RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY - LITTLE LASH & BROW BOUTIQUE
On Saturday, April 12th, Little Lash & Brow Boutique, 31 Deer Park Ave, Babylon, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate its grand opening. The boutique has expanded into a three-times larger space. It now offers innovative brow and scalp infusions for regrowth alongside specialized skincare services for women over 40. With a focus on enhancing natural beauty, the boutique continues to provide top-tier permanent makeup solutions.
BEER - SODA - LOTTO
EXOTIC WAREHOUSE
APRIL HAPPENINGS
THURS., APRIL 17th
7:00PM
VOICES AT THE TABLE
Farmingdale United Methodist Church Presents "Voices At The Table", 407 Main Street, invites the community to a live retelling of the story of the Last Supper on Maundy. For information please contact the church at office@ farmingdaleumc.org or call 516 694-3424
SAT., APRIL 19th
10:00AM-2:00PM
FOOD DRIVE
N. Babylon Lions Club Food Drive at ShopRite 1960 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please contact donnaquarant@ gmail.com
11:00AM-1:00PM
FOURTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT’S EGG HUNT
Sen. Martinez announces annual district egg hunt. Families are encouraged to hop on down to Geiger Park for this year's Eggceptional Egg Hunt. Remember to bring your basket as you gather your little bunnies for this egg-stra special day, because it's going to be quite the hoppening! The egg-stravaganza will also provide attendees an opportunity to dispose of unused or expired medications and shred sensitive documents. Geiger Park, 130 Grant Boulevard in Deer Park.
11:00AM-2:00PM
PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY Costello's Ace Hardware of
HOLIDAYS
12th - PASSOVER BEGINS
15th - TAXES DUE
20th - EASTER
22nd - EARTH DAY
MAKE A SUBMISSION!
Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Farmingdale presents photos with the Easter Bunny. Free for everyone! The Easter Bunny will take pictures with your family, kids, and pets on Saturday, April 19th. Make sure to bring your camera. 242 Broadhollow Road in Farmingdale. For more information, please call 631-694-1100
11:00AM-2:00PM CLOTHING SALE
St. Patrick’s Church, 305 Carll’s Path in Deer Park is having a Clothing Sale in the church hall, rain or shine. We have women’s, men’s, and children’s clothes, shoes, and accessories at great prices. Hot beverages will be served. Come by and take a look.
For more information, please call 631-242-7530
THURS, APRIL 22nd
7:00PM
GENERAL MEETING
N. Babylon Lions Club General Meeting. Phelps Lane Pool BldgBlue Room, 151 Phelps La., N. Babylon. We're not just Pancakes and Pasta, join us in helping others while having fun. For more information, please contact: Joefatuzzo@gmail.com
THURS., APRIL 24th
1:45PM–7:30PM
BLOOD DRIVE
Levittown Fire Department with Senator Steve Rhoads 120 Gardiners Avenue, Levittown Follow the link to schedule an appointment: https://Donate. nybc.org/Donor/Schedules/Drive_
schedule/323184 or call 1-800 933-BLOOD. For more information, or help scheduling an appointment, please contact Ron Hlawaty at ronhlawaty@yahoo.com or Jodie Behrens email resqchick048@ gmail.com. Appointments Preferred. Walk-Ins Welcome!
6:30PM
A NIGHT IN MONTE CARLO
The Heritage Club in Farmingdale is hosting a A Night in Monte Carlo. Cocktail reception, followed by an elegant buffet dinner and extensive Viennese display. The event will feature casino gaming, raffle prizes and art pieces available for purchase and created by UCP-LI artists. Join us for an unforgettable evening in support of United Cerebral Palsy of Long Island! To purchase tickets, please visit https://specialevents. ucp-li.org/2025MonteCarlo. For more information, please contact cschramm@ucp-li.org | 631-2320011 ext. 450
SAT., APRIL 26th
10:00AM
ANNUAL ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION
The community is invited to the annual Arbor Day Celebration in Amityville at the corner of South Bayview Ave. and Bayview Pl. in Amityville. (south of Merrick Road). Get educational information on tree planting and maintenance and celebrate the day with a tree planting to beautify the open space known as The Mary Carroll Marsden Community Garden.
