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
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
Purple Rock Project & Town Of Babylon Dedicate Lakeside Park Memorial Honoring Opioid Lives Lost
A group of Long Island parents turned grief into grace, one purple rock at a time, on April 29, Fentanyl Awareness Day, as they placed approximately 50 memorial rocks at Babylon Town Hall Park, located at 200 Sunrise Highway in Lindenhurst.
Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, town officials, and parents who have lost children to the opioid crisis gathered to read the names of the deceased and place the rocks beneath a memorial tree on the east side of the lake. Created through The Purple Rock Project, each rock bears the name and, in many cases, the photo of a loved one lost to opioid or fentanyl poisoning. The rocks represent individuals from Long Island, across New York State, and throughout the country, requested by families seeking a lasting tribute.
Above All ROOFING
“I am grateful to the Town of Babylon for giving us this space to remember our loved ones,” said Purple Rock Project founder Carole Trottere. “It is our hope that those who pass by will pause to reflect on the magnitude of this loss and that it sparks meaningful conversations between parents and their children.”
“We have worked very hard over the years to raise awareness about the devastating impact of alcohol and drug addiction on families,” said Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer. “Our goal is to help ensure that other families do not have to endure the heartbreak experienced by those here today.”
A plaque created by Miller Mohr and Kelly Design Group now sits beneath the tree, reading:
“The Purple Rock Project—These rocks were made by Long Islanders in memory of loved ones lost to the opioid/fentanyl crisis. Stop the stigma.”
Also attending the ceremony were representatives from Beacon Family Wellness Center; Steve Chassman, LCSW, CASAC, Vice President at Wellbridge Addiction Treatment and Research; LICADD Director of Programming
A plaque created by Miller Mohr and Kelly Design Group now sits beneath the tree, reading: “The Purple Rock Project—These rocks were made by Long Islanders in memory of loved ones lost to the opioid/fentanyl crisis. Stop the stigma.”
Adam Birkenstock; Town of Babylon Councilman Terence McSweeney; Deputy Supervisor Antonio Martinez; and many parents, relatives, and friends of those being honored.
For more information about The Purple Rock Project, visit ThePurpleRockProject.org. For more information about The Purple Rock Project visit ThePurpleRockProject
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
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.
The tree with the purple rocks is located at the Town of Babylon’s Town Hall Park, located at 200 Sunrise Highway in Lindenhurst. Photo by Carole Trottere
At the Levittown Center, 2999 Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown. Enjoy thrilling midway rides and games and tasty carnival eats for the whole family at this annual Memorial Day weekend event sponsored by the Levittown Chamber of Commerce. Admission and parking are free. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult age 21+. Please check the website for event updates before attending, dreamlandamusements.com. For more information, call 866-666-3247
THURSDAY, MAY 21st, thru MONDAY, MAY 25th, Midway hours: 5:00-10:00PM Thursday, 5:00PM-11:00PM Friday, NOON-11:00PM Saturday-Sunday, 1:00PM10:00PM Monday (Memorial Day).
MERRICK TRAIN STATION CARNIVAL At Merrick LIRR Station, 2099 Sunrise Hwy. in Merrick. Experience the sights, sounds and aromas of the electrifying midway over Memorial Day weekend with exciting rides and games for all ages and tantalizing carnival cuisine. Event admission and parking are free. For more information, call 866-666-3247
SATURDAY, MAY 23rd
11:00AM-5:00PM
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
GREAT AMERICAN FOOD AND CRAFT FESTIVAL
At P & A Park, 21 Pearsall Avenue in Deer Park. The Great American Food & Craft Festival brings together delicious eats, handcrafted goods, and creative makers for a fun-filled outdoor celebration of local flavor and artistry. Interested in learning more about the event or want to apply to be a vendor? Check out this site at https://www.staysaltedinc. com/events/the-great-american-foodcraft-festival, or call 631-431-7080
SATURDAY, May 23rd, thru SUNDAY, May 24th
10:00AM-5:00PM
SMITHTOWN SPRING CRAFT FAIR at Smithtown Village Historical Society grounds, 211 East Main Street in Smithtown. Smithtown Spring Craft Fair will be held on the picturesque Smithtown historical society grounds. Featuring 100 local craft and gift vendors, food trucks, and live music. Free parking and admission. For more information, please call 631-885-1267
SATURDAY, May 23rd, thru SUNDAY, May 24th
12:00PM-6:00PM
SALUTE 250 Jones Beach State Park, 1 Ocean Parkway in Wantagh. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to announce Salute 250 . The Memorial Day Weekend celebration will feature a Revolutionary War Re-enactment Village, festival activities, a musical performance and our first-ever Grand Finale Drone Show! Located in Field
