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It's June and summer is near! With longer days, warmer nights, graduations, Father’s Day, vacations, and backyard gatherings, this month is all about making memories. Inside this issue, enjoy seasonal editorial, a fresh tasty recipe, and more to brighten your month. Interested in advertising? Seasons® Magazine is mailed to nearly 80,000 homes each montth and is published online as well. Contact us today to learn more.
Bob Scarito
Michael Scarito
Bob Scarito Licensed Broker Associate
Michael Scarito Licensed Broker Associate
Celebrate The Start Of Summer
Thesummer solstice offers the most hours of daylight all year. According to Space.com, the summer solstice occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt toward the sun. The summer solstice falls on June 20, 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. The 2026 summer solstice (first day of summer) in the Northern Hemisphere is Sunday, June 21, 2026. The longest day of the year and the beginning of astrological summer is a source of celebration for many people. Come the summer solstice, the warm weather stabilizes and there are more days of sunshine and mild temperatures. Summer also is a season for school breaks and family vacations, representing additional reasons to look forward to the summer solstice. People can commemorate the start of summer in many different ways, including these fun ideas.
• Plan a hike. With a greater number of daylight hours, the solstice is the perfect time to head outdoors and
enjoy the sights. There’s no need to rush, as the sun sets late in the evening, giving those who have to work or attend school earlier in the day an opportunity to enjoy a hike after signing off.
• Take a photo. Make it a tradition to take a “first day of summer” photo each year to catalog the years going by. Everyone can pose in
their favorite summer garb or get coordinating t-shirts.
• Change the decor. The first day of summer is a perfect time to change a home’s decor to reflect bright, summery details. Pull out bright throw pillows, switch to citrus or coconutscented candles to establish a beachy mood and fill a bowl with limes, lemons and oranges for an easy summer centerpiece.
• Make a summer treat. Spend the day trying a new summer recipe, such as homemade ice cream, s’mores, fresh lemonade, or a frozen cocktail (mocktail) like piña coladas. Enjoy in honor of the start of summer.
• Take a plunge: Make an inaugural summer trip to the seaside, a pool or a lake and do your best cannonball into the water. Summer is a peak time for swimming, water sports and boating, so it pays to dive right into these activities.
Tricks For Planning Your Summer Getaway
Summeris 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 non-negotiable 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.
Expand Your Grilling Horizons This July 4
The Fourth of July is a day to celebrate the birthday of the United States of America. Americans celebrate the Fourth of July in various ways, many of which involve spending time outdoors with family and friends. Grilling delicious foods often is part of the July 4 game plan. Burgers, hot dogs and chicken drumsticks will never fall out of favor for Fourth of July fare, but savvy grillmasters know to pepper the offerings with foods that will tempt palates in unique ways. This recipe for “Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Greek Couscous” from “Cooking Light Fresh Food Superfast” (Oxmoor House) by the Cooking Light Editors appeals to vegetarians, vegetable lovers and anyone who wants something a little lighter from the grill.
Greek Couscous
Makes 4 1-cup servings
2 cups hot cooked whole-wheat couscous
1⁄4 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
20 grape tomatoes, quartered
1 15-ounce can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate 10 minutes.
Grilled Eggplant With Feta And Greek Couscous
Serves 4
2 small eggplants (about 1 pound each), each cut into 4 lengthwise slices
2. Drizzle eggplant slices with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill 6 minutes on each side or until tender. Sprinkle eggplant with cheese; grill 2 minutes or until cheese melts.
3. While eggplant grills, prepare Greek Couscous.
4. Place 2 eggplant slices on each of 4 plates. Top each serving with 1 cup couscous. Garnish with oregano sprigs, if desired.
Connect With Dad This Father's Day Even If You're Far Away
Father’s Day celebrations are unique to each family. Some gather for a big celebration, while distance may keep others apart. Children who live far from their fathers can still make the holiday special, even if they can’t be with Dad in person this June.
If you’re miles away from a father, grandfather, or stepfather this Father’s Day, there are still meaningful ways to celebrate.
• Connect digitally. If you can’t share a meal in person, use video chat apps like Zoom or FaceTime to connect. Sharing a virtual meal while chatting and laughing can still make the day feel special.
• Give gifts that keep on giving. Subscription boxes remain popular, from grilling spices and gourmet coffee to snack boxes and cheese-of-themonth clubs. These gifts
offer a monthly reminder of your appreciation.
• Consider virtual experiences. Many shoppers are choosing unique gifts over traditional ones. A virtual whiskey tasting or an online master class you can enjoy together over video call can create lasting memories.
