Long Island NY - 9 by The 55 Spotlight

SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

Have you ever thought about or heard about sustainable investing?

If not, here is some information about what it means and how one can approach it. First, sustainable investing refers to socially responsible investing (SRI) as well as environmental, social and governance data investment (ESG).

A sustainable investment strategy considers environmental, social and corporate governance criteria to generate long-term competitive financial returns as well as a positive social impact.

There are two ways to look at these investment strategies. Do you want to eliminate from your portfolio certain industries because of what they do (SRI) or are you more interested in investing in

companies that do good which is called (ESG)?

SRI, or Impact Investing, generally refers to making investments based on one’s values - avoiding companies that don’t fit your morals. Some companies that are often excluded are those that make their profits from tobacco, fossil fuel, firearms, and alcohol but at the end of the day, you are the judge.

ESG investing is focused on how the company operates. Does the company have a positive or negative impact on climate change, what is the company culture, and what is the corporate structure in relation to its stakeholders?

To accomplish your goals, consider an asset manager’s history and whether they have dedicated the

necessary resources to provide ongoing research and analysis.

To maintain returns while investing sustainably, seek out a fund that is benchmarked to a broad-based index. This shows the manager’s goal is to provide market-like or better than market returns.

Research has shown that companies that best manage their environmental and social impact and follow good governance practices (ESG) are more profitable in the medium and long term. The growth in sustainable investment opportunities has been substantial as individuals choose to find investments that align with their goals.

The Global Sustainable Investment Alliance reports a 34 per cent increase in these investments over the last two years.

HOME LIBRARY

HAVE

YOU EVER

THOUGHT OF CREATING A LIBRARY IN YOUR HOME?

Home libraries are a dedicated space to relax and enjoy reading time. If you love books and have a lot of them, it is a great way to enjoy your collection. It is also a personal statement about what you’re interested in; books and mementos can serve as a history

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of your life.

It is wonderful if you have a room that can be designated as the library but that really isn’t necessary. What’s most important is to create a cozy space for your collection. A library can be created in many different spaces since a room can be multi-functional. Sometimes there is space under a staircase or in a quiet nook, maybe a wall in the dining room or the hall. A fireplace can often be surrounded by bookshelves to create a library. Even a bedroom can be an interesting place to create your library; it could even be used as a wall unit above your headboard. All it takes is a little imagination.

Your personal library isn’t necessarily just for books. It is a place to show off collections, photos, albums, plants and even art. It can all be incorporated in the design. It is really about your own interests, which is what makes it personal.

You might want to include a desk in your library wall or a hidden space to hide games and other important knick-knacks.

Keep in mind that a library should feel like a cozy retreat for reading. Depending on the space, consider

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the color palette. Deep rich colors are relaxing in a library, but it all depends on the library’s location and the design of your home. Wood paneled libraries are traditional but there are many ways to create a relaxing space, depending on your own individual aesthetic. If you have a window with surrounding bookshelves, a window seat makes the perfect addition. Add a comfortable oversized chair if you have space.

Don’t forget to consider lighting, which depends on the size and location of your library. Use picture lights mounted at the top of the shelves to illuminate books and add a dramatic effect. For a traditional look, use wall sconces.

For actual reading, recessed lighting is appropriate as it can be dimmed by preference. Table lamps are always appropriate as are floor lamps depending on the location and available space in your own library.

Whether your home is large or small, there is always a space for a personal library.

2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATES TOURNAMENT

WM Phoenix Open

FEB 5 - 8

FEB 12 - 15

FEB 19 - 22

FEB 26 - MAR 1

MARCH 5 - 8

MARCH 12 - 15

MARCH 19 - 22

MARCH 26 - 29

APRIL 2 - 5

APRIL 9 - 12

APRIL 16 - 19

+ Signature Event

TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course)

Scottsdale, AZ • USA

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Ann

Pebble Beach Golf Links

Pebble Beach, CA • USA

The Genesis Invitational

The Riviera Country Club

Pacific Palisades, CA • USA

Cognizant Classic

PGA National Resort (The Champion Course)

Palm Beach Gardens, FL • USA

Arnold Palmer Invitational

Arnold Palmer’s Bau Hill Club & Lodge

Orlando, FL • USA

Puerto Rico Open

Grand Reserve Golf Club

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

THE PLAYERS Championship

TPC Sawgrass (THE PLAYERS Stadium Course)

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL • USA

Valspar Championship

Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course)

Palm Harbor, FL • USA

Texas Children’s Houston Open

Memorial Park Golf Course

Houston, TX • USA

Valero Texas Open

TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course)

