NYS Comptroller’s Report Shows Babylon IDA Driving Economic Growth And Job Creation
Babylon IDA Projects Deliver $1.8 Billion In Value And Over 6,000 New Jobs
The Babylon Industrial Development Agency (Babylon IDA) remains a significant driver of job creation and economic development, as highlighted in the latest Performance Report on Industrial Development Agencies released by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. The 2025 report, which reflects data from fiscal year 2023, indicates that the Babylon IDA managed 171 active projects with a total value of approximately $1.88 billion. These initiatives are anticipated to create 6,123 new jobs and contribute to a net gain of 6,093 full-time equivalent positions in the Town of Babylon.
“This year’s report affirms the Babylon IDA’s commitment to generating real results--new jobs, stronger businesses, and a thriving tax base,” said Tom Dolan, CEO of the Babylon IDA. “We’re proud to see our strategic investments creating measurable and lasting economic benefits for the Town of Babylon.”
The report reveals that projects supported by the Babylon IDA have increased the number of full-time equivalent jobs from 7,674 before the agency’s involvement to 13,767 in
2023. This achievement includes the retention of 5,093 jobs and the creation of thousands more. These results showcase the Babylon IDA’s consistent success in fostering sustainable employment growth and enhancing the town’s long-term tax base.
The 171 projects supported by the agency delivered $24.45 million across the community through Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTs) last year—revenue made in place of traditional taxes that helps fund schools, roads, and other essential public services. These contributions reflect the agency’s approach to economic development: using targeted incentives to attract investment while ensuring that the community sees ongoing benefits in return.
On a statewide level, the report indicates that New York’s 4,260 active Industrial Development Agency (IDA) supported projects had a cumulative value of $135 billion in 2023, marking a $3 billion increase from the previous year. These projects are projected to generate over 212,000 new jobs and retain more than 228,000 existing positions. Total reported tax exemptions
approached $2.1 billion, with $1.7 billion attributable to property tax exemptions. Additionally, $869 million was collected in PILOTs, resulting in approximately $1.2 billion in net tax exemptions. Downstate regions, including Long Island, accounted for a significant portion of this economic activity.
“Our success is the result of local businesses, community leaders, and government partners working together to make the Town of Babylon as resilient and vibrant as possible, and our collaboration is a key part of making that happen,” added Dolan.
The Babylon IDA plays a pivotal role in fostering this growth by supporting projects that create permanent jobs and offer temporary employment opportunities during construction and development. The agency is dedicated to collaborating with local businesses and stakeholders to ensure longterm economic benefits for residents throughout the Town of Babylon.
For more information about the Babylon Industrial Development Agency and its current projects, please visit https://babylonida.org/.
New York Blood Center Issues Urgent Call For Donors As Blood Supply Drops 20% Ahead Of Trauma Season
New York Blood Center (NYBC) has issued an urgent call for blood donations, especially from those with types O+ and O- blood. The current supply of Oblood, the universal blood type used in emergencies, has dropped to a critically low two-day level, and overall collections are nearly 20% below hospital demand. NYBC expects to collect only about 6,500 donations this week, falling approximately 1,600
donations short of what is needed to maintain a safe and stable blood supply in New York.
Spring travel, school breaks, and packed calendars have kept regular donors away—leaving donation levels dangerously low at a time when they should be ramping up. Each year, more than 56,000 traumas are reported in New York State, most occurring between May and September when accidents,
car crashes, and violent injuries rise dramatically. Blood transfusions are often needed to treat traumas, and a spike in traumatic accidents can cause a strain on the blood supply.
Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types,
both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.
“Spring can be an exciting season with warmer weather on the way and fun holiday celebrations, but it’s also a critical time of year for the blood supply,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior
Vice President
at New York Blood Center.
