These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on the community.
Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
Spring is in full bloom - a season of renewal, hope, and fresh beginnings. May brings longer days, warmer weather, and special moments like Mother’s Day and Memorial Day gatherings. Inside this issue, enjoy seasonal editorial, including a fresh and timely recipe, and more to inspire your month. Interested in advertising? Seasons® Magazine is published in print and online each month. Contact us today to learn more.
Learn The Meanings Behind Popular Mother’s Day Flowers
Mother’sDay is a time to express love and appreciation for mothers, sentiments that are often expressed with gifts. Flowers are a popular present to bestow on Mother’s Day, as they can brighten a room and bring a sweet aroma to any household.
While any flowers may ultimately suffice on Mother’s Day, gift givers may want to select flowers for Mom that convey specific messages. The language of flowers has been recognized for centuries. Though perhaps not as heralded as it once
was, flower symbolism persists to this day. Here’s a look at some of the meanings behind certain types of flowers to help guide Mother’s Day gifting.
• Amaryllis: These plants start as bulbs and are naturally spring-blooming flowers. The name comes from the Greek word “amarysso,” which means “to sparkle,” and they symbolize pride.
• Aster: These daisy-like flowers are delicatelooking perennials. Asters make great gifts because they symbolize love and daintiness.
• Begonia: There are more than 2,000 types of begonias, and the flower symbolizes deep thoughts. Begonias were made famous by French horticulturist Michel Bégon, who thought the blooms looked like beautiful girls.
• Bleeding heart: These flowers are red and pink blossoms that look like the perfect heart shape with a teardrop at the bottom. They’re beautiful and symbolic of love and affection.
• Buttercup: These are associated with youthfulness
and cheerfulness and can call to mind childhood days spent picking buttercups and holding them under chins to reveal that you like butter. The flower is known for its beauty and innocent charm.
• Camellia (white): White camellias stand for purity and innocence, but they also symbolize admiration and respect. Camellias make beautiful additions to any bouquet.
• Daisy: Daisies are happy-looking flowers, and according to Norse mythology they represent motherhood and children.
• Delphinium: Delphin-iums come in pink, white and blue varieties and embody youth and renewal. They’re a good pick if you want to convey a continued or renewed affection for a person.
• Tulip: Tulips with an orange hue are thought to represent understanding and appreciation. They can express appreciation for Mom or another special person. Yellow tulips symbolize happiness, while pink tulips are symbolic of love. Red blooms should be reserved for sweethearts.
Various flowers symbolize feelings people want to express to their mothers, grandmothers and other special women on Mother’s Day.
1.Age of unit: Most central air units should be replaced after 15 years of use.
2.Maintainence: Central AC units should be inspected annually for safety, and to ensure maximum efficiency, expand life-span and prevent failure.
3.Climate and Environment: Extreme temperatures, sun exposure, and high humidity require central air condition systems work harder to maintain reasonable interior temperatures and humidity levels.
Add Some Additional Flavor To Your Memorial Day BBQ
MemorialDay weekend is a time for both reflection and relaxation across the United States. Memorial Day mourns and honors military personnel who lost their lives while serving in the American Armed Forces. Memorial Day parades honor such individuals, and the parades also instill pride in Americans during a muchbeloved weekend across the United States.
Though Memorial Day is
observed annually on the last Monday in May, the three-day holiday weekend marks the unofficial start of summer for millions of people each year. That kickoff typically includes lots of backyard barbecues. As millions gather to celebrate Memorial Day this year, those tasked with manning the grill can consider these ways to add some extra flavor to foods cooked over an open flame.
• Monitor temperatures
with a meat thermometer. Overcooking foods cooked over an open flame is a common mistake. Overcooked foods tend to taste dried out and fail to offer that signature juiciness associated with wellcooked barbecue staples like steak and other types of red meat. People manning the grill this Memorial Day are urged to utilize a meat thermometer, which can ensure foods maintain their juicy flavor profile and do not dry out. The ideal internal cooking temperature varies depending on which foods are being cooked, so be sure to stick to a recipe or look up the appropriate internal cooking temperature for foods that will be cooked over an open flame.
