JUNK REMOVAL
Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on the community.
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.
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
A Rundown On Roofing Pojects
No two home renovation projects are the same. Some projects are highly detailed undertakings that take months if not years from start to finish, while others can be tackled by skilled do-it-yourselfers over the course of a single weekend. Though each project is different, categorizing renovations as needs or wants can help homeowners determine when the time is right to go forward. Roof replacement projects typically fall into the “need” category. A decaying roof can jeopardize the safety and security of a home and lead to additional issues, like water damage. It’s unwise to delay roof replacement projects when signs of a decaying roof start to appear. Homeowners who are starting to see such indicators can look to this rundown of roof replacement projects as they begin the process of replacing their roof.
• Cost. Roof replacement costs vary considerably depending on a host of variables. Materials, location and the cost of labor, dimensions of the roof, and even choice of contractor all affect the cost of the project. The home renovation experts at Angi indicate the average roof replacement project costs $9,500. Asphalt is among the more affordable roofing materials, costing an average of $1 to $1.20 per square foot, according to Nerdwallet. Slate roofs will be more expensive, costing anywhere from $10 to $30 per square foot.
How Reading Builds Young Children’s Vocabulary
• Life expectancy. Homeowners may blanch at the cost of a roof replacement project, particularly if they choose a more expensive material. However, it’s important to keep life expectancy in mind when receiving roof estimates. Many homeowners never replace a roof twice, making this a potentially costly but ultimately one-time expense. Though slate roofs are expensive, homeowners may find it reassuring that estimates from various roofing resources indicate slate roofs come with a life expectancy ranging from 50 to 200 years. By contrast, Nerdwallet estimates an asphalt roof lasts around 10 to 20 years, while others suggest such roofs can last as long as 30 years.
• Materials. Choice of materials is arguably the most significant decision homeowners will make when replacing a roof. The experts at This Old House report that materials typically account for 55 to 65 percent of the overall cost of a roof replacement project. Decisions regarding roof materials will be affected by budget, local climate (certain materials are better suited to particular climates than others), aesthetic appeal, and required maintenance. It’s also important that homeowners consider the material warranty of each roofing product. Some materials offer longer warranties than others, which can provide a measure of security to homeowners investing so much in the project.
A study from The Ohio State University found large differences in word exposure based on how often young children are read to. Children whose parents read them five books a day heard about 1.48 million words before kindergarten, compared with just over 4,600 words for children who were never read to. Even daily reading resulted in far fewer words than reading multiple books a day. Beyond vocabulary growth, reading supports children’s communication skills, empathy, literacy, and understanding of the world.
One study also noted the effects that reading to young children can have on the relationship between parent and child. That study, authored by researchers at the University of Wollongong in Australia and Boston University and published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, found that reading to young children supports a strong relationship between parent and child.
MARCH HAPPENINGS
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
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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
Sharp Tax
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.
West Islip Resident Receives Suffolk County Woman Of Distinction Award For The 11th LD
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron presents Nancy Donahue with the 2026 Suffolk County Woman of Distinction Award for the 11th Legislative District. Ms. Donahue and her family have been longtime members of the community where she has volunteered for various organizations for more than 50 years. Her
volunteerism began in the mid-1990s when she became a commissioner representing the hamlet of West Islip, working closely with former Chairpersons of Keep Islip Clean, Bill Johnson and Kay Erwood, to keep the organization operating smoothly. In addition, she served as the Chairperson of KIC for three years and
was instrumental working on the revitalization of West Islip Beach which involved repainting the main building and clearing the beach of accumulated trash and debris. She worked tirelessly in promoting the beach and making the community aware of this gem which had previously been underutilized. Then,
in 2014, Nancy was part of the planning and creation of Madeline’s Playground in memory of Madeline Hsu who tragically died in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting. Foremost, as President of the West Islip Symphony Orchestra since 1991 to present, an organization
Continued On 16
Things To Know When Replacing Windows
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.
WORDS
How Gowing Families Can Create More Space
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.
West Islip Resident James J. Killen Named Hibernian Of The Year By AOH St. Patrick’s Division 2
The Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Patrick’s Division 2 of Babylon has named James J. “Jim” Killen of West Islip as its 2026 Hibernian of the Year, recognizing his longtime leadership, service and dedication to the organization and to the local community.
Killen, a Past President of the Division and a 25-year member of the AOH, was honored during the Division’s annual St. Patrick’s Ball held March 7, 2026 at the AOH Irish Cultural Center in Babylon. The celebration took place during the Division’s 80th anniversary year serving the Babylon community.
Division President Christopher Bradley said Killen’s commitment to the Hibernians and the community made him a natural choice for the honor.
“Jim Killen represents the very best of what the Ancient Order of Hibernians stands for,” Bradley said. “His leadership, generosity and dedication to our Irish heritage and to the Babylon community make him a most deserving recipient of this year’s Hibernian of the Year recognition.”
A fourth-generation member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Killen continues a proud family tradition within the organization. His daughter Allison and son Brian represent the fifth generation of the family connected to the Hibernians.
In addition to his leadership within the organization, Killen serves as the official liaison between the Ancient
Order of Hibernians and the Babylon Village Chamber of Commerce, helping strengthen the relationship between the Hibernians and the local business community.
For Killen, the recognition also carries deep personal meaning.
His father, Joseph P. Killen, was an AOH member and a decorated World War II veteran who fought at the historic Battle of Remagen in Germany on March 7, 1945, where he earned both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Eighty-one years later, on that same date, Killen was honored by his fellow Hibernians during the Division’s St. Patrick’s celebration.
Founded in the United States in 1836, the Ancient Order of Hibernians 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. Killen said he was humbled by the recognition and proud to continue his family’s longstanding connection to the organization.
“I am honored and have immense pride being named Hibernian of the Year,” Killen said. “As a fourthgeneration Hibernian, it means a great deal to me knowing the men in my family who came before me—my father, grandfather and greatgrandfather—would be proud. The Ancient Order of Hibernians and its members are a tremendous asset to the Babylon community.”
JAMES J. KILLEN
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West Islip Resident Receives Suffolk County Woman Of Distinction Award For The 11th LD
Continued From 12
she dedicates many hours to spreading the importance of bringing classical music into the community. She is a founding member of the West Islip Country Fair Committee, serving since 1976 and is an active member of the West Islip Chamber of Commerce and a past member of the Sagtikos Manor Historical Society. In addition, Nancy is active
in the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion Post and was awarded NYS Woman of Distinction in 2007. There have been many individuals who have greatly benefited from Ms. Donahue’s contributions to the community. She continues tirelessly, at the age of 88 years old, giving of her time and talents to bring cultural arts to others for the betterment of her community.
A Woman of Distinction Award is presented to a woman who has demonstrated outstanding achievements, strong leadership, and a lasting positive impact in her community, profession, or field of service. It recognizes dedication, hard work, and a commitment to making a difference, often honoring those who inspire others and contribute to the betterment of society through service, advocacy, or professional excellence.
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Masonr y Masonr
Winter Concert
Saturday, February 14, 2026, 3 PM
Saturday, March 28, 2026, 3 PM
Paul Little, conducting
Paul Little, conducting
MUSIC OF: Franz List
A rock orchestra trip back to the 1990s, featuring your favorite music from the decade!
FEATURING: Eric Siepkes, Piano
LOCATION: Beach Street Middle School
LOCATION: Beach Street Middle School
Adults
Adults $10.00, Students Free For more information: www.westislipsymphony.org
The West Islip Symphony Orchestra wishes to thank Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning and Legislator Steve Flotteron for helping to fund this year's performances.