Recipe Of The Week: No-Bake Cheesecake Eggs
No-Bake Cheesecake Eggs
Serves 2
Base
1 medium chocolate Easter egg
35 grams unsalted butter
75 grams digestive biscuits
Filling
200 grams full-fat soft cheese (such as cream cheese or neufchâtel), at room temperature
Carefully split the Easter egg into two halves. Melt the butter in the microwave in short bursts or in a small pan over a medium heat. In a food processor, blitz the biscuits to a fine crumb, add the melted butter and pulse a few times until the mixture is well combined.
LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
PUBLISHER
Jeff Lambert
ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER
CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION
Joe Lambert
Ethan Keattikul
Diana Lambert ADMINISTRATION
Teri Tinkler
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Josh Marlowe GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
MANAGING EDITOR
Felicia Edwards
MARKETING MANAGER
Noelle Lambert
Victoria Kokolakis
Stephan Schulze
PROOFREADING
Kerry Mastrobuoni
ACCOUNT
EXECUTIVES
Carol Link
Bob Liquorie
Nicole Sims
Kim Volz
Bonnie Schifano
Lucille Moran
Terry Rydyzynski
Noelle Lambert
Divide the mixture equally between the two halves of the Easter egg, and very gently press down, without breaking the shell.
Filling
In a large bowl, whisk the cheese, vanilla extract and icing sugar until smooth. Add the double cream and cocoa powder and whisk again until smooth and thickened. Divide the mixture evenly between the two Easter egg halves and smooth over as carefully as possible. Chill in the fridge for an hour or so until set.
Decoration
Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the two halves and decorate with some Easter chocolates and sprinkles.
Editor’s note: Icing sugar also is known as confectioner’s sugar or powdered sugar. In the United States and Canada, “double cream” may not be readily available. Double cream has a higher butterfat content and is primarily sold in the UK. If double cream is not available, try substituting with heavy cream with the highest fat content you can find, but note that the consistency of the finished product may be slightly different.
ANTIPASTO (Choose one)
• Traditional Antipasto Platter
• Mozzarella Caprese Platter
• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter
FIRST COURSE (Choose one half tray)
• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna
• Traditional Baked Ziti
• Penne alla Vodka
• Manicotti
• Stuffed Shells
VEGETABLE (Choose two quarter trays)
• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil
• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• String Bean Casserole
• String Bean Almondine
• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Candied Sweet Potatoes
DESSERT (Choose one)
• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl
• Homemade Apple Pie (10 inch)
• Imported Italian Colomba
ANTIPASTO (Choose one)
• Traditional Antipasto Platter
• Mozzarella Caprese Platter
• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter
SALAD (Choose one)
• Crispy Green Garden Salad
• Traditional Caesar Salad
• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Berries
Penne alla Vodka
DESSERT (Choose one)
• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl
• Fresh Baked Italian Cookie Tray (2 lbs.)
• Imported Italian Colomba
MAIN COURSE (Choose one)
• American Spring Leg of Lamb
• Black Angus Filet Mignon Roast
• All Natural Hormone Free Stuffed Pork Roast
• Boar’s Head Brown Sugar, Sweet Sliced Holiday Ham
*8-10lb. avg. All meat comes raw, must be cooked.