• Utilize wood chips or chunks. Another way to add flavor is to grill foods over wood chips or chunks. Chips or chunks might be flavored (mesquite is a popular flavor) or unflavored. Cooks should know that adding flavored or unflavored chips or chunks will impart a smoky flavor to anything cooked on the grill. When using a gas grill, cooks can put the chips or chunks in a smoker box or wrap them in a foil pouch to impart extra flavor without
adversely affecting the grill.
• Dry rub meats. Some people marinate grilled foods prior to cooking, but marinade can drip off when cooking food and lose much of its value in regard to adding flavor. Dry rubs are made from spices, herbs and other seasonings that won’t fall or burn off when foods are cooking. Dry rubs can add extra flavor when applied hours before cooking or even shortly before placing foods on the grill.
• Slow down. “Low and slow” is a motto embraced by people who love to smoke foods, and that same approach can be applied to more traditional grilling as well. Even if you don’t have all day to cook like you would if you choose to smoke foods, cooking low and slow can ensure foods are juicy and full of that unique taste that’s only possible when cooking over an open flame. Keep vents open only on a crack and cook foods at lower temperatures than you otherwise might. While the foods won’t be cooked as fast, they will boast more of that signature smoky flavor grilling enthusiasts love.
There’s no shortage of ways to impart some extra flavor to grilled foods this Memorial Day.
Bring Your Burger Making Skills To The Next Level
Hamburgers are a staple of menus in millions of homes. Whether you’re hosting friends on Memorial Day weekend or simply looking for a hearty midweek meal, burgers and summertime cooking go hand in hand. Hamburgers are a straightforward dish that are often prepared on a grill. But burgers also can be prepared on a stovetop, which can add a new flavor profile to this beloved staple. Those looking to do just that can try this recipe for “Beef Burgers With Onions, Spinach, Ketchup, and Blue Cheese” from Lines+Angles.
DIRECTIONS:
For the sauce: Heat the oil in a pan and lightly sauté the diced onion and garlic. Stir in the honey and sugar and simmer briefly. Mix in the tomato puree, passata, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and whiskey. Simmer until thickened. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and chilli powder to taste.
For the burgers: Place the beef in a bowl, add the onions, salt, pepper, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili sauce, and mix well. Shape into 4 burgers.
Preheat a griddle pan. Lightly oil the pan and grill the burgers for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once. During the last minute of cooking, top the burgers with cheese and allow to melt. Remove the burgers from the pan and set aside. Halve the burger buns horizontally and toast in the pan, cut-side down, for 1 minute, then remove.
Beef Burgers With Onions, Spinach, Ketchup, And Blue Cheese
Layer the bottom half of each bun with spinach and sprinkle with crispy onions. Place the burgers on top, drizzle with tomato sauce and cover with the top bun halves. Fix with a skewer if desired and serve with the remaining sauce separately.
Happenings At The Emma Clark Library
Food Drive
June 1 – 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. Suggestions include cereal, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruits and vegetables, rice, beans, tuna fish, juice, gum, snacks (pretzels, granola bars, trail mix, cookies), pasta, and pasta sauce. All are welcome to donate (residents or non-residents) during Library hours.
Exhibits for America 250
Becoming the United States: Colonial America to Reconstruction
A Long Island Library Resources Council Traveling Exhibit
On view at Emma Clark Library from May 26 - June 24
This exhibit was created by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History using items from their collection. It explores individuals, groups, and documents that have contributed to the history of the United States.
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.
