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It's June and summer will be here before we know it! We've gathered local getaway suggestions, a list of upcoming events you won't want to miss and much more. We hope you find time to flip through these pages and enjoy our June Issue. Plus, don't miss our current contest, where you can win passes to Six Flags®! Looking to advertise? This magazine is published monthly in print and online. Contact us for more information today.
UPCOMING EVENTS this June & beyond
National BBQ Festival at Eisenhower Park
1899 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow
June 13, 14 & 15 • Times vary per day
Enjoy mouthwatering eats, live entertainment and family-friendly fun at this one-of-a-kind event. Featuring top pitmasters from across the nation, serving up award-winning barbecue alongside craft brews, this is not something to miss!
Father’s Day Festival at Harbes
Family Farm & Vineyard
175 Sound Avenue, Mattituck
June 14 & 15 • 10 am - 6 pm
Take dad out east for a memorable Father’s Day celebration. Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard in Mattituck is hosting this annual festival, featuring a musical hayride tour of their 100acre farm, pig races, sports games, live music and so much more.
2025 Antiques, Vintage & Collectibles Show
677 West Montauk Hwy., Bay Shore
June 15 • 10 am - 4 pm
Visit Sagtikos Manor for this special event, featuring over 30 vendors and browse tools, jewelry, garden pieces, memorabilia, glassware and more.
Empire
State Fair at Nassau Coliseum
1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale
June 27 - July 13 • Times vary per day
Bring the whole family to one of Long Island’s biggest fairs! Taking place over several days and offering action-packed fun for all, this fair features more than 100 rides and attractions, food, free shows and more.
Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach
1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh
Juy 4 • 9:30 pm
Head to Jones Beach State Park for a fireworks extravaganza! This year, WALK 97.5 FM and KJOY98.3 FM will simulcast music during the fireworks presentation. Patriotism will be on display as the national holiday is celebrated.
Long Island Nostalgia Fest
94 Union Street, Mineola
July 11 & 12 • 2 pm - 9 pm
Wish it was the 90s again? You’ll love this event! A skateboard competition, 90s jams, nostalgia bars and retro shops are just some of what will be featured at this unique festival.
Happenings At The Emma Clark Library
School Supplies Drive –Through June 29
Library staff are collecting new school supplies for local organizations that serve students in need. Suggested items include pencils, notebooks, crayons, pens, markers, calculators, highlighters, erasers, index cards, post-its, glue, backpacks, scissors, combination locks, & rulers.
Bins will be located in the Library lobby and all (residents or nonresidents) are welcome to donate. Questions? Email askus@ emmaclark.org
Adults
Game Day
Every Friday, 10:00 a.m. – Noon We provide the space, tables and chairs. You bring your friends and a favorite board or card game to play. We also have 2 Mahjong sets available upon request. (You must supply your own cards.) No registration required.
Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to
Finances
Tuesday, June 17, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
If you or someone you know is facing Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or another chronic illness, it’s never too early to put financial plans in place. Join us to learn tips for managing someone else’s finances, how to prepare for future care costs and the benefits of early planning. Led by an educator from the Alzheimer’s Association.
This class is open to all Suffolk County residents. Reserve
your spot at emmaclark.org/ programs. Questions? Email askus@emmaclark.org
Knit, Crochet, and Chat
First Friday of every month, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Since the Library is closed on July 4, this program will be held on July 11.
Join with friends, old and new, to work on your current knitting or crochet project. Share tips, techniques, and conversation. No registration necessary. No instruction will be provided. Please bring your own supplies. If you have any questions about this program, contact Emma Yohannan at eyohannan@ emmaclark.org.
Kids “Drop In” Activities at Emma Clark Library
Meet the Farm Animals
Wednesday, July 9, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Join Suffolk County Farm on the Library lawn for hands-on interaction with farm animals. Ages PreK to Grade 5. No registration. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Sing-Along with Nappy’s Puppets
Friday, July 11, 6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
Silly sing-alongs, songs, and shadow puppets with Jim Napolitano. For families with children up to Grade 5. No registration. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Crafternoon
Saturday, July 12.
