































![]()

































Legislator Steven J. Flotteron recognizes Town of Babylon (TOB) Supervisor Richard Schaffer, on receiving Scouting America Long Island’s “Heart of the Community” Award. Rich Schaffer has spent most of his professional career serving Babylon residents. Under his leadership, quality of life is a top priority which has resulted in a crackdown on businesses, homes and landlords that do not follow the Town Code. Other critical functions include eradicating abandoned homes and illegal activities such as drug use and alcohol sales to minors, as well as identifying and keeping tabs on sex offenders.
PUBLISHER
Jeff Lambert
ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER
CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION
Joe Lambert
Ethan Keattikul
Diana Lambert ADMINISTRATION
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Josh Marlowe
MANAGING EDITOR
Felicia Edwards
MARKETING MANAGER
Noelle Lambert
Teri Tinkler
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Victoria Kokolakis
Stephan Schulze
PROOFREADING
Kerry Mastrobuoni

Town of Babylon Councilman Terrence McSweeney presents a proclamation declaring March as Irish American Heritage Month to Ancient Order of Hibernians St.
ACCOUNT
EXECUTIVES
Carol Link
Nicole Sims
Kim Volz
Bonnie Schifano
Lucille Moran
Terry Rydyzynski
Noelle Lambert
SCAN HERE FOR MORE
INFORMATION:

Division 2 President Christopher Bradley and Vice President (and piper), Bob Farrell at Babylon Town Hall on March 11, 2026. AOH and LAOH members, Town of Babylon residents, and Supervisor Rich Schaffer were also in attendance. Photo courtesy of the Town of Babylon
As communities across the country celebrate St. Patrick’s season, members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Patrick’s Division 2 of Babylon attended a special ceremony at Babylon Town Hall on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, where the Town of Babylon officially proclaimed March as Irish American Heritage Month.
The proclamation was presented by Town Councilman Terrence McSweeney, a member of AOH St. Patrick’s Division 2, to Division President Christopher Bradley in recognition of the many contributions Irish Americans have made to the Town of Babylon and the nation.
The ceremony was
attended by numerous Town of Babylon residents, along with members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians (LAOH). Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer was also present for the presentation.
President Bradley expressed appreciation to the Town for recognizing the role Irish Americans have played in shaping the community.
“It’s an honor to be here to recognize the generations of Irish Americans who have given so much to our country, and especially the Town of Babylon,” Bradley said. “As we celebrate St. Patrick’s Division 2’s 80th anniversary this October, it coincides
with our country’s 250th anniversary, and we look forward to generations of Irish Americans as members of our Division.”
The Ancient Order of Hibernians, founded in the United States in 1836, is America’s oldest Irish Catholic fraternal organization. The organization promotes Irish heritage, faith and charitable service through its guiding motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Patrick’s Division 2 in Babylon continues that tradition through charitable work, cultural events and community service throughout the Town of Babylon.
These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on

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




































Windows are durable, but they do not last forever. The experts at This Old House say the life span of home windows is between 15 and 50 years, with most reaching the upper limits of their life expectancy at around 20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals begin to weaken or fail, and windows become susceptible to drafts and water seepage.
Replacing windows can be a good investment. Such a project is one of the more effective ways to elevate a home’s curb appeal and value. New windows are energy efficient and make homes more secure. They also tend to look better than old, fading windows. When pondering a window replacement project, it’s important to consider these factors.
• Know the window types. Double hung windows are classic and have operable upper and lower sashes. Lowering the upper sash allows warm air near the ceiling to escape and cooler air can to flow in through the bottom. Single hung windows only have an operable lower sash. Sliding windows have one or more panels that move horizontally, and picture windows are fixed models designed to offer wide, unobstructed views and lots of light.
• Repair or replace windows. Existing windows

might just need to be repaired, saving homeowners thousands of dollars. It’s best to consult with a professional to see if certain components can be repaired rather than replaced. Typically, rotten framing, wet or weeping windows or significant drafts require replacement.
• Identify the differences between replacement windows and construction windows. Traditional replacement windows are sometimes called pocket windows, says Consumer Reports.


