South Bay's Neighbor
TOWN OF BABYLON ANNOUNCES IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
During a recent board meeting, Town of Babylon officials recognized March as Irish-American Heritage Month. Supervisor Rich Schaffer presented a Proclamation to the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 2 of Babylon commemorating this. L to R: John Gallagher Teamsters Local 237, DuWayne Gregory, TOB Councilman Tony Martinez, TOB Deputy Supervisor, Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, Piper Bob Farrell, Kevin Ferry, Bob O’Shea, Darrel Clark, Bob O’Shea, Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Jim McGrath, Councilman Anthony Manetta, Receiver of Taxes Jenifer Montiglio.
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Babylon Public Library
24 S. Carll Ave. Babylon, NY
Erin White 631.669.1624
ADULT PROGRAMS
Medicare Workshop
Wednesday, March 26, 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Join us for an educational seminar to help you understand how the Medicare system works. We will discuss: Medicare Parts A, B, C & D; Medicare Supplements & Medicare Advantage Plans and Prescription Drug Plans. This workshop is beneficial if
you are either turning 65 or if you are currently enrolled in Medicare and interested in learning more. Presented by Mary Parker and Steve Maisto of Senior Health Care Solutions. Please register for this program.
Friday Films: The Quiet Man Friday, March 28, 2:00pm – 4:00pm We will be watching The Quiet Man (1952). A retired American boxer (John Wayne) returns to the village of his birth in 1920s Ireland, where he falls for a spirited redhead (Maureen O’Hara) whose brother (Victor McLaglen) is contemptuous of their union. Rated PG. Running time 129 minutes. No registration required.
Social Work Intern
Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29 1:00pm – 7:45pm (last appointment 7:30pm) Meet with our Social Work Intern, Lola. Lola can provide referrals to Continued On 10
Town Of Babylon Announces Irish American Heritage Month
During a recent board meeting, Town of Babylon officials recognized March as Irish-American Heritage Month.
Supervisor Rich Schaffer presented a Proclamation to the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 2 of Babylon commemorating this. Supervisor Schaffer said, “This month serves as an opportunity to honor the invaluable contributions of our Irish ancestors and those who carry on their traditions, highlighting the deep-rooted connections between Ireland and the United States.”
Councilman Terence McSweeney who brought this resolution to the board said, “This is a time to celebrate the profound impact of Irish culture across various fields, including the arts, sciences, music, sports, politics, and business. The hard work and commitment of the Irish community have greatly enriched our society and helped shape the nation we know today.”
As you walk by town hall, you will see the cupola illuminated in green, symbolizing the celebration of this important month.
L to R: John Gallagher Teamsters Local 237, DuWayne Gregory, TOB Councilman Tony Martinez, TOB Deputy Supervisor, Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, Piper Bob Farrell, Kevin Ferry, Bob O’Shea, Darrel Clark, Bob O’Shea, Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Jim McGrath, Councilman Anthony Manetta, Receiver of Taxes Jenifer Montiglio.
MARCH HAPPENINGS
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/ music-bingo. 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
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
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 longsleeved shirt & a finisher medal! For more information, please contact Brendan Dagan 516-5313323
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.
FUEL OIL
THROUGH MARCH 30th
8:00AM-6:00PM
FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW AT HICKS NURSERIES
100 Jericho Turnpike in Westbury. Free Event. Spring is in the Air at Hicks Nurseries’ 35th Annual Flower & Garden Show! Escape the chill of winter and step into spring as you discover eight unique gardens in full bloom. For more information, please call 516-334-0066
11:00AM-4:00PM MONSTER MAYHEM SCAVENGER HUNT
At The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday through March 30. Cost: Free Event. For Kids. Search for monster-themed artifacts hidden throughout our exhibits in this legendary scavenger hunt. Discover them all and win a finger puppet monster to take home! For more information, please call Cristina Ainslie at 631-367-3418
MON., MARCH 31st
7:30PM
BABYLON CHORALE AUDITIONS
The Babylon Chorale will hold auditions starting with rehearsal at 7:30pm at Sisters of St. Joseph Brentwood Campus, Building 5 All voice parts are welcomed. For further information, visit www.babylonchorale.org or email info@babylonchorale.org
Legislator Kevin McCaffrey Recognizes Judy Skillen As Woman Of Distinction
On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Suffolk County Legislature gathered for the annual Women of Distinction Recognition Ceremony. Presiding Officer McCaffrey was proud to recognize Judy Skillen as the Woman of Distinction for Legislative District 14!
