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Finding Balance In An Imbalanced World
By JoAnn Cilla
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
Anne Lamott
No matter who you are or how old you are, life has a way of pulling you in six directions at once. Whether you are running a business, raising a houseful of kids, enjoying retirement, or just starting out after college, the noise and pace of life today can leave you stretched thin and worn down. The good news is that balance is not reserved for people with perfect schedules or unlimited time. It is available to anyone willing to make a few important choices each day.
JOANN CILLA
luxury; it is maintenance. When you are wellrested, problems that seemed overwhelming the night before often look manageable in the morning. Protecting your sleep time is one of the best investments you can make in living a balanced life.
I learned this the hard way. For years, I treated rest as a reward rather than a requirement. I skipped meals or grabbed whatever was convenient, and measured success by how busy I felt rather than how well I was doing. When I opened my company in early 2021, those habits caught up with me fast. The demands of being your own boss have a way of exposing every crack in your foundation. I realized that if I wanted the business to survive, I had to take better care of the person running it. Start with what you eat. Food is fuel, and the quality of what goes into your body directly affects how clearly you think, how steadily you work, and how well you handle stress. You do not need a complicated diet. Lean toward whole foods, cut back on processed snacks, and stay hydrated. These choices can have a meaningful impact in how you feel during the day.
Sleep is a great equalizer. Seven to eight hours of quality rest is not a
Get moving…in the right direction. During the day, give yourself permission to step away. As a business owner who often keeps long and unpredictable hours, I made it a rule to take breaks throughout the day, even when it felt unproductive. A tenminute walk around the block is not wasted time. It clears my head, lowers my blood pressure, and often leads to better thinking when I return. Running myself into the ground does not make me more productive. It makes me exhausted and harder to be around. And movement doesn’t require a gym membership. It simply means getting your body in motion, consistently.
Try putting the phone down. Perhaps the most underrated adjustment any of us can make right now is using our phones less. Social media and endless scrolling can make you anxious, outraged, and engaged. Logging off a little earlier each day is an act of quiet self-preservation.
Continued On 5
Finding Balance In An Imbalanced World
Continued From 3
Balance is built one small decision at a time. Eat well, sleep enough, move your body, step outside, and be a little more intentional about
where your attention goes. The world will remain chaotic. How you meet it each morning is entirely up to you. I’ll see you around town.
Did You Know?
Thereis no definitive age when a child may need to get eyeglasses. However, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus notes that children’s visual systems are still developing during the first 12 years of their life, and during this period wearing glasses can be important for normal vision development. Glasses can help straighten crossed or misaligned eyes, bolster weak vision caused by differences in vision between a child’s eyes, and even protect the stronger eye. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children begin vision screening around age 3 and receive annual screenings each year at ages 4, 5 and 6. After that, screening is recommended when children turn 8, 10, 12, and 15. Of course, parents who begin to suspect their children are having trouble with their vision are urged to take the child to an ophthalmologist once such suspicions arise. Some notable signs include inexplicable declines in academic performance, children sitting closer to the television than they once did and children’s own remarks regarding their vision if they say anything at all.
JULY HAPPENINGS
EVERY THURSDAY thru AUGUST 23rd
6:45PM-10:00PM
BINGO THURSDAY NIGHTS
At Knights of Columbus, 78 Hempstead Ave. in Lynbrook. $2000 Cash Prizes. Doors open 5:00pm. - Games Start 6:45pm. We have computers!!! For more information, please call 516-8872228
Now thru SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th
TIMES VARY
2026 JONES BEACH BANDSHELL
SUMMER CONCERT
The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation is thrilled to announce the 2026 Bandshell Summer Concert Series at Jones Beach State Park at Field 4 Boardwalk. Every night through September 6th. For the most up to date information, please contact Jones Beach State Park at 516785-1600.
