New York State Senator Steven Rhoads proudly joined local leaders and residents in supporting the Seaford Fire Department’s annual Easter Plant Sale fundraiser, a cherished community tradition celebrating the arrival of spring while benefiting local volunteer first responders. Held at the Seaford Fire Department, the event features a vibrant selection of seasonal plants and flowers, drawing families and neighbors together in support of those who dedicate their time and service to protecting the community.
West Babylon Public Library
211 Route 109
West Babylon (631) 669-5445
www.wbpl.us
Nancy Evans, Director ***
YOGA
Wednesdays, June 3-24, 6-7 pm
Join us for this monthly Yoga series. Nonrefundable/transferable fee for the month of sessions: $8.
PAINT NIGHT: SUMMER DAY
Thursday, June 4, 6:45-8:30pm
Join us and paint your
very own masterpiece. Non-refundable/ transferable program fee: $5.
FRIDAY FLICKS
Movies begin at 1 pm Friday, June 5: Forrest Gump: (PG-13, 142 mins)
STEEPED IN HISTORY:
AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY TEA PARTY
Saturday, June 6, 1-3
pm
Join the Friends of the West Babylon Public Library for a spirited celebration of America’s 250th anniversary - with
a nod to the historic Boston Tea Party! Hear from a former National Park Ranger, fascinating stories about the pivotal events that sparked the Revolutionary War and led to the birth of our nation - all while enjoying a cup of tea and delicious biscuits. Bring your favorite teacup and raise a toast to liberty, history, and good company! Hosted by the Friends of the West Babylon Public Library.
DOG PARENTING 101
Tuesday, June 9, 7-8 pm
Learn how to better understand your dog and build a safer, more dog-friendly community. This informative class covers dog behavior, basic training tips, body language, local dog laws, and safety for children and pets. Perfect for current or future dog parents—please note, this is not a training class and no dogs will be present.
DIY: PATRIOTIC GNOME HANG KIT
June 10-16
West Babylon Card Holders Only.
MEDICAID ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE
Wednesday, June 10, 10 am-1:30 pm
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 631-435-3000.
BUSY PERSON’S BOOK GROUP
Thursday, June 11, 7-8:30 pm
The Art Thief by Michael Finkel.
On Tuesday, May 18, 2026, Suffolk County Legislator RJ Renna joined Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Town of Babylon Supervisor Richard Schaffer, Good Samaritan University Hospital and first responders at a press conference to urge extreme caution this summer when enjoying pools or beaches.
Per Catholic Health and Good Samaritan University
Legislator Renna Joins Call for Water Safety
Hospital, drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1-4 years old.
Said Legislator Renna on the safety initiative: “I was proud to stand with leadership from Catholic Health, County Executive Romaine, and the Town of Babylon today to raise awareness for water safety as summer nears. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental
death nationwide among young children, and I encourage all parents and guardians to hear our plea and to be safe on and around the water this summer. Never leave a child unobserved around water.”
Here are some measures you can take to keep your child safe:
While Boating
• Keep weak and nonswimmers in Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) while on docks and marinas.
• It is important to remember that swimming aids and water toys such as water wings and inflatable rings, do not prevent drowning.
• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD while boating. Federal law requires that when a vessel is underway, children under 13 years of age must wear their life jacket.
• Choose a life jacket that is right for your child’s weight and water activity. Make sure life jackets are the right fit for your child.
• For younger children, choose a PFD with both a collar for head support and a strap between the legs.
• Infant/baby life Jacketsunder 30lbs
• Toddler life jackets - 3050 Ibs
• Youth life jackets - 50-90 Ibs
• Adult life jackets - 90Ibs and over In the Pool
• Your growing child will go through three different youth life jacket sizes before they reach the adult sizes:
• Remove toys from the pool area when the pool it is not in use. Toys can attract young children into the pool.
• If a child is missing, check the pool first. Go to the edge of the pool and scan the entire pool top to bottom, as well as the surrounding pool area.
• Keep basic life-saving equipment (a pole, rope and/or personal flotation device) by the pool and know how to use them.
WORDS
Students Connect With Community Professionals At Career Fair
West Babylon Senior High School’s business department hosted a Career Fair on May 19 at the high school, providing students with the opportunity to learn about a wide range of career paths and professions.
Local businesses and organizations, many represented by alumni of the district, attended the event to speak with students
about career opportunities available after graduation.
Throughout the fair, students engaged with representatives and explored different professions while learning about education requirements, job responsibilities and career experiences.
Representatives from a variety of fields participated in the event, including insurance agencies, the local
library, Town of Babylon officials, fire department personnel, social workers and therapists.
