From Farm to Table: Why Shopping Local May Be Worth the Investment

More families are taking a closer look at where their food comes from and choosing to shop at farmers markets, local farms, and specialty butcher shops. The article argues that locally sourced and organic foods can offer greater transparency, allowing shoppers to ask how produce was grown and how animals were raised. It also highlights potential nutritional differences associated with grass-fed and pasture-raised meats and encourages consumers to better understand terms such as organic, antibiotic-free, and pasture-raised when making purchasing decisions.

Shopping locally can benefit more than your dinner table. Farmers markets encourage seasonal eating, connections with local growers, and support for local agriculture, while local butcher shops can provide sourcing information, custom cuts, cooking advice, and opportunities to learn more about the food you're purchasing. The article also emphasizes the community benefits of spending money directly with local producers and developing relationships with the people who grow and raise our food.

Making the switch doesn't have to mean completely changing your grocery habits—or your budget—overnight. The article recommends starting gradually by visiting a farmers market regularly, asking vendors about their growing practices, finding a trusted butcher who can explain their sourcing, and considering a local CSA for seasonal produce. With Nassau County offering a growing selection of farmers markets, specialty food stores, and local food options, even a few thoughtful changes to where and how you shop can help you become a more informed consumer while supporting the surrounding community. To read the full article click here For our free 50-free cheap things to do in Nassau County-NY guide PDF Click here

Nassau County Senior Discount Program Gains Momentum

Nassau County’s Senior Discount Program is seeing a surge in interest after a recent News 12 report brought greater attention to the initiative. Created to connect older residents with local businesses offering special discounts, the program also gives participating businesses an opportunity to attract new customers and gain greater visibility within the community. Following the coverage, more than 60 seniors contacted the Nassau County Comptroller’s Office requesting the program booklet, while four additional businesses signed up to participate.

The program continues to expand beyond traditional senior discounts, with newer participants including a women’s boutique in Rockville Centre, a pretzel shop and STEM racing center in Syosset, and a pediatric dentistry practice in Garden City. Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips is encouraging businesses of all sizes to participate, emphasizing that the initiative can simultaneously support Nassau’s seniors and its local business community.

More than 450 Nassau County businesses are currently participating in the program. Seniors can search for participating businesses online or request a printed booklet from the Comptroller’s Office, making it easier to discover savings available throughout the county. For Nassau residents looking to stretch their dollars while supporting local businesses, the growing program could be well worth exploring. For more information click here

Upcoming Community and Family Events

Yoga In The Gardens- 8/24 10:30am- 11:30am Start your week surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Old Westbury Gardens with Yoga in the Gardens, a gentle, all-levels outdoor yoga experience. Through slow, intentional poses, mindful breathing, and moments of stillness, participants can stretch, restore, and reconnect while enjoying one of Nassau County's most beautiful settings. Whether you're new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, the class encourages everyone to move comfortably at their own pace. Classes are held Mondays from 10:30–11:30 a.m. through October 26. Sessions are $32, with discounted pricing available for Old Westbury Gardens members. Because there is no indoor rain location in 2026, weather-related cancellations will be announced the evening before. For more information click here

Tiny Painters Workshop- 8/24- 8/27 10:30am- 11:30am Let your little artist explore the colorful world of creativity at Tiny Painters in East Rockaway! Designed for young children, this hands-on art program introduces budding artists to painting and creative expression in a fun, encouraging environment. Kids can experiment with colors, develop early art skills, and let their imaginations shine while creating artwork of their own. Tiny Painters runs August 24–27 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. at Children's Art Classes in East Rockaway, making it a wonderful end-of-summer activity for little ones who love to create, explore, and get artistic. For more information click here

Simply Stronger- 8/25 9:45am- 10:45am Get moving and build strength with Simply Stronger, a low-impact exercise class at the West Hempstead Public Library led by instructor Marilyn Bunger. Designed to help participants stay active while improving strength, mobility, and overall fitness, this in-person program offers an approachable way to incorporate regular exercise into your routine. The 12-session series costs $36, payable to the library, and participants must sign an exercise liability waiver. Registered participants also receive access to a 24/7 recorded video, making it easy to continue exercising at home between classes. For more information click here

