Town of Oyster Bay Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato joined the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce
ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of Schoolhouse Play & Cafe in Farmingdale.
Steven Rhoads and New York State Assemblyman John Mikulin.
RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Vegan Blueberry Lemon Cornmeal Cobbler
Blueberries are out in full force when the weather warms. Blueberries are delicious freshly picked, and can be topped with some light cream for a refreshing dessert. Blueberries also are equally at home baked in muffins, breads and cobblers. The following recipe for “Blueberry Lemon Cornmeal Cobbler” courtesy of “Vegan Cooking for Beginners!” with recipes curated by Publications International, Ltd., pairs the tang of lemon with the sweetness of blueberry for the perfect treat. It’s great for dessert or even served for brunch.
1 1⁄2 tablespoons finely grated lemon peel, divided 1⁄2 cup plain unsweetened soymilk or almond milk
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Combine boiling water and flaxseed in small bowl. Let stand until cool.
2. Combine blueberries, 1⁄3 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, cornstarch, and 1⁄2 tablespoon lemon peel in large bowl; toss to coat. Spoon into prepared pan.
3. Combine soymilk and remaining 2
2⁄3 cup all-purpose flour
1⁄4 cup fine-ground cornmeal
1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 cup coconut oil, melted
tablespoons lemon juice in small bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Combine flour, cornmeal, remaining 1⁄2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon peel, baking powder and salt in medium bowl; mix well. Add soymilk mixture, coconut oil and flaxseed mixture; stir until just combined. Drop topping by 2 tablespoons into mounds over blueberry mixture.
4. Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown. Let stand 30 minutes before serving.
Town Of Oyster Bay’s 2025 Music Under The Stars & Movies By Moonlight
Thank You Is Still Good Business
By JoAnn Cilla
Lately, it’s easy to get caught up in how fast business is changing, especially with all the buzz around AI and automation. As I watch these tools transform how we work, market, and connect, I realize that the more we rely on them, the more important it is to remember the things that make us human.
One of those things is the simple act of saying thank you.
A sincere thank you can acknowledge a purchase or referral—but it also affirms relationships. A proper thank you says, “I see you. I appreciate you. You matter.” That’s not something AI can replicate—not really. In today’s digital world, where everyone spends hours each day on their smartphones, human connection is a true differentiator. It’s what helps a local business stand out in a sea of algorithms and automated chat bots.
This summer, local business owners have a perfect opportunity to deepen relationships with the customers who support them all year long. Here are five meaningful and creative ways to show your appreciation:
1. Host a Customer Appreciation Event – Turn your store or office into a mini summer party. Customers can stop by for food, raffles, and music.
2. Offer Personal Touches – Slip a handwritten note or surprise freebie
JOANN CILLA
into a customer’s bag. A thoughtful gesture can be more memorable than a discount.
3. Give Back in Their Honor – Make a small donation to a local nonprofit and let customers know it’s thanks to their continued support. Gratitude backed by action speaks volumes.
4. Create Exclusive Summer Experiences – Invite top clients to a special evening with early access to new items, refreshments, or mini workshops. Make Wthem feel like insiders.
5. Spotlight Loyal Customers – Use social media to celebrate your regulars. A quick photo and a kind word can go a long way in reinforcing relationships.
As AI continues to evolve, let’s remember that relationships are the one thing no machine can replicate.
Saying thank you is still smart business—and it’s the kind of human connection that keeps communities like ours strong. I look forward to seeing you around town.
JULY HAPPENINGS
THURSDAY, JULY 24th
7:00PM-12:00AM
30TH ANNUAL STONY BROOK FILM FESTIVAL
Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Rd. in Stony Brook. The Stony Brook Film Festival showcases the best in independent film premieres. All films screen through July 26 in Staller Center’s Main Stage Theatre at Stony Brook University. For more information, please call 631-632-2787
SATURDAY, JULY 26th
9:00AM-2:00PM
LONG BEACH FARMERS MARKET
Kennedy Plaza, 1 West Chester Street in Long Beach. Each week, we're proud to host a group of passionate farmers, artisans, bakers, and makers who bring their best to share with our community. From fresh, locally grown produce to handmade goods and unique treats, every vendor has a story worth discovering. For more information, please visit https:// www.longbeachfarmersmarket.com/
10:00AM-4:00PM BLOOD DRIVE
AT EAST GATE CHURCH
New York Blood Center Blood Drive at East Gate Church, 1150 Hicksville Road in North Massapequa, during the "Christmas in July" Family Fair. For more information, please call 516-731-3553
6:30PM
NIGHT AT THE RACES
Will be held at Wade-Burns VFW
HOLIDAYS
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
7279, 560 N. Delaware Avenue, Lindenhurst, Doors open 6:30 p.m.