VEGETABLE (Choose two half trays)
• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil
• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• String Bean Casserole
• String Bean Almondine
• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Candied Sweet Potatoes
South Bay Combines Reading Initiative With March Madness
This school year, South Bay Elementary School in the West Babylon School District has implemented a new schoolwide reading initiative. Each month, every class throughout the building reads the same book together. The students then complete an activity related to the book. For the month of March, students read “The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors.” Throughout the school, classes held a rock, paper, scissors tournament in March Madness fashion. Using brackets, the competition went from 32 players, down to 16, then to the top eight and final four. The remaining four students in the rock, paper, scissors tournament competed at the end of month assembly. Pictured is Mr. Egan’s class. Photo courtesy of West Babylon School District
Babylon Cub Scouts Prepare To Become Boy Scouts
BABYLON CUB SCOUTS PREPARE TO BECOME BOY SCOUTS - Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Councilman Tony Martinez, Terence McSweeney, Duwayne Gregory, Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams, & village trustee Dominic Bensivenga were present at the Arrow of Light Ceremony for Babylon Cub Scout Pack 99. This event marks a significant achievement for Cub Scouts as they prepare to move up to Boy Scouts, with packs usually organizing a celebration for those reaching this level. Officials were present with a big congratulations to Babylon Scouts, Emmitt Ging, Andrew Margolis, Declan Melnick, Aiden Price, and Griffin Rodriguez!
Can you spot all the hidden objects in the room? Turn to the back cover to uncover potential dangers and learn how to spot what may be hidden in plain sight.
West Babylon Public Library
211 Route 109
West Babylon (631) 669-5445
www.wbpl.us
Nancy Evans, Director ***
MEDITERRANEAN
FAVORITES
Monday, April 21, 7-8:30 pm WBA610
Join Chef Naela for some tasty Mediterranean dishes.
MEDICAID ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE
Tuesday April 22, 10 am-1 pm
Sign up is first-come, firstserved and free of charge. For more information, call the Nassau Suffolk Hospital Council at 631435-3000.
CRICUT CRAFTING: MUGS
Friday, April 25, 11 am-1 pm WBA808
Learn how to design your own personalized coffee mug using our Makerspace Cricut machine. Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.
RUSTIC DRIED FLOWER DOOR HANG
Monday, April 28, 6:30-8:30 pm WBA138
Non-refundable/ transferable materials fee: $5.
UNSUNG HEROES OF BASEBALL
Tuesday, April 29, 7-8:30 pm WBA213
Learn about unsung heroes who hit historical home runs on and off the baseball diamond.
ZUMBA
Fridays: May 2-30 WBA415 10:15-11:15 am
Non-refundable fee for the 5-week May session: $10.
CORK GARDEN MARKERS
Fridays: May 2-30
Drop by the library anytime and check out our garden craft station.
YOGA
Wednesdays: May 7-28
WBA405 6 pm -7 pm
Non-refundable/ transferable fee for the 4-week May session: $8.
FLOWERS FOR MOM
Monday, May 5, 7-8 pm
WBA140
Join florist Irene at the Library and create a beautiful floral arrangement. Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.
ENGLISH: BEGINNERS Tuesdays, May 6 WBA200 6:15-7:15 pm
Join us for this monthly class to help enhance your English language skills.
PAINT NIGHT: LOVEBIRD SPRING MOON
Tuesday, May 6, 6:45-8:30 pm WBA141
Non-refundable/ transferable materials fee: $5.
YOGA
Wednesdays: May 7-28
WBA405 6-7 pm
Non-refundable/ transferable fee for the 4-week May session: $8.
CARING
FOR WILDLIFE
Thursday, May 8, 7-8 pm
WBA218
Sweetbriar Nature Center is a wildlife rehabilitation facility that takes care of injured, sick, and orphaned animals. Participants will meet some of their resident, non-releasable animals to find out their stories and get information on what to do if you find an animal that might need help.
DRAGONFLY VASE KIT
May 8-13 WBA142
A YouTube Link will be provided by the Library. Non-refundable/ transferable materials fee: $5.
BUSY PERSON’S BOOK GROUP
7-8:30 pm WBA10
Thursday, May 8 – How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley
North Babylon High School
Class Of 1985
A 40th reunion is planned for July, 19, 2025, at Captain Bill’s in Bay Shore. Visit our Facebook group “NBHS Class of ’85” or email pmiller1767@ gmail.com for invitation and other reunion events.
