Jack Lamonte, a student at Northside Elementary School,
about leadership. Photo courtesy of the Farmingdale School District
LONG LIVE
health care that works with your life.
Many ways to access great doctors? We have that. Simple mobile app? We have that, too. Convenient locations for primary, specialty, and urgent care? Absolutely. On Long Island, you have options in health care. But at Catholic Health, we'd like to remind you to choose you first – because we did, too.
You
Recipe Of The Week: Spicy Soy Chicken Wings
Whilethe exciting action on the gridiron is a cause for celebration among millions of football fans, the food enjoyed during game day provides much to look forward to as well. Certain foods have become part and parcel of watching a particular sport. For example, who can attend a baseball game and resist the temptation to indulge in a hot dog? For football fans, chicken wings are the go-to game day dish. There’s no shortage of ways to prepare chicken wings, but fans who like their game day grub to have a little kick can try this recipe for “Spicy Soy Chicken Wings” courtesy of Andrew Schloss’s “Cooking Slow: Recipes for Slowing Down and Cooking More” (Chronicle Books).
Makes 4 servings
4 lbs. chicken wings, cut into sections at the joints, tapered wing tips trimmed and discarded
Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
2⁄3 cup soy sauce
Directions:
2⁄3 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1⁄8 teaspoon hot chili powder, preferably habanero
2 garlic cloves, minced
Combine the chicken wing pieces with a generous amount of salt and pepper in a large zippered plastic bag. Close the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or up to 24 hours. Preheat the oven to 225 F. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish in a single layer without crowding. In a small saucepan, stir together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, cayenne, chili powder, and garlic and heat to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Pour over the chicken. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and cook until the chicken is nearly falling off the bone, about 3 hours. Raise the oven temperature to 450 F and continue baking until the chicken browns and the sauce thickens into a glaze, about 10 minutes longer. Watch carefully near the end of the cooking time to avoid burning. Toss the wings in the sauce to coat and serve.
External Diploma Program
The National External Diploma Program offers adults 21 and over, the opportunity to receive credit for their life experiences, and earn a high school equivalency diploma without the challenge of taking lengthy timed examinations. NEDP, is a competency based program for students who are unable to attend classes or who prefer to work at home. Successful candidates for NEDP include former ESL students, students who have been out of school for prolonged periods of time, or students who fare better without the structure of tests. This program is an alternative to other programs.
Anyone interested should call Western Suffolk BOCES to meet with a counselor. Call 667-6000, Ext. 327 to register.
FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS
THURS. FEB. 6th
11:00AM LINDENHURST EVENING HOMEMAKERS GROUP
Join Lindenhurst Evening Homemakers Group at the North Amityville Senior Center 48 Cedar Rd. in Amityville. (off of New Hwy.) Open to all, 18 years old & up. Meetings start at 7pm & new members should arrive 15 min. early. Contact Lisa LeBrie at 516-413-7467 for more info
FRI. FEB. 7th
10:00AM-1:00PM
$5 BAG SALE
Simpson UMC will be having a $5 bag sale. Come and fill a bag which will be provided.Lots of other treasures will be available for purchase as well. Something for everyone! Simpson is located at 30 Locust Ave, Amityville, NY 11701. Call Mary for additional information 516-991-8098
SAT. FEB. 8th
10:30AM-12:30PM FOREST THERAPY WALK
Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy. in Great River. Join a certified forest therapy guide on a walk to slow down, wander, and notice the beauty of nature. This will be a lengthy walk, so please wear comfortable, study shoes and warm clothing. $45/pp. https://www.forestbathingfinder. com/
HOLIDAYS
2nd - Groundhog Day 14th - Valentine's Day 17th - Presidents' Day
MAKE A SUBMISSION!
Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Town Seniors Invited To Participate In Karaoke Program
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto invites seniors to participate in the Town of Oyster Bay Senior Karaoke Program, held at various community centers throughout the Town. The popular program, launched last year, saw such popularity it has returned bigger and better for residents who are interested in showing off their vocal talents.
