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Jones Beach Welcomes Kick-Off To Summer, Preps For Weekend Air Show

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Jones Beach State Park, now marking its 90th anniversary, is already filled with families getting a jump on the early weekend celebrations.

The spot recently picked at the fourth best beach in the United States is also ready for the 16th annual Memorial Day weekend air show, reports CBSN New York's Jennifer McLogan.

Daring and hazardous acrobatic maneuvers with clover loops and fast action flew over the thousands cheering them on.

"Being in the Air Force for 12 years, not a show goes that doesn't get me a little bit choked up," said Maj. Ray Geoffroy.

"Although we're civilians now, we're flying military airplanes and doing military maneuvers," said James Record, a member of the Skytyper flight team. "It hearkens back to the past."

MORE: Taking To The Skies With Stunt Pilots Before Jones Beach Air Show

"This has become the official kick-off to summer for Long Island," said Kristen Jarnagin of Discover Long Island. "Tourism in Long Island has become a $5.9 billion industry."

Over the years, the crowds have continued to grow.

Officials Kick Off The Season At Jones Beach

"It's patriotism, it's a beautiful day," said George Gorman of the New York State Parks Department. "They want to come down and start the summer off. We didn't have a lot of snow days this year, so a lot of kids are off. A lot of families are down here taking advantage."

Beyond all the fun in the sun, Memorial Day is at its heart about honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for America.

"They sacrifice everything for this country, it's just incredible what they do," said 11-year-old Tom Murphy.

The Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach State Park happens Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is free but parking is $10, and must be paid on the field, not toll booths. For more information, see www.bethpageairshow.com.

As for taking a swim, not many were leaving the beach just yet, as the water temperate remained about 50 degrees.

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