These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on the community.
Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.
Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
Kids Coloring Contest!
Get creative and color the drawing to the best of your ability! Three winners will be chosen - one in each age category: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10.
Winners will receive a 4-pack of tickets to Splish Splash. All entries must be submitted by July 27. One entry per person.
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Town of Babylon Celebrates Opening of Inclusive Playground
The Town of Babylon officially celebrated the grand opening of the newly reconstructed Bob “Captain Kangaroo” Keeshan Tot Lot at Town Hall, cutting the ribbon on a state-of-theart playground designed to provide children of all abilities with a safe, welcoming place to play.
The new playground replaces a structure that served the community for nearly two decades and was designed with accessibility and inclusion at the forefront. Featuring innovative play equipment and sensory-rich experiences for children of all ages and developmental abilities, the playground ensures more families can enjoy the space together.
Supervisor Rich Schaffer said the project reflects the Town’s continued commitment to investing in parks and creating opportunities for every child.
“This new playground reflects the Town of
Babylon’s commitment to ensuring every child has a place to play, grow and feel included,” Schaffer said.
“We’re proud to invest in projects that strengthen our neighborhoods and improve the quality of life for our residents. Thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul’s support and a $1 million New York State grant, we’ve transformed this beloved playground into a destination where families will create memories for generations to come.”
Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez, chairman of the Town Board’s Parks & Recreation Committee, said the new facility represents a significant investment in the Town’s future.
“This playground is about making sure every child has the opportunity to play, explore and create lasting memories,” Martinez said.
“We’re grateful to Governor Hochul for helping make this project possible through $1 million in New York
State funding. Her support has allowed us to replace a 20-year-old playground with a truly inclusive space, and we’re proud to bring this incredible new amenity to the families of the Town of Babylon.”
Councilman Terence McSweeney said the project holds special significance for him.
“Growing up with family members who had disabilities gave me an early understanding that everyone deserves the same opportunities to enjoy life’s simple moments,” McSweeney said. “Today’s ribbon-cutting means a great deal to me because this playground was built so more children—regardless of their abilities—can play together, laugh together and make memories together. That’s what a truly inclusive community looks like, and I’m proud that the Town of Babylon is making that vision a reality.”
Joining Town officials for
the ceremony were Thalia Olaya, Suffolk County regional representative for Governor Kathy Hochul, Assemblyman Kwani B. O’Pharrow, and representatives from Green Velvet Landscaping Inc., which constructed the new playground.
More than simply replacing aging equipment, the Bob “Captain Kangaroo” Keeshan Tot Lot represents the Town’s ongoing investment in its parks, families and quality of life. By creating a space where
children of all abilities can play side by side, the Town of Babylon continues to foster a stronger, more inclusive community. Residents are encouraged to visit Town Hall and experience the new playground firsthand.
“What
JULY HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22nd thru SUNDAY, JULY 26th
Wednesday – Thursday
6:30-10:30PM Friday & Saturday
6:30-11:00PM, Sunday 6:30-10:30PM
54th ANNUAL FAMILY FESTIVAL
@ ST. ROSE OF LIMA R. C. CHURCH 2 Babyview Ave. in Massapequa. Featuring carnival rides by Newton Shows, live nightly music, and classic food favorites on the school grounds. For more information, please call 516541-1546
THURSDAY, JULY 23rd
6:00PM-7:00PM
PAULEY THE PLANT MAN
At the Wantagh Public Library 3285 Park Avenue Wantagh. By popular demand 'Pauley the Plant Man' will return and speak on 'Five plants easy to care for and four plants not so easy to care for.' Refreshments served after the program. Questions? contact paumanackegc@gmail.com
FRIDAY, JULY 24th
7:00PM-11:00PM DISCO NIGHT
LIVE music by Deverne Williams &
The Vintage Soul Band, Buffet dinner, beer/wine/soda, dessert & coffee included. $45 per person. Call Barbara Napoli 631-786-9306 for advance reservations. Brumidi Lodge Sons & Daughters of Italy in America, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park
7:00PM
SUMMER CONCERT PERFORMANCE
The Town of Babylon hosts its 2026 Summer Concert Series at the Tanner Park Bandshell, 400 Baylawn Avenue in Copiague. Join us for an
4th - Independence Day
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
evening of live music as part of the Town of Babylon’s Summer Concert Series. Featuring free weekly outdoor performances and tribute bands. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a great night of entertainment. Weather permitting. For more information, please visit https:// townofbabylonny.gov/calendar.aspx
SATURDAY, JULY 25th
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.
