DANCE DYNAMICS
SCHOOL OF NATIONAL DANCE CHAMPIONS
REGISTRATION DATES & TIMES
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY AUGUST 11TH, 12TH & 13TH 6-8:30PM
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15TH 11-2PM
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY AUGUST 18TH, 19TH & 20TH 6-8:30PM
SATURDAY AUGUST 22ND 11-2PM
CLASSES START THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH
For More Information Or To Register!
Blue And Gold Luncheon Honors Top 25 In The Class Of 2026
The West Babylon School District celebrated the outstanding achievements of the Class of 2026’s top 25 graduating seniors during the annual Superintendent’s Blue and Gold Luncheon held on June 17 in the board of education room.
Hosted by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly, the special event
brought together district administrators, the honorees and a faculty member selected by each student as someone who made a meaningful impact on their educational journey.
Dr. Farrelly congratulated the students on reaching this significant milestone and recognized not only their academic accomplishments but also their dedication to their school community. She acknowledged not only the students but the influential teachers who were there to offer their support during the way.
had the opportunity to acknowledge the faculty members who supported and inspired them throughout their educational careers.
During the luncheon, Dr. Farrelly recognized each student individually and presented them with a special gift. Students also
The celebration concluded with the top 25 students gathering for a final group photo as they prepare to graduate and begin the next chapter of their lives.
Congratulations to the
top 25 students of the Class of 2026 (in order starting at No. 25): Larisa Filpo Vinas, Antonella DeGennaro, Mariana Figueroa, Kaden LaVecchia, Sophia DiCiero, Rohaan Bajaj, Elizabeth Levy, Jillian Goldberg, Matteo Giudice , Evangelyn Rivera Bonilla, Maria Moreno Lopez, Lily Boggia, Kylah Hicklin, Giovanna Miranda, Daira Navarro, Nandini Ramesh, Natalie Tiedemann, Grace Simaren, Anthony Mastrangelo, Erin Fider, Joel Colas, Melanie Jastrzebski, Saad Syed, Dheera Misra and Julian Cruz.
Local Scout Earns Eagle Rank Through Service Project Supporting Pediatric Cancer Patients
Family, friends, fellow Scouts, and community leaders recently gathered to celebrate a significant milestone as Joseph Scala of Troop 399 achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor attainable in Scouting.
Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer and Councilman Terence McSweeney were honored to attend Joseph’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor and recognize his dedication to service, leadership, and perseverance.
For his Eagle Scout project, Joseph assembled 50 comfort care packages for pediatric patients receiving treatment in the Hematology/Oncology Unit at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The packages included items designed to provide comfort, distraction, and anxiety relief for patients ranging in age from toddlers to teenagers, including fuzzy
blankets, stuffed animals, reusable water bottles, playing cards, stress balls, and other thoughtful gifts.
What made the project especially meaningful was Joseph’s personal connection to the cause. Having been a patient at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital himself, he remembered receiving a similar comfort package during a difficult time and wanted to pay that kindness forward to children currently undergoing treatment.
“Joseph’s project is a remarkable example of compassion in action,” said Supervisor Rich Schaffer. “He took a personal experience and transformed it into an opportunity to help others facing similar challenges. His commitment to service and his desire to give back embody the very best qualities of an Eagle Scout.”
Joseph’s Scouting journey began in second grade
and grew into a lifelong passion that helped shape his character and leadership abilities. Through years of camping trips, community service projects, and leadership roles, including serving as Senior Patrol Leader, he developed the skills and values that have prepared him for future success.
“Earning the rank of Eagle Scout requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to serving others,” said Councilman Terence McSweeney. “Joseph’s project speaks volumes about the type of young man he is. His willingness to help children battling serious illnesses, while drawing from his own experiences, is truly inspiring. He represents the very best of our community, and I have no doubt he will continue making a positive impact wherever life takes him.”
As he graduates from high school, Joseph plans to attend Long Island University to study Nursing, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner. Inspired by those who helped him throughout his own medical journey, he hopes to dedicate
his career to caring for others.
