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

Making Waves in Oyster Bay

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

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OAKCLIFF SAILING CENTER

4 South Street, The Great Room

Oyster Bay, New York 11771

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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!

Project Clean Sweep: Downtown Oyster Bay

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.

Thank you for making Our End of the Season Benefit a Success!

On the night of September 17th the Creek Beach Club was hopping with supporters of the Oyster Bay Main Street Association as sponsors, guests, and board members got together for the Association's second End of the Season Benefit.  The benefit - organized by board members Tracy Dellomo, John Bonifacio, Henry Clark, Kyle Piechucki and Alex Urdea with support from Executive Director Meredith Maus - sought to raise funds for OBMSA's programs and initiatives in the year to come.

In his welcome to the crowd, the President of OBMSA, John Bonifacio, highlighted some past initiatives of the organization including the design, purchase, and installation of 120 new street signs for the downtown; beautification efforts including the purchase of 16 new street lamps for South Street; and our successful advocacy and fundraising for the preservation of the Trousdell House.  After thanking the crowd for their support he highlighted some new initiatives the organization is trying to fund, including: 

• hiring an individual to pick up loose debris in the downtown to combat the growing problem of garbage;
• incorporating new neighborhoods and streets with a second wave of our newly designed street signs; and
• continuing to advocate for historic buildings in the downtown, with a specific focus on the Mill Pond House and Snouder's Corner Drug Store.

We cannot thank all of our supporters enough - for those who were able to join us and those who sent their well wishes.

As is the case with everything we do, we could not have done this without you!

Thank you!

Dancing in the Street Happening in the Hamlet of Oyster Bay!

FIRST NIGHT OF “DANCING IN THE STREET”ATTRACTS LARGE CROWD

Oyster Bay, NY—On Friday evening, July 11, under a full moon, the streets in downtown Oyster Bay around the Bandstand were transformed into an inviting dance floor.  The Oyster Bay Main Street Association kicked off their fourth season of “Dancing in the Street,” once again sponsored by BMW of Oyster Bay.  More than 130 participants, of all ages and all levels of dancing ability, both singles and couples, took to the street as the music filled the summer night air.  DJ Louis del Prete, back again by popular demand, played and sang all types of songs, from Latin to rock, from the crooners of the 40s right up to today’s hip-hop artists.  His line dance instruction had everyone bounding out of their chairs to get a spot on the floor.  It was an evening of fun for all.

OBMSA Promotions Chair Diane Meltzer announced that this free event is one of the organization’s community building/downtown revitalization efforts.  They will continue for the next two Fridays, July 18 and 25, from 7-9 p.m. 

Registration OPEN - 2014 OBMSA Garden Tour!

OYSTER BAY GARDEN TOUR SPRINGS BACK BETTER THAN EVER!

Register Now!

The Gold Coast of Long Island’s North Shore springs forth once again as the Oyster Bay Main Street Association presents its 3rd Annual Garden Tour. The Garden Tour returns with even more vigor after a one year hiatus inflicted by Superstorm Sandy to present enchanting gardens to all budding horticulturists and backyard gardeners alike.  The tour will take place on Friday, June 13th from 10:00am-4:00pm. Registration is available online and check-in will occur at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay. Rain date is Monday, June 16^th.

Garden Tour co-coordinators, Colleen McKean and Danielle Olesen have spent the past two years scouring Nassau County for intriguing locations and all are sure to impress.  This year’s event will include a mapped journey to four different locations, which will include private gardens in Locust Valley, Mill Neck, and a home in Oyster Bay that features its own Little League field. The most unique location on the itinerary however, is The Locust Valley Cemetery.  While it might seem an unconventional choice for the Garden Tour it is, in reality, an exceptional location designed by world famous landscape architect, Fredrick Law Olmstead, the creator of New York City’s Central Park.

“We are thrilled to offer the tour once again this year,” says Colleen McKean, co-coordinator of the Garden Tour.  Last year’s event was cancelled due to the fact that much of Long Island was completely devastated by Sandy’s wrath and most of the gardens that we had hoped to feature on our tour were totally ravaged by the storm.  We had no choice but to cancel and hope that this year the gardens would be back stronger than ever,” she states.