The Career Fair offered students valuable real-world insight while encouraging them to think about their future goals and explore the many opportunities available to them beyond high school.
Photos courtesy of West Babylon School District
State Utilities is a major oil dealer on Long Island providing heating fuel to residents and businesses in Nassau and Suffolk County; we offer on-line fuel ordering, delivery, and full service heating oil contracts.
State Utilities takes pride in supplying fuel you need to heat your home and/or office to the comfort level you desire. Winter can be long and brutal, and should your burner fail to start it can become a crucial disaster. It is comforting to have full service during this disruption by contacting us by telephone or Email, no matter what the weather outside.
Celebrating 74 years in business, we are grateful to the many generations of loyal customers who have entrusted State Utilities with their interior comfort. Thank you.
Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops
Serves 7-8
1 large rack of pork chops, bones in
4 tablespoons butter
1⁄2 yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 1⁄2 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups panko bread crumbs
2 cups
2 cups roasted pecans, chopped
More kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Make A Father’s Day Meal Dad Can Savor
Families celebrate Dad in unique ways on Father’s Day. Gifts are customary, but so is a delicious meal Dad will love. Many dads will appreciate a meal that goes above and beyond the ordinary, preferably something that is hearty and delicious. These “Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) are a great dish to serve family style when everyone gathers around the table for Father’s Day.
Directions:
Clean the rack of pork well and cut in between the bones to get thick individual pork chops. Cut a large slit down the back side of each chop and insert the tip of a knife 2 to 3 inches inside the chop to create a pocket for the stuffing. Do not poke completely through the pork or the stuffing will not stay in. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery and garlic until the onion has slightly softened. Add the chicken stock, salt and cayenne and bring to a light simmer. Pour the contents into a mixing bowl and add the panko bread crumbs and pecans. Mix together and let cool to room temperature. Stuff as much of the mixture into each pork chop as will fit (overstuffing is okay, too). Sprinkle both sides of each chop with salt and pepper to taste, then roast in a preheated 400 F oven for 12 minutes. Turn the chops over once and roast an additional 15 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Cook to medium, or 135 to 140 F.
The Ultimate Guide To Dads’ Day Dining
Father’s Day is a time to honor fathers and father figures. Dads often do so much to support and love their families without much fanfare, making Father’s Day the perfect chance to treat them to something special — often a delicious meal.
According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending was expected to reach a record $24 billion in 2025, up from $22.4 billion in 2024 and surpassing the previous record of $22.9 billion set in 2023. Special outings remain one of the most popular gift choices, showing that many families prefer creating memories together over traditional presents. As families plan to celebrate Dad this year, dining out remains a thoughtful and popular way to mark the occasion.
• Classic steakhouse: A reservation at a steakhouse is always a solid choice. These restaurants are sophisticated and intimate, with broad menu appeal. Since steakhouses tend to be pricier, planning ahead is important.
• Casual barbecue: For a laid-back dad, a relaxed BBQ spot with a patio can be ideal. Pulled pork, slow-smoked ribs, or a brisket sandwich with a cold beer make for a memorable Father’s Day meal.
• Seafood lover: Dads who love seafood may appreciate a restaurant with a strong seafood menu, especially one located on the water. Options range from upscale dining to casual fish fry spots.
• Gastropub: Many pubs combine great food with rotating craft brews. An artisanal burger paired with a pretzel and an IPA or stout can make for the perfect celebration.
New York Blood Center Declares Blood Emergency As Blood Supply Nears Critical Level
New York Blood Center (NYBC) has declared a blood emergency as supplies have hit a critical low, dropping to less than a two-day supply overall and below a one-day supply for type O blood, the most critical type used in emergency care. These levels are particularly concerning given the challenges presented by upcoming special events and the summer “trauma season” that typically increases the need for blood. We are calling on our dedicated New York community to roll up their sleeves and support us in rebuilding our inventory to ensure we can meet the needs of our hospitals and support emergency mass-casualty preparedness. All blood types are desperately needed, but Types A-, B-, and O+/O- have hit dangerously low levels in the region.
Dangerously Low Blood Supply Levels
Blood donations are down nearly 15%, representing approximately 4,500 fewer donations than needed to meet hospital demand across the region. The shortfall comes on the heels of Memorial Day weekend, when donations traditionally decline due to travel, vacations, school breaks, and holiday activities. Spring donations have failed to rebound as expected following a difficult winter season. Without consistent blood donors, the blood supply remains in crisis.
“Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer and ‘trauma season,’ and this has been one of the most challenging periods we’ve faced in years,” said Jeannie Mascolino, Vice President of Operations at New York Blood Center. “We are already thousands
of donations behind where we would like to be heading into one of our most difficult periods, and hospital demand is increasing across the country. Donor support in the coming weeks will be critical to helping hospitals maintain a stable blood supply for patients who depend on transfusions every day.”
Summer Trauma Season
Summer is notoriously known as “trauma season,” when hospitals typically see a rise in serious injuries, including car crashes and other emergencies requiring large volumes of blood. Trauma patients can require dozens, sometimes hundreds, of blood transfusions in a matter of hours.
In New York State alone, more than 56,000 traumatic injuries are reported each year, many of which occur during weekends and throughout the summer months due to increased travel, outdoor recreation, and holiday activities.
This year, that time of increased need will coincide with logistical challenges as New York and New Jersey welcome tourists for the FIFA World Cup and other major events.
Blood cannot be manufactured and has a limited shelf life, meaning hospitals rely on a steady stream of donors to meet daily demand. A blood emergency means the available supply has dropped below safe levels to meet routine and urgent patient needs. For trauma centers, where patients may require large volumes of blood within minutes, maintaining an adequate supply is critical for patient care.
“With the increase in travel and gatherings this summer, we expect to see an increase in injuries requiring blood transfusions,” New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “We want to ensure that patients who are suffering from traumatic injuries, undergoing surgery, or fighting cancer can get the blood they need in an emergency. I urge you to consider the selfless act of donating blood – just one donation can help multiple people – so roll up your sleeve and give the gift of life during this time of need.”
Clinicians at Level I Trauma Centers and local blood recipients are echoing the call for donors.
“In trauma care, seconds matter—and so does immediate access to blood,” said Dr. Christopher Tedeschi, an emergency medicine physician at NewYork-Presbyterian/ Columbia University Irving Medical Center. “Summer emergencies can drive sudden spikes in demand, with critically injured patients needing massive transfusions within minutes. A strong blood supply makes it possible for us to deliver lifesaving care when every second counts.”
“As a trauma surgeon, I have personally seen, many times, a critically injured patient’s life saved using donated blood products,” said Dr. Matthew Bank, Executive Director, Northwell
Trauma Institute. “These patients are sons and brothers, daughters and sisters, husbands and wives. The people who donate blood are also members of our community family who give of themselves to help others in need. It is a rare opportunity when our community can come together to directly save the lives of trauma patients. For anyone who has been “on the fence” regarding blood donation, I would implore them to go to their nearest donor center. In the blink of an eye, anyone can become a trauma patient, so the life you save might be a member of your own family or even your own. “
“Maintaining a stable blood supply is essential, and we are committed to helping the New York Blood Center raise awareness of the urgent need for donations,” said Devika Mathrani, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at NewYork-Presbyterian. “One blood donation can save up to three lives, and we encourage everyone who is eligible to donate regularly.”
“Blood Center blood donations are essential to patient care across our health system,” said Kathleen Blaney, MPH, RN, Assistant Vice President of Clinical Lab and Communicable Diseases at NYC Health + Hospitals. “We encourage all eligible donors to make an appointment and
give blood, especially as we head into the summer months when maintaining adequate inventory becomes increasingly challenging. A strong blood supply is a shared community responsibility and remains critical to saving lives across New York City and the surrounding region.”
Stories like Emily Miethner’s underscore how quickly blood is needed in medical emergencies.
“Donated blood saved my life. In an emergency, there’s no substitute. It’s there because someone chose to give selflessly,” said Emily Miethner, a blood recipient who required 19 emergency transfusions following traumatic childbirth complications. “That’s why I donate today and encourage others to make it part of their routine. You never know when someone’s life will depend on it.” Watch Emily share her remarkable story.
New York Blood Center is asking all eligible donors, especially those with type O blood, to schedule an immediate appointment to donate. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month.
To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.
Call The Classifi eds 631-226-2636 Ext. 276
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.
631-226-2636 Pres s
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.
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. 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.
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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.
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External Diploma Program
Tricks For Planning Your Summer Getaway
Summer’s warm weather and relaxed pace make it a favorite season for travel. However, planning a getaway during peak vacation season can be challenging. These tips can help:
• Identify blackout dates. Mark camps, sports, and other commitments on the calendar first to determine when travel is possible.
• Plan early. Research destinations, compare costs, and book as soon as you find a good deal to save money and avoid lastminute stress.
• Check work schedules. Confirm coworkers are not already scheduled off and discuss plans with supervisors before booking.
• Delegate tasks. Share responsibilities such as booking transportation, planning activities, and organizing meals to make vacation planning easier.