Troop 399 proudly celebrated Joseph as its 83rd Eagle Scout, recognizing not only his accomplishment but also the lasting impact his service project will have on countless children and
families facing difficult circumstances. His achievement stands as a testament to the Scout motto, “Be Prepared,” and serves as an inspiring example of leadership, service, and compassion for future generations.
Photo courtesy of West Babylon School District
LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
ROOFING AND SIDING SPECIALS
AUGUST HAPPENINGS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7th
10:00AM-1:00PM
MEET THE AUTHOR
Romance/ Women's Fiction Author Effie Kammenou at Jack Jack's Coffee House 223 Deer Park Ave. in Babylon. Effie Kammenou writes emotionally rich women's fiction and contemporary romance with historical elements inspired by Greek heritage, close-knit families, and second chances at love. For more information, please call 917 577 3411, misslaffsalot48@gmail.com
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th
11:00AM-5:00PM
CLAMFEST
A Clamfest will be held at the Sayville United Methodist Church. The church is located at the corner of Main Street and Greene Avenue. The menu includes clam chowder, baked clams, hot dogs, hamburgers and more! Come on down and enjoy yourself! For more information, please call 631-589-0624
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th
10:00AM–9:30PM
Grand Entry Ceremonies: NOON & 7:00PM
SUNDAY, AUGUST 9th
10:00AM–5:00PM Grand Entry Ceremony: NOON
44th ANNUAL PAUMANAUKE POW WOW
The Paumanauke Native American Festival Inc., in partnership with the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA) and the Town of Babylon, proudly presents the 44th Annual Paumanauke Pow Wow, taking place
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
at Tanner Park in Copiague. The Pow Wow offers an opportunity for the public to experience and learn about Native American culture while supporting an important cause. Proceeds from the event benefit the Native American Scholarship Fund. No advance ticket sales. Cash only at the gate. Rain or shine. For more information, visit www.paumanauke. org or call 516-495-6076. Information is also available through the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts at www.babylonarts.org or 631-587-3696.
MONDAY, AUGUST 10th
7:00PM
SWINGTIME BIG BAND
Swingtime Big Band is bringing the Swing Era to life at the Long Island Maritime Museum to celebrate America's 250th Birthday. This 20-piece swing band will be performing music from the Great American Songbook in threedimensional sound, authentically recreating the style, musicality, and essence of each iconic big band that originated in these song hits. This concert is FREE and will take place at the historic Long Island Maritime Museum in West Sayville. Bring a chair or a blanket and enjoy a free performance under the stars! For more information, please call 631-888-3525
TUESDAY, AUGUST 11th
7:00PM
REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
7150 Republic Airport, Room 201, in Farmingdale. For more
information, please call 631-7527707 x6109 or email: contactus@ republicairport.net
SUNDAY, AUGUST 16th
4:30PM
LUAU NIGHT
Featuring Hawaiian Entertainment, Dinner, Music by DJ and Dancing $45 includes a Buffet Dinner, Soda, Dessert, and Coffee/Tea. Cash Bar. Raffles. Tix & Info: Antoinette @ 516-526-6777. Brumidi Lodge Sons & Daughters of Italy in America 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park
EVERY THURSDAY thru AUGUST 23rd
6:45PM-10:00PM BINGO THURSDAY NIGHTS At Knights of Columbus, 78 Hempstead Ave. in Lynbrook. $2000 Cash Prizes. Doors open 5:00pm. - Games Start 6:45pm. We have computers!!! For more information, please call 516-887-2228
EVERY SATURDAY thru OCTOBER 24th
9:00AM-1:00PM
AMITYVILLE FARMER'S MARKET
The Amityville Farmer's Market runs Saturday mornings on the Great Lawn at 25 Broadway in Amityville, next to the historic First United Methodist Church. Amityville Farmer’s Market is sponsored by the Bay Village Civic Association. There will be a local farmer, and many vendors. For more information, contact amityfarmers market @ gmail.com or bayvillagecivic@aol. com.
