Oyster Bay Main Street News

One Week Left! Come Celebrate with OBMSA during our End of the Season Benefit

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 21 Sep 2016 19:51:00 +0000

Trivia Night Continues in Oyster Bay...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 15:50:00 +0000

Join the Oyster Bay Main Street Association

the First Tuesday of Every Month

for a fun-filled evening of trivia & competition!

Dancing in the Street Continues for two more Friday Nights this July!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 21 Jul 2016 18:27:00 +0000

Please Join Us!

Grants for Oyster Bay businesses help retain its beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 19:32:00 +0000

The owner of Osteria Leana in Oyster Bay used a $3,000 grant from the Oyster Bay Main Street Association to help lure customers to his restaurant on South Street in Oyster Bay. Wednesday, July 13, 2016 Photo Credit: Howard Schnapp

Originally printed in Newsday

Updated July 14, 2016 6:00 AM
By Ted Phillips ted.phillips@newsday.com

When Peter Van Der Mije opened Osteria Leana in the hamlet of Oyster Bay, he was faced with the problem of how to bring people into a restaurant off the beaten track.

The restaurant opened May 23 in the former location of the Oyster Bay Brewing Company, which faces a parking lot behind South Street and Audrey Avenue.
“We’re not in the best area; we’re not on Main Street,” Van Der Mije said.
The red brick storefront with black awnings and gooseneck lighting used a $3,000 grant from the nonprofit Oyster Bay Main Street Association that requires recipients to adhere to aesthetic choices intended to maintain the historic character of the hamlet and promote visual cohesion.

“For our style restaurant the best thing was a simple, elegant design, but also it had to be functional,” Van Der Mije said. “First and foremost we wanted something to be classy, something timeless, but also portrayed a little bit of the sense of Oyster Bay.”
The grant program, which began in 2012, has expanded and with it the fundraising needs have grown, too. This year the sign and improvement program increased its award to up to $3,000 from $2,000. The business must cover at least 25 percent of the cost of the sign and facade improvements.

Meredith Maus, executive director of the association, said its fundraising campaign has increased its goal for next year to $15,000 from $10,000.
To receive a grant, businesses must submit plans to the association to be approved by the group’s design committee. The association awards four or five grants a year on a first-come, first-served basis.

A 12-page design guide calls for things like the restoration of architectural elements and use of natural materials and choices that are in keeping with buildings’ style and history.

“We want a cohesiveness throughout the downtown,” Maus said. “We like the general look and feel to be one of a historic hamlet.”
Ryan Schlotter, co-owner of the Oyster Bay Brewing Company on Audrey Avenue, said the grants make it easier for businesses to invest in better signage. The brewery was allotted a $3,000 grant for its signage and facade at its new location, where it opened in February.

“Signage might be the last place some places will spend money,” Schlotter said. For their new location, the brewery went “for that Nantucket kind of city-by-the-sea kind of look.”
Schlotter said he sees the cumulative impact of the program on the hamlet.

“You can see when you walk up and down the street the signs are a step above what most places do in other towns; it adds to it and makes the whole street look really nice,” Schlotter said.

Oyster Bay Councilman Chris Coschignano said discussions are ongoing within the planning and development department about creating an overlay district that would incorporate some of the aesthetic choices promoted by the association “to enhance what they’re doing now and maybe expand it and give them some help.”

“We like what they’re doing and the town definitely wants to do more,” Coschignano said.

- - -

For more information on the Grant please visit: http://www.oysterbaymainstreet.org/obmsa-facade-and-sign-grant.html

To help us continue this positive momentum in the downtown, please consider contributing to our fundraising campaign: http://www.oysterbaymainstreet.org/fundraising-initiatives.html

The Teaching Studios of Art Announces...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 11 Mar 2016 22:34:00 +0000

New Children's Classes for 2 Age Groups

Our Classical Art Lessons for Children program takes young artists seriously. In fact, the program we put them through is just as rigorous and thorough as the one we have created for our adult students. But it's much more fun!

The Children’s program at Teaching Studios offers young artists an opportunity to study traditional drawing and painting techniques using graphite, charcoal and oil paints. Young artists begin with learning a step-by-step approach to the fundamentals of drawing and painting. They begin by learning concepts such as value, form, line, composition during the drawing program. Students move onto painting when ready, working on still-life, then landscape and finally, portrait. A fun and supportive classroom atmosphere is cultivated.

Instructor Leeanna Chipana has been working with young artists for almost 10 years in the North Shore area and developed Long Island’s first classical youth program. She’s developed a unique curriculum specifically designed for children. She has been joined by experienced instructors Anne Gunthner and Abigail Tullis, as the program has grown and we have added more classes for younger artists. This program provides a great opportunity for young artists to begin to build skills. It is ideal for the attention span of a mature child as classes run 2 hours long.

