Legislator Kevin McCaffrey recently served as the guest speaker for the monthly meeting of the Babylon Lions Club! McCaffrey provided an abridged “State of the County” presentation and discussed several infrastructure projects that have become priorities, including actions to be taken under the Suffolk Water Quality Restoration Act passed at the end of last year. Said McCaffrey: “I
President Matt Morse and the Babylon Lions for the invitation and the great
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
MAIN COURSE (Choose one)
• All Natural Hormone Free Stuffed Pork Roast
• USDA Prime Stuffed Flank Steak Roast
• Boar’s Head Brown Sugar, Sweet Sliced Holiday Ham *4-5lb. avg. All
ORDERS MUST BE PLACED BY APRIL 16TH
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
FIRST COURSE (Choose one full tray)
• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna
• Traditional Baked Ziti
• Penne alla Vodka
• Manicotti
• Stuffed Shells
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
1/2 GALLONS
211 Route 109
West Babylon (631) 669-5445
www.wbpl.us
Nancy Evans, Director ***
FRIDAY FLICKS
Movies begin at 1 pm WBA720
West Babylon Public Library
Friday: March 21: Leap Year (PG, 100 min)
VEGGIE & BLACK BEAN QUESADILLAS
Thursday, March 20, 7-8:30 pm WBA606
A nutritious and delicious option for lunch or dinner.
You’ll learn the best techniques and sample them with salsa and sour cream.
HERE COMES SPRING FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS
Monday, March 24, 7-8 pm
WBA129 IN PERSON
Join florist Irene in person at the Library and create a beautiful floral arrangement. Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.
PAINTED LIGHTED WINE BOTTLE
Tuesday, March 25, 7-8:30 pm
WBA131 IN PERSON
Join Betty to paint your own lighted wine bottle. Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.
SENIOR ADVOCATE
Thursday, March 27, 10 am-12 pm
A Suffolk County Office for the Aging representative will be here to help with
Medicaid, Senior ID Cards, food stamps, & more. Patrons will be helped on a first-come, first-served basis.
CRICUT CRAFTING: SASSY SOCKS
Friday, March 28, 11 am-1 pm WBA809
Learn how to design your own personalized socks using our Makerspace Cricut machine. Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.
SEED
GRAB BAG
Monday, March 31, 4-6 pm
Looking to start your garden? Stop by the library to choose from our seeds! No registration necessary.
ENGLISH: BEGINNERS
Tuesdays: April 1 & 15 WBA200 6:15-7:15 pm
Join us for this monthly class to help enhance your English language skills.
UNVEILING THE POWER
OF NATIVE PLANTS
Tuesday, April 1, 7-8 pm WBA502
Join us for this introduction to native plants including biodiversity, LI’s watershed, lawn culture, leave the leaves, habitat, and an overview of some of our
most important Long Island native plants.
YOGA
Wednesdays: April 2-30 6-7 pm WBA404
Non-refundable/transferable fee for the 5-week session: $10.
FEATURING
Lindenhurst Springfest
Making The Most Of A Spring Reset
By JoAnn Cilla
In 2025, more people are prioritizing purposeful living, making this spring season ideal for introducing the changes you want to see in your life. A good spring reset can include setting new goals, strengthening important relationships, and exploring a few creative outlets. I did some research and found four ways to begin your journey toward a more vibrant year and mindset starting this month!
Try Something New Outdoors: This month, consider planting a simple raised herb garden. It will add beauty to your backyard, and you get to reap what you see. Clear away winter debris, loosen the soil, and choose hardy, native plants that thrive in your region for a truly flourishing and ecoconscious yard.
Reboot Your Fitness Routine: Warmer days encourage us to move more, ** but if you don’t have a regular exercise routine, consider a gentle approach. ** Start with daily morning stretches or short walks to awaken your muscles. Gradually incorporate activities like
biking or yoga outdoors. Prioritizing restful sleep and balanced meals will also promote better energy and overall wellbeing.