They fit inside an existing window frame. Construction windows require the removal of the entire old window, including the frame, sill and trim. The latter cost more to install.
• Familiarize yourself with window frame materials. Various window frame materials are available for purchase, and variables such as heat transfer, maintenance and durability differ with each product. Vinyl is a common material that’s low-maintenance and affordable. Aluminum and aluminum clad windows can be economical options, and they are corrosionresistant and require little maintenance. Wood also is popular for the interior parts of a window, and offer a traditional look. Wood is available on new construction windows. Fiberglass windows also are available in new construction windows. They won’t crack, warp, rust, corrode, or peel, and the frames will not expand and contract as much as other materials.
• Keep costs in mind. According to Fixr, an online marketplace for local remodeling services, the average national price for a professional to replace a window is around $800. For a onestory house, a window replacement project of multiple windows may cost around $8,000.






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
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!
1:00PM-4:00PM
“SNEAK PEEK” AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED FREIGHT HOUSE
The Lindenhurst Historical Society invites all residents, friends, and neighbors to take a “sneak peek” at the newly renovated Freight House, one of the three buildings that make up the museum complex at Irmisch Historic Park, located at the intersection of South Broadway and South Third Street. The Old Village Hall Museum, which celebrated its grand reopening last July, will be opened as well and docents will be on hand to host visitors as they tour the entire site. Admission is free for


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
all museums; donations are gratefully accepted. For more information, please call 631-506-8431 or email lindenhursthistoricalsociety@gmail. com.
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 631-581-2700
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
2:00PM
LOVESONG FOR SUNRISE FUNDRAISER
Long Island band Lovesong will
headline a special event at The Nutty Irishman in Farmingdale to help raise funds for Sunrise Day Camp–Long Island, which provides summer camps, year-round programs, and in-hospital activities for children with cancer and their siblings — all offered free of charge. Tickets and more information can be found at: sunrisewalks.org/Lovesong. The mission of the Sunrise Association is to bring the joys of summer back to children diagnosed with cancer and their siblings, all completely free of charge.
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 Will host a Blood Drive, at the Jericho Public Library, located at 1 Merry Lane in Jericho. 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












Home ownership can be a rewarding endeavor and a good investment over time. But homes require consistent upkeep to ensure a property remains safe, a condition of ownership that renters typically do not need to concern themselves with. Foundation issues are a component of home ownership that can be easy to forget, as such concerns are not necessarily evident in frequently visited areas of a home. A foundation provides structural integrity for the entire home, so addressing damage is essential. The experts at This Old House indicate that some foundation issues can be relatively easy and inexpensive to address. Other issues may not be so simple, especially if they challenge the structural integrity of a home.
Learning to recognize foundation issues can help homeowners sort through small problems and big ones. But what are signs of foundation problems? Consider these potential issues, as noted by This Old House, Robbie Breaux & Team Real Broker, LLC and Bay Crawl Space Foundation Repair.
• Cracks in walls: Cracks appearing in foundation walls, drywall or plaster, especially diagonal or stair-step cracks forming near doorways, windows or corners, might be indicative of foundation movement. If a crack has formed in a living space, something is likely moving below since floors are supported from the foundation upward. Cracks thicker than onequarter of an inch in foundation
problem.
• Sagging porches and stoops: Notable sagging of porches or stoops can indicate that a house is sinking or changing faster than other areas.
• Separation between door and window frames and walls: Gaps can form around windows and doors if the foundation is shifting. The gaps that form can lead to water and pest infiltration if left untreated, causing even more issues.
• Cabinets and countertops separating from walls: Homeowners who notice considerable space forming between cabinets or countertops and the wall indicate that the frame of the home is out of square. That likely means a foundation is settling or sinking.
• Squeaky, bouncy or sagging floors: While these issues in floors may not always result from foundation issues, they often indicate that moisture has invaded the basement or crawl space. That moisture may have gained access through a cracked or compromised foundation.
• Leaning or cracked chimney: If a chimney resembles the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it could be a sign of possible foundation issues causing settling or sinking.
Bringing in a professional to assess potential foundation issues is a good idea.