Each year, the Suffolk County Legislature partners with the Suffolk County Office of Women’s Services and the Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission to recognize outstanding women dedicated to community service. In doing so, each Legislator has the opportunity to name a “Woman of Distinction” from their legislative district to be recognized at a General Meeting in accordance with Resolution 786–2002.
Serving as Legislator McCaffrey’s Woman of Distinction from the 14th Legislative District was Judy
Skillen of Babylon Village. Judy is a lifelong resident of Babylon Village and known throughout the community as a person who facilitates positive change through volunteerism. Judy Skillen serves as President of the Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society and has worked to establish the Society as a modern steward of Babylon’s history.
Judy has also held positions on the Babylon Village Architectural Review Board, Downtown Revitalization Projects, Babylon Beautification Society, Babylon Village Historical Society and the Pilot Club of Babylonwhere as a former president she chaired the Start School Right Program. She has been instrumental in bringing countless projects to fruition such as the Robert Moses Statue, the Annual Argyle Country Fair, the Village Fountain Restoration,
County Officials Present Woman of Distinction Award to Judy Skillen” - From Left to Right: Twila Silverman, Chairperson, S.C. Women’s Advisory Commission; Stacey Caggiano, Director, Office of Women’s Services; Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey; Woman of Distinction Judy Skillen; and County Executive Ed Romaine.
the Bayman Statue, and has served on various community committees such as the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Remembrance, the Town of Babylon 150th Anniversary Celebration, the dedication and restoration
of the Ralph Scordino Falls, and the Annual Village of Babylon Tree Lighting and Wassail Bowl!
For her efforts, Judy Skillen has received the Nathaniel Conklin Award, was named a New York
State Woman of Distinction in 2008, received the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Babylon Rotary Club, and was named Grand Marshal of the Village’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade!
A lifelong member of the
First Presbyterian Church of Babylon, Judy Skillen also serves there as a Deacon and Elder.
Outside Babylon, Judy Skillen is a retired Special Education teacher and administrator, having served the West Babylon School District for thirty-five years. She was awarded lifetime membership in the National PTA for her service and commitment to the field of education and has been inducted into the West Babylon Alumni Foundation Hall of Fame.
Said Legislator McCaffrey: “I have worked alongside Judy in a number of capacities since I became the Suffolk County Legislator representing the Village of Babylon. Her drive to serve her community is paramount, and her efforts to promote a historically conscious revitalization of the Village are deserving of tremendous gratitude.”
2025 MEMBERSHIP MEETING SCHEDULE
Thursday, March 27, 2025, 9 AM: Conklin House
Thursday, May 1, 2025 (April & May Meetings), 9 AM:
The Piermont - Volunteers who can stay after this quick meeting to help set up for the Annual Basket Raffle Auction would be very much appreciated!
Thursday, June 26, 2025, 6 PM: The Never Ending Story Book Store
Thursday, July 24, 2025, 9 AM: Positions Dance Studio
Thursday, August 28, 2025, 6 PM: TBD
Thursday, September 25, 2025, 9 AM: TBD
Thursday, October 30, 2025, 6 PM: TBD
Thursday, November 13, 2025, 9 AM: TBD
Thursday, December 11, 2025, 6 PM: TBD
EXOTIC WAREHOUSE
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organizations that assist with mental health issues, addiction, food insecurity, legal services, and other resources. She can also assist patrons in applying for government assistance
programs and following up on applications and inquiries with government entities. Stop in or make an appointment at: l.harvey@ babylonlibrary.org.
Songbirds of LI Tuesday, April 1,
Babylon Public Library
2:00pm – 3:30pm
Long Island has a wide variety of birds and the songbirds are some of the most beautiful to see and to hear. Using photos and recordings, Dianne Taggart (long time LI birder) will tell us all about the Songbirds of LI! Please register for this program.
Suffolk County Community College Information Table Thursday, April 3,
2:30pm – 5:30pm
A representative from Suffolk County Community College will be here to discuss the majors and programs they offer. Be sure to come prepared with any questions you may have! This is an information table, so no registration is required.
Fashion in Film Saturday, April 5, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Join Marsha Collock for a look at how Hollywood’s greatest costume designers influenced the world of fashion from the 1920s through the 1960s. From Adrian and Orry Kelly to Edith Head and Oleg Cassini, film has often been at the
forefront of fashion trends, not to mention a creator of beautiful and memorable wearable works of art. We will examine the work of the great costume designers and their unforgettable creations. Please register for this program.
