Try Your Luck and Have Some Fun at the Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes is a horse racing competition which is held in late spring/early summer every year. This year the stakes will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2006 and will provide a whole lot of fun for many different individuals. The Belmont Stakes are held at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York on Long Island and offer residents and visitors many different events and fun entertainment on this great day of horseracing.

About the Belmont Stakes

This year will be the 138th Belmont Stakes and the history surrounding the stakes is quite impressive. The Belmont Stakes was named after a famous financier named August Belmont. This New York businessman was a well-known individual in many different facets of politics and high society in the area. Being quite involved with horseracing as well, the Belmont Stakes was named in honor of Mr. August Belmont who was quite the racing aficionado.

With regard to the race itself, the Belmont Stakes is the oldest of the three Triple Crown events and was the first horseracing competition prior to Preakness and the Kentucky Derby. The first Belmont Stakes took place at Jerome Park in 1867 and is currently run at Belmont Park.

Belmont Stakes 2006

The Belmont Stakes 2006 will start the party on the Friday night before the Saturday races. One may think that the Triple Crown races are all about the horses and bets but this is certainly not the case. At the Belmont Stakes, those who attend will be able to enjoy food, music and fun. The whole weekend will be filled with entertaining activities which individuals can engage in before and after the races take place. A trip to the Belmont Stakes 2006 is well worth it as there will be a little something for all who attend. Those who wish to find out more can contact Belmont Park for further information. www.nyra.com/belmont/

The Lloyd Manor Estate and Jupiter Hammon

There are many historical buildings and homes in the Long Island area. One residence in particular which is rich in history is that of Lloyd Manor Estate. This beautiful home is not only rich in architectural history but due to its occupants as well. One historical figure who called Lloyd Manor home for many years was Jupiter Hammon.

Lloyd Manor Estate

Lloyd Manor Estate is a beautiful home that was constructed in 1766. The formal name of the home is the Joseph Lloyd Manor Estate named after one of its owners yet most individuals these days refer to the magnificent historical home as Lloyd Manor. The home contains furniture from the prior owner, John Lloyd II, and also various displays relating to Jupiter Hammon, the first published African American poet. Outside the home one will be treated with the sights of Lloyd Harbor as well as beautiful estate gardens. The Lloyd Manor Estate is a beautiful home inside and out which is rich with history.

The Life of Jupiter Hammon

For those who are unfamiliar with the historical figure of Jupiter Hammon, he was considered the first African American writer to publish his works in America. Born in 1711, Jupiter Hammon was sold into slavery to Henry Lloyd who lived in the town which later became known as Lloyd Harbor, New York. Jupiter Hammon was provided with an education from Nehemiah Bull, a Harvard graduate, with the permission of Henry Lloyd and allowed to visit the library of Lloyd Manor on a frequent basis. During his time spent at Lloyd Manor Estate, Jupiter Hammon wrote poems and preached to the other enslaved individuals of the manor.

The name Jupiter Hammon is most often construed with poetry and he had many of his works published throughout the years. His first published work was presented to the world in 1760 and was entitled An Evening Thought. After that point in time, Jupiter Hammon published many works during the time in which he lived at Lloyd Manor Estate which was until his death around the year of 1806. The content of his works had various religious undertones to it and dealt mainly with this specific topic.

The Lloyd Manor Estate is a wonderful place to visit, not only due to its sheer architectural beauty but also because of the occupants who once lived within this manor. Although currently closed for renovation, the manor will resume its status as a tourist attraction once the renovations have been completed.

Bring the Whole Family to the 2006 Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show at Jones Beach

For those families who are looking for a great way to welcome in the summer, why not take the whole family to the Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show at Jones Beach? This great event will be taking place on May 27, 2006 and May 28, 2006 during Memorial Day Weekend. The air show will provide a little bit of something for everyone who attends during this holiday weekend.

United States Navy Blue Angels

One of the main attractions during the air show will be the flying demonstrations performed by the great United States Navy Blue Angels. This aerial group will wow the entire crowd with their exciting dips, dives and turns. The maneuvers which the United States Navy Blue Angels perform are sure to impress and delight all who attend the show.