Stop in anytime between 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Kids and their grown-ups are welcome to drop by for crafty fun with upcycled materials. Ages 3 – 11 welcome. No registration. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Adventure of the Missing Color
Wednesday, July 16, 11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
Discover the science around you through exciting, hands-on experiments and interactive stories with Talewise. Grades K - 5. No registration. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Magic, Laughs, and More Friday, July 18, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Experience a whirlwind of jaw-dropping tricks and sidesplitting jokes with Magician Jon Reid. For families with children up to Grade 5. No registration. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Harry Potter Day Tuesday, July 29, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Harry Potter-themed activities to celebrate Harry’s birthday! For families with children up to Grade 5. No registration. Questions? Email kids@ emmaclark.org
Touch-A-Truck
Wednesday, July 30, 10:00 a.m. – 12noon
Check out vehicles from different community organizations. For families with children up to Grade 5. No registration. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Gifts For Dad He’s Certain To Enjoy
Father’s
Day celebrations began on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that a day honoring fathers became a national holiday. Since then, children have been trying to figure out how they can show their dads and other father figures in their lives just how much they are appreciated. Plenty of hugs and high fives are customary on Father’s Day, but gifts also get the spotlight on this holiday, which is held on the third Sunday in June each year. Each year families ponder what to get the man who seemingly has everything. These Father’s Day gifts are certain to please Dad this year.
Gaming gifts
The joy of gaming may not wane as Dad gets older. Once a gamer, always a gamer, and gifts that cater to Dad’s love of play can be winners. Pay attention to the release dates of games that Dad wants to play,
and then make sure to grab them before they sell out. Peripherals that can enhance gaming also can be ideal gifts. These include Bluetooth headphones with microphone, controller charging stations, light-up keyboards, or a comfortable gaming chair.
Sports tickets
Experiential gifts continue to win rave reviews, as people increasingly are finding that adding more “stuff” to their lives does not equate to happiness. Rather, gifts that focus on experiences instead of material things can produce lasting memories. Father’s Day is a good time to grab tickets to an upcoming sports game, whether it’s a highprofile Major League Baseball game at the stadium, a local event or overseas affair. June and July feature Formula 1 racing, the Worldwide International Cricket Matches, the MLB All Star Game, the Tour de France, Wimbledon, and more. Cookout supplies
of cooking gear can be the perfect way to show love and affection on Father’s Day. While grills and smokers may get much of the attention, a tabletop pizza oven or outdoor griddle might be welcome additions as well.
Fishing gear
If Dad is the resident outdoor chef, adding to his assortment
The warm weather of the summer presents plenty of opportunities for anglers to reel in trophy catches. Fathers who love to fish can always use some additions to their tackle boxes, new reels and rods. Choose the correct items for the type of fish he typically goes for, as fishing for striped bass requires different gear that fishing for fluke. Father’s Day gifting is made easier with some shopping inspiration.
Celebrate Father’s Day In Unique Ways
Father’s Day is a celebration of dads near and far. Falling on the third Sunday of June each year, Father’s Day presents an opportunity for families to come together and put the spotlight on fathers who work tirelessly for their children and provide them with love and support. Father’s Day also is a chance to honor the men who serve as father figures or play special roles in people’s lives. It’s easy for families to fall into a routine when it comes to celebrating Father’s Day. Certainly dinner and gift-giving is traditional, but there are additional ways to provide Dad with the day he deserves. Explore these creative options.
Set up a scavenger hunt Drag out the suspense of Dad getting his Father’s Day gift by hiding it and requiring him to go through a series of clues to find it. When writing up the clue cards, spouses and children can reference particularly happy moments or things around the house that are representative of Dad’s love. For example, a clue may read, “Here’s where we like to snuggle together to watch our favorite show.”
Take it outdoors
June weather tends to be pleasant, and that means Father’s Day celebrations can be held outside. Everyone can select a spot that Dad loves to visit, whether it’s a hiking trail or a local park, and then plan activities around the chosen location.