Refresh Your Professional Goals: Whether you want a new job or want to learn Continued On 15
Town Of Babylon To Host Career Fair For High School Students, Young Adults
Event To Focus On Career Opportunities For Those Not Attending College Aimed At Filling Future Workforce Shortages
Town of Babylon Councilmen Anthony Manetta and Terence McSweeney are excited to announce their 2025 Career Fair, an invaluable opportunity for high school students, young adults, recent graduates, and families to explore potential career paths and connect with industry professionals. The event will take place on April 30th , from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, at the Town Hall Annex Gym, located at 281 Phelps Lane, North Babylon.
The Career Fair will focus on providing career guidance and job opportunities for students and young adults who may not be pursuing traditional college paths. Attendees will have the chance to meet representatives from trade unions, first responder agencies, healthcare organizations, and a variety of local private sector companies
offering promising career options.
Councilman Manetta, who also is Chairman of the Town of Babylon Small Business Committee, cites a 2023 survey conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York that highlights the need to fill the pending workforce shortages across the region, “Worker shortages are a significant issue on Long Island, with nearly a third of businesses identifying hiring and compensation as top concerns in the 2023 Long Island Economic Survey. Factors driving worker shortages include an aging population, a lack of affordable housing, and a high cost of living.
Business leaders noted difficulties in attracting workers to Long Island and recruiting employees with specialized or technical skills.” 1
“This event is an excellent resource for young people and their families to learn about career paths that do not require a four-year degree,” said Councilman Manetta. “We are bringing together local manufacturing companies, trade unions, and professionals to help connect our students to good-paying, stable jobs right here on Long Island.”
The Long Island Federation of Labor, AFLCIO, and the Building and Construction Trades
Council of Nassau & Suffolk Counties, AFLCIO, and the Town of Babylon Chamber of Commerce Collaborative are partnering to present this important event. Their collaboration
ensures a wide range of career options are available, including opportunities in skilled trades, emergency services, and healthcare. Students, families, recent graduates, and guidance counselors and presenting companies are all encouraged to attend. To RSVP or for additional information, please contact Councilman Manetta’s Office at AManetta@ TownofBabylonNY.gov or call 631-957-4482. https:// tellerwindow.newyorkfed. org/2024/04/04/ regional-visit-showshousing-affordabilityinfrastructure-as-topissues-for-businessesand-communities-onlong-island/
ANTHONY MANETTA COUNCILMAN
TERENCE MCSWEENEY COUNCILMAN
EXOTIC WAREHOUSE
Garage Door Sale!
MARCH HAPPENINGS
SAT., MARCH 22nd
10:00AM-1:00PM
LENTEN COLLECTION FOR SOLES4SOULS
Farmingdale United Methodist Church, 407 Main Street, invites the community to join their Lenten Collection for SOLES4SOULS, a nonprofit organization that collects new/slightly used shoes and distributes them to people in need. Donations can be brought to their Grant Avenue entrance.
SUN., MARCH 23rd
11:00AM-5:00PM
ST JAMES MODEL RAILROAD CLUB
WINTER OPEN HOUSE
Located at the Mills Pond House in St James. Once again opening to the public with many new additions to the Layout There is a requested donation, Adults $2.00, Children .50. PLEASE NOTE: The St. James Model Railroad Club is not handicapped accessible. For further information call evenings 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732
12:00PM-4:00PM
ANNUAL ST JOSEPH CELEBRATION
Long Island Society of Italian Americans (LISIA) are getting ready for their annual St Joseph Celebration at The Inn at New Hyde Park. $100.00 per person includes antipasto, complete dinner, beer, wine & soda and dancing. Call Diane Langella @ 516-398-3484 for additional information and reservations.
