South Bay's Neighbor
Spasso Holiday Catering of Lindenhurst
Fresh Mozzarella, Roasted Peppers, Artichoke Hearts & Grilled Chicken)
Pasta w/Tomato Sauce 45.00 70.00
Pasta w/Garlic & Oil 50.00 75.00
Pasta Alla Vodka 60.00 90.00 (Creamy Pink Sauce w/Grated Parmigiana Cheese)
Pasta Bolognese 60.00 90.00 (Pink Cream Meat Sauce)
Pasta Alfredo 60.00 90.00
Pasta Primavera 65.00 95.00 (Pink Cream Sauce w/Fresh Garden Vegetables)
Pasta Casalinga 80.00
(Peas, Prosciutto & Sundried Tomatoes In A Pink Cream Sauce)
Pasta w/Shrimp & Broccoli 85.00 115.00 (Baby Shrimp & Broccoli Sauteed In Garlic & Extra Virgin Olive Oil Served Over Pasta)
Pasta w/Chicken & Broccoli 65.00 95.00
Pasta w/Broccoli & Garlic 60.00 90.00
Pasta D’Estate 80.00 110.00 (Sun Dried Tomatoes & Roasted Peppers w/Mushrooms, Sliced Black Olives, Sauteed w/Garlic, Virgin Olive Oil & Artichokes)
Pasta Carciofi 80.00 110.00 (Sauteed Artichoke Hearts w/Garlic, Peas & Onions)
Pasta Guisseppi 65.00 95.00
(Chopped Broccoli, Zucchini, Sundried Tomatoes, Olives & Mushrooms Sauteed w/Garlic & Onions Then Topped With Mozzarella Cheese)
Choice Of Pasta: Rigatoni, Fettuccini, Penne, Linguine or Angel Hair
Town Of Babylon Planning & Building Department To Launch New Online Application System Through OpenGov In 2026
The Town of Babylon recently announced that its Planning and Building Department will transition to OpenGov, a modern online permitting and application platform designed to streamline how residents, contractors, and businesses submit and track applications. The new system—launching
in February 2026—will provide a more accessible, transparent, and userfriendly experience.
Beginning February 1, 2026, all building zoning, planning, rental, and accessory apartment applications must be submitted electronically through OpenGov. The online portal will
allow users to complete applications anytime, from anywhere, and follow each step of their review process in real time. The system will also accept online credit card payments.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Planning and Building Department, including zoning, rental and accessory apartment divisions, will pause accepting applications from January 28 through February 1, 2026 while the migration to OpenGov is finalized. During the
month of February, the zoning, planning, rental and accessory apartment review boards will not meet as staff completes onboarding and transitioning.
“This modernization is a major step forward for our residents, homeowners, and business community,” Supervisor Rich Schaffer said. “By bringing the Planning and Building Department onto OpenGov, we are making the application process more efficient, more
American Red Cross
(NAPSI)—The American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network is a secure, online community that’s both a resource directory and peer support network to military-affiliated caregivers. Using evidence-based peer-support programs, caregivers connect, share knowledge, learn new skills, and gain hope. More at redcross. org/caregivers.
transparent, and far more convenient. This upgrade ensures that Babylon continues providing responsive, 21st-century service to everyone who calls our town home.”
Detailed instructions and tutorials will be available to assist applicants in navigating the new system.
The Origins Of Christmas Stockings
The holiday season is rife with tradition. Some holiday traditions, such as holiday lighting displays, are easy to notice, while others are more subtle and possibly even unknown to many celebrants. One tradition that falls into the latter category involves the placing of oranges into Christmas stockings. The origins of Christmas stockings are rooted in legend and one of the more popular tales involves a widowed father
of three beautiful girls. According to Smithsonian. com, this father struggled to make ends meet and was concerned that his financial struggles would affect his daughters' ability to find a spouse. As the legend goes, St. Nicholas was wandering through the man's town and heard of his concerns.
