May 27, 2026 West Islip

• Broccoli and Mozzarella • Traditional (Ham, Salami, Pepperoni, Mozzarella)

Tips To Throw A Memorable Graduation Party

Each year, newly minted graduates proudly don their caps and gowns and walk across countless stages to receive their diplomas or degrees. Graduation is a proud moment for students, and that pride is shared by family members and close friends who have supported them throughout their academic careers.

Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating. Planning a graduation party takes some effort to ensure the event is worthy of this significant moment in a student’s life.

Begin with a theme

Hosts can select a theme that aligns with the graduate’s interests. Consider themes tied to what a new high school graduate plans to study in college, or make the theme reflect the career path a recent college graduate hopes to pursue. Additional ideas include the graduate’s favorite movies, musical interests, cherished hobbies, or love of travel.

Set a budget

Establish a clear budget to manage expenses and prioritize key aspects of the celebration. Hosting a party away from home may seem more expensive, but when hosts factor in tent, table, chair, catering, and décor rentals, booking a venue may actually be more affordable. Comparing all potential costs can help party hosts determine the best option and create a realistic budget.

Make the venue interesting If possible, tailor the venue to the theme. For example,

if the graduate loves the ocean and beach, a beach bonfire party can make for a memorable celebration. Graduates who enjoy concerts might appreciate a party that recreates the feeling of a live performance. Hire a musician, set up stadium-style seating, and create a stage where the performer can entertain guests. Afterwards, hire a DJ or stream a playlist created by the guest of honor.

Create a grand entrance

Find a fun way for the graduate to make a memorable entrance. Perhaps the lights can be dimmed before a spotlight shines on the graduate. For a sports-themed celebration, the graduate can run through a breakaway banner similar to a football team taking the field before

West Islip Resident Inducted Into WIHS Athletic Hall of

kickoff. A creative entrance can add excitement and help make the event unforgettable.

Include fun activities

Dancing, photo booth sessions, scavenger hunts, or demonstrations tied to the party theme can keep guests entertained throughout the celebration. Games and interactive activities also can help guests mingle and create lasting memories.

Keep the food simple

Keep the graduate’s favorite foods in mind and offer dishes that are familiar and crowd-pleasing. There is no need to serve elaborate or exotic cuisine; guests are more likely to remember flavorful foods and generous hospitality. A signature cocktail or mocktail also can add a personalized touch to the party.

Capture the memories

Create opportunities for guests to share messages and memories with the graduate. A guest book, memory jar, or instant-photo station can provide keepsakes the graduate will treasure long after the celebration ends.

If the idea of planning a graduation party alone seems daunting, particularly during a busy season when dates and venues book quickly, a professional party planner can be an invaluable resource. With some preparation and creativity, family and friends can celebrate graduates in a way that is both fitting and memorable.

West Islip Honored As Best Community For Music Education

West Islip Union Free School District is one of 1,008 school districts across 43 states to be named as a 2026 Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation.

The award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education

part of a well-rounded education. Designations are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment to and access to music education.

“West Islip has been recognized for the ninth consecutive year,” said Eric Albinder, West Islip’s director of art and music education. “During the past 25 years, the national

BCME award has honored more than 1,000 schools and districts in 43 states, for their unwavering commitment to music education as an integral part of a wellrounded education for all students. Let's celebrate the district’s dedication to music education for all students.”

Photo courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District

You Can Join In Eat Pizza & Treats

Score A Good Grade On A Graduation Dinner

Students spend a good portion of their lives studying. By the time graduation arrives, thousands of hours spent on homework and writing term papers have passed. According to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, the number of U.S. high school graduates was expected to reach nearly 3.9 million students in 2025. The Education Data Initiative says 2.168 million bachelor’s degrees were conferred in spring 2025 in the United States. Individuals on the precipice of the next chapter in their lives are certainly worthy of celebration. A graduation dinner might just be an A-plus idea.

