April 10, 2024 West Babylon North

IS IT A STROKE?

WHAT TO KNOW & WHERE TO GO

BE FAST to recognize stroke symptoms and get help immediately—because prompt treatment is crucial.

At Northwell's South Shore University Hospital, our 24/7 team of experts—and prestigious Comprehensive Stroke Center certification—mean we can effectively treat even the most complex stroke events within minutes. So recovery is within reach.

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BALANCE off?

EYESIGHT changes?

FACE drooping?

ARM weakness?

SPEECH difficulty?

TIME to call 911, if “yes” to any of the above.

Maintaining A Lawn Routinely Roamed By Pets HOME & GARDEN

Vibrant, green lawns can draw attention to any landscape. Many homeowners toil for hours each week to ensure their lawns are pristine or invest in lawn care services to help maintain a yard if they do not have the time to do so themselves. While many treatments can be applied to lawns to help them thrive, animal waste is not among them. Pet owners who aspire to have beautiful lawns have to take a few extra steps to ensure lawns can persevere despite the presence of furry companions.

Reseed with a damage-resistant grass

There are many different types of grass, and some are more resilient than others. Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and Bermuda grass are just

some of the grass varieties that can capably handle pet traffic. If replacing the entire lawn is not possible, consider reseeding or addressing the areas that pets frequent.

Strengthen the root system

It may be tempting to cut the lawn short, particularly if dogs or cats like to nibble on long blades of grass, but that approach could be doing the lawn a disservice. According to The Home Depot, letting the lawn grow to at least three inches will keep moisture in the soil and prevent evaporation. That moisture will strengthen the roots, creating a healthier lawn.

Create pet paths

Various materials can be used in these high-

traffic areas to minimize the sights and signs of pet traffic. Mulch or crushed stone can establish these pet highways and look like intended features.

Set boundaries

Pet urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which can burn grass and turn it brown. It’s not possible to water down urine or pick up solid waste immediately every time a pet goes outdoors, so designate a pet-friendly spot for potty time. Use fencing or a dog run to separate this area and help mitigate “land mines” all over the lawn. Fencing also can keep pets out of vegetable gardens and away from potentially toxic plants.

Avoid chemical lawn treatments

When pets use the yard

and rest on the lawn, you’ll need to eliminate products that can be harmful to them. Choose all-natural fertilizers and weed and pest preventatives.

Look for alternatives

If maintaining a lawn with pets seems like an

uphill battle, consider swapping out your landscape with a variety of materials. Scale back on grass, and incorporate groundcover, hardscape materials like pea gravel, or extend the patio. Artificial turf also is an option, as it won’t brown

and wither. Some turf products can even be quickly and thoroughly cleaned with water.

It takes trial and error for pet parents to protect their lawns from the effects of having furry friends playing in the yard.

April Happenings

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 x211 or send events to natalieraccuglia@longislandmediagroup.com.

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

7:00PM

HISTORY OF THE FIRE ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE

The Seaford Historical Society will host Angela Reich from the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society. Her presentation will be about the history of the Lighthouse and it's historic rescues. Her book, "Shipwreck of Hopes", will be for sale that evening (cash only). Held at 3890 Waverly Ave in Seaford. Refreshments, raffles. $5 for nonmembers, free to members. For more info email mapfannon@verizon.net.

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

10:00AM-1:00PM

WHITE ELEPHANT AND BAG SALE

The Simpson United Methodist Church in Amityville is having a thrift shop sale. Pack a bag of clothes for $5 or buy some thrift shop treasures. New and used items are available for sale. Located at 30 Locust Avenue, Amityville. Call Mary for more information at 516-991-8098. Donations are accepted.

SATURDAY, APRIL 13

6:30PM

RADIO BINGO

The St. Rose of Lima Outreach in Massapequa is having a fun fundraiser. The event will take place in the school's all-purpose room. Admisson is $35 per person (over 21 please) and includes bingo, and refreshments. Tickets for raffle baskets and other prizes will be available for purchase. For more information call 516-798-6237.

