New York State Senator Steve Rhoads joined Councilman Chris Schneider, school officials, families, and community members to celebrate Seaford Middle School’s 60th Anniversary Concert. The evening featured an incredible showcase of talent, including performances by the school’s chorus and a remarkable 278-piece band. In celebration of six decades of excellence, the concert included a special rendition of Seaford’s alma mater, recently rediscovered in the school’s archives. It was a wonderful event that brought the community together and fostered pride in the school’s rich history.
Seaford High School Restores Lost Valedictorian & Salutatorian Plaque
After being lost for decades, Seaford High School’s 1958–1970 Valedictorian and Salutatorian Plaque has finally been restored! Thanks to the unwavering dedication of 1970 Valedictorian Susan Ranaudo (née Scharf) and her husband, John Ranaudo, the plaque has been painstakingly recreated. The couple spent countless hours researching records and gathering names to ensure the achievements of these outstanding students would once again be honored and remembered. Their work is a powerful tribute to community pride and a testament to their lifelong devotion to the Seaford Vikings legacy. Senator Steve Rhoads was happy to congratulate Susan and John Ranaudo and thank them for their remarkable efforts in preserving this important piece of Seaford history.
Set Sail Safely With Free Boater Certification Classes
Summer is here, and safety should be your first stop before you hit the open water!
Under Brianna’s Law, ALL boaters must be certified before cruising the coast and the Town of Hempstead is here to help!
We’re offering FREE Boater Safety Classes to help you get certified and stay safe all summer long.
3-Part Evening Classes (must attend all 3 sessions):
July 8, 15, & 22
August 5, 12, & 19
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
July 4 Pool Party Safety
Americans gather in backyards across the United States in celebration of the nation’s independence each July. Festivities often include delicious foods cooked on the grill, music, laughter, and, if there is a pool in the yard, hours of splashing around.
with too many boisterous swimmers, especially if adults, older kids and young kids are in the water. Small children can quickly get lost in the fray.
• Avoid swimming if you have been consuming alcohol.
• Keep a phone handy at all time. Promptly call for emergency services if the need arises.
• Ensure everyone immediately exits the pool if thunder is heard or lightning is seen.
We’re also offering two One-Day Courses on:
July 12
July 20
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Call (516) 897-4100 to reserve your spot. Space is limited!
Pools are great places to cool off from the hot sun. But pools also can be dangerous. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, drowning remains the No. 1 threat to children. Previous July 4 drownings should serve as sober warnings to those planning to celebrate in and around a pool this Independence Day. Simple precautionary measures can save lives.
• Never leave a child unattended in a pool or around any body of water no matter how small, even for a minute.
• Teach children basic water safety.
• Avoid overloading the pool
• Designate a lifeguard, whether it’s a hired, certified professional, or someone who has taken on the task and will keep eyes fixed on the pool at all times while swimmers are present.
• Establish rules and enforce them. Prohibit diving into shallow water and running around the slippery edge of the pool.
• Learn how to administer CPR to both children and adults.
• If a child goes missing, look for him or her in the pool first.
• Minimize the use of pool floats that can obscure the view of the pool floor when there are many swimmers present.
• Turn off the filter pump while guests are swimming, particularly to protect against entrapment on pool drains or pipes.
• The American Association of Pediatrics advises against allowing infants and toddlers in hot tubs. Older children should not be in a hot tub for more than 20 minutes at a time.
• Be sure the water chemistry is balanced in pools and spas so that swimmers are not irritated by the chemicals and the water is sanitary. Also, keep in mind that swim diapers are not foolproof. Check youngsters often so that waste does not end up in the pool.
