York State Senator Steve Rhoads welcomed an enthusiastic crowd of community members,
and local leaders from across the 5th Senate District to the official ribbon cutting ceremony of his District Office at 2900 Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown. The new office serves constituents in Bellmore, North Bellmore, Bethpage, East Meadow, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Levittown, Plainview, Merrick, North Merrick, Old Bethpage, Seaford, Wantagh, and parts of Westbury, Woodbury, Jericho, and Syosset.
STAY COOL AS SUMMER WINDS DOWN
Though few people consider the end of summer a cause for celebration, the weather outside need not preclude men and women from enjoying a cool and refreshing beverage. Those who simply can’t say “so long” to summer may want to find a nearby patio, pull up a chair and pour themselves a glass of “Liquid Iron” courtesy of Brian Preston-Campbell’s “Cool Waters” (Harvard Common Press). Not only is the following drink refreshing and cool for those waning hot days before summer officially goes away, but it’s also a great source of iron and calcium.
Makes 6 servings
2 stalks red Swiss chard, chopped
1⁄4 cup chopped spinach leaves
1⁄4 cup chopped purple kale
1 teaspoons loose green tea leaves
6 cups still water
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the chard, spinach, kale, and tea leaves in a blender with 1 cup of the water. Purée until fairly smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher, using a ladle or rubber spatula to extract as much juice as possible. Add the remaining water, stir gently, and serve.
New York State Senator Steve Rhoads welcomed an enthusiastic crowd of community members, families, and local leaders from across the 5th Senate District to the official ribbon cutting ceremony of his District Office at 2900 Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown.
Senator Steve Rhoads Hosts Packed House For District Office Ribbon Cutting
The event was a celebration of civic pride and community connection, drawing overwhelming support and attendance from every corner of the district, underscoring Senator Rhoads’ commitment to being accessible and community focused.
“This office is more than
just a place where legislative work gets done,” said Senator Steve Rhoads. “It’s a community hub—a place where everyone should feel welcome to stop in, say hello, or get help with an issue. I want people to know that my door is always open.”
Local civic leaders, small business owners, disability
advocates, chamber of commerce members, school board members, veterans, first responders, and nonprofit partners were among the many who stopped by to show their support for the new office, which serves constituents in Bellmore, North Bellmore, Bethpage, East Meadow,
Farmingdale, Hicksville, Levittown, Plainview, Merrick, North Merrick, Old Bethpage, Seaford, Wantagh, and parts of Westbury, Woodbury, Jericho, and Syosset.
The opening marks a new chapter in Senator Rhoads’ efforts to stay deeply connected to the people he
represents. Conveniently located in the heart of his Senate District, the new Levittown office serves as an accessible resource for constituents seeking assistance, guidance, or support on state-related matters.
Back By Popular Demand: Senator Rhoads Announces More Dates For 3rd Annual Mobile Office Hour Tour
Following two successful years and over two dozen stops across Senate District 5, Senator Rhoads is bringing his Mobile Office Hours back by popular demand—offering constituents even more opportunities to speak oneon-one with their State Senator at convenient local library locations.
“Accessible leadership means being present, listening, and staying connected to the people you serve,” said Senator Rhoads. “These Mobile Office Hours give me the chance to hear directly from you about the issues that matter most—and that’s what drives my work every day. I’m excited to continue these conversations across the district.”
Appointments are required by calling Senator Rhoads’ District Office at 516-882-0630, though walk-ins will be welcomed if time permits. Dates and times are subject to change without notice so please call Senator Rhoads’ District Office to verify.
Upcoming Mobile Office Hour Dates:
Wednesday, August 27
6:00–8:00 PM
Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library – 999 Old Country Rd, Plainview
Tuesday, September 30
6:00–8:00 PM
Levittown Public Library – 1 Bluegrass Ln, Levittown
Wednesday, October 8 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Seaford Public Library —2234 Jackson Ave # A, Seaford, NY 11783
Saladino And Blakeman Announce
Free $25 Farmers’ Market Coupons For Senior Citizens
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announce that incomeeligible adults aged 60 and over can now receive free $25 coupon booklets from the New York State Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). These coupons can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at authorized farmers’ markets and farm stands.