SUMMER SAVINGS
Kids Coloring Contest!
Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to the Long Island Aquarium All entries must be submitted by August 23. Winners will be notified on August 24. One entry per person.
Please mail your submission to:
Long Island Media Group
Attn: Marketing 565 Broadhollow Road Suite 3 Farmingdale, NY 11735
Name: Age: __ Phone Number: Email address: Town:
Would you like to
Yes: No:
The ex officio student member position provides a
body and
A rising senior at Babylon High School, Love brings to the Board a strong record of academic achievement, student leadership, and school involvement. Her coursework includes a rigorous schedule of Advanced Placement classes: AP Biology, AP United States History, AP Precalculus, AP Research, AP English Language and Composition, AP World History, and AP Seminar. Beyond the classroom, Love is actively engaged in student government and school life. She currently serves as president of Student Council and treasurer of Class Cabinet, and is a member of several honor societies. These roles have allowed her to sharpen her leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while serving as an advocate for her fellow students.
Love is also a three-sport athlete, participating in soccer, basketball, and lacrosse. She credits athletics with teaching her resilience, composure under pressure, and the value of teamwork — lessons she says have shaped some of her most meaningful high school experiences.
In her free time, Love enjoys reading, spending time at the beach, and being with friends. During the summer months, she works as a camp counselor, where she mentors and encourages younger children — a role that reflects her commitment to service and community.
Love says she draws inspiration from a quote by Confucius: “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” The quote, she said, “Encourages me to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and I hope to carry that mindset into my role on the Board of Education as I represent the voices of my fellow students.”
Street Dedication Recognizes Charlie Bunger Sr.’s Lasting Legacy
Family, friends, elected officials, and members of the local surfing community gathered to celebrate the dedication of Charlie Bunger Sr. Way, extending from Deer Park Avenue to Totten Place, honoring a man whose passion for surfing helped shape both an industry and generations of Long Islanders.
Long before serving on the Babylon Town Board, Councilman Terence McSweeney was one of countless customers who grew up visiting Bunger Surf Shop.
“Before I was a Councilman, I was a customer,” McSweeney said. “Bunger Clothing has always been a family favorite, and like so many others, we’ve made countless trips there over the years. It was an incredible honor to celebrate Charlie Bunger Sr. and recognize everything he and his family have meant to our community.”
Charlie Bunger Sr.
began shaping surfboards in the basement of his home in 1961 at just 20 years old. What started as a small operation quickly evolved into one of the most respected names in surfing. From his first shop in Copiague to the iconic Bunger Surf Shop in Babylon Village, the Bunger family built not only a successful business but also an enduring legacy. Today, the shop proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest surf company store in North America to have never changed ownership or location.
Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer said Charlie Bunger’s story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that has long defined the Town of Babylon.
“Charlie Bunger turned a passion into an institution that has become part of Babylon’s identity,” Schaffer said. “For more than six decades, the Bunger family has inspired generations of surfers, supported our local economy, and remained deeply committed to our community. This street dedication ensures Charlie’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”
The street dedication was made possible through legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Durso and Senator Alexis Weik.
“Charlie Bunger’s legacy extends far beyond surfing,” Durso said. “He represents the very best of Long Island—a hardworking
entrepreneur, a community leader, and a family man whose business has become a landmark. It was my privilege to help sponsor this legislation so that his remarkable contributions will be recognized for generations to come.”
Senator Monica Martinez also joined local officials, community members, and the Bunger family in
celebrating the occasion. The Town of Babylon congratulates the entire Bunger family on this welldeserved recognition and thanks them for more than six decades of dedication to the community. Their story serves as a lasting reminder that, with hard work, passion, and family, a dream can grow into a legacy that stands the test of time.
NOTICE
The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on July 28, 2026 and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the West Babylon Union Free School District, in the County of Suffolk, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this Notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the publication of this Notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.