Take pride in American history and discover LGBTQ activists and advocates who stood up to prejudice and ignorance. Celebrate the pioneers of the LGBTQ rights movement by learning about Barbara Gittings, Dr. John Fryer and more! Taught by Howard Rosenberg. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/ programs
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
Recycling Event
E-Waste & Metal Recycling Day
Saturday, May 16, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00
Happenings At The Emma Clark Library
continued from page 20
p.m. in the Library parking lot
Do you have outdated & unwanted electronics and metal cluttering up your house or workspace, collecting dust or taking up space? Arrow Scrap Metal and E-Waste Recycling, a NYS registered electronic waste recycling facility, can help. Bring your used computers, cell phones, laptops, servers, wire & cable, scrap metal, circuit boards, batteries, printers, hard drives & storage devices, power tools, small appliances, small electronics, keyboards/mice, stereos, flat screen TVs and computer monitors, cameras, and more. Your hard drives and old cell phones can also be shredded on site (if possible, please remove the hard drive from your computer before your arrival). Batteries (both regular and rechargeable) are accepted, but please tape the terminals.
No registration required. Open to both residents and nonresidents. Please do not line up early, as it blocks traffic into and out of the Library.
More Programs for Adults Questions? Email askus@emmaclark.org
Elder Care & Senior Living Planning Panel
Thursday, May 14, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
How we live tomorrow depends on the conversations we have today. Don’t let a change in health or a lack of planning take away your choice and your independence. This expert panel will include Angela Morrone of Elegance at Home (home health care), Lindsay Navetta of The Bristal at Lake Grove (senior living options), and attorney Brittni Sullivan of Burner Prudenti Law (estate planning). Bring your questions – these panelists are here to help you navigate your next chapter with confidence. Open to all Suffolk County residents, but registration is required. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/ programs
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
For questions regarding these programs and more, email askus@emmaclark.org
Kids “Drop In” Activities
These programs have no registration. For questions, email kids@emmaclark. org
Spring Spectacular
Wednesday, May 27 (School closed), 10:30 a.m. – 12noon
Hop on over to the Library for a spring bash bursting with fun! We’ll have spring crafts, games, & contests indoors. The Suffolk County Libraries’ Bus, music, & more will be waiting for you outside (weather permitting). For families with children ages 3 – 11 years.
Crafternoon
Saturday, May 30, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and/or Thursday, June 25 (school ½ day), 12noon – 2:00 p.m.
Stop by the Library to create a work of art with recycled materials. Perfect for families with children ages 3 – 11 years old.
Holiday Hours
Emma Clark Library will be closed on Memorial Day (Monday, May 25) and Juneteenth (Friday, June 19).
Make The Most Of Your Local Library
Locallibraries are valuable community resources offering far more than books. To take full advantage:
• Get or renew your library card for access to materials and shared resources.
• Explore all offerings, including films, programs, and community services.
• Use research databases for school or personal learning.
• Take advantage of career support and workshops.
• Attend events to connect with others.
Libraries provide a wide range of services to support learning, growth, and community engagement.
Honor Veterans This Memorial Day
Memorial Day is often associated with the excitement of a long weekend and backyard barbecues, but it is also a time to reflect on the men and women who gave their lives to defend American freedom. Established to honor those who died while serving in the Armed Forces, the
day encourages remembrance of their sacrifices. Here are a few ways to pay tribute:
• Observe the National Moment of Remembrance: This one-minute moment of silence takes place at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. Established by
How To Make Grilling Healthier
Grillingis a beloved summer tradition, but it’s not always the healthiest way to eat. Classic backyard barbecue fare like hot dogs and hamburgers may be crowd favorites, but there are simple ways to enjoy the flavor of grilling while maintaining a nutritious diet:
• Choose healthier proteins: Replace burgers and hot dogs with options like fish or skinless chicken breasts. If you still crave a burger, opt for lean ground poultry instead of beef to cut down on saturated fat.
• Practice moderation: The relaxed atmosphere of barbecues can lead to overeating. Swap out chips and heavy sides for healthier choices like fresh vegetables, fruit salad or chickpea salad, and keep portion sizes reasonable. Health experts recommend about three ounces of meat per serving, with no more than six ounces.