Second Graders Score Big With NFL Letter-Writing Activity
Recognizing that the man was unlikely to accept charity, St. Nicholas slid down the chimney of his house and placed three gold balls in the girls' recently laundered stockings, which were hanging by the fire to dry. The value of the gold balls, which were discovered the following morning, was enough to ensure the girls could eventually wed. So what does that have to do with oranges? Those who wanted to replicate the tale could not so easily come upon gold balls to place in stockings, so they chose something similar in appearance: oranges.
Second grade students in Mr. Malinowski’s class at Deauville Gardens East Elementary School in the Copiague School District proudly display their letters as part of an engaging project that combines descriptive writing and real-world connections.
Photo courtesy of Copiague School District
Second graders in Mr. Malinowski’s class at Deauville Gardens East Elementary School in the Copiague School District have been hard at work practicing their letterwriting skills during recent literacy lessons. To begin, students wrote thoughtful letters to various faculty members, focusing on
using descriptive language and following proper letter format.
To deepen engagement, the class then took on an exciting challenge: writing to NFL teams. Each student selected a team and crafted a letter that included specific questions aimed at learning more about the team, its players and its geographical location. This activity not only strengthened their writing skills but also connected literacy to social studies as students explored cities and states across the country.
The project has sparked enthusiasm, curiosity and plenty of team spirit as students eagerly await potential replies.
LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
Students Help Set New Stacking Record
During their physical education classes, 440 students from Deauville Gardens East Elementary School in the Copiague School District participated in the global cup stacking challenge. Deauville Gardens East joined thousands of participants around the globe this year to break the world record for the “Most People Sport Stacking at Multiple
Locations.” This year, there were 784,036 stackers across 2,429 schools and organizations, breaking the previous record of 752,632 participants. Beyond helping make history, students also gained valuable skills. Sport stacking strengthens handeye coordination, bilateral coordination, focus, patterning and fine motor skills. It also promotes
teamwork, perseverance and confidence as students challenge themselves and cheer each other on. Copiague students were excited to contribute to this worldwide event, showing teamwork, focus and plenty of school spirit as they stacked their way into the record books.
Photo courtesy of Copiague School District
LEGAL NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS
Notice is hereby given taxpayers of the Town of Babylon, that the Undersigned ReceiverofTaxes has received the 2025/2026 Tax and Assessment Roll and Warrant.
She will accept payment for taxes at her office in the Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, N. Lindenhurst, N.Y. 11757 or by mail, beginning December 2025 daily between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Tax Office will be closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. First half taxes are due December 1, 2025 payable to January 12, 2026 without penalty.
After January 12, 2026 one percent per month will be added on the first half to June 1, 2026 after which date, additional interest wil be charged by the County Comptroller at his office at County Center, Riverhead, N.Y. 11901.
The Town of Babylon Tax Office will be accepting partial payments with penalty. We offer e-check and credit card payment through a telephone service or by the internet which includes American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover. For payments by telephone call 1-800-2PAY-TAX (1-800272-9829) or visit the web site at www.acipayonline.com. At the prompt, use Jurisdiction Code 4232. You must have your item number and tax amount available. Transaction fees will be charged to the taxpayer based on the amount of the total charge. Total amount Warrant to be collected by the Receiver of Taxes for the 2025/2026 tax year is $890,677,136.35.
Taxes become a lien December 1st of each year. at the same time. First and Second half payments may be made
JENNIFER MONTIGLIO RECEIVER OF TAXES
DATED AT BABYLON, N.Y.
December 1, 2025
2025/2026 TAX RATE ON $100 valuation - TOWN OF BABYLON
2025-2026
TOWN OF BABYLON
Jennifer Montiglio, Receiver of Taxes TAXABLE DISTRICTS
2025-2026
Powell Funeral Home, Inc.