Cheap Skate Wednesdays- 8/26 6:30pm- 8:45pm Roll into some affordable summer fun at Wednesday Cheap Skate at United Skates of America in Seaford! Every Wednesday throughout July and August, skaters can hit the rink from 6:30–8:45 p.m. for just $5 admission. Bring the family, meet up with friends, and enjoy an evening of music, skating, and fun without breaking the budget. Don't have skates? Rentals are available for $7, and non-skating adults can join the fun for $6. It's an easy and affordable way to add a little midweek excitement to your summer! For more information click here

Max Rarity Yu-Gi-Oh! Advanced Locals- 8/27 7:00PM Calling all Duelists! Put your deck and strategy to the test at Max Rarity Yu-Gi-Oh! Advanced Locals in Valley Stream. Players can compete against fellow Yu-Gi-Oh! fans in an Advanced Format tournament, sharpen their skills, meet other members of the local trading card community, and battle their way toward the top. The tournament takes place at Max Rarity, 175 Rockaway Avenue in Valley Stream, with a $10 entry fee and prizes awarded as store credit. Whether you're a regular competitor or looking to take your Yu-Gi-Oh! game to the next level, bring your deck and get ready to duel! For more information click here

Don't Buy ANY School Supplies - Back to School Bash! 8/29 12PM to 6PM Get the kids ready for a new school year without breaking the budget at the “Don't Buy Any School Supplies!” Back-to-School Bash in Rockville Centre! This family-friendly community event is designed to help students start the year prepared, with free school supplies and backpacks available while supplies last, along with activities and entertainment for children and families. Bring the kids out for an afternoon of back-to-school fun, community connection, and helpful giveaways before the first bell rings. It's a great opportunity for local families to celebrate the start of a fresh school year while getting some of those classroom essentials checked off the list. For More information click here.

Farmingdale Vendor Fair- 8/28 & 8/30 10am- 5pm Spend the day shopping local at the Farmingdale Vendor Fair, presented by the Kiwanis Club of Farmingdale, on Sunday, August 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Village Green. Browse a variety of vendors offering clothing, accessories, handmade crafts, beauty products, artwork, home décor, food, beverages, and unique finds. Located at 361 Main Street in Farmingdale, the fair is a great opportunity to support local vendors, discover one-of-a-kind items, and enjoy a fun day out in the community. Bring your family and friends and come ready to shop, eat, explore, and enjoy Farmingdale! For more information click here.

Upcoming Nightlife Events

Guy & Nick- 8/24 6pm- 9pm Take a musical journey through the decades with GUY & NICK at HUNTER The Restaurant in East Norwich! Featuring GUY on piano and vocals and NICK on percussion and vocals, this dynamic duo brings the sounds of the '70s, '80s, '90s and beyond to life with a mix of classic rock anthems and unforgettable ballads. Enjoy an evening of great music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks in HUNTER's elegant yet lively atmosphere. Whether you're singing along to an old favorite or simply relaxing over dinner, it's the perfect night out for classic rock fans looking for good food, good music, and plenty of nostalgia. For more information click here

Pitbull @ Jones Beach- 8/25 8pm Get ready for one of the biggest parties of the summer as Pitbull brings his high-energy “I’m Back” Tour to Jones Beach Theater on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, joined by the King of Crunk, Lil Jon. Fans can expect a nonstop night of dancing and global hits, including Pitbull favorites like “Timber,” “Fireball,” and “Give Me Everything,” all against the unforgettable waterfront backdrop of Jones Beach. Bring your crew and get ready to sing, dance, and party with Mr. Worldwide and Lil Jon for a summer concert packed with energy, nostalgia, and hit after hit. For more information click here

Bravo Reality Tv Trivia Night- 8/26 7pm Calling all Bravo fans! Put your reality TV knowledge to the test at Bravo Reality TV Trivia Night at Vitality Lounge in Hicksville on Wednesday, August 26 at 7:00 p.m. From The Real Housewives and Vanderpump Rules to Below Deck and your favorite unforgettable Bravo personalities, gather your team and see who knows the most about the drama, feuds, friendships, and iconic moments. Best of all, trivia is free to play! Make it a complete night out with Vitality Lounge's Grown-Up Meal Deals, featuring an entrée paired with beer, wine, Prosecco, or a martini. Space is limited and reservations are required, so grab your fellow Bravo superfans and get ready for a fun evening of laughs, friendly competition, food, and reality TV nostalgia. For more information click here