Classes start on April 4th. You can learn more about the program or register on our website at

http://www.teachingstudios.com

Join Oakcliff Sailing Center for their 4th Annual...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 19:48:00 +0000

Spring Art Show & Champagne Brunch!

They Asked and You Voted...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 16:42:00 +0000

OYSTER BAY BREWING COMPANY

IS THE

CRAFT BEER BREWERY!!

Congratulations to the Oyster Bay Brewing Company on their impressive win, replacing Blue Point Brewery as the regional winner of the Bethpage Best of Long Island competition!

ACROSS ALL CATEGORIES:

50,717 BUSINESSES WERE NOMINATED

2,050,950 VOTES WERE CAST

AND

479 WINNERS WERE CROWNED

BEST OF LONG ISLAND!

For more information, visit: http://bestof.longislandpress.com

Making Waves in Oyster Bay

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 17:07:00 +0000

Please Join Us for an Opportunity to

MEET MAIN STREET!

You may be familiar with OBMSA and all our initiatives or you may only know us by name, but now is your opportunity to learn more about Main Street and meet the Board and staff behind the organization making waves in Oyster Bay!

JANUARY 28, 2016

7:00 in the evening

_________________

OAKCLIFF SAILING CENTER

4 South Street, The Great Room

Oyster Bay, New York 11771

__________________

Join us as we reflect on the past year and discuss our objectives for the year to come in the Great Room of the new dormitory constructed for the staff and students of Oakcliff's rigorous training programs. While there, learn more about Oakcliff and all the great work the organization is doing in the world of sailing and for the reputation of Oyster Bay!

Hope to see you there!

Townsend Park Renovation is Underway in Oyster Bay!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 15:21:00 +0000

Current state of Townsend Park

Oyster Bay, NY – In cooperation with the Town of Oyster Bay and local merchant Main Street Nursery, the Oyster Bay Main Street Association is pleased to announce the renovation of the public park in between the historic Oyster Bay Post Office and the historic Oyster Bay Town Hall known as Townsend Park.

Originally designated a public park in 1906, when the Townsend Family subdivided their lot and created Audrey Avenue, the area was largely used as a public gathering space and in 1909 a bandstand was erected on the site to suit this purpose. After the original bandstand was torn down in the 1930s, the park was given fresh life when a replica bandstand was created and dedicated in 1981.

Original Bandstand and Layout of Townsend Park circa 1910
Postcard courtesy of the Oyster Bay Historical Society

In the ensuing 35 years, several piece-meal renovations have been completed in the area. While originally no trees adorned the public park, over time three Honey Locust trees were added to the west side; approximately 20 years ago, a Christmas tree, originally intended to be temporary, was added to the east side; and most recently, within the last five years, two Purple Leaf Plums were also added to the east side in an attempt to even out the lot. These mismatched and overgrown trees have severely limited the visibility of the bandstand and the usable space within the public green.

The plans, provided by Main Street Nursery and sponsored by the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, seek to create a uniform and attractive design for an area that has great potential to be the focal point of the downtown once again! Based off of the assessment of certified arborist, Jason LaMay, the existing trees were recommended for removal to be replaced with six Zelkova Green Vase trees more suited for the area and properly spaced on the property to improve sight lines. Plans also include improved lighting, the placement of benches, improved landscaping and repair of the brick walkway in the area. In total, a substantial improvement to a small but important area, resulting in another great asset to the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Community!

With support from the Town of Oyster Bay and other local organizations – including Friends of the Bay, the OB-EN Chamber of Commerce, Oyster Bay Civic Association, Oyster Bay Historical Society, Oyster Bay Railroad Museum, Oyster Bay Rotary Club, OB-EN Youth Athletic Association, Raynham Hall Museum, Sagamore Hill NHS and the East Norwich Civic Association - we are excited to move forward with this renovation and have it complete for the whole community to enjoy during the Old Fashioned Holiday Market and Christmas Tree lighting on Saturday, December 12, 2015!

An Economic Vision for Nassau County

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 23:32:00 +0000

There has been plenty of talk surrounding the economic state of Nassau County - from concerns over corporations leaving and taking job opportunities with them to the so-called "Brain Drain" with the youngest generation leaving the county to find job opportunities elsewhere - but by and large, there has been no action.

