As summer continues, I hope everyone is finding time to relax, make memories with family and friends, and enjoy everything our community has to offer. Whether you’re attending a local event, taking a vacation or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, I wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe rest of the summer.

With the warmer temperatures still sticking around, remember to stay hydrated, check in on neighbors and loved ones, and find fun ways to beat the heat. There are also plenty of opportunities in the weeks ahead to get out, meet your neighbors and support local organizations.

Blood drive Aug. 20
Wallkill Reformed Church will host a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at the Wallkill Hook, Ladder and Hose Fire Company.

Appointments can be scheduled at www.RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use the keyword “Wallkillrefchurch.”
As an August donation incentive, those who give blood during the month will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Terms and conditions are available at rcblood.org/August.

Family movie night
Mid Hudson Christian Church will host its final Family Flick Friday of the summer on Aug. 21, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The free family movie night will feature a popular, family-friendly film on the big screen.

Complimentary popcorn, drinks and snacks will be provided. For movie details, showtimes and updates, text “MOVIE” to 845-859-9223 or visit www.mhccwallkill.com/movie-nights.
The church is located at 2393 Route 300 in Wallkill.

Drum circle
A drum circle will be held at Kobelt Airport at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. Participants are encouraged to BYOD — bring your own drum — and join in the music and community gathering.

Senior citizens
The Wallkill Senior Citizens meet every other Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the community room at Town Hall. New members age 55 and older are always welcome.

The group offers occasional trips, luncheons and guest speakers. For more information, contact President Carmel Bellas at 914-588-8892.

Bingo at the firehouse
Wallkill Firehouse bingo is held every Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Come out for an evening of fun, games and community fellowship.

Pancake breakfast
The Wallkill Firehouse pancake breakfast is held on the first Sunday of every month. It’s a longstanding community tradition and a great way to enjoy breakfast while supporting the local fire company.

Spaghetti dinner
The Shawangunk Republicans will hold their annual spaghetti dinner from 3 to 6 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Wallkill Firehouse. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for children and $50 for a family of four.
For tickets, contact Colleen at 845-629-7504.

Wine, spirits & psychic medium
The Wallkill Auxiliary will host an afternoon featuring wine and spirits and psychic medium Lisa Morrison from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20.
For tickets and additional information, contact President Kayla at 845-857-693.

There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the final weeks of summer in Wallkill. Whether you’re giving blood, gathering for a movie, joining a drum circle, enjoying bingo or breakfast, or simply getting together with friends and neighbors, these events are a reminder of what makes a community strong: people coming together and supporting one another.

So enjoy the rest of summer, stay cool and safe, and take advantage of the many opportunities to connect with your neighbors right here in Wallkill.