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Seaford Public Library Events

Seaford Public Library Announces, “America 250 at the Library” Celebration Series Honoring America’s Semiquincentennial

Seaford Public Library is proud to present its “America 250 at the Library” celebration series, a summer-long lineup of educational and community-centered programs commemorating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

America 250, also known as the Semiquincentennial, marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Through literature, crafts, historical discussions, and family activities, the Seaford Public Library hopes to bring residents together to celebrate the American spirit while exploring the people, stories, and events that helped shape the nation.

The library’s America 250 event lineup includes programs for children,

teens, and adults throughout the summer:

• June 2nd — Author Event: “Out of Rushmore’s Shadow”: The Luigi Del Bianco Story (In-Person) at 7:00 PM

Learn about Luigi Del Bianco, the master carver behind Mount Rushmore whose contributions played a significant role in one of America’s most iconic national monuments. Registration is open now online at www. seafordlibrary.org

•June 25th — Bus Trip: Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island & Lunch in Little Italy at 8:00 AM

Participants will visit two of the nation’s most historic landmarks, celebrating the immigrant experience and America’s enduring promise of opportunity and

freedom.

Registration is open now online at www. seafordlibrary.org

• July 1st — Teen Program: Patriotic Embroidery Pencil Case from 4:00 PM–5:00 PM

Teens in grades 5–12. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with needle and thread! You’ll learn basic embroidery stitches while creating a timeless keepsake featuring patriotic motifs. Registration begins online Friday, June 12th at www. seafordlibrary.org

• July 7th — Adult Book Discussion: “The American Spirit” by David McCullough from 2:00 PM–3:00 PM

The discussion will explore essays and speeches celebrating pivotal moments and figures in American history. Registration begins Tuesday, June 9th at the Reference Desk or online at www.seafordlibrary.org

• July 8th — Children’s Program: Paint the USA from 1:15 PM–2:15 PM Children in grades 2–5. Paint Lady Liberty with stars and stripes with Lisa and take home your own patriotic artwork! Registration begins online Wednesday, July 1st at www.seafordlibrary.org

• July 8th — Teen Program: Americana Planters from 7:00 PM–8:00 PM Teens in grades 5–12. Celebrate America’s birthday with DIY planters and we will plant real plants when we are finished. Registration begins online Monday, June 15th at www.seafordlibrary.org

Popular Prom Songs Through The Years

Popular songs provide the soundtrack to young adults’ lives. Such songs oﬀer comfort when hearts are broken, provide common ground with peers, and can even lift a person up during a study session or before a big game.

Music also plays a large role on prom night. Prom playlists are often a mix of high-energy anthems and slower ballads. These songs can serve as poignant reminders of the ups and downs of high school. Memories sparked by music can last long after photos or other mementos are forgotten.

2010s: Electronic Dance Inﬂuence

Over the last 30 years, certain songs have become associated with the eras in which they ﬁrst debuted. Naturally, these songs also were popular at proms during those years. Here is a look back at some of the most memorable prom songs from the 1990s through today.

1990s: Iconic Power Ballads and R&B Slow Jams

Proms during the 1990s were dominated by larger-than-life soundtracks and R&B groups, which balanced the grunge and hard-rock sounds of the era. This was the peak of the slow-dance era, with many songs also serving as movie soundtrack favorites.

• “I Swear,” All-4-One

• “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” Bryan Adams

• “Finally,” CeCe Peniston

• “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” Aerosmith

• “My Heart Will Go On,” Celine Dion

• “I’ll Be,” Edwin McCain

• “Tha Crossroads,” Bone Thugs-NHarmony

2000s: Party Anthems

The 2000s ushered in an energy shift toward hip-hop and club hits that kept dance ﬂoors packed. Proms became more upbeat and energetic with playlists like these.

