Long Island

New York – September 08, 2026 -- AARP New York has rolled out a Staycation and New York Experiences campaign offering free events, day trips, classes and downloadable postcards to help residents 50 and older stretch their budgets this fall.

Rising utility bills are driving the push for local, low-cost fun.

An AARP report released earlier this year found that 84% of surveyed New Yorkers saw their utility bills increase over the past year, and 88% expect costs to keep climbing. Family caregivers face added transportation, medical and household expenses on top of that, according to AARP New York.

A nationwide survey shows staying home has become the norm.

People Magazine labeled 2026 'Staycation Summer,' pointing to a Monster survey in which 52% of workers said rising living costs kept them home more this summer, 39% cut back on trips, and 37% sought cheaper leisure activities.

Plainview – September 08, 2026 -- Mid Island Y JCC will officially become Manes JCC after receiving a naming gift from longtime member Dr. Harvey Manes and the Manes Peace Prize Foundation.

The announcement came Wednesday evening at a community celebration at the agency's Plainview location, drawing members, neighbors and supporters from across Long Island. CEO Rick Lewis, board leadership and Dr. Manes spoke at the event, which included the unveiling of the new name.

Three renovation projects are already underway

The gift will fund immediate capital improvements alongside longer-term investments in facilities and programs. Crews are resealing and restriping the parking lot ahead of members' return in September, installing a new floor in the group fitness studio, and replacing fitness center equipment that has been in place since the facility's 2012 renovation.