March 18, 2026 Seaford

Home renovations are wildly popular, and that popularity can be traced to a number of factors. Some homeowners renovate their homes with their own comfort in mind, while others do so to improve the resale value of the property. For those in the latter group, a recognition of renovations that yield the highest return on investment may help them decide which projects to pursue. According to the housing market research and analytics firm Zonda Media, a garage door replacement offered the highest return on investment in the American real estate market in 2024, earning a whopping 194 percent return on homeowners’ initial investment. An entry door replacement with steel door offered the second best ROI at 188 percent of homeowners’ initial investment, while replacing siding with stone veneer was third on the list with an average ROI of 153 percent.

A Spring Lawn Revitalization Strategy

New growth is a hallmark of spring, whether it plays out in the birth of birds and bunnies or with the returned buds on trees and plant stalks. While most greenery rebounds naturally, lawns may need a little extra TLC in order to return to their once lush, green glory.

Revitalizing a lawn in spring is a multifaceted process but can be well worth the reward when green grass adds to a beautiful landscape and functional yard. Here is how to get started when the weather warms, courtesy of The Farmer’s Almanac and The Home Depot.

• Clean up debris. Spend a few hours raking up leaves from the lawn and removing any other winter debris like twigs so that air can reach the grass below. Also remove any thatch that has developed.

• Test the soil. Take a sample of the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient needs. Then you can make adjustments to set a strong foundation for the lawn to grow.

• Do some weeding. Pull out any weeds that have poked through early on and apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent additional weeds from taking over.

• Start the aeration process. A core

Annual Spring Egg Hunt At Belmont Lake State Park

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to announce that the 30th annual Spring Egg Hunt at Belmont Lake State Park will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 12:00pm-3:00pm The rain date for this event is Sunday, March 29, 2026 from 12:00pm-3:00pm.

The egg hunts will take place on the open field and will begin at 12:15pm. Additional hunts will occur at 15 minute intervals with the last one at 2:45pm. The hunts will be divided into three age categories: ages 4 & under; ages 5 & 6 and ages 7-9. There is a 3 egg limit per child per hunt to ensure everyone goes home with a special treat. Please bring a small bag or basket for your child to put their eggs in.

In addition to the egg hunt, there will be food

vendors and free children’s activities including a petting zoo, pony rides, educational display by the Environmental Department, Spin the Wheel for a prize at the Park Information Booth, funny photos and inflatables. You can also visit and take pictures with the Spring Bunny in our Bunny Den.

This event is supported by the Natural Heritage Trust and co-sponsored by radio stations WBAB (102.3FM) and WBLI (106.1FM), Renewal by Andersen, and

NY

Life.

Belmont Lake State Park is located in North Babylon at Exit 38N on the Southern State Parkway. For additional information, please call The Regional Recreation Department at (631) 321-3510, weekdays from 9:00AM-5:00PM, or Belmont Lake State Park at (631) 667-5055.

Connect with the Long Island Region Recreation Department on Facebook or Instagram for the most up to date information.

thin areas so that the seed will fill in the lawn.

• Water consistently. It is important to water the lawn deeply and consistently, especially when the weather is dry, to help promote strong root development.

• Time fertilizer correctly. Apply a spring fertilizer around three weeks after the lawn starts to turn green or after the first two or three mowings. If fertilizer is applied too early it can feed weeds instead of the grass and result in fertilizer runoff.

punches holes into the soil. This enables air and water to penetrate through to the roots.

• Overseed the lawn. Apply grass seeds over the lawn, paying special attention to any bare or

• Mow to an appropriate height. Begin to mow when the ground is dry enough and the grass is long enough to need cutting. Leave some length to the lawn; otherwise, sunlight will reach the soil and encourage weed seeds to germinate.

With a little elbow grease at the start of spring, homeowners can establish strong and healthy lawns.