3.5, the Re-enactment village will have colonial cooking, historical exhibits, colonial crafting, George Washington on horseback, and much more! On Sunday, the festivities turn up a notch with children’s activities and inflatables over at the West Bathhouse from 3:00pm to 6:00pm. A musical patriotic tribute to our military will commence at the Central Mall Bandshell from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, leading up to the Drone Show on Central Mall’s Beachfront at 9:00pm!A $10 vehicle use feewill be in effect and all event activities will be free. For more information, please call 631-321-3510
SATURDAY, MAY 30th
8:00AM-1:00PM
MULTI-FAMILY INDOOR YARD SALE Food, Thrift Shop, Antiques and so much more! Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690
SUNDAY, MAY 31st
Doors open: 1:00 PM Games start: 2:00 PM SUPERMARKET BINGO & CHINESE AUCTION
Our Lady of Lourdes School Auditorium, 855 Carmans Rd. in Massapequa Park. Admission: $25 per adult (18+ only), cash or check (payable to OLI Columbiettes) Limited seating—buy tickets early. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus & Columbiettes (Our Lady of the Island Council) For more information, please call Joan Donovan: 516659-6519 | jdonovan17@aol.com, Diane Esposito: 516445-9128, diane. esposito.mpk@gmail.com
On April 28th, the Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition participated in DEA National Fentanyl Awareness Day at Lindenhurst High School and we couldn’t be more proud of the student who made it happen.
Thank you Vanessa And Maddie!
Our youth coalition leaders organized and designed the entire awareness table in the school rotunda, reaching every student who came through during lunch. Interactive activities included the One Pill Can Kill and Real vs. Fake pill recognition display, a sugar scale demonstration showing the terrifyingly small amount of fentanyl that can be lethal, and a prize wheel that kept the energy going all day.
Our team connected one-on-one with students, provided Narcan kits to those who needed them, and shared information about local resources, including our Pizza Box Campaign, which is bringing prevention messaging from middle schoolers through restaurant partners right here in the Town of Babylon.
Thank you to Lindenhurst High School for welcoming us, and to every student who stopped to learn something new.
• Broccoli and Mozzarella • Traditional (Ham, Salami, Pepperoni, Mozzarella)
Five Ways To Honor The Real Meaning Of Memorial Day
holiday is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of the fallen heroes who dedicated and lost their lives in the pursuit of service. The following are some ways to honor those sacrifices this Memorial Day.
Memorial Day often is celebrated with the excitement of a long weekend and the prospect of firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue. But Memorial Day also is a time to reflect on the men and women who gave their lives to defend American freedom.
Memorial Day was established to honor individuals who died while serving the United States in the Armed Forces and the
• Observe the National Moment of Remembrance. The National Moment of Remembrance is an annual one-minute moment of silence that takes place at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. Established by Congress in 2000, this unifying moment encourages Americans to pause their activities and reflect on the high cost of freedom. The time is significant, as it is a period when most people are enjoying Memorial Day festivities that were made possible by the sacrifices of Armed Forces personnel.
• Honor the American flag. Memorial Day features a unique flag protocol. To properly honor the fallen, the flag should be flown at half-staff until noon. Afterwards, it should be raised to the top of the staff for the remainder of the day, according to the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization. The transition marks the nation’s mourning in
the morning hours and then the legacy of fallen veterans later in the afternoon.
• Coordinate flag placement for cemeteries. Organizations like Flags for Fallen Vets and scouting groups make an effort to place small American flags at the grave sites of deceased veterans. Many cemeteries feature sections exclusively for veterans. Similarly, families can visit cemeteries and leave a penny or a stone on the headstone of a veteran, which shows others that someone visited to pay their respects.
• Talk to the next generation. To ensure that the memories of fallen soldiers do not fade into obscurity, living veterans can speak with youth about their service experiences and those of their fallen friends. Schools or local municipalities can organize speaking engagements.
Memorial Day is much more than sales at the furniture store or a day spent manning the grill. It is a day to remember and honor service members who never made
Town Of Babylon Celebrates Student Environmental Leaders At 8th Annual Waterways Poster Contest
The Town of Babylon proudly recognized the winners of the 8th Annual Waterways Poster Contest during the Town’s Earth Day celebration at Geiger Lake Park. Sponsored by Winters Bros., A WM Company, the annual contest encourages fourth and fifth grade students throughout the Town to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic litter entering local waterways.