Projections indicate that over the next 10 years, by 2024:

Nassau County's population will decline by approximately 3.0% from 2012 to 2024
The senior (60+) segment will increase to 27.4% of the County population, up from 22.2% in 2012
The County will continue to experience a decrease of 11.1% of those aged 10-19, who will go on to college or move elsewhere and not return to Nassau County.
The 0-9 year old segment will have approximately 60,000 fewer children or about 30% less than in 2000.

These trends are a cause for serious concern - If something is not done there will be serious economic ramifications for our schools, taxes and real estate prices.

If you are interested in learning more about potential solutions to: Restore economic vitality,

Combat population decline, and

Create good paying jobs...

...Then Join Us!

A Time for Specters & Spooks in a Historic Haunted Home known for Soldiers & Spies

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 17:41:00 +0000

In the heart of downtown Oyster Bay...

stands the ancestral home of one of the most influential families in the Hamlet's history

- the Townsend Family -

(Credit: Newsday / Thomas A. Ferrara)

The home has stood through the centuries, bearing witness to the passing of generations and the build up of the downtown that now surrounds it. Known as Raynham Hall, the home has received some notoriety beyond its historic ties to the Revolutionary War and George Washington's Culper Spy Ring by being named one of the most haunted places on Long Island by Newsday.

Fittingly, for this season, the home has been chosen as the venue for a killer Halloween Party hosted by Raynham Hall and the Oyster Bay Main Street Association!

Enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the homestead outside of normal museum hours, while delighting in live music provided by the band Mad Pursuit and partaking in our open bar and hors d' oeuvres!

Further details below:

Before the trick-or-treating commences on the 31st,

Raynham Hall Museum

& The Oyster Bay Main Street Association

cordially invite you to join them

for a Halloween Party that is sure to be a treat!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2015

AT RAYNHAM HALL MUSEUM

20 WEST MAIN STREET, OYSTER BAY

$125 per person including a seated buffet banquet at 7 pm
or
$75 per person for the after-party only, from 9 pm to 12 am

Music by Mad Pursuit
Beer by Oyster Bay Brewing
Cocktails, hors d' oeuvres

Dress Code: Spook-tacular (prizes for best costume)
Please Call 516.922.6982 for more information

Order Tickets Online Below:

Could the Best of Long Island Be Right Here in Oyster Bay?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 21:02:00 +0000

It's that time of year again! Bethpage Federal Credit Union's 11th year of the "Best of Long Island" competition is underway! Voting is open from October 1st until December 18th, vote early and vote often for your favorite businesses, organizations, and events!

Oyster Bay has quite a few nominees in the running this year and it would be great if we could all take a moment to support our small businesses and organizations, who do so much for our downtown! Each title (i.e. Entertainment, Automotive, etc.) is a link to the voting page for that section, just click it to be directed to the Best of Long Island page!

Here are the Oyster Bay Nominees:

Entertainment

Annual Event or Festival

Oyster Bay Cruise Nights
Oyster Bay Oyster Festival

Celebrity Impersonator

James Foote as Theodore Roosevelt

Museum

Raynham Hall Museum
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Public Garden

Planting Fields Arboretum

Automotive

Foreign Auto Dealership

BMW of Oyster Bay

Long Island Collectible Car Club

New York Auto Fest

Motorcycle Shop

20th Century Cycles

Clothing

Vintage Clothing

Next to New Boutique

Education

Art School

The Teaching Studios of Art

Catholic School

St. Dominic's High School

School Principal

Cecilia St. John of St. Dominic's

Food

Best Gyro

Greek Cove

Best Hot Dogs

Bonanza's

Sausage & Peppers Sandwich

Bonanza's

Health & Wellness

Assisted Living

Harbor House
Oyster Bay Manor

Day Spa

Blue Water Spa

Personal Trainer

Meta Burn Fitness

Skin Care

Blue Water Spa

Home & Garden

Appliance Store

Appliance World

Architect

Oyster Bay Drafting

Barbecue Store

Appliance World

Nursery Garden Store

Main Street Nursery
Martin Viette

Patio Furniture Store

Dodds & Eder Home

Roofing Company

Oyster Bay Roofing

Nightlife & Spirits

Craft Beer Brewery

Oyster Bay Brewing Company

Services

Dry Cleaning

Greensleeves Cleaners

Environmental Organization

Friends of the Bay

Gold Buyer

Coin Galleries of Oyster Bay

Shopping

Antique Store

The Attic Door

Jewelry Store

Coin Galleries of Oyster Bay

Sports

Recreational Center

Oyster Bay Community Center

Skate Shop

L-Industrie Long Boards

Water Sport Rental

WaterFront Center

Weddings

Honeymoon Travel Planners

Cruise Planners
Oyster Bay Travel

Wedding Jeweler

Coin Galleries of Oyster Bay

Save the Date: Third Annual End of the Season Benefit

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 20:16:00 +0000

The Oyster Bay Main Street Association

requests the pleasure of your company at our

Annual End of the Season Benefit

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

6 o’clock in the evening until 9 o’clock

The Creek Beach Club

1 Horse Hollow Road Locust Valley, New York

-------------------------------------------------------

Prior to the Event...