• “Yeah!,” Usher featuring Lil Jon & Ludacris

• “Mr. Brightside,” The Killers

• “Hips Don’t Lie,” Shakira

• “Get Low,” Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz

• “If I Ain’t Got You,” Alicia Keys

• “Chasing Cars,” Snow Patrol

• “Hero,” Enrique Iglesias

The party continued into the next decade with the rise of electronic dance music and songs that sparked viral moments on early social media platforms. The following songs were likely heard at many proms throughout the 2010s.

• “Uptown Funk,” Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars

• “Party Rock Anthem,” LMFAO

• “All of Me,” John Legend

• “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran

• “Timber,” Pitbull featuring Kesha

• “Shut Up and Dance,” Walk the Moon

• “Shake It Oﬀ,” Taylor Swift

• “Despacito,” Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee

2020s: Nostalgia and Viral Hits

The modern era’s prom songs reﬂect a mix of 2000s nostalgia and tracks that have gained popularity through social media.

• “Stay,” The Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber

• “Levitating,” Dua Lipa

• “About Damn Time,” Lizzo

• “As It Was,” Harry Styles

• “good 4 u,” Olivia Rodrigo

• “Espresso,” Sabrina Carpenter

• “Pink Pony Club,” Chappell Roan

Timeless Favorites

While current hits tend to dominate prom playlists, certain songs remain staples year after year.

• “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Journey

• “Cupid Shuﬄe,” Cupid

• “Cha Cha Slide,” DJ Casper

• “Dancing Queen,” ABBA

• “Starships,” Nicki Minaj

• “Sweet Caroline,” Neil Diamond

Prom music helps create the soundtrack to students’ lives and can help people remember the feeling of that special evening long after prom has come and gone.

MAY HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, MAY 28th, thru SUNDAY, JUNE 7th

MIDWAY HOURS: 5-10 pm

Monday - Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11 pm Saturday, noon-10 pm Sunday. Aqua Live Spectacular showtimes are 7 pm and 9 pm daily, with an additional 3 pm performance on Saturday and Sunday.

SOUTH SHORE MALL CARNIVAL

South Shore Mall, 1701 Sunrise Hwy. in Bay Shore. Thrills galore are in store at this family-friendly annual event, from exciting midway rides and games for all ages to the Aqua Live Spectacular water stunt show starring enchanting aerialist mermaids, "The Hurricane" waverunner jet ski and more -- plus plenty of palate-pleasing carnival eats. Please visit the website, for more information https:// dreamlandamusements.com/

FRIDAY, MAY 29th, thru SATURDAY, MAY 30th

Friday, 10:00AM-4:30PM Saturday, 10:00AM-3:00PM SPRING BOOK SALE

Friends of the Babylon Public Library Spring Book Sale, 24 South Carll Avenue in Babylon. Come shop for books, DVDs, CDs, and more! Thursday evening hours are reserved for Friends members only, but you can become a member at the door! Proceeds from the book sale help pay for the library’s Museum Pass Program. For more information, please call 631-6691624

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 information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

FRIDAY, MAY 29th, thru SUNDAY, MAY 31st Friday & Saturday 4:00PM -10:00PM Sunday, 2:00PM to 8PM

SEAFORD SPRING JAM at the Seaford Train Station. The Seaford Spring Jam returns to Seaford Station along Sunrise Highway for Three Nights. It's a Carnival, a Music Festival and a Food Truck Rally... all jammed into one! For more information, please call 516-644-5615

SATURDAY, MAY 30th

8:00AM-1:00PM

MULTI-FAMILY INDOOR YARD SALE

Food, Thrift Shop, Antiques and so much more! Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690

10:00AM-4:00PM

WESTBURY STREET FAIR

149 Post Avenue in Westbury. Family shopoping fun! A great way to spend the day. Vendors, local artists, Art Exhibit, food trucks, live music. Free admission and parking. For more information, please visit https://nassaucountyfairs.com/

SUNDAY, MAY 31st

1O:00AM-4:00M STREET FAIR

Rain Date: Sunday, June 7th. Deer Park Avenue North in Babylon, Hale Rd to Stone Ave. Live Music, Performances, Food Court, Inﬂatables, Vendors, Rafﬂes Arts and Crafts.