JULY HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2nd
7:30PM
FARMINGDALE VILLAGE POPS ON THE VILLAGE GREEN
Farmingdale Village Pops On the Village Green, 43rd Season and Crowd Favorite! Wednesdays July 2nd, July 9th, July 16th, July 23rd & July 30th. Held on the Village Green, 361 Main Street, or along Main Street (as noted). Outdoor events are weather permitting. Bring chairs/blankets for seating for Movies, Pops concerts & theatre performance. For more information, please call Farmingdale Village, 516-249-0093
FRIDAY, JULY 4th
8:30AM-12:00PM
INDEPENDENCE DAY 4 MILE RUN/WALK At Bellmore Fire House, 230 Pettit Ave Bellmore. 8:30AM 4 Mile Start, 8:00AM 1 Mile Start. Rain or Shine. Sanctioned by USATF-LONG ISLAND & an individual scoring race in the USATF-LI Grand Prix. All are welcome, you can also become a member today to score! This event is a USATF-Long Island fundraiser, with all proceeds going directly to Long Island Track & Field. For more information, please call 516-531-3323
SATURDAY, JULY 5th
3:00PM
CONCERT OF PATRIOTIC MUSIC
Celebrating God and Country featuring Kathryn Wilson, soprano soloist. A free-will offering will be taken. Grace United Methodist, 515 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690
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
SATURDAY, JULY 12th & SUNDAY, JULY 13th
10:00AM-6:00PM
LONG BEACH ARTS AND CRAFTS
BOARDWALK FESTIVAL
The City of Long Beach Department of Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce that the 2025 Arts and Crafts Boardwalk Festival has returned. Vendor applications are available. All artisans are encouraged to apply! For more information, please call 516-705-7414
THROUGH JULY 13th
5-11PM WEEKDAYS AND NOON-11 PM SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS & JULY 4th
EMPIRE STATE FAIR
This family-fun annual event features a variety of live entertainment, four nights of spectacular Fireworks by Grucci, exciting rides and games for the whole family, and plenty of delicious fair food. For more information, please call 866-666-3247
SATURDAY, JULY 19th
10:00AM-4:00PM ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
Wantagh Preservation Society's 4th Annual Antique Car Show.(Rain date Sunday July 20th) Wantagh Preservation Society Museum, 1700 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. Cars from 1960's & older. Entrance fee $1. Refreshments for sale, 50/50 raffle, music! Go inside Wantagh's 1885 Train Station, Wantagh's 1907 Post office & get your free ticket to board the 1912 Jamaica Parlor car, (Parlor car open from 12 - 2pm). emailWantaghmuseum@gmail.com (Matt)
6:30PM-10:30PM
HAWAIIAN LUAU
Grab your grass skirt & Hawaiian shirt. Brumidi Lodge, Deer Park is hosting a HAWAIIAN LUAU. Hawaiian Style Buffet Dinner, Slushies & soda included, Tiki Bar, Brumidi’s Famous Hawaiian Entertainment DJ Gene & Joanne Spinning in the Music Hut. Raffles & Much More Summer Fun For tickets and more information, please call Anita 631-422-6914. Sons & Daughters of Italy in America 2075 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park.
SUNDAY, JULY 20th
11:00AM-4:00PM
SPIRIT OF SUMMER ART FESTIVAL Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Rd. N. Huntington Station. A day of celebrating inclusion and diversity in the arts, hand-made goods, community, food trucks, raffles, games, music performances, fun crafts and activities for the whole family! Hosted by the Spirit of Huntington, a non-profit community art center that teaches creative expression classes to all ages and all abilities. Connected with over 500 participants and dozens of local organizations across Long Island. For more information, please call 631-470-9620
MONDAY, JULY 21st
9:00AM-12:00PM
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 36 E. John Street in Lindenhurst. July 21st through July 25th. Bible lessons, Music, Games, Crafts, Snacks, and more! FREE!! Grades K-6th. Register at https:// saintjohnsvbs.myanswers.com
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 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.
Town Sanitation, Recycling Collection Modified For Independence Day
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto reminds residents that Town sanitation and S.O.R.T. Recycling collection schedules will be modified for the observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 4th.
“There will be no sanitation or recycling collection on Friday, July 4th for residents who normally receive Town service,” Councilman Imbroto said. “Residents who generally receive Town pickup on Fridays will have their collections done the next day, Saturday, July
5th.”
The Councilman added that Town offices will be closed on July 4th, but beaches, parks and pools will remain open. For more information, visit the Town’s website, www. oysterbaytown.com.
Discover The Orthodox Christian Church (English Language Services)
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 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.
NEW Program Alert: Registration Now Open For Pilates In The Park
Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that registration for the Town’s New Pilates in the Park program is now underway. This program will be held on Saturdays at Theodore Roosevelt Park beginning July 19th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and run for 10 weeks.
Councilwoman Walsh stated, “Balencing wellness
and athleticism, the Pilates in the Park program is perfect for all levels and abilities. Register today for an easygoing way to boost your core, improve posture, and reduce stress, all while enjoying the outdoors at one of the most beautiful parks in the Town of Oyster Bay!” Registration is online at: www.oysterbaytown.com/ sports. The resident fee is
$60, and new participants must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid photo ID. The non-resident fee is $70. Participants must provide their own mat. Classes will take place in the grassy area near the seawall.
For more information, please call (516) 7977945 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com
JOANN CILLA
New York Blood Center Encourages Summer Donations
Ahead Of July 4th Weekend
As New Yorkers gear up for the 4th of July holiday, New York Blood Center (NYBC) is encouraging blood donations to help maintain a stable supply for area hospitals throughout the busy summer months. Blood donations often dip around holiday weekends due to travel, school
breaks, and summer plans, but the need for blood remains constant.