THURSDAY, JULY 30th
6:30PM-7:30PM AMERICA 250: LONG ISLAND AND THE CIVIL WAR
At The Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Ave. in Merrick. Join historian Bill Bleyer for a presentation exploring Long Island’s role in the Civil War, including Lincoln’s visit, local soldiers, home front efforts, and postwar memorials. Free Event. For more information, please call 516-377-6112
7:00PM-8:30PM NEW BEGINNINGS SUPPORT GROUP
At Connetquot Public Library, 760 Ocean Avenue in Bohemia. Have you recently had a major life change, such as widowhood, divorce, or a move? If you’re looking for a new beginning,
4th - Independence Day
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
join this discussion, social, and support group facilitated by life coach and social worker Marla Matthews, you will meet new people, network, and learn new skills toward reinventing yourself. No registration required. For additional information, please call the library at 631-567-5079
FRIDAY, JULY 31st
5:00PM-8:00PM SUMMER COMMUNITY DINNER
At Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Avenue, in Huntington. Join us for an evening of art, food, and community at the Heckscher Museum of Art this summer! Inspired by the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the Museum’s 100th Anniversary of Eclipse of the Sun by George Grosz. From 6-8 pm, everyone is invited to gather for a community dinner outside the Museum. Seating and meals will be available while supplies last, and the evening will be offered as a pay-what-you-wish experience.
6:00PM-6:45PM
MAGIC OF AMORE
At Emma Clark Library, 120 Main Street in Setauket. Prepare to be amazed by this award-winning magic show, packed with illusions, music, and comedy! Presented by Magic of Amore. Hosted by Emma Clark Library. For families with children ages 3 – 11 years old. No registration required. Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org, or call 631-9414080
UPCOMING AUGUST EVENTS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1st 9:00AM-1:00PM
RIVERHEAD CARDBOARD BOAT RACE
At Peconic Riverfront, Peconic Avenue in Riverhead. Free Event. The Riverhead Cardboard Boat Race is one of Downtown Riverhead’s most anticipated annual events, bringing together thousands of spectators to cheer on teams racing homemade cardboard boats across the Peconic River. This exciting waterfront festival combines creativity, competition, engineering, and family fun into a one-of-a-kind community experience that draws visitors from across Long Island. For more information, please call 631-727-7600
MONDAY, AUGUST 3rd 6:00PM
WEST ISLIP SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
The West Islip Symphony Orchestra will be holding their Summer Concert Series starting in August, inviting the community to listen to some classical music. The first performance will be in Wohseepee Park in Brightwaters. The concert will be a part of the Mayor Joseph McNulty Ice Cream Social. For more information about the Summer Concert Series, visit the West Islip Symphony Orchestra’s website at westislipsymphony.org.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th 11:00AM-5:00PM CLAMFEST
A Clamfest will be held at the Sayville United Methodist Church. The church is located at the corner of Main Street and Greene Avenue. The menu includes clam chowder, baked clams, hot dogs, hamburgers and more! Come on down and enjoy yourself! For more information, please call 631-589-0624
GROUP RATES FOR 15+ TICKETS AS LOW AS $43.99
WITH A SEASON PASS!
The race is on to the Tri-State’s Largest Water Park. Enjoy 30+ slides and attractions of all sizes, including the new Stingray Bay water playground.
Affordable Summer Entertainment Options
Summer is full of opportunities to rest and unwind. It’s also a prime time for vacations, road trips and enjoying activities close to home. According to InsureMyTrip, millennials travel the most during summer, with July consistently ranking as the busiest month.
Transportation Security Administration records also show that several July dates are among the busiest travel days.
Summer breaks and vacation time make it the perfect season to have fun, but not everyone has the budget for lavish trips or costly excursions. Fortunately, plenty of memorable experiences are affordable. Here are a few low-cost ideas.
Local sports game
Major League Baseball games can be expensive, but minor league teams offer the excitement of
live sports at a fraction of the cost. Smaller crowds and nearby stadiums make them an affordable family outing.
Fairs and carnivals
A day at a major amusement park can cost a family of four anywhere from $370 to more than $1,100 before food and drinks, according to BestLifeOnline.com.
Church carnivals and county fairs are often much more affordable and still feature rides, games and entertainment.