A graduation dinner is all about balancing the magnitude of the occasion with a relaxed environment for the graduate. Here is a syllabus for a seamless graduation meal.

• Secure the date. Graduation season is one of the busiest times of year for restaurants. Between May and June, millions of graduates will don caps and gowns and then be eager to celebrate. For those who are not hosting at home, it is essential to move quickly to secure a reservation. Book a reservation as soon as you know the graduation date.

• Consider another day. Graduation ceremonies tend to run late. Rather than feeling beholden to the actual graduation date and worrying about making it to the venue on time, consider hosting the graduation dinner the evening before or after to sidestep the post-commencement rush.

• Ask about packages. Speak with the

catering manager at the venue to find out if there is a specific party or graduation package. Many places offer limited prix fixe menus for large groups so the kitchen can operate efficiently. Be sure the graduate’s favorite foods are included on the menu; otherwise, broaden the venue search.

• Consider an at-home affair. Although it may involve extra work, hosting at home enables you to customize the menu to reflect the guest of honor’s favorite foods. Personalizing the meal with dishes inspired by school colors, a signature cocktail or mocktail, and themed desserts can make the event even more memorable. Not all of the food has to be homemade. Hiring a caterer and setting up buffet-style chafing dishes can make hosting less labor-intensive.

• Truly take the cake. Don’t forget to feature a centerpiece dessert. Beyond the classic “Congrats, Grad!” sentiments, consider a cake topper customized to the graduate’s area of study. A stethoscope for someone entering health care or a stock market ticker for a finance major can make the cake especially unique.

• Keep the program short and sweet. Graduates have already endured plenty of lectures and speeches, so any remarks should be brief. Highlight a specific honor or achievement, and skip lengthy slideshows or photo montages. A simple framed “then and now” photo featuring the graduate on the first day of kindergarten or preschool can serve as a meaningful conversation starter.

•

MAY HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, MAY 28th, thru SUNDAY, JUNE 7th

MIDWAY HOURS: 5-10 pm

Monday - Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11 pm Saturday, noon-10 pm Sunday. Aqua Live Spectacular showtimes are 7 pm and 9 pm daily, with an additional 3 pm performance on Saturday and Sunday.

SOUTH SHORE MALL CARNIVAL

South Shore Mall, 1701 Sunrise Hwy. in Bay Shore. Thrills galore are in store at this family-friendly annual event, from exciting midway rides and games for all ages to the Aqua Live Spectacular water stunt show starring enchanting aerialist mermaids, "The Hurricane" waverunner jet ski and more -- plus plenty of palate-pleasing carnival eats. Please visit the website, for more information https:// dreamlandamusements.com/

FRIDAY, MAY 29th, thru SATURDAY, MAY 30th

Friday, 10:00AM-4:30PM Saturday, 10:00AM-3:00PM SPRING BOOK SALE

Friends of the Babylon Public Library Spring Book Sale, 24 South Carll Avenue in Babylon. Come shop for books, DVDs, CDs, and more! Thursday evening hours are reserved for Friends members only, but you can become a member at the door! Proceeds from the book sale help pay for the library’s Museum Pass Program. For more information, please call 631-6691624

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

FRIDAY, MAY 29th, thru SUNDAY, MAY 31st

Friday & Saturday 4:00PM -10:00PM

Sunday, 2:00PM to 8PM

SEAFORD SPRING JAM at the Seaford Train Station. The Seaford Spring Jam returns to Seaford Station along Sunrise Highway for Three Nights. It's a Carnival, a Music Festival and a Food Truck Rally... all jammed into one! For more information, please call 516-644-5615

SATURDAY, MAY 30th

8:00AM-1:00PM

MULTI-FAMILY INDOOR YARD SALE

Food, Thrift Shop, Antiques and so much more! Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690

10:00AM-4:00PM

WESTBURY STREET FAIR

149 Post Avenue in Westbury. Family shopoping fun! A great way to spend the day. Vendors, local artists, Art Exhibit, food trucks, live music. Free admission and parking. For more information, please visit https://nassaucountyfairs.com/

SUNDAY, MAY 31st

1O:00AM-4:00M STREET FAIR

Rain Date: Sunday, June 7th. Deer Park Avenue North in Babylon, Hale Rd to Stone Ave. Live Music, Performances, Food Court, Inflatables, Vendors, Raffles Arts and Crafts.