Matzah features prominently in Passover celebrations. When the Israelites were fleeing Egypt after Pharoah released them from slavery, the bread they took along had no time to rise. The result was a flattened cracker called
matzah. In addition to eating matzah as their bread source throughout Passover, Jewish families hide a piece of matzah called the afikomen to find at the end of the Seder. A piece of matzah cracker is broken in half. One portion is enjoyed through
the Seder rituals and the other is the “dessert” that will be eaten at the end and conclude the ceremony. Hiding the afikomen helps ensure that children stay engaged until the end. Once found, the piece of matzah may be redeemed for a small gift.























































































































































































































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.
























24 S. Carll Ave. Babylon, NY Erin White 631.669.1624
***
ADULT PROGRAMS
Social Work Intern Wednesday, March 25, 4:00pm - 7:00pm Friday, March 27, 11:00am – 2:00pm Saturday, March 28, 10:00am – 4:00pm Sunday, March 29, 1:00pm – 4:00pm Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 4:00pm - 7:00pm Fridays, April 3, 10, 17, & 24, 11:00am – 2:00pm Saturdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 10:00am – 4:00pm Sundays, April 12, 19, & 26, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Meet with our social work intern for referrals to community organizations and agencies for mental health services, food insecurity, legal assistance, and more. Our intern can also assist with applications for government sponsored programs and services (unemployment benefits, housing, SNAP, etc.), including following up on applications. Drop in during scheduled hours or email for an appointment at: socialworker@babylon library.org.


Friday Films:
a handle to the lantern when design is completed. This beautiful lantern will be a prefect addition to your spring decor! A nonrefundable $5.00 fee is due at registration. This is an in-person program and take-home kits are not available.
Community Mental Health Promotion & Support Information Table
Tuesday, March 31, 11:00am -1:00pm Learn more about Community Mental Health Promotion and Support (COMHPS), a program of the NYS Office of Mental Health which aims to support community members with mental health needs. COMHPS provides emotional support, mental health workshops, support groups, referrals to licensed mental health professionals, and more. No registration required.
Adult Games
Mondays, April 6, 13, 20, & 27 1:00pm – 4:00pm
The Community Room is open for library patrons to play games of their own choosing. Patrons must bring their own games. New players are always welcome. Adults only. No registration required.
all-abilities program is geared for individuals with special needs, but all are welcome to attend. Adults and teens 16 and older only, please. Registration is required.
Evening Book
Discussion: All Creatures
Great and Small Thursday, April 9, 7:00pm – 7:45pm
We will be reading the book All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot. Copies will be available at the Adult Reference Desk. Please register for this program.
TEEN PROGRAMS
Teens Bedazzle a Book Cover Drop-in!
Wednesday (March 25), & Thursday (March 26) from 3:30–7:45pm
Bring your favorite book to the library and bedazzle the cover! Drop into the teen area Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday to make your own book shine. We’ll have the supplies for your bedazzling needs! Our social work intern, Jennifer, will be on hand Wednesday and Thursday to chat about bibliotherapy! Grades 6-12. No registration required, while supplies last.
Teens Dungeons & Dragons
Build a character, choose your weapons, and lay waste to nasty critters with a roll of the dice. New and experienced players welcome! Grades 6-12. Registration required.
All-Abilities Clothespin
Rainbow Wreath
Wednesday, April 8, 6:00pm – 7:00pm This wreath will look great in your house, especially after an April shower! This all-abilities program is geared for individuals with special needs, but all are welcome to attend. Adults and teens 16 and older only, please. Registration is required.
(NAPSI)—According to a recent Aware poll, most people use the same password across multiple accounts, which means that if a hacker has a password to one account, they can likely access several of that person’s accounts. For further facts, visit www.aware.com.
Writer’s Workshop Tuesdays, April 7 & 21 5:30pm – 7:45pm




