Community Service With A Schmear: Seaford Bagels Wins Empire Award

SEAFORD, NY. — Seaford Bagels was named the latest recipient of the New York State Empire Award Thursday, accepting an award that recognizes the bagel shop as a cornerstone of the community it serves.

Open for over 30 years, State Senator Steve Rhoads said Seaford Bagels “has gone beyond serving delicious food.” Rhoads presented the award, which is given out by the New York State Senate to businesses that make a difference in the community around them.

In Seaford Bagels’ case, that difference comes through contributions to local veterans, church and temple events, schools, little league teams and more.

“Their engagement extends to community events such as the Seaford Chamber of Commerce Trunk or Treat at Seamans Neck Park, the Broncos Father/Son Fishing Trip, the annual Easter Egg Hunt, and serving as a Gold Sponsor for Seaford’s 100th Anniversary Carnival this past July,” Rhoads’ office said.

While thirty years slinging bagels and schmears is a remarkable time for a family-owned business, Rhoads said Seaford Bagels wasn't just getting recognized for mixing a good dough.

“Seaford Bagels exemplifies the very best of a small business: deeply rooted in the community, generous in spirit, and committed to bringing people together," Rhoads said.

Rhoads added that this recognition highlights the bagel store's, "unwavering dedication, celebrating a business that not only strengthens Seaford but inspires pride, connection, and lasting impact throughout the entire community."

In recent months, the Empire Award has also been presented to Abby's Parkside Nursery & Florist in Wantagh and Olive It Boutique in Merrick.