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INFORMATION:

MARCH HAPPENINGS

THURSDAY, MARCH 19th

7:00PM

BAY SHORE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MARCH MEETING

The Bay Shore Historical Society will meet at the Bay ShoreBrightwaters Public Library, 1 South Country Rd., in Brightwaters. The meeting is open to the public at no charge. Refreshments will be served. Learn more at: https:// www.bayshorehistoricalsociety.org/ programs-news

TUESDAY, MARCH 24th

2:30PM-5:00PM

THE HELPING HANDS EASTER DRIVE 944 West Bay 9th in the BBEA clubhouse. Collecting Easter baskets, novelty items, candy, and candy filled eggs. Jennifer Gallozzi President Founder Volunteer, Helping Hands in West Islip, Inc. For more information, contact jennifergallozzi@gmail. com, or https://www.facebook.com/ share/1JViuobMTE/

SATURDAY, MARCH 28th

11:00AM

EASTER EGG HUNT & MEET THE EASTER BUNNY

The 2026 Annual Farmingdale Village Easter Egg Hunt & Meet the Easter Bunny on the Village Green (361 Main St). Attendees should arrive by 10:45 AM with their own baskets. The event is free, family-friendly, and features photos with the Easter Bunny at the gazebo. For more information, contact Farmingdale Village, www.farmingdalevillage. gov; Facebook events page: www. facebook.com/farmingdale11735 www.farmingdalebid.com, or call 516-249-0093

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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

12:00PM

EASTER EGG HUNT

Join the Fun!! Outdoor Easter Egg Hunt followed by a contest and more!! St. John’s Lutheran Church 36 E. John Street in Lindenhurst. Bring A Friend!! Please bring your own basket. In case of rain, the show will go on indoors. Meet The Easter Bunny!

7:30PM

Gene DiNapoli Presents THE LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE

BEATLES TRIBUTE BAND

At the Bayway Arts Center, 265 East Main Street in East Islip, The Liverpool Shuffle, originally formed in 2003 by Joe Refano, (formerly of Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone and Micky Dolenz’ Monkees Band), THE LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE brings together veterans of the New York Music Scene with a combined 200 years of musical experience between them. THE LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE provides a fun, entertaining LIVE BEATLE SHOW with a real emphasis on THE MUSIC. They play it the way The Beatles did! For more information, please call 631-5812700

SUNDAY, MARCH 29th

1:00PM-5:00PM KiDS NEED MoRE

SPRING VENDOR FAIR

American Legion Hall, 80 Herbert Avenue in Lindenhurst. Setup begins 11:00 AM. Local vendors, shopping, raffles. Pictures with the Easter Bunny. Kids games and Spring Activities. Free Admission. Vendors wanted. Questions? info®kidsneedmore.

org,kidsneedmore.org, Website: www.kidsneedmore.org/vendors or call 631-608-3135

TUESDAY, MARCH 31st

ARRIVE BEFORE 8:30AM BUS TRIP TO WIND CREEK CASINO BETHLEHEM, PA

Hosted by Joseph Barry Columbiettes. $60 pp, includes driver’s tip. Give Back: $35 slot play. Return approx. 8:30 p.m. Parking: 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (dead end) For more information, and reservations. please call Barbara at 516-935-5576

3:00PM-7:00PM BLOOD DRIVE

Deputy Minority Leader Drucker, Jericho Library Host Blood Drive, at the Jericho Public Library, located at 1 Merry Lane in Jericho. Eligible donors must have an ID with a signature or a photo, weigh at least 110 pounds, have had no tattoos in the last 12 months and be ages 16-75 years of age (16-year-old donors must have parental consent. Donors over age 76 must bring a doctor’s note). O-negative and B-negative donors are especially needed in addition to all other blood types. Appointments are preferred; walk-ins will be taken as capacity permits. Limited appointments to make double red cell donations are available. Call 1-800-93-BLOOD (25663) or visit https://donate. nybc.org/donor/schedules/ drive_schedule/331396 to make an appointment. For more information, contact Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office 516-571-6216 or adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov

Spring Has (Almost) Sprung

By JoAnn Cilla

Today, as I write this article, I am staring at 30 inches of snow in my backyard. But underneath it all is green grass and new flowers just waiting to make an appearance!