ANTIPASTO
• Traditional Antipasto Platter
• Mozzarella Caprese Platter
• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter
FIRST COURSE
• Traditional Baked Ziti
• Penne alla Vodka
• Manicotti
• Stuffed Shells
• Traditional Meat or Cheese Lasagna
•
ANTIPASTO (Choose one)
• Traditional Antipasto Platter
• Mozzarella Caprese Platter
• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter
SALAD (Choose one)
• Crispy Green Garden Salad
• Traditional Caesar Salad
• String Bean Casserole
• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Berries
• String Bean Almondine
• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts
DESSERT (Choose one)
• Assorted Fresh Fruit Bowl
• Homemade Apple Pie
• 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
• String Bean Casserole
• String Bean Almondine
• Candied Sweet Potatoes MAIN COURSE (Choose one)
*8-10lb. avg. All meat comes raw, must be cooked.
• Candied Sweet Potatoes VEGETABLE (Choose two half trays)
• Sautéed Broccoli Garlic & Oil
• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts
BE AWARE • BE INFORMED • BE PROACTIVE
This complimentary informational presentation will cover the scams that are presently scamming our Senior Citizens. We welcome all Seniors and family members to join us. Refreshments will be o ered!
Charoset is part of the traditional Passover seder plate Passover
is steeped in tradition. Many of these traditions involve symbolic foods which tell the story of the Israelites and their miraculous exodus from Egyptian slavery. One such food is charoset (also spelled haroset), which symbolizes the mortar the Israelites used to build bricks when they were slaves in Egypt. Charoset is a fruit relish used on small sandwiches made from matzoh and bitter herbs. The bittersweet taste is supposed to teach the bitterness of bondage and the sweetness of freedom. Passover celebrants can make their own charoset by following this recipe, courtesy of Israel My Glory magazine.
Directions:
Makes 15 tablespoons
1 large apple, any variety 1⁄2 cup chopped nuts 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon cinnamon Small amount of lemon juice (optional)
The easiest method is to put the apples and nuts into a food processor and pulse until finely diced. Sprinkle enough lemon juice on the mixture to keep the apples from turning brown. Then mix in the other ingredients. Some people also mix in a little grape juice or wine. The recipe is very forgiving, so the measurements do not have to be exact.
Babylon Junior-Senior High School Earns
A Top Spot On The AP Honor Roll
Babylon Junior-Senior High School earned a top spot on the 2024 Advanced Placement Honor Roll, achieving Gold with Access distinction by College Board. This recognition celebrates the high school’s commitment to promoting equitable access to Advanced Placement (AP) courses, fostering college readiness, and encouraging student participation in rigorous academic programs.
The Gold distinction signifies that at least 60% of the graduating cohort took at least one AP exam during high school, at least 35% scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, and at least 4% took five or more AP exams, including at least one in ninth or 10th grade. Additionally, the school received
the AP Access Award, a special recognition granted to just 1,962 schools for their effective strategies in providing AP opportunities to underrepresented student populations.
“College preparedness and AP exam participation are key components of the high school academic experience,”
said Superintendent of Schools Carisa Manza. “This recognition is a testament not only to the efforts of Principal Al Cirone, Assistant Principal Melissa Callahan, and Director of Guidance Dennis Murphy but also to all of our instructional staff who support our students on their path to success.”
Assemblyman Durso Announces Annual Pet Food Drive
New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park), in coordination with Long Island Cares, is inviting the community to participate in his annual Pet Food Drive to help families keep their pets out of shelters and remain at home where they belong.
Assemblyman Durso is asking
residents, community organizations and pet lovers to kindly donate unopened bags of dog and cat food, canned pet food and pet supplies. All items collected will be donated to Baxter’s Pet Pantry, operated by Long Island Cares, which provides free pet food and pet supplies to pet-owning families in need throughout Long
Island.
Donations can be dropped off through April 4, 2025 at Assemblyman Durso’s district office located at 512 Park Boulevard in Massapequa Park or at various other locations throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
For more information, call Durso’s district office at 516-541-4598.