Babylon Schools Select New Director Of Special Education
The Babylon Union Free School District has appointed Daria Hagemeyer as its new Director of Special Education. Ms. Hagemeyer previously served as the assistant director of special Education at the Riverhead Central School District. She succeeds Dr. Angela Austin, who has been serving as acting director of special education on a temporary basis for the 2024-2025 school year.
Bringing more than 20 years of experience in special education, Daria Hagemeyer has a strong background in program development, student services, and staff support. At Riverhead, she supervised and coordinated the delivery of special education services, developed districtwide policies, and facilitated professional development for educators. Her previous roles as a special education facilitator, teacher, and mentor have focused on fostering inclusive learning environments and ensuring students receive the individualized support they need to succeed.
Ms. Hagemeyer holds certifications in students with disabilities, social studies, literacy, and school district leadership. She has also been actively involved in professional development initiatives, including culturally responsive classrooms, restorative justice practices, and special education compliance.
“We are excited to welcome Ms. Hagemeyer to the Babylon School District,” said Superintendent of Schools Carisa Manza. “During our search for a new Director of Special Education, it quickly became clear that Ms. Hagemeyer’s dedication to studentcentered learning and extensive experience in the field will make her a valuable addition to our leadership team.”
Daria Hagemeyer will officially assume her new role this July.
Photo courtesy of the Babylon Union Free School District
Tooker Avenue Elementary School in the West Babylon School District recently had a display of first and second grade artwork in the West Babylon Public Library. The artwork was displayed in the children’s area as part of a collaboration between the West Babylon
Tooker Artists On Display At Public Library
art department and public library to help promote the arts in schools and the community.
Under the direction of art teacher Hanna Benardos, students worked diligently to create artwork to be proudly displayed. Expanding on their color theory
knowledge, Ms. Benardos’ first grade art classes used oil pastels to create vibrant Kandinsky-inspired circles, experimenting with primary, secondary, warm and cool colors. First graders also created Andy Warhol flower vases. Taking inspiration from the artist’s pop art
style, students designed colorful mixed-media collages of flower vases. They explored form and learned about layering, using color application to bring their bouquets to life.
In second grade classes, students created Jim Dine heart collages. They painted
abstract backgrounds and layered heart cutouts while exploring proportion, balance, and color to express emotion through composition. Additionally, second grade artists created Wayne Thiebaud complementary cakes. Focusing on complementary
colors and form, students sketched and painted tiered cakes using cylinders as a foundation. They carefully selected and applied colors to highlight contrast and color inspired by the style of Thiebaud.
Tooker Avenue Elementary School in the West Babylon School District recently had a display of first and second grade artwork in the West Babylon Public Library. Photo courtesy of West Babylon School District
New York Senate Votes To Unleash Stronger Animal Protections
The New York State Senate has passed a package of legislation to strengthen protections for the well-being of animals. Included were Senate Bills S197 and S252, sponsored by State Senator Monica R. Martinez, that give judges the discretion to order consecutive sentences when an individual is convicted of multiple counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and expands the definitions of wild and exotic animals to ensure these creatures will be protected from being imported, sold, or owned.
S197, also known as Tucker’s Law, was originally introduced in 2020 following the arrest of a Long Island man for the beating deaths of two
dogs and the injury of a third. The legislation was crafted in response to a limitation in state law that restricts a charge of aggravated cruelty to a definite sentence not exceeding two years in prison. The bill addresses this by granting judges discretion to impose consecutive sentences when an individual is convicted of multiple counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. Currently, the law caps sentences at up to two years, even for the most egregious acts.
S252 was filed in response to a Hauppauge pet store found to be selling various exotic animals. The shop also allegedly allowed visitors to purchase 30-minute sessions to pet, feed and
interact with wild and exotic animals, including sloths and kangaroos. Under current law, selling or keeping these types of animals is not prohibited, but the shop was closed last year following court orders for alleged town code violations.
