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GRADUATES HONORED - The importance of local law enforcement was on full display as the Town of Islip Law Enforcement Academy celebrated its newest class of graduates. The ceremony marked not only the completion of rigorous training, but also the beginning of a lifelong commitment to public service and community protection. Among the graduates were three new Town of Babylon Park Rangers, Austin Ciejka, Richard Phipps, and Ernest Michel, recognized for their dedication and perseverance throughout the academy. In addition, local resident Joseph Vaccaro of North Babylon graduated from the peace officer program in connection with his role as a Smithtown fire marshal.

A Powerful New Memoir Explores Love, Waiting, And The Unspoken Realities Of Caregiving

And I Wait…, a deeply moving debut memoir, offers an intimate look into the emotional landscape of caregiving, resilience, and the quiet moments that shape us. Through honest and reflective storytelling, And I Wait… captures the experience of standing beside a loved one through illness—where hope, uncertainty, and strength coexist. With a voice that is both compassionate and unflinching, the author invites readers into the spaces often left unspoken: the waiting rooms, the pauses, and the life that exists between before and after.

This memoir resonates with caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone who has faced the complexity of loving someone through difficult transitions. It challenges the notion that there is “nothing more to be done,” offering instead a perspective rooted in presence, dignity, and enduring connection.

And I Wait… is now available on Amazon.

For more information, please visit: https://a.co/d/0aCvJFMM

About the Author

The author brings a unique perspective shaped by both Continued On 3

How Much Is Your Time Worth?

By JoAnn Cilla

I have been thinking about this question for the past few weeks. I asked friends and fellow business owners the question, and most of them said they never really thought about it. So, I will ask you. How much is your time worth? Not your salary, not your hourly rate on paper, but the value of an hour of your life?

Finding the answer to this simple question can mean the difference between success and failure in many areas of life and business. We all get the same 24 hours in a day, yet we treat those hours very differently. Most people treat time like it’s money. Some invest their hours; others spend their hours. Unfortunately, too

many people waste their precious time without even realizing it.

If you earn $100,000 a year, a rough breakdown might suggest your time is worth about $50 an hour. But that number is misleading. It only reflects what someone is willing to pay you, not what your

time is worth. Your real value is tied to how you choose to use it.

I learned that time can be separated into three distinct parts: earning, building, and living.

Earning time is what most people focus on. It’s the hours spent working and generating income. This is where most people come up with their “hourly rate.”

A Powerful New Memoir

Continued From 2

personal experience and a deep understanding of care, illuminating the emotional truths that connect us all.

Dr. MaryAnn Fragola, Doctor of Nursing Practice, is Chief of Wellness Services at New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, where she specializes in Supportive and Palliative care. For more than twenty-five years, she has guided patients and families through serious illness, focusing on dignity, comfort, and quality of life.

her writing, she remains committed to helping patients and families navigate illness with honesty, compassion, and presence. She hopes this story helps caregivers recognize that many of the thoughts and emotions they experience during illness and grief are more normal than they realize. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys reading, time with her family, and the loyal companionship of her German shepherds.

Building time is the time you invest in skills, relationships, and ideas. Reading, learning, creating, and networking are activities that may not pay you back immediately, but they dramatically increase your future earning power and freedom.

Finally, there’s Living Time. These are the moments spent with family, and friends creating personal experiences. Ironically, this is often the most valuable time of all, yet it’s the easiest to neglect. “You can always make more money, but you can’t make more time.”

So how do you determine what your time is worth? Start by asking better questions: Is this activity moving me forward or keeping me stuck? Would I pay someone else to do this? Am I wasting my time with this person or doing this job?

Effective people guard and protect their time. They delegate what doesn’t require their unique abilities. They say no more often than yes. And they align their time with what matters most, not just what feels urgent.

The key to changing your patterns is to stop thinking of time as something you “have” and start thinking of it as something you “invest.” Every hour has a return, either positive or negative.

In the end, your time is worth exactly what you decide it is. Make good decisions!

And I Wait… was born from a deeply personal experience. When her father was diagnosed with cancer, Dr. Fragola found herself on the other side of medicine — not as the clinician, but as the daughter. Writing this memoir became part of her own healing and a way to give voice to the complex emotions caregivers often carry but rarely express. Through her work and

JOANN CILLA

From The First Color TV’s in the 1960’s To The First Flat Screens In The 1990’s From Cable TV In The 1980’s To The Streaming Services In The 2000’s

From Rotary Phones To Pay Phones To Flip Phones To Smart Phones From FM Radio To Satellite Radio From 8 Track & Cassette To CD’s

Through All These Changes, South Bay’s Neighbor Newspapers Has Been Proudly Publishing Since 1953 And Continues To Bring The Local Communities News From Schools, Organizations, Libraries And Local Businesses!

Local Law Enforcement Graduates Honored For Commitment To Community Safetyare Important

The importance of local law enforcement was on full display as the Town of Islip Law Enforcement Academy celebrated its newest class of graduates. The ceremony marked not only the completion of rigorous training, but also the beginning of a lifelong commitment to public service and community protection.