Amanda McNamara District Clerk
BOND RESOLUTION OF THE WEST BABYLON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, NEW YORK, ADOPTED JULY 28, 2026, AUTHORIZING THE PAYMENT OF A SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $2,250,000, APPROPRIATING
SAID AMOUNT THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF NOT TO EXCEED $2,250,000 BONDS OF SAID DISTRICT TO FINANCE SAID APPROPRIATION
The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the payment of a Settlement Agreement and Release for certain Due Process Complaints filed against the District, at the estimated total cost of $2,250,000.
The amount of obligations to be issued is not to exceed $2,250,000.
The period of probable usefulness is between five (5) and fifteen (15) years and shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the New York Local Finance Law.
A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the District Clerk, West Babylon Union Free School District, 10 Farmingdale Road, West Babylon, New York 11704.
Dated:
July 28, 2026
WBAB - 892 - 8/5/26
Donate Blood Via The Red Cross Blood Donor App
(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-RED-CROSS and by volunteering to support blood collections at www.redcross.org/VolunteerToday.
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PSEG Long Island Announces First-Ever Business First Award Winners
Awardees from Bellport, Copiague, Glen Cove, Lindenhurst, New Hyde Park, Northport, Port Jefferson, Port Washington, Syosset-Woodbury, and West Babylon
PSEG Long Island recently presented its first ever Business First Awards to small business owners and business organizations for encouraging downtown shopping and helping their communities flourish.
In 2018 PSEG Long Island created several grant programs designed to foster vitality and growth of a business district and create jobs. Through these Business First financial incentives, PSEG Long Island has distributed more than $3.5 million in grants to hundreds of local small businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways to support the economy, communities and the local workforce.
These awards recognize those who have received grants and incentives with these financial programs and encourage business owners in their communities to participate.
“We are thrilled to partner with and recognize small business owners who are making a difference in our communities,” said Veronica Isaac, PSEG Long Island’s senior manager of Customer and Community Partnerships. “These new awards are another way PSEG Long Island is saying thanks and supporting business owners and their commitment to creating jobs in our communities and improving the local economy.”
The awards were presented at PSEG Long Island’s Business First Workshop, an event to connect business owners to grants, financial incentives, rebates, partnerships and other programs offered by PSEG Long Island, held last month during National Small Business Week.
PSEG Long Island granted its “Community Thrive Recognition Projects Award” to the Syosset-Woodbury
Chamber of Commerce and Copiague Chamber of Commerce for beautifying their communities – Syosset with a mural, walkway, benches and plantings at Syosset Memorial Park and Copiague with the installation of a gazebo at Gateway Park. Both Chambers of Commerce received PSEG Long Island Community Thrive grants to fund these projects.
PSEG Long Island’s “Best All Time Community Thrive Participation Award” was given to the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce to acknowledge the organization’s participation in PSEG Long Island’s Community Thrive projects every year since the financial incentive program began in 2018.
The “Best All-Time Community Thrive plus Main Street Revitalization and Vacant Space Revival Referrals Award” was given to the Port Washington Business Improvement District (BID). Over the eight years these three financial incentive programs have been active, the Port Washington BID has participated, earning tens of thousands of dollars in financial incentives for its community. In addition, the BID shares information about these incentives to new businesses to further support downtown growth, commerce and employment.
Community Thrive grants provide incentives of up to $10,000 per chamber or BID, with a 25% bonus for projects located within a New York State Energy Research and Development Authoritydeemed disadvantaged community (NYSERDA DAC).
The “Most Active Organization for Economic Development Program Referrals since 2020 Award” was given to the Greater New Hyde Park Chamber of
(l-r) Veronica Isaac and Alex Nyilas, PSEG Long Island; Rachel Joffe, Bricks and Minifigs; Christine Bryson, PSEG Long Island; Jason Kontakis, Lindenhurst Business Improvement District (BID), Steve Veccia, PSEG Long Island; Cheryl Fajardo, Greater New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce; Chris O’Brien, T. F. O’Brien Cooling & Heating; Lisa Basini, The Baking Coach; John Anthony Ferrara, Electric Training School; Holly Byrne, Port Washington BID; Russell Green, Syosset-Woodbury Chamber of Commerce; Barbara Ransome, Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. Note: additional photos of the event and awardees are available at flic.kr/s/aHBqjCVAPu.