11:00AM-6:00PM

ANNUAL ISLIP STREET FAIR ON MAIN STREET

517 Main Street in Islip. Hosted by the Islip Chamber of Commerce, it is a Quarter-Mile Long fair route stretching from South Bay Ave to Smith Ave. The Street Fair fosters a genuine sense of community pride that is heightened by all the fun features the Chamber has added, which include: a Giant Craft & Vendor Bazaar, Magniﬁcent Kids Funzone, The Tasty Tailgate Food Truck Rally, The New York Islanders Slapshot Booth, Face Painting, Rafﬂes And So Much More! Admission to the fair is free. The event is rain or shine (no rain date) For more information, please call 516-644-5615

Doors open: 1:00 PM Games start: 2:00 PM SUPERMARKET BINGO & CHINESE AUCTION

Our Lady of Lourdes School Auditorium, 855 Carmans Rd. in Massapequa Park. Admission: $25 per adult (18+ only), cash or check (payable to OLI Columbiettes) Limited seating— buy tickets early. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus & Columbiettes (Our Lady of the Island Council) For more information, please call Joan Donovan: 516-659-6519 | jdonovan17@aol.com, Diane Esposito: 516445-9128, diane. esposito.mpk@gmail.com

Tips To Throw A Memorable Graduation Party

Each year, newly minted graduates proudly don their caps and gowns and walk across countless stages to receive their diplomas or degrees. Graduation is a proud moment for students, and that pride is shared by family members and close friends who have supported them throughout their academic careers.

Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating. Planning a graduation party takes some eﬀort to ensure the event is worthy of this signiﬁcant moment in a student’s life.

Begin with a theme

Hosts can select a theme that aligns with the graduate’s interests. Consider themes tied to what a new high school graduate plans to study in college, or make the theme reﬂect the career path a recent college graduate hopes to pursue. Additional ideas include the graduate’s favorite movies, musical interests, cherished hobbies, or love of travel.

Set a budget

Establish a clear budget to manage expenses and prioritize key aspects of the celebration. Hosting a party away from home may seem more expensive, but when hosts factor in tent, table, chair, catering, and décor rentals, booking a venue may actually be more aﬀordable. Comparing all potential costs can help party hosts determine the best option and create a realistic budget.

Make the venue interesting If possible, tailor the venue to the theme. For example,

if the graduate loves the ocean and beach, a beach bonﬁre party can make for a memorable celebration. Graduates who enjoy concerts might appreciate a party that recreates the feeling of a live performance. Hire a musician, set up stadium-style seating, and create a stage where the performer can entertain guests. Afterwards, hire a DJ or stream a playlist created by the guest of honor.

Create a grand entrance

Find a fun way for the graduate to make a memorable entrance. Perhaps the lights can be dimmed before a spotlight shines on the graduate. For a sports-themed celebration, the graduate can run through a breakaway banner similar to a football team taking the ﬁeld before

kickoﬀ. A creative entrance can add excitement and help make the event unforgettable.

Include fun activities

Dancing, photo booth sessions, scavenger hunts, or demonstrations tied to the party theme can keep guests entertained throughout the celebration. Games and interactive activities also can help guests mingle and create lasting memories.

Keep the food simple

Keep the graduate’s favorite foods in mind and oﬀer dishes that are familiar and crowd-pleasing. There is no need to serve elaborate or exotic cuisine; guests are more likely to remember ﬂavorful foods and generous hospitality. A signature cocktail or mocktail also can add a personalized touch to the party.

Capture the memories

Create opportunities for guests to share messages and memories with the graduate. A guest book, memory jar, or instant-photo station can provide keepsakes the graduate will treasure long after the celebration ends.