“Today’s vote is a reminder that humanity’s laws have not always kept pace with the cruelty some individuals inflict on animals. The package of bills passed, including expansions of ‘Tucker’s Law’ and the ban on exotic animal sales, raises our standard of accountability toward our fellow beings. These proposals reflect our deeply held belief that compassion is a virtue that must be reflected in both our values and
our laws. As cruelty to animals is often a precursor to future abuse against humans, this legislation not only protects animals but also affirms our commitment to ensuring both are treated with dignity and respect.”
In addition to the proposals passed as part of this package, Sen. Martinez is sponsoring the following animal protection bills under consideration this legislative session:
• S673 – Housing People and Animals Together Grant Program: This bill creates a grant program to fund shelters and organizations that provide emergency housing and domestic
violence shelters for both people and their companion animals, ensuring that no one has to choose between housing and their pet.
• S896 – Comprehensive Emergency Management Planning for Pets: This bill requires New York’s emergency management plans to include provisions for animals, ensuring pets are not left behind during disasters and shelters, rescue operations, and veterinary care are accounted for.
• S1741 – Strengthening Penalties for Animal Abandonment: This bill increases the minimum penalty for abandoning an animal, ensuring
that those who leave pets behind face fines of at least $500.
• S1742 – Increasing Penalties for Inadequate Shelter for Dogs: This bill strengthens penalties for failing to provide proper shelter for dogs left outside in extreme weather, ensuring that neglect is met with consequences.
• S1743 – Granting SPCA Officers the Authority to Enforce Animal Cruelty Laws: This bill grants SPCA peace officers the same authority as police officers to issue appearance tickets, summons, or arrests for violations of animal cruelty laws.
Legislator Kevin McCaffrey Recognizes Judy Skillen As Woman Of Distinction
On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Suffolk County Legislature gathered for the annual Women of Distinction Recognition Ceremony. Presiding Officer McCaffrey was proud to recognize Judy Skillen as the Woman of Distinction for Legislative District 14!
Each year, the Suffolk County Legislature partners with the Suffolk County Office of Women’s Services and the Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission to recognize outstanding women dedicated to community service. In doing so, each Legislator has the opportunity to name a “Woman of Distinction” from their legislative district to be recognized at a General Meeting in accordance with Resolution 786–2002.
Serving as Legislator McCaffrey’s Woman of Distinction from the 14th Legislative District was Judy
Skillen of Babylon Village. Judy is a lifelong resident of Babylon Village and known throughout the community as a person who facilitates positive change through volunteerism. Judy Skillen serves as President of the Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society and has worked to establish the Society as a modern steward of Babylon’s history.
Judy has also held positions on the Babylon Village Architectural Review Board, Downtown Revitalization Projects, Babylon Beautification Society, Babylon Village Historical Society and the Pilot Club of Babylonwhere as a former president she chaired the Start School Right Program. She has been instrumental in bringing countless projects to fruition such as the Robert Moses Statue, the Annual Argyle Country Fair, the Village Fountain Restoration,
County Officials Present Woman of Distinction Award to Judy Skillen” - From Left to Right: Twila Silverman, Chairperson, S.C. Women’s Advisory Commission; Stacey Caggiano, Director, Office of Women’s Services; Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey; Woman of Distinction Judy Skillen; and County Executive Ed Romaine.
the Bayman Statue, and has served on various community committees such as the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Remembrance, the Town of Babylon 150th Anniversary Celebration, the dedication and restoration
First Presbyterian Church of Babylon, Judy Skillen also serves there as a Deacon and Elder.
Outside Babylon, Judy Skillen is a retired Special Education teacher and administrator, having served the West Babylon School District for thirty-five years. She was awarded lifetime membership in the National PTA for her service and commitment to the field of education and has been inducted into the West Babylon Alumni Foundation Hall of Fame.
of the Ralph Scordino Falls, and the Annual Village of Babylon Tree Lighting and Wassail Bowl!
