Holbrook has long been a cohesive, family-oriented hamlet, and now local business leaders are focusing on beautification efforts.

The Holbrook Chamber of Commerce has received funding to make improvements from both Islip and Brookhaven towns, as well as from Suffolk County, said chamber president Rick Ammirati.

While shops, services and eateries are scattered throughout the area, the business district primarily resides along Main Street and Furrows Road.

"The town is just booming," said Marge Schaefer, a broker who owns Coldwell Banker Schaefer Tafuro with her husband Chuck Schaefer. She also notes Holbrook is conveniently located near the Long Island Expressway, Ronkonkoma train station, Sunrise Highway, MacArthur Airport and the Fire Island ferries in Sayville.

Middle-class neighborhoods feature capes, Colonials, ranch styles and newer postmodern homes. Condos, town houses and apartment rentals also can be found. Many residents trade up rather than move out, Marge Schaefer said.

"It's a nice community to raise a family," added Suffolk County Legislator William J. Lindsay, who has lived in Holbrook for 27 years. "Everyone takes pride in their homes and properties."

Recreational opportunities can be found at the Holbrook Country Club and the nearby Holtsville Park and Ecology Center, which offers a zoo and three swimming pools.

Residents can also attend the chamber's holiday events and carnival in the summer. The Sachem Public Library is in Holbrook.

-Lisa Doll Bruno (4/8/2005)