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FourLeaf Federal Credit Union and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation are proud to announce the 2026 FourLeaf Air Show and Fireworks at Jones Beach, a three-day celebration of America’s 250th anniversary taking place over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
The celebration will begin on Saturday, July 4, with the FourLeaf America 250 Fireworks at Jones Beach, followed by the FourLeaf Air Show on Sunday, July 5 and Monday, July 6. Together, the events will create one of New York State’s signature Semiquincentennial celebrations, bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors to Jones Beach for a weekend honoring the nation’s history, military service and spirit of independence.
As announced by Governor Kathy Hochul as part of
New York State’s America 250 commemoration, the special holiday weekend will combine two of Long Island’s most anticipated summer traditions - the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach, one of the nation’s most preeminent air shows and a cherished Long Island institution, and a spectacular beachfront fireworks display - for a once in a generation celebration.
The FourLeaf America 250 Fireworks on July 4 will feature a 25-minute fireworks display by Garden State Fireworks beginning at 9:30 p.m. Spectators will enjoy vibrant colors and a musical array of patriotic songs. WALK 97.5 FM and KJOY-98.3 will also offer listeners a live simulcast of the show.
The celebration continues with a truly extraordinary international salute to America’s 250th anniversary at the FourLeaf Air Show on

July 5 and 6. Returning to Long Island for their 11th headliner performance, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels will be joined by distinguished military demonstration teams from Canada and the United Kingdom. This

historic international collaboration will create a display unlike anything previously seen at Jones Beach and one of the most distinctive air show lineups ever presented in the United States.
The 2026 lineup includes the first-ever New York appearance of the Royal Air Force Red Arrows, one of the world’s most renowned aerial demonstration teams, and the return of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds to Long Island for the first time since 2018. Also joining the celebration from the United Kingdom will be the British Army Parachute Display Team – Red Devils. Additional U.S. military performers include the United States Army Golden Knights, the 106th Rescue Wing, and the 105th Airlift Wing featuring the C-17 Globemaster III flyover.
“The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will be one of the most memorable events in our history as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary right here on Long Island,” said Linda Armyn, President and CEO of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. “From the Blue Angels soaring overhead to the fireworks over Jones Beach on Independence Day, this special weekend will celebrate the spirit of our
nation and bring families together for an unforgettable tribute to American pride and tradition.”
Civilian teams set to perform include current reigning Air Masters Cup Series champion and current Sky Grand Prix Champion, Aarron Deliu; the American Airpower Museum Warbirds; and the Farmingdale State College Flying Rams.
“This special Fourth of July weekend will transform Jones Beach into one of New York’s signature destinations for America’s Semiquincentennial celebration,” said George Gorman, Regional Director of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “With the Blue Angels returning, international performers joining the lineup, and our annual fireworks spectacular lighting up the shoreline, these will be the perfect events for families to celebrate our country’s history at one of Long Island’s most iconic locations.”
Fans can also tune in to the live air show broadcast on WHLI 1100 AM and WHLI 104.7 FM for live playby-play coverage throughout the performances, offering narration and updates for spectators watching from Jones Beach and
surrounding areas.
The FourLeaf Air Show App is now available for 2026, newly redesigned to keep users in the know about all the events lined up to celebrate America’s 250th this Fourth of July weekend. When users open the app, they will now see “Featured Events” and “Featured Performers”. From there, users can explore all other categories by clicking on the icon in the top left corner and get more information on performers, sponsors, FAQs, and more.
The FourLeaf Air Show and Fireworks at Jones Beach is sponsored by FourLeaf Federal Credit Union; New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; Natural Heritage Trust; Newsday; WABC-TV Channel 7; Connoisseur Media Long Island; Catholic Health; PSEG Long Island; Optimum; and the Foundation for Long Island State Parks, Inc.
The FourLeaf Air Show and Fireworks are free to the public, though the standard New York State $10 parking fee applies for park entry each day. Additional event details, transportation information and updates are available at: FourLeaf Air Show Official Website, Facebook and/or Instagram.








































America’s semiquincentennial marks a great time to explore 250 years of United States history. There’s no shortage of ways to engage with American history, which has been well documented in books, films, magazines, websites, and more. Visiting a historic preservation site is another way to experience American history. The National Trust for Historic Preservation was founded more than 75 years ago as a means to preserving places that tell a story about America’s history as well as the history of the land that predates the formation of the United States. Many such places exist across the United States, and the following are some those interested in engaging with American history can visit.
• Fioli, Woodside, California: This estate situated on the unceded ancestral lands of the Ramaytush Ohlone serves as a community cultural center featuring 654 acres of stunning landscape. The National Trust notes the estate was originally built as a private residence in 1917 but was opened to the public in 1975. The site features 16 acres of English Renaissance gardens, a roughly seven-acre orchard, and a nature preserve with eight miles of hiking trails.


