A building was empty at 15 West Marie Street for quite a while. One day, I looked outside and saw plywood being nailed up over the open spaces that took over the front of the building. I found out that custom windows were ordered for replacement of old windows. A brick façade was being applied; gas lines were being installed for a kitchen. Every day something new was being done. A beautiful kitchen was installed in a new restaurant and I could see that the plans allowed patrons to view the kitchen. A wonderful idea. I knew that opening day was almost here when I saw window treatments being hung inside and three burgundy awning window treatments were installed outside.

My favorite decorative and functional items were three outdoor tables with umbrellas and chairs. You can sit in the shade while you eat lunch and appreciate the potted shrubs in clay colored containers, which tend to soften the effects of a lot of concrete. Dinner outside would be wonderful on a hot summer's night.

I thank these new people for coming onto the block. Every store is now occupied and the area looks beautiful. Most walk traffic is coming into the area and our variety of foods is growing every day. I can now walk to Chinese, Japanese, a '50s style luncheonette, Greek, Italian, Indian and so many others. Now, with Afghanistan Choopan open across the street I can have kabobs among other food items. Indeed, we are the land of the plenty.

I was recently able to attend the June 24 ribbon-cutting event for a new restaurant at the Broadway Mall. As I pulled up to the outside entrance I saw the bright white building with cheery red awning treatments and a red neon sign stating it was Johnny Rockets. Nostalgia started to set in as I walked through the doors. There is waffled stainless steel behind the counter, a neon wall clock, metal trimmed tables with matching chairs, old fashioned juke boxes on each table, checkered tiled floors and white light fixtures. I think every school and every hamburger hangout had those white glass shades.

Chamber officers and Town of Oyster Bay Councilwoman Rose Marie Walker held the ribbon cutting event and afterward we all sat down to have something for lunch. Let me tell you, the onion rings are to die for and the chili fries were perfect - soft and fluffy inside and crisp on the outside. My rare hamburger was superb.

As we ate, Staying Alive streamed out of the speakers. More memories came to mind as I watched the staff exit from the kitchen. They danced and sang along with the recording in their bibbed aprons and white hats. They were fantastic. All we needed was Fonzie to make an appearance.

This newest location is the first of its kind on Long Island, being that it is a full-service restaurant with takeout also available. Johnny Rockets whisks their patrons back to a time of simple family fun with all the food and fare reminiscent of the feel-good times of the 1950s. As you walk through the polished chrome doors, not only are you greeted by the singing and dancing waiting staff, but also by the friendly fun atmosphere of a time when a chocolate malt eased the stress of the day.

The décor and ambience will spark your visual senses while the delectable menu of juicy burgers, hand-dipped shakes and delicious salads will give your taste buds a real treat. Other menu items include a variety of sandwiches, onion rings, fries and a full children's menu.

Hicksville was the first choice and a perfect location, according to owners Mary Randazzo and Anthony Randazzo. "It is the perfect blend of family and business and we are happy to bring our product to such a great community," said Mary.

"A restaurant that is appealing to all ages is rare these days and one that accomplishes that, such as Johnny Rockets, brings so much enjoyment to its surrounding community," said Anthony. "Even the youngest patrons are getting in on the fun by having their birthday parties here."

Johnny Rockets at the Broadway Mall is family-owned, operated and staffed. Owners James and Madeline Raymond, Anthony and Erin Randazzo, Thomas and Mary Randazzo, Michael and Anne Randazzo and Jose and Barbara Badillo are so excited to welcome all their new neighbors of Hicksville to come on down see what all the buzz is about. While you are there, try a piece of the true Americana and have a slice of freshly baked apple pie. For more information or hours of operation, call 433-8260. To preview the menu, visit www.johnnyrockets.com.