“As we start to build our inventory ahead of the
trauma-heavy summer season, the need is more urgent than ever. We’re calling on our community, especially type O donors, to roll up their sleeves and make a donation today. Your blood donation could be the lifeline that ensures our hospitals are ready to face any emergency that comes their way.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900. To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-9332566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still make a lifesaving impact by supporting NYBC’s mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time.
Construction site of The Wel in Lindenhurst
RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Vegan Blueberry Lemon Cornmeal Cobbler
Blueberries are out in full force when the weather warms. Blueberries are delicious freshly picked, and can be topped with some light cream for a refreshing dessert. Blueberries also are equally at home baked in muffins, breads and cobblers. The following recipe for “Blueberry Lemon Cornmeal Cobbler” courtesy of “Vegan Cooking for Beginners!” with recipes curated by Publications International, Ltd., pairs the tang of lemon with the sweetness of blueberry for the perfect treat. It’s great for dessert or even served for brunch.
Makes 8 to 10 servings
3 tablespoons boiling water 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
5 cups fresh blueberries
1⁄2 cup plus 1⁄3 cup sugar, divided 3 tablespoons lemon juice, divided 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 1⁄2 tablespoons finely grated lemon peel, divided 1⁄2 cup plain unsweetened soymilk or almond milk
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Combine boiling water and flaxseed in small bowl. Let stand until cool.
2. Combine blueberries, 1⁄3 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, cornstarch, and 1⁄2 tablespoon lemon peel in large bowl; toss to coat. Spoon into prepared pan.
3. Combine soymilk and remaining 2
2⁄3 cup all-purpose flour 1⁄4 cup fine-ground cornmeal
1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 1⁄4 cup coconut oil, melted
tablespoons lemon juice in small bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Combine flour, cornmeal, remaining 1⁄2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon peel, baking powder and salt in medium bowl; mix well. Add soymilk mixture, coconut oil and flaxseed mixture; stir until just combined. Drop topping by 2 tablespoons into mounds over blueberry mixture.
4. Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown. Let stand 30 minutes before serving.
JULY HAPPENINGS
THURSDAY, JULY 24th
7:00PM-12:00AM
30TH ANNUAL STONY BROOK FILM FESTIVAL
Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Rd. in Stony Brook. The Stony Brook Film Festival showcases the best in independent film premieres. All films screen through July 26 in Staller Center’s Main Stage Theatre at Stony Brook University. For more information, please call 631-632-2787
SATURDAY, JULY 26th
9:00AM-2:00PM
LONG BEACH FARMERS MARKET
Kennedy Plaza, 1 West Chester Street in Long Beach. Each week, we're proud to host a group of passionate farmers, artisans, bakers, and makers who bring their best to share with our community. From fresh, locally grown produce to handmade goods and unique treats, every vendor has a story worth discovering. For more information, please visit https:// www.longbeachfarmersmarket.com/
10:00AM-4:00PM BLOOD DRIVE
AT EAST GATE CHURCH
New York Blood Center Blood Drive at East Gate Church, 1150 Hicksville Road in North Massapequa, during the "Christmas in July" Family Fair. For more information, please call 516-731-3553
6:30PM
NIGHT AT THE RACES
Will be held at Wade-Burns VFW
HOLIDAYS
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
7279, 560 N. Delaware Avenue, Lindenhurst, Doors open 6:30 p.m.
Admission $10. For more information, please call 631-888-9854
SUNDAY, JULY 27th
11:00AM-12:30PM
CARING FOR WILDLIFE PROGRAM AND WALK
At Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown, they offer wildlife rehabilitation at their nature center and take care of injured, sick, and orphaned animals. Participants will meet some of the resident non-releasable animals, find out their stories, and learn what you can do to help wildlife in our area. If you’re interested in becoming a rehabber this a good first step. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30th
6:30PM-8:30PM TAP ROOM GOES PURPLE TO END ALZHEIMER'S
The Alzheimer's Association Long Island Chapter is excited to partner with Tap Room for an awareness event. Tap Room, 206 Main Street in Farmingdale. Enjoy complimentary appetizers while you learn about: Free programs and services provided by the Alzheimer’s Association, the latest updates on Alzheimer’s research and treatments, ways you can get involved in any of our five Long Island Walks and volunteer Opportunities and valuable resources available.