San Antonio, TX • USA

Masters Tournament

Augusta National Golf Club

Augusta, GA • USA

RBC Heritage

Harbour Town Golf Links

Hilton Head Island, SC • USA

# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored

^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

* Schedule subject to change

PREVIOUS WINNER

CBS, NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

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2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATES TOURNAMENT

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

APRIL 23 - 26

APRIL 30 - MAY 3

MAY 7 - 10

MAY 14 - 17

MAY 21 - 24

MAY 28 - 31

TPC Louisiana

Avondale, LA • USA

Miami Championship

Trump National Doral (Blue Monster)

Miami, FL • USA

Truist Championship

Quail Hollow Club

Charlotte, NC • USA

ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classis

Dunes Golf and Beach Club

Myrtle Beach, SC • USA

PGA Championship

Aronimink Golf Club

Newton Square, PA • USA

THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson

TPC Craig Ranch

McKinney, TX • USA

Charles Schwab Challenge

Colonial Country Club

Fort Worth, TX • USA

+ Signature Event

# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored

^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

* Schedule subject to change

PREVIOUS WINNER

CBS, NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

2026 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS ARE UNCERTAIN. DUE TO THE CURRENT SITUATIONS, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

FEBRUARY

FEB

1 | RESTAURANT WEEK

Long Island Restaurant Week is a tri-annual event designed to garner positive publicity and additional business for the region’s restaurants. Some of the finest food on the East Coast is available in this region less than one hour from New York City. For more info visit: longislandrestaurantweek.com

FEB 18 - 22 | FILM FESTIVAL

Winter Film Festival showcases creative fresh voices from emerging filmmakers worldwide in all genres and lengths – feature length and shorts, narrative fiction, documentary, animation, horror, web series and music videos. Our mission is to promote diversity, bridge the opportunity divide and provide a platform for under-represented artists and a variety of genres, viewpoints and approaches. For more info visit: winterfilmawards.com

MARCH

MARCH 8 | SPRING FESTIVAL

Get ready to immerse yourself in a stacked line up of top bands, art installations, and good vibes at Stereo Garden. Featuring Big Daddy Marc, Chris Ruben Band, Paris Heart, and more. Join us for a celebration of creativity and community, where talented artists and musicians come together to showcase their passion. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, an art lover, or just looking for a fun time. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/2ff58p8j

MARCH 29 | ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

The Montauk St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become a part of the fabric of the community over it’s many years, and while the faces in the crowds lining the streets have changed, what has not changed are the smiles on those faces, young and old alike, and the fun all are welcome to join in at this community event. For more info visit: montaukfriendsoferin.org

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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND

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APRIL

APRIL 3 - 12 | AUTO SHOW

There is no better place to research your next new car than the New York Auto Show. For more than a century New Yorker’s have visited the show in the millions to experience everything that the automobile industry has to offer and to get a glimpse into the future. It’s the one place where the information is comprehensive and engaging and where new technology can be explained and explored freely. For more info visit: autoshowny.com

APRIL 22 - 30 | TULIP FESTIVAL

This year, we planted over 2.5 million Tulips at our 2 farms and we can’t wait to show you all! Visit us regularly for upcoming bloom reports and for exciting news at the farm. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/34b93nyv

MAY

MAY 2 - 3 | FAIRY FESTIVAL

Join us to celebrate nature, the power of creation, and the magic of imagination with an all-day festival. As a nature preserve with four major ecosystems – forest, pond, meadow and beach – the Sands Point Preserve is perfectly situated for a celebration that combines a passion for the natural environment with a sprinkling of fairy magic! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/3wab7hdt

MAY 14 - 17 | MUSIC FESTIVAL

Join us in Montauk for the 14th Annual Montauk Music Festival from May 15 to 18th, presented by the Montauk Sun! This is a great family fun event for all ages. Come out to Montauk for 4 days of live music and fun. This year’s Main Stage will be on the Montauk Town Green. For more info visit: montaukmusicfestival.com

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND

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JUNE

JUNE 14

| STREET FAIR

Come enjoy the Annual Farmingville Street Fair where hundreds of vendors offering a variety of crafts, toys, jewelry, clothing, accessories and other wares have filled Portion Road making the Street Fair the greatest event in Farmingville. Since the first year we scheduled live music, classic cars, bounce structures, beer garden, food, and more providing an all around great time for the entire family to enjoy. For more info visit: farmingvillestreetfair.com

JUNE

-30 | EMPIRE STATE FAIR

The Empire State Fair is returning! The all-new fair features amazing entertainment such as the Royal Hanneford Big Top Circus, Kid Bucks Game Show, an educational experience at the Exotic Animal Zoo, and brand-new amusement rides and attractions. See you at the fair! For more info visit: empirestatefair.com