Beginning at 5 in the evening, a small cocktail party will be hosted by the Main Street Association at the Main Club House for an additional contribution of $75 per person.

Funds raised will support the commencement of our newest endeavor focused on incentivizing new business in the Hamlet through a revolving loan fund. The Board of Directors and staff welcome the community’s insight and invite all to learn more about MSA and the positive

changes happening in Oyster Bay.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available for purchase below:

OBMSA Receives Preservation Grant

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 15:40:00 +0000

National Trust for Historic Preservation Awards the

Oyster Bay Main Street Association a Preservation Grant

To Procure Historic Architectural Services for 49 Audrey Avenue

Media Contacts:

NTHP Public Affairs, 202.588.6141, PR@SavingPlaces.org

OBMSA, Meredith Maus, 516.922.6982, mamaus@oysterbaymainstreet.org

Oyster Bay, New York (August 20, 2015) - The Oyster Bay Main Street Association was awarded a $4,718.75 grant by the National Trust for Historic Preservation from the Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation. These grant funds will be used to secure the services of Historic Architect John Collins during the initial planning phases of an intended larger renovation of 49 Audrey Avenue by the owner.

49 Audrey Avenue, April 2015
Photos by Meredith Maus

Project Description

Mr. Collins will produce detailed drawings and plans on 49 Audrey Avenue, which will provide a complete overview of the project and will be vital during every phase of the intended renovation. Record drawings will be completed to the standards of the Historic American Building Survey and will serve to provide a deeper understanding of existing conditions within the building, highlighting important historic features and fabrics. Should later investigations reveal greater historical importance related to the building, these drawings will serve as a record of the original building prior to renovation. Preliminary and final design drawings; construction drawings; and code compliance oversight will also be provided and supported through this grant.

49 Audrey Avenue is a large, high-visibility building on the main thoroughfare of Oyster Bay. The five apartments on the second and third floors have been vacant and out of compliance for over ten years and the commercial spaces have been vacant since the former tenant, The Chocolate Lady, relocated in 2012. The renovation of this high profile building will help two-fold by combating blight in the downtown, as well as, increasing the number of residential units available in the downtown - giving a boost to the base available to better support local commerce. "Beyond that," said Meredith Maus, Executive Director of the Main Street Association, "we hope this renovation will also serve as an example of how the proper renovation of an historic building will help attract and sustain appropriate businesses in our downtown."

Grant Information

"Organizations like the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, help to ensure that communities and towns all across America retain their unique sense of place," said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "We are honored to provide a grant to the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, which will use the funds to help preserve an important piece of our shared national heritage."

Grants from the National Trust Preservation Funds range from $2,500 to $5,000 and have provided over $15 million since 2003. These matching grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations and public agencies across the country to support wide-ranging activities including consultant services for rehabilitating buildings, technical assistance for tourism that promotes historic resources, and the development of materials for education and outreach campaigns.

For more information on National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Preservation Fund grants, visit: www.PreservationNation.org/funding

About the National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately-funded nonprofit organization that works to save America’s historic places to enrich our future. The National Trust for Historic Preservation is committed to protecting America’s rich cultural legacy and helping build vibrant, sustainable communities that reflect our nation’s diversity. Follow us on Twitter @presnation.

About the Oyster Bay Main Street Association

Oyster Bay Main Street Association (OBMSA) is dedicated to enhancing and promoting an attractive and thriving downtown, while maintaining its historic integrity. We are a 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit using the National Main Street Approach® to downtown revitalization. To learn more or to become a member, please visit: www.oysterbaymainstreet.org.

Dancing in the Street Concludes Most Successful Season!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 16:36:00 +0000

DJ Mark James teaching the crowd some Swing!
Photo by Meredith Maus

Oyster Bay Main Street Association's

Event Bigger and Better than Ever

By Diane J. Meltzer

Starting with the holiday weekend full moon on July 3rd, and ending with the full “blue” moon on July 31st, DANCING IN THE STREET lit up downtown Oyster Bay for five Friday evenings. Perfect weather on all five dates enticed almost 800 people to “come on down,” with over 200 on the final night.

