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JUNE HAPPENINGS
ALL JUNE DURING GALLERY HOURS
11:00AM-4:00PM
RAINBOW SCAVENGER HUNT
At the Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. Find all the colors in the rainbow in the gallery for a prize! Included with Admission. For more information, please call Cristina Ainslie at 631-367-3418
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24th
3:30PM-8:00PM
NY BLOOD DRIVE
Christ Lutheran Church, 117 Carleton Ave. in Islip Terrace. For more information, please call 631-581-1710
6:00PM
SUMMER SOLSTICE WALKING TOUR
Bayport Blue Point Heritage Association's Frank Giebfried will be your guide for an evening stroll that marks the beginning of the summer season. This is a BBP Library program and you need to register with the library to join the walking tour. There are 2 dates available and space is limited. You can register by phone by calling the library at 631-363-6133 and dial 3 for the main desk. The tour will last about 2 hours.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24th thru SUNDAY, JUNE 28th
MIDWAY HOURS: 5-10 pm
Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11
pm Saturday, noon-10 pm Sunday. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult age 21+.
BELLMORE FIREMAN'S FAIR
At the Bellmore Train Station, Sunrise Highway & Bedford Avenue in Bellmore. Have a great time for a good cause at this family-friendly fundraiser
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
for the all-volunteer Bellmore Fire Department featuring thrilling midway rides and games for all ages and deepfried treats, sweets and other tasty carnival eats. For more information, please call 866-666-3247 or Bellmore Fireman's Fair
SATURDAY, JUNE 27th
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.
10:00AM–3:00PM
THRIFT SHOP AND YARD SALE
Come One, Come All to St. Patrick’s Church, 305 Carll’s Path in Deer Park. New and slightly used clothes, shoes, jewelry, household items, books, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, arts and crafts. Rent a table for $25.00. For more information, please call 631-242-7530
11:00AM
BLESSING OF THE FLEET
St. Joseph's Church in Babylon will be hosting its 6th annual Blessing of the Fleet at the Babylon Municipal Dock. Boaters are welcome to attend by water to receive a blessing from Father Mickey. Those without boats are welcome to attend on land to witness the blessings and to participate in prayer for a safe boating season. For more information, to register your
boat or to purchase a T-shirt, please contact Geri Olson at 516-456-1456 or geri124@optonline.net.
11:00AM-1:00PM
MERRICKA 250 BLOCK PARTY
At the Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Library in Merrick. Join us for the “Merricka 250 Block Party,” kicking off the Summer Reading Challenge with BBQ hot dogs, classic yard games, and fun activities for all ages! From friendly lawn games to festive community celebrations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. The Paumanok Stompers, a six-piece traditional New Orleans jazz band, will set the tone with high-energy, foot-stomping music to launch an unforgettable day of summer fun. For more information, please call 516-377-6112
12:00PM-9:30PM
UFOlogy: CLOSE ENCOUNTERS AT THE CRADLE
Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard in Garden City. UFOlogy is a one-day family event blending STEM education, aviation history, science fiction, and drone technology, culminating in the Museum’s inaugural 300-drone nighttime show. For more information, please call 516-572-4066
SUNDAY, JUNE 28th
12:00PM-5:00PM
EMPOWERED SUMMER FESTIVAL
Free Admission. Over 100 Vendors, Psychics, Healers, 8 Food trucks,Adopt a Pet, Music. 759 Long Island Avenue, Deer Park. For more information, please call 516-639-6903
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Trace Your Own History While Celebrating America’s
Millions of Americans will spend some time in 2026 commemorating 250 years of United States history. The U.S. turns 250 in July 2026, and the summer figures to be an especially celebratory time across the 50 states.
As Americans engage with their nation’s history, they might be compelled to learn more about their personal history as well. Genealogy has become a popular pastime in the twenty-first century, and the National Archives offers these tips to anyone looking to do some digging into their personal history as they celebrate 250 years of the United States.
• Start with yourself. The National Archives recommends starting with the person you know best: yourself. Your own personal details can serve as a starting point as you work toward more unknown facets of your family history. After you note all of your own details, learn and document all you can about your parents and then do the same in relation to your grandparents.
• Emphasize four vital components. The National Archive notes that names, dates, places, and relationships are the tools of the family researcher. That’s because these nuggets of information have long been used to identify people in public records.
• Peruse any existing family archives. Many families have kept their own archives over the years, even if that record-keeping was not widely known within a family. A relative might have kept various types of documents that help to paint a picture of your genealogy. Ask around in the family to see if anyone has kept records, which might include:
- Newspaper clippings
- Birth and death certificates
- Military certificates
- Marriage licenses
- Letters
- Diaries
Tricks For Planning Your Summer Getaway
Summer is a popular time of year, with warm temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere that can make even staying home feel like a vacation. Still, many people look forward to traveling and fully embracing that sense of rest and relaxation. Planning a summer getaway during peak travel season can be challenging, especially when balancing family schedules. These tips can help make vacation planning easier.
• Identify blackout dates. Start by marking any nonnegotiable commitments on the calendar, such as kids’ summer camps, sports practices, or other events. Blocking out those dates early helps reveal which days and weeks are available for travel.