7:00PM

SUPERMARKET WINGO AND CHINESE AUCTION

The Grace United Methodist Church is hosting a Supermarket WINGO and Chinese Auction. Doors open at 6PM. Admission is $10. For more information call 631-226-8690.

SUNDAY, APRIL 14

8:00AM-10:00AM

FLAPJACK FUNDRAISER

Support the West Islip Boy Scout Troop 95 for a Flapjack Fundraiser at Applebee's in East Islip. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $6 for children under 10. Tickets available at the door. For more information call 631-379-0577 or email mommymastro5@gmail.com. If you are unable to attend, donations are accepted by Venmo at @troop-95.

10:00AM-4:30PM

ALL KIDS FAIR

This year’s All Kids Fair will be held at Samanea New York Mall, formerly The Source Mall, at 1504 Old Country Road in Westbury. There will be various activities and for children such as face painting, balloon animals, ninja warrior obstacle course and more. Tickets can be purchased online, $5 for children ages 2 and up and adults, at www. AllKidsFair.com/Tickets. Tickets purchased at the door are $10 for children ages 2 and up and $5 for adults. Children 1 and younger are admitted at no charge. Visit their website at www.AllKidsFair.com for more information.

FRIDAY, APRIL 19

7:00PM

AUCTION/TRIVIA NIGHT

The Our Lady of Perpetual Help Blue Door Boutique is sponsoring an auction/trivia night at the school auditorium, 240 South Wellwood

Benefits Of Leisure Activities

Avenue, Lindenhurst. There will be a fun-filled night of trivia and exciting auctions. Admission is: $5 and includes an auction paddle and entrance to the trivia quiz. Admission tickets are available at the door. Proceeds benefit the Church. Email gtonness@optonline.net for more information.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

10:30AM

GARDENING CLASS

A series of gardening classes created to address everything that's going on in your garden at the time of the class. Held at Organics Today Farm in East Islip. Visit OT Farm on Facebook for more info or text 631-480-6497.

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

7:15PM-10:30PM JINGO

The Constantino Brumidi Lodge n Deer Park presents JINGO, a fun spin on traditional bingo where bingo balls are replaced with music beats. Doors open at 6:30 PM $30 per person Includes: 1 JINGO packet, crayons or markers on the table,dessert, coffee/ tea, cash bar, and door prize. For tickets or more information call Karen at 631-943-3622.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

8:30PM

DRIVE-IN MOVIE

A charity drive-in movie, screening Back To The Future, at Costello's Ace Hardware in Copiague. Attend for a donation of any amount. Proceeds benefit Kids Need More, helping families coping with life-threatening illnesses. Just show up or reserve your parking spot on their website at www.kidsneedmore.org/movie.

Leisure activities may be widely viewed as fun ways to fill up free time, but the benefits of leisure activities extend beyond beating boredom. A 2011 analysis published in the journal BBA Molecular Basis of Disease found that leisure activities have a positive impact on cognitive function and dementia. The analysis, conducted by researchers with the Aging Research Center in Stockholm who examined various studies regarding the relationship between certain activities and cognitive function, defined leisure activity as the voluntary use of free time for activities outside the home. After retirement, leisure time constitutes a large part of many retirees’ lives, and finding ways to fill that time is more beneficial than merely avoiding boredom. The researchers

behind the study concluded that the existing research is insufficient to draw any firm conclusions regarding the effects of certain types of leisure activities on the risk for dementia and cognitive decline, though they did note that multi-domain cognitive training has the potential to improve cognitive function in healthy older adults and slow decline in affected individuals. A multi-domain approach to cognitive training involves memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and map reading, among other activities. Aging adults who embrace activities that require the use of such skills may find that they’re not only finding stimulating ways to fill their free time, but increasing their chances of long-term cognitive health as well.

A Rundown On DIY Demos HOME & GARDEN

Homeowners looking to make improvements to their homes likely want to make such projects as budget-friendly as possible. After soliciting estimates from contractors, homeowners may seek to do some work themselves to cut costs. That is why many individuals handle demolition and other preparatory tasks before contractors start. There are important things to keep in mind when doing a demo.