Local law enforcement officers play a critical role in maintaining safety, order and trust within neighborhoods. As first responders, they provide immediate assistance during emergencies while offering reassurance to residents in times of need. Beyond enforcement, officers work

to build strong relationships within the community— helping to prevent crime through education, outreach and engagement. Their presence fosters a sense of security that allows neighborhoods to grow and thrive.

Among the graduates were three new Town of Babylon Park Rangers, Austin Ciejka,

24 S. Carll Ave. Babylon, NY

Erin White 631.669.1624

***

ADULT PROGRAMS

Social Work Intern

Wednesdays, April 15, 22, & 29, 4:00pm - 7:00pm Fridays, April, 17, & 24, 11:00am – 2:00pm

Saturday, April 18, & 25, 10:00am – 4:00pm Sundays, April, 19, & 26, 1:00pm – 4:00pm Meet with our social work intern for referrals to community organizations and agencies for mental health services, food insecurity, legal assistance, and more. Our intern can also assist with applications for government sponsored programs and services (unemployment benefits,

housing, SNAP, etc.), including following up on applications. Drop in during scheduled hours or email for an appointment at: socialworker@babylon library.org.

Writer’s Workshop Tuesday, April 21

5:30pm – 7:45pm Babylon Library’s Writer’s Workshop is an ongoing program that usually meets two Tuesday evenings a month. New and experienced writers are welcome to join at any time. Feel free to bring any works in progress to share and discuss. Adults only, please. Registration is required.

Paint Night: April in Paris Wednesday, April 15,

Richard Phipps, and Ernest Michel recognized for their dedication and perseverance throughout the academy. In addition, local resident Joseph Vaccaro of North Babylon graduated from the peace officer program in connection with his role as a Smithtown fire marshal.

Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer praised the graduates, saying, “These men and women have answered the call to serve, and our communities are stronger because of it. Their commitment to public safety and community engagement reflects the very best of what local law enforcement represents.”

Councilman and Public Safety Chairman Terence McSweeney also commended the class, adding, “This is a proud moment not just for the graduates, but for the entire Town of Babylon. We are especially proud of our new Park Rangers, who have worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone. Their dedication to protecting our residents and natural spaces will make a lasting impact.”

He added, “I would also like to thank Commissioner Gerard Gigante for his

Babylon Public Library

6:00pm – 7:30pm

Join local artist Kathy Reccardi as she teaches participants step-by-step how to paint an image of spring blossoms in Paris. No painting experience needed. A non-refundable $5.00 fee is due at registration. This is an inperson program and takehome kits are not available.

Friday Films:

Song Sung Blue Friday, April 17, 2:00pm - 4:00pm We will be watching the film Song Sung Blue (2025). Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak in their musical journey

leadership as Commissioner of Public Safety. His experience and knowledge have not gone unnoticed by our residents.”

Officials extended congratulations to all members of the graduating class, recognizing the achievement as both a personal milestone and a meaningful step toward strengthening public safety across the region.

As the graduates begin

their careers, community leaders emphasized the importance of their role and encouraged them to carry forward the values of service, integrity and professionalism.

“Be safe out there, and best of luck in your careers,” officials said, offering a final message of support to the newest members of the law enforcement community.

together. Starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Rated PG-13. Running time: 132 minutes. No registration required.

TEEN PROGRAMS

Teens Dungeons & Dragons Wednesdays, April 15, & 29

5:30pm–7:30pm

Join us in the library for Dungeons & Dragons! Build a character, choose your weapons, and lay waste to nasty critters with a roll of the dice. New and experienced players welcome! Grades 6-12. Registration required.

“ABC” Safe Boating Course Saturdays, April 18 & 25 10:00am – 2:00pm

The “ABC” course will give you a New York State Safe Boating Certificate good for both boats and Jet Skis and you will be in compliance with Brianna’s Law. This course is the most comprehensive, single-source boating course available today that provides the skills needed to enjoy your time on the water and boat safely with confidence. This course consists of two in-person classes, with a final exam given at the end of the course. You must attend both classes. This course is open to adults and teens 12 and up. Registration is required. All participants must pay a non-refundable fee of $30.00 for tuition and course materials, payable by cash or check

at the first class. This fee is fully reimbursable upon successful completion of the final exam for boaters living on the South Shore of LI between Massapequa and West Islip, complements of The Captree Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Teens Plant Bags Community Service Tuesday, April 21, Wednesday, April 22, & Thursday, April 23 3:00pm – 7:00pm Drop in to the teen area to decorate the paper bags that we use to collect veggies and herbs from our plant tower! Earn community service hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Grades 6-12.