• Personalize gifts for Dad. A monogrammed golf bag, custom photo book, or travel gear tied to one of Dad’s hobbies shows extra thought and care.
• Plan a trip together. If Father’s Day can’t be spent together, schedule a future outing like a concert, ballgame, or weekend trip centered around one of Dad’s passions.
Distance may affect Father’s Day celebrations, but with some planning and modern gifting ideas, any dad can feel celebrated and loved.
The Ultimate Guide To Dads’ Day Dining
Father’s Day is a time to honor fathers and father figures. Dads often do so much to support and love their families without much fanfare, making Father’s Day the perfect chance to treat them to something special — often a delicious meal.
According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending was expected to reach a record $24 billion in 2025, up from $22.4 billion in 2024 and surpassing the previous record of $22.9 billion set in 2023. Special outings remain one of the most popular gift choices, showing that many families prefer creating memories together over traditional presents. As families plan to celebrate Dad this year, dining out remains a thoughtful and popular way to mark the occasion.
• Classic steakhouse: A reservation at a steakhouse is always a solid choice. These restaurants are sophisticated and intimate, with broad menu appeal. Since
steakhouses tend to be pricier, planning ahead is important.
• Casual barbecue: For a laid-back dad, a relaxed BBQ spot with a patio can be ideal. Pulled pork, slow-smoked ribs, or a brisket sandwich with a cold beer make for a memorable Father’s Day meal.
• Seafood lover: Dads who love seafood may appreciate a restaurant with a strong seafood menu, especially one located on the water. Options range from upscale dining to casual fish fry spots.
• Gastropub: Many pubs combine great food with rotating craft brews. An artisanal burger paired with a pretzel and an IPA or stout can make for the perfect celebration. Before making a reservation, think about what Dad would truly enjoy rather than trying to impress. Tailoring the meal to his personality and preferences can make Father’s Day even more meaningful.
Happenings At The Emma Clark Library
Food
Drive
Now – August 16
An annual summer tradition, we’re collecting nonperishable food items for various local food pantries and nonprofit organizations throughout the community. Food pantries often see bare shelves during the summer and need help with restocking items for those who are food insecure. Library teen & tween volunteers will be distributing the donated items. All are welcome to donate (residents or non-residents) during Library hours.
Little Free Library
Now – September
The Little Free Library at West Meadow Beach, hosted by Emma Clark Library, is 11 years strong! This “Take a Book, Leave a Book” structure is located under the pavilion at the beach and made from recycled materials. There’s no need for a library card; visitors are invited to take any books that interest them. These books are donated for the sole purpose of the Little Free Library (books are not owned by Emma Clark – don’t return your library books here!).
All guests of the beach – both residents and nonresidents – are welcome to share in this project and to donate and/ or take books.
The Library would like to thank the Town of Brookhaven and Nicole Pocciare, Environmental Educator, for their continuous support and consent to host the Little Free Library at the beach. Additionally, the Library appreciates the teen and tween volunteers who “adopt” the library each week to ensure that it is neat, undamaged, and well-stocked.
Exhibit for America 250 From Sea to Shining Sea: Community Art Exhibition
Mid-June – August
Visit the Library this summer to view this collaborative art display at our Library Café Gallery. This exhibit includes American landscape paintings from our patrons of all ages. All canvases together will reveal a beautiful patchwork display, celebrating America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
Programs for America 250 – Open to All (Note Ages)
Let’s delve into the history and celebration of Juneteenth with Professor Andrew “Sekou” Jackson, Executive Director Emeritus of the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but
registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs
Savvy Sightseer’s Destination Travelogue: Go West! National Parks & Canyons
Monday, June 29, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. (In-Person; Adults)
Join “Savvy Sightseer” Jeanne Schnupp as she presents a photographic tour of the dramatic and jaw-dropping vistas of Arizona, Utah and the Navajo Nation. She’ll share photos and stories of the majestic Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley and Zion National Park. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs
Star-Spangled Celebration for Children Wednesday, July 1, 10:30 a.m. –12noon (In-Person; Families with children ages 3 – 11 years)
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday by creating your own accessories to top off your red, white, and blue attire for this extra special 4th of July. While supplies last. No registration required.