If the idea of planning a graduation party alone seems daunting, particularly during a busy season when dates and venues book quickly, a professional party planner can be an invaluable resource. With some preparation and creativity, family and friends can celebrate graduates in a way that is both ﬁtting and memorable.

Long Island’s ARGYLE THEATRE Continues Its Children’s Theatre Series With The Musical DISNEY’S DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL

Directed and choreographed by NIKKI RINAUDO-CONCESSI with music direction by MARY ANN CAFIERO through June 7, 2026

The Argyle Theatre proudly presents Disney’s Descendants: The Musical, running April 25 through June 7, 2026, as part of its celebrated Children’s Theatre series. This production is directed and choreographed by Nikki Rinaudo-Concessi, with music direction by Mary Ann Cafiero. Descendants features a dynamic cast of rising stars and seasoned performers, delivering a story about legacy, identity, and the power of choosing your own path.

Based on the wildly popular Disney Channel Original Movies, Descendants: The Musical follows the teenage children

of Disney’s most infamous villains as they leave the Isle of the Lost for the first time to attend school in the idyllic kingdom of Auradon. As friendships form and loyalties are tested, these next-generation heroes and villains must decide who they want to be — and whether they will follow in their parents’ wicked footsteps or forge a new future.

The production features a vibrant score including fan-favorite songs like “Rotten to the Core,” “Evil Like Me,” “Chillin’ Like a Villain,” and “Ways to Be Wicked,” delivering a theatrical experience that is as infectious as it is

inspiring.

The cast includes Sarah Stewart (Regional: To Kill a Mockingbird) as Mal, Jessica Jane Smith (NY: UGLY! A Christmas Sweater Story) as Evie, Ryan Van Nostrand (NY: Into the Woods: In Concert) as Carlos, Ali-Asha Polson (NY:

Fordham/Ailey Training) as Jay, Cassidy Baltazar (NY: Lee Strasberg Institute) as Maleficent, Paul Schiller (Regional: Xanadu) as Ben, with Tatiana Bahoque (Regional: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical), Hunter Fenstermaker (Regional: Junie B. Jones:

The Musical), Nathan Stevenson (Regional: Annie), Peter Rezkalla (Regional: Elf the Musical), Katie Garthe (Regional: 9 to 5), Ráhel Steinberg (NY: AMDA), Alexandra Rose Meli (NY: Doctor Glass Workshop), RJ Christian (Off-Broadway: The Twenty-Sided Tavern), Grace Stauffer (Regional: Elf), and Erik Simon (Regional: CATS).

The creative team includes: book by Nick Blaemire, music adaptation by Madeline Smith. orchestrations by Matthew Tishler, lighting design by Michael Visco, costume design by Amanda Scanze, sound design by Matthew

Walsh, production stage manager is Gabby Duarte, and assistant stage manager Katelyn Chiappone. “This production captures the hearts, minds, and imaginations of audiences of all ages,” said the Argyle Theatre’s leadership in a statement. “ Following Descendants, the Argyle Children’s Theatre season continues this summer with DisneyPixar’s Finding Nemo, further expanding the theatre’s commitment to high-quality family entertainment.

Located in the heart of Babylon Village, The Argyle

8 Games To Try At Your Next Backyard Bash

Games can enhance any outdoor function. Whether at the beach or in one’s backyard, activities can keep guests entertained between the food and other refreshments. 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 excitement to 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 is 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 a cornhole board. The objective is to get the bag into the hole or onto the board to score points. The game can be played as singles or doubles, and the ﬁrst team to reach 21 points wins.

Hope For The Warriors’ 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge

Registration is open for the Hope For The Warriors 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge, a free virtual wellness event focused on physical and emotional well-being while honoring U.S. service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Hosted by Craig Conover, a Bravo television personality and Hope For The Warriors board council member, the challenge runs May 1–30. Participants commit to at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day for 30 consecutive days. Activities may include walking, running, hiking, swimming, strength training, or dancing.

demonstrations, healthy eating tips, and mindfulness activities.