11:00AM-6:00PM

ANNUAL ISLIP STREET FAIR ON MAIN STREET

517 Main Street in Islip. Hosted by the Islip Chamber of Commerce, it is a Quarter-Mile Long fair route stretching from South Bay Ave to Smith Ave. The Street Fair fosters a genuine sense of community pride that is heightened by all the fun features the Chamber has added, which include: a Giant Craft & Vendor Bazaar, Magnificent Kids Funzone, The Tasty Tailgate Food Truck Rally, The New York Islanders Slapshot Booth, Face Painting, Raffles And So Much More! Admission to the fair is free. The event is rain or shine (no rain date) For more information, please call 516-644-5615

Doors open: 1:00 PM Games start: 2:00 PM SUPERMARKET BINGO & CHINESE AUCTION

Our Lady of Lourdes School Auditorium, 855 Carmans Rd. in Massapequa Park. Admission: $25 per adult (18+ only), cash or check (payable to OLI Columbiettes) Limited seating— buy tickets early. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus & Columbiettes (Our Lady of the Island Council) For more information, please call Joan Donovan: 516-659-6519 | jdonovan17@aol.com, Diane Esposito: 516445-9128, diane. esposito.mpk@gmail.com

Five West Islip Students Commit To Collegiate Athletics

West Islip High School is proud to announce that five additional senior studentathletes from the Class of 2026 have committed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

Congratulations to Caitlin McNamee, ice hockey, Merrimack College; Peyton Bianca, lacrosse, Bridgeport University, Jovan Brewster, basketball, St. Joseph’s University; William DeWitt, swimming, Hamilton College; and Michael Hazelton, lacrosse, Wesleyan University.

These newest commitments, combined with the 17 student-athletes who announced their college decisions earlier this fall, highlight the remarkable accomplishments of the Class of 2026 and the strength of the school’s athletic programs.

The student-athletes have demonstrated dedication, perseverance and leadership both on the field and in the classroom throughout their high school careers. Their commitment to continuing athletics at the next level reflects years of hard work and support from coaches, teachers, families and teammates.

Free School District

The West Islip community congratulates all of the student-athletes on this exciting milestone and wishes them continued success as they begin the next chapter of their academic and athletic journeys in higher education.

Safety Recalls

Millions of drivers across the country are putting themselves and their loved ones at risk by driving vehicles with unrepaired safety recalls. A staggering 57.7 million vehicles in the U.S.—roughly 1 in 5— have outstanding safety recalls, according to data from CARFAX. (NAPSI)

8 Games To Try At Your Next Backyard Bash

Games can enhance any outdoor function. Whether at the beach or in one’s backyard, activities can keep guests entertained between the food and other refreshments. The good news is that most games designed for these types of functions are appropriate for players across a wide range of ages.

The following are eight games that can add excitement to any outdoor gathering.

1. Ladder toss: Also known as ladder golf, this game requires players to toss string-attached balls onto a ladder-shaped target. Points are awarded depending on which rung the ball lands on.

2. Kubb: Pronounced “KOOB,” this Swedish lawn game is believed to have originated during the era of the Vikings and is best described as a blend of bowling and horseshoes. Two teams compete to knock over their opponents’ wooden blocks by throwing batons.

3. Cornhole: Many people have played cornhole, which involves tossing bean bags at a cornhole board. The objective is to get the bag into the hole or onto the board to score points. The game can be played as singles or doubles, and the first team to reach 21 points wins.

4. Spikeball™: Also called Roundnet, this two-on-two sport is played by hitting a ball off a net with the goal of preventing the opposing team from returning it within three touches.