10:00AM-3:00PM
THRIFT SHOP AND YARD SALE
St. Patrick’s Church,305 Carll’s Path
In Deer Park. New and slightly used clothes, shoes, jewelry, household items, books, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, arts and crafts. Rent a table for $25.00 Come by and take a look. You won’t be disappointed. For more information, please call 631-242-7530
6:00PM-8:00PM
SUNSET MUSIC FEST
A community concert & collection of essentials to support the performing arts, On the Village Green in Farmingdale. Lively performances celebrating local artists, with tributes to America’s 250th Anniversary ~ Presented by New York Senator
Steve Rhoads and the Farmingdale Village Board of Trustees. Bring chairs/blankets for seating. For more information, please call 516-882-0630
MONDAY, JULY 27th
thru FRIDAY, JULY 31st
5:30PM-8:00PM
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Ages 4 through 11, $15 per child includes dinner nightly. Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-0221, churchon231@ gmail.com
FRIDAY, JULY 31st
6:00PM-6:45PM MAGIC OF AMORE
At Emma Clark Library, 120 Main Street in Setauket. Prepare to be amazed by this award-winning magic show, packed with illusions, music, and comedy! Presented by Magic of Amore. Hosted by Emma Clark Library. For families with children ages 3 – 11 years old. No registration required. Questions? Email kids@ emmaclark.org, or call 631-941-4080
Now thru SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th
TIMES VARY
2026 JONES BEACH BANDSHELL SUMMER CONCERT
The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation is thrilled to announce the 2026 Bandshell Summer Concert Series at Jones Beach State Park at Field 4 Boardwalk. Every night through September 6th. For the most up to date information on performance status and schedule, please contact Jones Beach State Park at 516-785-1600.
At Mangano, we embrace cultural diversity. Why? Because every service we perform is a celebration of life. With each unique family we serve, our professional staff is entrusted to plan and carry out a one-of-a-kind
1701 Deer Park Avenue • Deer Park, NY 11729 (631) 586-3600
640 Middle Country Road Middle Island, NY 11953 (631) 345-6700
At Mangano, we embrace cultural diversity. Why? Because every service we perform is a celebration of life. With each unique family we serve, our professional staff is entrusted to plan and carry out a one-of-a-kind celebration. And we believe this is what we do best. Defining American culture is boundless, we’re pleased that the families we serve are, too.
At Mangano, we embrace cultural diversity. Why? Because every service we perform is a celebration of life. With each unique family we serve, our professional staff is entrusted to plan and carry out a one-of-a-kind celebration. And we believe this is what we do best. Defining American culture is boundless, we’re pleased that the families we serve are, too.
Tuthill-Mangano Funeral Home 406 East Main Street, Riverhead (631) 727-2403 Owned & Operated Since 1911 1-800-CREMATION
At Mangano, we embrace cultural diversity. Why? Because every service we perform is a celebration of life. With each unique family we serve, our professional staff is entrusted to plan and carry out a one-of-a-kind celebration. And we believe this is what we do best. Defining American culture is boundless, we’re pleased that the families we serve are, too. 1701 Deer Park Avenue • Deer Park, NY 11729 (631) 586-3600
At Mangano, we embrace cultural diversity. Why? Because every service we perform is a celebration of life. With each unique family we serve, our professional staff is entrusted to plan and carry out a one-of-a-kind celebration. And we believe this is what we do best. Defining American culture is boundless, we’re pleased that the families we serve are, too. 1701 Deer Park Avenue • Deer Park, NY 11729 (631) 586-3600
At Mangano, we embrace cultural diversity. Why? Because every service we perform is a celebration of life. With each unique family we serve, our professional staff is entrusted to plan and carry out a one-of-a-kind celebration. And we believe this is what we do best. Defining American culture is boundless, we’re pleased that the families we serve are, too.
