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Town Of Babylon Dedicates New Harbor Patrol Safeboat In Honor Of Fallen Bay Constable Richard L. Brooks

The Town of Babylon recently held a dedication ceremony at Tanner Park Marina to officially name its new 31-foot Harbor Patrol Safeboat

The Richard L. Brooks, honoring the memory of a Bay Constable and retired NYPD Lieutenant who was shot and killed in the line of duty in 2004 while serving the Town.

The ceremony was attended by Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Public Safety Commissioner Jerry Gigante, Harbor Master Artie Smith, Sylvia Brooks — widow of Richard L. Brooks — the Brooks family, Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly, Suffolk County Legislature Minority Leader Jason Richberg, Amityville Village Mayor Michael O’Neill, representatives from the office of Assemblyman Kwani B. O’Pharrow, and the Town’s Bay Constables.

“His memory will stay alive,” Supervisor Schaffer said. “He truly

loved being on the water, and this dedication is a fitting tribute to a man who gave a lifetime of service — first as a volunteer firefighter in Amityville at just 17 years old, and throughout his entire career in law enforcement.”

Richard Brooks’ son, Richard Jr., expressed gratitude on behalf of the family. “My dad loved the Town of Babylon, loved being on the water — he said being a Bay Constable was his retirement job, and he did it for fun. With this boat, his memory stays alive, and that’s really all we can ask for.”

The vessel was made possible through a U.S. Department of Homeland Security port security grant. The boat’s total cost was approximately $777,000, with the Town securing $588,000 — roughly 80% — in federal funding. Commissioner Gigante noted that the grant was awarded on the Town’s second application after the team refined and resubmitted following an initial rejection.

“You could get a rejection and walk

away from it, but Jerry and his team stood fast,” said Supervisor Schaffer. “Getting it on the second try is considered a significant achievement — it takes many municipalities years to secure this type of funding.”

The Richard L. Brooks represents a major upgrade to the Bay Constables’ aging fleet, which previously consisted of vessels dating back to 1995. The new Safeboat features:

Emergency medical transport capability for stretcher patients via a hydraulic drop-down bow

All-weather and offshore operation

Thermal imaging and radiation detection technology

First aid and emergency response equipment

12-person capacity

Highly maneuverable design suited for tightquarters operations

Commissioner Gigante emphasized the critical role the vessel will play in multi-agency water rescues. “On the water, resources are thin.

When there’s a missing

person, an overturned boat, or an emergency, every municipality out there works together — and now we can fully participate in those rescues.”

Harbor Master Artie Smith noted the boat’s versatility, including the ability to operate in ocean conditions and transport patients directly to Good Samaritan University Hospital via the marina waterway if needed.

The Town also announced the recent receipt of a rescue gator, which will operate on Town beaches and provide stretcher transport capability for beachside emergencies.

The dedication comes days before one of the busiest boating weekends of the year. The Town of Babylon has worked actively with state partners on boating safety education and licensing requirements, with Bay Constables conducting outreach to residents and young boaters throughout the season.

JULY HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8th

7:00PM

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: STRAWBERRY FIELDS –BEATLES TRIBUTE

FRIDAY, JULY 10th

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: SOMETHIN' FRESH

The Town of Babylon hosts its 2026 Summer Concert Series at the Tanner Park Bandshell, 400 Baylawn Avenue in Copiague. Join us for an 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

FRIDAY, JULY 10th & SATURDAY, JULY 11th

9:30AM-3:00PM

INDOOR/OUTDOOR YARD SALE FUNDRAISER

Rain or Shine. Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Avenue (@ Lake Ave) in Deer Park. For more information, please call 631-242-0221. No Vendors/Free Admission

SATURDAY, JULY 11th

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

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

amityfarmers market @gmail.com or bayvillagecivic@aol.com.