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 it within three touches.

5. Ring toss: This game tests hand-eye coordination. Players take turns tossing rings onto target pegs. Each peg is worth a diﬀerent number of points, and the ﬁrst player to reach the agreed-upon score wins.

6. Connect Four in a Row: Giant versions of familiar tabletop games also are available for yard use. In this game, players try to get four chips in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.

7. Kan Jam®: Similar to cornhole or horseshoes, Kan Jam® features two teams of two players who alternate throwing a frisbee and trying to deﬂect it. The goal is to get the frisbee into the can.

8. Rollers: Goals are placed 25 feet apart, and players roll wooden discs in an attempt to get closest to the goal. Each side of the disc has a diﬀerent number that determines the point value.

Backyard events can be enhanced with a little gameplay, and there are plenty of fun options for your next gathering.

Individuals and teams can register at hopeforthewarriors.org. Participants may log daily activity through the website to track cumulative progress and earn up to 30 mission points each day. Prizes will be awarded to the top three participants at the conclusion of the challenge.

Participants will receive twice-weekly emails offering motivation, wellness tips, and ideas to support sustained physical and mental health. In addition, signing up for the 30x30 challenge provides access to the Hope For The Warriors’ sports and recreation resource library, which contains exercise

“The 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge continues to be a powerful way for people to come together in a meaningful way,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors. “Its virtual format allows participants everywhere to honor our military community through a shared commitment to wellness and remembrance.”

For more information or to sign up for the Memorial Day 30x30 Wellness Fitness Challenge, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.

To watch Craig Conover’s invitation to join his Hope For The Warriors 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge team, visit instagram.com/p/ DWo3VVPDMNf/?hl=en

About Hope For The

Warriors: Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military community (including veterans and active-duty service members as well as military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen). At HOPE, our mission is to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment, and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.

Long Island’s Argyle Theatre Presents Disney’s Descendants:

The Musical

Continued From 5

Theatre offers a stateof-the-art, nearly 500seat venue delivering a Broadway-style experience just steps from the LIRR and local dining destinations.

Sponsored by Catholic Health Good Samaritan University Hospital, this electrifying stage adaptation of the hit Disney Channel franchise

brings audiences into the worlds of Auradon and the Isle of the Lost for a musical adventure filled with humor, heart, and highvoltage fun. The Argyle Theatre is led by Artistic Director Evan Pappas, with Executive Producers Mark Perlman and Dylan Perlman, continuing the theatre’s mission to bring Broadway-caliber productions to Long Island

audiences

PERFORMANCE DETAILS

Disney’s Descendants: The Musical. Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 am through June 7, 2026. Tickets are $29

The Argyle Theatre 34 West Main Street, Babylon, NY Tickets are available at www.argyletheatre.com or by calling 631-230-3500.

Annual Street Fair

1:30pm-2:15pm The “CQ Experiment” Featuring Chantal 2:30pm-3:30pm The Acchords-The Top Doo-Wop Group in NY

Prom Night Prep Tips For Parents Helping Teens

Prom is a teenage rite of passage. Prom night provides one more exciting adventure in a school experience that likely began with preschool jitters and will soon culminate in graduates receiving their high school diplomas.

Prom planning often reaches a fever pitch a few weeks before the big event. A signiﬁcant amount of time and money can go into making prom a night to remember. While teens may be focused on fashion and fun, parents may be wondering what they can do to help steer their sons and daughters in the right direction. Here are some pointers for families preparing for prom.

• Set a budget: Inﬂation and supply chain issues have contributed to rising prices on many consumer goods, so prom attire and accessories may cost more than expected. Determine how much you can reasonably contribute and consider asking your teenager to help cover some expenses. When teens contribute ﬁnancially, they may be more mindful about spending. Renting a gown or tuxedo instead of purchasing one outright also can help reduce costs.