• Acoma Sky City, Pueblo of Acoma, New Mexico: The National Trust notes Acoma Sky City is the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States. A tour of Sky city may include a visit to San Esteban del Rey, a seventeenth century church. Visitors also may view pueblo dwellings located along the 367-foot-tall mesa that’s been inhabited for nearly 1,000 years.
• Brucemore, Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Iowa’s only National Trust site is among the most significant cultural landscapes in the midwestern United States. Brucemore was constructed in the late nineteenth century and is a must-see locale for anyone interested in the stories of industrialists, artisans, architects, and others during a point in American history that has become synonymous with innovation. Visitors to Brucemore can explore the 26-acre estate and some of its more unique and notable features, including the Tahitian Room and Grizzly Bar added to the estate when Margaret and Howard Hall, the last residents of the mansion at Brucemore, called the grounds home.
• The Shadows, New Iberia, Louisiana: The Shadows was built nearly 200 years ago along the banks of the Bayou Teche. More than 200 men, women and children were enslaved at this site before the start of the American Civil War, and a visit to the site today provides a balanced and nuanced take on what life on a sugar cane plantation was like for property owners and enslaved individuals. A trunk in the attic of the property preserved thousands of letters, photographs, and receipts, which are continuously researched and utilized to provide unique insight into a much-studied period in American history.
Grilling is a beloved summer tradition, but it’s not always the healthiest way to eat. Classic backyard barbecue fare like hot dogs and hamburgers may be crowd favorites, but there are simple ways to enjoy the flavor of grilling while maintaining a nutritious diet:
• Choose healthier proteins: Replace burgers and hot dogs with options like fish or skinless chicken breasts. If you still crave a burger, opt for lean ground poultry instead of beef to cut down on saturated fat.
• Practice moderation: The relaxed atmosphere of barbecues can lead to overeating. Swap out chips and heavy sides for healthier choices like fresh vegetables, fruit salad or chickpea salad, and keep portion sizes reasonable.

Health experts recommend about three ounces of meat per serving, with no more than six ounces.
• Skip the salt: While salt enhances flavor, too much can contribute to high blood pressure. Try a salt-free rub made with spices like chili powder, garlic powder and paprika to add bold flavor without extra sodium.
• Add more vegetables: Grilled vegetables are both tasty and nutritious. Brush them with a healthy oil like olive oil to prevent sticking and bring out their natural flavors over the flame.
With a few simple adjustments, grilling can be just as healthy as it is delicious, making your next backyard barbecue both enjoyable and better for you.




Americans celebrate Independence Day every July 4th, commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence and a newly-founded nation’s freedom from British rule. Although just about anywhere in the United States is a good place to celebrate the Fourth of July, certain places can make the holiday that much more poignant. Here are five unique places to celebrate America’s birthday.
1. Delaware: Celebrants can head to Delaware, which is home to popular seaside towns like Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach and state parks like Cape Henlopen. Delaware became America’s first state when it was the first of the original 13 colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
2. New York, NY: The bright lights of the Big Apple may seem a little dimmer when compared with the fireworks display that takes place in the waters surrounding Manhattan and outer boroughs. New York City can be an exciting place to celebrate America’s independence.
3. Boston: Boston has a long and patriotic history and is considered to be the birthplace of the American Revolution, making it an ideal backdrop for July 4 festivities. The Boston Pops

hold a free concert on the Fourth of July, which concludes with the firing of real cannons.
4. Traverse City, Mich.: Revelers can celebrate July 4 in this city and taste cherries in the “Cherry Capital of the World.” Luckily, red cherries make up one of the colors of the American flag’s signature red, white and blue.