SUNDAY, JULY 12th

3:00PM-7:00PM

MEMORIAL PICNIC

Please join us at Firemen's Park in Lindenhurst, in celebrating the life of Paul, who proudly worked at Exotic Wines & Liquors in Lindenhurst for over 15 years. All who knew and loved Paul are welcome. For more information, please call Elaine 631-226-3965

MONDAY, JULY 13th

1:00PM-7:00PM

BLOOD DRIVE

Knights of Columbus, 2183 Jackson Ave., in Seaford, will be hosting a Blood Drive for the New York Blood Center. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, contact Charlie Barr, 516-510-4703

SATURDAY, JULY 18th

10:00AM-4:00PM

WANTAGH PRESERVATION SOCIETY'S 5TH ANNUAL ANTIQUE CAR SHOW

Rain date Saturday July 19th. On museum grounds 1700 Wantagh Ave, in Wantagh. Cars from the 1960's & older. Entrance fee - $1. Refreshments for sale, museum complex sites will be open, 50/50 , music. For more information, email: wantaghmuseum@gmail.com

THRUJULY 19th

FAIR HOURS: 5:00PM11:00PM weekdays and NOON11:00PM Saturday - Sunday EMPIRE STATE FAIR at Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an

adult age 21+ Enjoy Fireworks by Grucci, midway rides, family entertainment, favorite fair food & more! For more information, please call 866-666-3247 or Empire State Fair

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

NOW THROUGH 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! The Bandshell hosts free events at the Field 4 Boardwalk. This event is our way to get people to sing, dance, and laugh with friends and family at the beach. Every night through September 6th (excluding July 1st –July 6th) we have programming for everyone to enjoy. This program is sponsored by the Natural Heritage Trust, WBAB 102.3 and WBLI 106.1 Radio Stations. For the most up to date information on performance status and schedule, please contact Jones Beach State Park at 516-7851600.

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.

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 subscribe to our newsletter?

Yes: No:

Full Tray of Choice: Sausage & Peppers or Meatballs

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.

Enjoy A Healthy Summer

Colds may not be as common in summer as they are in winter, but anyone who has had one during warm, sunny weather knows how unpleasant a runny nose, sore throat, and low energy can be when everyone else is outside enjoying the season. There’s no substitute for feeling healthy in summer. A healthy summer means avoiding illness and making the most of a season when no one

wants to battle colds or other health issues. The following

strategies can help people stay well:

• Protect your skin from the sun. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outside and reapplying as needed, especially after swimming or sweating. The American Cancer Society notes that sunburn blisters can increase skin cancer risk, while sunburn can also weaken immune system response.

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Girl Scout Troop 683 Donates Oak Tree To Enhance Geiger Park

Girl Scout Troop 683 recently made a lasting contribution to the Town of Babylon by donating an oak tree that was planted at Geiger Park, helping to enhance the community’s green spaces for future generations. The tree was planted with the assistance of Town of Babylon horticulturist Jennifer Ulsheimer. The project reflects the troop’s dedication to environmental stewardship, civic engagement, and community service while adding a beautiful new feature to one of the town’s cherished parks.

Councilman and Beautification Committee Chairman Terence McSweeney commended the Scouts for their efforts and commitment to improving the community.

“It was wonderful to see these young leaders take an active role in making our community a better place,” McSweeney said. “This oak tree will stand as a lasting symbol of their hard work, dedication, and pride in Babylon. We are grateful to Girl Scout Troop 683 and Jennifer Ulsheimer for helping make this project a success.”

Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly also praised the initiative and the positive example set by the troop.

“Projects like this demonstrate the meaningful impact our young people can have on both the environment and their community,” Donnelly said. “I commend Girl Scout Troop 683 for their generosity and civic spirit, and I look forward to watching this tree grow alongside the community it serves.”

Town officials thanked the members of Girl Scout Troop 683 for their contribution, noting that the newly planted oak tree will provide beauty, shade, and environmental benefits for years to come while serving as a reminder of the troop’s commitment to community service.

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Enjoy A Healthy Summer

Continued From 14

• Limit alcohol consumption. Summer social events often mean more opportunities to drink, but alcohol and hot weather can be a risky mix. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that heat increases fluid loss through sweating, while alcohol adds to dehydration by increasing urination, raising the risk of heat stroke.

• Eat the right foods. A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables supports muscles, strengthens bones, and boosts immunity, according to the CDC. Good nutrition can help people stay energized and better prepared for active summer schedules.