• Skip the salt: While salt enhances flavor, too much can contribute to high blood pressure. Try a salt-free rub made with spices like chili powder, garlic powder and paprika to add bold flavor without extra sodium.
• Add more vegetables: Grilled
Congress in 2000, it asks Americans to pause and reflect on the cost of freedom.
• Honor the American flag: On Memorial Day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff for the rest of the day, symbolizing mourning in the morning and remembrance in the afternoon.
• Place flags at gravesites: Organizations and volunteers often decorate veterans’ graves with small American flags. Families can also visit cemeteries and leave a penny or stone to show respect.
• Share stories with the next generation: Veterans can help preserve the memory of fallen service members by speaking with young people about their experiences and those of their comrades.
Memorial Day is more than a day off—it is a time to remember those who never returned home and to honor their service and sacrifice.
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.
The Reboli Center for Art & History
The Reboli Center for Art & History 64 Main Street, Stony Brook, NY 11790, rebolicenter.org
Upcoming Outdoor Painting Event
The
Reboli Center for Art and History Celebrates 10Year Anniversary with “PAINT THE TOWN!” Plein Air Painting Day and Summer Exhibition.
The Reboli Center for Art and History will celebrate its 10-year anniversary with PAINT THE TOWN!, a Plein Air Painting Day on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date: May 17).
More than 30 invited artists will paint en plein air at Stony Brook Harbor and the historic Gamecock Cottage at West Meadow Beach.
The public is invited to enjoy free activities, including interior tours of the Gamecock Cottage, guided nature tours at West Meadow Beach and historic walking tours of Stony Brook Village. Access to the cottage has been made possible through the support of Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich and his team.
Artwork from PAINT THE TOWN! will be featured in an exhibition at the Reboli Center from June 2 through July 12, 2026.
For ten years, the Reboli Center has enriched the community through art and history, and this anniversary celebration highlights that legacy and its future.
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 started with preschool jitters and will soon culminate with graduates receiving their high school diplomas.
Prom night planning reaches a fever pitch a few weeks before the big event. A significant amount of time and money are involved in making prom a night to remember. While teens may be focused on fashion and fun, parents may be wondering what they can do to steer their sons and daughters in the right direction. Here are some pointers to consider as families prepare for prom.
Set a budget
The pandemic has affected supply chains and has contributed to increased prices on all types of consumer goods, so you may find that prom attire and accessories will cost more this year. Figure out what you can afford to contribute to the prom, and ask your teenager to pitch in. If your child is footing some of the bill, there may be a greater willingness to corral spending. One way to save money is to rent a gown/tuxedo rather than purchasing one outright.
Be a parent first, friend second
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the months of April through June are some of the most dangerous times of year for teens, particularly regarding alcohol-related traffic accidents. Many teens are looking at prom night as an opportunity to let loose, and that may include alcohol consumption or drug use.
Parents must not condone underage drinking when hosting teens at home or when hosting an after-party at a hotel or restaurant where alcohol will be served. Not only is it irresponsible, it is illegal to give alcohol to anyone who is under 21.
Set an example by keeping calm
Prom planning can be stressful. Various details have to come together on the big day. Even though they may appear to be young adults, teens still may have meltdowns or impulse control issues when things don’t go their way. Set an example by reacting to obstacles calmly and finding workarounds.
Stay involved
An involved parent may help keep a teen out of trouble. A Statistics Brain survey of nearly 13,000 high school students found that 14 percent of girls reported having sex on prom night, and 5 percent of girls and 3 percent of boys lost their virginity on prom night.
There’s also the potential for sexual assault at prom, particularly when alcohol is present. Informed parents who are keeping tabs on who their children will be hanging out with and setting partying limits can make prom night as safe as possible.
K ids C o l o r i n g C o nte st !
Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Three winners will be chosenone in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10. Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to the Long Island Aquarium. All entries must be submitted by May 15. Winners will be notified on May 18. One entry per person.
