At a recent town board meeting, officials recognized Babylon resident and distinguished NYPD officer Robert Garvey from the 17th precinct. Confronted with an armed suspect known for his criminal history, Officer Garvey prioritized the safety of others, demonstrating remarkable bravery in a perilous situation. In recognition of his valor, Councilman McSweeney, Supervisor Schaffer, and the entire town board awarded Officer Garvey the Town of Babylon’s Heroism Award.
We’re proud to welcome Bhuvanesh Singh, MD, PhD as Surgical Director of Northwell’s Cancer Institute Skin Cancer Program.
Dr. Singh joins Northwell to deliver exceptional care as a renowned head and neck surgeon specializing in skin cancer. He’s now practicing at a new location in Islandia and is seeing new patients.
We’re raising health with more skin cancer experts working together for you.
• Chicken Parm
• Sausage and Peppers
• Spinach and Mozzarella
• Eggplant
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Town Officials Honor NYPD Hero
At a recent town board meeting, officials recognized Babylon resident and distinguished NYPD officer Robert Garvey from the 17th precinct. On November 18, 2024, Officer Garvey exhibited exceptional courage by apprehending Ramon Rivera, who had perpetrated violent attacks resulting in three fatalities. Confronted with an armed suspect known for his criminal history, Officer Garvey prioritized the safety
of others, demonstrating remarkable bravery in a perilous situation.
Councilman Terence McSweeney, who chairs the town’s public safety department, presented the award to Officer
Garvey, emphasizing the dire implications of society without our hero 1st responders like Officer Garvey. He noted that despite radio alerts indicating Rivera’s status as an armed and dangerous
repeat offender, Officer Garvey, like his fellow officers, bravely engaged in a high-risk scenario, relying on his training to secure the suspect. In recognition of his valor, Councilman McSweeney, Supervisor
Schaffer, and the entire town board awarded Officer Garvey the Town of Babylon’s Heroism Award. Supervisor Schaffer expressed gratitude and encouraged him to maintain his vigilance in service.
Lindenhurst & Babylon Village Mayors Share Ideas
Lindenhurst Village
Mayor Michael Lavorata and Babylon Village
Mayor Mary Adams often share ideas, and discuss their visions for the communities they represent.
Mayor Michael Lavorata said, “Village Mayors are more closely connected to one another than their
residents may realize. We, local government officials, have to work together and share ideas for the greater good for our residents.”
LINDENHURST & BABYLON VILLAGE MAYORS SHARE IDEAS - Pictured here (left to right) are: Lindenhurst Mayor Michael Lavorata, Babylon Mayor Mary Adams, and Lindenhurst Trustee Maryann Weckerle.
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FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS
FRI. FEB. 21st
5:30PM
A DRAGON-SIZED
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
This special family evening is packed with fun dragon-inspired activities and a screening of the heartwarming movie How to Train Your Dragon. Cradle of Aviation Museum ~ Charles Lindbergh Blvd. ~ Garden City. For more information: General 516-5724111 ~ Reservations 516-5724066
6:30PM
TRIVIA NIGHT
N. Babylon Lions Club Trivia Night at North Babylon A. Tatti Youth Center, 213 Phelphs Lane in N. Babylon. $35pp includes Prizes, pizza, salad. Raffles and 50/50. RSVP by 2/10 to Diane @ 6315530217 or Judy @ 631-7453007
SAT. FEB. 22nd
10:00AM-11:00AM
WILDLIFE WONDERS: FUN WITH FEATHERS
Sweetbriar’s experienced educators help open up the wonders of the natural world for children, through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
SUN. FEB. 23rd
1:00-4:00pm AN AFTERNOON WITH ELVIS
HOLIDAYS
2nd - Groundhog Day 14th - Valentine's Day 17th - Presidents' 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
Long Island Society of Italian Americans, (LISIA) is having an Afternoon With Elvis at The Malverne American Legion, 240 Franklin Ave, Post 44. $30.00 pp, includes admission, show, coffee and cake and a cash bar. Bring your own snacks, max 10 to a table. Call Diane Langella @ 516777-0607 for reservations.