• Cremations • Preplanning
Funerals • Cremations • Preplanning
640 Middle Country Road Middle Island, NY 11953 (631) 345-6700
1701 Deer Park Avenue • Deer Park, NY 11729 (631) 586-3600
Tuthill-Mangano Funeral Home
Tuthill-Mangano
727-2403
Funerals • Cremations • Preplanning
Tuthill-Mangano Funeral Home 406 East Main Street, Riverhead (631) 727-2403 Owned & Operated Since 1911
640 Middle Country Road Middle Island, NY 11953 (631) 345-6700
Tuthill-Mangano Funeral Home 406 East Main Street, Riverhead (631) 727-2403
Town Of Babylon To Host 19th Annual Babylon Soldier Ride
The Town of Babylon will host its 19th Annual Babylon Soldier Ride on Thursday, July 23, beginning with a special opening ceremony at 9 a.m. at Babylon Town Hall in Lindenhurst.
also recognize the ride’s top fundraisers and include a blessing of the riders.
have sacrificed in service to our nation.
The ceremony will honor the wounded veterans participating in the ride and recognize the community members, organizations, and supporters who have helped make the annual event a success. Town officials, representatives from the Wounded Warrior Project, and local community leaders will offer remarks before the riders begin their journey. A highlight of this year’s ceremony will be the presentation of more than $200,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project—the largest donation in the history of the Babylon Soldier Ride. The event will
For 19 years, the Town of Babylon has proudly partnered with the Wounded Warrior Project to host Babylon Soldier Ride, raising critical funds to support programs and services for wounded veterans. This year’s event marks a historic milestone, with the Town presenting its largest donation ever— more than $200,000— to the organization. A portion of the proceeds will also benefit SkyHope, a Farmingdale-based nonprofit that provides free air transportation for military personnel, veterans and their families.
Babylon Soldier Ride continues to unite veterans, residents, businesses, first responders, and community organizations in support of those who
Scheduled participants include Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer, members of the Babylon Town Board, Walt Piatt, Chief Executive Officer of Wounded Warrior Project, Juan Valdez, a Wounded Warrior Project alumnus and retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Donna Collins, Executive Director of SkyHope, Risa Price, Director of Operations for SkyHope, Pastor Marc Herbst of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, the Saffron United Pipe Band, and wounded veterans participating in the 2026 Babylon Soldier Ride.
Long Island Seniors Invited To “Yoga In The Garden” On July 30 Free Outdoor Wellness Program Promotes Physical and Cognitive Health
The AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center invites Long Island seniors to “Yoga in the Garden,” a free outdoor wellness program designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The event takes place at the Center (149 Schleigel Boulevard, Amityville) on July 30 at 11 am. Those wishing to participate should register by calling the Center at 631-223-4000. No prior yoga experience is needed.
Participants in this hourlong program will perform a variety of simple, seated yoga poses and stretches as shown by the instructor. Seated yoga offers a safe and accessible way to encourage movement, increase body awareness, and foster social engagement.
Yoga is widely recognized for its many health benefits. Regular practice can help reduce stress, improve flexibility and balance, strengthen muscles, enhance posture, and encourage relaxation. Deep breathing and mindful movement may also support improved mood, better sleep, and overall well-being.
“Yoga in the Garden” and all activity programs at the AFA Barbara Rabinowitz
Education & Resource Center are dementiafriendly; therapists adapt directions and movements based on the abilities of the group participants, including people living with dementia. Register for the free ‘Yoga in the Garden” program on July 30 at the AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center by calling the Center at 631-223-4000.