Dancing!
Photo by Meredith Maus

BMW of Oyster Bay was once again the sponsor for this fifth season, and brought a shiny new car every week to display. Two local boy scouts, hired with money generously donated by the Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce Cruise Night, set up and took down the temporary barriers each Friday to close off the street near the bandstand. And everyone’s favorite DJs—Louis del Prete and Mark James—took turns returning to play a variety of music and give free dance instructions to the crowds.

Selection of BMW cars on display throughout the event

Photos by Meredith Maus

The difference this year was the greater diversity participating: young and old, singles and couples, from near and far, taking to the dance floor/street; families enjoying a night out together and not once checking their phones; senior citizens sitting in chairs and happily watching the action that brought back wonderful memories. With many walking through town and eating in the restaurants before and after, it was a win-win situation for all!

Dancing into the night!
Photo by Meredith Maus

7 Things To Do in Oyster Bay

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 18:45:00 +0000

Postcard Courtesy of the Oyster Bay Historical Society

C&T's Empire Insider will give you the ins and outs of what to do, what to see, and where to see it in all corners of New York state.

Originally posted in AAA's Car & Travel, July/August 2015

AAA.com/EmpireInsider
By: Andrew G. Rosen

Oyster Bay is often revered as the crown jewel of the opulent North Shore. With deep historical ties, including President Theodore Roosevelt taking up residence in the region, it’s no wonder the area is consistently a must-visit for Northeasterners. The stellar water quality of Oyster Bay helps produce mouth-watering oysters, representing up to 90 percent of the oysters and up to 40 percent of the hard clams harvested in all of New York State.

Planting Fields Greenhouse
Photo by Meredith Maus

1. With over 400 acres of rolling lawns and woodland paths, Planting Fields Arboretum offers a gorgeous collection of horticulture, much of which is unique to the area. Coming soon is the new “sensory garden” where an interactive pool and sheltered outdoor room promise to deliver tranquility and beauty to all who visit.

Sailboats loading at the WFC
Photo by Meredith Maus

2. Once a hub for manufacturing WWII minesweepers for the U.S. Navy, The WaterFront Center is now an environmental education and recreation not- for-profit community center. After renting a kayak or paddleboard, be sure to check out the historic Christeen, the oldest surviving oyster sloop in North America (sunset and harbor sails are offered).

Sagamore Hill NHS
Photo by Meredith Maus

3. One visit and it’s easy to understand why Theodore Roosevelt, the only U.S. president born in New York City, made Sagamore Hill his “summer White House.” Technically in Cove Neck, east of Oyster Bay Cove, the recently rehabilitated home (as of press time, expected to re-open in mid-July) serves up a slice of history.

Flight Tasting at OBBC
Photo by Meredith Maus

4. The nautical-themed tasting room at the Oyster Bay Brewing Company is standing room only, but after a craft beer flight, who cares! Watch them brew their hoppy IPA or crisp amber ale on premises or fill up your empty growler and enjoy from the comfort of home.

Photo Courtesy Audubon New York

5. Originally designed to provide a protected environment for songbirds in the 1920s, the 12-acre Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center was donated to the public by the president’s cousins in his name. Visitors leave with a greater respect for the natural world after enjoying hands-on environmental education programs.

Photo Courtesy Oyster Fest Facebook

6. We had to talk about the oysters, no? The annual Oyster Festival (Oct. 17–18, 2015) attracts over 200,000 people who partake in oysters— raw, fried and stewed. As the East Coast’s largest waterfront festival, you’ll find entertainment, rides, crafts and over 60 food options (just in case oysters aren’t your thing).

Photo by Meredith Maus

7. Rooted in the community since the early 1900s, Bonanza’s is more than your average walk-up snack window. Enjoy a chili dog (it’s boiled!), gooey cheese fries and cool off with creative homemade Italian ice flavors such as margarita, PB&J and cake batter. No wonder this place has been a community staple for generations.

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site Re-Opening!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 17:07:00 +0000

Sagamore Hill, Photograph taken by Meredith Maus

Oyster Bay, New York - The main house at Sagamore Hill National Historic Site has been closed to visitors since December 4, 2011. In the past four years - while the grounds, Visitor Center, and Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard have remained open - the 26th President's former home underwent a $10 million renovation.

The pain-staking renovation may not be noticeable to returning visitors - and this is exactly the point.

All of the books, hunting trophies, and furniture were removed from the massive three-story and 28 room mansion during the renovation - which included replacing the roof, repairing the foundation, and rewiring the home's electrical system - and then replaced exactly where they had been.

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site during Renovation
Photograph by Meredith Maus

"We hope that if he walked

through the front door right

now, he would think he was

back during the presidential

years."

- Susan Sarna

Museum Curator

The home is now slated to open its doors again to the public and a grand re-opening celebration has been organized by the staff to commemorate this momentous occasion!