For more information, please call 646-793-4851
6:30PM-10:00PM
2025 WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUMMER SERIES
Eisenhower Park - Field 2, Parking Lot 2, in East Meadow. 7PM StartRain or Shine, 6:30PM Kids Fun Run Start. Long Island Road Running Club's ongoing commitment to quality racing, healthy choices and bringing friends & family together! For more information, please call 516-531-3323
6:30PM
STRAWBERRY FIELDS BEATLES TRIBUTE
The Kiwanis Club of Copiague is hosting a fundraiser on July 30th, a Night of Music, Food and Friends. Amity Harbor Civic, 100 Western Concourse, Amity Harbor. $30 pp, pizza, wings, snacks, beer, wine & soda. Bring a lawn chair. RSVP Gene Murray 917-498-1781, or Mike Greb 631-835-7087
THURSDAY, JULY 31st
11:00AM-1:00PM
FANTASTICAL SEA BEASTS & WHERE TO FIND THEM
The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. No Registration Required Fire-breathing beasts! Galloping unicorns! Did you know that many mythic creatures featured in the Harry Potter world started their stories in the sea? For more information, please call 631-3673418
West Babylon Public Library
Movies begin at 1 pm
July 25: Arthur the King (PG-13, 107 min)
August 8: In the Heights (PG-13, 142 min)
CRICUT CRAFTING: SUMMER COASTERS Monday, July 28, 6-8 pm Non-refundable/transferable materials fee: $5.
CASUAL CRAFTING KIT
Saturday, July 26, 10 am-4 pm
Attend this class and you may be eligible for an auto premium discount and reduction of violation points. A $35 non-refundable check or money order (NO CASH)
July 29-August 4 Each kit comes with a small DIY craft to be completed at your leisure. West Babylon Card holders only.
PINEAPPLE BOAT FRUIT SALAD Thursday, July 31, 7-8:30
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West Babylon UFSD Leases Forest Avenue Elementary School To
Western Suffolk BOCES
The West Babylon School District is pleased to announce a new lease agreement with Western Suffolk BOCES, through which the entire Forest Avenue Elementary School building will be leased for educational use. Under the agreement, Western Suffolk BOCES will retain the Forest Avenue name and operate the building as an elementary school serving children with special education needs,
beginning in September 2025.
While the building itself will be fully leased to Western Suffolk BOCES, the West Babylon School District will continue to have access to the athletic fields for student and community use during afterschool hours.
“This agreement reflects the district’s continued commitment to responsible stewardship of community resources,”
said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly. “We’re proud that the Forest Avenue School building will continue to serve children and support educational excellence, especially for students who benefit from specialized programs.”
This collaboration underscores both organizations’ shared goal of supporting all learners in environments tailored to their development.
West Babylon Public Library
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pm
We’ll combine tropical fruits and coconut dressing for a showstopping dessert. Meet outside in the backyard, weather permitting.
COLOR OUR WORLD TINY ART CONTEST
Friday, August 1
Take part in our colorful Tiny Art Show! Pick up a 4 x 4 canvas & design it at home, then bring it back to be displayed and voted on. Canvas can be designed using any medium you like (paint, marker, color pencils, etc.) and should incorporate the Summer
Reading Color our World theme. The top 2 favorite pieces will win a prize. Blank canvases can be picked up at the Adult Reference Desk starting August 1st and MUST be returned by August 15. Voting will be held August 18-23. No registration is required.