After a long winter, you can feel it happening. The days are getting a little longer, the sun is bringing more warmth, and people are starting to come out of hibernation mode. Spring isn’t officially here yet, but we should throw it a tickertape parade when it arrives.

For residents, spring is the perfect season for a reset. Open the windows. Take a walk through your neighborhood and see if you notice any changes. When people are outside, communities feel safer, friendlier, and more connected.

Spring is also the perfect time for what I call “life maintenance.” Schedule the annual physical you put off in January (email me and I will tell you firsthand why this is so important). Clean out closets. Tackle small home repairs before they become expensive ones. And if you’ve been thinking about selling your home this year, now is the time to start preparing.

Don’t wait until the first “For Sale” sign goes up down the block.

Spring buyers begin browsing early. They’re online now, driving through neighborhoods and forming opinions.

Homes that look cared for with fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, clean walkways, and good lighting will immediately stand out.

You don’t need a full-blown renovation, just a nice presentation that makes buyers want to learn more about your home.

For local business owners, spring is your opportunity window. Customers come out when

the weather gets nicer. People are more optimistic, more social, and more willing to spend. But they won’t automatically spend money with you; you must invite them.

Like homeowners trying to attract buyers, start with visibility. Update your storefront. Clean your windows. Refresh signage. Post consistently on social media…even simple photos of your team preparing for spring. Customers support businesses they recognize and like.

Next, reconnect with your customer list. Send a “Welcome to Spring” email or postcard. Offer a seasonal promotion, host a small instore event, or partner with another nearby business. Collaboration works. When local businesses work together, everyone benefits.

Finally, business owners should treat this season as planning time. Revenue for summer and fall is often determined by the steps you take in the previous winter. Review your pricing, inventory, staffing, and marketing before potential spikes in the demand for your products or services.

Every year, spring gives our community a natural momentum boost. The residents who prepare early enjoy their homes more. The businesses that act early grow more. It’s that simple. I can’t wait to see everyone around town this month.

7 Activities To Commemorate The Spring Equinox

The beginning of spring is cause for celebration. In many areas of the world, the start of spring marks the end of cold temperatures and hours spent indoors, a shift in conditions that is welcomed by millions each year.

Spring is a time of rebirth when flowers and trees bloom anew and animals bear new young. Spring is an exciting and busy time, and one that people can commemorate in many unique ways. Here are seven ideas to usher in spring this March.

1. Fill a home or business with flowers. Collect some early tulip or daffodil blooms and place them around the house. Offer bouquets of dandelions to children or weave them into flower crowns.

2. Spend time in nature. It’s time to get outside, and there is no better time to do so than the beginning of spring. Soak up the sun and temperate climate, which can be good for your physical and mental well-being.

3. Visit a loved one. Bring some sunshine to an elderly relative by visiting with him or her. Take a stroll outside or sit on a bench and enjoy a picnic.

4. Prepare the garden by cleaning out weeds and tilling the soil. Some early spring preparation ensures everything will be ready when planting time arrives.

5. Prepare an outdoor feast. Whether it’s a picnic or a barbecue, serve up a warm-weather feast

with salads, sandwiches and other dishes that are normally served outdoors.

6. Sow some seeds. Encourage each member of your household to pick a favorite plant or flower and sow it in celebration of the first day of spring. It’s possible to make a special spring garden with perennials that will bloom each year.

7. Make spring-related crafts. Colorful wreaths, centerpieces and garlands can bring some of the natural wonders of spring indoors.

The first day of spring is an opportunity to enjoy what makes the season so special. Celebrate the new season with plenty of creative ideas.

PopularSidin Sidin g Materials

Few home renovation projects can change the look of a home as significantly as new siding. New siding can make a home look brand new, and a new color can dramatically change the perception of a home. As homeowners begin to consider siding replacement projects, they might be surprised to learn their options in relation to materials are so numerous. Though it’s great to have options, it also can be difficult to pick a material when there are so many products to choose from. Vinyl, fiber cement and wood are three popular siding materials, and understanding the characteristics of each can help homeowners make more informed decisions.