155 Sunrise Highway Amityville, NY 11701
p: 631.842.2788
e: js@slingerhasgill.com • www.slingerhasgill.com
J. F. GOODE FUNERAL HOME
Dignified Service With Affordability
545 ALBANY AVENUE
AMITYVILLE, NY 11701
Phone: 631-842-6464 Fax: 631-842-6465
Goodefuneralhome@Hotmail.com www.goodefuneralhome.com 431356N121725
Copiague Memorial Public Library
50 Deauville Boulevard, Copiague, New York 11726 • Tel 631-691-1111 Fax 631-691-5098
Spread the Warmth with our Mitten Tree Donations accepted until December 29
Patrons can bring in new mittens, gloves, hats, scarves or socks and hang them on our Mitten Tree in the Children’s Room. The items will be donated to local organizations for distribution to children in need across our community.
Soup-er Bowl Drive Donations accepted until January 31
We will be collecting canned soups (any size) for those in need. All donations will be delivered to a local food pantry and will benefit individuals for the upcoming winter season.
Alzheimer and Dementia Caregiver Support Group
Wednesday, December 17
1:00 - 2:00 PM
Connect with other community members to share your experience with this tragic disease. For more information and to register, please call 1-800-272-3900. Registration is required.
Evening Book Discussion
Monday, December 29
7:00 - 8:30 PM
This program is held in person and via Zoom. The Griffin Sister’s Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner
Download a copy of this book from Libby or pick up a copy at the Circulation Desk. Registration is required.
VITA Tax Assistance
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provided by Bethpage Federal Credit Union will be
conducted virtually for the 2026 tax season. Services will be available to taxpayers who meet the necessary criteria by visiting lovebethpage. com/vita and completing the Bethpage Virtual VITA Application. The application will be available February 1 and space is limited. Appointments run from the beginning of February to the first week in April.
Early-Stage Dementia Support Groups
Tuesdays, January 6, 13, 20, 27 February 3, 10, 17, 24 March 3, 10 1:00 - 2:00 PM
This support group is for people in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease/ dementia and offers activities and discussions that will encourage social
engagement, disease education, and a supportive environment. A group for the caregivers will be held at the same time. For more information and to register, please call 1-800-272-3900. Registration is required.
Creative Writing Wednesdays, January 7, 14, 21, 28 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Start the new year writing your story! Become a better writer and unleash your creativity in this fun and supportive environment. Patricia Rossi will be back to teach this hands-on workshop for writers of all levels. Participants will be given creative writing prompts and share their work as they develop their skills. Registration is required.
Afternoon Book Discussion
Thursday, January 8
3:00 - 4:30 PM
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy
Download a copy of this book from Libby or pick up a copy at the Circulation Desk. Registration is required.
Long Island Sierra Club: Whales
Thursday, January 8
6:30 - 8:30 PM
Join marine mammal expert Artie Kopelman, President of the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island (CRESLI), for a fascinating journey into the world of whales! In this engaging and informative program, Mr. Kopelman will share his decades of research on whale populations off the coast of Long Island,
including captivating stories, stunning photographs, and insights into the behaviors, migrations, and conservation of these magnificent creatures. Registration is required.
Self-Care Jars and Journaling Workshop
Friday, January 9 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Self-Care Jars are a thoughtful way to cultivate moments of tranquility and self-reflection. These personalized jars contain small items that can uplift your mood and help you practice mindfulness. Presented by educators from YES Community Mental Health Promotion & Support. Registration is required.
Classifieds
Tennis Coaches (Syosset, NY)
THE power of CLASSIFIED!
press 276
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THE power of CLASSIFIED!
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?
Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276 Call The Classifi eds 631-226-2636 Pres s 276
THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how to get started? Call today and one of our experienced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let us at SOUTH BAY'S NEIGHBOR NEWS PAPE RS set up an adv ertising program for you. Y ou'll be glad you di d! Call 631-226-2636, ext. 276
TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you
CLASSIFIED GETS RESULTS! Call today! 631-226-2636 631-226-2646
HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?
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BUYING? SEL LING? RENT ING?