5. Ring toss: This game tests hand-eye coordination. Players take turns tossing rings onto target pegs. Each peg is worth a different number of points, and the first player to reach the agreed-upon score wins.

6. Connect Four in a Row: Giant versions of familiar tabletop games also are available for yard use. In this game, players try to get four chips in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.

7. Kan Jam®: Similar to cornhole or horseshoes, Kan Jam® features two teams of two players who alternate throwing a frisbee and trying to deflect it. The goal is to get the frisbee into the can.

8. Rollers: Goals are placed 25 feet apart, and players roll wooden discs in an attempt to get closest to the goal. Each side of the disc has a different number that determines the point value.

Backyard events can be enhanced with a little gameplay, and there are plenty of fun options for your next gathering.

Connecting Classrooms To Community

Manetuck Elementary School in the West Islip Union Free School District recently hosted a Community Connections event, welcoming a variety of local organizations and professionals to engage with students and share insight into their important roles within the community. Participants included representatives from the fire department, police department, emergency service workers, a

respiratory therapist, a local baker, a public librarian and a dancer.

Throughout the event, students rotated through interactive booths, where they learned about a wide range of careers and the vital services these professionals provide. Many stations offered hands-on experiences, giving students the opportunity to try on police, fire and EMS gear and gain a deeper understanding of the responsibilities

associated with each role. The event provided a meaningful opportunity for students to explore potential career paths while recognizing the importance of community helpers. By connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences, Community Connections fostered curiosity, appreciation and a greater understanding of how individuals work together to support and strengthen the community.

How To Make Grilling Healthier

Grilling

but it’s

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.

Town of Babylon Celebrates the Legacy of Salvatore Messina with Memorial Street Renaming

e Town of Babylon proudly honored the life and legacy of Salvatore C. Messina with the ceremonial renaming of North Oak Street at Bethpage Road in Copiague as Salvatore C. Messina “Sal’s Fruit Tree” Memorial Way.

Supervisor Rich Scha er and Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez joined members of the Messina family, friends, and community residents to celebrate a man whose hard work, generosity, and dedication to Copiague made a lasting impact on generations of local families.

For more than 50 years, Sal’s Fruit Tree served as far more than a neighborhood produce market. e longtime Copiague business became a cherished community landmark and a symbol of family values, perseverance, and hometown pride. Known for his kindness and commitment to residents, Salvatore Messina built relationships throughout the community that extended well beyond his business.

e Town recognized the memorial street naming as a tribute to Messina’s enduring legacy and the positive in uence he had on the lives of countless residents over the decades.

Town o cials thanked the Messina family for sharing Sal’s story and for allowing the community to honor his memory in a meaningful and lasting way.

Hope For The Warriors’ 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge

Registration is open for the Hope For The Warriors 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge, a free virtual wellness event focused on physical and emotional well-being while honoring U.S. service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Hosted by Craig Conover, a Bravo television personality and Hope For The Warriors board council member, the challenge runs May 1–30. Participants commit to at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day for 30 consecutive days. Activities may include walking, running, hiking, swimming, strength training, or dancing.

Individuals and teams can register at hopeforthewarriors.org.

Participants may log daily activity through the website to track cumulative progress and earn up to 30 mission points each day. Prizes will be awarded to the top three participants at the conclusion of the challenge.

Participants will receive twice-weekly emails offering motivation, wellness tips, and ideas to support sustained physical and mental health. In addition, signing up for the 30x30 challenge provides access to the Hope For The Warriors’ sports and recreation resource library, which contains exercise demonstrations, healthy

eating tips, and mindfulness activities.

“The 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge continues to be a powerful way for people to come together in a meaningful way,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors. “Its virtual format allows participants everywhere to honor our military community through a shared commitment to wellness and remembrance.”

For more information or to sign up for the Memorial Day 30x30 Wellness Fitness Challenge, visit hopeforthewarriors. org. To watch Craig Conover’s invitation to join his Hope For The Warriors 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge team, visit instagram.com/p/ DWo3VVPDMNf/?hl=en

About Hope For The

Warriors: Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military community (including veterans and active-duty service members as well as military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen). At HOPE, our mission is to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment, and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors. org.