Chris Stapleton, Carter Faith in Wantagh- 8/26 7:30pm- 9:30pm Get ready for an unforgettable night of country music as Chris Stapleton brings his powerhouse vocals and signature blend of country, blues, and Southern rock to Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh. Fans can look forward to hearing favorites from Stapleton's award-winning catalog while enjoying live music under the stars at one of Long Island's most iconic waterfront concert venues. Joining him is rising country artist Carter Faith, adding even more Nashville sound to the evening. Grab your fellow country music fans and get ready for a summer concert filled with soulful vocals, incredible musicianship, and plenty of songs to sing along to. For more information click here

Open Mic & Mixer with Live Band @ Cabo RVC- 8/27 8:30- 11:30pm Step into the spotlight—or simply come enjoy the talent, at Open Mic Night & Mixer in Rockville Centre! This lively social event brings together singers, musicians, poets, comedians, spoken-word artists, and other performers for an evening of creativity, entertainment, and connection. Whether you're ready to share your talent or prefer cheering from the audience, it's a welcoming opportunity to experience local performers and meet new people. Come solo or bring your friends, grab a drink, mingle, and enjoy a relaxed night filled with live performances, good vibes, and community connections. It's the perfect outing for anyone looking to discover local talent or add something different to their night out. For more information click here

Freestyle Friday- 8/28 7pm- 9pm- 1pm Get ready to dance your way back to the '80s and '90s at Freestyle Friday at Moonlight Pub in Bellerose! DJ Brian will keep the party going with classic freestyle favorites for a night filled with throwback beats, dancing, and nostalgia. The party happens on the last Friday of each month from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., with upcoming dates including August 28, September 25, October 30, November 27, and December 25. Best of all, admission is free, so grab your friends and get ready for a Friday night filled with old-school freestyle hits. For more information click here

OLI DURET LIVE @ SINFUL FRIDAYS INSIDE LE SPOT CAFE- 8/28 10pm Get ready for a night of Caribbean music, dancing, and nonstop energy as Oli Duret takes the stage for Sinful Fridays at Le Spot Café on Friday, August 28. Known for his smooth vocals and infectious rhythms, the Haitian singer and performer brings his signature sound to an evening designed for those ready to dance, socialize, and enjoy a lively night out. Gather your friends, dress to impress, and experience a Friday night filled with live entertainment, great music, drinks, and island-inspired vibes. Whether you're already an Oli Duret fan or simply looking for something different to do, Sinful Fridays offers a festive way to close out the summer. For more information click here

Great Eats For the Week

Eat Meadow Farm Fresh-picked goodness is waiting in East Meadow! Stop by the East Meadow Farm Stand and fill your basket with fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables grown right here on Long Island. It's an easy way to bring farm-fresh flavor to your table while supporting local agriculture and making healthier choices for the family. The seasonal stand is listed as free to visit and runs weekly during the season. Skip the supermarket produce aisle for a day and discover what's fresh from the farm. Shop local, eat fresh, and taste the best of the season! For more information click here

Cellini Annual Italian Festival– 8/26th- 8/30th 7:30pm various times Celebrate Italian culture, food, and family fun at the Cellini Annual Italian Festival, happening August 26–30 at Michael J. Tully Park in New Hyde Park. This five-day community tradition features an international food court, zeppoles, Italian pastries, carnival rides, games of chance, vendors, and live musical entertainment every evening. Saturday night brings a spectacular fireworks display around 9:00 p.m., adding even more excitement to the festivities. Admission is just $2, with children under 6 admitted free. On Sunday from 3:00–5:00 p.m., enjoy Community Appreciation Day featuring free admission and half-price pasta. Bring the whole family, come hungry, and enjoy a summer celebration filled with food, music, rides, and Italian-American tradition. For more information click here

Community

She Means Business Networking Event LI- 8/27 6pm- 9pm Connect, collaborate, and grow. This event was created to bring together women entrepreneurs, professionals, business owners, and aspiring leaders, this empowering gathering offers an opportunity to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, share resources, and expand your professional network in a supportive environment.