Admission $10. For more information, please call 631-888-9854
SUNDAY, JULY 27th
11:00AM-12:30PM
CARING FOR WILDLIFE PROGRAM AND WALK
At Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown, they offer wildlife rehabilitation at their nature center and take care of injured, sick, and orphaned animals. Participants will meet some of the resident non-releasable animals, find out their stories, and learn what you can do to help wildlife in our area. If you’re interested in becoming a rehabber this a good first step. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30th
6:30PM-8:30PM TAP ROOM GOES PURPLE TO END ALZHEIMER'S
The Alzheimer's Association Long Island Chapter is excited to partner with Tap Room for an awareness event. Tap Room, 206 Main Street in Farmingdale. Enjoy complimentary appetizers while you learn about: Free programs and services provided by the Alzheimer’s Association, the latest updates on Alzheimer’s research and treatments, ways you can get involved in any of our five Long Island Walks and volunteer Opportunities and valuable resources available.
For more information, please call 646-793-4851
6:30PM-10:00PM
2025 WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUMMER SERIES
Eisenhower Park - Field 2, Parking Lot 2, in East Meadow. 7PM StartRain or Shine, 6:30PM Kids Fun Run Start. Long Island Road Running Club's ongoing commitment to quality racing, healthy choices and bringing friends & family together! For more information, please call 516-531-3323
6:30PM
STRAWBERRY FIELDS BEATLES TRIBUTE
The Kiwanis Club of Copiague is hosting a fundraiser on July 30th, a Night of Music, Food and Friends. Amity Harbor Civic, 100 Western Concourse, Amity Harbor. $30 pp, pizza, wings, snacks, beer, wine & soda. Bring a lawn chair. RSVP Gene Murray 917-498-1781, or Mike Greb 631-835-7087
THURSDAY, JULY 31st
11:00AM-1:00PM
FANTASTICAL SEA BEASTS & WHERE TO FIND THEM
The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. No Registration Required Fire-breathing beasts! Galloping unicorns! Did you know that many mythic creatures featured in the Harry Potter world started their stories in the sea? For more information, please call 631-3673418
The Best Night To Dine Out At A Restaurant
Friday and Saturday night might be the day people most identify as the best night to dine out at a restaurant, but a recent survey found that Sunday reigns supreme among diners. According to a recent survey from Real Research, just under 30 percent of diners said they eat out on Sunday, which makes the first day of the week more preferable than Friday (18.9 percent) and Saturday (15.4 percent). Perhaps more surprisingly, a greater number of respondents indicated they prefer to dine out on Monday (23 percent) than Friday or Saturday. Despite these preferences, experienced diners know that it's still wise to book a reservation when dining out on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Diners might be more likely to find a table without a reservation on Monday.
Lunch Special
(Monday - ursday)
Includes: Soup or Salad (Tossed or Caesar)
3 Course Prix Fixe Dinner
(Monday - ursday)
Soup or Salad (Tossed or Caesar)
ENTRÉE: Pasta, Chicken, Veal, Filet of Sole or Eggplant,
with Vegetable of the Day
ENTRÉE: Pasta, Chicken, Veal, Filet of Sole or Eggplant, served with Vegetable of the Day & Cheesecake or Cannoli
Long Islanders Invited To Get Free Memory Screenings This Summer
Long Islanders can get free, confidential memory screenings this summer at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s (AFA) Barbara Rabinowitz Education and Resource Center, located at 149 Schleigel Blvd, in Amityville. Screenings will take place each Wednesday afternoon and are open to everyone, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 631223-4000.
Memory screenings are quick (approximately 1015 minutes), noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other cognitive functions. They are similar to other routine health screenings, such as those for blood pressure, cholesterol, and skin checks. Screenings are administered one on one by a qualified professional, and results are confidential and provided immediately at
the end of the screening. Results are not a diagnosis, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation.
Early detection of memory impairments is vital. Many different conditions can cause memory issues, including treatable or curable conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea, stress, anxiety, and depression.
Even in the case of a dementia-related illness such as Alzheimer’s, early detection can provide greater opportunity to begin treatments when they are most effective, as well as taking part in a clinical trial. In addition, it affords the person the chance to take advantage of community services, such as support groups and therapeutic programming, which can help maximize quality of life, as well as have a greater say in making
legal, financial, and health care decisions.
Residents wishing to get a free memory screening at AFA’s Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource
Center this
appointment.