Donations are being accepted at the following locations: Assemblyman Durso’s District Office: 512 Park Boulevard, Massapequa Park, NY
Petco 5500 Sunrise Hwy, Massapequa, NY
Babylon Public Library 24 S Carll Ave, Babylon, NY
North Babylon Public Library 815 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon, NY
West Babylon Public Library 211 NY-109, West Babylon, NY
West Islip Public
Library 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip, NY
Participating Schools (only accepting student donations): Massapequa High School, Massapequa
Bayview Elementary School, West Islip Manetuck Elementary
School, West Islip
Oquenock Elementary School, West Islip
Beach Street Middle School, West Islip
Udall Road Middle School, West Islip
West Islip High School, West Islip
Paul J Bellow Elementary School, West Islip
VE TERINARY RECEPTIONIST
Veterina ry Re ceptio nist/ Customer service Representat ive; Imm ediate P/t position Available Position will be approximatel y 18 to 20 hours a week Hours of Operation are 8am to 6pm. Day shift is 8am to 1pm and PM Shift is 1pm to 6pm, Monday thru Friday Satu rday 8am to 1pm We are a single docto r practice. Ex perience preferred Call: (631) 376-1746
Fax resume to: (631) 6613248
Email: RJCorona9 75@yah oo. com
GARAGES
Email: RJCorona9 75@yah oo. com Comp
•Tip s •Commission
LANDSCAPE DESIGNER (West Babylon, NY) Prep graphic representations or drawings of proposed plans or dsgns. Prep site plans, specs, or cost estimates for land dvlpmt. Analyze data on conditions such as site loc, drainage & soil, structure loc for envrmt’l reports & landscaping plans. Dvlp mktg materials, proposals, or presentations to generate new work opportunities. Research latest products, technology, or dsgn trends to stay current in the eld. Bachelor’s Deg in
Assemblyman Durso Announces Student Scholarship Opportunity
New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso announced that the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators is accepting applications for four $3,000 scholarships, two academic and two athletic.
Scholarships are available to residents of the 9th Assembly District who are currently enrolled in a higher education program or are high school seniors entering college. Students can access and complete the application by visiting: https://www.nyiacsl.org/apply-forscholarship-form
The application deadline is Friday, March 30, 2025.
“This is an excellent scholarship opportunity for high school seniors and college students in the 9th Assembly District who have worked hard, distinguished themselves from their peers and intend to pursue higher education,” said Assemblyman Durso. “With college costs continually rising, this is a chance to lessen the financial burden that is a concern for so many young people and their families. I encourage eligible students in my district to apply.” Applicants need not be of Italian American heritage to apply. Scholarship recipients will be announced in April and contacted directly. Winners should plan on being in Albany on Monday, May 19th to receive their award at our Italian-American Day Celebration.
For additional information, or to inquire if the student lives in the 9th Assembly District, please call Assemblyman Durso’s office at 516541-4598.
Did You Know?
Earth Day is now a global event, but its origins are somewhat humble. Prior to the 1960s, awareness of the link between public health and pollution was minimal. However, according to EarthDay.org, the 1962 publication of Silent Spring by American marine biologist, writer and conservationist Rachel Carson was a watershed moment for the environmental movement. The book did much to raise awareness of the effects of pollution on public health. Indeed, the publication of Carson's book proved a pivotal step toward the eventual establishment of Earth Day in 1970, which EarthDay.org characterizes as the dawn of the modern environmental movement. April 22, 2025 is Earth Day!
TRUE COLORS RUN
It’s never too early to talk to your teen about prescription opioid risks. As they gain independence, they face more temptations and peer pressure. Even if they don’t show it, they hear your concerns. Opioids are a group of drugs that include synthetic opioids like fentanyl, illegal drugs like heroin, and legal prescription pain relievers such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, and morphine.
WHY ARE YOUNG PEOPLE MISUSING PRESCRIPTION OPIOIDS?
Young people may misuse prescription opioids due to curiosity, peer pressure, or easy access often obtaining them from friends or family. Studies show that over 50% of non-medical users get these medications from a relative or friend.
KNOW THE RISKS AND HARMS OF PRESCRIPTION OPIOID MISUSE
Misusing prescription opioids, even short-term, can quickly lead to dependence sometimes in as little as five days. Combining them with alcohol or other drugs increases the risk of life-threatening consequences, including allergic reactions, breathing problems, coma, brain damage, and death
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Make sure to properly store and dispose of all medication. All medications that are expired, unused, or no longer needed should be removed from your home and disposed of immediately. Contact Lindy Cares for more information on how to dispose of unused or unwanted medication.