5. Washington, D.C.: What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in the nation’s capital? With impressive landmarks, museums to explore, and a parade on Constitution Avenue, D.C. is a festive town come July 4 and one worthy of a visit any time of year.
The Declaration of Independence and July Fourth are indelibly linked. But you may need to be an American history buff to know that the link is less direct than it may seem.
The Continental Congress declared American independence on July 2, even though the final wording of the Declaration of Independence had yet to be approved. That approval came two days later, which is why American independence is celebrated on July 4. Furthermore,
the Declaration of Independence now on display at the National Archives in Washington, D.C., was not signed on July 4. The signatures on
that document, which have been a source of pride for descendants of the signers for centuries, were written on August 2, a full month after the Congress declared its independence from Great Britain. And in a reflection of life in the 18th century, Great Britain did not even receive the declaration until November of 1776.








Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Three winners will be chosen - one in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10.
Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to Splish Splash. All entries must be submitted by July 27. One entry per person.
Please mail your submission to:
Long Island Media Group Attn: Marketing 565 Broadhollow Road Suite 3
Farmingdale, NY 11735
Name: Age: Phone Number: Email address: Town:

































































































































































































It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear friend and coworker, Paul.
For more than 15 years, Paul worked alongside us with dedication, kindness, and an unwavering work ethic. He was always there to lend a helping hand, whether it was assisting a coworker or helping a customer nd exactly what they needed. His friendly smile, patience, and willingness to go above and beyond made a lasting impression on everyone who walked through our doors.
To us, Paul was more than a co-worker, he was family. We will deeply miss his laughter, his friendship, and the countless memories we shared together.
ank you, Paul, for all that you gave to this store, our customers, and our lives.
You will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
e Exotic Wines & Liquors Family


































As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, some may wonder where the name “America” comes from. According to the Library of Congress, it is derived from Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who suggested the lands reached by Christopher Columbus in 1492 were part of a separate continent. In 1507, German mapmaker Martin Waldseemüller honored Vespucci by naming the region “America” on a map—the first to depict it as a separate continent—now held by the Library of Congress and often called “America’s Birth Certificate.”


SATURDAY, JULY 4th
thru MONDAY, JULY 6th
2026 FOURLEAF AIR SHOW AND FIREWORKS


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

at Jones Beach State Park, 1 Ocean Parkway in Wantagh. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to announce the 2026 FourLeaf Air Show and Fireworks at Jones Beach State Park! Festivities will kick off on Saturday, July 4, Independence Day, with a Fireworks Program from 6:00pm to 10:00pm. Following Fireworks will be the FourLeaf Air Show, on Sunday, July 5, and Monday, July 6 at 10:00am – 3:00pm, which will feature the United States Navy Blue Angels as the headliner. Created out of a desire to salute America’s heroes and bring a truly patriotic event to Jones Beach State Park, the FourLeaf Air Show has grown into the premier North American air show for the United States’ Semiquincentennial (250th) Anniversary! No general admission ticket needed to attend, just a $10 Vehicle Use Fee onsite. For additional information about the Jones Beach Chalet experience please contact jonebeachchalet@parks. ny.gov or call 631-321-3510
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8th
7:00PM
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: STRAWBERRY FIELDS –BEATLES TRIBUTE
FRIDAY, JULY 10th
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: SOMETHIN' FRESH



The Town of Babylon hosts its 2026 Summer Concert Series at the Tanner Park Bandshell, 400 Baylawn Avenue in Copiague. Join us for an evening of live music as part of the Town of Babylon’s Summer Concert Series. Featuring free weekly outdoor performances and tribute bands.
Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a great night of entertainment. Weather permitting. For more information, please visit https:// townofbabylonny.gov/calendar.aspx
SATURDAY, JULY 11th
9:00AM-1:00PM
AMITYVILLE FARMER'S MARKET
The Amityville Farmer's Market runs Saturday mornings on the Great Lawn at 25 Broadway in Amityville, next to the historic First United Methodist Church. Amityville Farmer’s Market is sponsored by the Bay Village Civic Association. There will be a local farmer, and many vendors. For more information, contact amityfarmers market @gmail.com or bayvillagecivic@aol.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 18th
10:00AM-4:00PM
WANTAGH PRESERVATION SOCIETY'S 5TH ANNUAL ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
Rain date Saturday July 19th. On museum grounds 1700 Wantagh Ave, in Wantagh. Cars from the 1960's & older. Entrance fee - $1. Refreshments for sale, museum complex sites will be open, 50/50 , music. For more information, email: wantaghmuseum@ gmail.com
THRUJULY 19th
FAIR HOURS: 5:00PM-11:00PM weekdays and NOON-11:00PM
Saturday - Sunday EMPIRE STATE FAIR at Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult age 21+ Enjoy Fireworks by Grucci, midway rides, family entertainment, favorite fair food & more! For more information, please call 866-666-3247 or Empire State Fair
FRIDAY, JULY 24th
7:00PM-11:00PM
DISCO NIGHT
LIVE music by Deverne Williams & The Vintage Soul Band, Buffet dinner, beer/wine/soda, dessert & coffee included. $45 per person. Call Barbara Napoli 631-786-9306 for advance reservations. Brumidi Lodge Sons & Daughters of Italy in America, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park
MONDAY, JULY 27th thru FRIDAY, JULY 31st
5:30PM-8:00PM VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Ages 4 through 11, $15 per child includes dinner nightly. Complete & return registration form & payment by July 9th, available on the website ALL4GOD.ORG. Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-0221, churchon231@gmail.com
NOW THRU SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th TIMES VARY
2026 JONES BEACH BANDSHELL SUMMER CONCERT
The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation announces the 2026 Bandshell Summer Concert Series at Jones Beach State Park! The Bandshell hosts free events at the Field 4 Boardwalk. Every night through September 6th (excluding July 1st – July 6th) Program is sponsored by the Natural Heritage Trust, WBAB 102.3 and WBLI 106.1 Radio Stations. For up to date information on performance status and schedule, contact Jones Beach State Park at 516-785-1600.