Come one, Come All!

To the Re-opening Celebration & Family Festival!

Sunday, July 12, 2015 starting at 10 am

Reopening address to be presented by Roosevelt family members, public officials, and an appearance by Theodore Roosevelt (portrayed by James Foote)
10 AM - Tale of Two Teddies - Children's book author, Kathleen Bart will be signing books in the book store
11 AM to 4 PM - Children's Activities

Arts & Crafts
Old-Fashioned Games
Pony Rides
Rough Rider Enlistment

1 PM - "Rough Riders" Cavalry Demonstration
2 PM - Sagamore Hill Band - Under the direction of Steve Walker
11 AM to 4 PM - Other Performances Demonstrations & Services

Long Island Band Organ under direction of Michael Falco
Interactive Photobooth provided by Baltimore Photo Social
Historic Carriages displayed by Paumanok Driving Club
Antique Automobiles displayed by Long Island Sound Region: Classic Car Club
Food & Refreshements will be available through vendors on site

Sagamore Hill's gateway community - Oyster Bay - is also busy prepping for the event. Trolly service will be available from the LIRR station and other parking locations in the downtown to Sagamore Hill to help cut down on congestion at the hill. Great restaurants and businesses will be open for those interested in making it a whole day affair!

The Fifth Season of 'Dancing in the Street' Coming to Oyster Bay!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 21 Jun 2015 15:50:00 +0000

Project Clean Sweep: Downtown Oyster Bay

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 17:18:00 +0000

Quick Glimpse of Downtown Oyster Bay:

We have all noticed the state of the downtown: the overflowing garbage cans, the loose garbage, and the dirty sidewalks and streets. Numerous editorials have been written about the state of our downtown, some calling it a "sorry site" and still others comparing parts of it to a third world country. Letters from concerned citizens have pointed out that "the filth, trash/garbage on the ground [and] under the trash receptacles is prolific" and that spotted attempts to clean the downtown have not had an impact - as one resident put it, "doing it once is like spit in the ocean."

In response to this, the Oyster Bay Main Street Association is looking to fill a recently created part-time position within the organization through our Clean Sweep Initiative. We are looking to hire an individual to work twice a week, or as needed, to get the garbage in this downtown under control. The job description is as follows:

If you, or anybody you know, are looking for a summer job and are interested in learning more please contact Executive Director, Meredith Maus, by phone: 516.922.6982 or by email: mamaus@oysterbaymainstreet.org.

Energy Efficiency Programs & Financing Info Session

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 19:28:00 +0000

Attention all Homeowners,

Small Business Owners, & Non-profits!

Are your monthly energy bills getting out of hand?

Here are the facts:

Now learn how you can take advantage of these programs and receive similar results!

Free of Charge, Please RSVP to:

Meredith Maus, Executive Director of the Oyster Bay Main Street Association

516.922.6982 or Mamaus@oysterbaymainstreet.org

Earth Day in Oyster Bay: Plus things You can do Everyday

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 19:52:00 +0000

How Can You Help and Get Involved?

Image courtesy of www.sustainablefurnishings.org

On the 45th Anniversary of Earth Day it is important we take a moment to consider how we might get involved in taking care of our planet. The concept of taking care of a whole planet can be overwhelming, but you can make a difference by getting involved on a local level, right here in Oyster Bay. Stealing a sentiment here from Theodore Roosevelt's 1906 Fourth of July speech, "The way to be good citizens of this nation, you friends here, is to be good citizens of Oyster Bay."

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS - VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

There are many organizations you can get involved with that are working to clean up our harbor, beaches and our streets for the benefit of all. Below are some different activities, volunteer opportunities and programs you may want to involve yourself in sponsored by the Town of Oyster Bay Department of Environmental Resources, Friends of the Bay, New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA), and PSEG-LI:

- Coming up this Saturday, April 25th there will be a Harbor & Beach Clean Up Co-sponsored by the Town of Oyster Bay, Friends of the Bay, and the North Oyster Bay Baymen Association. To learn more about volunteering Call: 516-677-5943

- The Town of Oyster Bay's Department of Environmental Resources installed a rain garden near the waterfront to help mitigate the negative effects of storm water runoff. To learn more about the garden click here. The Department will assist students with volunteer and scouting projects in creating and building rain gardens. For more information call (516) 677-5853.

- TOB also has several other programs you can be involved in including Water Quality Monitoring, GeesePeace program, and multiple outreach programs. To learn more about programs offered through the Town click here.

- Friends of the Bay also has many volunteer opportunities year round for those interested. To get involved visit their website: www.friendsofthebay.org.