1:00-6:00pm TAKEOUT PASTA MEATBALL & SAUSAGE DINNER
Babylon Lions Club, Pick-up at Cafe 11 Villaggio, 35 Deer Park Avenue, Babylon Village. All proceeds go to charity. $35 Per Order - Take Out Only. Pre-orders can be placed beginning at 11:00 am for more information, please call 631-422-7037
TUES. FEB. 25th
1:00PM
CARNEVALE CELEBRATION
The Italian Cultural Society of Farmingdale cordially invites you to join them at their February Carnevale celebration. Entertainment and light refreshments. Costumes and/ or masks are encouraged for all attendees. Come join the fun! Allen Park Meeting Room, Motor Avenue in Farmingdale. For more information, please contact ICSF Co-President Aggie Vitale agvit@ aol.com
4:00PM-5:00PM
TEEN LIVING WITH WILDLIFE
The Wildlife Center of Long Island is coming to the Babylon Library!
Meet some of their Ambassador reptiles, mammals, and birds that call Long Island home and explore their role in our local ecosystem. Discover why these animals are at the Wildlife Hospital and how you can help others like them. Earn one hour of community service for attending! Grades 6-12. Registration required.24 S. Carll Ave. in Babylon,. For more information, please call Erin White 63-669-1624
6:30PM BABY SHOWER
The Kiwanis Club of Copiague is having a Baby Shower and will be collecting new clothing, diapers, blankets and many other items a baby needs. Items will be donated to Madonna Heights. Please drop off donations at Red Lobster 801 Sunrise Hwy in Copiague on Tuesday, Feb. 25th. For more information, please contact Lori Prisco 631-495-8755, or Christine Madrazo 631-559-1079
NOW THROUGH FEB. 26th
10:00AM-5:00PM NY FINE ARTS SOCIETY EXHIBITION
1 Flowerfield, Suite 15, St. James. Paintings and prints 18th century to today, Goya, Kollwitz, Dali, PIcasso, Modigliani, and much more, Childen's art WORKSHOP. Admission goes to support the NEW YORK FINE ARTS SOCIETY. For more information, please call Yuka at 631-880-1719
Recipe Of The Week: Semolina and Almond Biscotti
Cookiesare a treat any time of the day, and many find biscotti particularly appealing. These crunchy cookies are equally at home with a morning cup of coffee as they are with an evening mug of hot cocoa. Biscotti are hard, crunchy, Italian cookies that are baked twice. In fact, their name comes from the Latin “bis,” meaning “twice,” and “coctus,” meaning “cooked.” Although they can be enjoyed on their own, their dry, crunchy nature makes them hold up well when dunked into a beverage. Biscotti were even once commonly dipped into red wine. Though they might seem complicated, biscotti generally are easy to make. Try this recipe for “Semolina and Almond Biscotti” from “Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy” (Sourcebooks) by Danielle Kartes.
Yields 12 to 16 cookies
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup semolina flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Optional: 10 ounces dark chocolate to melt for dipping
Directions: Preheat oven to 325 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, cream the sugar, butter and eggs until light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and salt. Mix to incorporate. Add the all-purpose flour, almonds, semolina flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix.
Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Pat gently to form one long loaf of dough roughly 14 to 16 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide. Bake 30 minutes.
Remove the loaf from the oven and allow to cool 5 to 6 minutes before using a long knife to cut the loaf gently into 12 to 16 cookies.
Lay each cookie on its side and bake another 20 minutes, flipping the cookies midway through.
Cool completely to achieve that signature crunch. The centers will be a bit soft if eaten warm. These are perfect for dunking in coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
Optional: Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts and gently dip half of each biscotti into it lengthwise. Flip the biscotti chocolate-side-up onto a sheet tray and allow the chocolate to set.
WORDS
The Long Island Pet Expo Returns March 1-2, 2025
Popular Pet Showcase Features Entertainment, Education &
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 1-2, 2025, with fur flying entertainment, dog sporting competitions and educational programs designed for the whole family. The event returns to Suffolk County Community College Grant Campus in the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena and features many special attractions, pet adoptions and outstanding shopping for pet lovers and their pets.
“The Long Island area is passionate about animals and pets of all kinds,” said show co-producer Karen Garetano of Family Pet Shows, which runs several similar events in the northeast.
The 100+ special exhibits always feature some of the hottest new products coming out often before they hit the retail shelves. Pets on leashes are always welcome, and several area rescue groups with adoptable pets will be on hand. Popular performers and presenters include Gail Mirabella and the Dynamo Dogs, Diana Frohman and her Beautiful Dancing Dogs, Schutzhund Demonstration by Maximum K9 Service, Zenos Dog Run Lure Course, Rainforest Reptiles Shows, TICA Championship Cat Shows, Rabbit Hopping, Parties by Parrots and more
“We always have fun at these events, but we also are strong supporters of responsible pet ownership and humane values when it comes to all issues involving animals and
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Jeff Lambert
ASSISTANT
Joe Lambert
Ethan Keattikul
Diana Lambert ADMINISTRATION
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pets,” said Garetano.