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.”

Popular Prom Songs Through The Years

Popular songs provide the soundtrack to young adults’ lives. Such songs offer comfort when hearts are broken, provide common ground with peers, and can even lift a person up during a study session or before a big game.

Music also plays a large role on prom night. Prom playlists are often a mix of high-energy anthems and slower ballads. These songs can serve as poignant reminders of the ups and downs of high school. Memories sparked by music can last long after photos or other mementos are forgotten.

2010s: Electronic Dance Influence

Over the last 30 years, certain songs have become associated with the eras in which they first debuted. Naturally, these songs also were popular at proms during those years. Here is a look back at some of the most memorable prom songs from the 1990s through today.

1990s: Iconic Power Ballads and R&B Slow Jams

Proms during the 1990s were dominated by larger-than-life soundtracks and R&B groups, which balanced the grunge and hard-rock sounds of the era. This was the peak of the slow-dance era, with many songs also serving as movie soundtrack favorites.

• “I Swear,” All-4-One

• “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” Bryan Adams

• “Finally,” CeCe Peniston

• “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” Aerosmith

• “My Heart Will Go On,” Celine Dion

• “I’ll Be,” Edwin McCain

• “Tha Crossroads,” Bone Thugs-NHarmony

2000s: Party Anthems

The 2000s ushered in an energy shift toward hip-hop and club hits that kept dance floors packed. Proms became more upbeat and energetic with playlists like these.

• “Yeah!,” Usher featuring Lil Jon & Ludacris

• “Mr. Brightside,” The Killers

• “Hips Don’t Lie,” Shakira

• “Get Low,” Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz

• “If I Ain’t Got You,” Alicia Keys

• “Chasing Cars,” Snow Patrol

• “Hero,” Enrique Iglesias

The party continued into the next decade with the rise of electronic dance music and songs that sparked viral moments on early social media platforms. The following songs were likely heard at many proms throughout the 2010s.

• “Uptown Funk,” Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars

• “Party Rock Anthem,” LMFAO

• “All of Me,” John Legend

• “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran

• “Timber,” Pitbull featuring Kesha

• “Shut Up and Dance,” Walk the Moon

• “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift

• “Despacito,” Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee

2020s: Nostalgia and Viral Hits

The modern era’s prom songs reflect a mix of 2000s nostalgia and tracks that have gained popularity through social media.

• “Stay,” The Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber

• “Levitating,” Dua Lipa

• “About Damn Time,” Lizzo

• “As It Was,” Harry Styles

• “good 4 u,” Olivia Rodrigo

• “Espresso,” Sabrina Carpenter

• “Pink Pony Club,” Chappell Roan

Timeless Favorites

While current hits tend to dominate prom playlists, certain songs remain staples year after year.

• “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Journey

• “Cupid Shuffle,” Cupid

• “Cha Cha Slide,” DJ Casper

• “Dancing Queen,” ABBA

• “Starships,” Nicki Minaj

• “Sweet Caroline,” Neil Diamond

Prom music helps create the soundtrack to students’ lives and can help people remember the feeling of that special evening long after prom has come and gone.

Great Spaces To Host A Graduation Party

Graduation season has arrived, and with it comes plenty of celebrations honoring students who have spent years working toward a diploma or degree. Graduation parties commemorate students’ hard work, and there are many great places to host these special events and make the occasion even more memorable.

• Hotel with a private event space: Hotels are excellent venues for larger parties because they often provide everything needed — including catering, staff, overnight accommodations, and audio-visual equipment — in one package. Check local hotels to see if their banquet or meeting spaces might be a good fi t for a graduation celebration.

• Acti vity spaces: Many graduates prefer something less formal than a traditional party. Activitybased venues, such as boutique bowling alleys, arcades, or entertainment complexes, allow guests to mingle, move around, and play games while celebrating the graduate’s achievement.