The $25 Farmers’ Market coupon distribution will take place on Monday, August 11th from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Hicksville Community Center, located at 28 West Carl Street, Hicksville and Thursday, August 21st from 10 AM to 12 PM at the North Massapequa Community Center, located at 214 North Albany Ave., North Massapequa. Coupons will be distributed on a firstcome, first-served basis, with a limit of one booklet per person per year.
Coupons can be used at the Country Fresh Farmingdale Farmers’ Market, located at Village Green, 316 Main Street, Farmingdale, open
“We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for our senior residents,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is an excellent initiative that helps seniors maintain a healthy diet while enjoying the fresh produce our local markets have to offer. It is important for us to provide opportunities that support the well-being of our older adults, and this program does just that by making nutritious food more accessible.”
Sundays from 10 AM to 2 PM (June 1 - November 23), at Deep Roots Farmers’ Market, located at 100 Garvies Point Road, Glen Cove, open Saturdays 9 AM to 1 PM (May 31 –November 1) and at the Seaford Farmers’ Market, located at Seaford LIRR Parking Lot 3, Sunrise Hwy. & Washington St., open Saturdays from 7 AM to 12 PM (June 7December 27).
“By participating in this program, our seniors can enjoy the benefits of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, while supporting the local economy. I encourage all eligible seniors to take advantage of this wonderful program and experience the health benefits of fresh, locally sourced produce,”
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Town Of Oyster Bay’s 2025 Music Under The Stars & Movies By Moonlight
Concerts begin at 8:00 PM unless otherwise noted. No seating prior to 4:00 PM. Pre-movie activities begin at 6:00 PM. Movies begin at sundown. There are no rain facilities. All shows will be held outdoors, weather permitting. For additional information call 797-7925, visit www.oysterbaytown.com or like us on Facebook @TOWNOFOYSTERBAY
AUGUST HAPPENINGS
FRI., AUGUST 8th
SAT., AUGUST 9th
9:30AM-3:00PM
INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD SALE
Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-0221. Rain or Shine.
SAT., AUGUST 9th
10:00AM-9:30PM
Grand Entry: 12 Noon & 7pm
SUN., AUGUST 10th
10:00AM-5:00PM
Grand Entry: 12 Noon
PAUMANAUKE POW-WOW
The Paumanauke Native American Festival Inc., The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA), and the Town of Babylon proudly present the 43rd Paumanauke Pow-Wow at Tanner Park in Copiague. This twoday, family-friendly festival of Native American culture features Indigenous dance and dance competitions, traditional drums, native foods, and plenty of audience participation. For more information contact BACCA: 631-587-3696 / info@babylonarts.org Gerry Goodlin: 516-495-6076
MON., AUGUST 11th
8:15AM-12:15PM
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church 147 Park Ave. in Amityville. August 11 through August 15. Bible lessons, music, games, crafts, snacks and more. It's all FREE. Ages 4-year-old through sixth grade. To register at vbspro.events/p/8265d0. For more information, please call 631-264-0763
MAKE A SUBMISSION!
Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
TUES., AUGUST 12th
11:00AM-4:00PM
31st ANNUAL
CLAM SHUCKING CONTEST
West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition For Long Island, Inc. Shuckin’ Fun in the Sun. Fun For Kids Too! Corn Husking Face Painting. Bay Shore Marina, South Clinton Avenue, Bay Shore. For more information, please call 631-669-7770 Email: info@wibcc.org Website: www.wibcc.org
7:00PM
REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
7150 Republic Airport, Room 201, in Farmingdale. For information call 631752-7707 x6109 or email: contactus@ republicairport.net
SAT., AUGUST 16th
2:00PM
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK SERIES at Brookside Park, W. Sayville
Islip Arts Council and Studio Theater of Long Island Shakespeare Troupe present "Much Ado About Nothing," a comedy by William Shakespeare. This limited engagement will be performed FREE. *Schedule subject to change Shakespeare in the Park is made possible through a grant from the Suffolk County Office of Cultural Affairs. For more information visit Isliparts.org, or call 631-888-3525
SUN., AUGUST 24th
1:00PM-5:00PM OPEN HOUSE
Join Us for the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center's 21st Anniversary Celebration Open House. An amazing day featuring special guest speakers,
introductory meditation sessions, vegetarian cooking demos, yoga demonstrations, live music, a tour of the garden & grounds, an outdoor picnic, and more. Open to all and free of charge. For more information, please call 631-8227979, Infotristate@sos.org. Science of Spirituality Meditation Center, 79 County Line Road, Amityville, NY 11701.