Place your ad in the Classi fieds 631 -2 26-2636 Ext. 27 6
Girl Scouts Of Suffolk County Host 2025 Holiday Lights Show
The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County (GSSC) will host its annual Holiday Light Show, which returns to Camp Edey in Bayport for an expanded, magical walk-through experience, Thursdays through Sundays through December 21, 2025. Camp Edey is located at 1500 Lakeview Ave., Bayport, NY 11705.
Launched more than 20 years ago, the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County Holiday Light Show has grown into a Long Island tradition — transforming the scenic grounds of Camp Edey into an “Enchanted Forest” of lights.
The highlight of the show will be “Girl Scout Way,” an area where the five winning creations from the 2025 Girl Scouts Holiday Light Design Contest will be on display. Each design was drawn by a Girl Scout and then custombuilt by the groundkeepers at Camp Edey in creations spanning six to twelve feet tall.
The 2025 Girl Scouts Holiday Light Design Contest winners are:
• Penelope Alambra, Smithtown, Troop 358, Brownie
• Amani Bradley-Coleman, Sienna Lebron, Teresa Cortez, Natalia Ciborowski, Kaylee Jimenez, Kiera GreenWilson, Maggie Ericson, Bomi Oyewo, Hanmi Oyewo, Lindenhurst, Troop 506, Multi-Level
• Ciara Weisbecker, Babylon, SU 14 (Juliette), Senior
• Olivia Castelli, Patchogue, Troop 1400, Cadette
• Sadie Ciesinski, Melville, Troop 103, Junior “This event is a beautiful example of how Girl Scouts combine imagination, leadership, and community spirit to shine light— literally and figuratively— on the holiday season,” said Tammy Severino, President & CEO of Girl Scouts of
Suffolk County. “We are proud to showcase these designs and give visitors a chance to see the girls’ ideas brought to life in lights.”
Among the special features at this year’s Holiday Lights Show:
• A new “Cozy Bungalow Package” with admission for up to five guests in a private winter-themed bungalow plus food vouchers, offered at a special rate. Themes include Nordic Nest (Scandinavian, rustic, snowy lodge), Holly Jolly Hut (traditional red and green Christmas décor), Gumdrop Cottage (candycolored fun straight from a storybook and gingerbread-inspired décor), and Starlight Shack (twinkle lights and a starry winter’s night with touches of snowflakes).
• The “Chill Zone” returns, with lawn games, fire-pit warmth, and hot-cocoa
treats courtesy of FirstClass Food Trucks.
• Visits with Santa Claus! The event is open to the public, and ticket prices start at $12.50. Tickets and
Cozy Bungalow reservations must be purchased in advance on the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County website: http://www.gssclightshow. org.
Every ticket purchased supports leadership programs, summer camp experiences, and financial assistance for girls throughout Suffolk County.
Photo of Light Design Contest Winner Olivia Castelli, Patchogue, with her design, and Tammy Severino, President & CEO, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, attached, credit Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. Photo courtesy of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County
JOANN CILLA
Licensed Real Estate Broker
203 E. Montauk Hwy.
Lindenhurst, NY 11757
Office: 631-539-6000
Cell: 516-429-1911
joann@joanncillarealestate.com www.joanncillarealestate.com
There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays
To our friends, neighbors, clients, and fellow business owners, Thank you for making Lindenhurst such a special place to live, work, and grow. This season may your homes be filled with warmth, your families with laughter, and your new year with endless possibilities and peace. It has been our honor to help so many of you open new doors in 2025. We look forward to continuing our journeys together in the coming year.
With our deepest appreciation and gratitude,
JoAnn, Meryl, Kendra, and Kamryn
Celebrate Christmas
“The
Faith Zone Church”
Thursday Morning, December 25th 11am
It’s time to Start a New Chapter in Life! Join us for Liftoff and go on a New Mission.
Buckle up as we look into the amazing story that has been told for over two thousand years. On that first Christmas night, God sent His own Son to earth in the form of a baby, to offer us the gift of eternal life and a relationship with Him. It truly was a holy night and the great news is that God is still with us today and has great plans for us to fulfill and enjoy. Blast off with us and take a leap of faith and begin to see the miraculous working in your life!
Mission Possible