• Vinyl. Vinyl siding has long been among the most popular siding materials. The National Association of Home Builders notes that popularity has declined in recent years, with the market share of vinyl siding dropping 5 percent over the last decade and nearly 13 percent over the last 20 years. Despite that declining popularity, vinyl remains a strong option for many homeowners due to its affordability and minimal maintenance requirements. Consumer Reports also notes that vinyl siding is impervious to insects and water, an attribute that’s highly appealing to many homeowners.

• Fiber cement. Consumer Reports notes that fiber cement siding blends cement, sand and cellulose. Many homeowners

like fiber cement siding because of its aesthetic appeal, as it looks like real wood without the vulnerabilities associated with wood. The home renovation experts at This Old House report that fiber cement siding has exceptional durability and offers great resistance to environmental factors like harsh weather, UV rays and moisture. Fiber cement siding also is a low-maintenance, insectresistant option that won’t warp or rot. Fiber cement siding is not easily installed, which contributes to a higher overall cost.

• Wood. Siding materials don’t get much more traditional than wood. It shouldn’t surprise homeowners to learn that wood siding can warp or rot, and anything made from wood can be vulnerable to insects. However, well-maintained wood siding can be very durable and certain types are less vulnerable to rot than others. Local climate will affect which wood siding options are best for a given area. Many see wood siding as characteristic of a high-end home, making the somewhat higher price tag compared to vinyl siding easier to justify.

There’s no right or wrong decision when choosing siding materials for a home. Homeowners are urged to do their homework, including studying cost and the local climate, before choosing a material for their home.

Seaford Students Roll Up Their Sleeves And Give Blood

In a space where students learn how to lead healthy lives, they were doing their part to save lives on March 6. The Seaford High School student council hosted its annual blood drive in the gymnasium in partnership with the New York Blood Center.

More than 80 students registered to donate

throughout the day and a few teachers and staff dropped by as well during free periods to contribute to the region’s blood supply. There were stations where students could donate a pint of blood as well as three machines that separated blood into its components. Two units of red blood cells were collected while plasma and platelets were returned to the donor.

The student council, under the direction of advisers Tania Cintorino and Savannah Weilert, promoted the blood drive during lunch periods and encouraged students to sign up during the preceding two weeks. They had to be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental permission.

During the event, student council juniors and seniors signed in donors, while freshmen and sophomores served as escorts. They brought students to the donation area, and then to the snack table when finished where the donors were provided with water, juice, cookies and chips.

This year’s theme was “Raise a green flag on saving lives,” as green in the color for go. The goal was to encourage people to stop making excuses for not donating blood and instead take the step to save up to three lives.

“The blood drive brings

people together who want to help the community,” student council President Olivia Anzelone said.

Senior Carmelo Riccobono, who donated for the second time, had a personal reason for being there. His father required blood following an injury about five years ago.

“That’s why I donate,” he said. “I recognize the importance of it. It’s just something good to do for people who need it.”

Senior Brian Falk added, “I donate blood because it’s special to me that I have the opportunity to save lives.”

Long Island St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Celebrate Irish heritage and local spirit! From parades to eats, drinks, and shopping, support neighborhood businesses while enjoying festive fun. Parades are happening almost every weekend in March, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate, and keep it local.

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Brentwood – Annual Parade, 1 PM starting at Washington Avenue & Clark Street, ending at Ross Park. Rockville Centre – 30th

Annual Parade, 12 PM, beginning near North Sunrise Highway municipal parking area.

Lindenhurst – 5th Annual Parade, 12 PM. 2026 Parade Grand Marshal Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney.

Hampton Bays – Annual Parade, 11 AM, starting at the American Legion on Ponquogue Avenue.

Sunday, March 22, 2026

Ronkonkoma – 36th

Annual Parade, 2 PM, beginning at AMVETS Post 48 on Hawkins Avenue.