- The Oyster Bay Main Street Association will also be hiring an individual twice a week to clean up around the downtown - sweeping up loose debris on our streets and in our parking lots. If you know anybody who is interested please have them contact Executive Director, Meredith Maus, 516-922-6982 or by email, mamaus@oysterbaymainstreet.org.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY - OPPORTUNITIES TO SAVE YOU MONEY

Outside of volunteering and helping to clean up our ecosystem there is something we can each do to ensure that our homes and our businesses are efficiently using energy or in some cases, producing energy.

- NYSERDA is offering free energy audits to non-profits and businesses with 10 employees or less through their Small Commercial Energy Efficiency Program. Energy assessments can help small businesses and not-for-profit organizations make informed electrical energy decisions and implement energy-efficiency strategies. Assessments help identify economically viable improvements that yield substantial annual energy savings. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Elisabeth Fiteni, NYSERDA Regional Outreach Coordinator at 631-471-1215 x166 or by email: efiteni@cdcli.org.

- NYSERDA is also offering through their Small Commercial Energy Efficiency Program two low-interest loan options to finance energy efficiency projects. These financing opportunities help small businesses and not-for-profits access upfront capital to make upgrades in their buildings to improve energy efficiency and lower their energy bills. For more information visit: http://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/Small-Business-Financing or Contact Elisabeth Fiteni at the contact info above.

- PSEG-LI is also cooperating with NYSERDA in a solar program, The NY-Sun Incentive Program. This program is open to residents and small businesses and provides funding to help reduce the cost of installing solar electric systems across New York State. Click here to learn more about how to participate in this program.

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The Oyster Bay Main Street Association and the Chamber of Commerce would be happy to arrange a public information session regarding these programs if individuals are interested in learning more. If you are interested, please send a quick email stating as much to mamaus@oysterbaymainstreet.org.

Happy Earth Day!

Oyster Bay Community Expo

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:10:00 +0000

Are you interested in getting more involved in the community? Have you been looking for a summer internship or volunteer opportunities?
Well then, You should...

Join Us Monday, March 30, 2015

4pm - 8pm at the Oyster Bay HS Gym

for the

Oyster Bay - East Norwich Community Expo!

The Oyster Bay and East Norwich Communities are serviced by a number of great organizations and now is your opportunity to get to know them! Sponsored by the Oyster Bay- East Norwich Chamber of Commerce and the Oyster Bay High School Guidance Department, this event brings together:

the local non-profits,
museums,

educational groups,

summer camps,
sports organizations,
houses of worship,

charitable organizations,
environmental groups,
emergency service organizations,

civic and fraternal groups,
local employers, and more!

And puts them all under one roof! Giving you the opportunity to see and interact with all the different organizations and find one that meets your interests or those of your child.

All residents and parents are invited and encouraged to attend this free event. Meet the groups - and the people behind them - that invest in our community. Take the time to share your ideas and learn how to get more involved!

Some of the local organizations participating are:

Atlantic Steamer Fire Co, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Community Preparedness, Friends of the Bay, General Utilities, Life Enrichment Center, Mill Neck Manor, North Shore Assembly of God, North Shore Community Church, North Shore/ LIJ Hospital, Oakcliff Sailing, OB-EN Boys & Girls Club, OB-EN Chamber, Oyster Bay Civic Association, Oyster Bay Fire Co. 1, Oyster Bay High School Booster Club, Oyster Bay Historical Society, Oyster Bay Main Street Association, OB-EN Public Library, Oyster Bay Railroad Museum, Oyster Bay Rotary, Sagamore Junior Sailing of Sagamore Yacht Club, St. Dominic's CYO, Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center, The WaterFront Center, and the Youth & Family Counseling Agency...

All press requests and inquiries can be sent to the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Chamber of Commerce, OBENchamber@gmail.com or 922-6464.

OBMSA Still Accepting Applications

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 10 Mar 2015 00:45:00 +0000

OBMSA is still accepting applications for the third cycle of its privately funded Facade and Sign Grant. We are currently halfway through the cycle and will be accepting applications on a rolling basis until August 11, 2015.

The grant is eligible to new and existing businesses in the downtown who are interested in securing a new sign to positively highlight their business in the downtown. The Main Street Association will work closely with business owners to design appropriate signage and will reimburse owners 75% of their pre-approved sign up to $2,000.

For more information about eligible participants and for a copy of the application, visit: http://www.oysterbaymainstreet.org/obmsa-facade-and-sign-grant.html.

Since 2013, we have invested over $20,000 into the downtown, assisting 12 new and existing businesses.