TUES., MARCH 25th
7:00PM
N. BABYLON LIONS CLUB
GENERAL MEETING
HOLIDAYS
9th - Daylight Savings Begins
17th - St. Patrick's Day
20th - Spring Begins
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
151 Phelps Lane - In the Blue Room, in N. Babylon. We're not just Pancakes and Pasta. Join us in helping others while having fun. Contact: Joefatuzzo@gmail.com
THURS., MARCH 27th
6:30PM-9:30PM
MUSIC BINGO FUNDRAISER
The Seaford Historical Society will host a fundraiser, Music Bingo, at the museum. The event is $25 per person, which includes 2 bingo cards. There will be raffles, door prize and a 50/50. Coffee and water will be available. The museum is located at 3890 Waverly Ave. in Seaford. Tickets can be purchased at their website seafordhistoricalsociety.org/musicbingo. Seating is limited. For more information, please call Judy Bongiovi at 516-783-8629
FRI., MARCH 28th
10:00AM-1:00PM FIND YOUR TREASURE SALE
Simpson UMC Presents A Find your treasure sale. Clothing $5 a bag. New Clothing $3 a garment, Household Items, Children’s clothing, toys and furniture, Small animal needs. Something for everyone! Simpson UMC, 30 Locust Avenue in Amityville. Call Mary for more information 516-991-8098
SAT., MARCH 29th
8:30AM-11:30AM
HECKSCHER STATE PARK
MARATHON, HALF MARATHON & 5K
1 Heckscher State Parkway, Field 6 in East Islip. Rain or Shine. Boston
Qualifier Marathon and USATF
Certified 5K and Half Marathon! The
course is fully stocked with water and nutrition stops. The course is on fully closed park roads. This is one of the 1st Marathons & Half Marathons of the spring - come run a well supported event at Scenic Heckscher State Park! Each runner will receive a long-sleeved shirt & a finisher medal! For more information, please contact Brendan Dagan 516-531-3323
SUN., MARCH 30th
12:00PM-5:00PM NORTH BABYLON LIONS CLUB DART TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER
Sand City Brewery, 150 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. $39pp to play, includes cold foods and cash bar. $15pp to be a guest, includes cold foods and cash bar. Raffles, 50/50. Come join the fun and support one of their causes. For more info https://www.ourgroupline.org/ TheLionsClubofNorthBabylon/ or contact gail315@optonline.net
2:00PM FREE MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
Echoes of Sinatra at the Hicksville Public Library – Keeping the “Sinatra” memory alive! The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For the full concert schedule and further information, please call 516-797-7900 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com/CAPA.
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.
Support Blood Collections
(NAPSI)—To ensure the nation’s blood supply is prepared for all emergencies, the Red Cross urges individuals to donate blood via the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS and by volunteering to support blood collections at www.redcross.org/ VolunteerToday.
Making The Most Of A Spring Reset
Continued From 6
more about AI, March is a great month to work on your business goals. Small changes—like introducing ergonomic tools or rearranging furniture—can spark motivation and lead to increased productivity and fulfillment. If it is a new job you want, be prepared for a much tougher job market. Remote work has increased the number of
job candidates tenfold, and it’s easier than ever to apply for jobs online. In the past, when job openings attracted dozens of résumés, today recruiters are getting hundreds and thousands of them.
Elevate Your Living Space: If you’re staying put in 2025 or aiming to list your home, freshening up interior details is a must. Easily add a new coat of paint,
swap out heavy drapes for breezy curtains, and incorporate statement lighting. A little organization, such as storage bins or labeled cabinets, makes daily routines easier. Simple upgrades give your home an uplifting atmosphere, ready to greet friends, neighbors, and sunny skies.
Welcome Spring! Who’s excited to start their projects?
JOANN CILLA
WHOLE HOUSE CLEAN OUTS & MOVE OUTS BASEMENTS, ATTICS, GARAGES CLEANED OUT
SHEDS,DECKS POOLS, ETC DEMOLISHED AND REMOVED NO DUMP-
Application Open For Fall 2025 Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse And Caregiver Scholarships
National Scholarship Program Accepting Applications Until April 30
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 counselingrelated 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.
POWER WASHING
•Siding, Roofs, Gutters & Patio
Protecting Your Assets Is
Your Identity Safe? What To Do If It’s Not
by Mariana Raymond of Truecaller
(NAPSI)—Identity theft is becoming more common, affecting people from all walks of life—but you can protect yourself.
The Problem
Scammers are always finding new ways to steal personal information, often leaving their victims with financial losses and a sense of violation.