Wicked: For Good Friday, March 27 2:00pm - 4:15pm We will be showing the film Wicked: For Good (2025). Rated PG. Running time: 137 minutes. Adults only, please. No registration required.
Pressed Glass Flower Lantern
Wednesdays, April 1, 15, & 29 5:30pm–7:30pm
Join us in the library for Dungeons & Dragons!
NAPSI)—A few tips and tools, such as bleach, can make cleaning your house easier and even more enjoyable. Find these tricks at www.alenusa. com/en/.

Monday, March 30 6:00pm –7:30pm Samantha He will show you how to design and make a beautiful glass lantern with real pressed flowers. There will be assortment of flowers and botanicals for you to choose from. You can add a tea light and
Babylon Library’s Writer’s Workshop is an ongoing program that usually meets two Tuesday evenings a month. New and experienced writers are welcome to join at any time. Feel free to bring any works in progress to share and discuss. Adults only, please. Registration is required.
All-Abilities Clothespin
Rainbow Wreath
Wednesday, April 8, 6:00pm – 7:00pm This wreath will look great in your house, especially after an April shower! This
BUYING? SEL LING? RENT ING?
Place your ad in the Classi fieds 631 -2 26-2636 Ext. 27 6
HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?
-2




Ext. 276



THINKING ABOUT ADVERTISING YOUR BU SINESS? 631-226-2636, Ext. 276
Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?
Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276 BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S?
Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276

Easter is a day of great joy for faithful Christians. Easter celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is detailed in the New Testament. Easter is what’s known as a moveable feast, which means it’s not celebrated on the same date each year. Easter’s date in 2026 is Sunday, April 5. Easter also is celebrated on a different day within Christian churches. Orthodox Christians do not celebrate Easter on the same day as non-Orthodox Christians. History.com notes Orthodox Christians follow the Julian calendar when determining when to celebrate Easter. Orthodox Easter will take place between
April 4 and May 8, following the first full moon after Passover. Non-orthodox Christians follow the Gregorian calendar, which was established by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. Under the Gregorian calendar, churches determined Easter will be held on the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. These disparities are why Orthodox churches, which are primarily located in Russia, Greece, Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria, observe Easter on a later date than non-Orthodox churches. In 2026, Orthodox Christians will celebrate Easter on April 12.





POOL PATIOS BELGIAN BLOCKS, NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS ALL PHASES OF LANDSCAPING & LAWN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE. MULCH, TOP SOIL, SEED, & TREE TRIMMING O-ROD
ALL PHASES OF MASONRY
•PAVERS
•RETAINING WALLS
•CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS & APRONS
•CULTURED STON E •WALKWAYS
•BELGIA N BLOCKS
•BRICK STOO PS & STEPS
•BAS EMENT ENTRANCES
•EGRE SS WINDO WS
K & T MA SONRY
LICENS ED & INSURED IN BUSINESS 45 YRS CALL TIM 631 -889- 596 8
CALL NE IGHBOR NE WS PAPERS to place your classified ad. 631-226-2636, Ex t. 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.
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.
BUYING? SEL LING? RENT ING?
Place your ad in the Classi fieds 631 -2 26-2636 Ext. 27 6
HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?
Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276
LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S? Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276