Here are some photos from the previous and current grant cycles:

2013

4-8 Audrey Avenue Before

4-8 Audrey Avenue After

80 South Street After

9 East Main Street After

2014

2015

Join us for OBMSA's Annual Meeting!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 18:55:00 +0000

Please Join Us!

Oyster Bay Main Street Association's

Annual Meeting

January 29th at 6:00 pm

Thursday, January 29, 2015 join the Oyster Bay Main Street Association for their Annual Meeting to be held at the Christ Church Parish Hall - 61 East Main Street, Oyster Bay, New York 11771.

Enjoy refreshments as we review the accomplishments of the organization over the past year and what we are looking to accomplish in the year to come.

The meeting, which is OPEN and FREE to the public, is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Main Street Association and how you can get involved in the improvement of downtown Oyster Bay or, as the case may be, what we as an organization can do for you as a resident, building owner or business owner in the downtown.

SPECIAL GUEST - JOHN COLLINS

A special presentation will also be given by historic architect John Collins - member of the Town of Oyster Bay Landmarks Commission and President of Raynham Hall. Mr. Collins will lead a brief discussion on how the maintenance and proper renovation of historic properties helps to sustain and attract appropriate businesses in a downtown, highlighting specific projects he has had an opportunity to work on in and around Oyster Bay.

For all individuals concerned about local property values, the economic vitality of our downtown, and Oyster Bay's future - this is an event not to be missed!

Oyster Bay Goes Green

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 19:35:00 +0000

Oyster Bay Goes Green with New Rain Garden

by Amy Mandelbaum and Mark A. Tedesco

Originally posted on "Greening the Apple: EPA's New York City Blog"

January 2015

The newly installed rain garden at Oyster Bay’s Western Waterfront will capture, treat, and infiltrate polluted stormwater runoff before entering nearby Oyster Bay, and eventually Long Island Sound. Photo credit: Amy Mandelbaum, New York Sea Grant/ Long Island Sound Study.

Did you ever stop to think where water goes after it leaves your downspout? If you’re like most people, once stormwater is out of sight, it’s out of mind. Most likely, the stormwater rushes down your driveway, onto the street, and to the nearest storm drain. If you don’t live in the Big, I mean, Green Apple, then that drain goes directly to your local waterway, whether it be a lake, creek, river, bay, estuary, or even the ocean. So, what’s the big deal?

Well, that stormwater isn’t so clean by the time it makes it to your local waterway, as it picks up litter, nutrients, and plenty of other things along the way. This polluted stormwater runoff goes directly into the water without having a chance to be cleaned.

So, what can we do about it? That’s where green infrastructure comes into play. Green infrastructure is essentially mimicking what nature did before we started building gray infrastructure, such as gutters, roads, pipes, etc. Out of the many green infrastructure practices, one of the best for filtering polluted stormwater runoff is a rain garden: a shallow, vegetated basin that captures, treats, and infiltrates polluted stormwater runoff within a day. It is designed to treat the first inch of rain, which is the most polluted, and the plants, soil, and mulch filter the polluted stormwater runoff before it enters your local waterway.

The Town of Oyster Bay realized the need to redirect the polluted stormwater runoff from the roadway along the waterfront before going into nearby Oyster Bay, a Long Island Sound Stewardship Area, and eventually Long Island Sound. The Town sought and received a Long Island Sound Futures Fund grant to install a rain garden, all while educating the local community. The rain garden was installed in October, with assistance from other local organizations and volunteers. As part of the project, a corresponding rain garden training program was offered for homeowners, municipal officials, and landscape professionals in November. This rain garden now serves as a demonstration to the local community and its visitors of a green infrastructure practice that can be easily incorporated into the landscape.

So, the next time it rains, I hope you take a closer look at your downspout.

If your town would like assistance mitigating the effects of stormwater runoff, contact your local Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO) office in New York or Connecticut.

About the Authors: Amy Mandelbaum is the New York Outreach Coordinator for the Long Island Sound Study. She works for New York Sea Grant in Stony Brook, NY. She received her Ed.M. in science education in 2012 and a B.S. in environmental science in 2007 from Rutgers University.

Mark Tedesco is director of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Long Island Sound Office. Mr. Tedesco is responsible for supporting implementation of a Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan for Long Island Sound, approved in 1994 by the Governors of New York and Connecticut and the EPA Administrator, in cooperation with federal, state, and local government, private organizations, and the public. Mr. Tedesco received his M.S. in marine environmental science in 1986 and a B.S in biology in 1982 from Stony Brook University.

Editor's Note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author. They do not reflect EPA policy, endorsement, or action, and EPA does not verify the accuracy or science of the contents of the blog.