• Prybars are your friend. These tools, sometimes called crowbars, can be used to remove nails or pull materials apart.

• Cover vents in the

space where you’re working. Construction dust can be sucked into the HVAC system and cause furnaces to clog. This also may cause the distribution of dust throughout the home.

• Use safety gear. Always wear safety goggles, gloves, boots, and other equipment as needed to remain safe.

• Get a power saw. Circular and reciprocating saws can cut through various materials, making faster work of demolition.

• Exercise caution when removing drywall. You don’t know what is behind the drywall,

including electric wires, so be careful when choosing a spot to make the first hole in the drywall.

• Get a trash container with a gate. You’ll save yourself some aches and pains by being able to fill a wheelbarrow and dump it into the container, rather than tossing debris over the top.

• Bust up heavy or bulky items. Cast iron tubs and shower surrounds can be heavy and difficult to move. Unless it’s a family heirloom, cut or break large items into pieces to remove them more easily.

Senator Martinez Joins Effort To

Journalists who have been looking for something good to report on may soon be able to turn the lens on themselves as the New York State Senate advances tax credits to local news outlets for the employment of community-oriented news journalists in its One-House budget proposal.

If included in the 2024 New York State budget, the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, sponsored by Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and co-sponsored by Senator Monica R. Martinez, would provide news organizations with a 50% refundable tax credit against the first $50,000 of each newsroom employee’s salary, up to $200,000 per outlet. This benefit would be limited to print and online newspapers and broadcasters with 100 employees or fewer that cover local community news.

“Local journalists tell the stories of America’s

communities,” said Senator Martinez. “They highlight the achievements of our neighbors, the successes of our school teams, and the efforts of our public officials. Unfortunately, with the contraction of local media over the past decade, these stories are being lost, and in their absence, misunderstanding and mistrust have taken hold. These narratives unite us, and without them, we will continue to drift further apart.”

According to a study issued by the Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications at Northwestern University, an average of 2.5 local newspapers per week ceased operations in 2023. This has resulted in over half of all U.S. counties now having limited access to reliable local news, and more than 200 counties are considered “news deserts.” In New York State, that decline has been even more pronounced, with 190 weekly newspapers closing down since 2004 in this, the media capital of the world.

ON THE RECORD TO

LOCAL REPORTING

Pew Research Center findings also support this trend, with its reporting stating that the share of U.S. adults following the news closely has been in decline, resulting in shrinking audiences for several older types of news media, such as local TV stations, most newspapers, and public radio.

The 2024 New York State budget plan, which may include the Senate’s recommended inclusion of this credit, is due by April 1st.

SAVE

- New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez discusses the importance of saving local journalism during the “Local Journalism Sustainability Act” press conference held on March 20, 2024 in Albany.

Apply Now For West Babylon’s 2024-2025 UPK Program

Applications to enter the West Babylon School District’s Universal Prekindergarten program lottery for the 202324 school year are now open. The Universal Prekindergarten program will be funded by a New York State grant, run by SCOPE and housed at Forest Avenue, John F. Kennedy, Santapogue and

Tooker Avenue elementary schools. Parents must provide transportation to and from the program. To be eligible, your child must turn 4 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2024. Applicants will be selected by a lottery to attend this full day program. In order to participate in this lottery, ALL completed forms and required documentation must be submitted via email to Central Registration at WBregistration@ wbschools.org or hand delivered to Central Administration Registration Office, 10 Farmingdale Road, West Babylon, NY 11704 or fax to (631) 376-7019 by 4:00 PM on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

Applications for West Babylon School District’s 2024-25 Universal Prekindergarten program lottery can be found on our website www. wbschools.org main page’s Announcements or Quick Links and under the Resources tab.

The lottery will take place virtually on Thursday, April 18, 2024,

at 10 a.m. The link for the lottery will be posted on the district website. The district is currently waiting for finalized numbers from New York State and does not have the exact number of UPK spots available.

Residents who are accepted into the program will need to complete additional documents

required by SCOPE.