Danielle Olesen, co-coordinator of the event and OBMSA Board member says, “After walking the grounds of the gardens on this year’s program, I am sure that the tour will exceed the expectations of our visitors.  Everyone from amateur to experienced gardeners will find something to enjoy!”

The inaugural and secondary years of the Garden Tour each attracted over 100 participants.  Due to the overwhelming amount of positive feedback from participants, the OBMSA is confident that the number will be closer to 150 this year.

  

After viewing the gardens, visitors will gather for a luncheon catered by Periwinkles Café at the Hay Barn located in Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park.  Tickets will cost $85 and will include the tour, luncheon and parking at the Planting Fields.  There is also a “tour only” option available for $60.  Tickets are available for purchase through the OBMSA website, www.oysterbaymainstreet.org.  Purchase yours early for an event that is sure to become a perennial favorite!

The proceeds of the garden tour will benefit the Oyster Bay Main Street Association and its mission to enhance and promote an attractive and thriving downtown while preserving the historic integrity of Oyster Bay.  For more information, please call the Oyster Bay Main Street Association at 516-922-6982 or visit us on the web at www.oysterbaymainstreet.org.  You can also find us on facebook at “Historic Oyster Bay” and follow us on Twitter@oysterbayny.

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Danielle Olesen

Oyster Bay Main Street Association

Hand-Stitched Hamlet in Oyster Bay!

Oyster Bay Main Street Association Executive Director Resigns After Four Years of Service

Isaac D. Kremer downtown.
Credit: Danielle Finkelstein/Newsday

Oyster Bay, New York – Nearly four years to the day since he first arrived, Isaac D. Kremer announced that he will be leaving the Oyster Bay Main Street Association where he served as Executive Director to assume a new role with the leading historic preservation organization in Austin, Texas.

“These past four years have provided a remarkable opportunity for personal and professional growth,” Kremer said. “The Main Street Association is now more focused on the historic preservation aspect of their mission than at any time ever before, and they now have the resources to carry out that mission.”

During his tenure several major historic preservation and building renovation projects were undertaken and completed, most notably the restoration of the historic Octagon Hotel. Theodore Roosevelt ran his campaign for Governor from this building and was a frequent guest. Close to another dozen projects followed, resulting in creation of new residential and commercial units downtown.

Several major State and Federal Grants were secured. This included $700,000 through the New York Main Street Grant program, and another $70,000 from the Federal Preserve America program. When private and philanthropic gifts for projects such as the Octagon Hotel and a new interpretive and way-finding signage program are added, the amount raised in support of historic preservation and heritage tourism in Oyster Bay during Kremer’s tenure topped out at nearly $1 million.

Before and after photos of the Octagon Hotel, in 2008 and today. 

Partnerships were an important key to success. Projects with Sagamore Hill National Historic Site helped to highlight the many buildings with Theodore Roosevelt ties in the downtown. Oyster Bay was a founding member of the Gold Coast Mansions Historic Long Island Alliance to market and promote historic sites on Long Island. At the Federal level, Kremer participated in advocacy efforts for historic preservation through membership in Preservation Action and the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Main Street Center. He was also a member of the Rotary Club of Oyster Bay serving as Community Service Chair and President Elect.

The Main Street Association membership has undergone a remarkable transformation and growth over the past four years. The level of member giving reached the highest level in the history of the organization in fiscal year 2011, following upon four consecutive years of growth.

“What this shows is that the level of support for the Main Street organization mission among our members is the strongest it has ever been,” said John Bonifacio, Oyster Bay Main Street Association President. “This is a tribute to Isaac and his tenacity to lift up downtown Oyster Bay, by re-affirming our commitment to historic preservation.”

Dancing in the Street started in 2011.

The success in Oyster Bay is not measured merely by renovated buildings. Several new initiatives were started while Isaac was in Oyster Bay including the Oyster Bay Farmers’ Market, the Sundown Concert Series, Dancing in the Street, and many others. Individually and collectively these helped to attract people downtown once again.

Thirty businesses have opened or expanded in the downtown. Several of these business opened in under-utilized or previously vacant buildings that were upgraded and renovated thanks to State and Federal grants, as well as significant private investment.

Renderings from 1913 of "Hillside," a house at 198 East Main Street awaiting restoration.