Additional Flying Demonstrations

Although the United States Navy Blue Angels are definitely one of the favorites at air shows, they are certainly not the only ones who will make an appearance at the 2006 Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show at Jones Beach. There are a number of other wonderful military and civilian pilots and air teams who will be flying through the air during this year’s air show. Some of the teams and pilots who will be performing include the Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II East Coast Demo Team, Air Force F-15C Eagle West Coast Demonstration Team, US Army Golden Knights, Mary Dilda with the Fed Ex T-6, Red Baron Pizza Squadron and Sean D. Tucker from Team Oracle. These are just some of the fantastic sights you will see at the air show.

General Information

Those who attend the 2006 Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show at Jones Beach will find that the cost for admission to the air show is quite reasonable. Those who attend the show will pay no admission charge to enter the air show however the standard $8.00 vehicle use fee will be in effect during that time. For those interested in a meal or drinks while attending the air show, the regular concession stands will be up and running.

The 2006 Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show at Jones Beach is sure to be a wonderful event for the whole family to enjoy.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island: Ways in Which Residents Can Get Involved

There are a number of worthy charities which operate out of the Long Island area. One such charity is the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. From the three chapter locations throughout Long Island, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island perform a number of wonderful contributions for the children of Long Island each and every day. There are a few ways in which Long Island residents can get involved and help make the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island even more successful.

Volunteer and Become a Big Brother or Big Sister

One of the best ways in which an individual can help the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization is by volunteering and becoming either a Big Brother or Big Sister. The purpose of being a Big Brother or Big Sister is to provide a good influence for children of the area who may need a mentor. One who volunteers to become a Big Brother or Big Sister does not have to possess any special skills or talents. The main idea is for the two to spend time with one another and have fun. Volunteering is a great way to help the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island organization.

Donate to Support the Cause

For those individuals who may not be able to volunteer their time to become a Big Brother or Big Sister, the organization accepts various donations towards the cause. These donations are used to keep the organization going and provide the means to cover various expenses in order to do so. Donations in the form of vehicles and clothing are also accepted and greatly appreciated.

Summary

The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization has been around for a long time. With the help from the area residents in the form of volunteerism and donations, it will continue to help children for years to come. Visit them and find out more at: www.bbbsli.org

Celebrate Spring at the 6th Annual Huntington Tulip Festival

Now that spring has arrived, individuals are trying to get into that springtime spirit by attending festivals and other spring-oriented celebrations. The Long Island area has a number of wonderful events for those individuals and families who wish to welcome in the spring. One such event being held in the Long Island area is the 6th Annual Huntington Tulip Festival which will be held on May 7, 2006 from 11 am to 4 pm in Heckscher Park.

Children’s Activity Booths

This free festival is one that provides entertainment for the whole family but especially the children. For the little ones in the family, they are sure to enjoy the many different children’s activity booths that will be set up around the festival. Free activities will be provided for the children and include face painting, make your own picture frame activity and other fabulous child-friendly activities. The various children’s activity booths will not only provide kids with some fun entertainment but allow them to be creative while doing so.

Fun for the Whole Family

For those older individuals who are children at heart, attendees are sure to enjoy the many adult activities which will entertain and delight these individuals as well. There will be a number of art exhibits presented at the Huntington Tulip Festival. One such art exhibit that will be displayed will feature the works of Alfred Maurer presented by the Heckscher Museum of Art. For those who love to listen to some music while enjoying all that the festival has to offer, the Chapin Rainbow Stage performances will provide an opportunity to do so.

Plenty of Food and Refreshments

All of the wonderful activities are sure to make festival-goers hungry and one is able to indulge in the many different types of food and refreshments which will be available for purchase at the festival. There is a little something of everything to please individuals of varying tastes when it comes to the fabulous food booths which will be in operation.

Summary

The 6th Annual Huntington Tulip Festival is sure to be a hit this year just as it was in the years past. Whether one is interested in arts, crafts, music or food, one is sure to have a great time at the festival.

Come Enjoy the Events at the Long Island Children’s Museum

The Long Island Children’s Museum is a great place for parents to bring their children. Not only will the little ones have a great time exploring and seeing new things but they will learn while doing so as the Long Island Children’s Museum has many educational activities and displays as well. Along with the permanent exhibits, the Long Island Children’s Museum hosts many events throughout the year. Some of these events will be discussed in the paragraphs below.