JULY

JULY 4 |

INDEPENDENCE DAY

A Fireworks extravaganza above the shores of Jones Beach State Park simulcast to a musical array of patriotic songs. Celebrate America’s birthday with a bang! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3awd3mZ

JULY 5 - 6 |

AIR SHOW

We are pleased to welcome back the United States Air Force Thunderbirds as our headliners, as well as many other incredible performers. Stay tuned for additional announcements! We look forward to seeing you all there! For more info visit: fourleafairshow.com

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND

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AUGUST

AUG TBA | FILM FESTIVAL

The Asian American International Film Festival features independent films by both local artists of Asian descent and international filmmakers, whose original works shed light on the Asian community. Grab your popcorn and enjoy new films by amazing artists! For more info visit: aaiff.org

AUG

- 23 | WINE & FOOD FEST

Sample ciders, spirits or wines from New York’s and beyond most renowned producers. And, if you like what you taste, purchase by the bottle to go or buy a case to enjoy your favorites all year long. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs and enjoy savory foods while rocking to the rhythmic sounds of live music. There will be arts and crafts, exhibits, and two full days of live entertainment! For more info visit: putnamcountywinefest.com

AUG 22 - 23 | HONEY FESTIVAL

Dive into the Sweetness of Summer at the Honey Festival! Embark on a journey of sweetness and sunshine at our Honey Festival! Join us for a day filled with the golden glow of sunflowers and the delightful taste of honey as we celebrate the vital role of bees and pollinators in our ecosystem. For more info visit: water-drinker.com

SEPTEMBER

SEPT 12 - 13 | GARLIC FESTIVAL

The Long Island Garlic Festival is all about celebrating the harvest season, supporting local vendors, enjoying great garlic, and most of all, having fun on our 40 acre farm. Tiptoe through the Sunflower Fields, go Pumpkin Picking, get lost in the Corn Maze, go on a Garlic Scavenger Hunt, board the Waterdrinker Express, learn all about Garlic on the Musical Hay Ride… and let’s not forget about all the GARLICKY goodness at the Vendor Market! For more info visit: water-drinker.com

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND

OCTOBER

OCT TBA | APPLE FEST

The Apple Festival brings the best of the fall season to Long Island; showcasing an assortment of apple varieties, Karl Ehmer specialty meats, grilled bratwurst, a wide variety of cheeses, and plenty of mouth-watering baked goods, jellies, fudge, strudel, and more. For more info visit: millneck.org

NOVEMBER

NOV 6 - 15 | COMEDY FESTIVAL

Created in 2004, the New York Comedy Festival is a seven-day festival featuring more than 200 comedians performing in more than 100 shows at over 20 venues throughout the City. Enjoy this

week full of laughter and joy! For more info visit: nycomedyfestival.com

DECEMBER

DEC TBA | DICKENS FESTIVAL

And not to be missed, the Charles Dickens Annual Festival happening the first weekend of December when the Village of Port Jefferson magically transforms into the Dickensian era with streets filled with roaming characters.The cherished tradition features live performances, theatrical presentations, artisan vendors, and the eye-catching Festival of Trees. For more info visit: portjeffarts.org

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE PLAY START SESSION

MAY 24 - SUN 12:00 PM First Round

MAY 24 - SUN 8:15 PM First Round

MAY 25 - MON 12:00 PM First Round

MAY 25 - MON 8:15 PM First Round

MAY 26 - TUE 12:00 PM First Round

MAY 26 - TUE 8:15 PM First Round

MAY 27 - WED 12:00 PM Second Round

MAY 27 - WED 8:15 PM Second Round

MAY 28 - THU 10:00 AM Second Round

MAY 28 - THU 8:15 PM Second Round

MAY 29 - FRI 12:00 PM Third Round

MAY 29 - FRI 8:15 PM Third Round

MAY 30 - SAT 12:00 PM Third Round

MAY 30 - SAT 8:15 PM Third Round

MAY 31 - SUN 12:00 PM Fourth Round

MAY 31 - SUN 8:15 PM Fourth Round

JUNE 1 - MON 12:00 PM Fourth Round

JUNE 1 - MON 8:15 PM Fourth Round

JUNE 2 - TUE 12:00 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 2 - TUE 8:15 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 3 - WED 12:00 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 3 - WED 8:15 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 4 - THUR 2:30 PM Ladies Semifinals