This is a pattern that will hopefully continue moving forward. There are several large-scale projects such as restoration of the Hillside mansion (formerly the Trousdell House on East Main Street), as well as restoration of the Snouder’s Drug Store, and the Oyster Bay Long Island Railroad Station that will continue. By conservative estimates, close to $10 million in active or pending projects are underway that add to the over $30 million of investment made over the past decade.

“None of our success in Oyster Bay would have been possible without the support of the Oyster Bay Community Foundation, the Bahnik Foundation, and, most importantly, the time, passion, energy, and commitment of our Board of Directors and Members,” Kremer said. He added that on a personal level, “Oyster Bay gave me the greatest possible gift – I met my wife here and we have two beautiful sons. This is the legacy that I will forever be proudest of.”

Despite leaving, Kremer will seek to maintain a connection with Oyster Bay by continuing to advocate for support of revitalization of downtown areas across Long Island. Further, he will maintain his ties with the Underhill Burying Ground in Lattingtown, where Captain John Underhill was buried in 1672. Underhill helped to settle Oyster Bay in the 1650’s, and Kremer married his wife in Oyster Bay 350 years after Captain John Underhill married his wife in the same place.

Kremer hopes to come back a couple of times a year and to keep track of continued change and improvement in Oyster Bay. “Nothing would please me more than being able to stay at a bed and breakfast in a beautifully restored historic building near the downtown, and see Oyster Bay fully realize its potential to become one of the leading and most highly regarded small towns in America. The home town of Theodore Roosevelt deserves nothing less,” Kremer said.

In lieu of any gifts, Kremer has asked that financial contributions be made, in his name, to the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, P.O. Box 116, Oyster Bay, NY 11771.

OBMSA Annual Meeting Podcast, January 26, 2012

For those who were not among the 100 or so people who attended the Annual Meeting of the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, on January 26, 2012, at the Life Enrichment Center at Oyster Bay, or for those who want to relive all of the wonderful moments of that meeting, a podcast of that meeting is available below.

We encourage you to read our Annual Report for 2011. In it you will find updates on our work in the past year, financial report, and four goals we have for upcoming years.

These goal include improving Fireman's Field, upgrading Townsend Park where the bandstand is located, continue our ongoing program of facade and sign improvements, and install interpretive and way-finding signage throughout the downtown.


For past OBMSA meetings, please visit:

• OBMSA 2010 Annual Meeting, September 2010
• OBMSA 2009 Annual Meeting, September 2009
• OBMSA 2008 Annual Meeting, October 2008

Oyster Bay Main Street Annual Meeting on January 26, 7pm!

           

Oyster Bay, New York – Over a decade has passed since the Oyster Bay Main Street Association officially received its charter on September 28, 2001. Since that time downtown Oyster Bay has been transformed for the better. In the past decade over $30 million of public and private investment has been made in the downtown. This has helped to support 57 business start-ups, over 80% which are still open today. Over 60 façade and signs have been improved, with many of these receiving OBMSA support.

                To celebrate these changes to downtown Oyster Bay, Main Street is planning an Annual Meeting for January 26, 2012, from 7pm-9pm at The Life Enrichment Center at Oyster Bay (formerly Doubleday Babcock Senior Center), 45 East Main Street. Many people involved in the founding and the growth and development of Main Street will be present. A special panel discussion on the “Future of Oyster Bay” will be held, echoing a report of the same title published in 1999 that helped to get the Main Street idea in Oyster Bay started.

John Bonifacio, President,
Oyster Bay Main Street

                Guests planning to attend the Annual Meeting are encouraged to RSVP.

                Oyster Bay Main Street President John Bonifacio speaking of the meeting said: “I can imagine no better time than our 10 year anniversary to look back at our past accomplishments, while also sharing a positive and proactive vision for our future.”

                A blog has been created, to provide an overview of positive changes that have been made to Oyster Bay over the past decade. This may be accessed at: http://futureofoysterbay.blogspot.com/.

Four New Initiatives Will be Announced

                At the Annual Meeting four new initiatives will be announced. These will be included in an Annual Report. The report distributed to members who register or renew their membership at the meeting or in advance. One of these initiatives includes a façade and sign improvement fund.

                Oyster Bay Main Street Vice-President, Design Chair, and practicing Architect Henry Clark said: “It has long been an aspiration to have a fund for building improvements that Main Street controls. We are now fortunate to have this thanks to the generosity of our many donors.”