“We partner with several community organizations, shelters, veterinarians and other animal lovers educate and inform when it comes to best practices for training, feeding and all aspects of pet care.”
Community and rescue organizations will be participating in the show where attendees can learn about pet adoptions as well as responsible ownership and care.
The event is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees over the weekend. Adult admission is $20, Kids 4-11 are $6, and those three years old and under are always free. Saturday March 2nd the hours are 10 am to 7 pm, and on Sunday, March 3rd, from 10 am to 5pm. For discount tickets and additional information, visit www. familypetshows.com.
Carol Link
Bob Liquorie
Nicole Sims
Kim Volz
Bonnie Schifano
Lucille Moran
Terry Rydyzynski
Noelle Lambert
Victoria Kokolakis
Stephan Schulze
Kerry Mastrobuoni
BACCA Awarded $40,000 By The New York State Council On The Arts
The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA) announced today a grant award totaling $40,000 from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) to support the nonprofit arts and culture sector.
Through New York State’s continued investment in arts and culture, NYSCA has awarded $82 million this year to 509 artists and 1,497 organizations across the state.
“As the unparalleled leader of arts and culture, New York’s creativity and innovation inspires the world,” Governor Hochul said. “Our continued
investment in our dynamic creative sector will further boost tourism, strengthen our local economies and continue New York’s success as a rich and vibrant place to live, work and visit.”
Executive Director of NYSCA Erika Mallin said, “On behalf of the Council and staff, I am so proud that we are supporting the critical work of so many nonprofit organizations all across the state, including work of BACCA. New York State’s art and culture nonprofits make us a global leader, strengthening our connections to each other and the larger world. I thank
you for your dedication and service and look forward to all your work in the coming year.”
“Thank you to the New York State Council on the Arts for their continuing support of the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA). The 2025 NYSCA grant will enable BACCA to continue its mission to support and promote art and cultural activities throughout the township of Babylon during the coming year,” stated BACCA Board President Shawn Cullinane. About the New York State Council on the Arts
The mission of the New York State Council on the
Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award $162 million in FY2025, serving organizations and artists across all 10 of the state’s regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York’s creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources.
Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and
continued with the support of Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch.
For more information on NYSCA, please visit arts. ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page, on X @ NYSCArts and Instagram @ NYSCouncilontheArts.
About BACCA
The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA) is a not-for-profit cultural resource center for the arts serving the needs of residents, artists, and art organizations in the township of Babylon.
Incorporated in 1974,
BACCA is designed to sponsor and develop artistic, cultural, and educational programs or services.
The Board of Trustees has set goals to promote and encourage artists in their endeavors through consulting, promotion, technical assistance, and other resources. Our objective is to present cultural programs and opportunities for local artists to promote their craft.
For more information, please email the BACCA office at info@babylonarts. org.
New York State Parks On Long Island Celebrate Black History Month
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to announce Black History Month 2025 at your Long Island State Parks.
The month-long celebration highlights some of America’s notable African Americans and their accomplishments through informative posters and pictures. We invite you to visit us to learn more about these great Americans and their impact on American history and culture.
Displays throughout the month of February are at these Long Island State Park locations:
Hempstead Lake State Park Environmental Education and Resiliency Center, West Hempstead
Open daily 9am - 4pm, for information call 516-7661029
Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center-West End 2, Wantagh
Open daily 9am - 4:30pm, for information call 516-809-
Jones Beach State Park, Administration Building, Wantagh
Open daily 8:00am – 4:30pm, for information call 516785-1600
LI State Parks Regional Headquarters Lobby, West Babylon
Open Monday through Friday 10am – 4pm, for information call 631-321-3510
Planting Fields Arboretum Hoffman Conference Center, Oyster Bay
Open daily 10am – 4pm, for information call 516-9228600
Nissequogue River State Park – Charles & Helen Reichert Administration Building, Kings Park
Open daily 8am – 4pm, for more information call 631269-4927
Additional to displays, there will be special programs and workshops being offered through Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center and the Long Island State Parks Environmental Education Department. Please visit www.jonesbeachenc.org/programs and www.eventbrite. com/o/nys-parks-long-island-environmental-education33908178297 for information on program dates, times, locations, and how to sign up.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 80 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.