Please contact Mr. Scott Payne, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction with any questions at 631-376-7020 or spayne@wbschools. org or Ms. Susan Curley, District Registrar at 631376-7022 or scurley@ wbschools.org.

Renovations That Help Sell Homes HOME & GARDEN

The adage “there’s a lid for every pot” suggests that, even in relation to the real estate market, there’s bound to be a buyer for every home on the market. Price is a significant variable in the minds of potential buyers, but there are additional factors that can affect the impression people get of a given home. Certain home features can tip the scales in favor of sellers. In fact, various renovations can help sell homes more readily. And these renovations need not cost a fortune. Putting a home on the market can be stressful, but these renovations may help it sell fast.

• A fresh coat of paint: Although painting is relatively inexpensive and a job that some doit-yourselfers can tackle, it’s not a task relished by many. Painting is messy, it takes time, and requires moving furniture. In fact, prepping a room for painting often is the toughest component of any painting job. But fresh coats of paint can create a strong first impression. Choose a neutral color and get painting. Jennie Norris, chairwoman for the International Association of Home Staging Professionals, says gray is a “safe” color that has been trending in recent years.

• Minor bathroom remodel: Remove dated wall coverings, replace fixtures, consider reglazing or replacing an old tub, and swap old shower doors for fast fixes in a bathroom. If there’s more room in the budget, replacing a tub, tile surround, floor, toilet, sink, vanity, and fixtures can cost roughly $10,500, says HGTV. You’ll recoup

an average of $10,700 at resale, making a minor bathroom remodel a potentially worthy investment.

• Redone kitchen: The kitchen tends to be the hub of a home. This room gets the most usage and attention of any space, and it’s a great place to focus your remodeling attention. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry estimates that homeowners can recover up to 52 percent of the cost of a kitchen upgrade upon selling a home. Buyers want a functional and updated kitchen. Trending features include drawer-style microwaves and dishwashers, commercial ranges, hidden outlets, and even wine refrigerators.

• Updated heating and cooling system: Better Homes and Gardens reports that homeowners may be able to recoup 85 percent of the cost of new HVAC systems when they

sell their homes. Heating, cooling and ventilation components are vital to maintain. You don’t want buyers to be taken aback by an older system, and many millennial buyers are not willing to overlook old mechanical systems.

• Fresh landscaping: A home’s exterior is the first thing buyers will see. If they pull up to a home with eyecatching landscaping and outdoor areas that are attractive yet functional, they’re more likely to be intrigued. Often buyers will equate a home that features an impressive exterior with upkeep inside as well.

The American Nursery Landscape Association says the average homeowner may spend $3,500 for landscaping.

Improving a home’s chances to sell quickly and at a higher price often comes down to making smart improvements that catch the eyes of buyers.

Cub Scout Troop 99 Recognized

CUB SCOUT TROOP 99 RECOGNIZED - The town board recently recognized Troop 99 as they prepared for their upcoming scouting adventure. The individuals are now poised to develop more advanced life skills on their journey toward achieving the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. As cub scouts mature, they seek greater challenges and responsibilities, where scouting plays a crucial role. Scouts will now concentrate on mastering intricate skills, spending more time exploring the world around them, and leadership roles within their troop. Congratulations to all who have successfully transitioned and are committed to progressing towards becoming Eagle Scouts. Notable attendees included Councilman Terence McSweeney, Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams, Guy Calla from Legislator McCaffery’s office, and the Town of Babylon Deputy Supervisor & Councilman Antonio Martinez.

WBPL WRITER’S CLUB Wednesday, April 10, 11 am-1 pm

WBA25 IN PERSON

Join us and other writers who share similar interests as we conduct an interactive workshop where you can share and discuss creative ideas. No experience necessary.

MIGHTY BIRCH ON WOOD

April 11-16 WBA101

VIRTUAL WITH KIT

Join Shirley Ruby virtually and learn how to make this beautiful decoration! Nonrefundable/transferable materials fee: $5.