                The new fund will assist with façade and sign improvement funds downtown. Projects receiving funding will be asked to follow the Oyster Bay Design Guidelines available on the Main Street website. This fund will provide up to 75% of the total project costs not to exceed $1,000 for sign improvements downtown. Even greater support is available for façade improvements in eligible buildings.

                The first business to already benefit from this program was Funni Business, a toy store which recently opened at 27 Audrey Avenue. Those seeking funding should request and submit an Application available in the Main Street office in the Oceanic House at 21 West Main Street.

Before and after photo of the Oceanic House, 21 West Main St.

New Office in the Oceanic House

                On October 1, the Oyster Bay Main Street program officially opened a new office in the Oceanic House. President John Bonifacio speaking of this location said, “The Oceanic House and the loving restoration by its owners exemplifies the sort of improvements that Main Street seeks to encourage in downtown Oyster Bay. This building not only affords us an excellent office space but also powerfully expresses our mission to enhancing an attractive and thriving downtown, while maintaining its historic integrity.”

New Members Sought

                In preparation for the Annual Meeting on January 26, an Annual Appeal was sent out to members. Given the 10 year anniversary of the organization, a special request was made for returning members and new members to consider making a three-year pledge to the Association. As an incentive for members who contribute $500 or greater, they will receive a beautiful aerial photograph of Oyster Bay framed and signed by photographer Stephen Mastrorocco. Main Street Treasurer Claude Bahnik said, “This is just a small way for us to recognize and thank people for their generosity.”

                For those wishing more information about the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, membership, sponsorship opportunities, or the upcoming Annual Meeting on January 26, please call (516) 922-6982 or visit www.oysterbaymainstreet.org.


For past OBMSA meetings, please visit:

• OBMSA 2010 Annual Meeting, September 2010
• OBMSA 2009 Annual Meeting, September 2009
• OBMSA 2008 Annual Meeting, October 2008

Harvest Regatta Celebration Returns on October 7

Oyster Bay, New York— The Oyster Bay Main Street Association and Oakcliff Sailing Center are joining forces again to host the Harvest Regatta Celebration on Friday, October 7, 2011. Last year's smashingly successful event will be duplicated. At 6:30pm a strolling dinner will be held in the quaint clubhouse and grounds of the Oakcliff Sailing Center at 2 South Street in Oyster Bay. Festivities will continue next door with live music and dancing, a unique silent auction, and showing of the work of the talented local artist Kirk Larsen that will be available for purchase.

The next day the signature Harvest Regatta will again take place in conjunction with the final Fall Classics Race. Costumes are strongly recommended. Regatta goers will have a chance to retrieve pumpkins from the water while sailing to win special prizes.



Several area restaurants will be providing food for the strolling dinner portion of the event. These include Coach Grill and Tavern, Christina’s Epicure, Jack Halyards American Bar & Grill, Luce Restaurant, Saggio’s, and Sweet Tomato. Bringing the “harvest” to the Harvest Regatta Celebration will be DelPozzo Foods from East Norwich. DelPozzo Foods participates in the Oyster Bay Farmers’ Market that is held downtown every Friday from 10am-4pm through October 28. They will bring their pastas, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, marinades, and pasta sauces to offer partygoers a taste of the farmers' market.

There are many businesses to thank for their role adding to the festivities. A wonderful selection of wine, beer, and specialty drinks will be provided. Wine has been donated by Testa Wines of Oyster Bay and Massican vineyard of Napa Valley. Mt. Gay cocktails will flow from the Boat Shed once again. Dodds & Eder has generously donated decorative plants for the night of the event. ENGEL & VÖLKERS of Locust Valley has sponsored printing of the event program.

Special silent auction prizes will include a sunset sail for four with Oakcliff Sailing Center and dinner at Jack Halyards American Bar & Grill; a house membership to Sagamore Yacht Club; an overnight stay at Oheka Castle; and various other fitness, health, spa visits, and dining auction items that people may bid on.