Santapogue’s Cultural Event Celebrates Unity
SANTAPOGUE’S CULTURAL EVENT CELEBRATES UNITY - On Jan. 24, Santapogue Elementary School in the West Babylon School District hosted a cultural celebration event. Organized by the school’s Parent-Teacher Association, the evening celebrated unity as students and their families displayed their many different cultures. Some of the countries represented included Ukraine, El Salvador, Guyana, Dominican Republic, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Trinidad and Puerto Rico. Families were excited and eager to share their food and drinks as well as show their clothing and family photographs. Attendees enjoyed learning about each other’s traditions, history, clothing and tasting delicious food. Photos courtesy of West Babylon School District
The month of February has been home to many historical events over the years. Here's a look at some that helped to shape the world in February 1925.
· After a severe depletion of his country's potato crop due to heavy rainfall the previous summer and fall, Irish President W.T. Cosgrave appeals to the United States for food aid on February 1.
· The small town of Nome, Alaska, is saved from a developing diphtheria epidemic on February 2 upon conclusion of The Serum Run. The run was a transport of diphtheria antitoxin via dog sled that involved 20 mushers and roughly 150 sled dogs. The final leg of the run is led by Gunnar Kaasen and his lead sled dog, Balto, who becomes a canine celebrity as a result of the undertaking.
· Sears, Roebuck, & Co. opens its first department store at its headquarters in Chicago on February 2. The retailer had previously been a catalog-only operation.
· William Burke Miller interviews trapped cave explorer Floyd Collins on February 3. Collins was trapped in a cave in Kentucky on January 30, and Miller was small enough to climb into an opening in the cave and conduct an interview while hanging upside down. Miller ultimately won a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the incident, which unfortunately ended with Collins' death on February 13.
· Ten people are arrested in Russia on February 5 as part of a plot to assassinate revolutionary and Soviet politician Grigory Zinoviev.
· World heavyweight boxing champion Jack Dempsey marries actress Estelle
Taylor on February 7 in San Diego. The two starred alongside one another on screen and on stage, but ultimately divorced in 1931.
· The film "The Lost World" premieres at the Astor Theatre in New York City on February 8. The film is the first production to include special effects.
· Turkish politician Halit Karsialan is shot by fellow politico Ali Çetinkaya during a fight at the Grand National Assembly of Turkey on February 9. Karsialan dies from injuries sustained during the skirmish on February 14.
· Ellen Wilkinson, an MP from the Labour Party, defies protocol when she addresses the British House of Commons without wearing a hat on February 11. Conservative MP Reginald Applin asks the Speaker of the House to determine if Wilkinson's non-compliance with the dress code was in order, but the speaker ultimately rules in Wilkinson's favor.
· Nikolai Golitsyn, the last Prime Minister of Imperial Russia, is arrested by the Russian secret police on February 12. Golitsyn, who was arrested on suspicion of association with counterrevolutionaries, is convicted and executed five months after his arrest.
· Paavo Nurmi runs a recordbreaking two-mile race in Madison Square Garden on February 14. The Finnish runner, nicknamed the "Flying Finn," completes the race in eight minutes and 58.2 seconds.
· On February 15, the London Zoo announces it will install lights to lift the spirits of the animals during the city's famed spells of fog.
· Bavaria lifts the ban on the Nazi Party on February
16. The ban was initially implemented after the Beer Hall Putsch, a failed coup d'état orchestrated by Adolf Hitler and others in 1923.
· The Mayflower Hotel opens its doors on February 18. The hotel, located at 1127 Connecticut Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., earns the nickname the "Hotel of Presidents" and remains open today.
· Fifty-one miners are killed in a coal mine explosion in Sullivan, Indiana, on February 20. An additional 70 employees escape or are rescued from the blast.
· American actor Gary Cooper appears in his first film on February 22. Cooper would go on to stardom, even though his appearance in "The Trail Rider" was as an uncredited stunt rider.
· The last emperor of China, Puyi, accepts an offer of protection from the Japanese Empire on February 23. Puyi had been stripped of all of his imperial titles and privileges months earlier.
· The first electrical recording of a phonographic record is made by Art Gillham on February 25. Gillham and his orchestra use microphones to perform "You May Be Lonesome" and "Hesitation Blues."
· Norwegian carpenter and inventor Thor Bjørklund receives a patent for the cheese slicer on February 27.
· A 6.2 magnitude earthquake strikes in the Canadian province of Quebec on February 28. The epicenter of the earthquake is in the St. Lawrence River near La Malbaie, and no major casualties are reported.