To thank donors who step up to the plate to help keep the supply strong during this time, NYBC is offering Mets-themed incentives through July 7:
Donor center donors get their choice of a Mets T-shirt or packable
backpack, plus a voucher for 2 Mets tickets. Registration is required for ticket vouchers – learn more at nybc.org/promo.
Community blood drive donors will receive a Mets-branded T-shirt
“Summer always brings some challenges for the blood supply, but it’s also a great time to give back,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center. “Whether you’re staying in town or just taking an hour out of your day, donating blood is a meaningful way to support patients in your community, and we’ve got some great summer giveaways as a thankyou.”
Blood donations support patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, emergency care, and more. The need for blood often increases during the summer, known as “trauma season,” due to a rise in accidents and emergency room visits. Nearly 25% of trauma patients require blood transfusions for treatment.
In addition to the call for blood donations, NYBC is calling on additional businesses, schools, religious groups, and community organizations to step up and host drives this summer. Hosting a drive or volunteering can be just as lifesaving as
giving blood.
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900.
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Noteworthy July Fourth Celebrations Across The United States TO
July Fourth is a day of celebration across the United States. The Fourth of July commemorates American independence and millions of people throughout the country celebrate the day with family and friends. Communities host their own celebrations on July Fourth. Some celebrations are relatively simple, while others are must-see events for any patriot. The following are some of the more noteworthy Fourth of July celebrations that will entertain millions in person or on television this year.
• Washington, D.C.: It should come as no surprise that the capital of the United States hosts an especially awe-inspiring Fourth of July celebration. In addition to a concert featuring well-known musical acts on the National Mall, the festivities in the nation’s capital are marked by a fireworks extravaganza that will impress anyone seeking a unique way to celebrate the holiday.
• Boston: Estimates suggest roughly half a million individuals take in the Fourth of July festivities in Boston. A hotbed of patriotism during the American Revolutionary War, Boston embraces that spirit each July with a celebration on the city’s Charles River. The Boston celebration spans two days and includes a popular performance by the Boston Pops.
• Philadelphia: Another city with deep ties to
the American Revolutionary War, Philadelphia celebrates the nation’s independence against the backdrop of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is one of the city’s more notable and recognizable buildings. Individuals along both sides of the Delaware River can view the impressive fireworks display.
• San Diego: Notable celebrations of American independence are not exclusive to the eastern portion of the country. The Big Bay Boom fireworks over San Diego Bay can inspire any patriot, while across the bay on the island of Coronado celebrants can enjoy a parade and family-friendly concert before settling in for a fireworks show in the evening.
• New York, NY: Perhaps no Fourth of July fireworks celebration is as well-known as the one hosted by the Big Apple. Typically taking place on the East River, the New York City fireworks display can be viewed from various points throughout the city. Individuals looking for a unique way to take in the show can book a spot on a boat sailing in New York harbor.
There’s no shortage of Fourth of July celebrations. In addition to these noteworthy spots to celebrate American independence, the cities of Portland, Ore.; Chicago; San Antonio, Tex.; and Atlantic City, N.J. host their own unique celebrations.
The Original Salpino of Wantagh, N.
“RARE”
GATHERINGS! Feeds 12 people and includes the following:
INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
• Pino’s Famous Cheese & Parsley Sausage Ring
• USDA Prime Marinated London Broil
• 12 USDA Prime Sirloin Sliders
• 12 USDA GRADE A Chicken Skewers
An
of sides to choose from!
INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
• USDA Prime Sirloin Hamburgers with Buns!
• Boar’s Head Brand Hot Dogs with Buns!
• USDA GRADE-A White Meat Chicken Skewers
• USDA Prime Sirloin Steak Skewers
• Marinated Pino’s Famous Slow Cooked Marinated Baby Back Ribs
• Sugar Sweet Local Corn On The Cob
“WELL-DONE”
An impressive 6 protein package featuring filet mignon, shrimp kebabs & more!
INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
• Pino’s Famous Cheese & Parsley Sausage
• Pino’s Famous Slow Cooked Marinated Baby Back Ribs
• USDA Black Angus Filet Mignon Steaks
• Boar’s Head Hot Dogs, All Natural
CHOICE OF:
USDA Prime Sirloin Burgers or USDA Grade A Chicken Burgers
USDA Prime Sirloin Steak Skewers or All Natural Jumbo Shrimp Kebabs