New this year is a ‘pick a prize’ raffle with a brunch for two at Rothmann’s, dinner for two at Wild Honey, and gift certificates to a number of area restaurants including Coach, Luce, Cafe al Dente, Canterbury's Oyster Bar and Grill, Serata, and Angelina's. If health and wellness is what you are looking for, maybe you can win a facial at Blue Water Spa or Shangri-La Spa, or treatments at Healthy Living Therapeutic. Promote your personal fitness with gift certificates from Bliss Studios and Evolution. Finally, fill your shopping needs with a gift certificate to Dodds & Eder, a gift basket from Chrison & Bellina, gift basket from Bon Vie, and a Utrecht gift bag and three complementary lessons at The Teaching Studios of Art.

The Oyster Bay Main Street Association 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. Since 2001, we have been responsible for helping to attract over $30 million of investment to downtown Oyster Bay. This has led to the renovation of over 60 buildings, and the start of 57 new businesses in the downtown area. We manage a series of events throughout the year meant to promote the downtown and improve the quality of life including the Oyster Bay Farmers’ Market, the Oyster Bay Sundown Concert Series, and, new this year, Dancing in the Street.

Oakcliff Sailing Center was formed in 2010, to raise the levels of sailors and competitive sailing in the U.S. The Center is physically comprised of an America’s Cup-like campus in downtown Oyster Bay. The clubhouse, boat yard, and climate-controlled buildings house boat and sail storage, as well as rigging, composites, winch and hardware workshops. All of this is in close proximity to the commuter train station and a hundred yards from the Center’s deep-water docks and moorings.

Tickets are $75 in advance and $100 at the door. Tickets may be purchased securely online by visiting www.oakcliffsailing.org. Tickets may also be purchased by check, making this payable to OBMSA and sending this to PO Box 116, Oyster Bay, NY 11771. All proceeds are tax deductible and will jointly benefit the Oyster Bay Main Street Association and the Oakcliff Sailing Center.

Volunteers are needed to help the night of the event. For more information about sponsorship, tickets, or to volunteer please call (516) 922-6982 (516) 922-6982 or write oysterbaymsa@gmail.com.

“OYSTER FLIX” Ready for its Next Close-up, Movies the 2nd Friday of Each Month

Second Series of Three Films is Announced



The first three evenings of the new “Oyster Flix” movie series attracted many filmgoers eager to see the return of movies to downtown Oyster Bay. The premiere offering of “Sabrina” in February, the second presentation“The Great Gatsby” in March, and the third offering of “North by Northwest” in April all played to enthusiastic audiences. Now it is time for the second series of three special film evenings.

Continuing with our theme of films in some way connected to Long Island, OBMSA is proud to announce the next series of three, all held on the second Friday of the month:

• May 13—“A New Leaf” RSVP on Facebook!


• June 10—“Zelig” RSVP on Facebook!


• July 8—“The Wind & the Lion” RSVP on Facebook!

The time is 7:30 p.m. at the OBMSA office (aka Oyster Flix Theatre), 17 Audrey Avenue. Come early to get some popcorn—provided by Bob Liebert of Gooseberry Grove—and candy and a good seat; stay late to participate in a discussion after the film. There is a $5 suggested donation per person at the door.

Contact www.oysterbaymainstreet.org or 516-922-6982 for more information.

OYSTER FLIX Ready for Third Movie Night Downtown, April 8, 7:30pm

OYSTER FLIX Ready for Third Movie Night Downtown
Second Series of Three Films is Announced


The first two evenings of the new “Oyster Flix” movie series attracted many filmgoers eager to see the return of movies to downtown Oyster Bay. The premiere offering of “Sabrina” in February, and the second event “The Great Gatsby” in March, both played to enthusiastic audiences. Now it is time for the third presentation.
On Friday, April 8, the Oyster Bay Main Street Association (OBMSA) will be screening “North by Northwest.” The time is 7:30 p.m. at the OBMSA office (aka Oyster Flix Theatre), 17 Audrey Avenue. Come early to get some popcorn—provided by Bob Liebert of Gooseberry Grove—and candy and a good seat; stay late to participate in a discussion moderated by film historian Irene Porco Eckert. There is a $5 suggested donation per person at the door.

And continuing with our theme of films in some way connected to Long Island, OBMSA is proud to announce the next series of three, all held on the second Friday of the month:

May 13—“A New Leaf”
RSVP on Facebook Today!


June 10—“Zelig”
RSVP on Facebook Today!