BOOKS & BITES BOOK GROUP

Monday, April 15, 7-8 pm

WBA50 VIRTUAL

Join us for a Zoom book discussion. This month’s book is Better Living Through Birding by Christian Cooper. Copies of the novel are available at the Circulation desk upon registration or for download via Libby.

CHOCOLATE FONDUE

Monday, April 15, 7-8:30 pm

WBA602 IN PERSON

Join us and learn the art of chocolate fondue.

LEARN TO PLAY MAHJONG

Thursdays, April 25 – May 30, 1-2:30 pm

WBA203 IN PERSON

Join us to learn how to play Mahjong. Non-refundable/ transferable fee for the 6-week session: $12.

LET’S TALK ABOUT BOOKS

Thursday, April 25, 1:30-3:30 pm

WBA40 IN PERSON

Join the West Babylon Literary Club to meet and discuss a novel. This month’s book is Better Living Through Birding by Christian Cooper. Copies of the novel are available at the Circulation Desk upon registration or for download via Libby.

PAINT NIGHT: TEACUPS

Thursday, April 25, 6:45-8:30 pm

WBA103 IN PERSON

Join Kathy Reccardi and paint this beautiful painting. Non-refundable/transferable materials fee: $5.

INTRODUCTION TO ACUPUNCTURE

Monday, April 29, 7-8:30 pm

WBA204 IN PERSON

Babylon SD Honors Security Personnel

Babylon High Schoolers Take Part In Compassion Without Borders

Babylon JuniorSenior High School students took part in the Compassion Without Borders leaderships conference late last year. The conference seeks to nurture leaderships skills, foster innovation, and empower students to become agents of change in their communities. This year’s Compassion Without Borders event took place at Centereach High School in the Middle Country School District.

The goal of Compassion Without Borders is to provide students with the tools, knowledge and inspiration needed to shape the world around them and become the leaders of tomorrow. Students have the potential to make a lasting impact; the conference looks to provide them with the guidance needed to do so.

Compassion Without Borders is organized by the Suffolk County High School Principals’

Association, and it invites all high school students to take part. This year’s theme was Moving Ahead–Stronger Than Ever; the Babylon Junior-Senior High School students who took part were Riley Altman, Lei’onna Arrington, Kathleen Channing, Patrick Costa, Grace Keane, Shayden Kenedy, Jackson Maurino, Owen Morris, Sonia Romano and Dilan Vergano.

The Babylon School District recognized security guard Tom Parson for his help while police conducted an investigation near the Babylon Memorial Grade and Elementary schools in early March.

Mr. Parson was vital to maintaining a sense of normalcy at the two schools despite a heavy police presence nearby. He was able to rely on his experience as a Suffolk County police officer, now retired, to work with the investigators, inform District administration of any potential disruptions the investigation might cause, and modify daily routines to safeguard students and shield them from potentially disturbing or disruptive activity. He also ensured that media presence, including television cameras and reporters, did not stray too close to the schools and disrupt instruction.

“Mr. Parson was essential in helping us keep our students in the classrooms, learning and going about their days in as close to a normal setting as possible despite the upsetting and disturbing circumstances,” said Superintendent of Schools Carisa Manza. “We wanted to make sure his service and help did not go unnoticed.”

COMPASSION WITHOUT BORDERS - The event is aimed at empowering students to become agents of change in their communities. Photo courtesy of the Babylon Union Free School District

Babylon security guard Tom Parson with Superintendent of Schools Carisa Manza. Photo courtesy of the Babylon Union Free School District

Tips To Revitalize A Garden This Spring HOME & GARDEN

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that pays a host of significant dividends. Many people love gardening because it allows them to spend time outdoors, and that simple pleasure is a notable benefit of working in a garden. However, the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture

notes that gardening provides many additional benefits, including helping people get sufficient levels of exercise, reduce stress, and improve mood. With so much to gain from gardening, it’s no wonder people look forward to getting their hands dirty in the garden each spring.

As the weather warms up, consider these tips to help bring a garden back to life.