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
Y SERVICES
CA MBRIDG E PATIO
20' X 20' $5900
• CAMBRIDGE PAVERS.
• BLACKTOP DRIVEWAYS, • CHIMNEY REPAIRS,
• PATIOS, • NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS, PVC FENCES, FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED/INSURED HI-65214
JAG MASONRY & LANDS CAPING
Pavers, Patios, Drivew ays, Stoops, Cultured Stone Pool Areas, Etc! Free Estimates. Reasonabl e Prices & Reliable! Lic ensed & Insure d Lic. #59023-H References Avail abl e!
Se Necesitan Albaniles Con O Algo De Experiencia.
THE power of CLAS


ABOUT
YOUR BU SINESS? 631-226-2636, Ext. 276
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
RENTING? Place your ad in the Classifieds 631-226-2636 Ext. 276 LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S? Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET?
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.

The exact origins of April Fool’s Day are unknown, though historians have some interesting theories regarding the dawn of this day devoted to pranks. Some historians have linked April Fool’s Day to the festival of Hilaria in ancient Rome. According to History.com, Hilaria was celebrated by the followers of the cult of Cybele at the end of March. During the festival, celebrants dressed up in disguises and mocked fellow citizens. Another theory suggests April Fool’s Day might be linked to the transition from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar in France in 1582. The news of that transition, which officially recognized the start of the new year as January 1 after it had been April 1, reached some people’s ears more quickly than others’. Those who were slow to get the news continued to celebrate April 1 as the start of a new year, inspiring others to mock them and refer to them as “April fools.”
Babylon JuniorSenior High School has earned the Platinum distinction on the College Board’s 2025 AP School Honor Roll, the program’s highest level of recognition. This achievement marks the school’s continuous improvement, having earned Silver when the Honor Roll was introduced in 2023, followed by Gold in 2024, and now Platinum.
To achieve Platinum distinction, a school must demonstrate that at least 80 percent of its graduating class has taken at least one AP Exam during high school, reflecting a strong college culture. At least 50 percent of the graduating class must score a 3 or higher on at least one exam, showing they are earning potential college credit.

Additionally, at least 15 percent of the graduating class must take five or more AP Exams, with at least one of those exams taken in 9th or 10th grade, encouraging early engagement with college-level coursework. The Platinum distinction is a rare honor; for the 2023-2024 school year, only about seven percent of eligible schools across
the United States and Canada reached this toptier status.
“For a school our size to achieve Platinum distinction is a great achievement,” said Principal Al Cirone. “It speaks to the dedication of not only our students, but also our educators, and the culture of academic excellence we have built together.”







Light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) are energy-efficient and durable options. LEDs convert electricity into light instead of heat, and increasingly are used in a wide range of products, including lighting fixtures. According to Energy Star®, LEDs produce light up to 90 percent more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs. LEDs also do not typically “burn out” or fail, like other types of bulbs. Because of their performance benefits, homeowners may be interested in switching over to LED bulbs to power their existing lighting fixtures. Generally speaking, LED bulbs can work in most non-LED fixtures, provided the base type matches the socket. The LED bulb also should be rated for the same line voltage for the fixture. Also, the fixture should not be enclosed, such as glass-encased ceiling lights or certain outdoor fixtures. The lack of ventilation can cause heat buildup, leading to damage or failure. In such instances, one should purchase LEDs specifically rated for enclosed fixtures.




Many people will admit that home ownership tops their lists of longterm goals. Finding a home that is affordable may require moving into what many real estate agents bill as a “starter home.” But the arrival of a child, and then more children thereafter, could make a home that was perfectly functional for two or three feel too close for comfort. Anyone who would like to raise a family in the future might want to consider certain factors when choosing a residence or designing living spaces. A home that can grow with life changes can truly be a forever home. The following strategies can expand space when a family grows.
• Declutter. It is important to go through belongings regularly and remove anything that is no longer needed. This can be the first step to free up physical space in a room or the home in general. Donate any items that still have utility.
• Reassess your existing storage. Look at different ways to maximize existing storage. Utilizing vertical