Patchogue Village –Annual Parade, 12 PM, through downtown along Main Street.

Glen Cove – 38th Annual Parade, 1 PM, through downtown streets and Village Square.

Babylon Village – 4th Annual Parade, 2 PM, — led by this year’s Grand Marshal,

dance instructor Patti Love. Parade route from Deer Park Avenue south toward Main Street.

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Jamesport – 12th Annual Parade, 1 PM, from North Railroad & Washington Avenues to the firehouse.

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Montauk – 64th Annual Parade, 12 PM, along Edgemere Street and Main Street.

Spring Cleaning Tips And Ticks

Spring is a time of year when change is in the air. Trees are budding, plants are flowering, and homes laden with dark or heavy fabrics and clutter could use some lightening up. Spring cleaning projects are popular this time of year as residents take inventory of their living spaces and aim to declutter, clean and increase efficiency. Some people find the prospect of getting organized overwhelming. Here are some tips that can help anyone master spring cleaning.

• Create a plan. Make a checklist and establish a cleaning plan of attack. Focus on areas that are not regularly cleaned, as they probably need a little attention.

• Assemble your cleaning kit. Spring cleaning can be slowed down considerably if you don’t have all of your equipment at the ready. Items to have on hand include an all-purpose cleaner, concentrated cleaner, microfiber cloths, paper towels, mop, vacuum, dusters, and a squeegee. Adjust your equipment based on the task at hand.

• Curate your cleaning playlist. Create a playlist with songs that will get you moving and motivated to clean.

of their homes. Use a carpet cleaner on a warm, dry day so that windows can be opened and cross breezes will help dry the damp rug.

• Clean windows. Wash windows inside and out and utilize their screens to help brighten indoors spaces.

• Deep clean the kitchen. Clean out and disinfect the refrigerator by wiping it down with warm water and baking soda or a vinegar-and-water solution. While in the kitchen, set the oven to the self-clean function so it becomes cleaner as well.

• Work from top to bottom. Work efficiently by cleaning shelves, ceiling fans and other elevated items first, as dust and debris will trickle down and need to be cleaned next.

• Purchase or rent a carpet cleaner. According to the experts at Clean That Up, carpets help filter indoor air by trapping debris and allergens. By deep cleaning carpets, homeowners can improve the indoor air quality

Homeowners also can focus on cleaning curtains (including shower curtains), steam-cleaning upholstery, removing clutter from closets, cleaning out the dryer vent and duct tubing, wiping inside kitchen drawers, and vacuuming under beds and other furniture.

Spring cleaning can bring the revitalizing nature of this beloved time of year into your home.

• Wide Selection Of Trusted Brands Offering Options For All Price Points

• Expansive Showroom To See And Select Materials For Your Upcoming Project

• In-House Designer Available To Assist With Material Selection And Provide 3d Renderings

• Dedicated Project Manager Assigned To Oversee Each Renovation From Start To Finish

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SERVICES Residential Comm ercial SPRING CLEANUP S WEEKLY LAWN MAINTENANCE NEW LAWNS SOD, TOP SOIL , MULCH, AERAT ION, FLO WER BED SHRUB PL ANTING TREE PRUNING & TRI MMING CALL

OF LANDSCAPING & LAWN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE. MULCH, TOP SOIL, SEED, & TREE TRIMMING O-ROD LANDS CA PING

(631) 294 0277

W ANT your phone to rr rr ring? Place an ad in Classified!

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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Grief And Loss Peer-Led Support Group

First Thursday Of Every Month, 6:30 P.M. To 7:30 P.M.

Gabriel’s Giving Tree (GGT), along with the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD), Families in Support of Treatment (FIST), Family & Children’s Association, (FCA) and Human Understanding and Growth Services (HUGS) are joining together to

offer a free grief and loss peer-led support group. The group will meet at the East End THRIVE location, at 680 Elton Street, Riverhead, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. The focus of the support group will be to explore ways to find comfort, share support and begin

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healing for those who have lost a loved one.