Held in memory of Burt Koza, the contest serves as both an educational initiative and a community outreach effort designed to inspire environmental stewardship among Babylon’s youngest residents.
This year’s first-place winner, AJ Rosales, was recognized not only for his winning artwork, but also for his dedication to the environment through his volunteer efforts helping to maintain Scott Park
in West Babylon. Contest organizers highlighted the importance of empowering young residents to take an active role in protecting local waterways and public spaces.
“The creativity and passion shown by these students gives us tremendous hope for the future,” said Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer. “Programs
like the Waterways Poster Contest help teach the next generation the importance of protecting our environment and keeping litter out of our rivers, bays and neighborhoods. We are proud to partner with Winters Bros. in supporting environmental education and recognizing these outstanding students.”
As part of the program, organizers also highlighted the Town’s ongoing antilitter initiatives, including the use of the “Bandit” litter capture device on Carlls River, which helps prevent debris and plastics from reaching local waterways.
“Winters Bros., A WM Company was proud to recognize students from the
Local volunteers, environmental advocates, and community partners joined forces for a largescale cleanup at Elda Lake in North Babylon, working to protect the Carlls River waterway and improve the health of local ecosystems. The cleanup effort was made possible through the support of Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Testing Labs & Office, Save The Great South Bay, and the Town’s Environmental Team led by Rich Groh, Vinny Biondo, and Emma Magnuson. Participants spent the day removing debris and restoring the area surrounding Elda Lake, an important waterway that connects to the Carlls River and ultimately the Great South Bay. Town officials said the project reflects the growing importance of local environmental stewardship and the role
Community Volunteers Lead Major Cleanup Effort
At Elda Lake In North Babylon
The Burt Koza Memorial Scholarships, funded by Winters Bros., are awarded annually to students whose artwork best illustrates the environmental impact of plastic pollution in local waterways.
Town of Babylon who take sustainability seriously,” said Dan Schaefer, Manager of Public Affairs for Winters Bros. “This poster contest, now in its eighth year, encourages all town residents to think twice before littering. As always, we thank Supervisor Rich Schaffer and the entire Town of Babylon team for being our partners in protecting our local environment.”
residents play in preserving natural resources.
Councilman Terence McSweeney emphasized the need to address pollution at its source.
“Removing excess nitrogen from our waterways is one of the most important
steps we can take to protect our environment,” said McSweeney. “If nitrogen is allowed to flow downstream into our bays and oceans, it can fuel harmful algae blooms that damage marine life, hurt water quality, and threaten
the beauty of our shoreline communities. Efforts like today’s cleanup help stop that process before it starts.” Environmental advocates note that nitrogen pollution often comes from stormwater runoff, fertilizers, and
outdated septic systems, all of which can impact Long Island’s bays and coastal waters. Organizers said the cleanup also served as a reminder of the importance of being a “creek defender” — protecting local streams, lakes, and rivers
before pollution reaches larger waterways. This event showcased what can be accomplished through teamwork, civic pride, and a shared commitment to keeping Babylon’s waterways clean for generations to come.
Hope For The Warriors’ 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge
Registration is open for the Hope For The Warriors 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge, a free virtual wellness event focused on physical and emotional well-being while honoring U.S. service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Hosted by Craig Conover, a Bravo television personality and Hope For The Warriors board council member, the challenge runs May 1–30. Participants commit to at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day for 30 consecutive days. Activities may include walking, running, hiking, swimming, strength training, or dancing.
Individuals and
teams can register at hopeforthewarriors.org.
Participants may log daily activity through the website to track cumulative progress and earn up to 30 mission points each day. Prizes will be awarded to the top three participants at the conclusion of the challenge.
Participants will receive twice-weekly emails offering motivation, wellness tips, and ideas to support sustained physical and mental health. In addition, signing up for the 30x30 challenge provides access to the Hope For The Warriors’ sports and recreation resource library, which contains exercise demonstrations, healthy
eating tips, and mindfulness activities.
“The 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge continues to be a powerful way for
people to come together in a meaningful way,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors. “Its virtual
format allows participants everywhere to honor our military community through a shared commitment to wellness and remembrance.”
For more information or to sign up for the Memorial Day 30x30 Wellness Fitness Challenge, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.
To watch Craig Conover’s invitation to join his Hope For The Warriors 30x30 Memorial Day Challenge team, visit instagram.com/p/ DWo3VVPDMNf/?hl=en
About Hope For The Warriors: Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military
community (including veterans and active-duty service members as well as military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen). At HOPE, our mission is to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment, and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors. org.