• Outdoor parks or community spaces: Towns and municipalities often have outdoor venues that can be rented or reserved for little to no cost. Covered pavilions, picnic areas, and park shelters can provide budget-friendly spaces to celebrate outdoors during warm-weather graduation season.

• Community centers or halls: Venues such as fi rehouse party rooms, VFW halls, or community centers often offer affordable rental options and the convenience of hosting outside the home. Party planners can bring their own food, entertainment, and decorations, allowing greater fl exibility and

creative control over the event theme.

• Home or backyard celebrati ons: Graduation parties held at home offer a relaxed atmosphere and fl exible schedule for guests to stop by throughout the day. If space allows, homeowners can rent tents, tables, flooring, and lighting to transform a backyard into an elegant venue. Home parties can range from casual cookouts to elaborate catered affairs.

• Family-style restaurants: Restaurants that can comfortably accommodate large groups help ensure guests stay well fed and relaxed while honoring the graduate. Some establishments may require a prix fixe menu for larger parties to streamline kitchen operations and service. Even so, multi-course menus can provide good value and make hosting a stress-free experience.

• Rooftop or waterfront venues: Scenic venues with waterfront views or rooftop settings can add a memorable backdrop to a graduation celebration. These spaces often create a festive atmosphere and provide excellent opportunities for photographs with family and friends.

Graduation parties are a staple of late spring and early summer, and there are plenty of ideal locations where family and friends can gather to celebrate graduates and their accomplishments.

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By JoAnn Cilla

In May, Less Is More

Quality always beats quantity, and May is the perfect month to prove it. There’s something about the month of May that makes me feel energized and hopeful. I love the warmer weather too; change is in the air. Then, I wake up, open my closet doors and see clothes I haven’t worn in two years. I have a garage packed with stuff I forgot I owned, and a spare room that’s quietly become a storage unit with a window. May also has a way of making the unnecessary feel heavy.

That’s exactly why the garage sale was invented. There’s a tradition in our country of dragging what no longer serves us out to the driveway, pricing it with little stickers, and watching neighbors carry it away with a smile. It’s practical, it’s communal, and it feels genuinely good. One person’s dust collector is another person’s treasure. Your clutter has real dollar value sitting dormant inside it.

In addition to decluttering your home and life, there is money to be made in a wellrun garage sale. But what do you do with the money?

Too often, garage sale earnings get folded back into small indulgences: a meal out, an impulse purchase, something forgotten within a week. This month, commit to selling what you don’t need and be intentional with what you earn. Even a modest sale can bring in a few hundred dollars, and a few hundred dollars applied with purpose can change things.

Put it toward debt. A small extra payment on a credit card or loan chips away at interest and builds momentum.

Financial freedom doesn’t arrive all at once; it shows up one deliberate decision at a time.

Invest it. Open or add to a savings account, a retirement fund, or explore what’s available to you. Money that sits still loses value. Money that moves, grows.

Or put it back into your home or business. A fresh

coat of paint, a minor repair you’ve been putting off, or a piece of equipment that actually gets used; these small investments pay you back in comfort, function, and longterm value.

The things we own have a way of owning us back. While a garage sale clears space on your shelves, it also clears space in your life: financial space, mental space, and breathing room.

Less, it turns out, really is more. And May is a great time to start making room for less.

Enjoy A Healthy Summer

Colds may not be as common in summer as they are in winter, but anyone who has had one during warm, sunny weather knows how unpleasant a runny nose, sore throat, and low energy can be when everyone else is outside enjoying the season. There’s no substitute for feeling healthy in summer. A healthy summer means avoiding illness and making the most of a season when no one wants to battle colds or other health issues. The following strategies can help people stay well:

• Protect your skin from the sun. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends applying a broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outside and reapplying as needed, especially after swimming or sweating. The American Cancer Society notes that sunburn blisters can increase skin cancer risk, while sunburn can also weaken immune system response.

• Limit alcohol consumption.

