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Bethpage Newsgram (7/3/26)

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Friday, July 3, 2026

Vol. 86, No. 27

SERVING BETHPAGE, OLD BETHPAGE, AND PLAINVIEW

Hicksville HS celebrates Class of 2026

On June 24, Hicksville High School celebrated the graduating Class of 2026.

Photo courtesy of Hicksville Public Schools

Town invites patriotic displays for Fourth of July In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Town of Oyster Bay is inviting residents to showcase their patriotism and community pride by participating in the Town’s “Red, White & Blue” patriotic decorating initiative. As our nation prepares to commem-

orate 250 years of American independence, residents are encouraged to proudly display the colors of our country and honor the values that unite us as Americans. “America’s 250th Anniversary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate our

nation’s remarkable history and the freedoms we enjoy every day,” said Town Councilwoman Laura Maier. “By decorating our homes and neighborhoods in red, white and blue, we can demonstrate our pride in our country, honor those who See page 6

The Bethpage Newsgram is published every Friday by Litmor Publishing Corp. Periodical Postage paid at Hicksville, N.Y. 11801 Telephone 931-0012 - USPS 3467-68. Postmaster: Send Address Change to: The Bethpage Newsgram, 821 Franklin Ave., Suite 208, Garden City, N.Y. 11530 • Meg Norris Publisher

On June 24, Hicksville High School proudly celebrated the graduating Class of 2026 with a heartfelt commencement ceremony held on the school's athletic field. As the sound of "Pomp and Circumstance" filled the air, graduates processed onto the field to cheers from family and friends. The ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stirring rendition of the national anthem performed by seniors Kayla Mancuso and Kylie McLaughlin. Principal Raymond Williams then welcomed graduates and their families, expressing his gratitude, admiration and pride in the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. In his commencement address, Principal Williams praised the graduates for their perseverance, academic achievements and the choices that brought them to this milestone. Focusing on the importance of character, integrity and living a meaningful life, he reminded students that true success is measured not only by accomplishments but by the values they uphold. "Our greatest responsibility is not simply to succeed," he said, "it is to be the kind of person whose success never comes at the expense of personal values. In the storm of life, challenges and disappointments will come, but the question is: when those moments arrive, plant yourself firmly in integrity and anchor yourself in truth. Stand beside those who need support and always have the courage to do what is right,

especially when it seems difficult." Superintendent of Schools Dr. Theodore Fulton also congratulated the graduates, encouraging them to define success on their own terms. Reflecting on the lives of successful individuals throughout history, he emphasized that they never allowed others to determine their worth. "I want you to always possess the skills, the intellect, and the talents necessary to be successful in all of your endeavors, even if the path looks different than what you originally imagined," he said. He concluded by encouraging graduates to "embrace the unknown, take risks, lean into challenges, overcome adversity, outwork your competition, and be the absolute best version of yourself that you can be." The ceremony also featured remarks from board of education trustee Sunita Manjrekar and special guest Adam Firester, Hicksville's 2026 Hall of Fame inductee. Valedictorian Ian Kim delivered a thoughtful address reflecting on achievement, selfworth, and the enduring importance of respect. "Self-respect is the first and most essential step toward success," he said. "You can't build anything meaningful on top of a version of yourself that you don't believe in." He concluded by encouraging his classmates to leave a legacy of respect wherever life leads them. Salutatorian Kapish Pharma compared the high school See page 6

Syosset HS commencement day PAGE 4 Bethpage HS celebrates grads PAGE 8


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