Go on an adventure
Father’s Day can be spent engaging in something the family has never tried before that may be exciting for Dad. Maybe he’s always wanted to
go off-roading on quads or try his skills at hatchet-throwing?
The family can get together and choose an activity Dad will find engaging and that everyone can enjoy.
Make it a beach day
Dad might just want a break from the hectic pace of life on Father’s Day. This is the perfect opportunity to head oceanside. For those who don’t live by the coast, a river or lakefront spot can be an ideal alternative. Frequently
these are touristy areas, so it could be relatively easy to find an eatery where everyone can make a reservation for lunch or dinner after enjoying a relaxing day with waves lapping the shore.
Father’s Day Around The World
Manycountries around the world celebrate Father’s Day, but not all of them do so in June. The most common date for Father’s Day celebrations is the third Sunday of June, when the U.S. and Canada celebrate the holiday. In 2025, that day will be June 15th. Many European countries with sizable Catholic populations, such as Spain, Italy and Portugal, celebrate Father’s Day on March 19th, which is known as St. Joseph’s Day on the Catholic liturgical calendar. St. Joseph was the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus Christ, so he is widely recognized as the patron saint of fathers. In Scandinavian countries, Father’s Day is the second Sunday in November, which many believe to be an attempt to boost the economy during a month when retail businesses are not particularly busy. In Germany, Father’s Day is tied to Ascension Day, which comes on the fortieth day of Easter. Australia and New Zealand celebrate dads on the first Sunday of September, while Brazil celebrates Father’s Day on the second Sunday of August. No matter when Father’s Day falls, the holiday marks a great time to show dads just how special and loved they are.
Take Your Fourth Of July Burgers Up A Notch
Fourth of July celebrations often take place in the backyard by the grill, and this year marks a perfect opportunity to expand your culinary repertoire. This recipe for “Best Burger With Blue Cheese Butter” courtesy of Eric Treuille and Birgit Erath’s “Grilling” (DK Publishing) offers a new take on a backyard barbecue staple
Best Burger With Blue Cheese Butter
Serves 4
1 pound ground chuck steak
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 1⁄2-inch slices blue cheese butter
4 sesame hamburger buns, halved
Directions:
Combine ground steak with salt and pepper. Divide into 4 equal-sized pieces and gently shape into 4 burgers about 1-inch-thick. Grill burgers and warm buns according to instructions below. Top burgers with butter and serve hot in sesame buns.
Outdoor cooking:
Grill over hot coals for 3 minutes per side for rare, 4 minutes per side for medium rare, or 5 minutes per side for well done. Place buns cut side down on grill until warm and lightly golden, 1 minute.
Indoor cooking:
Preheat a ridged cast-iron grill pan over high heat. Cook for 3 minutes per side for rare, 4 minutes per side for medium rare, or 5 minutes per side for well done. Place buns cut side down on grill pan until warm lightly golden, 1 minute.
Blue-Cheese Butter
Makes 15 servings
16 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces (1 cup crumbled) blue cheese
2 teaspoons black pepper
Directions:
Place ingredients in a food processor or blender; pulse until well blended. Wrap in foil. Place in the freezer until hard, about 45 minutes. To serve, roll back foil and cut into 1⁄2inch slices. When slicing from frozen, warm the knife under hot water first. After slicing, always tightly rewrap the unused flavored butter roll in the foil before returning to refrigerator or freezer.
Best Burger Variations
• Herbed Burger: Add 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 crushed garlic clove and 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion to the ground steak.
• Spicy Burger: Add 1⁄2 teaspoon tabasco, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard to the ground steak.
Think ahead:
Shape burgers up to 1 day in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
Cooks’ Note: Overhandling the meat when shaping will result in a tough, dry burger. To guarantee a juicy burger, handle the meat as little as possible.
Lexia Lindsay Named Among Long Island’s Best Young Artists
Comsewogue
High School student Lexia Lindsay has been honored with dual recognition for her exceptional talent. Not only was Lexia selected for Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at the Heckscher Museum 2025— one of the region’s most prestigious juried high school exhibitions—she has also been chosen as a standout student. Her work will be showcased at The Firefly Artists Gallery in Northport.