• Set price alerts. Travel websites can notify you when fares or lodging rates drop to fit your budget.
The National External Diploma Program offers adults 21 and over, the opportunity to receive credit for their life experiences, and earn a high school equivalency diploma without the challenge of taking lengthy timed examinations. NEDP, is a competency based program for students who are unable to attend classes or who prefer to work at home. Successful candidates for NEDP include former ESL students, students who have been out of school for prolonged periods of time, or students who fare better without the structure of tests. This program is an alternative to other programs.
Anyone interested should call Western Suffolk BOCES to meet with a counselor. Call 667-6000, Ext. 327 to register.
TO PLACE YOUR AD PLEASE CALL 631-226-2636
JUNE HAPPENINGS
FRIDAY, JUNE 5th
10:00AM–1:00PM
FIRST FRIDAY AUTHOR SERIES
Jack Jack’s Coffee House, 223 Deer Park Avenue in Babylon Village. Free and open to the public. Signed books, coffee, and light fare will be available for purchase. The First Friday Author Series is a monthly literary gathering. Each month features a local Long Island author who will be available throughout the event to chat with visitors, sign books, and enjoy relaxed conversation over coffee. Featured Author for This Month: AwardWinning Travel Writer, Irvina Lew, and her book Forays in France. For more information, Misslaffsalot48@ gmail.com
SATURDAY, JUNE 6th
10:00AM-4:00PM YARD SALE
Farmingdale United Methodist Church Main & Grant Streets in Farmingdale. Huge variety of new, used & Vintage Items! Don't miss out! For more informaion, please contact the church office 516-694-3424
SATURDAY, JUNE 6th
7:00PM
SUNDAY, JUNE 7th
4:00PM
DEMOCRACY 250
The Babylon Chorale, eVoco Mixed Ensemble and Manhasset Choirs present “Democracy 250” – a concert featuring two commissioned works by Michael Bussewitz-Quarm and Barndon A. Boyd with chorus and orchestra, at Manhasset Secondary School Auditorium, 200 Memorial Place, Manhasset. Tickets can be purchased
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
online at www.evoco.vc. For more information, see www.evoco.vc or www.babylonchorale.org
thru SUNDAY, JUNE 7th
MIDWAY HOURS: 5-10 pm Monday - Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11 pm Saturday, noon-10 pm Sunday. Aqua Live Spectacular showtimes are 7 pm and 9 pm daily, with an additional 3 pm performance on Saturday and Sunday.
SOUTH SHORE MALL CARNIVAL
South Shore Mall, 1701 Sunrise Hwy. in Bay Shore. Thrills galore are in store at this family-friendly annual event, from exciting midway rides and games for all ages to the Aqua Live Spectacular water stunt show starring enchanting aerialist mermaids, "The Hurricane" waverunner jet ski and more -- plus plenty of palate-pleasing carnival eats. Please visit the website, for more information https:// dreamlandamusements.com/
SUNDAY, JUNE 7th
9:00AM-3:00PM
TRUCKFEST 2026
ATHS Long Island Chapter presents: 3rd Annual TRUCKFEST 2026. The Maples-10 Ryerson Ave. in Manorville. All Makes, Models and Year Trucks. People's Choice for Antique and Modern Truck Raffles & 50/50. Portion of Proceeds to benefit Lighthouse Mission. Please call Laurie for information 631-3393065
TUESDAY, JUNE 9th
7:00PM
REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
7150 Republic Airport, Room 201, in Farmingdale. For information call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email: contactus@republicairport.net
FRIDAY, JUNE 12th
10:00AM-1:00PM THRIFT SHOP BAG SALE
Simpson United Methodist Church, 30 Locust Ave. in Amityville. $5 bag sale for clothing. For more information, please call Mary at 516991-8098
SATURDAY, JUNE 13th
10:00AM-4:00PM
AMITYVILLE KIWANIS CRAFT & ANTIQUE FAIR
Rain date: June 20th. 10am - 4pm Amityville Beach Pavilion, 398 So. Bayview Ave in the James Caples Memorial Park. Huge annual event. Come shop for beautiful creations, handmade treasures and scrumptious treats plus eclectic antiques. Plus, there will be raffle baskets & refreshments. You'll find lots of things to buy for Dad's and Grad's while supporting the Amityville community. FREE gift for the 1st 50 shoppers. For more information please contact: AmityvilleKiwanisCraftFair@gmail. com
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24th
3:30PM-8:00PM
NY BLOOD DRIVE
Christ Lutheran Church, 117 Carleton Ave. in Islip Terrace. For moreinformation, please call 631581-1710