What Entertained the Founding Fathers Wednesday, July 1, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (In-Person; Adults)
Learn about the dances, songs, plays, and concerts enjoyed by the Founding Fathers and Mothers. Long-time Playbill managing editor Robert Viagas will help to humanize the giants who created the United States 250 years ago. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs
Book Discussion: Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution Monday, July 13, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
EMMA S. CLARK MEMORIAL LIBRARY 120 Main Street, Setauket, 631.941.4080, www.emmaclark.org, Facebook & Instagram @EmmaClarkLibrary continued on page 14
Happenings At The Emma Clark Library
continued from page 15
(In-Person; Adults)
Join us for an intimate book discussion at the Library (if you want to meet the author, see the “At the Museum” event below on July 21). Discussion will be facilitated by Librarian Emma Yohannan. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs.
Accessing the book: A limited number of copies will be available to borrow at the Circulation
At the Museum: Meet the Author! at The Long Island Museum in Stony Brook Tuesday, July 21, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
(In-Person; Adults)
Librarian Emma Yohannan will moderate a lively conversation with special guest, Claire Bellerjeau, co-author of Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and Elizabeth (Liss). You are encouraged to read the book ahead of time and participate in the Q&A session. Afterwards, you’ll have time to visit the exhibition The Seat of Action: Long Island in the American Revolution and Beyond, where Long Island Museum educators will be stationed to answer your questions. Event will begin in the Gillespie Room in the Carriage Museum. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs. Questions? Contact Emma Yohannan at eyohannan@emmaclark.org or call 631941-4080.
More Programs for Adults
Questions? Email askus@emmaclark.org
Rest for Success: How Better Sleep Improves Senior Health
Wednesday, June 24, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. Please join us for an informative lecture about sleep and aging with guest expert Dr. Marta Maczaj from the St. Charles Hospital Sleep Center. Dr. Maczaj will discuss normal sleep, how sleep changes with aging, sleep disruptors, and tips to improve your sleep. Open to all
Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs
Concert On the Library Lawn
Friday, July 10, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Distinguished local singer Paige Patterson brings us her immersive show, “Pure Joy with Paige Patterson: Musical Therapy for the Soul.” Backed by her live band, she’ll sing an eclectic mix of standards, from Sinatra to Santana, the Harlem Renaissance to Classic Soul, Broadway to foreign languages. Reviving memories of a bygone era, this concert will restore your faith in the timeless power of music! Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. No registration required.
Painting Demonstration on the Library Lawn
Saturday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Local artist Doug Reina will paint en plein air on the Library Lawn. You are invited to watch him at work and ask your questions. Doug Reina is a twotime Pollock-Krasner grant recipient whose studio is in Setauket, New York. No registration necessary; drop-ins welcome. You are encouraged to bring a lawn chair.
Beatles Trivia
Saturday, July 18, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Come together right now for Fab Four trivia. From the Cavern Club to the Apple rooftop, we'll cover the long and winding road of rock's iconic foursome. Whether you play solo or with a little help from your friends, it'll be the best trivia night across the universe. Moderated by Librarian Christina Piazza. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Each participant must register individually. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs
Kids “Drop In” Activities
These programs have no registration. For questions, email kids@emmaclark. org
Meet the Farm Animals
Tuesday, July 7, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Explore the care, unique traits, and uses of various farm animals, brought to you by Cornell Cooperative Extension. Featured animals include goats, chickens, ducks, and a rabbit. For families with children ages 3 – 11 years old. In the event of inclement weather, please call 631.941.4080 x. 123. For families with children ages 3 – 11 years old.
The History of Balloons
Friday, July 17, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Bring the whole family down to see the award-winning Nick the Balloonatic and his hilarious, interactive balloon show. For families with children ages 3 – 11 years old.
Magic of Amore
Friday, July 31, 6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
Prepare to be amazed by this awardwinning magic show, packed with illusions, music, and comedy. For families with children ages 3 – 11 years old.
Holiday Hours
Emma Clark Library will be closed on Juneteenth (Friday, June 19) and Independence Day (Saturday, July 4)
Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops
Serves 7-8
1 large rack of pork chops, bones in
4 tablespoons butter
1⁄2 yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 1⁄2 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups panko bread crumbs
2 cups
2 cups roasted pecans, chopped
More kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Make A Father’s Day Meal Dad Can Savor
Families celebrate Dad in unique ways on Father’s Day. Gifts are customary, but so is a delicious meal Dad will love. Many dads will appreciate a meal that goes above and beyond the ordinary, preferably something that is hearty and delicious. These “Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) are a great dish to serve family style when everyone gathers around the table for Father’s Day.
