As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Island Park is also celebrating its 100th birthday.

From 1926 to 2026, a full century has passed. A 100th anniversary comes only once. For the people who live here, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment. On August 15th, Island Park marked this historic day with a time capsule ceremony, a centennial parade and a concert by the water.

The celebration began that morning at the Island Park Fire Department.

A time capsule sealed in 1976 was opened 50 years later. The items inside brought back memories of Island Park from another time. Fifty years ago, local residents saved a part of their lives for the future. Today, a new generation was able to see it. The time capsule connected Island Park’s past with its present. But the true history of a community is not only found in the things it saves. It is also found in the people who serve it and care for it.

That morning, a new time capsule was also sealed. It will remain in the same place until it is opened again in 2076. The items inside represent Island Park today. They also carry the hopes of the community for the future. When people open it 50 years from now, they will see not only a piece of history, but also the warm and caring spirit of Island Park.

After the ceremony, the centennial parade began. Government officials, firefighters, local organizations, families and children all joined the celebration. Former mayors and community leaders also returned to celebrate with local residents. For 100 years, generations of people have helped build, serve and protect Island Park. Volunteer service has always been an important tradition here. Some people began serving the fire department and the community when they were young. Decades later, they are still helping others. That spirit of service has passed from one generation to the next. People may change and time may pass, but the tradition of caring for this community continues. Police cars, fire trucks, classic cars, music and parade groups filled the streets. People stood along the roads, cheering and celebrating together. On this special day, the normally quiet island came alive.

At that moment, 100 years became more than just a number. It connected Island Park’s past, present and future. Over the past century, Island Park has also faced storms and difficult times. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit this area hard. Floodwater covered the streets and damaged many homes. The storm changed the lives of many local families. But Island Park did not give up. Neighbors helped one another. Families rebuilt their homes and slowly brought their lives back to normal. Through this difficult time, Island Park became even stronger and more united. The peaceful and beautiful community we see today was rebuilt by the people who call it home. This is the true spirit of Island Park: When difficult times come, people stand together, help one another and rebuild together.

In the afternoon, the celebration moved to Masone Beach. Masone Beach is Island Park’s own beach and waterfront park. It is also a special gathering place for local residents. People gathered by the water to enjoy the music and celebrate together. Out on the bay, there was another special group of guests. Some residents arrived by boat. They stopped on the water and enjoyed the concert from the bay. On shore, there were music and happy crowds. On the water, there were boats and a gentle sea breeze. This is the special way of life here in Island Park.

One hundred years of history—and a new beginning. I’m proud to be part of the Island Park family.

Happy 100th Birthday, Island Park!