NORTH BABYLON HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025 CELEBRATES COMMENCEMENT
Parents, friends, family, teachers and administrators celebrated North Babylon High School’s Class of 2025 at the 66th annual commencement ceremony on June 27. Principal Dr. Jonathan Klomp thanked students for their care and passion during their high school years, and encouraged the Class of 2025 to live “artistically, creatively,” and to “be the change” in the world. Pictured: A Class of 2025 graduate posed with the school’s bulldog mascot. Photo courtesy of North Babylon School District
North Babylon High School Class Of 2025 Celebrates Commencement
Parents, friends, family, teachers and administrators celebrated North Babylon High School’s Class of 2025 at the 66th annual commencement ceremony on June 27 at the high school’s football field.
After the ceremony opened with the North Babylon Fire Company Color Guard leading the Pledge of Allegiance, members of the school’s orchestra and concert choir treated the crowd to a beautiful performance of the national anthem.
Student leaders recounted the many memories the class shared together which brought them closer throughout the years.
“We’ve laughed together, cried together and grown together,”
Student Council President Grace Johnston told her fellow graduates. “But more importantly, we learned how to stand up for each other, how to try again after failing, how to be human.”
Salutatorian Jayden Tran reminisced about
North Babylon High School Valedictorian Joseph Licata addressed the Class of 2025 at the commencement ceremony on June 27. Photos courtesy of North Babylon School District
times when the school’s staff helped work through the academic and personal challenges that arise from coming of age in today’s world. “The hardest step to take is often the beginning, where you’re most doubtful,” Tran said. “But not being sure of yourself and choosing to continue moving forward is a sign of strength and resilience.”
Principal Dr. Jonathan Klomp thanked students for their care and passion during their high school years, and encouraged
the Class of 2025 to live “artistically, creatively,” and to “be the change” in the world. “Students, I want you to know that you inspire me every day,” Klomp said. “You inspire the faculty and staff. We love your energy, enthusiasm and your expertise and creativity.”
The Class of 2025 will be remembered for its incredible passion for uplifting each other and the community in a variety of ways. “Class of 2025, you have the world ahead of you and opportunities
abound,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Graham said. “Each of you will be faced with everyday decisions, opportunities and situations, as well as extraordinary decisions, opportunities and situations that will require you to be superheroes and we know you will be up for it.”
“As we head into the next chapter – college, the military, the workforce, or wherever life leads –we carry with us not just grades and achievements, but a responsibility,” said
valedictorian and future West Point cadet Joseph Licata. “A responsibility to leave every space we enter better than we found it.” The administration and students took a solemn moment before the class took to the stage to honor late classmate Dymond Saunders, who the community tragically lost in August 2024, as the first diploma recipient. A seat was left empty in the first row to honor Saunders. Her friend Natalia Lomax accepted the diploma on behalf of her family.
Salutatorian Jayden Tran spoke about embracing the challenges of everyday life.
Class of 2025 graduate Natalia Lomax accepted a diploma from Principal Dr. Jonathan Klomp on behalf of her late friend and classmate Dymond Saunders.
A Class of 2025 graduate celebrated the moment his name was called.
A Class of 2025 graduate posed with the school’s bulldog mascot.
Thank You Is Still Good Business
By JoAnn Cilla
Lately, it’s easy to get caught up in how fast business is changing, especially with all the buzz around AI and automation. As I watch these tools transform how we work, market, and connect, I realize that the more we rely on them, the more important it is to remember the things that make us human.
One of those things is the simple act of saying thank you.
A sincere thank you can acknowledge a purchase or referral—but it also affirms relationships. A proper thank you says, “I see you. I appreciate you. You matter.” That’s not something AI can replicate—not really. In today’s digital world, where everyone spends hours each day on their smartphones, human connection is a true differentiator. It’s what helps a local business stand out in a sea of algorithms and automated chat bots.
This summer, local business owners have a
perfect opportunity to deepen relationships with the customers who support them all year long. Here are five meaningful and creative ways to show your appreciation:
1. Host a Customer Appreciation Event – Turn your store or office into a mini summer party. Customers can stop by for food, raffles, and music.
2. Offer Personal Touches – Slip a handwritten note or surprise freebie into a customer’s bag. A thoughtful gesture can be more memorable than a discount.
3. Give Back in Their Honor – Make a small donation to a local nonprofit and let customers know it’s thanks to their continued support. Gratitude backed by action speaks volumes.
4. Create Exclusive Summer Experiences – Invite top clients to a special evening with early access to new items, refreshments, or mini workshops. Make Wthem feel like insiders.
5. Spotlight Loyal Customers – Use social media to celebrate your regulars. A quick photo and a kind word can go a long way in reinforcing relationships. As AI continues to evolve, let’s remember that relationships are the one thing no machine can replicate. Saying thank you is still smart business— and it’s the kind of human connection that keeps communities like ours strong.