Early Childhood Programs

The Long Island Children’s Museum appreciates the fact that children need to begin that journey of learning no matter what age they may be. This is why the museum hosts early childhood programs. One early childhood program that is presented by the Long Island Children’s Museum is stART which combines stories with art in a compact and informative presentation. This program is held a few days each week and provides children with lessons that are both fun and educational.

Another early childhood program presented by the museum is the Music and Movement with Celina and Eli. This program is aimed at helping children to be active while appreciating music. It is a wonderful event where the children can really get involved and have a great time.

KIDS FIRST! Film Club

The KIDS FIRST! Film Club is one which focuses on bringing both classic and new releases to the children who attend the showings. Held every Friday afternoon, children can attend the showing and laugh along with their peers while learning important values and lessons along the way. Certain movies will appeal to a certain age range and one should contact the Long Island Children’s Museum for a film lineup and to obtain more information.

The Long Island Children’s Museum is a wonderful establishment whose focus is on the children. Not only does the museum present events which appeal to a wide age range of children but most of these events appeal to the parents as well. For more information visit: www.licm.org

Wonderful Places to Volunteer on Long Island

There are many wonderful charities and organizations in existence these days. However, many of these groups are ones which operate on donations and volunteerism alone. This is why it is important for individuals in the Long Island area to roll up their sleeves and try to get involved in a charity or organization whenever possible. The following paragraphs will highlight some wonderful places in which individuals can volunteer their time in order to help a beneficial cause.

Lighthouse Preservation Societies

Long Island is quite famous for its large number of lighthouses in existence in the area. From one tip of Long Island to the other, there are 12 lighthouses in all and most of these lighthouses are ones which are operated by a volunteer pool. Volunteering at a local lighthouse is beneficial for many reasons. The first reason why individuals should volunteer at a lighthouse is so that the lighthouse is adequately staffed and has the help which it needs to remain in existence. Another reason why individuals should volunteer their time to help at a local lighthouse is so that they may learn more about the history and current status of their local lighthouse. Volunteering at a lighthouse preservation society is a great way to help out and lend a hand to an organization that truly appreciates the help.

Long Island Cares

Another great organization where individuals can volunteer their time is Long Island Cares. Long Island Cares is a not-for-profit organization which is community based and organized to fight hunger in both Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island. There are many ways in which individuals can help Long Island Cares by volunteering. Individuals are needed to perform administrative tasks, engage in fundraising and participate in food drives, to name just a few. Whatever one’s talents may be, Long Island Cares is sure to have an opening for that individual. Hunger issues are ones which we all should be concerned about and those who really want to lend a helping hand can do so by contacting Long Island Cares regarding volunteer positions.

These are just two of the many wonderful organizations and charities which operate out of Long Island. Whatever charity one chooses to volunteer at, their offer to help is sure to make a difference in the lives of those who receive such aid.

Fun Activities to Attend at the Fire Island Lighthouse

The Fire Island Lighthouse is one of the most well known lighthouses on Long Island if not the entire Northeast coast. This year round tourist stop hosts guided tours as well as a wide range of activities throughout the year. The following paragraphs will mention some of these fun and educational activities which one can join in on while visiting the Fire Island Lighthouse.

Lighthouse Tract Trek

For those individuals who enjoy lighthouses and walking tours, the staff at the Fire Island Lighthouse combines the two to form the perfect activity which is the Lighthouse Tract Trek. The Lighthouse Tract Trek will be taking place on Saturday, April 22, 2006 at 8:30 am. The Lighthouse Tract Trek will feature a guided walking tour of the surrounding vicinity of the lighthouse which will begin at Robert Moses State Park and end at the lighthouse itself. For $10 per person, this wonderful tour will be both educational and fun. Those who wish to reserve a spot on the tour may contact the staff at the Fire Island Lighthouse.

Horseshoe Crabs – Living Fossils

Another event which is being hosted by the Fire Island Lighthouse staff is the educational program entitled Horseshoe Crabs-Living Fossils. This informative presentation is a great event for the whole family. On Saturday, June 10, 2006, a guided tour will leave at 7:00 pm to head to the beach so that individuals can learn about horseshoe crabs and see them laying their eggs during that time. Individuals should bring a flashlight for the walk and the fee is $10 per family or $5 per individual. For those lucky individuals who are Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society members, the horseshoe crab walk is free. Reservations are required and one can reserve a spot by contacting the Fire Island Lighthouse staff.