Day at the beach
A beach day is a classic summer outing. Visit different beaches throughout the season and save money by purchasing beach tags before summer begins. Many beaches also offer free or low-cost admission.
Summer offers plenty of affordable activities and adventures close to home.
More Ways Enjoy Entertainment Close To Home
While travel can be exciting, there are plenty of ways to enjoy recreation and entertainment without leaving town. Many local options are affordable, convenient, and perfect for spending quality time with family and friends.
Live music: Local restaurants, pubs, schools, festivals, and community venues often feature talented musicians and performers.
Theater productions: Community theaters and colleges regularly stage plays and musicals, offering quality entertainment at affordable prices.
Dining out: Exploring local restaurants is a great way to enjoy different cuisines while supporting area businesses.
Farmers markets: These markets provide an opportunity to shop for fresh, local products while enjoying a relaxing outing.
Parks and recreation: Beaches, parks, trails, lakes, and marinas offer countless ways to enjoy the outdoors and stay active.
Comedy shows: Local venues frequently host comedians, making for a fun and affordable night out.
From live performances to outdoor activities, there are many ways to enjoy entertainment close to home without the expense and planning that often come with travel.
Kids Coloring Contest!
Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Four winners will be chosen - one in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10 & 11-12.
Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to the Long Island Aquarium All entries must be submitted by August 23. Winners will be notified on August 24. 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:
Would you like to subscribe to our newsletter? Yes: _______ No:
Young Explorers Reach For The Stars At Summer Investigations
During the second week of the West Islip Union Free School District's Summer Investigations program at Paul J. Bellew Elementary School, students embarked on an exciting journey through space with a weeklong theme centered on space and innovation.
Across all academic areas, students explored astronomy, engineering and space exploration through hands-on lessons designed to spark curiosity and creativity. In the library media center, students learned about constellations and created replicas of
Orion's Belt using chalk, stars and stencils. They also designed their own Big Dipper constellation projectors, allowing them to continue exploring the night sky at home.
English language arts lessons focused on researching the planets and taking a virtual trip to NASA's International Space Station, helping students build their research and informational reading skills while learning about life in space. In the STEM lab, students discovered what it takes to be an astronaut as they listened
to the book “Edward Built a Rocketship” by Michael Rack. Inspired by the book, they engineered and launched their own paper rockets using pipettes, testing how far their creations could soar while exploring basic engineering and physics concepts. The week concluded with an outdoor space-themed obstacle course, giving students an energetic and engaging way to celebrate everything they had learned.
Photos courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District
Summer Investigations Starts With Patriotic Week Of Learning
The West Islip Union Free School District kicked off its four-week Summer Investigations program on July 6 at Paul J. Bellew Elementary School, welcoming elementary students for a summer filled with engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
The first week’s theme, "America the Beautiful," immersed students in activities celebrating the nation's history, symbols and landmarks while reinforcing key academic skills. In the library/media center, students researched iconic American landmarks and symbols and read
“If I Were President,” inspiring conversations about leadership and civic responsibility.
In the STEM lab, students explored the meaning behind the stars, stripes and colors of the American flag after listening to “The Flag We Love.” They created patriotic pinwheels and Shrinky Dinks before using LEGO bricks to build replicas of American landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell and the U.S. Capitol.
Students also welcomed a special visit from Ms. Carol of the West Islip Public Library, who shared a story
and introduced the library's summer reading program, encouraging students to continue reading throughout the summer months.
In addition to the themed activities, students strengthened their math and literacy skills, helping them stay engaged and prepared for a successful return to school in the fall.
The Summer Investigations program continues throughout July, providing students with enriching educational experiences that combine creativity, exploration and academic growth.