“Losing a loved one can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone,” said Paulette Phililppe, founder of Gabriel’s Giving Tree. For more information, call Paulette at 631-7860368.

Long Island State Parks Celebrates Women’s History Month

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to celebrate Women’s History Month at Long Island State Parks.

This month-long celebration highlights several notable women in history and their accomplishments through informative posters and pictures. We invite you to visit us to learn more about these great women and their impact on history and culture.

Displays and programs throughout the month of March are at the following Long Island State Park locations:

Nissequogue River State Park –Charles & Helen Reichert Administration Building, Kings Park

Display open daily 8:00am – 4:00pm, for more information call 631-269-4927

Jones Beach State Park, Administration Building, Wantagh

Display open daily 7:00am – 4:30pm, for information call 516-785-1600

Hempstead Lake State Park

Environmental Education and Resiliency Center, West Hempstead

Open daily 9:00am – 4:00pm, for information call 516-766-1029

• Paths of Presence: Women, Wilderness, and Walking with Intention (Adult Program, 18+), Saturday, March 21, 2026, 11:00am – 1:00pm

being offered through our Long Island State Parks Environmental Education Department: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Oakdale

• Recognizing Women’s Right to Vote in NY State, Sunday, April 12, 2026, 1:30pm – 3:00pm

o On November 6, 1917, women won the right to vote in NY State. Join us for this special America250 program to hear Town of Islip Historian George Munkenbeck share the history of local Long Island suffragists. Also on display will be a travelling exhibit provided by the Long Island Library Resources Council.

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

OPERATIONS MANAGER (West Babylon, NY) Oversee construction co.’s bus. oper’ns, formulate policies & manage daily oper’ns. Coord admin activities directly rltd to providing svcs to ensure qlty compliance, cost effectiveness, & customer satisfaction. Prep staff work schedules. Review n’l stmts, & other performance rltd reports to measure the co.’s efficiency & productivity. Increase n’l & operational efficiency by dvlpg & implmtg budgets & setting n’l goals & strategies. Bachelor’s

o Join us at Hempstead Lake State Park for a Women’s History Month Walk celebrating women on the trails! Learn about the history of women’s hiking while practicing simple nature meditation to experience the benefits of being outdoors.

Programs are $4.00 per person upon arrival. No parking fee is in effect. Each person in your party needs a ticket. Space is limited. If you are unable to keep your reservation, please cancel so others may have the opportunity to attend the program. Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes early. We will meet in the Environmental Education and Resiliency Center in Field 1 of Hempstead Lake State Park. To register: https://www. eventbrite.com/o/hempstead-lake-statepark-environmental-educationandresiliency-center-38733458463

Jones Beach Energy & Nature CenterWest End 2, Wantagh

Display open daily 9:00am - 4:30pm, for information call 516-809-8222

• Women Nature Writers (All ages; FREE program), Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11:00am – 12:30pm

o Join one of our educators at this free event to celebrate Women’s History Month by learning about one of history’s most talented nature writers and practice writing your very own piece inspired by our local environment.

To register: www.jonesbeachenc.org/ programs

Additionally, there will be specially themed lecture programs and workshops

A Rundown O On Countertops

Kitchen renovations continue to top the list of improvements that offer a high rate of return on investment. Buyers pay attention to kitchens, which undoubtedly affects the ROI of kitchen renovations. According to the Journal of Light Construction’s “Cost vs. Value Report 2025,” a minor kitchen remodel offers an ROI of 113 percent, while a midrange remodel offers an ROI of 51 percent. Replacing a kitchen countertop can help homeowners see improvements to the functionality of their spaces and improve the value of their homes.

According to data from Grand View Research, the U.S. countertops market is projected to reach $35.57 billion in 2026, driven by homeowners who desire high-value renovations over relocating. Those thinking about overhauling their spaces with new countertops can consider the leading materials and how they rank in cost, maintenance and durability.