July 8—“The Wind & the Lion”
RSVP on Facebook Today!

Contact www.oysterbaymainstreet.org or 516-922-6982 for more information.

Eve Griffon to be Surprise Guest at Oyster Flix, 3/11, 7:30pm

Photo by Ellen Ermanovics
“The green light” at the end of Daisy’s dock will be an invitation to all to watch F. Scott Fitzgerald’s tale of 1920 society life on Long Island. Eve Griffon will be on hand for a screening of The Great Gatsby this Friday, 7:30pm at 17 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay. Her husband, Bob Griffon, Sr., was one of the many technicians from Long Island who worked on this film during the summer of 1974. The filming of The Great Gatsby took place on Long Island and in Newport, Rhode Island.

The cast included Robert Redford, Mia Farrow, Sam Waterson [before he worked on Law & Order], Bruce Dern, Karen Black, and Lois Childes. They loved making this film, as the sets and costumes were all unique. Bob Sr.’s movie resume include The Exorcist, Godfather I & II, Saturday Night Fever, Tootsie, and The World According to Garp. Today the Griffon Family is still making movies in New York and on Long Island.

Please come to Oyster Bay on March 11th and enjoy the show!


Friday, March 11 ~ “The Great Gatsby” (1974)
RSVP on Facebook today! (and help get the word out to others)

Friday, April 8 ~ “North by Northwest” (1959)
RSVP on Facebook today! (and help get the word out to others)

Time: 7:30pm

Where: 17 Audrey Avenue, downtown Oyster Bay

Fee: $5 suggested donation /per person at the door

Movies Return to Downtown Oyster Bay, The Great Gatsby, 3/11, 7:30pm

Movie goers came out in droves to see the screening of the classic film "Sabrina" on Friday, February 11. This was not just any ordinary theater. The offices of the Oyster Bay Main Street Association at 17 Audrey Avenue were transformed into a theater. It was the first movie screening in Oyster Bay since at least the 1970s when the Lyric Theater, also on Audrey Avenue, was closed.


Photo from the first Oyster Flix screening

Aromatic accents from the old fashioned popcorn maker on loan from Gooseberry Grove helped create a cozy environment for the silver screen buffs. The movie was the first in the OBMSA’s "Oyster Flix" series of classic movies filmed on or about Long Island.

The series continues on Friday, March 11th with our second movie "The Great Gatsby." A special treat is planned for that evening: Long Island resident Eve Griffin is the wife of the late Robert Griffon. He was the prop master for many famous movies, including "The Great Gatsby"! Mrs. Griffon has graciously offered to present a little talk before the movie is shown on the 11th. She will relate fascinating true stories about her and her husband's time in Newport with Robert Redford, Mia Farrow, and Sam Waterston, while "The Great Gatsby" was being filmed. She will even display actual props from the movie, that viewers can then have fun looking for while they watch the film!

At the conclusion of the movie, there will again be a "movie buff" speaker to spark discussion about the film. The evening is called for 7:30 p.m., but come earlier to meet your fellow movie lovers, have a drink with your popcorn, and get a good seat!

RSVP for "The Great Gatsby" on Facebook today (and see who else is coming)!

The third movie in the Oyster Flix series will be Friday, April 8th, when "North by Northwest" will be shown.

This film series is one of the initiatives of OBMSA’s Promotion Committee. The goal of this committee is to “create and support activities and events to generate excitement, local pride, and commerce in the historic downtown. Other Promotion initiatives include the "Oyster Bay Farmers’ Market" and "Oyster Bay Sundown" providing free outdoor concerts every First Thursday from June to September.

The Oyster Bay Main Street Association is dedicated to enhancing and promoting an attractive and thriving downtown, while maintaining its historic integrity. OBMSA is a 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit using the national Main Street Approach® to downtown revitalization. For more information or to become a member please visit www.oysterbaymainstreet.org or call (516) 922-6982.

Program for Octagon Hotel Dedication, Thursday, Dec. 2 at 4pm ANNOUNCED

Thursday, December 2, 2010, at 4pm
67 West Main Street, Oyster Bay

The Octagon Hotel is rapidly nearing completion of a $2.5 million rehabilitation. This 1850’s building that Theodore Roosevelt ran for Governor of New York State from will house six apartments and up to three retail units. Please join us for the dedication and ribbon cutting on December 2 at 4pm. Building tours and a reception with free food and drink will follow. RSVP for the event on Facebook and share this with your friends so we can have the best sized crowd possible. Thanks and see you there!