I look forward to seeing you around town.
JOANN CILLA
RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Grilled Striper With Cactus And Black Beans
It’sgrilling season, and people are on the lookout for delicious recipes they can easily cook outdoors. Many fall back on tried-and-true favorites because they may be apprehensive about grilling with new ingredients. But grilling is more than just burgers and steaks. In fact, seafood is a great option for the grill, and it cooks up in a snap.The following recipe for “Grilled Striper with Cactus and Black Beans” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) is a great seafood dish to grill up this summer.
Serves 4
4 fillets wild striped bass, approximately 8 ounces each
1 teaspoon southwestern blend rub
1 tablespoon canola oil
4 cactus paddles (called nopales in Mexican markets)
3 cups Bacon-Laced Black Beans (see below)
1 lemon
DIRECTIONS:
Clean the fish well, removing any bones and scales, and pat dry. Dust each fillet with the rub, then brush each with canola oil just before grilling. Grill over high heat for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through. The time may vary, depending on your grill. Clean the cactus paddles well with a sharp knife, removing any small needles. Grill the cactus over high heat, just tossing it right onto the grill bars — no oil, no seasonings. Once the cactus begins to bubble slightly, turn over and season with a sprinkle of the rub. As soon as both sides are lightly charred and the cactus is bubbling inside, it’s ready to serve. Pull the cactus from the grill and cut into strips. Line a platter with a layer of the cactus and top with the black beans; then lay the
grilled striper on top. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon and serve.
BACON-LACED BLACK BEANS
Serves 8 to 10
1 pound black turtle beans, rinsed under cold water
1 large yellow onion, diced and divided
4 strips bacon, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt
1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS:
Place the beans and half of the chopped onion in a saucepot with just enough cold water to cover. Soak in the fridge overnight, then simmer for approximately 1 hour (do not drain), just until the beans become soft. Strain the liquid into a separate bowl and keep it for later. In a separate pot, render the bacon, then add the remaining onion and the garlic. Sauté until the onion has softened; then pour the beans and 1 cup of their cooking liquid into the pot. Puree the mix with a stick blender until smooth.
Presiding Officer McCaffrey & County Executive Romaine Recognized By Vision Long Island
On Friday, June 13, 2025, Vision Long Island hosted the 24th Annual Long Island Smart Growth Awards, highlighting locally planned projects in 17 Long Island communities that bring housing, infrastructure, economic and environmental benefits to neighborhoods and small businesses.
At the event, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Suffolk County Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey were presented with an Environmental Leadership award for the passage of the Suffolk County Water Quality Restoration Act.
On June 25, 2024, the Suffolk County Legislature, under the leadership of Presiding Officer McCaffrey, voted to extend and revise the Suffolk County Drinking Water Protection Program
and establish a Water Quality Restoration Fund. Collectively named the “Suffolk County Water Quality Restoration Act,” these actions create a long-term plan to expand and upgrade Suffolk County’s aging wastewater infrastructure and gives the County the authority to establish a new, stable, and long-term funding source for wastewater improvement projects.
Said Presiding Officer McCaffrey: “This was a team effort. A lot of work went into this and a lot of people before us came up with this great idea. I am proud to have been able to get this Act into its final version and across the finish line for the betterment of our County, and thankful for the support of County Executive Ed Romaine throughout this process. In the original version, I felt we needed to find a
On Friday, June 13, 2025, Vision Long Island hosted the 24th Annual Long Island Smart Growth Awards, highlighting locally planned projects in 17 Long Island communities that bring housing, infrastructure, economic and environmental benefits to neighborhoods and small businesses. At the event, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Suffolk County Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey were presented with an Environmental Leadership award for the passage of the Suffolk County Water Quality Restoration Act.
better balance. Through perseverance, a little arm twisting and a little sacrifice, we came together and got this where it
needed to be.”
The 24th Annual Long Island Smart Growth Awards ceremony was attended by over 700 of
Long Island’s civic, small business, development, and government leaders – including more than 60 elected officials, 30
chamber of commerce leaders and 25 civic leaders representing over 50 downtowns across Long Island.