space is one way to do so, so an investment in shelves, hooks and storage systems that maximize space in an upward direction can get items off the floor. Make use of storage under the stairs or in eaves. Loft beds with open space underneath are great for children’s rooms because they maximize floor area.
• Think about toy storage. Children love to play with toys, and once kids are in a home, toys will accumulate quite quickly. Have a plan for keeping toys neat and stowed away when not in use. Under-thebed storage, toy armoires (that are secured to the wall) and furniture that can double as storage, such as storage ottomans, are ideal.
• Revamp a closet. Although closet space may be at a premium, particularly in older homes, a closet can be turned into a nook to hold a desk for a homework station or remote office space. Compact and organized, it’s easy to hide away when not in use by closing the door.



• Utilize room dividers. Open floor plans have been the norm for some time. But at some point as a family grows, privacy and multi-functional spaces may be needed. It can be costly to put up permanent walls, but bookcases or pieces of tall furniture







can be used as room dividers to cordon off areas as specific spaces, like a child’s play area.
• Convert a basement or garage. Garages and basements have a reputation for being catch-alls for storage boxes and holiday decorations. However, such rooms have plenty of potential as functional living spaces. Invest in transforming a garage or basement into a room that can grow with the family. At first it may be a play area for young kids. Afterwards, it can be a gaming or homework hangout. As children grow older, spaces can be converted to a family media room. Having this extra space can free up room in the rest of the house so people can enjoy alone time when they need it.
• Maximize outdoor space. A yard or another outdoor space can add valuable square footage to a home. A covered patio or deck can make the outdoor areas more usable throughout the year and zones can be created for family meals, play and relaxation.










Knowledgeable trustworthy with full access to my home as our sale was nearly 100% remote we were living in another state. Hard working communicative at all stages of the sale with great guidance at all times. I highly recommend!
Posted by (Seller)
Mary Ann was referred to me by a family friend in 2020 and she helped me buy my rst home, a two bedroom condo. 5 years later, we reconnected and she helped me sell that same condo for an incredible return while we subsequently purchased this property. Her experience, communication, and insights were invaluable. It is critical to have an advocate while navigating through unfamiliar industries and for real estate you will nd no one better than Mary Ann. She is not only a great realtor but has become a wonderful friend as well.
Posted by (Buyer)



Mary Ann Murphy worked with my husband and I for over a year to nd the perfect home. Once we found our home she helped us get top dollar for our co-op. Mary Ann is knowledgeable about the real estate market and treated us like family. She made the process of buying and selling simultaneously as easy as possible. We are sad our journey with Mary Ann is over. We are forever grateful to her and her team!
Posted by /Buyer)

Mary Ann Murphy came into my life at a time my trust was at an all time low... Selling my house I thought would be impossible with realtors coming at me from all different ways and low balling the sale of my home to bene t themselves I was ready to let go and just give up. Mary Ann’s integrity, honesty and knowledge of the market and her kindness to my situation is something I will never forget. It’s very rare you come across a person in this eld that will work for you and not the almighty dollar and what they will get out of it. Mary Ann is a GEM and if you are looking to sell your home and you don’t want the BS she is the right person for you. There is no hidden agenda and I stress, as long as you are honest with her she will be there for you 100%. Mary Ann sold my home with a quick turnaround with no issues the day of Open House which I am very thankful for and will never forget.
Posted by PC (Seller) Mary Ann Murphy “Murph” is a fabulous agent. She got our house sold within the time frame she discussed with us at our rst meeting. She was prompt in returning calls and texts too. She went above and beyond our expectations to ensure the sale from start to nish was seamless. We are grateful we chose her as our agent.
Posted by (Seller)

Mary Ann was referred to me by a friend and was a pleasure to work with. Her knowledge of the industry is exceptional. Her and her team worked endlessly to nd me the perfect place. As a rst time home buyer she explained many things to me, that I was very unfamiliar with. Highly recommend. You will not be disappointed.
Posted by (Buyer)