Commerce and Lindenhurst BID. Both organizations were honored for consistent referrals to PSEG Long Island’s Main Street Revitalization and Vacant Space projects.
PSEG Long Island’s Main Street Revitalization grant provides a direct-to-business award of up to $100,000 for customers undertaking renovation or expansion projects to start or grow their business. An additional 25% bonus may apply for businesses located in a NYSERDA DAC. Nonprofit organizations may qualify for a 10% award bonus.
PSEG Long Island’s Vacant Space Revival Program provides qualified new business customers up to $10,000 in electric bill credits for their first 12 months in business.
Designed to encourage occupancy of commercial space that has been vacant for a period of one year or more, this program supports a new business’ first, often most difficult, year in business.
The Baking Coach in Bellport and Brick and Minifigs in West Babylon both received PSEG Long Island’s “Best New Business with Community Focus Award” because both companies provide services and trainings for people with special needs. Studies have shown that teaching skills like baking or LEGO building can be highly beneficial for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays and other conditions affecting cognitive, motor, communication or social
skills. This award recognizes their focus on these specialized communities.
PSEG Long Island’s “Best Main Street Projects to Create New Jobs Award” was given to T. F. O’Brien Cooling & Heating in New Hyde Park because its expansion into Garden City Park enables the 90-year-old company to train a new generation of technicians in the field. The Electrical Training Center in Copiague also received a “Best Main Street Projects to Create New Jobs Award” because its expansion to its new location in Bellport will train more skilled workers for careers as electricians and in other trades. Both companies received PSEG Long Island Main Street Revitalization grants for their own construction projects and regularly share
information with their own customers about PSEG Long Island’s energy efficiency rebates.
PSEG Long Island’s “Best Conversion of a Building in Disrepair” was given to Plado Hospitality in Glen Cove and Blackfish Tavern in Northport. Both restaurants moved into buildings that were in disrepair. Their extensive renovations have created inviting space for indoor and outdoor dining, along with new apartments in Blackfish Tavern building. Both businesses qualified for both PSEG Long Island’s Vacant Space Revival program and Main Street Revitalization grants. For more information on PSEG Long Island financial incentives for business owners, visit psegliny.com/ BusinessFirst.
Pictured
44th Annual Paumanauke Pow Wow
culture while supporting an important cause.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Native American Scholarship Fund. Event Details
Dates & Times Saturday, August 8 10:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Grand Entry Ceremonies: Noon & 7:00 p.m.
Continued On 23
The Paumanauke Native American Festival Inc., in partnership with the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA) and the Town of Babylon, proudly presents the 44th Annual Paumanauke Pow Wow, taking place Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9 at Tanner Park in Copiague.
Celebrating Native American heritage and traditions, this familyfriendly annual event welcomes visitors of all ages for two days filled with vibrant cultural experiences, including Traditional, InterTribal and Aztec dance performances, exciting dance competitions, traditional drumming, Native American artisans, artists, crafts, authentic foods, and specialty vendors.
The Pow Wow offers an opportunity for the public to experience and learn about Native American
44th Annual Paumanauke Pow Wow
Continued From 21
Sunday, August 9 10:00
a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Grand Entry Ceremony: Noon
Location Tanner Park 400 Baylawn
Avenue Copiague, NY 11726
Admission
Adults: $10
Seniors (60+) & Teens (12–16): $5 Children under 12: FREE
No advance ticket sales. Cash only at the gate.
The event will be held rain or shine.
For additional information, visit www.
paumanauke.org or call (516) 495-6076. Information is also available through the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts at www. babylonarts.org or 631-5873696. About BACCA
The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts (BACCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching Long Island through arts programming, performances, exhibitions, and educational opportunities that celebrate creativity and community.
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Photo by Dan Seagraves
