Babylon Store To Shutter After 23 Years In Business

BABYLON, NY — After over 23 years in business, a Babylon holistic center and specialty shop announced it will be closing its doors next month. In a letter to the community, owner Donna Lorez wrote that her store Healthy Alternatives, which opened on 6 Shore Road in 1997, will be shuttering on July 31. Lorez also stated in the heartfelt letter that she will be closing the business in part to continue to care for her 91-year-old father, who is suffering from dementia.

"After 2 moves and 23 ½ years, I have decided to close my store. More than a chapter, these years have been more of a book…part novel, part instructional, part enlightening, and always interesting. I began this business without a plan…it evolved, and I went along for the ride. I also never had an exit plan, but have recognized and accepted that the universe has stepped in to let me know that the time has come to move on," she wrote.

In the meantime, Lorez will be increasing the store days and hours before she plans on closing for good next month.

"As many of you are aware, my mom passed on April 7th (no, not Covid) and I am overseeing the care of my dad who at age 91 and suffering from dementia still wants to come and help clear out the store! I am blessed with a husband who has supported me every step of the way, two children (now incredible adults!) that make a difference every day, and who were my motivation to explore healthy alternatives all those years ago, and 5 amazing grandchildren who reinforce the importance of making informed choices, especially when it comes to health," she wrote in the letter. "I am grateful to all of you for being a part of this incredible journey and I look forward to seeing you in the coming weeks to help write the end of this book."