Classifieds
CH ECK OUT OUR WEBSITE TO LEARN ALL ABOUT
Town Of Babylon Cares
Health And Wellness Pop-Up Event
The Town of Babylon Cares is hosting a Health and Wellness Pop-Up Event at Raymour & Flanigan in Farmingdale on Saturday, August 2nd from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Anyone who donates will receive an exclusive 10% store discount.
This family event will feature:
• Wellness-themed games and activities
• A one-mile indoor walk
• Coping skills challenges
• Educational trivia
Did You Know?
Grilling is serious business in the hearts and minds of millions of people, which is perhaps the reason why individuals tend to be so devoted to their preferred method of cooking foods over an open flame. That devotion extends to the type of grill cooks use, which typically comes down to a choice between gas grills that utilize propane and charcoal grills that burn charcoal. Though the debate over which type of grill is better will likely never end, charcoal devotees insist that science is on their side. Grilling with charcoal leads to the release of an aroma compound known as guaiacol. Guaiacol is produced during the breakdown of lignin, a resin that BarbecueBros. com notes holds strands of cellulose together to form wood. As lignin breaks down, guaiacol is released, providing foods cooked over charcoal with a uniquely smoky, baconlike flavor. That unique flavor is absent from foods cooked on a gas grill, which charcoal grill enthusiasts point to as proof that their preferred method to grill meat is superior to other means.
• Giveaways, prizes, and more!
Whether you’d like to attend the event or volunteer to support it, we’d love to have you join us. You can make that selection directly on the form linked below.
SIGN UP HERE: https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSczR4gErJXt1WFgNctJqPBFT3vbUVKIGmqmp-4XRikNkVdtg/ viewform?usp=pp_url
Discover The Orthodox Christian Church (English
The Orthodox Church offers you the authentic Christian Tradition maintained without innovation since Apostolic times, which fulfills life on a daily basis, not just on Sunday. We welcome all people seeking a community rooted in the oldest Christian Church with an emphasis
Language Services)
on Holy Scripture, Holy Tradition, liturgical and prayer life, and traditional Christian values. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated every Sunday at 9:30 AM (Hours at 9:00 AM) at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 369 Green Avenue, East Meadow. Coffee hour follows the Divine
Liturgy. Services are also streamed on https://www. facebook.com/htocem. All services are conducted in English. Additional information and schedules can be found on the parish website, www.htocem.org, or by email, htocem@gmail. com.
Legislator Drucker Invites Property Owners To Register For Tax Exemptions At Homeowner Exemption Liaison Program (Help) Events
Nassau County Legislature
Deputy Minority Leader
Arnold W. Drucker (D –Plainview) is partnering with the Nassau County Department of Assessment to bring the Homeowner Exemption Liaison Program (HELP) to the Hicksville Public Library on Thursday, July 17; the Syosset Public Library on Friday, July 25; The Barn at Old Bethpage Village Restoration on Tuesday, July 29 and the Farmingdale Public Library on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
During HELP events, Department of Assessment staff provide homeowners with individual assistance with completing and filing applications for veteran,
senior citizen, Cold War veteran, volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker, and limited-income disability exemptions. Enhanced STAR applications will also be processed for homeowners already enrolled in the STAR program prior to Jan. 2, 2015.
All HELP sessions are from noon to 2 p.m. Participants are asked to arrive no later than one half-hour prior to the scheduled end time for the event, and to bring copies of their 2024 federal and state income tax returns and other required documentation for completing the application.
“Nassau County residents deserve every opportunity to lower their taxes and reduce their cost of living, and the HELP program is an outstanding tool for ensuring that you are receiving the full complement of exemptions that you have earned,” Deputy Minority Leader Drucker
said. “I am proud to once again be working with the Department of Assessment to bring these expert resources directly to our homeowners so that they can get the hands-on assistance they need to complete and submit their applications in one convenient setting.”
For more information or to receive a list of necessary documentation, call the Nassau County Department of Assessment at 516-5711500.
HICKSVILLE EVENT
WHEN – Noon – 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025 WHERE – Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Avenue, Hicksville, N.Y. 11801
SYOSSET EVENT
WHEN – Noon – 2 p.m. on Friday, July 25
WHERE – Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset, N.Y. 11791
OLD BETHPAGE EVENT
WHEN – Noon – 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025
WHERE – The Barn at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage, N.Y. 11804
FARMINGDALE
EVENT
WHEN – Noon – 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025
WHERE – Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale, N.Y. 11735
- Large Spacious Facility With Three Dance Rooms, A Comfortable Lobby And Separate Dressing Area
- Full Time Office Staff To Assist You During Class Times
