America 250
Commemorative Tree Dedication & Community Celebration
Saturday, July 11, 2026
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Front Lawn at Argyle Square – Next to Village Hall
175 West Main Street, Village of Babylon
Rain Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026
This event is free and open to the public
The Village of Babylon Historical & Preservation Society and the Babylon Beautification Society invite the community to join us for a special America 250 celebration commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
This meaningful community gathering will feature the dedication of a commemorative Red Oak tree and bronze plaque at Argyle Square, creating a lasting tribute to America 250 for current and future generations of Village of Babylon residents.
The event is part of Suffolk County’s broader America 250 initiative and recognizes the County’s important connection to America’s colonial and Revolutionary War history.
A Celebration of History, Community, and Place
America 250 gives us an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history while also honoring the traditions, events, and experiences that shape life in our own community.
History is often associated with the great events and historic places that shaped our nation, but it is also reflected in the traditions, celebrations, and shared experiences that bring communities together.
This commemorative tree and plaque will serve as a lasting reminder of both this historic national milestone and the Village of Babylon community we are proud to call home.
Event Highlights
Remarks and community reflections
Commemorative tree dedication
Bronze plaque unveiling
America 250 commemorative giveaways
Complimentary refreshments
Community gathering and celebration
Community Partnership
This event is presented by the Village of Babylon Historical & Preservation Society and the Babylon Beautification Society, with support from Suffolk County, Garvey Properties, Ltd., and Village Trustee Jeff Szabo.
The commemorative tree and plaque will be located at Argyle Square through a partnership with Garvey Properties, Ltd.
Please join us as we recognize America 250 in our own way — together, here in the Village of Babylon.
Program
Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 3:00 pm | Argyle Square – Main Street – Next to Village Hall
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Judy Skillen, President, Village of Babylon Historical & Preservation Society
Beautification Society Remarks
Frank Petruzzo, President, Babylon Beautification Society
Chris Genzmann, Director, Babylon Beautification Society; Chair, Village of Babylon Tree Board
Village Remarks
Mary E. Adams, Mayor, Village of Babylon
Partnership – Garvey Properties, Ltd.
Jeff Szabo, Trustee, Village of Babylon
Town of Babylon Remarks
Rich Schaffer, Supervisor, Town of Babylon
Suffolk County / America 250 Remarks
RJ Renna, Legislator, Suffolk County
Tree Dedication & Plaque Unveiling
Chris Genzmann, Director, Babylon Beautification Society; Village of Babylon Tree Board Chair
Judy Skillen, President, Village of Babylon Historical & Preservation Society
Closing Remarks
Wayne Horsley, Vice President, Village of Babylon Historical & Preservation Society, Former Babylon Beautification Society President; Former Suffolk County Legislator
Thank You to our Partners & Sponsors