• Be a parent ﬁrst, friend second: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the months of April through June can be especially dangerous for teens, particularly when it comes to alcoholrelated traﬃc accidents. Some teens may see

prom night as an opportunity to experiment with alcohol or drugs. Parents should not condone underage drinking, whether hosting teens at home or organizing an after-party at a hotel or restaurant. Providing alcohol to anyone under 21 is both irresponsible and illegal in the United States.

• Set an example by staying calm: Prom planning can be stressful, especially when schedules, reservations, transportation, and attire all need to come together at once. Even though

teens may appear mature, emotions can run high when things do not go according to plan. Parents can help by reacting calmly to challenges and modeling problem-solving skills when unexpected obstacles arise.

• Stay involved: An involved parent can help teens make safer choices. Parents should know who their children will be spending time with, where they plan to go after prom, and how they will get home safely. Open conversations about boundaries, curfews, and expectations can help reduce risky behavior and encourage responsible decision-making.

• Discuss safety ahead of time: Talk with teens about the importance of traveling with trusted friends, staying aware of their surroundings, and contacting a parent or guardian if they ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Encourage teens to keep their phones charged and share transportation details before leaving for the evening. Having a plan in place can provide peace of mind for both parents and teens.

Prom night can be a memorable and enjoyable milestone in a teenager’s life. With thoughtful planning, open communication, and parental involvement, families can help make the experience safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Great Spaces To Host A Graduation Party

Graduation season has arrived, and with it comes plenty of celebrations honoring students who have spent years working toward a diploma or degree. Graduation parties commemorate students’ hard work, and there are many great places to host these special events and make the occasion even more memorable.

• Hotel with a private event space: Hotels are excellent venues for larger parties because they often provide everything needed — including catering, staﬀ, overnight accommodations, and audio-visual equipment — in one package. Check local hotels to see if their banquet or meeting spaces might be a good ﬁt for a graduation celebration.

• Acti vity spaces: Many graduates prefer something less formal than a traditional party. Activitybased venues, such as boutique bowling alleys, arcades, or entertainment complexes, allow guests to mingle, move around, and play games while celebrating the graduate’s achievement.

• Outdoor parks or community spaces: Towns and municipalities often have outdoor venues that can be rented or reserved for little to no cost. Covered pavilions, picnic areas, and park shelters can provide budget-friendly spaces to celebrate outdoors during warm-weather graduation season.

• Community centers or halls: Venues such as firehouse party rooms, VFW halls, or community centers often offer affordable rental options and the convenience of hosting outside the home. Party planners can bring their own food, entertainment, and decorations, allowing greater flexibility and

creative control over the event theme.

• Home or backyard celebrati ons: Graduation parties held at home offer a relaxed atmosphere and flexible schedule for guests to stop by throughout the day. If space allows, homeowners can rent tents, tables, flooring, and lighting to transform a backyard into an elegant venue. Home parties can range from casual cookouts to elaborate catered affairs.

• Family-style restaurants: Restaurants that can comfortably accommodate large groups help ensure guests stay well fed and relaxed while honoring the graduate. Some establishments may require a prix ﬁxe menu for larger parties to streamline kitchen operations and service. Even so, multi-course menus can provide good value and make hosting a stress-free experience.

• Rooftop or waterfront venues: Scenic venues with waterfront views or rooftop settings can add a memorable backdrop to a graduation celebration. These spaces often create a festive atmosphere and provide excellent opportunities for photographs with family and friends.

Graduation parties are a staple of late spring and early summer, and there are plenty of ideal locations where family and friends can gather to celebrate graduates and their accomplishments.

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Volunteering is a great way for individuals to strengthen their communities, but it also can be a unique way for individuals to improve their own overall happiness. A recent study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies examined 70,000 participants, each of whom received surveys that asked questions regarding their volunteering habits and mental health. The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and gave their overall health higher ratings.