The Original Salpino of Wantagh, N. Babylon & Dix Hills
JULY HAPPENINGS
THURSDAY, JULY 10th
6:15PM-8:00PM
EVENING GARDEN VOLUNTEER GROUP
Biweekly Thursday evening garden meet-up. Bring your garden gloves, snacks, and whatever else to our evening garden meetup. Recommended for adults and families with children 12y and up. No cost Meet at the gazabo in the volunteer garden. Bring water or a reusable cup/bottle. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
SATURDAY, JULY 12th & SUNDAY, JULY 13th
10:00AM-6:00PM
LONG BEACH ARTS AND CRAFTS BOARDWALK FESTIVAL
The City of Long Beach Department of Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce that the 2025 Arts and Crafts Boardwalk Festival has returned. Vendor applications are available. All artisans are encouraged to apply! For more information, please call 516-705-7414
THROUGH JULY 13th
5-11PM WEEKDAYS AND NOON-11 PM SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS & JULY 4th
EMPIRE STATE FAIR
This family-fun annual event features a variety of live entertainment, four nights of spectacular Fireworks by Grucci, exciting rides and games for the whole family, and plenty of delicious fair food. For more information, please call 866-666-3247
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
SATURDAY, JULY 19th
10:00AM-4:00PM
ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
Wantagh Preservation Society's 4th Annual Antique Car Show.(Rain date Sunday July 20th) Wantagh Preservation Society Museum, 1700 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. Cars from 1960's & older. Entrance fee $1. Refreshments for sale, 50/50 raffle, music! Go inside Wantagh's 1885 Train Station, Wantagh's 1907 Post office & get your free ticket to board the 1912 Jamaica Parlor car, (Parlor car open from 12 - 2pm). emailWantaghmuseum@gmail.com (Matt)
6:30PM-10:30PM
HAWAIIAN LUAU
Grab your grass skirt & Hawaiian shirt. Brumidi Lodge, Deer Park is hosting a HAWAIIAN LUAU. Hawaiian Style Buffet Dinner, Slushies & soda included, Tiki Bar, Brumidi’s Famous Hawaiian Entertainment DJ Gene & Joanne Spinning in the Music Hut. Raffles & Much More Summer Fun For tickets and more information, please call Anita 631-422-6914. Sons & Daughters of Italy in America 2075 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park.
SUNDAY, JULY 20th
11:00AM-4:00PM
SPIRIT OF SUMMER ART FESTIVAL Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Rd. N. Huntington Station. A day of celebrating inclusion and diversity in the arts, hand-made goods, community, food trucks, raffles, games, music performances, fun crafts and activities for the whole family! Hosted by the Spirit of Huntington, a non-profit community art center that
teaches creative expression classes to all ages and all abilities. Connected with over 500 participants and dozens of local organizations across Long Island. For more information, please call 631-470-9620
MONDAY, JULY 21st
9:00AM-12:00PM VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 36 E. John Street in Lindenhurst. July 21st through July 25th. Bible lessons, Music, Games, Crafts, Snacks, and more! FREE!! Grades K-6th. Register at https:// saintjohnsvbs.myanswers.com
SATURDAY, JULY 26th
6:30PM NIGHT AT THE RACES
Will be held at Wade-Burns VFW 7279, 560 N. Delaware Avenue, Lindenhurst, Doors open 6:30 p.m. Admission $1. For more information, please call 631888-9854
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. In this presentation 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
Summertime Skin Protection Strategies
Summer is a season to soak up some sun and enjoy the
through August. Though no one wants to dampen the summer fun, it’s important to note that the season should not be entirely carefree. In fact, emphasizing skin protection is vital to ensuring the season is both fun and safe.
• Wear sunscreen every day. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery urges individuals to wear sunscreen every day in the summer. No two people are the same, and that’s evident in the various skin types. People with fair skin may already know from experience that they need to apply sunscreen in the summer. But ASDS notes even people with naturally darker skin that tends to tan instead of burn need to wear sunscreen every day as well. The ASDS recommends applying
roughly one ounce of sunscreen two to three times each day in summer. Sunscreen should have a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. It’s possible to get sunburn even in cooler climates or on cloudy days when time in direct sunlight is minimal. So the sunscreen rule can apply year-round, but is especially important in summer when people tend to spend more time outdoors than during other times of year.
• Opt for protective clothing. The ASDS notes that unbleached cotton, tightly woven
Summertime Skin Protection Strategies
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T-shirts or shorts, and widebrimmed hats provide excellent protection against the sun. Many manufacturers now offer highSPF clothing that absorbs UV rays. Pairing such clothing with daily applications of sunscreen can be a great way to protect skin against summer sun.
• Pay attention to your skin. Routine skin examinations in summertime can uncover warning signs of skin cancer. For example, the ASDS notes that discoloration, a changing mile or a rough red patch of skin are early warning signs of skin cancer. Contact a dermatologic surgeon immediately if any of these signs are detected.
• Avoid sunbathing to reduce sunburn risk. The ASDS notes the only way to prevent exposure to potentially harmful sunburn is to stay in the shade. Though many consider a little color in summertime harmless, the reality is that skin cancer develops over time and sunburn is dangerous. Each sunburn a person gets increases his or her risk of developing skin cancer, so even a mild sunburn that disappears in a day or two can have a long-term and potentially deadly impact.
Fun in the summer sun is part of what makes the season so special. But it’s imperative that people take steps to protect their skin from sun damage when enjoying warm summer days in the great outdoors.