More than 332 million people live in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. There’s a good chance that many of those individuals will be hosting or attending parties to celebrate Independence Day on July 4th.
Those planning a holiday gathering can keep these tips in mind as they prepare to celebrate with family and friends:
• Use a second grill. Grilling for a crowd can be timeconsuming, especially on a hot summer day. Cut down on cooking time by using an extra grill. Cook hamburgers and hot dogs on one grill and reserve the other for foods like chicken and sausages that require longer cooking times.
• Avoid constant checking. Resist the urge to repeatedly flip, press or move meat while it cooks. Too much handling can cause food to lose moisture and flavor.
• Distract insects. Bees are attracted to sweet scents, while wasps and hornets often gravitate toward meat. Place a saucer of sweet soda and a few food scraps in a distant corner of the yard to lure insects away from guests and dining areas.
• Prioritize pool safety. If your celebration includes


swimming, consider hiring a lifeguard or designating a responsible adult to focus solely on monitoring the pool. Hosts and guests can become distracted, making dedicated supervision especially important.
• Give neighbors advance notice. July 4th gatherings are expected, but it’s courteous to let neighbors know about your plans, including start and end times. If you know them well, consider extending an invitation.
• Leave fireworks to the professionals. Even where fireworks are legal, professional displays are generally safer. Fireworks can create hazards from falling debris, and sparklers can reach temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, posing a significant burn risk.
• Create a patriotic playlist. Use your favorite streaming service to assemble a mix of patriotic songs, summer favorites and party classics. Keep the volume at a level that encourages conversation.
With a little preparation and attention to safety, hosts can create a fun and memorable July 4th celebration for everyone involved.
When Americans celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States throughout 2026, names like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams are sure to come up. While those men played major roles in the nation’s founding, many other Founding Fathers also made significant contributions. America’s semiquincentennial is an ideal time to recognize all who helped shape the country, including some lesser-known founders whose influence has faded over the past 250 years.
• William Livingston: Born in Albany, New York, in 1723, William Livingston was a prominent attorney before the American Revolutionary War. After moving to Elizabethtown, New Jersey, in 1772, he became New Jersey’s representative to the Continental Congress. In 1776, he was appointed brigadier general of the New Jersey militia and, a year later, became governor of New Jersey, a position he held until his death in 1790. Despite being targeted by British forces, Livingston remained a steadfast supporter of independence and later served as a delegate
to the Constitutional Convention, signing the U.S. Constitution in 1787.
• William Hooper: Born in Boston in 1742, William Hooper established himself as a successful attorney in Wilmington, North Carolina. Appointed Deputy Attorney General of the colony in 1770, he initially supported British authority but later became a strong advocate for independence. Hooper served as a North Carolina delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774 and earned the nickname “Prophet of Independence” after predicting the colonies would break from Britain. A signer of the Declaration of Independence, Hooper also contributed much of his legal earnings to the Revolutionary cause. His support for independence made him a target of British forces, who burned his home in 1781.
• John Witherspoon: Born in Scotland in 1723, John Witherspoon immigrated to America in 1768 to become president of the College of New Jersey, now Princeton University. He is the only active clergyman and college president to sign the Declaration
of Independence. Witherspoon later signed the Articles of Confederation and supported ratification of the Constitution. During his tenure, the college educated many influential figures, including James Madison and Aaron Burr. A strong supporter of independence, Witherspoon often spoke against British interference in colonial affairs.
• Roger Sherman: Born in Newton, Massachusetts, in 1721, Roger Sherman worked in several professions before studying law and eventually becoming a judge of Connecticut’s Superior Court. Though initially cautious about colonial resistance, he later embraced the independence movement and served as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. Sherman helped draft the Declaration of Independence and contributed to the Articles of Confederation. He remains the only person to sign the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution.

