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West Babylon Public Library

211 Route 109

West Babylon (631) 669-5445

www.wbpl.us

Nancy Evans, Director ***

IMAGINE & MAKE: POSTERS (CANVA)

Wednesday, June 17, 6:30-8 pm

Design like a pro! Discover the magic of Canva as you learn how to set up your free account and create custom designs. In this hands-on class, you’ll make and print a poster to take home — perfect for events, marketing, photo collages, and more! Nonrefundable/transferable program fee: $5.

SEASHELL PLANTER ON CANVAS KIT

June 18-25

Join Shirley Ruby Virtually to make a oneof-a-kind project. Nonrefundable/transferable program fee: $5.

LIBRARY GAME ZONE: BINGO

Thursday, June 18, 3-4 pm

Prepare for an afternoon of friendly competition and exciting prizes! Whether you’re a seasoned Bingo player or new to the game, this is a chance to enjoy an afternoon of fun with other community members. Join Librarian Phyllis for this fun-filled afternoon.

to make even more. Nonrefundable/transferable program fee: $5.

DIY: 3D WOODEN STARS KIT

June 23-29

West Babylon Card Holders Only.

PSEGLI CONSUMER ADVOCATE TABLE

Tuesday, June 23, 10 am-1 pm

PSEGLI Consumer Advocates will be available to explain programs that are available to assist low-moderate income customers, such as the: Household Assistance Rate Program, Deferred Payment Agreements for accounts in threat of termination, Residential Energy Affordability Partnership Program (REAP) to educate customers on how to lower their energy costs, Peace of Mind & Friendly Follow Up Programs, and Critical Care Program for customers on Life Sustaining Equipment.

MEDICAID ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE

Tuesday, June 23, 10 am-1:30 pm

IMAGINE & MAKE: FAMILY VACAY SHIRTS

Monday, June 22, 6-8 pm

Create custom family t-shirts with us using sublimation printing! Patrons must bring their own shirts—please be sure they are 100% polyester and a very light color for best results. Each participant will create up to four shirts during the class using the same design, and you’ll have the option to schedule a Makerspace appointment afterward

The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council will have facilitated enrollers trained by the NY State Department of Health at our Library to assist the aged, blind, and disabled populations with enrollment. Sign up will be first-come, first-served and is free of charge. For more information, call the Nassau Suffolk Hospital Council at 631435-3000.

SENIOR SOCIAL CLUB: TAP, CLICK & LEARN

Tuesday, June 23, 2-4 pm

Have a tech question? Bring your own device and ask! This relaxed, one-time session is designed for seniors who Continued On

Meet The Horses At Pal-O-Mine’s Family Event

The entire community is invited to celebrate the Year of the Horse at Pal-O-Mine Equestrian’s “The Mane Event,” a family-friendly festival where kids and adults of all ages will get to experience the magic of the organization’s 13-acre horse farm. The event will take place on Friday, June 19, from 2 to 6 p.m., during the school holiday that honors Juneteenth, at Pal-O-Mine, 829 Old Nichols Road in Islandia.

The Mane Event will feature a parade of PalO-Mine’s many breeds of horses, special riding demonstrations, interactive games, and educational activities. Guests will also meet other residents of the farm, including sheep, donkeys, and chickens, and have the chance to interact with all of the animals.

“Our herd of 25 horses. “Eight miniature horses

and other small animals love when we open the farm to the families in our backyards and beyond,” said Lisa A. Gatti, Founder and CEO of the nonprofit, which provides equineassisted therapeutic programs to children and adults with disabilities, veterans, first responders, people experiencing mental health issues, and many others. “Most people only see horses at a distance from their car windows, so it’s very exciting when they can meet them up close. They are truly magnificent animals.”

Tickets for the Mane Event are $20 per person, available at the gate the day of the event, and free for children 3 and under. Food and drink will be available for purchase. To learn how your company can sponsor The Mane Event, contact Tessa at 631-887-3751.

About Pal-O-Mine Equestrian: Pal-O-Mine Equestrian began in 1995 as a therapeutic horseback riding program for individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive therapeutic equine program to facilitate growth, learning and healing for children and adults with disabilities, survivors of trauma, veterans, first responders, individuals on the autism spectrum and many others. Each week, more than 400 students attend one of the many programs offered at the 13-acre Islandia, NY, campus, which is home to 25 specially trained horses, small farm animals and a therapeutic horticulture program that serves as a vocational internship site for people with disabilities. To learn more, visit www.Pal-OMine.org.

Connect With Dad This Father's Day Even If You're Far Away

Father’s Day celebrations are unique to each family. Some gather for a big celebration, while distance may keep others apart. Children who live far from their fathers can still make the holiday special, even if they can’t be with Dad in person this June.

If you’re miles away from a father, grandfather, or stepfather this Father’s Day, there are still meaningful ways to celebrate.