“I cannot begin to explain
how impressive this is for one of our kids,” said Gina Melton, Linday’s art teacher. “Lexia’s dedication, creativity, and vision are truly inspiring.”
Lexia’s artwork will be on view at The Firefly Artists Gallery, 90 Main Street, Northport, NY, through June 15, 2025. The Firefly Gallery, a cherished hub for local creativity since 2011, has long been committed to supporting emerging artists through exhibitions, workshops, and art education.
Stay at this oceanfront hotel, allowing you easy access to miles of pristine beaches, the Long Beach Boardwalk and much more. Plus, enjoy their on-site restaurants and rooftop pool.
BRIDGEHAMPTON INN
Established in 1994, the Bridgehampton Inn boasts a cozy country vibe with luxury touches. Guests can enjoy a peaceful breakfast or a delightful dinner featuring locally-gathered ingredients, right on-site.
This 26-room boutique luxury hotel features an acclaimed restaurant and fresh, new guest rooms and suites. Their staff delights in pampering their guests, who will recieve a complimentary Chef’s à la carte continental breakfast.
ROSE HILL VINEYARDS & INN
Spend the night at this memorable bed and breakfast, located on 22 acres. Their beatifully restored, historic farmhouse features 4 guest bedrooms and there are over 40 vineyards within
Photo courtesy of Discover Long Island
Photo courtesy of Discover Long Island
Photo courtesy of Discover Long Island
Prepare Pets For Fourth Of July Festivities
Manypeople are eager for Independence Day celebrations in early summer. There is much to be excited about, as festivities often begin in the afternoon with barbecues and pool parties, and commence late at night after fireworks shows that light up the night sky. Still, not everyone enjoys the extra noise and busy nature of July 4th parties, particularly furry members of the family. Animal control services often report an increase in lost animals between July 4th and July 6th. That’s because the excitement of the holiday puts pets out of their comfort zones. While pet owners need not cancel their July 4th plans, they should take heed of the many ways to keep their pets safe during the festivities.
Update identification
Be sure prior to any July 4th events that pets are wearing collars with current identification information. If an address or phone number has changed since the last time you updated microchip
records, be sure to check the account is current.
Be careful with alcoholic drinks
Party hosts typically serve beer, wine and cocktails. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets, says the ASPCA. Animals can become very intoxicated, severely depressed or go into comas if they drink alcohol. Keep spirited drinks well out of reach.
Check with the vet
Many pets are prone to anxiety from loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks, and lots of commotion — something that occurs in spades come July 4th. Some veterinarians recommend a small course of anti-anxiety medication or a sedative to help pets cope with the stimuli.
Create a quiet space
Allow pets to ride out the day in their comfortable, quiet and cozy retreats. If necessary, create a space
in an interior room. Cover the pet crate with a blanket and offer favorite toys or bedding to create a soothing environment.
Place notes on doors and gates
While it’s best to keep pets in a locked room away from the fray, some pets like to socialize with guests and are not bothered by noises. However, alert guests with
notes posted on doors and fence gates to check to make sure pets are not trying to escape behind them. All doors should be closed firmly when entering or exiting.
Pick up debris
Firework debris can rain down on properties even if you were not shooting off the fireworks. Curious pets may pick it up or eat it, which runs the risk of an upset stomach or even an intestinal blockage. Check your yard before letting pets out to play.
Keep an eye on the grill
Pets can be opportunists, and those burgers and chicken drumsticks smell delicious to pets. Pets that get too close to the grill can become injured. And if pets eat leftovers, they may end up with digestive distress or even be poisoned by foods that are toxic to cats and dogs.
8 Games To Try At The Next Backyard Bash
Gamescan enhance any outdoor function. Whether at the beach or in one’s backyard, activities can keep guests entertained in between the food and other refreshments. And the good news is that most games designed for these types of functions are appropriate for players across a wide range of ages. The following are eight games that can add to the excitement of any outdoor gathering.