JUNE 5 - FRI 2:30 PM Mens Semifinals

JUNE 5 - FRI 8:15 PM Mens Semifinals

JUNE 6 - SAT 3:00 PM Ladies Singles Final, Mens Double Final

JUNE 7 - SUN 3:00 PM Mens Singles Final, Ladies Doubles Final

DATE

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

JUNE 29 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1st Round

JUNE 30 - TUE 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1st Round

JULY 1 - WED 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round

JULY 2 - THU 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2rd Round

JULY 3 - FRI 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 4 - SAT 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 5 - SUN 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round

JULY 6 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies’ 4th Round

JULY 7- TUE 11:00 AM Ladies' and Gentlemen's Quarterfinals

JULY 8 - WED 11:00 AM Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Quarterfinals

JULY 9 - THU 11:00 AM Ladies’ Semifinals

JULY 9 - THU 11:00 AM Gentlemen’s Semifinals

JULY 10 - FRI 11:00 AM Ladies’ Singles Final & Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles

JULY 11 - SAT 11:00 AM Gentlemen’s Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

HISTORIC TOWNS IN

Florida

If you happen to be driving through Florida, there are several interesting and historic towns worth visiting. St. Augustine, the oldest town in America, is located on the northeast coast of the state, just south of Jacksonville. Then head south to enjoy the Lake Wales Ridge, which includes the towns of Sebring, Lake Placid and Avon.

First settled in 1565 by the Spanish and predating both Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, St Augustine was first seen by Admiral Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Visit Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th century Spanish stone fortress, and the cobblestoned historic downtown that includes over 30 historic houses. Remember, this is the city known for the Fountain of Youth, so be sure to see the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where

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visitors can drink from the spring. Next, head south to Lake Wales, which has an ‘old Florida” vibe and is one of the most scenic areas in the state. Known for its cypress trees, citrus groves and abundance of freshwater lakes, Lake Wales can’t be missed! Enjoy the history of these towns and don’t miss Highlands State Park for hiking, biking, birding and a variety of rare and native plants.

Sebring has undergone a major restoration of its historic downtown. There is a lot to see and do, particularly if you are a history buff. Sebring was founded in 1912 by Ohio pottery manufacturer George E. Sebring and is now designated as a 1920’s Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as “The City on the Circle” because of its design

which is based on the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis. With a circular park, all roads radiate from there which makes Sebring very distinctive.

Lake Placid was founded in 1927 and has two nicknames: the “Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World”. It is known for its art scene with over 50 murals throughout the town, it is a sight to behold. Some of the murals are as large as 175 feet

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ENJOY YOUR

Travels

wide and 30 feet tall and depict the town’s history including the town’s Native American heritage. There is also the Historical Society Depot Museum located in the original railroad depot. And don’t miss the interesting boutiques and restaurants in the downtown area.

Avon Park is known as the “City of Charm” because of its historic downtown and small town feel. It was founded in 1886 and is the oldest town in the region, It was named after Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Visit the Avon Park Depot Museum and the Museum of Florida Arts and Culture. Babe Ruth and Clark Gable stayed at the historic Hotel Jacarinda downtown.

WELLNESS TRENDS FOR 2026

In 2026, there will be a focus on fitness and AI will be a part of this trend. It will revolutionize the industry through personalization, instant feedback and data tracking. The fitness trend has shifted from short-term goals to long-term lifestyle concerns. People are focused on the number of years lived in good health, not just lifespan. There is an emphasis on fundamentals like strength training, consistent sleep, stress reduction and a nutrient rich diet as well as preventative health care.

Technology plays a part in this shift toward mind and body fitness as real time data becomes available. Wearable technology, artificial intelligence and advanced

analytics give individuals a unique understanding of their body.

Wearables like Apple Watches, WHOOP, and Oura Rings increase our knowledge of how our bodies are functioning. Not only do wearables count steps and steadiness, but they are also capable of tracking sleep quality and recovery, heart rate variations, skin temperature and other variables. With all this information, personalized programs can be developed that incorporate diet, exercise and recovery.

The American College of Sports Medicine ranked wearable technology as the #1 fitness trend because of its ability to integrate

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nutrition, sleep, mental health, and physical performance. AI can analyze all the data and recognize patterns. Imagine being informed that your recovery is lagging or your walking isn’t steady. Then it tells you how to correct through exercise or adjustments to sleep routines, nutrition or stress management strategies.

There is also a new emphasis on recovery from a workout. It is now considered a critical component of any fitness program as it enhances performance, longevity and overall

wellness. Gyms today often offer meditation corners, hyperbaric chambers, red light therapy, cold plunge pools, and cryotherapy stations. Additionally, there are somatic healing offerings. These include yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and dance - all of which focus on the mind body connection.

The latest trends in fitness are holistic and recognize that mental and emotional health are inseparable from physical performance.