An Answer
Staying informed can make a big difference in keeping yourself safe. Here’s what you should know:
How Identity Theft Happens
Move in Condition Bright and Airy Non Sm okin g. $2400 - $2600/monthly plus Utilities. Advantage + (631) 957-0096. Mary Ann (516) 220-0641
Most identity theft happens online. Often when someone clicks links from text messages, emails, or even is catfished. The link you click could lead you to a fake website to input credentials or have you install an app that can retrieve your passwords to important accounts.
Identity Theft Scams on the Rise
Get Results Call Classifed 631-226-2636 Press “2”
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?
Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276
• Synthetic Identity Theft: With synthetic identity theft, scammers mix real and fake information to create a new, false identity. They might use a real Social Security number alongside made-up details. This lets them open bank accounts, get credit cards, or even apply for loans—using a fake identity that feels all too real.
• Deepfake and AI-driven Identity Theft: As technology advances, criminals use tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) to create deepfakes—fake videos or voices that look and sound just like real people. They can use these to trick others into believing they are someone else. It’s a high-tech problem, but you don’t need to be a tech expert to fight back.
Ways to Protect Yourself No solution is foolproof, but there are 7 steps you can take to protect yourself and lower the chances of becoming a victim:
4. Monitor Your Credit Regularly: Keep an eye on your credit reports for anything unusual, such as new accounts you didn’t open. It’s one of the quickest ways to spot identity theft early. Many places offer free credit monitoring services, so take advantage of them.
or a di splay
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
• Medical Identity Theft: Medical identity theft happens when someone uses your personal medical information to access healthcare services, prescription drugs, or medical devices. This can leave you with unexpected medical bills or inaccurate records, which can complicate future treatments. It’s a frustrating situation, but knowing what to look for can help.
• Account Takeover Fraud:
In account takeover fraud, scammers take control of your online accounts, such as banking, email, or social media. This often happens through phishing emails, weak passwords, or data breaches. Once inside, they can drain your funds or steal even more personal details. It’s scary, but there are ways to protect yourself.
1. Use a Caller ID & Scam Blocking app: The Truecaller app helps identify unknown calls and messages, and will even identify scam numbers in real time. People around the world actively report numbers as scams and write comments about their experience, and you can see statistics about scammers’ call patterns.
2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Use passwords that are tough to crack— mix letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid reusing passwords across accounts. A password manager can be a handy tool to create and store them safely.
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. After entering your password, you’ll need to verify your identity again, like with a code sent to your phone. It’s like adding a second lock on your door, making it harder for scammers to break in.
5. Consider Identity Theft Protection Services: Some services can keep an eye on your personal information and alert you if they spot something suspicious. While they can’t prevent identity theft, they can make the recovery process smoother if it happens to you.
6. Secure Your Devices: Keep your phone, computer, and other devices updated with the latest security patches. Use antivirus software and strong passwords to keep hackers out. It’s a simple habit that can go a long way.
7. Shred Important Documents: Even in today’s digital age, physical paperwork can still be a goldmine for thieves. Shred any documents with personal information—bank statements or medical bills— before you toss them out. Staying informed about the latest scams and being careful with your information can make a big difference. And if you do become a victim, don’t panic. Report it to the authorities or your credit bureau right away. They can help you limit the damage and start the recovery process.
Learn More
For further facts and tips, visit www.truecaller.com.
Spring Market Is
c- 516-456-6644
e- susan lombardi@elliman com
Welcome to Spring: Beautiful Memories & New Beginnings
In the tender clutch of spring’s embrace, Where blossoms bloom and spaces grace, A chapter closes, pages turned, With lessons lived and wisdom earned.
The house that held our dreams and fears, A sentinel through passing years, Now whispers softly, “Time to part,” A new adventure is about to start.
With paintbrush strokes and clutter cleared, Each nook caressed, each corner cheered, The walls that echoed laughter’s light, Now stand prepared for buyers’ sight.
JoAnn Cilla Real Estate Agency - Your Dreams, Our Commitment. Susan Lombardi
