LI70K Featured Places

5

Harry Chapin

Many people may remember Harry Chapin as the guy that sang “The Cats in the Cradle” in the 1970s, but Long Islanders still mourn the loss of this kind and gentle storyteller, a man who was one of their own, and whose selfless philanthropic efforts during his lifetime still resonate across the Island today. … read more

21

Dixie Riddle Cups

During those hots days of summer in the 1970s, youngsters had the opportunity to quench their kid-sized thirst – AND learn a new joke at the same time, something sure to make their friends giggle. Dixie Riddle Cups were there whenever you needed a few gulps of water or Kool-Aid to wet your whistle, and they remain fondly remembered to this day. … read more

383

Smith Haven Mall

Only months before the 70s decade rolled in, the Smith Haven Mall opened its doors to the public. Centrally located in Lake Grove, it was a welcome news to a populace fed up with driving to Roosevelt Field for their shopping. Today, it sadly resembles every other mall in the country. But back in the day, it was quite the sight to see. … read more

1

Sno-Cone Machines

What’s not to love about a sno-cone in summer? Even better, what if you could make them yourself? Well, the folks at Hasbro had 1970s kids covered thanks to two iconic sno-cone machines, each of which churned out millions of the icy treats over the decade, building the arm muscles of thirsty kids all over Long Island. … read more

8

Drake’s Cakes

While the rest of the world mourns the demise of Hostess, there was another casualty in the snack cake world, one that hits a little closer to home for Long Island 70s Kids. Of course, we’re talking about those beloved Drake’s Cakes, an underdog that held its own on the East Coast for over a century, then disappeared almost overnight. Let’s take a look back. … read more

1

Tupperware

Think back to the summers of your youth. You’re playing outside with your friends and you’ve worked up quite a thirst. Thankfully, there is a plastic pitcher in the fridge filled with Kool-Aid that you’ll proceed to pour into an indestructible plastic glass, both items courtesy of Tupperware, a parent’s favored choice throughout the decade. … read more

3

Lawn Darts

More exciting than croquet or horseshoes, Lawn Darts once held the distinction of being a fun outdoor game to play in backyards, beaches and parks across America. Today, they are illegal in most areas. Read on to learn how Lawn Darts went from popular recreation activity to the toy that would live in infamy. … read more

331

TSS

Those who grew up on Long Island in the 70s likely remember the Times Square Stores, or as they were better known, TSS. Although never exactly plentiful, these department stores were memorable for their discount prices in the pre Wal-Mart era. Today, they exist only in our memories. … read more

2

Highlights for Children

Question: What publication is most likely to be found in the waiting room of a doctor or dentist? Answer: Highlights for Children. For over seven decades, this kid-friendly magazine has served to entertain, educate and even offer a little moral guidance to millions of youngsters around the country. … read more

72

Roller Rinks

Skating has a rich tradition on Long Island, and enjoyed a surge of popularity in the 70s. Back then, there was a plethora of roller rinks to lace up a pair of skates and travel in a circle with your friends for a few hours. Sadly, those places are few and far between today. Let’s take a look back at some of the more memorable places to skate during the decade. … read more