I just donated my daughter's car to this charity - Feel Better Kids.ORG (not Inc. !!)…read more This is a wonderful, LOCAL charity that really, truly helps local kids in need. I thought about Make A Wish & Breast Cancer & other National charities, but they have so much corporate funding that I wanted my little bit to help here on Long Island where there is so much need. THINK LOCAL :)

I participated in the Long Beach Polar Bears earlier this month and it instantly became a highlight…read moreof my 2024. I dressed up as a giant taco because well... why not! Running into the freezing Atlantic Ocean with a bunch of fellow Long Islanders and New Yorkers was sooo freaking fun. Everyone's enthusiasm, utter joy and sheer craziness combined for an absolutely epic time. This annual event was set up to help raise money for the Make a Wish Foundation, so it really is heartwarming to see such an incredible turnout year after year.

The Long Beach Polar Bears represent what is best in a community: neighbors coming together to have…read moresome fun and, more importantly support a great cause. In the case of the Long Beach Polar Bears, the cause supported is the Make a Wish Foundation. Make a stop by their webpage and learn about them. They are a really well-run organization and you can be sure where your donated dollars are going. If you aren't up to the. Superbowl Splash, pick up some high quality polar wear to support the cause.

This is a cool place for kids and adults if you're a dino lover. They have interactive learning…read morespots, some animals to admire (we got to pet a rabbit), and animatronic dinosaurs (not the same as Dinosaurs Alive from the 90s, iykyk). Parking is very small, but not that many people come and go when I go. Admission is $15. Why the low rating you ask? When I did this a year ago, they had you wait in the lobby and gave you a guided tour and explained things, made you hold a snake, and gave you items to hold and touch that aren't part of the free for all it is now. I asked if they can do the guided tour, and we were told they have staff along the way to answer questions...not one human in site! So unfortunate, you guys really need that element back! By the way, I kind of feel bad for the goat that has his pen right next to the trex as big as a house...I've seen Jurassic Park, they are not besties. I'm sure that goat staring him down all day is scared for his life. :(

Free trail around the lake for a relatively quiet tranquil walk around a paved path. Plenty of…read moreparking available in the residential neighborhood around the preserve. Saw various birds around the lake as well

Very fun to dig. Comic and vintage toy collectors should check it out. Staff very friendlyread more

An adorable well organized thrift shop with amazing prices. Stop by and give them some business…read more You'll be glad you did.

This school truly feels like home. It's a warm, beautiful program that has helped my son grow and…read moreflourish in every way. The teachers are absolutely wonderful -- you can tell they genuinely love what they do, and it shows in how they care for the children every single day. My son has been there since the 2s separation class and is now in Pre‑K, and I couldn't be happier with his experience. My daughter is currently in the 2s class and will be continuing into the 3s because we trust this community so much. It's a lovely environment with a supportive staff, a real sense of community, and the best teachers. You won't regret choosing this school. Laura Romano

I can't say enough good things about St Marks Cooperative. This school is a hidden gem that I…read morewished I had found with my first born. Our first experience was in a parent and me class which met once a week. I felt welcomed by the teacher and the other parents. The children are introduced to circle time, snack time, turn taking etc. Parents are given an opportunity to socialize and talk with the teacher. It gave me a sense of community and allowed me to feel comfortable sharing concerns and parents an opportunity to learn from each other. It was a no brainer to have my son enrolled in the 3 year old class for the following year. My son is thriving in the class. I love that the class sizes are small, the teachers are certified and many have children who are alumni themselves. The directors are familiar with not only the children but the families. They help coordinate services and keep lines of communication open. I feel supported and know that my child is learning through play and hands on experiences. I love that this school is a cooperative as it gives a unique opportunity for parents and caregivers to be involved in the classroom. This has allowed me to observe my son in social settings and allows me to get to know the teachers and fellow classmates. If you are considering a pre school for your child I can't recommend St Marks Cooperative enough. Your child will thrive and learn and grow which will ultimately help prepare them for kindergarten.