2:00PM
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK SERIES at Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Great River Islip Arts Council and Studio Theater of Long Island Shakespeare Troupe present "Much Ado About Nothing," a comedy by William Shakespeare. This limited engagement will be performed FREE. *Schedule subject to change Shakespeare in the Park is made possible through a grant from the Suffolk County Office of Cultural Affairs. For more information visit Isliparts.org, or call 631-888-3525
WED., AUGUST 27th
5:00PM-8:00PM
DROP-OFF DRUG EVENT
International Overdose Awareness Day. The Lindenhurst Moose Lodge, Lindenhurst Community Cares, CASJ, and Suffolk County Police C.O.P.E. have joined forces to create a united front in preventing addiction and overdose deaths in our community. Please bring your prescription medications for safe disposal to: Lindenhurst Moose Lodge #1421, 883 South Broadway, in Lindenhurst. Anyone who drops oft medicine will receive a raffle ticket for a prize! Together we can make a difference!
Continued From 5
added County Executive Blakeman.
The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and Mobile Farm Stand are sponsored by the Nassau County Office for the Aging, the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets, the New York State Department of Health, the New York State Office for the Aging, and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
To find additional farmers’ markets participating in the SFMNP Coupon Program, please visit: https://agriculture. ny.gov/farmersmarkets. For more information, call the Nassau County Office for the Aging at (516) 2278900.
Listening To Jazz Music
The New Orleans Musicians Clinic reports that listening to jazz music can expand blood vessels by up to 30 percent. Widening of blood vessels increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is important, as the Mayo Clinic notes that unchecked high blood pressure can lead to complications such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and/or dementia.
Tending A Garden In Late Summer
As summer winds down, long stretches of sunlight are dwindling and cooler temperatures are on the horizon. Gardening enthusiasts may wonder how they can manage their backyard gardens as the peak growing season comes to a close. People may not be eager to do much in their gardens come August, particularly because the air may be hot and the dew point high. And spending the final days of summer at the beach or in the pool may take priority. However, late summer is a great time to focus on certain tasks.
Deadheading
Weeding
Weeds can become problematic if they’re allowed to grow unabated. Routinely go into the garden and cull the weeds.
Keep an eye open for pests
According to Garden Smart, caterpillars and beetles may be chewing on garden plants by late summer, and aphids still may be problematic. Handpick insects off of vegetables and ornamental flowers, or use safe sprays for treating these issues.
Many plants look better with the wilted flowers removed. Furthermore, some plants, such as with lilies and roses, will benefit from having spent blooms removed so that no unnecessary energy is drawn away from the roots or bulbs. Research your plants and learn which can benefit from some late-summer deadheading to keep them thriving.
Plant cool weather
vegetables
Many plants will grow well when planted in late summer, according to Homesteading Family. Some such plants include turnips, beets, carrots, kale, chard, mustard greens, and peas. You can begin turning your summer garden, or a portion of it, into a fall and winter garden.
Consider
succession planting
Growing vegetables like beans or peas may be more successful if you try succession planting. This involves sowing new seeds every seven to 10 days to extend the harvest.
Harvesting what’s ready
Pick vegetables that are ready to eat, and remove any plants that have reached the end of their
planter boxes and containers
This is a good time to start changing over summer annuals in containers and planter boxes to those that do well in fall, such as mums, asters, pansies, and goldenrod. There’s plenty of work to be done in the garden come the end of summer.
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Free Online Writing Workshop
(NAPSI)—Famed science fiction authors and judges of the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future contest and professional instructors offer aspiring writers a free online writing workshop. Learn more at www. writersofthefuture. com/register/onlineworkshop and bit.ly/ WOTFWorkshop.
New York Blood Center Launches Fourth Annual “Pint For A Pint” Campaign
New York Blood Center (NYBC) is kicking off its fourth annual “Pint for a Pint” campaign to encourage blood donations during the critical summer months at donor centers through August 31, 2025, all who come to donate at NYBC’s donor centers will receive a voucher for a free beverage or frozen treat at a participating local brewery, pub, or frozen treat shop.