631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276

(NAPSI)—Many fire departments are looking for volunteers to step up and serve their communities, reports the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the national association for the volunteer fire service. For more information about the volunteer fire service and to find an opportunity, visit www. MakeMeAFirefighter. com.

PLACE YOUR

CALL

Score A Good Grade On A Graduation Dinner

Students spend a good portion of their lives studying. By the time graduation arrives, thousands of hours spent on homework and writing term papers have passed. According to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, the number of U.S. high school graduates was expected to reach nearly 3.9 million students in 2025. The Education Data Initiative says 2.168 million bachelor’s degrees were conferred in spring 2025 in the United States. Individuals on the precipice of the next chapter in their lives are certainly worthy of celebration. A graduation dinner might just be an A-plus idea.

A graduation dinner is all about balancing the magnitude of the occasion with a relaxed environment for the graduate. Here is a syllabus for a seamless graduation meal.

• Secure the date. Graduation season is one of the busiest times of year for restaurants. Between May and June, millions of graduates will don caps and gowns and then be eager to celebrate. For those who are not hosting at home, it is essential to move quickly to secure a reservation. Book a reservation as soon as you know the graduation date.

• Consider another day. Graduation ceremonies tend to run late. Rather than feeling beholden to the actual graduation date and worrying about making it to the venue on time, consider hosting the graduation dinner the evening before or after to sidestep the post-commencement rush.

• Ask about packages. Speak with the

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catering manager at the venue to find out if there is a specific party or graduation package. Many places offer limited prix fixe menus for large groups so the kitchen can operate efficiently. Be sure the graduate’s favorite foods are included on the menu; otherwise, broaden the venue search.

• Consider an at-home affair. Although it may involve extra work, hosting at home enables you to customize the menu to reflect the guest of honor’s favorite foods. Personalizing the meal with dishes inspired by school colors, a signature cocktail or mocktail, and themed desserts can make the event even more memorable. Not all of the food has to be homemade. Hiring a caterer and setting up buffet-style chafing dishes can make hosting less labor-intensive.

• Truly take the cake. Don’t forget to feature a centerpiece dessert. Beyond the classic “Congrats, Grad!” sentiments, consider a cake topper customized to the graduate’s area of study. A stethoscope for someone entering health care or a stock market ticker for a ﬁnance major can make the cake especially unique.

• Keep the program short and sweet. Graduates have already endured plenty of lectures and speeches, so any remarks should be brief. Highlight a speciﬁc honor or achievement, and skip lengthy slideshows or photo montages. A simple framed “then and now” photo featuring the graduate on the ﬁrst day of kindergarten or preschool can serve as a meaningful conversation starter.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Park Police will conduct a largescale simulated emergency response and disaster training exercise on May 31, 2026, within Jones Beach State Park. The training will focus on coordination and emergency response during several simulated scenarios. The public should be advised that a noticeable increase in law enforcement and emergency services presence will be visible throughout the exercise near field 5 within Jones Beach State Park. The emergency management exercise will begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 12:00

p.m. on May 31, 2026. The exercise will involve personnel from Park Police, New York State Police, Nassau County Police, Wantagh Fire Department, and operational staff from Jones Beach State Park. Additionally, representatives from other federal, state, and local agencies will be involved in support of and coordination with exercise operations. The area around Jones Beach Field 5 will be closed to the public. All area traffic will be alerted to the exercises at all entry points into the park. Weapons used during training exercises are incapable of firing a live duty round.

Park Police are seeking

volunteers age 18 and older to portray park visitors from 6:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Individuals under 18 who are enrolled in an auxiliary, explorer, or similar youth program may volunteer with parental consent. Volunteers will need to provide a signed volunteer service agreement at the time of service. A copy is available at parks.ny.gov/sites/default/ files/VolunteerService AgreementEnglish. pdf. Please send completed volunteer agreements and questions concerning volunteers to ParksEmergencyMgmtExercises@parks.ny.gov. Refreshments will be available.

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Thank You For Trusting Me With 34 Years In Real Estate

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