1. Ladder toss: Also known as ladder golf, this game requires players to toss string-attached balls onto a ladder-shaped target. Points are awarded depending on which rung the ball lands on.
2. Kubb: Pronounced “KOOB,” this Swedish lawn game believed to have originated during the era of the Vikings and is best described as a blend of bowling and
horseshoes. Two teams compete to knock over their opponents’ wooden blocks by throwing batons.
3. Cornhole: Many people have played cornhole, which involves tossing bean bags at the cornhole board, The objective is to get the bag into the hole or on the board to score points. The game can be played as singles or doubles. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
4. Spikeball™: Also called Roundnet, this two-on-two sport is played by hitting a ball off a net with the goal of preventing the opposing team from returning the ball within three touches.
5. Ring toss: This is another game that tests hand-eye coordination. Players take turns tossing the rings onto the target pegs. Each peg is worth a different number of points. The
6. Connect four in a row: Giant versions of familiar tabletop games also are available for yard use. With this game, players need to get four chips in a row, either up and down or diagonal.
7. Kan Jam®: Similar to cornhole or horseshoes, Kan Jam® features two teams of two that alternate between throwing a frisbee and trying to deflect it. The goal is to get the frisbee into the can.
first player to reach the agreed-upon amount of points wins.
The8. Rollers: Goals are placed 25 feet apart and then players roll wooden discs to try to get closest to the goal. Each side of the disc has a different number to determine the point value.
Did You Know?
American Academy of Dermatology recommends that parents avoid exposing babies younger than six months to the sun's rays. Infants should be kept in the shade as much as possible and dressed in lightweight and long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. The AAD also notes, sunscreen use should be avoided in babies younger than six months. Children six months and older can use a broadspectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun-protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. These sunscreens should be applied to all areas that are not covered by clothing, and reapplied approximately every two hours (or as often as the product label indicates).
Noteworthy July Fourth Celebrations Across The United States
JulyFourth 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 aweinspiring 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 familyfriendly 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.
Outdoor Activities
Ideal For Summertime
GeorgeGershwin’s song “Summertime,” from “Porgy and Bess,” offers: Summertime and the livin’ is easy Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high Summer can be a magical season full of fresh air, warm days and nights, blooming flowers, and plenty of opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors. There are so many ways to fill summer days, and people are urged to maximize time spent outdoors during this time of year. Since the sun’s rays can be particularly harmful between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., protective
enjoy. Try flat paths for beginners, and then build up the length and intensity of rides as experience is gained.
• Day at the beach: Some attest there is no more perfect place than the beach on a summer day. The waves lapping the sand, the birds calling in the air, and the sounds of children’s laughter and sunbathers’ chatter all combine to create a relaxing seaside symphony. According to WebMD, the negative ions given off by the ocean can improve mood and add to the calming effect the beach provides.
• Backyard obstacle course: Construct an obstacle course in the backyard that everyone can try. It can include having to jump through tires; climb a jungle gym; run through a sprinkler; and crawl under a low-hung clothesline. Family members can compete to see who can finish the course in the least amount of time.
• Walk a boardwalk: Those lucky to live near a coast can spend an afternoon or evening strolling the boardwalk, enjoying the various fare and fun activities offered. Many boardwalks have games of chance and small rides for kids. Adults may enjoy the restaurants, bars and shops. Of course, no trip to a boardwalk is complete without coming home with some saltwater taffy.
• Hike: In a survey of Americans 18 and older conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, nearly 50 percent said going for a walk or hike was their favorite outdoor summer activity. Hiking requires very little to get started and can produce numerous opportunities to witness nature and get some exercise.
There’s no limit to the ways people can enjoy the great outdoors when the weather warms up.
clothing and sunscreen is recommended during this time; otherwise, people can engage in outdoor activities during times when the sun is less potent.
Those seeking some summertime recreation inspiration can consider these activities.
• Family bike ride: Explore trails or bike paths in the area in advance, and then prepare bikes for an excursion. Bicycle riding is a great cardiovascular activity that people of all ages and fitness levels can
