Saltaire News » Fire Island News & Great South Bay News

“Unfortunately, and despite our warnings and advice to leave [Fire Island] while conditions allowed, many decided not only to stay but to come over to the island,” scolded Ocean Beach Mayor James Mallott in an emailed newsletter on the afternoon of Sept. 26, during the height of the nor’easter. “These decisions put themselves and their families in danger and jeopardized our first responders who had to answer calls that never should have been.”

Dunewood

Nor’easter Floods Fire Island and Triggers Rescues Despite One Mayor’s Warnings

Posted on September 27, 2026

Outgoing Saltaire Mayor Hugh O’Brien was praised for his long service to the village in his final meeting as mayor on Aug. 22. O’Brien lost his bid for reelection on Aug. 14 to Trustee Susan Skerritt. She received 292 votes to O’Brien’s 80. She began her term as mayor on Labor Day, Sept. 7.

Saltaire

New Mayor Begins Her First Term After Being Sworn in at Aug. 22 Saltaire Village Board Meeting

Posted on September 8, 2026

Friday, August 28 (7 p.m.) Lilacs & Roses: Book Signing and Poetry Reading The Babylon Village Historical Society and the Babylon Village Arts Council invite you to an evening of poetry, inspiration, and celebration at the Babylon Village Museum, 117 W Main St., Babylon. Local published poets Cheryl Babirad and Christie Leigh Babirad will read poems aloud and chat with participants. Join the community’s creative side at this fun evening event! This event is FREE and open to all! For details, visit babylonvillagehistoricalsociety.org.

As August Turns Into September: What To Do This Weekend and the Week Ahead on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay

Posted on August 27, 2026

Weekend of August 22 &23 Arts Project of Cherry Grove Art Show The Arts Project of Cherry Grove (APCG) Art Show is returning this summer, reimagined and inside the beautiful air conditioned Cherry Grove Community House. Artists and artisans from the Grove, Fire Island communities, and as far away as the city will be displaying their art for viewing as well as sales. There will be a APCG’s members reception Saturday, August 22 from Noon-1 p.m., and from 1–5p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday the show is open to the public.

Things To Do on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay Over the Weekend and as We Approach the Last Full Week of August

Posted on August 21, 2026

Sunday, August 16 (Noon–4 p.m.) Support two great causes at this community fundraiser benefiting Canine Companions and the Kismet Community Association. Held at Dive Kismet, the afternoon will feature live music, local vendors, raffles, food and drinks, and the chance to meet service dogs, puppies, and veterans. Admission is $20 per person and includes a raffle ticket for a chance to win a VIP tour for four of Canine Companions’ Medford campus. Proceeds will support Canine Companions’ mission and programs that benefit the Kismet community.

Fire Island Pines

Midway in August: Where to Go and What to Do on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay this Weekend, the Week Ahead, and Beyond

Posted on August 14, 2026

During its July 25 meeting, the Saltaire Board of Trustees discussed fire and emergency response coverage, expansion of the village’s composting program, a proposed memorial bench, and ongoing noise concerns.

Saltaire

July 25 Saltaire Board of Trustees Meeting Addresses Fire Response, Composting and Noise Concerns

Posted on August 12, 2026

Kawaii Art Workshop Saturday, August 8 (11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) Kids can explore the playful world of Kawaii art during a beginner-friendly workshop hosted by the Islip Arts Council on Saturday, August 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The one-hour class will introduce young artists to the fundamentals of Kawaii-style drawing, including color, shapes, shading, and technique. Students will learn how to create adorable Kawaii-style animals and objects while building the skills needed for further study of the art form. The class costs $25 and will take place at the Islip Arts Council’s Offices & Gallery at South Shore Mall in Bay Shore, next to Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Summer in August: Things To Do this Weekend and the Week Ahead Along the Great South Bay and on Fire Island

Posted on August 6, 2026

Weekly in August on Thursday and Saturday (9 a.m.-2 p.m.) NY State Parks Shark Shack Sharks are an extremely diverse group of animals on the planet, yet they’re also among the most feared. In this hands-on program at Robert Moses Field 5, near the playground (weather permitting), patrons will learn that this group of fish is full of diversity! The Shark Shack is meant to educate the public about the shark species native to New York while also introducing other marine life in our waters and how to guide a shark interaction. Experience the pop-up display full of shark-related items, turning what once was fear into fascination! This event is FREE to attend. For details, visit parks.ny.gov/visit/events/ny-state-parks-shark-shack.

Fire Island Pines

Hello August: Things To Do Over the Weekend and Week Ahead on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay

Posted on July 31, 2026

The Fire Island Dance Festival returns to Fire Island Pines on July 18 and 19, bringing world-class dance performances to a waterfront stage overlooking the Great South Bay. The annual event combines acclaimed dance performances with the unique setting of Fire Island, drawing audiences together for a weekend of artistry, community, and philanthropy. The festival serves as a fundraiser for Dancers Responding to AIDS, a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS that provides support to people affected by HIV/AIDS and other critical health challenges. Leadership and patron ticket packages include cocktails and a DJ party at Whyte Hall. Tickets may be purchased online or in person at the Pines Harbor. Additional information and ticket details are available at https://dradance.org/

Books & Authors

Smoke on the Water: Things To Do on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay July 18-26

Posted on July 17, 2026

Propane cylinders in a house backyard on a sunny day

Saltaire

Propane Storage, Surplus Jet Ski, and More at Saltaire Village Meeting

Posted on July 7, 2026

Vann-race-the-narrows_10

After the Fourth of July: Where to Go and What To Do After the Big Holiday

Posted on July 5, 2026

The board then discussed the village’s potential contribution to the funding of a Fourth of July fireworks show. The Saltaire Events Organization (SEO) had previously asked the board to donate $5,000 on the condition that the group raise $21,175 to fund a $26,175 show. Carol Hochman, a Saltaire resident and a director of the SEO, shared that the group had nearly reached their goal. As of the May 30 meeting, they had almost raised $20,000. Among the board members, there was much discussion and some disagreement. Trustee Frank Wolf said that he would abstain if this were being voted on. Given the wealth of certain community members, Wolf felt it could be privately funded. Trustee Anna Kovner also disagreed with the proposal and abstained, citing the negative environmental impact of fireworks. Trustee Susan Skerritt supported the proposal, arguing that this year’s holiday holds special significance as our country’s 250th anniversary. Trustee Katie Lihn also supported it, saying, “It's an important one for the community, and the children absolutely love it.”

Saltaire

Saltaire Meeting 5/30: Water Taxi Laws, Fee Changes and Fireworks

Posted on June 23, 2026

More from our sister sites

A Maryland woman is leading the effort in attempting to get the Joseph B. Glancy dredge boat restored.

Long Island Press

Woman races time in bid to preserve historic Oyster Bay fishing boat

FILE - Two police officers investigate a crime scene in a subway car.

Bronx man charged with fatally stabbing Queens straphanger on J train platform

Schneps Podcasts

Chloe Mikala, Thank You For Coming Out (Minisode)

Shane Tull, Uche Onwa, and Dr. Julian Watkins during a panel discussion at The New School's Tisch Auditorium during the 2024 In My Mind Conference.

Annual In My Mind Conference set to spotlight climate change, mental health