Connect digitally. If you can’t share a meal in person, use video chat apps like Zoom or FaceTime to connect. Sharing a virtual meal while chatting and laughing can still make the day feel special. Give gifts that keep on giving. Subscription boxes remain popular, from grilling spices and gourmet coffee to snack boxes and cheese-ofthe-month clubs. These gifts offer a monthly reminder of

your appreciation.

Consider virtual experiences. Many shoppers are choosing unique gifts over traditional ones. A virtual whiskey tasting or an online master class you can enjoy together over video call can create lasting memories.

Personalize gifts for Dad. A monogrammed golf bag, custom photo book, or travel gear tied to one of Dad’s hobbies shows extra thought

and care.

Plan a trip together. If Father’s Day can’t be spent together, schedule a future outing like a concert, ballgame, or weekend trip centered around one of Dad’s passions.

Distance may affect Father’s Day celebrations, but with some planning and modern gifting ideas, any dad can feel celebrated and loved.

JUNE HAPPENINGS

ALL JUNE DURING GALLERY HOURS

11:00AM-4:00PM

RAINBOW SCAVENGER HUNT

At the Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St. in Cold Spring Harbor. Find all the colors in the rainbow in the gallery for a prize! Included with Admission. For more information, please call Cristina Ainslie at 631-367-3418

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17th

5:00PM

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES:

GOLDEN GROOVES CONCERT

JESSE GARRON'S TRIBUTE TO ELVIS

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. 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, JUNE 20th

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. The Amityville Farmer’s Market is sponsored by the Bay Village Civic Association. There will be a local farmer, and many vendors. For more information,

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

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

10:00AM-4:00PM

KING'S PARK DAY CRAFT AND STREET FAIR

Kings Park main Street, 1 Main Street in Kings Park. King Park Day is located on Main Street and the municipal parking lot. Traditional street fair with over 100 craft and gift vendors, food trucks, games, rides. Vendors have the option to have their vehicle at the booth in the municipal lot or a space in the street. For more information, please call 631-885-1267

thru SUNDAY, JUNE 21st

5:00PM-11:00PM Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri.; 4:00PM-11:00PM Thurs. 3:00PM-11:00PM Sat. - Sun. LONG ISLAND FUNFEST

At Suffolk County Community College, 485 Wicks Road in Brentwood. Long Island's largest fair is back with family entertainment including dazzling Saturday night Fireworks by Grucci, exciting midway rides and games for all ages, and favorite fair food. For More Information, please call 866666-3247 or Long Island FunFest

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24th

3:30PM-8:00PM NY BLOOD DRIVE

Christ Lutheran Church, 117 Carleton Ave. in Islip Terrace. For more information, please call 631-581-1710

6:00PM

SUMMER SOLSTICE WALKING TOUR

Bayport Blue Point Heritage Association's Frank Giebfried will be your guide for an evening stroll that marks the beginning of the summer season. This is a BBP Library program and you need to register with the library to join the walking tour. There are 2 dates available and space is limited. You can register by phone by calling the library at 631-363-6133 and dial 3 for the main desk. The tour will last about 2 hours.

SATURDAY, JUNE 27th

12:00PM-9:30PM UFOlogy: CLOSE ENCOUNTERS AT THE CRADLE

Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard in Garden City. UFOlogy is a one-day family event blending STEM education, aviation history, science ﬁction, and drone technology, culminating in the Museum’s inaugural 300-drone nighttime show. For more information, please call 516-572-4066

SUNDAY, JUNE 28th

12:00PM-5:00PM EMPOWERED SUMMER FESTIVAL Free Admission. Over 100 Vendors, Psychics, Healers, 8 Food trucks,Adopt a Pet, Music. 759 Long Island Avenue, Deer Park. For more information, please call 516-639-6903

West Babylon JHS Educator Awarded Grant

West Babylon Junior High School library media specialist Michelle Statfeld was selected as a recipient of a $1,000 Model Schools grant award through Western Suffolk BOCES.

Ms. Statfeld was recognized for her innovative project, “Lit Links to 3D Design,” which was selected as one of the winning completed lesson awards. The Model

Schools grant program celebrates educators who create engaging, technology-enhanced learning experiences that inspire students and support innovative instruction.

The Lit Links to 3D Design unit showcases creative, cross-disciplinary teaching approaches that motivate students and enhance their literacy and digital skills. The project provides students with an engaging, hands-on learning experience that combines creativity, critical thinking and problem solving while demonstrating the effective use of technology as a tool for classroom innovation.

Through this project, students connect literacy skills with hands-on design and technology, transforming ideas from the classroom into digital creations. The lesson highlights the power of

integrating technology into instruction to deepen student learning, collaboration, and engagement.

Ms. Statfeld was honored at the annual Model Schools Award Ceremony, where she shared her lesson and the impact it has had on student learning.

West Babylon Junior High School library media specialist

Michelle Statfeld was selected as a recipient of a $1,000 Model Schools grant award through Western Suffolk BOCES. Photo courtesy of West Babylon School District

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.

West Babylon Public Library

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want help using their personal smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Library staff will work with you on basic tasks and how-to questions. Library staff are unable to assist with viruses, cybersecurity concerns, software installations, or hardware diagnosis or repair.