Whether you're growing an established business, launching something new, or simply looking to connect with other ambitious women, come ready to network, be inspired, and create new opportunities. Bring your business cards and your best introduction—you never know which conversation could lead to your next client, collaborator, mentor, or big idea. For more information about this event click here

Happening In Nassau

Better Sleep, Calmer nights- 8/28 2pm- 3:30pm

Struggling to fall asleep, waking up with a racing mind, or starting the morning already exhausted? Join Arthur Danziger for Better Sleep, Calmer Nights, a practical wellness workshop designed to help make bedtime feel more peaceful and less stressful. Participants will explore common barriers to restful sleep, including worry, tension, and repetitive thoughts, while learning simple techniques to help calm both the body and mind.

Rather than promising perfect sleep, this workshop focuses on realistic, easy-to-use strategies for creating calmer nights. Participants will leave with a better understanding of nighttime overthinking, a step-by-step handout of calming techniques, and helpful tools they can incorporate into their nightly routine. For more information click here

Helping Hands

Fly It Forward- 8/27 6pm- 10pm Join SkyHope for Fly It Forward, a special evening dedicated to helping people reach the care and support they need. SkyHope provides free flights for patients traveling to specialized medical treatment, as well as transportation for military members, veterans, and their families through the SkyHope for Heroes program. Taking place Thursday, August 27 at 6:00 p.m. at The Snapper Inn in Oakdale, the evening will feature cocktails, dinner, silent auction packages, raffles, and inspiring stories. Come enjoy a memorable night while supporting a wonderful cause—every contribution helps make life-changing flights possible for those who need them most. For more information click here

International Overdose Awareness Day- 8/28 10am- 12pm

Join Family & Children’s Association (FCA) and members of the community for an International Overdose Awareness Day Candlelight Vigil on Friday, August 28, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at THRIVE Suffolk in Hauppauge. This meaningful gathering will honor and remember those whose lives have been lost to overdose, with each candle representing a life, a family, and a story that should never be forgotten.

The event will also provide education, awareness, and community resources to help people better understand substance use, recognize risks, reduce stigma, and prevent future loss. Come stand alongside families, friends, and neighbors as the community remembers those we've lost while continuing the fight to save lives. For instruction on how participate

Highway and State Route Closures

There are no major scheduled county-wide or state-level major highway closures announced for next week in Nassau County, though local utility work, localized paving, and standard overnight maintenance may cause minor lane restrictions. For recent storm recovery, check local beach access updates, as some local areas like Atlantic Beach facilities faced temporary weather closures.
Before driving, check the 511NY map for live traffic updates.

Weather For The Week

A Final Note with a quote

Dear Nassau Plus Family,

Here we are again, standing at that bittersweet point when summer vacation is almost over. The long days are slowly getting shorter, back-to-school preparations are underway, and before we know it, September will arrive with new schedules, responsibilities, and routines. But we're not there yet. Summer still has a little life left in it, and so do those summer bucket lists!

If there are a few things you promised yourself you'd do this summer, consider this your friendly reminder to get moving. Take that morning walk, evening jog, weekend run, or bike ride. Grab a basketball, tennis racket, baseball glove, or whatever gets you outside and moving. Fire up the grill and cook something outdoors. Eat dinner on the patio. Invite a few friends over and let an ordinary evening turn into one of those simple summer memories you didn't know you needed.

Maybe your unfinished summer plans are closer to home. Paint that room. Refresh the deck. Start that small renovation. Rearrange, redesign, build, plant, organize, or finally tackle the project you've been looking at all summer. It doesn't have to be perfect or even completely finished. Sometimes there's satisfaction simply in starting.

And if adventure has been calling, there is still time to answer. Take a hike, go camping, visit somewhere you've never been, spend an afternoon near the water, explore another Long Island town, or take a short spontaneous road trip. Not every adventure needs a plane ticket, hotel reservation, or months of planning. Some of the best ones last only a few hours.

Most importantly, let's use these final days to spend time with one another. Strengthen the bonds we already have and nurture the new ones that began this summer. Call the friend you haven't seen enough. Have another family cookout. Take the kids somewhere they'll remember. Plan one more date night. Sit outside with someone you love and talk until the mosquitoes convince you it's time to go inside.

Summer may be coming to an end, but there is still time to live it. So let's squeeze a little more laughter, movement, sunshine, adventure, creativity, friendship, and togetherness out of these final days.

Let's make some memories. Let's make the most of the time we have. And, above all, let's make the best of being us.

Stay safe, stay active, stay entertained, and enjoy the final stretch of summer.

Farm To Table