Kismet

Wow. August. I can’t believe how fast the time goes. We are halfway through one of the best seasons to be on Fire Island. The air is feeling warmer and the streets of Kismet seem more full Monday through Thursday. The town is buzzing with kids who have the summer off and are focused on riding their bikes and ordering Moose Tracks ice cream from the Market.

Kismet was booming on Saturday, July 22, while Rich Mahogany played in the Surf’s Out Courtyard for fan appreciation night. With over 300 plus people filling their courtyard, many were dancing, laughing, and enjoying Rocket Fuels being poured by Stormy Barbara. Rich Mahogany, a powerhouse band on Fire Island, played many of the classics and the gang at Surf’s Out threw T-shirts to the crowd.

Simultaneously, Pine Walk was in full swing with their 3rd Annual Block Party. With families from over 10 houses and the Bulk Head Condo’s participating, Kismet residents were excited to kick off their flip flops and enjoy. Each house contributed to the party by providing a full spread of food. Great drinks and amazing music by Kismet’s favorite, JHaus Band, made this night one for the books.

The after party was at Kismet Inn as the Dirty Vice Band made residents never want to go to sleep. The band started around 11 p.m. and played into the wee hours of the morning. The light up disco ball created the perfect scene for dancing and fun.

This past week we remembered a Kismet legend who left us just four years ago. It was a sad day when Joey “The Package” Farrar passed away July 25, 2013. Joey and his family lived in Kismet for the winter months and they spent their summers on Sexton Island. His father worked and lived on the island for many years. He is survived by his beautiful daughter, Farrah, who still frequents Kismet every summer. I am reminded of this great man, one I knew my whole life, for his contagious laugh, kind heart, and year-round tan.

I got the chance to check out the Tim Mooney and Friends Band at Kismet Inn on Thursday, July 27. The band was rocking and everyone was loving the mix of Billy Joel and Lady Gaga. They had this spectacular lead singer, Jen, who jumped in for a few songs and blew the crowd away with her vocals. If you haven’t had a chance to hear them play, no stress. They are on the schedule a few more times this summer.

The Gavin’s Got Heart Foundation, a nonprofit based in Islip, will be bringing their fundraising efforts to Kismet. Join their team on Saturday, Aug. 5 for a morning walk past Fire Island Lighthouse as they head to Surf’s Out. Once in Kismet, they will have celebratory bagels and beach games for those who participated. All proceeds raised will go to the Gavin’s Got Heart Foundation, which helps the families of children battling congenital heart defects (CHDs). The organization hopes to offer emotional and financial support to these families to allow them to focus on what is most important, caring for and loving their heart warrior!

If you missed fireworks on the Fourth of July weekend, you are in luck. On Saturday, Aug. 5, there will be fireworks on the barge outside of Saltaire. The Kismet docks will have a perfect view of this special treat. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the show. The 31st Annual Barefoot Black Tie Dinner Benefit is quickly approaching. Join the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society on Saturday, Aug. 12 from 6:30 to 11 p.m. Enjoy a catered dinner while dancing to the sounds of the Tradewinds Band. The event will include an open bar and silent auction. This is the perfect evening to support one of Fire Island’s greatest treasures atop the Lighthouse terrace. Tickets are available for $175 per person but are very limited. Call 631-321-7028 to reserve your tickets today.

Stop into Kismet Fire House on Sunday, Aug. 13, for the annual duck races. We are hoping to see some returning champs and newcomers participate in this community event.

SAVE THE DATES:

Saturday, Aug. 5

Tradewinds Band, 6 p.m. at Surf’s Out

White Party, 10 p.m. at Surf’s Out

Don Russ Wiley, 11 p.m. at Kismet Inn

Wednesday, Aug. 9

Paul Johnson Quartet, 7 p.m. at Kismet Inn

Thursday, Aug. 10

Tim Mooney and Friends Band, 7 p.m. at Kismet Inn

Saturday, Aug. 12

Project Vibe Reggae Band, 6 p.m. at Surf’s Out

JHaus Band, 11 p.m. at Kismet Inn