Letters

Southampton Press / Opinion / Letters / 2411712
Dec 8, 2025

Many Thanks

On December 3, the Hampton Bays Beautification Association celebrated its 40th anniversary with a Holiday Luncheon and Awards Ceremony at Oakland’s Restaurant in Hampton Bays. Special thanks to Chairpersons Grace Daly and Madeline O’Keefe for arranging a lovely event.

Congratulations to Barbara Skelly and M.J. Spinella, who received the HBBA 2025 “Angel of the Year” awards.

The HBBA 2025 Community Appreciation Award was presented to Gilbert Tirado of GM Painting, for his service and many contributions to HBBA, and the 2025 HBBA Beautification Award was presented to James Maguire of James Maguire Antiques, for a beautiful store.

Special thanks to Chairman Jack O’Keefe, Merry Warner of Mother Earth Landscaping Design, Tom Maloney of Shinnecock Hardware for suppling all the lights we decorate with, and V. Allegretta Electric and Steve Bentza and his team for their efforts in lighting all the large Christmas trees in town. Thanks to all the friends of HBBA and businesses for supporting our holiday fund.

Last, but certainly not least, a special note of gratitude to the HBBA officers, Madeline O’Keefe, Valerie Zuccarelli and Ellen Zimmerman, and directors, Grace Daly, Monica Freeman, Fran Bauerfeind, Jean Waters and Kathy Glaser, and to all those dedicated HBBA volunteers who have assisted throughout the year. Special thanks to Garden Party Committee, Nancy Galya and Richard Glanzer, Barbara Skelly, and M.J. Spinella.

I thank you all for your commitment, time, dedication and talents. It has been a joy working with all of you. Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season.

HBBA is on winter recess January through March. Have a wonderful winter, and we will see you next spring, on April 6, 2026. Like us on Facebook.

Susan von Freddi Gassman

President

Hampton Bays Beautification Assocation