• Start planning early. Getting a head start on vacation planning can save
money and reduce stress. Narrow down destination choices, compare travel and lodging costs, and book as soon as you find a good deal to avoid higher last-minute prices.
• Set price alerts. Many travel websites let you create alerts for deals that match your budget. Keep in mind that airline sites may track searches, so clearing cookies or using a different device can sometimes help you find better prices.
• Check for work conflicts. Before finalizing plans,
make sure coworkers or others in your department are not already scheduled to be out. Many employers limit overlapping vacation time, so it’s wise to discuss plans with supervisors early.
• Delegate tasks. Vacation planning involves many details, from transportation to meals and activities. Sharing responsibilities with family members or friends can make the process much less stressful for everyone.
- Photographs/photo books
- Scrapbooks
• Let others know. Inform family members near and far that you’re working on a genealogy project. A relative might have beaten you to it, and that person could have lots of valuable information and documents to share. Others might be able to point you toward a relative who has become the unofficial family historian. In addition, cousins and aunts and uncles might have records from their own immediate families, which can help you as you conduct your own research.
• Access government records. The U.S. federal census dates all the way back to 1790, which makes it a potentially excellent source of information for your project. State and county archives also can be wonderful resources that keep records of births, deaths, marriages, and other notable events that can help people trace their family histories. Even local libraries might have records of your family, especially if your family has been settled in the same area for a significant amount of time.
American history might be the focal point in the United States in 2026. But that renewed emphasis on history also makes 2026 a great time to study your own family’s part in helping the nation make it to its 250th birthday.
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Notable Events In Colonial America In 1776
The year 1776 was a defining moment in American history. As the Revolutionary War unfolded, a series of events helped shape the future of what would become the United States.
• January 10: Thomas Paine publishes Common Sense in Philadelphia. Initially released anonymously, the 47-page pamphlet argued for independence from Great Britain and inspired many colonists to support the Revolutionary cause. Paine’s clear, accessible writing helped spread revolutionary ideas beyond political leaders to ordinary citizens.
• February 27: The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge takes place near Wilmington, North Carolina. Loyalist forces stormed across a bridge and attacked men they believed to be rebels, but Patriot forces quickly prevailed. The defeat weakened British efforts to recruit loyalist support in the region.
• May 6–July 5: The Fifth Virginia Convention meets in Williamsburg. The Patriot legislature ultimately declares Virginia an independent state and adopts the Virginia Declaration of Rights, a landmark document that affirmed individual liberties and the people’s authority to reform or replace inadequate government.
• June 28: Thomas Hickey becomes the first person executed by the Continental Army after being convicted of mutiny, sedition, and treachery. A member of General George Washington’s guard, Hickey was implicated in an alleged conspiracy that may have included a plot to assassinate Washington.
• July 14: Increased violence on the Kentucky frontier leads to the capture of Jemima Boone and the Callaway sisters. Days later, Daniel Boone led a successful rescue mission. The dramatic episode later became part of American folklore and inspired scenes in early American literature.
• September 20–21: The Great Fire
of New York destroys as much as one-quarter of the city’s buildings in lower Manhattan. The fire broke out shortly after British forces occupied New York City. Although each side blamed the other for
starting the blaze, historians generally believe it likely began accidentally and spread rapidly due to strong winds and closely packed buildings.
Prepare Pets For Fourth Of July Festivities
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 antianxiety medication or a sedative to help pets cope with the stimuli.
Create a quiet space
Allow pets to ride out the day in their comfortable, quiet and cozy retreats. If necessary, create a space in an interior room. Cover the pet crate with a blanket and offer favorite toys or bedding to create a soothing environment.
Place notes on doors and gates
While it’s best to keep pets in a locked room away from the fray, some pets like to socialize with guests and are not bothered by noises. However, alert guests with notes posted on doors and fence gates to check to make sure pets are not trying to escape behind them. All doors should be closed firmly when entering or exiting.
Pick up debris
Firework debris can rain down on properties even if you were not shooting off the fireworks. Curious pets may pick it up or eat it, which runs the risk of an upset stomach or even an intestinal blockage. Check your yard before letting pets out to play.
Keep an eye on the grill
Pets can be opportunists, and those burgers and chicken drumsticks smell delicious to pets. Pets that get too close to the grill can become injured. And if pets eat leftovers, they may end up with digestive distress or even be poisoned by foods that are toxic to cats and dogs.
Seaford Public Library Events
2234 Jackson Avenue, Seaford, NY 11783
(516) 221-1334 ext. 3210
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 summerlong 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 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
• July 14th — Children’s Program: All American 88887+995Cupcakes from 2:00 PM–3:00 PM Children in grades K–5. Join us for a fun America
celebration! Chef Rob will show you how to decorate red, white and blue filled cupcakes. Registration begins online Tuesday, July 7th at www.seafordlibrary. org
• July 14th — Adult Craft Program: Patriotic Wood Sign at 6:30 PM Adults ages 18 and older can create decorative patriotic wood signs in celebration of America 250. Registration begins online Saturday, July 11th at www.seafordlibrary. org
• August 6th— Teen Program: Blindfold Candy Contest — Red, White or Blue? from 7:00 PM–8:00 PM Teens in grades 5–12. Guess the different flavors of colorful red, white and blue candies to win prizes! Registration begins online Monday, July 20th at www. seafordlibrary.org
Beginning Wednesday, July 1st, patriotic pinwheels will also be distributed to patrons checking out materials at the Circulation Desk while supplies last. Limit one per household for Seaford Library/School District residents only. “We are excited to celebrate this historic milestone with programs that encourage creativity, learning, and community engagement,” said the library. “America 250 is an opportunity to honor our nation’s past while bringing people together to celebrate its future.”
