | NY Islanders vs. Blue Jackets | UBS Arena | Elmont
Watch the Islanders battle Columbus in a thrilling NHL game.


📅 03/28 | Elvis Tribute Spectacular | Sergio's Italian Restaurant | Massapequa
A night of Elvis classics performed live by Don Anthony.
📅 03/28 | Pagman & Robin | Salisbury Tavern | Westbury
Rock the night away with this lively performance.
📅 03/28 | The Shoobies Live | Palmer's American Grille | Farmingdale
Great food and good vibes with live music from The Shoobies.
📅 03/28 | Suburban Brothers | Dang Roadhouse | Seaford
A fun night of live music and energy at your local spot.
📅 03/29 | Instant Kharma Live | Shannon Rose Pub | Lynbrook
Rock covers and good vibes to light up the night.
📅 03/30 | Bangers and Mash | Johnny McGorey's Pub | Massapequa Park
Acoustic Irish tunes to close the weekend in style.


📅 03/25 | The Importance of Teamwork | Uniondale Public Library | Uniondale
Explore teamwork through engaging activities and discussion.

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