Directions:
Clean the rack of pork well and cut in between the bones to get thick individual pork chops. Cut a large slit down the back side of each chop and insert the tip of a knife 2 to 3 inches inside the chop to create a pocket for the stuffing. Do not poke completely through the pork or the stuffing will not stay in.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery and garlic until the onion has slightly softened. Add the chicken stock, salt and cayenne and bring to a light simmer. Pour the contents into a mixing bowl and add the panko bread crumbs and pecans. Mix together and let cool to room temperature. Stuff as much of the mixture into each pork chop as will fit (overstuffing is okay, too). Sprinkle both sides of each chop with salt and pepper to taste, then roast in a preheated 400 F oven for 12 minutes. Turn the chops over once and roast an additional 15 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Cook to medium, or 135 to 140 F.
Decorative Crabapple
White • Red • Pink
Dogwood - White • Pink
Red Bud - Lavander Twist Forest Pansy
Pink Pom Pom • Vanilla Twist
Ornamental Flowering Cherry
Kwanzan • Yoshino • Weeping
Snow Fountain
Birches
Multi Stem • Weeping
Single Stem • Dura Heat River • Heritage
United States Navy Blue Angels To Headline The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show At Jones Beach
FourLeaf
Federal Credit Union and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, are very pleased to once again welcome the United States Navy Blue Angels as headliners for the 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach. The announcement was made at the annual International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Convention in Las Vegas.
The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will take place over the Fourth of July weekend as part of the nation’s Semiquincentennial (250th) celebration of the United States, as announced by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul. The FourLeaf Air Show will take place on Sunday, July 5th and Monday, July 6th, with a practice day on Friday, July 3rd. The annual Jones Beach Fireworks Spectacular will once again light up the sky on Saturday, July 4th.
“The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will be a spectacular tribute to America’s 250 years of freedom, courage, and innovation,” said Linda Armyn, President and CEO of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. “We’re proud to continue a tradition that unites families, honors those who serve, and reminds us all what it means to be part of this great nation. With the Blue Angels leading an all-star lineup of military and civilian performers, we’re excited to present a thrilling air show showcasing the very best of American excellence.”
Additional performers announced at ICAS include: the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Civilian teams also set to perform in 2026 include: the 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. The full 2026 lineup will continue to be updated and announced.
“The FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach is one of the most anticipated events of the summer, and this year’s celebration will be our biggest and most meaningful yet. It’s a chance for families to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, honor our heroes, and enjoy an unforgettable display of aviation excellence right here on Long Island,” said George Gorman, Regional Director, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
The United States Navy Blue Angels headlined the very first air show at Jones Beach in 2004 and will return to Long Island to headline next year’s special Semiquincentennial show. This will be the Blue Angels’ 11th headliner performance for what has grown into one of the most respected air shows in the country. The last time the Blue Angels performed, in 2024, over 459,000 people attended the show over the three-day period.
Prepare Pets For Fourth Of July Festivities
Manypeople 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.
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.
Decorating For America’s 250th Anniversary
Eachyear on July 4, many Americans are in a celebratory mood as they prepare for all the fanfare involved with Independence Day festivities. But Independence Day 2026 stands to be extra special since it marks America’s 250th birthday. Towns, cities and the entire country will be planning much more extravagant July 4 celebrations in 2026. People who want to get in on the America 250 action may want to begin thinking about how they are going to make their homes and businesses more festive.
• Bunting and banners: Bunting and banners are traditional patriotic decorations. They traditionally are red, white and blue and can be hung from porches, fences and railings.
• American flags: Many homes and businesses already display the flag, but this is the perfect opportunity to do so for those who want to exhibit their pride in America. Be sure to treat the flag with respect and review the official United States Flag Code, which mandates that the flag never touches the ground and is illuminated if flown at night.
When hanging against a wall or window, the blue union must be at the top left.
• Specialty signs: Many municipalities are getting in on the America 250 action and will organize specialty parades and parties. People can check with local government offices to see if lawn signs will be available. If so, they can be displayed in front of homes or retail stores.
• Tablescapes: Themed America 250 tablecloths can be used for backyard parties and picnics. Centerpieces of mason jars filled with mini flags and birthday number candles spelling out 250 are another fun idea.
• Cozy accents: Both homeowners and store owners can incorporate cozy accents like wooden blocks or patriotic table runners that display the 1776-2026 theme. Throw pillows and blankets
featuring stars and stripes tossed over an antique rocking chair on a porch or near an entryway is a great way to offer a touch of Americana.
• Lights: Twinkling holiday lights in red ,white and blue can be hung around windows and doors, or wrapped around trees in the yard for festive appeal.
Communities may identify specific decorating goals, like entire streets featuring paper lanterns, or America 250 flags on telephone poles. Residents can participate in such plans where possible. America’s 250th birthday certainly is worthy of celebration and lots of patriotic decor can commemorate this special event.
Did You Know?
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.”