• Discard the dead weight. Winter can take its toll on a garden, even in regions where the weather between December and early spring is not especially harsh. Discard dead plants that have lingered into spring and prune any perennials that need it. Branches that fell during winter storms also should be removed at this point if they have not previously been discarded.

• Test the soil. Soil testing kits can be purchased at local garden centers and home improvement retailers. Such tests are inexpensive and can reveal if the soil needs to be amended to help plants thrive.

• Mulch garden beds. Mulching benefits a garden by helping soil retain moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Various garden experts note that mulching in spring can prevent weed seeds from germinating throughout spring and summer. That means plants won’t fight weeds for water when the temperature gets warmer. It also means gardeners won’t have to spend time pulling weeds this summer.

• Inspect your irrigation system. Homeowners with in-ground irrigation systems or above-ground systems that utilize a drip or soaker function can inspect the systems before plants bloom. Damaged sprinkler heads or torn lines can deprive

plants of the water they need to bloom and ultimately thrive once the weather warms up.

• Tune up your tools. Gardening tools have likely been sitting around gathering dust since fall. Serious gardeners know that tools can be expensive, so it pays to protect that investment by maintaining tools. Sharpened pruners help make plants less vulnerable to infestation

and infection. Wellmaintained tools like shovels and hoes also make more demanding gardening jobs a little bit easier, so don’t forget to tune up your tools before the weather warms up.

It’s almost gardening season, so gardeners can start on the necessary prep work to ensure their gardens grow strong and beautiful this spring.

Calabrese

Marsala

Cacciatore

Francese

Marsala

• Chicken Piccata

• Chicken Parmigiana

• Eggplant Parmigiana

• Eggplant Rollatini

• Farfalle Primavera

• Gnocchi Bolognese

• Grilled Pork Tenderloin

• Manicotti

• Meatballs in Sauce

• Mussels Marinara

• Mussels Garlic & Oil

• Orecchiette Broccoli Rabe

• Penne alla Vodka

• Pork Filet Salpino

• Rigatoni Bolognese

• Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

• Sausage & Peppers

• Sausage & Potatoes

• Stuffed Chicken

• Stuffed Rigatoni

• Stuffed Shells

• Tortellini Alfredo

Antipasto (Choose One)

• Antipasto Platter

• Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Cheese Platter

• Grilled Vegetable Platter

Salad (Choose One)

• Garden Salad

• Caesar Salad

• Giardinastro

• Spinach & Goat Cheese

• Arugula Salad

Main Course (Choose one per ten people. Must choose one pasta dish.)

Pasta (must choose one)

• Cavatelli Calabrese

• Farfalle Primavera

• Gemelli alla Gabriella

• Linguine w/ Clam Sauce

• Linguine ai Frutti di Mare

• Orzo Mediterranean

• Penne alla Vodka

• Penne Fantasia

• Shrimp Mia Poultry

• Chicken Adriana

• Chicken w/ Sauteed Broccoli & Sundried Tomatoes

• Chicken Cacciatore

• Chicken Francese

• Chicken Grigio

• Chicken Marsala

• Chicken Parmigiana

• Chicken Sorrentino

• Grilled Turkey London Broil

• Roasted Turkey Breast

• Stuffed Chicken

• Brussels Sprouts

• Butternut Squash

• Eggplant Parmigiana

• Eggplant Rollatine

• Grilled Asparagus

• Grilled Potatoes

• Rice Primavera

• Roasted Potatoes

• Spaghetti Squash

From the Land

• Boneless Spare Ribs

• Grilled Pork Tenderloin

• Meatballs

• Pork Chop Caprese

• Pork Filet Salpino

• Sausage & Peppers

• Veal Marsala

Starch & Vegetables

• Veal Parmigiana

• Veal Scallopine

From the Sea

• Grilled Salmon

• Maryland Crab Cakes

• Mussels Margherita

• Mussels w/ Garlic & Oil

• Shrimp Oregenata

• Shrimp Parmigiana

• Stuffed Flounder Filet

• Stuffed Shrimp

• Shrimp Scampi

• Grilled USDA Prime Flat Iron Steak