Summer social events often mean more opportunities to drink, but alcohol and hot weather can be a risky mix. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that heat increases fluid loss through sweating, while alcohol adds to dehydration by increasing urination, raising the risk of heat stroke.

• Eat the right foods. A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables supports muscles, strengthens bones, and boosts immunity,

according to the CDC. Good nutrition can help people stay energized and better prepared for active summer schedules.

• Get adequate sleep. Adults should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night to support immune health and avoid missing out on summer fun. The Mayo Clinic notes that sleep deprivation can reduce production of cytokines, proteins that help fight infection and inflammation.

Prom Night Prep Tips For Parents Helping Teens

Prom is a teenage rite of passage. Prom night provides one more exciting adventure in a school experience that likely began with preschool jitters and will soon culminate in graduates receiving their high school diplomas.

Prom planning often reaches a fever pitch a few weeks before the big event. A significant amount of time and money can go into making prom a night to remember. While teens may be focused on fashion and fun, parents may be wondering what they can do to help steer their sons and daughters in the right direction. Here are some pointers for families preparing for prom.

• Set a budget: Inflation and supply chain issues have contributed to rising prices on many consumer goods, so prom attire and accessories may cost more than expected. Determine how much you can reasonably contribute and consider asking your teenager to help cover some expenses. When teens contribute financially, they may be more mindful about spending. Renting a gown or tuxedo instead of purchasing one outright also can help reduce costs.

• Be a parent first, friend second: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the months of April through June can be especially dangerous for teens, particularly when it comes to alcoholrelated traffic accidents. Some teens may see

prom night as an opportunity to experiment with alcohol or drugs. Parents should not condone underage drinking, whether hosting teens at home or organizing an after-party at a hotel or restaurant. Providing alcohol to anyone under 21 is both irresponsible and illegal in the United States.

• Set an example by staying calm: Prom planning can be stressful, especially when schedules, reservations, transportation, and attire all need to come together at once. Even though

teens may appear mature, emotions can run high when things do not go according to plan. Parents can help by reacting calmly to challenges and modeling problem-solving skills when unexpected obstacles arise.

• Stay involved: An involved parent can help teens make safer choices. Parents should know who their children will be spending time with, where they plan to go after prom, and how they will get home safely. Open conversations about boundaries, curfews, and expectations can help reduce risky behavior and encourage responsible decision-making.

• Discuss safety ahead of time: Talk with teens about the importance of traveling with trusted friends, staying aware of their surroundings, and contacting a parent or guardian if they ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Encourage teens to keep their phones charged and share transportation details before leaving for the evening. Having a plan in place can provide peace of mind for both parents and teens.

Prom night can be a memorable and enjoyable milestone in a teenager’s life. With thoughtful planning, open communication, and parental involvement, families can help make the experience safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Second Grader From West Islip Recognized For Bicycle Safety Poster

Legislator Steven J. Flotteron recognized Paul Chierico, a 2nd Grader at Paul J. Bellew Elementary School in West Islip for being the Bicycle Safety Poster Program winner from Legislative District

#11. His poster’s message depicted an understanding of the dangers faced by all bicycle riders here in Suffolk County while reinforcing the County’s public education campaign to increase awareness and

demonstrate bicycle safety at driveways, intersections and all roadways.

Pictured (L-R): Legislator

Steven J. Flotteron, Paul Chierico, poster winner, Principal Rhonda Pratt and Art Teacher Megan Brady.

2026 Annual Remembrance Scholarship Recipient

Legislator Steven J. Flotteron recognized the 2026 Annual Remembrance Scholarship Recipient Colin Most at the Easter Rising Centennial Memorial. Thomas James Clarke a Irishman who became an American Citizen and a Suffolk Resident was the person most responsible for the 1916 Easter Rising against the British Rule in Ireland. He was the first signatory of the Proclamation of Independence of Ireland. 110 years later after his execution we honor our neighbor for his heroism that sparks a Nation on their fight for independence.