Americans celebrate Independence Day every July 4. The holiday has become synonymous with summer fun, as grand fireworks displays and backyard barbecues are integral components of many people’s July 4 celebrations.
As Americans and residents of the United States prepare for some festive Fourth of July celebrations, they can keep these interesting facts related to Independence Day in mind.
• There have been many iterations of the American flag. The American flag has become an iconic symbol of freedom recognized across the globe since the United States declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776. But few July 4th celebrants may know that the current version is the 27th iteration of the American flag. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the current version of the flag officially became the flag on July 4, 1960.
• More than half of all
Americans own an American flag. A 2023 poll from WalletHub found that 57 percent of Americans own an American flag. And that’s not the only way Americans show their national pride, as the same poll found that roughly one in three Americans intended to purchase patriotic merchandise for July 4th.
• The United States is not the only place to celebrate American independence. Such celebrations occur in various countries, including Australia, Denmark, Ireland, and Norway. The festivities in Rebild National Park in Denmark are believed to be the largest celebration of American independence outside the United States.
• The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council estimates that 150 million hot dogs are consumed on July 4. Though there’s no corresponding estimate related to how many hamburgers Americans eat on July 4, various reports suggest Americans eat roughly 50 billion burgers
The United States is the fourth largest country in the world in terms of total area. According to The World Factbook, the U.S. features more than 9.8 million square kilometers (roughly 3.8 million square miles), and the country’s terrain is as diverse as the people who call the nation home. There may be no better way to gain a feel for America and its inhabitants than getting behind the wheel and taking a road trip, but there’s many other ways to gain insight into what makes each state unique. Each state in the United States has at least one nickname, and those monikers can be a fun way to spark discussions and learn more about each of the 50 states that make up the country.
• Alabama: Cotton State, Yellowhammer State
• Alaska: The Last Frontier
• Arizona: Grand Canyon State
• Arkansas: Natural State
• California: Golden State
• Colorado: Centennial State
• Connecticut: Nutmeg State, Constitution State
• Delaware: The First State, Diamond State
• Florida: Sunshine State
• Georgia: Peach State, Empire State of the South
annually, so it’s fair to conclude many a burger will be consumed this Independence Day.
• July is a popular month for nations to celebrate their independence. In addition to the United States, various countries, including Algeria (July 5), Argentina (July 9), The Bahamas (July 10), Belarus (July 3), Burundi (July 1), Canada (July 1), Cape Verde (July 5), Colombia (July 20), Kiribati (July 12), and Liberia (July 26), celebrate their Independence Day in July.
• John Adams, a Founding Father of the United States and the second president in the country’s history, felt Americans should celebrate their independence from Great Britain on July 2. That’s because the Continental Congress voted for independence on July 2, 1776. However, the Declaration of Independence was not approved for two more days, thus making July 4 the day to celebrate America’s independence from Great Britain.

• Hawaii: Aloha State
• Idaho: Gem State
• Illinois: Prairie State, Land of Lincoln
• Indiana: Hoosier State
• Iowa: Hawkeye State, Corn State
• Kansas: Sunflower State
• Kentucky: Bluegrass State
• Louisiana: Pelican State, Creole State, Sugar State
• Maine: Pine Tree State
• Maryland: Free State, Old Line State
• Massachusetts: Bay State, Old Colony State
• Michigan: Wolverine State, Great Lake State
• Minnesota: North Star State, Gopher State, Land of 10,000 Lakes, Land of Sky-Blue Waters
• Mississippi: Magnolia State
• Missouri: Show Me State
• Montana: Treasure State, Big Sky Country
• Nebraska: Cornhusker State, Beef State
• Nevada: Silver State, Sagebrush State, Battle Born State
• New Hampshire: Granite State
• New Jersey: Garden State
• New Mexico: Land of Enchantment
• New York: Empire State
• North Carolina: Tar Heel State, Old North State
• North Dakota: Flickertail State, Sioux State, Peace Garden State
• Ohio: Buckeye State
• Oklahoma: Sooner State
• Oregon: Beaver State
• Pennsylvania: Keystone State
• Rhode Island: Ocean State, Little Rhody
• South Carolina: Palmetto State
• South Dakota: The Mount Rushmore State
• Tennessee: Volunteer State
• Texas: Lone Star State
• Utah: Beehive State
• Vermont: Green Mountain State
• Virginia: The Old Dominion, Mother of Presidents
• Washington: Evergreen State, Chinook State
• West Virginia: Mountain State
• Wisconsin: Badger State, America’s Dairyland
• Wyoming: Equality State