Since its launch in 2022, the “Pint for a Pint” campaign has doubled in size, with more than 50 breweries, pubs, and frozen treat shops across the region coming together to support the critical need for blood donations. This year’s full list of participating establishments can be found at https://www.nybc. org/pint/
“At Newburgh Brewing Company, we take enormous pride in being supportive of our community,” said Paul Halayko, President and COO of Newburgh Brewing Company. “By working with the NYBC through Pint for a Pint, we are thanking folks for doing something selfless and important: donating blood. It’s a way we can ask our community to be supportive of such an important cause, and then reward them with a delicious pint of Newburgh beer!”
Following a sharp drop in donations over the 4th of July holiday, the region’s supply of O- and O+ blood is currently at a critical 1-2 day level, and overall collections are nearly 25% below the level needed to meet hospital demands. Summer has brought an expected decline in donations, driven by vacations and school breaks, but combined with increased trauma cases,
4,000 Reasons To Love Bees
the impact on the local blood supply has been severe.
Type O-negative is the universal blood type used when seconds matter and a patient’s blood type is unknown. Type O-positive, the most common type, is in constant demand for surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatments, and daily medical care.
“Every pint counts, especially in the summer, and we are so grateful to these local establishments for coming together to support the critical need for blood donations in the summertime,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center. “We hope this fun incentive will inspire returning and first-time donors to donate blood and enjoy a refreshing beverage or frozen treat on us. Blood donations are needed now more than ever.”
Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can donate twice a month. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800933-2566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still make a life-saving impact by supporting NYBC’s mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time. Visit here to learn more: https://www.nybc.org/ support-us/
* Blood donors 21+ years of age are eligible. Prizes hold no cash value and are non-transferable. The type of beverage and frozen treat is at the venue’s discretion. Voucher must be redeemed on or before October 31, 2025, and cannot be used on the day of donation. Other restrictions may apply.
(StatePoint) While most people picture the beloved honey bee when they think about bees, North America actually has 4,000 species of native bees, many of which are busy right now.
“Throughout spring and summer, these insects dutifully pollinate crops and wildflowers, playing a vital role in fostering healthy ecosystems,” says Clay Bolt, manager of Pollinator Conservation and Great Plains communications, World Wildlife Fund.
According to Bolt, native bee species are beautifully varied in their appearance, behaviors, feeding habits and habitats.
They can be striped, metallic, fuzzy, thin and rotund, in a spectrum of colors. The world’s smallest species—the Euphorb mini-fairy bee— is only found in southern deserts. At 2 millimeters, it is about as long as a U.S. nickel is thick.
Different bee species fly at different times—early morning, daytime or night. Many emerge seasonally in spring or summer, while others remain hidden underground for years awaiting summer monsoons. Bees inhabit diverse environments, from cold mountain peaks to beaches. Generalist species visit many flower types, while specialists pollinate
only specific flowers. And unlike bumble bees and other hive-dwelling bee species, such as honey bees and stingless bees, over 70% of the world’s bee species are in fact solitary, hardworking moms who quietly nest in overlooked places like decomposing logs and alongside garden paths.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “what is a bee?” you might be surprised to learn that they are vegetarian wasps. However, unlike their wasp relatives, which often feed their young protein in the form of paralyzed insects and the hamburger they might steal from your picnic table, most bees provide their offspring with protein made from pollen mixed with nectar. The mother bee compacts these materials into a pellet and places it within her nest cavity, lays a single egg atop the mixture, then seals the chamber where the young bee will develop entirely without maternal assistance.
How can you help bees?
Sadly, bees face threats to their survival, but there are steps you can take to help protect them.
Bees need healthy, pesticide-free foods throughout their lives.
This is one of the greatest gifts you can offer these pollinators, especially
because parks and gardens often grow flowers that only bloom during peak summer. By planting a variety of plants that flower from early spring through autumn, the number of native bees and other pollinators visiting your garden will increase exponentially.
“Through small acts of kindness, you can transform the lives of these remarkable creatures, while filling your heart with profound hope and wonder as you witness their delicate yet ongoing care of our shared world,” says Bolt.
The recently celebrated World Bee Day also kicked off World Wildlife Fund’s new “Stories of Hope and Wonder,” an ongoing series that connects people to the wonder of nature and offers hope for a future benefiting both people and wildlife. Each month, “Stories of Hope and Wonder” will feature a different species overcoming some of nature’s toughest obstacles to ensure its survival. To access these stories, visit www.worldwildlife.org/ hopeandwonder.
Bees are industrious creatures that are essential to vital food systems and healthy ecosystems. While bees are at risk, individuals can make all the difference in their own backyards.