Babylon Public Library
24 S. Carll Ave. Babylon, NY Erin White 631.669.1624
Classic Film Club:
A Place in the Sun
Wednesday, May 20, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Watch and discuss the classic film A Place in the Sun (1951). Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor, and Shelley Winters star in this story of a working-class man who becomes romantically involved with a woman of his own class and then falls for a beautiful socialite,
leading to a tragic love triangle. Running time: 122 minutes. No registration necessary.
Friday Films: Hamnet
Friday, May 22, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
We will be watching the film Hamnet (2025). The story follows William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley) as they attempt to hold their lives together after an unimaginable loss.
Adapted from the 2020 novel by Maggie O’Farrell. Rated
PG-13. Running time: 125 minutes. No registration required.
Friends of the Babylon Public Library Spring Book Sale Thursday, May 28, 4:00pm - 7:30pm (Friends only) Friday, May 29, 10:00am - 4:30pm Saturday, May 30, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Come shop for books, DVDs, CDs, and more at the Friends of the Babylon Public Library Spring Book Sale! Thursday evening
hours are reserved for Friends members only, but you can become a member at the door! Proceeds from the book sale help pay for the library’s Museum Pass Program.
Adult Games
Mondays, June 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29 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.
Seashell Trinket Tray Workshop Monday, June 1, 6:00pm–7:00pm
Explore the fascinating world of Long Island’s mussels, clams, and oysters, and uncover the rich history of oysters in New York waters. Learn about ongoing conservation efforts, then create your own beautiful seashell trinket trays— perfect for rings, keepsakes, or a touch of coastal charm at home. A non-refundable $5.00 fee is due at program registration. This is an inperson program and takehome kits are not available.
Writer’s Workshop Tuesdays, June 2, 16, & 23 5:30pm-7:45pm 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.
Preserving Our Revolutionary Past: Local DAR Preservation Efforts and Our Patriot Legacy Wednesday, June 3, 6:00pm–7:00pm This lecture highlights the work of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in preserving RevolutionaryContinued On 19
Babylon Public Library
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era history, with a special focus on local Long Island sites and figures. The program explores DAR preservation efforts and explains how protecting historic sites helps keep America’s founding stories alive. A brief, introductory look at Revolutionary War genealogy is included, offering context without requiring prior research experience. Please register for this program.
Teen Programs
Teens Needle Felting:
Jellyfish with the Whaling Museum
Thursday, May 21, 3:30pm–5:00pm Celebrate World Oceans Day by exploring the mesmerizing world of jellyfish. Using needle felting, you’ll craft your own floating jellyfish masterpiece – soft, colorful, and totally unique. Learn cool facts about these incredible
ocean animals as you bring your creation to life. Grades 6-12. Registration required.
Teens Friends of the Library Book Sale Volunteers hours available Tuesday, May 26 - Saturday, May 30 Receive Community Service hours for assisting the Friends with their Spring Book Sale! Grades 6-12. Sign up for Community Service hours at the Adult Reference Desk.
Teens Dungeons & Dragons
Wednesdays, June 10 & 17 5:30pm–7:30pm Join us in the library for 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.
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How To Make Grilling Healthier
Grilling is a beloved summer tradition, but it’s not always the healthiest way to eat. Classic backyard barbecue fare like hot dogs and hamburgers may be crowd favorites, but there are simple ways to enjoy the flavor of grilling while maintaining a nutritious diet:
• Choose healthier proteins: Replace burgers and hot dogs with options like fish or skinless chicken breasts. If you still crave a burger, opt for lean ground poultry instead of beef to cut down on saturated fat.
• Practice moderation: The relaxed atmosphere of barbecues can lead to overeating. Swap out chips and heavy sides for healthier choices like fresh vegetables, fruit salad or chickpea salad, and keep portion sizes reasonable. Health experts recommend about three ounces of meat per serving, with no more than six ounces.
• Skip the salt: While salt enhances flavor, too much can contribute to high blood pressure. Try a salt-free rub made with spices like chili powder, garlic powder and paprika to add bold flavor without extra sodium.
• Add more vegetables: Grilled vegetables are both tasty and nutritious. Brush them with a healthy oil like olive oil to prevent sticking and bring out their natural flavors over the flame.
Remember. Honor. Celebrate
On Memorial Day, as we gather with friends and family, host backyard BBQs, let’s pause to remember the meaning of the day. Our Veterans.
We remember their sacrifice, honor their service, and celebrate their legacy. We are indebted to everyone in our armed forces, our Veterans, and those who presently serve, for the freedoms we enjoy today. They are our family, friends, and neighbors, and some paid the ultimate sacrifice for defending America.
President Harry S. Truman once said, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”