WORDS
Help Wanted Help Wanted
Business Analyst sought by automotive sales & service. co. Must have proof of legal authorization to work in the US. M-F, 40 hrs/wk. Job to be performed at 1026 East Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station, NY 11746 USA. O d Salary: $109,491.00 Yearly. For full info about the job opportunity refer to internet posting at https://jobs.keldair.com/ empireautomotive/jobs/100232/businessanalyst. Refer to Job #: BA052626. To apply send resume to hr@eagny.com or else mail it to HR, Empire Automotive Group LLC, 1026 East Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station, NY 11746 USA. 442745N072226
HAPPY 250 ANNIVERSARY AMERICA
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$50.00 Off Any General Pest Control Service When You Mention This Ad! Expires 8/15/2026 skywaypest@gmail.com www.SKYW AYPEST.com
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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 THE power of CLAS SIFIED!
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
TO pl ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A
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ace an ad in the CLASSIFIED se ctio n, call 631-226-2636, press “2”. A sales representative will be happy to assist you.
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Ca ll Our Classifi ed Dept. 631-226-2636 press “2” GET YOUR AD NOTICED! Ca ll Our Classifi ed Dept. 631-226-2636 Ext. 276
Hope For The Warriors, Robert Half To Host Virtual Career Workshop For Military Community
In honor of National Hire a Veteran Day, Hope For The Warriors will host a free virtual career workshop on July 23 with Robert Half to help veterans, service members, and military spouses navigate the civilian job market.
The second workshop of a four-part series, National Hire a Veteran Day, Employer Spotlight Panel, will be hosted on Thursday, July 23, at 11 a.m. EST.
Led by career coaches from Hope For The Warriors and Robert Half, the goal of the interactive workshop is to encourage participant discussion and to discuss the skills civilian companies seek in veteran candidates, how veterans can stand out in a competitive job market, common misconceptions — and how to overcome them.
Representatives from Forward Air, Caliber-Inc., and S&P Global. Employers and more will be on hand to provide hiring and recruiting perspectives as part of the conversation.
Discussion topics may also include:
• What employers look for when hiring veterans and military spouses
• Translating military experience into civilian language
• Resume and applicant tracking system best practices
• Interview strategies
• Networking and building professional relationships
• AI in today’s job search
• Common hiring misconceptions
• Career readiness and standing out in a competitive job market
During registration, participants are invited to submit career and employment questions. The session is intended to be conversational rather than presentationbased, allowing attendees to engage directly with Hope For The Warriors, Robert Half, and participating employer representatives.
As a part of Hope For The Warriors’ Warriors’ Compass transition program, the free, virtual career workshop series provides training to help prepare those in the military landscape for a job search in today’s civilian climate. The workshops offer tools and tips, as well as opportunities to network with other service members, military spouses, and companies committed to hiring those with military backgrounds.
recognize the continued contributions veterans make to today’s workforce and to encourage employers and job seekers to engage in open dialogue about successful career transitions.
Hope For The Warriors and Robert Half will host two more free workshops in 2026: Thursday, Sept. 17, will discuss applicant tracking systems and how to get seen; and Thursday, Nov. 19, will cover salary negotiation and compensation confidence.
To register for the free, virtual career workshops, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.
“The National Hire a Veteran Day, Employer Spotlight Panel workshop gives members of the military community direct access to an interactive discussion with employers who understand the value of military experience and can speak to what companies are looking for in today’s hiring environment,” said Brian Papakie, director of transition services and life roles for Hope For The Warriors and a retired U.S. Marine. As the nation celebrates 250 years of military service and sacrifice, National Hire a Veteran Day provides a meaningful opportunity to
About Hope For The Warriors: Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military community (including veterans and active-duty service members as well as military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen). At HOPE, we deliver services that help individuals and their families navigate the challenges of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment, and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.
New York Blood Center
Declares Blood Emergency
Help Needed - @ New York Blood Center has issued a blood emergency. The blood supply has dropped from 5 days to a 2-3 day supply, and 1-2 day supply of type O; NYBC warns this could signal more severe shortages in the weeks ahead. Please sign up to donate at a convenient donation location near you: smarturl.it/NYBC_ Urgent