APRIL HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, APRIL 16th

7:00PM

THE BAY SHORE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING

At the Bay Shore - Brightwaters Public Library, 1 South Country Rd., in Brightwaters. The guest speaker will be Arthur Frischman, Long Island Sign Guy. The meeting is open to the public at no charge. Refreshments will be served. Learn more at: https:// www.bayshorehistoricalsociety.org/ programs-news

SATURDAY, APRIL 18th

12:00PM-2:30PM EXPO & HEALTH FAIR

The Farmingdale Community Summit Council, Inc. is thrilled to announce the Farmingdale Community Expo and Health Fair, a free event open to all members of the community at the Farmingdale Public Library. An afternoon of connection, learning, and fun! For more information, please call 516-454-6813, or website: FarmingdaleSummit.org, email: farmingdalesummitmail.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 17th

7:00PM

ANNUAL POLYNESIAN SHOW

Doors open at 6:00PM

Spotlighting “Legends by Lantern Light” The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum Presents Annual Polynesian Show World Inﬂuences in Hawaiian Dance. Free Admission. *Children must be accompanied by an adult* 101 Church Stree in Kings Park. For more information, please visit https://kpheritagemuseum.net/

SATURDAY, APRIL 18th

9:30AM-12:30PM

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 information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

WHOLE SELF WELLNESS FAIR

Simpson United Methodist Church, 30 Locust Ave. in Amityville.Come and explore the body, mind, and spirit connection with professionals from various ﬁelds of interest. For more information, please call Mary at 516-991-8098

SUNDAY, APRIL 19th

10:00AM-4:30PM

ALL KIDS FAIR

A full day of amazing exhibitors, activities and classes! At the Hilton Long Island/Huntington (AKA the Huntington Hilton) in Melville! Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Rd, in Melville. Mostly inside but partially outside - including food trucks, petting zoo, and a few other surprises. For more information, visit https://www.allkidsfair.com/

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22nd

7:00PM-9:00PM

"THE BATTLE OF LONG ISLAND"

Author Bill Bleyer will discuss "The Battle of Long Island", Long Island's pivotal role in the American Revolution. Learn about the single-day engagement, the British occupation and the resilience of Long Islander's. The program is held at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Ave. in Islip. Free and open to the public. For more information, please call 631559-2915, www.isliphamlethistory. org

THURSDAY, APRIL 23rd

7:00PM

"STUMP THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY"

All Welcome to the Wantagh Preservation Society's "Stump the Historical Society" night! Bring your

questions, this will make for an educational fun, interactive meeting. As the saying goes, "you're never to old to learn something new." Place: Wantagh Preservation Society Museum, 1700 Wantagh Ave. in Wantagh. Light refreshments will be served. For more information: homebound315@gmail.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 25th

Doors open at 5:00PM Tournament starts at 7:00PM

TEXAS HOLD’EM POKER TOURNAMENT

The Copiague Fire Department –Vigilant Engine Company is hosting its First Annual Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament, and they're inviting the community to come out and support a great cause. Seats are limited, and early registration is encouraged. Pay by April 20th receive bonus chips. All proceeds support the efforts of the Copiague Fire Department and help them to continue serving the community. For more information and registration visit: www. vigilantenginecompany.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 26th

1:00PM-4:00PM

EARTH DAY COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP

The Levittown Community Council presents Earth Day Community Clean-Up (Rain Date: April 27th)

Location Meet-Up: Veterans Memorial Park, Hempstead Turnpike & Shelter Lane. Bring your own rakes, brooms, etc. ALL participants under 14 MUST be accompanied by an adult For more information contact: email: levittowncouncil@yahoo.com facebook: @ levittowncommunity councilinc

Help Wanted

LOOKING FO R HE LP WITH WE IGHT LOSS OR EN ERGY?

Can I tell you about FITTEAM FIT that he lped me lose 35 lbs?

631-383-1087

UTILITY PERSON

for Stee l Warehouse in Lindenhurst.

Driver's License Needed .

Great position for a retired pers on.

631- 587- 8670

Please email your resume to Jobs@SimsSteel.com

**CASH FOR CARS** Sell Yo ur Car No w! Get Over Trade In Value!

*Top Dollar Paid

*Highest Pa yout *A ny Condition *Collision Damage OK

*Mecha nical Prob lems OK *Car Lo ans Pa id Off

*Leased Car Buyouts

29 W. Sunrise Hwy. Lind enhu rst (next to IHOP)

631-226-2277 516-535-9700

CASHFOR CARS LONG ISLAND.NET

BUYING? SEL LING? RENT ING?

Place your ad in the Classi fieds 631 -2 26-2636 Ext. 27 6

SELLING? RENTING?

Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276

BASEMENTS, ATTICS, GARAGES CLEANED OUT

SHEDS,DECKS POOLS, ET C DEMOLISHED AND REMOVE

TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you. GET YOUR AD NOTICED! Ca ll Our Classifi ed Dept. 631-226-2636 press “2”

HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?

Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276

THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS and not sure how to get started? Call today and one of our experienced Sa les Representatives will assist you. We c an help you with a lin e ad or a di splay ad. Let 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

Get Results Call Classifed 631-226-2636 Pres s “2”

TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.