Dear Fellow Chamber Members and Residents of the Massapequas,
After what felt like an endless stretch of snowstorms and the recent blizzard, I think many of us are more than ready to say goodbye to winter. I’ll admit, I’m definitely someone who prefers the warmer weather, so I’m looking forward to the days ahead when we can trade our snow boots for flip flops and start getting outside again. Having raised my two boys here in Massapequa, some of my favorite memories have always been the community events that bring our neighbors together. As we head into March, the Chamber has already been busy recognizing the people who make our community so special.
We recently honored our local heroes at our Annual Firefighters of the Year Awards Luncheon, where we had the privilege of recognizing outstanding local firefighters from the Massapequa and North Massapequa Fire Departments. Their dedication and service to our community are truly commendable, and we thank them for their bravery and commitment. A special thank you to Investment Insight Wealth Management for sponsoring this wonderful event.
Congratulations to our well-deserving honorees: From the Massapequa Fire Department, Ex-Captain and Department Chaplain Ben Diventi(Engine Co#1). From the North Massapequa Fire Department, Firefighter John Gennardo(Ladder Co #1) and Fire Medic Stephanie Seltzer of Engine Company #3.
We are thrilled to host our Second Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The parade route will kick off 11am and begin at Broadway and Jerusalem Avenue and proceed south on Broadway to Veterans Boulevard.
With only a few short weeks away, we invite all Chamber member businesses, Massapequa schools, and community organizations to march and participate in what we hope will become a cherished annual tradition. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our vibrant community, showcase local pride, and bring people together in the spirit of unity and festivity.
We are honored to have Brian Kilmeade of FOX News, a longtime Massapequa resident, as our Grand Marshal for this special event. Let’s make this another memorable milestone for our town. A sincere thank you to all of our sponsors, especially our Main Event Sponsor, Embassy Diner, for your generosity and continued support.
Finally, please mark your calendars for the Annual Massapequa Community Street Festival on Sunday, June 7 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on lower Broadway in Massapequa. This much-anticipated community event features delicious food, great music, exciting prizes, fantastic vendors with unique finds, and fun family activities for all ages.
Calling all vendors—don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your business! Bring your friends and family and get ready to make some unforgettable memories. Special thanks to Event Chairperson and Past President Keith Wilson, along with Vice-Chairs Sal Polito and Greg Massimi, for all their hard work in organizing this wonderful event.
On a personal note, we extend our heartfelt condolences to our First Vice President Sal Polito on the passing of his brother, Frank Polito. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sal and his family during this difficult time. We also extend our sincere condolences to past board member Howard Ritzer on the loss of his mother Barbara Ritzer. Howard served many years on our Board of Directors, and we keep him and his family in our thoughts as well.
As we continue through 2026, I look forward to a year filled with collaboration, growth, and shared success. Our Chamber remains committed to supporting businesses, fostering connections, and strengthening our local economy. Your participation and dedication make all the difference, and I am grateful to be on this journey with such an incredible community.
All the Best,
Robin Hepworth
President
Massapequa Chamber of Commerce