• Engineered quartz. The National Kitchen & Bath Association reports that 78 percent of design professionals expect quartz to be the preferred countertop material over the next several years. Quartz is non-porous, so it will resist stains, scratches and bacteria infiltration without having to be sealed. Unlike natural stone, quartz offers pattern uniformity, which makes it easier to map out seamless transitions. Quartz costs between $50 and $150 per square foot installed.

• Granite. Granite still holds a considerable chunk of the countertops market and remains a solid standard for those who value a one-of-a-kind look of natural stone. Granite has exceptional heat resistance and adds significant resale value. However, it requires periodic sealing to maintain its good looks. Costs range from $40 to $190 per square foot.

• Porcelain. Porcelain tiles and slabs are projected to become the fastest-growing segment

in the ceramic tiles market, according to reports from Yahoo Finance. High-precision printing technology enables porcelain to mimic rare marble and other stone with superior accuracy. Porcelain is even harder than granite and effectively impervious to UV rays. This makes the material a solid choice for outdoor kitchens. Plus, at a cost of $60 to $120 per square foot, it is competitive with other similar materials.

• Butcher block. Those who appreciate a soft, organic texture and “warmth” in their spaces can look to butcher block. Wood is making a comeback, as many homeowners are moving away from stark, white designs. Butcher block is self-healing, meaning scratches can be sanded out. Butcher block costs between $50 and $150 per square foot.

• Laminate. Laminate is a budgetfriendly option for homeowners at $20 to $80 per square foot, but is not as durable as other materials. Some laminates mimic the look of high-end materials, and they don’t require much maintenance.

Countertops affect the look and feel of kitchens and other interior and exterior spaces. Choosing materials comes down to cost, durability and maintenance.

Lenten Traditions Explored

The Lenten season marks a period of 40 days when faithful Christians prepare for the glory of Easter Sunday. Easter commemorates the miracle of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, which is foundational for the Christian faith.

Lent is the 40-day period (not including Sundays) leading up to Easter. Lent begins on Feb. 18 and ends on Thursday, April 2.

Lent is a season when Christians reflect and prepare to celebrate Easter. Lent is a period of spiritual purification that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday. Fasting, giving alms and prayer are some of the hallmarks of Lent.

Many Lenten traditions are well known, but others are not. Here’s a glimpse at some of those traditions.

The first ‘Lent’

Lent is based on the 40 days that Jesus spent in the desert in preparation for his public life. Matthew 4:1-11 shares that Christ was led into the desert by the Holy Spirit for a period of fasting and prayer,

where He constantly encountered the devil and his temptations. Lent also mirrors the period of time (40 days) that the Israelites spent in their journey from slavery in Egypt to the promised land of Israel.

Black fasts

While certain Lenten restrictions have lightened up a bit in recent years, it once was the norm to consume a single meal per day of bread, water and herbs after sunset on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, which was known as a black fast. During the other days of Lent, no food was allowed until 3 p.m., which Christians believe was the hour of Our Lord’s death.

Piñatas for Lent?

The Lenten tradition of hitting a papier-mâché creation filled with candy originated in Italy. Eventually the idea was picked up by the Spanish and brought to Mexico, where the familiar piñatas now known to partygoers across the globe appeared. Professor Michael Foley, author of “Dining with the Saints,” says the original

piñata had seven cones to represent the seven deadly sins. Hitting the cones and defeating the sins revealed the heavenly reward in the form of candy.

Prayerful pretzels

In the early Middle Ages, when other foods were not allowed during Lent, pretzels became popular. The twisted shape of the pretzels was associated with arms entwined in prayer.

Hot cross buns

Hot cross buns are synonymous with Easter. Although they may predate Christianity and might have been a tradition adopted to make Christianity more relatable to the masses, one legend suggests they originated with a twelfth century Anglican monk. This monk reportedly baked the buns and marked them with crosses in honor of Good Friday. These yeasted sweet rolls have since become a popular treat on Easter weekend.

Lent precedes Easter each year and is full of time-honored traditions.