For her efforts, Judy Skillen has received the Nathaniel Conklin Award, was named a New York
State Woman of Distinction in 2008, received the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Babylon Rotary Club, and was named Grand Marshal of the Village’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade!
A lifelong member of the
Said Legislator McCaffrey: “I have worked alongside Judy in a number of capacities since I became the Suffolk County Legislator representing the Village of Babylon. Her drive to serve her community is paramount, and her efforts to promote a historically conscious revitalization of the Village are deserving of tremendous gratitude.”
Application Open For Fall 2025 Hope For The Warriors
Now, through April 30, applications are being accepted for the fall 2025 semester for the Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship Program. Since 2006, Hope For The Warriors has awarded Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships twice a year. The nationwide program recognizes and rewards post-9/11 spouses and caregivers for their strength, fidelity and resolve despite adversity as
they assume critical roles in the financial well-being of their families.
Scholarships vary from $1,800 to $2,500 and are applied toward higher education at an accredited U.S. university, college, or trade school. Unique to the program is a scholarship for spouses of the fallen, Restoring Family.
• Honorary Scholarship – awarded to those seeking graduate or post-graduate degree.
• New Beginnings Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing an associate degree, entry level classes or training.
• Restoring Family Scholarship – awarded to spouses of the fallen.
• Restoring Hope Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing a master’s or doctorate of social work, psychology counseling, or mental health counseling-
related field.
• Restoring Self Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Since the program’s inception, Hope For The Warriors has granted 290 Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships totaling $737,107.
To receive an application to apply for the fall 2025 semester, visit hopeforthewarriors.org and connect to services.
About Hope For The Warriors: Founded in 2006, Hope For The Warriors is a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a foundation of stability, strength and community for post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families. Since its inception, Hope For The Warriors has served over 171,000 service members, veterans, military spouses, and caregivers through 10 programs/services focused on providing financial,
career and educational stability; physical and emotional strength; and social support that builds community. This includes The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Hope For The Warriors providing confidential, high-quality mental health care services. For more information, visit hopeforthewarriors.org, Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn.
Fax resume to: (631) 6613248
GET YOUR AD NOTICED! Ca ll Our Classifi ed Dept. 631-226-2636 Ext. 276
BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?
Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276
and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?
Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276 CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS! Call today! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646
Masonr y Masonr y ALL MASONRY WORK AND BLACKTOP DRIVEW AYS APRONS ASPHALT, WALKWAYS, POOL PATIOS BELGIAN BLOCKS, NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS PC FENCE REPAIR & INSTALLATION O-ROD LANDS CA PING
631-294-0277
COMPLETE MASONR Y SERVICES
CA MBRIDG E PATIO 20' X 20' $5900
• CAMBRIDGE PAVERS.
• BLACKTOP DRIVEWAYS,
• CHIMNEY REPAIRS,
• PATIOS,
• NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS, PVC FENCES, FREE ESTIMATES
Pavers, Patios, Drivew ays, Stoops, Cultured Stone Pool Areas, Etc! Free Estimates. Reasonabl e Prices & Reliable! Lic ensed & Insure d Lic. #59023-H References Avail
Tips To Overcome Seasonal Allergies
Spring and summer are typically welcomed with open arms. Warm weather, blooming flowers and trees full of leaves are a welcome sight for many, but seasonal allergy sufferers may find the transition from winter to spring a little more challenging.
The Center for Health Statistics found that just under 26 percent of adults and roughly 19 percent of children have a seasonal allergy. Treatments for seasonal allergies can be effective, and many people find over-the-counter medications are enough to alleviate their symptoms. But even people who take OTC medications daily may have days when seasonal allergies cause considerable discomfort. In such situations, allergy sufferers can consider these strategies.
• Identify your triggers. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology notes that pollen is the most common outside allergy trigger. Trees and grasses typically pollinate in spring and summer, which is why these seasons can be especially challenging for people with seasonal allergies. Dustmites and pets might trigger allergies indoors, but these can appear throughout the year. A visit to an allergist can determine what exactly triggers seasonal allergies. For example, certain types of grasses and trees might be triggers for some but not others. Identifying triggers is an effective first step because it can compel people to avoid the things that cause allergic reactions.