EXOTIC WAREHOUSE
An
DRUG DROP-OFF EVENT
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 | 5 pm - 8 pm
Protect our loved ones youth, seniors, & pets against addiction and overdose by simply and safely disposing of unused, unwanted, and expired prescription medications The Lindenhurst Moose Lodge, Lindenhurst Community Cares, Community Action for Social Justice and Suffolk County Police C O P E have joined forces to create a united front in preventing addiction and overdose deaths in our community
Hope For Youth will be there to show you how to use Narcan an easy-to-use nasal spray that can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes You’ll learn how to spot the signs, how to use it the right way, and you’ll leave with your own Narcan kit. It’s quick, it’s free, and it could mean everything in the moment it’s needed Anyone who drops off medicine will receive a raffle ticket for a prize!
Together, We Can Make A Difference!
Please bring your prescription medications for safe disposal to:
LINDENHURST MOOSE LODGE #1421
883 SOUTH BROADWAY, LINDENHURST 11757
Visual Citi Awards Scholarships To Two Outstanding High School Graduates For Leadership, Service And Innovation
Visual Citi, a full-service signage, printing and fabrication company based in Lindenhurst, is proud to award two exceptional high school graduates with a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their remarkable achievements in academics, leadership, community service and innovation.
As the second annual scholarship program this is part of Visual Citi’s ongoing community initiative, underscoring Visual Citi’s commitment to fostering creativity and supporting the development of young local talent. Through this program, Visual Citi aims to inspire the next generation of architects, artists, designers, innovators and creative leaders by providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed while making a lasting impact on their community.
Frank Farrugia, a graduating senior from Lindenhurst High School, has been selected for his outstanding leadership and resilience. Frank is the President of the Class Council of 2025 and Vice President of both the Student Council and Lindenhurst Community Cares Club. He serves as Public Relations Coordinator for the National Honor Society, managing social media and photography, and is involved in numerous school clubs including the Italian Club, Peer Leadership, Yearbook Club, International Club, Mock Trial, and the Principal’s Leadership Council.
A three-sport Varsity athlete in volleyball, track, and lacrosse, Frank also discovered a deep passion for architecture — a field inspired by his late father who encouraged him to pursue it before passing
away from cancer in 2023. Despite facing immense personal loss, Frank has maintained academic excellence in honors, AP, and dual enrollment courses while nurturing his desire to create structures that bring people together and offer them a place to call home.
“Frank’s story is one of strength, purpose, and promise,” said Abbas Devji, President of Visual Citi. “He embodies everything this scholarship represents — perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to bettering the world around him. We wish him the best as he pursues his studies in architecture.”
Matthew Lottman, a graduating senior of West Babylon High School, is another deserving recipient of the Visual Citi scholarship. Deeply involved in Robotics Club, the National Honor Society,
Long Islanders Invited To Get Free Memory Screenings This Summer
Alzheimer’s Foundation Of America Offering Free Memory Screenings At Its Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center In Amityville Every Wednesday
Long Islanders can get free, confidential memory screenings this summer at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s (AFA) Barbara Rabinowitz Education and Resource Center, located at 149 Schleigel Blvd, in Amityville. Screenings will take place each Wednesday afternoon and are open to everyone, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 631223-4000. Memory screenings are quick (approximately 1015 minutes), noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other cognitive functions. They are similar to other routine health screenings, such as those for blood pressure, cholesterol, and skin checks. Screenings are administered one on one by a qualified professional, and results are confidential and provided immediately at the end of the screening. Results are not a diagnosis, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation. Early detection of memory impairments is vital. Many different conditions can cause memory issues, including treatable or curable conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea, stress, anxiety, and depression.
Even in the case of a dementia-related illness such as Alzheimer’s, early detection can provide greater opportunity to begin treatments when they are most effective, as well as taking part in a clinical trial. In addition, it affords the person the chance to take advantage of community services, such as support groups and therapeutic programming, which can help maximize quality of life, as well as have a greater say in making legal, financial, and health care decisions. Residents wishing to get a free memory screening at AFA’s Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center this summer can call the Center at 631223-4000 to schedule an appointment.
the National Technical Honor Society, and the Boy Scouts of America. Matt plans to study Mechanical Engineering at Farmingdale State College.