The Fire Island Lighthouse is a wonderful place to visit while in the area. Not only will one be able to enjoy the scenic views of the lighthouse but will also be able to engage in fun and educational activities as well.

Where to Stay in the Hamptons

The Hamptons is an area on Long Island known for its beautiful views and celebrity residents. This popular vacation spot is not only busy in the summertime but sees year round visitors. There are many wonderful establishments in the Hamptons which provide fantastic accommodations for visitors. Some of these places will be discussed further and this information will provide individuals with some options when it comes to booking a stay at an establishment in the Hamptons.

Driftwood on the Ocean

For those individuals who are looking for a seaside establishment, Driftwood on the Ocean in Montauk might just be the perfect place to stay. This wonderful establishment features oceanfront rooms in a variety of sizes and styles which guests can choose from when booking a room. Those who choose to stay at Driftwood on the Ocean will not only be pampered by the accommodating staff but will be able to indulge in a wide range of activities as well. Some of the activities one can engage in while staying at Driftwood on the Ocean include swimming, tennis, shuffleboard, basketball, ping-pong and playground fun for the kids. There is a little something for everyone at the Driftwood.

The Surf Club Resort

Another great Montauk resort establishment is the Surf Club Resort. This wonderful vacation hotspot is also situated right on the beachfront and has 92 luxury apartments for rent. One who stays at the Surf Club Resort will find a wealth of options when it comes to activities for children and adults alike. For those fishermen in the crowd, don’t forget the fishing pole as one can indulge in some surf fishing while in the area. The kids will love the beach access so bring the pail and shovel as well.

Ocean Colony Beach and Tennis Club

The name of this fabulous Amagansett resort says it all. For those individuals who show an interest in beach and tennis activities, the Ocean Colony Beach and Tennis Club may just be the perfect retreat for those looking for a great vacation. Each of the rooms at the Ocean Colony Beach and Tennis Club overlook some type of water body, whether it be the Atlantic Ocean or the bay, and have a small kitchen within their luxury accommodations for the convenience of their guests. Beach activities and tennis amenities are not the only type of recreational activities present at the Ocean Colony Beach and Tennis Club. With their large swimming pool and clubhouse, one will surely not be bored while staying at this beautiful resort.

There are a wealth of options to choose from when it comes to resort accommodations in the Hamptons. It is not difficult to find a place to stay while vacationing in the Hamptons. The hard part is narrowing down the options to one place, as all are wonderful in their own way.

Friends of the Arts Organization: Attend an Event Hosted

The Friends of the Arts is a group which hosts a number of events in the Long Island area. The purpose behind this not-for-profit organization is to bring culture into the lives of Long Islanders by presenting various programs and events. Attending one of these sponsored events is a wonderful way to enrich one’s life and have a great time while doing so. The following paragraphs will highlight some of the upcoming events that may be worth a visit.

Beethoven Festival

The Beethoven Festival is an event that is sponsored by the Friends of the Arts and will be held on Sunday, June 18, 2006. This grand event will take place in the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, which is located in Oyster Bay on Long Island. This daylong event will feature all things Beethoven from music to displays to informational discussions. For those who love Beethoven or classical music in general, one will surely appreciate all that the Beethoven Festival has to offer. More information regarding this event will be released by the Friends of the Arts in April but be sure to mark this date on your calendars now.

Concerts at Coe Hall

The Friends of the Arts organization is one that also hosts a variety of concerts at Coe Hall, located in Oyster Bay. From classical to contemporary, the concerts will entertain and delight all who attend them. Being in attendance at one of these performances allows individuals to simply sit back and enjoy the music while forgetting all else. The concerts which are held at Coe Hall offer a little something for everyone and are sure to please.

General Information

The Friends of the Arts organization offers many different show selections and festivals for those who are interested in presentations of this type. The best way to learn more about this great not-for-profit organization is to visit their website or contact the Friends of the Arts staff directly. Not only will one be able to learn more about the organization from staff members but they may also find out how to purchase tickets and become a member of Friends of the Arts if they so desire. Friends of the Arts is a wonderful group that provides enlightening events for the general public. For more information visit: www.fotapresents.org