Getting To Know The Declaration Of Independence
The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in American history. On July 1, 1776, delegates from the 13 colonies met in Philadelphia to vote on independence from Britain. After debate, 12 of the 13 colonies approved the measure. In honor of those delegates, here are 12 facts about the Declaration of Independence.
The Declaration was officially adopted on July 4, 1776, though most delegates signed it on August 2. John Dickinson and Robert R. Livingston never signed the document.
John Dunlap was the official printer of Congress at the time. He worked all night and into the morning of July 5 to produce the large, single-sided sheet, known as a broadside. About 200 copies of Dunlap’s broadside were made.
The University of Virginia owns two rare early printings of the Declaration, including one believed to have belonged to George Washington.
Benjamin Franklin, George Read, Roger Sherman, Robert Morris, George Clymer, and James Wilson signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were hidden at Fort Knox during World War II, two weeks after Pearl Harbor was attacked.
Contrary to the movie “National Treasure,” the writing on the back of the Declaration is visible and simply identifies the document.
Signer Richard Stockton later renounced his support for the Revolution after being captured by the British.
In 1989, an original Dunlap Broadside purchased for $4 at a flea market was later sold for $8.1 million. Only 26 original copies are known to exist.
Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4, even though independence was approved on July 2.
The Declaration was not immediately embraced by everyone, and political divisions delayed widespread celebration of its anniversary.
Congress nearly forgot the first anniversary in 1777, organizing a July 4 celebration only at the last minute.
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John Trumbull’s famous painting “Declaration of Independence” in the U.S. Capitol depicts the drafting committee presenting the document, not the actual signing.
Impactful Events In U.S. History
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, Americans are reflecting on the people, events, and turning points that helped shape the nation. The following are among the most significant moments in U.S. history:
• The Louisiana Purchase (1803): One of the most important land deals in history, the Louisiana Purchase nearly doubled the size of the United States. President Thomas Jefferson initially sought to purchase New Orleans and West Florida from France, but Napoleon Bonaparte instead offered the entire Louisiana Territory for $15 million. The acquisition added more than 530 million acres to the young nation and opened vast areas of North America to exploration and settlement.
• The Monroe Doctrine (1823): During his annual address to Congress, President James Monroe warned European powers against further colonization or interference in the Western Hemisphere. The statement, later known as the Monroe Doctrine, declared that the Americas were no longer open to European expansion while also pledging that the United States would avoid involvement in European affairs. The doctrine became a key principle of American foreign policy for generations.
• The Sinking of the Lusitania (1915): The British passenger liner Lusitania was sunk by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland, killing nearly 1,200 people, including more than 120 Americans. Although the United States remained neutral at the time, the attack increased tensions between the U.S. and Germany and fueled anti-German sentiment. The incident helped shape public opinion in the years leading up to America’s entry into World War I in 1917.
• Wall Street crashes on Black Monday (1929): The stock market crash that began in October 1929 marked an end to the financial boom of the 1920s that the Federal Reserve notes had begun in August 1921 and lasted until September 1929. On what’s become known to historians as Black Monday (October 28, 1929), the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined by nearly 13 percent, a fall that preceded an almost 12 percent decline on the following day. By the summer of 1932, th Dow had fallen to its lowest value of the twentieth century and 89 percent below its peak. Black Monday marked the beginning of the Great Depression, and the Federal Reserve notes the Dow did not return to its pre-crash heights until 1954.
Interesting Facts Related To Independence Day
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
FourLeaf Air Show And Fireworks At Jones Beach To Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary
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
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.”
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
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.
Hospital Association Offers
$2,000
The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC) announces a $2,000 scholarship for college juniors/seniors or post graduate students who are studying Journalism, Marketing/ Communications, or Healthcare Administration. (The scholarship is not for clinical-based study.)
The Ann Marie Brown Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship
honors the late Ann Marie Brown, who served as vice president for government and public relations for the Hospital Council from 1983 to 1993. The scholarship is administered by the Hospital Council’s Communications Committee.
Filing deadline is June 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM. For more information and an application go to the NSHC scholarship page or call 631-
334-8321. About the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC) The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council represents the not-for-profit and public hospitals on Long Island. It works in conjunction with the Suburban Hospital Alliance of New York State to advance legislative and regulatory priorities. NSHC serves as the local and collective voice of hospitals on Long Island.
Continued From 13
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,
Interesting Facts Related To Independence Day
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 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
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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.
Tips For Picking And Cutting Watermelon
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
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.
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.
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
• 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:
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.
