_______________
BaBylon _______________
HERALD BEaCon
Also serving Babylon, Bay Shore, Copiague, Deer Park, Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, West Babylon, West Islip and Wyandanch
$1.00
DECEMBER 26 2024 - JANUARY 1, 2025
What’s
INSIDE
VOL. 129 NO. 50
HERALD PERSON OF THE YEAR JUDY SKILLEN
Tireless volunteer working to preserve Babylon's history By Christie Leigh Babirad
Supervisor Rich Schaffer works to clean up Babylon. Page 6
For more than three decades, Judy Skillen has dedicated herself to the betterment of the Village of Babylon. As president of the Babylon Village Historical & Preservation Society and in her many other endeavors, Skillen is always emphasizing the contributions of others rather than seeking personal recognition. "Judy is not only one of my closest friends but may be the most skillful public administrator I’ve ever worked with," said Wayne Horsley, historian at the udy society. "For more than 40 years, I have been amazed at how much Skillen is she has accomplished without ever seeking credit." an incredible For those reasons and many woman who more, Skillen is honored as the Babylon Herald Record's Person of throughout the Year. A retired educator, Skillen served the years has for many years as the chairperson been dedicated of the Special Education program in the West Babylon School Disto the best trict. "I loved every minute and I was so fortunate that I had woninterests of derful people who I worked with," she said. Alongside her career, Skil- the village. len and her late husband, Gerald, MARY ADAMS were deeply involved with the Conklin House and the historical Mayor, Babylon society. "We as a couple did a lot together, and when he passed away, Village I was honestly grateful to have these groups because each one has become like a family to me," she said. Skillen’s involvement in the village began with her appointment to the Architectural Review Board, followed by the Planning Board, and eventually as a trustee of the historical society. She recalled how the mayor at the time would frequently ask her to assist with various projects. "I’ve always loved working with people, and I was eager to help," she said. Mayor Mary Adams praised Skillen for her long-standing commitment to the village. "Judy Skillen is an incredible woman who throughout the years has been dedicated to the best interests of the Village of Babylon," Adams said. "Through Judy’s extraordinary efforts, sacrifice, and volunteerism, she has helped preserve the history of Babylon Village, brought awareness of the village’s history to all generations, and has contributed so much to making
J
Nancy Keating named Poet Page 8 of the Year.
Rev. Richard Hanse is welcomed home. Page 12
FOR BREAKING NEWS go to liherald.com
Babylon Village a great place to live, work, and raise a family." Adams also called Skillen a "wonderful role model for women of all ages in the community." During the COVID-19 pandemic, Skillen led efforts to preserve and catalog historical artifacts that had been improperly stored. "Everything I do, I do because I truly enjoy it," Skillen said. "What I do here in the village, I love, and I feel very privileged and honored." "Judy is an absolute gem," said Village Trustee Sean Goodwin. "Her dedication to Babylon Village is truly awesome. I enjoy working on so many committees with her. She is my hero!" One of Skillen's most rewarding projects was planning the 20th anniversary commemoration of 9/11. "They honored me by letting me plan for that, and you know how sometimes when you plan something it just turns out perfect; that’s the way this was," she said. But she credited her board of trustees and volunteers for making the event a success. "We just have the best board of trustees; each one has a special skill, talent or forte, and they give it so willingly," she said. "It’s a team effort, and I have to say, it’s a lot of fun." Skillen has led many major initiatives, including the instalContinued on page 2 Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Longtime Babylon Village resident and tireless volunteer Judy Skillen