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Many people 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.



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.



As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, some may wonder where the name “America” comes from. According to the Library of Congress, it is derived from Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who suggested the lands reached by Christopher Columbus in 1492 were part of a separate continent. In 1507, German mapmaker Martin Waldseemüller honored Vespucci by naming the region “America” on a map—the first to depict it as a separate continent— now held by the Library of Congress and often called “America’s Birth Certificate.”
Help Needed - @ New York Blood Center has issued a blood emergency. The blood supply has dropped from 5 days to a 2-3 day supply, and 1-2 day supply of type O; NYBC warns this could signal more severe shortages in the weeks ahead. Please sign up to donate at a convenient donation location near you: smarturl.it/NYBC_Urgent














Escuelas Publicas de Copiague Programa de Comidas de Verano Gratuitas
Comidas gratuitas disponibles para niños y adolescentes de 18 años o menos. Abierto a todos: Sin inscripción ni costo. El USDA exige que las comidas se consuman en el lugar.
Libreria Publica de Copiague
50 Deauville Blvd, Copiague
Julio 7 – Agosto 21
Martes, Miercoles & Viernes
Almuerzo 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Patio de Deauville Gardens East
45 Waldo St, Copiague
Julio 6 – Agosto 20
Lunes a Jueves
Almuerzo 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Picina de North Lindenhurst
1700 Straight Path, Lindenhurst
Julio 6 – Agosto 20
Lunes a Jueves
Almuerzo 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Picina de North Amityville
300 New Highway, Amityville
Julio 6 – Agosto 20
Lunes a Jueves
Almuerzo 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM






Contacto para más información: Departamento de Cafetería Teléfono: (631) 842-4010 x451



Watermelon is a summertime staple. Each summer, stores and farm stands have an abundance of watermelons on display, and many people feel no picnic or barbecue is complete without watermelon.
Watermelon is a refreshing option on hot days. It’s ideal sliced and served, or can be included in fruit salads, smoothies, or even “spiked” cocktails. The key to a tasty watermelon is knowing how to pick one that is ripe while serving watermelon comes down to
understanding some easycutting strategies.
• Choose a watermelon that has a firm, symmetrical shape. Avoid melons with bumps, dents, or cuts.
• Watermelons should be relatively heavy. They’re 92 percent water, and that juiciness should be reflected in a substantial weight for the melon’s size.
• Watermelon.org advises looking for a creamy yellow spot on the underside of the watermelon. This is

called the “ground spot.” It indicates where the melon sat on the ground and ripened in the sun. Once cut from the vine, a watermelon has about three to four weeks to be consumed.
• All parts of the watermelon are edible, including the seeds and rind. The rind can be pickled or cut up to use in stir-fry dishes.
When bringing watermelon to an event, it is a courtesy to bring it already sliced or cut up. This ensures the host or hostess does not have to tackle what can sometimes be a chore. Here are three techniques to cut a watermelon easily: Cubes
1. Cut both ends off of the watermelon.
2. Stand the watermelon on one sliced end. Use the knife to slice down and cut off the rind.
3. After removing the

rind from all sides of the melon, cut into discs about 1⁄2-inch in thickness.
4. Then cut those discs into cubes.
Slices
1. Cut the watermelon in half lengthwise.
2. Take one cut half and place it cut-side down.
3. Cut the watermelon into slices.
4. Repeat for the other cut half.
Strips


1. Cut the watermelon as you would with the slices. Rather than leaving it in large slices, turn the watermelon and cut the same size slices in the opposite direction. This creates strips that are easy for kids to grab and maneuver.


2. Repeat with the other half of the watermelon in the same manner.