The Program

Welcome and Introduction………………………………………………… 4:00pm
John Bonifacio, President, Oyster Bay Main Street Association

Greetings from State of New York………………………………………. 4:05pm
Hon. Charles D. Lavine, Assembly District 13, State of New York
Hon. Michael Montesano, Assembly District 15, State of New York

Greetings from Nassau County…………………………………………… 4:08pm
Hon. Edward P. Mangano, County Executive, Nassau County
Hon. Judy Jacobs, Legislative District 16, Nassau County

Greetings from Town of Oyster Bay…………………………………… 4:10pm
Hon. John Venditto, Supervisor, Town of Oyster Bay
Hon. Steven L. Labriola, Town Clerk, Town of Oyster Bay

Comments from Members of the Project Team……………………. 4:15pm
Lou Baldino, Architect, Lou Baldino Architects

Comments from Partners…………………………………………………… 4:20pm
Alexandra Wolfe, Society for the Preservation of LI Antiquities
Natalie Naylor, President, Nassau County Historical Society
Ellen Roché, Immediate Past President, OBMSA

Blessing of the Building………………………………………………………. 4:25pm
Peter Casparian, Rector, Christ Church of Oyster Bay

Ribbon Cutting & Dedication………………………………………………. 4:30pm

Building tours and reception with free food and drink to follow.

For more information, please contact the Oyster Bay Main Street Association at (516) 922-6982 or visit www.oysterbaymainstreet.org.

Octagon Hotel Dedication & Ribbon Cutting, 12/2, 4pm

The Octagon Hotel is rapidly nearing completion of a $2.5 million rehabilitation. This 1850’s building that Theodore Roosevelt ran for Governor of New York State from will house six apartments and up to three retail units. Please join us for the dedication and ribbon cutting on December 2 at 4pm. Building tours and a reception with free food and drink will follow. RSVP on Facebook and share this with your friends so we can have the best sized crowd possible. Thanks and see you there!

RSVP on Facebook Today!

The Oyster Bay Main Street Association over the past decade has generated over $10 million of investment and improved over 40 buildings. We are the only Non-Profit on Long Island to follow the Main Street Approach® to downtown revitalization.

Podcast of Oyster Bay Main Street Association Annual Meeting, 9/16/2010

The Annual Meeting for the Oyster Bay Main Street Association was held Thursday, September 16, 2010. Those in attendance enjoyed hearing updates on the work of the Main Street program, and guest speakers from the Town of Oyster Bay and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Phyllis Harrington. The Keynote Speaker was Nancy Melius-Murton from the Gold Coast Mansions Historic Long Island Alliance and Director of Marketing at Oheka Castle. The meeting was held in the historic Octagon Hotel, at 67 West Main Street in downtown Oyster Bay. For more information, please visit http://www.oysterbaymainstreet.org/.

For past OBMSA meetings, please visit:

• OBMSA 2010 Member Meeting, April 2010
• OBMSA 2009 Annual Meeting, September 2009
• OBMSA 2008 Annual Meeting, October 2008

Harvest Regatta Celebration Announced for October 8 in Oyster Bay

Oakcliff Sailing Center Clubhouse, 2 South St in Oyster Bay

Oyster Bay, New York— The Oyster Bay Main Street Association and the Oakcliff Sailing Center wish to invite the community to the first ever Harvest Regatta Celebration on October 8, 2010. The event will begin at 6:30pm with a strolling dinner in the quaint clubhouse and grounds of Oakcliff Sailing Center at 2 South Street in Oyster Bay. Festivities will continue later in the night next door with live music and dancing, a unique silent auction, and showing of the work of two talented local artists: Kirk Larsen and Bill Jonas. The Harvest Regatta to be held the following day (on Saturday) will showcase Oyster Bay’s beautiful classic yachts in their final race of the season.

Tickets are $75 in advance and $100 at the door. Online registration for the event is possible by visiting www.oakcliffsailing.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Sponsors will receive recognition in the event journal and marketing materials.