Inspired by his mother’s struggle with diabetes, he is determined to invent a pump that uses both glucose and insulin to regulate levels for patients, and design more affordable and effective medical devices that improve lives. Through scouting, Matt has helped coordinate events raising
funds for breast cancer and other causes and completed numerous service projects, including building garden beds for churches to grow food for those in need and constructing a gazebo at St. Paul’s Reformed Church in North Babylon for his Eagle Scout project.
Matthew is the Youth Lead for the Order of the Arrow in Suffolk County, the Boy Scouts’ national honor society, and they organize cleanups, hiking events, and fundraisers to support those
in need.
“Matthew’s passion for engineering, driven by love for his family and a heart for service, is inspiring,” said Arif Devji, Vice President of Visual Citi. “His vision for a better future aligns perfectly with the values we hold at Visual Citi.”
Visual Citi congratulates both recipients and looks forward to seeing the positive impact Frank and Matthew will make in their communities and beyond.
Samantha Smith, Director of Project Management, congratulates Lindenhurst High School graduating senior Frank Farrugia after presenting him with the Visual Citi scholarship and giving him a tour of Visual Citi’s state-of-the-art facility in Lindenhurst.
Samantha Smith, Director of Project Management, presents scholarship from Visual Citi to West Babylon High School graduating senior Matthew Lottman. Matthew will be attending Farmingdale State College and plans to study Mechanical Engineering. They are joined here by Principal Stephen O’Leary and Susan Hickey, Matthew’s Guidance Counselor.
West Babylon Alumni Foundation Hall Of Fame
Please be advised that the deadline for submitting applications to nominate a West Babylon graduate for our Hall of Fame has been
to July 31, 2025. Applications can be obtained on our website
www.westbabylonalumni. org or on our West Babylon Alumni Foundation Facebook page. You can also receive an application via an email by simply making a request to our email wbalumni@
wbschools.org
The alumni awards recognize exceptional achievements of West Babylon graduates who have made significant contributions to their profession/society &
community. The nominees must be out of high school for a minimum of 5 years. There is also a category for a nongraduate who has made significant contributions to the betterment of the
WB School District and community.
Completed forms and supporting documents must be either hand delivered Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm to the Superintendent’s office or mailed (postmarked by July 31, 2025) to: West Babylon Alumni Foundation Att: Hall of Fame Committee 10 Farmingdale Rd. West Babylon, NY 11704
Town of Babylon Recognizes 8-Year-Old Zamari Harrell
Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Deputy Supervisor and Councilman Tony Martinez, Assemblyman Khaleel M. O’Pharrow, and Councilman Terence McSweeney proudly recognized 8-year-old Zamari Harrell for his outstanding contributions to the community through his youth-led initiative, Chappo Cashing Cans.
Zamari, the founder of Chappo Cashing Cans, has turned a simple recycling effort into a creative and impactful movement. His work transforms discarded cans into art while promoting environmental awareness and community pride. Through his efforts, he has helped clean up neighborhoods across Wyandanch and the greater
Long Island area. In recognition of his leadership and dedication, Zamari has been named a Town of Babylon Junior Beautification Ambassador, becoming a role model for youth engagement and environmental stewardship.
“Zamari is a shining example of how one
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young person can make a real difference,” said Supervisor Rich Schaffer. “His passion and creativity are inspiring residents of all ages to take pride in their community.”
Councilman Terence McSweeney, who also serves as Chairman of the Town’s Beautification Program, praised Zamari’s initiative, stating:
“Zamari embodies the spirit of
community service. His creativity, energy, and commitment to a cleaner, more beautiful Babylon are truly remarkable. He’s not just cleaning up our neighborhoods—he’s setting an example for all of us.”
For more information on the Town of Babylon’s beautification programs or to get involved, please contact the Office of Councilman McSweeney at (631) 957-3081.
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