The second week of the West Islip Union Free School District's Summer Investigations program focused on space and innovation. Photos courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District
The West Islip Union Free School District kicked off its four-week Summer Investigations program on July 6 at Paul J. Bellew Elementary School. Photos courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District
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West Islip BOE Holds Annual Reorganization Meeting
To kick off the 20262027 school year, West Islip Union Free School District held its annual board of education reorganization meeting in the auditorium of Beach Street Middle School on July 7. Newly reelected trustee
Anthony Tussie was sworn into oath to begin his term by the school district’s attorney. Mr. Tussie was also elected and sworn
in as president of the board of education. Grace Kelly-Peleg was elected and sworn in as the vice president for the 2026-
2027 school year. Newly reelected trustee Quinn Bedell will be sworn in during the August meeting.
Protecting People With Dementia During Extreme Heat
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is sharing important safety guidance to help families caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementiarelated illnesses minimize the risks associated with extreme heat.
“Extreme heat is especially dangerous for someone with dementia because the illness can affect a person’s ability to recognize thirst, communicate discomfort, or realize they may be overheating,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, SIFI, AFA’s Senior Director of Educational and Social Services. “Taking a few simple precautions can help caregivers protect their loved ones and prevent heat-related illnesses during periods of dangerous temperatures.”
AFA advises caregivers to take the following steps: Watch for wandering warning signs– Wandering is a common behavior
among individuals with dementia and becomes especially dangerous during extreme heat, where heatrelated illnesses can develop in just a few minutes. A person with dementia who becomes lost or disoriented may not recognize they are overheating or know how to seek help. Someone with dementia may want to go outdoors for many reasons: seeking purpose, responding to overstimulation, escaping noise or activity, or attempting to meet an unmet need such as hunger, thirst, or boredom. Watch for signs such as pacing, restlessness, or anxiety. Reduce the chances of wandering by ensuring the person’s basic needs are being met, as well as by creating safe, stimulating alternatives to going outdoors. These can include walking paths around the home with visual cues, engaging the person in simple tasks, or offering activities like music, crafts, or games.
Keep a recent photo and medical information on hand, as well as information about familiar destinations that are currently or formerly frequented, which can be shared with emergency responders if the person wanders. This will expedite search and rescue efforts.
Monitor fluid intake – Dementia can affect a person’s ability to recognize when they are thirsty, increasing the risk of dehydration. Caregivers should offer fluids frequently
and monitor intake. Avoid alcohol and limit caffeinated beverages, which can cause dehydration. Recognize symptoms of heat-related illness – People living with dementia may have difficulty recognizing or communicating symptoms and distress caused by extreme temperatures. Warning signs can include excessive sweating, exhaustion, hot or red skin, muscle cramps, rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, or sudden changes in mental status.
If signs of heat-related illness manifest, move the person to an air-conditioned or cooler location, remove excess clothing, apply cool compresses, and encourage fluid intake if they can drink safely. Call 911 immediately if the person faints, becomes unconscious, or experiences severe confusion.
Know your local cooling center – Many communities open air-conditioned cooling centers during heat waves. These may include senior centers, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings. Identify nearby cooling centers, even if you have air conditioning in your home, as these can be backup plans in case of a power outage.
Have a plan – Make sure the person has sufficient water and access to air conditioning or other cooling mechanisms. Heat waves can place additional strain on electrical systems, increasing the possibility of power interruptions.
Make sure phones, tablets, and other devices are fully charged, and keep flashlights accessible. Have emergency contact information for utility providers, police, and fire departments readily available.
Caregivers who do not live near their loved one should arrange for someone nearby to check in during extreme heat or schedule an inhome aide during the heat wave. Make sure that person has access to important information, including medical records, insurance information, and emergency contacts.
AFA’s Helpline, staffed entirely by licensed social workers who are specifically trained in dementia care, can provide additional information and support for families. The Helpline is available seven days a week by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-5865283), and web chat (www. alzfdn.org).
Photos courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District
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REGISTRATION DATES & TIMES
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY AUGUST 11TH, 12TH & 13TH 6-8:30PM
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15TH 11-2PM
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY AUGUST 18TH, 19TH & 20TH 6-8:30PM
SATURDAY AUGUST 22ND 11-2PM
CLASSES START THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH Call For More Information Or To Register! FAMILY & MULTIPLE CLASS DISCOUNTS!