DIY: TIE AMERICAN FLAG WREATH

June 25- July 1

West Babylon Card Holders Only.

LET’S TALK ABOUT BOOKS

Thursday, June 25, 1:30-3:30 pm Dream State by Eric Puchner

FRIDAY FLICKS

Movies begin at 1 pm Friday, June 26, The Patriot (R, 165 mins)

EMPIRE DEFENSIVE DRIVING (JUNE)

Saturday, June 27, 10:00am-4:00pm Attend this class to potentially earn an auto insurance discount and reduce violation points. A $35 non-refundable check or money order (no cash), payable to Empire Safety Council, is due within 48 hours to secure your spot. Space is limited. One registration per person. Phone or inperson registration only.

CASUAL CRAFTING KIT

June 30-July 7

West Babylon Card Holders Only.

NYBC-BLOOD DRIVE

Tuesday, June 30, 11:30 am-5:30 pm

Please come show your support and donate blood with the New York Blood Center.

Town of Babylon Unanimously Renames West Babylon Intersection In Honor Of FDNY Deputy Chief David Burke

The Town of Babylon Board unanimously voted to memorialize the intersection of 10th Street in West Babylon by renaming it FDNY Deputy Chief David Burke Memorial Way, ensuring that the life and legacy of a dedicated EMT, mentor, and community leader will be remembered for generations to come.

The tribute honors FDNY EMS Deputy Chief David Burke, who devoted his life to public service through both the New York City Fire Department and the West Babylon Volunteer Fire Department.

Chief Burke joined the West Babylon Volunteer Fire Department in October 2001 after previously serving six years with the Jericho Fire Department. During more than two decades of service in West Babylon, he held numerous leadership positions,

including Lieutenant and Captain of the Rescue Squad, Trustee, Training Officer, and CPR Instructor. Known for his passion for emergency medical services and dedication to training future firefighters and EMTs, Burke left a lasting impact on countless members of the department.

In addition to his volunteer service, Burke served nearly 37 years with the FDNY, ultimately retiring as Deputy Chief of Division 9. He was among the brave first responders who answered the call on September 11, 2001, and recently succumbed to illnesses related to his service at the World Trade Center site.

Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer said the memorial designation is a fitting tribute to a man who exemplified courage,

leadership, and selflessness.

“David Burke dedicated his life to serving others, whether it was in New York City, here in West Babylon, or mentoring the next generation of firefighters

JFK Students Spread Kindness, Celebrate Strengths

Mrs. Tocci’s class at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in the West Babylon School District celebrated Kindness Day as part of their countdown to summer, creating a special opportunity for students to recognize and appreciate one another. Each student received a heart with their name on it and classmates rotated around the room, taking turns writing kind phrases, compliments and words of encouragement on each other’s hearts. By the end of the activity, every student received a heart filled with seven thoughtful messages from their classmates. The activity encouraged students to spread kindness, celebrate each other’s strengths and build a positive classroom community. It was a memorable reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big impact — and everyone left feeling the love. Photo courtesy of West Babylon School District

and EMTs,” Schaffer said. “Renaming this intersection in his honor ensures that his extraordinary service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by our community.”

Councilman Terence McSweeney, a current FDNY firefighter and Chairman of Public Safety for the Town of Babylon, reflected on Burke’s impact within the fire/rescue departments.

“As a FDNY firefighter, I know firsthand the dedication and sacrifice that this job requires,” McSweeney said. “Chief Burke was the

embodiment of what it means to serve. He answered the call on September 11th, dedicated nearly four decades to protecting the people of New York City, and spent countless hours mentoring firefighters and EMTs in West Babylon. This memorial is a permanent reminder of a life lived in service to others.”

While Burke’s accomplishments in the fire service were remarkable, family and friends remember him most as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. His legacy lives on through his wife, Rosemarie, his

children, Daniel and Megan, and the many lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.

The Town Board extended its condolences to the Burke family and all those who had the privilege of knowing him, while reaffirming its commitment to honoring the sacrifices made by first responders and their families.

With the designation of FDNY Deputy Chief David Burke Memorial Way, the Town of Babylon has created a lasting tribute to a man whose service, courage, and dedication will never be forgotten.

Did You Know?

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, some may wonder where the name “America” comes from. According to the Library of Congress, it is derived from Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who suggested the lands reached by Christopher Columbus in 1492 were part of a separate continent. In 1507, German mapmaker Martin Waldseemüller honored Vespucci by naming the region “America” on a map—the first to depict it as a separate continent—now held by the Library of Congress and often called “America’s Birth Certificate.”

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Today you celebrate an incredible achievement and tomorrow begins a new adventure. As you pursue your dreams, remember that anything is possible with hardwork, determination, and belief in yourself. Dream big, stay focused, and never be afraid to reach for the stars-the sky is truly the limit.

Wishing all graduates a future ﬁlled with success, happiness, and endless opportunities.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Celebrating your accomplishments and cheering you on every step of the way.