• Stay indoors on dry, windy days. The Mayo Clinic advises
seasonal allergy sufferers to stay indoors on dry, windy days, when pollen can be nearly impossible to avoid.
• Take advantage of a good rain. The Mayo Clinic advises that the best time for seasonal allergy sufferers to be outside is after a good rain. Rain helps to clear pollen from the air, so post-rain conditions can be ideal for people with seasonal allergies.
• Change your clothes and wash up upon coming inside. The ACAAI recommends changing clothes, washing them and taking a shower upon coming inside during allergy season. Washing clothes and taking a shower reduces the likelihood that you’ll spread pollen around the interior of your home, where it can attach to furniture and trigger allergic reactions.
• Monitor the pollen count. As noted, pollen is a seasonal allergy trigger, so allergy sufferers are urged to monitor the pollen count via a website such as Pollen.com, where visitors can type in their ZIP code and get an up-to-date allergy report. On days when the pollen count is high, stay indoors and keep windows closed so the pollen does not get inside. The Mayo Clinic notes that pollen counts tend to be highest in morning, so it’s best to avoid being outside during this time of day. Seasonal allergies can make spring and summer more challenging. A few simple strategies can help people control their seasonal allergies even on days when pollen counts are particularly high.
Easter Egg Coloring Tips
Coloring Easter eggs is a time-honored tradition dating back more than 2,500 years. There is evidence that people living in the ancient settlement of Trypillia dyed eggs. Ancient Persians also were believed to paint eggs for Nowruz (Persian New Year).
Christians adopted similar traditions to symbolize aspects of the Easter story. Originally Christians dyed eggs red to represent the blood of Jesus Christ that was shed on the cross, according to Chase Oaks Church. Good Housekeeping reports early Christian
missionaries adapted the dying tradition to include more egg colors to represent different aspects of the Easter story. Yellow represented the resurrection, blue represented love and red remained a symbol of Christ’s blood. Whether families dye eggs to symbolize the Easter miracle or simply for fun, the following are some coloring tips to enhance the process.
1. Prevent cracked eggs. Most colored eggs are hard-boiled. To prevent cracking during the boiling process, add a teaspoon of vinegar and a tablespoon of
salt to the boiling water. Additional anticracking measures include rubbing half a lemon on each shell before boiling.
2. Boil eggs and cool completely. It takes roughly 10 minutes to hard-boil an egg. Fill a pot with enough water to submerge the eggs, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Gently lower the eggs into the water with a slotted spoon. Cover, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Drain the eggs and cool in a bowl of water or run under cold tap water.
3. Don’t forget the vinegar. Whether you use colored dye tablets or drops of food coloring from the pantry, use a mix of water and vinegar in the coloring solution. According to Education.com, food coloring is an acid dye and bonds using hydrogen. This chemical process only works in an acidic environment. Vinegar is added to water to make it more acidic and help the dyes adhere more strongly to the eggs and produce brighter colors.
4. Stick to white eggs. Stores sell both brown and white eggs. The species of chicken determines whether the eggs will be white or brown. When coloring eggs, it might be better to purchase white eggs, as the dyes will show up more vividly on the white shells.
5. Create distinctive designs. By covering portions of the bare eggs before dipping into color, people can create unique designs. Things like masking tape, rubber bands, wax (or crayons), and even twine can be
used. The dye will only take on the uncovered areas, leaving white behind.
6. Dyes are not the only way to color eggs. Everything from watercolor paint to acrylics to decoupage can be used to cover eggs in vivid colors. Egg decorators also can use colored yarns, fabric or stickers. Search for creative materials to set Easter eggs apart this year. Coloring eggs is a popular Easter tradition, and there are many ways to ensure this beloved activity produces beautiful results.