Your contribution will help to support the important work of the Oyster Bay Main Street Association. Over the past decade OBMSA has improved over 40 facades and signs, over 20 businesses have opened, and several major grants have been attracted to improve downtown Oyster Bay. Several new events have also been started including the Oyster Bay Sundown concert series and the Oyster Bay Farmers’ Market that have been very successful at attracting new people downtown.

Oakcliff Sailing Center which will also benefit from the event was formed in 2010, to raise the levels of sailors and competitive sailing in the U.S. The center is based in Oyster Bay and has made an overwhelmingly positive impact on the village in the brief time they have been here.

Several businesses have generously provided their support. Those providing food will include Canterbury Ales Oyster Bar & Grill, Christina’s Epicure, Jack Halyards American Bar & Grill, Saggios, and Tex Mex Grill. Sagamore Graphics of Oyster Bay has sponsored printing of the invitation. Dodds & Eder has generously donated decorative plants for the night of the event.

Some of the auction items will include an overnight stay at Oheka Castle, antique and collectible merchandise from Coin Galleries of Oyster Bay, a Sunday bruch for four at Rothmann's Steak House, ballroom dancing lessons at Bliss Studios, a private performance by internationally acclaimed opera singer Anthony Pulgram, and a sail with Oakcliff and dinner at Jack Halyards American Bar & Grill. Gift certificates from AK Salon, Angelina’s of East Norwich, Evolution Fitness, La Pizzetta, Luce Restaurant, Shangri La Spa, The Coach Grill and Tavern, and Wild Honey have also been donated and will be provided for auction.

Tickets may be purchased securely online by visiting http://www.oakcliffsailing.org/. Tickets may also be purchased by check, making this payable to OBMSA and sending this to PO Box 116, Oyster Bay, NY 11771. All proceeds are tax deductible and will jointly benefit the Oyster Bay Main Street Association and the Oakcliff Sailing Center.

Volunteers are needed to help the night of the event. For more information about sponsorship, tickets, or to volunteer please call (516) 922-6982 or write oysterbaymsa@gmail.com.

OBMSA Annual Meeting to be Held at Octagon Hotel, September 16, 7-9pm

Octagon Hotel as it appears today

The Oyster Bay Main Street Association will hold their Annual Meeting on September 16, 2010. The meeting will be held at the historic Octagon Hotel at 67 West Main Street from 7-9pm.

The Keynote Speaker for the meeting will be Nancy Melius-Murton, Director of Marketing at Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York. This historic home of Otto E. Kahn was built between 1917 and 1919. Following a period of neglect, the home was purchased in 1984 by Gary Melius, and since then the estate and gardens have been lovingly restored. Nancy returned to Long Island a few years ago to spend more time with her family and to develop the family business. Subsequently she founded the Gold Coast Mansions Historic Long Island Alliance, which is working to market mansions and historic sites on Long Island.

Over the past decade OBMSA has been responsible for bringing about needed changes in downtown Oyster Bay. Over 40 building renovation projects, parking and public space improvements, and the opening of several new businesses have resulted.

In the past year alone significant results have come from investing the $200,000 New York Main Street grant. Highlights include expansion of Jack Halyard’s American Bar & Grill (formerly Fiddleheads), restoration of the 19th century Brower House on East Main Street across from the Doubleday-Babcock Senior Center, and new signs and awnings for the building housing Coin Galleries of Oyster Bay. Another project, renovation of the Townsend Inn Annex at 9 Audrey Ave has also yielded the first new business recruited – a furniture consignment business called Mill Pond Consignment.

This summer Main Street offered the second season of the popular Oyster Bay Sundown concert series on the First Thursday of each month. And on July 30 the popular and successful Oyster Bay Farmers’ Market was started. The markett will run every Friday through October 8 from noon-6pm by the U.S. Post Office. Thanks to these and other events, more people are discovering every day what Main Street members already know – that we live in a charming and desirable place.

Main Street's collaborative efforts working with other organizations were shown through special events held at Atelier Fine Arts / Studio, The Teaching Studios of Art, and Oakcliff Sailing Center. OBMSA and the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District recently formed a partnership to promote service learning opportunities.

For more information, or to become a member of the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, please visit www.oysterbaymainstreet.org or call (516) 922-6982.