The Senior Karaoke Program takes place on the following schedule: Mondays – 1 p.m. at Marjorie Post Center, 451 Unqua Rd, Massapequa Park
Wednesdays – 1 p.m. at the Glen Head Community Center, 200 Glen Head Rd, Glen Head
11:00AM-3:00PM
WINTERFEST 2025
Levittown Community Council
WinterFest 2025, Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road in Levittown. Free admission, crafts, entertainment, and eye screening.
OTHER: Featuring Nassau Lionel Operating Engineers, balloon magic by MsMatch the Clown, music by deejay Tim Aldridge. For information visit: levittowncouncil@yahoo.com
3:00PM
VALENTINE'S DAY CONCERT
Valentine's Day Concert
Featuring Kathryn Wilson, soprano soloist. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690. A free-will offering will be taken.
TUES. FEB. 11th
7:00PM
REPUBLIC AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
7150 Republic Airport, Room 201 in Farmingdale. For information call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email: info@republicairport.net
7:00PM
NARCAN TRAINING
Learn to save lives, free Naloxone/ Narcan training, sponsored by St. Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 29 Brooksite Drive in Smithtown. It’s a medication to reverse effects of an overdose of opioids and is taught by CN
Guidance & Counseling Services. Limited seating, RSVP: TEXT: 631374-9281, Pat Reynolds or EMAIL: stthomassundayschool@gmail.com
SAT. FEB. 15th
11:00AM-1:00PM
MAPLE SUGARING
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve. This interactive program geared for adults will teach you how to make your own maple syrup at home! Not recommended for children. Please call for Reservations 631-423- 1770. Registration Required
SUN. FEB. 16th
3:00PM-7:00PM ANNUAL OUTREACH DANCE SPONSORED BY THE LADIES ANCIENT ORDER OF HIBERNIANS
Join them for their Annual Fundraiser at Division 2 Hall in Babylon. $40 pp includes beer, wine, soda, buffet dinner, dessert, Irish coffee Bar. Bring a bag of non-perishable food for inclusion in a Special Raffle! Reservations are a MUST call or text Mary Gibbons 631-671-6178
FRI. FEB. 21st
6:3-PM TRIVIA NIGHT
N. Babylon Lions Club Trivia Night at North Babylon A. Tatti Youth Center, 213 Phelphs Lane in N. Babylon. $35pp includes Prizes, pizza, salad. Raffles and 50/50. RSVP by 2/10 to Diane @ 6315530217 or Judy @ 631-745-3007
“We’re calling all Town seniors who love to sing! This fun karaoke program will give you the opportunity to perform your favorite songs, from the tunes of Sinatra and Greatest Hits of the ‘80s to Today’s Top Songs, all in a social, welcoming environment,” Councilman Imbroto said. “Join us to make new friends and perhaps even discover a new favorite song.”
Thursdays – 11 a.m. at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 W Carl St in Hicksville
Great singing skills aren’t necessary to join the fun; residents are welcome to attend without performing. There is no registration required for this program. A full karaoke machine, song list and light refreshments will be provided. For more information, please call the Department of Community and Youth Services, Senior Citizen Services Division, at (516) 797-7916.
Imbroto Announces Free Musical Performances At Local Libraries For February And
March
Enjoy The Sounds Traditional Irish Music, Tom Petty, Frank Sinatra And More
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto announced that the Distinguished Artists Concert Series will continue through May 2025 with free performances at local libraries throughout the Town.
“The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” said Councilman Imbroto. “I encourage residents to take advantage of these wonderful performances offered by the Town for free at local libraries.”
Scheduled performances for February and March include:
• Alexander Wu & His Trio on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Massapequa Public Library – Three Centuries of the African Diaspora highlights the vast contributions to music by both Africans and the descendants of enslaved Africans from around the world.
• The Brooklyn Bards on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Massapequa Public Library – Experience the deep lyrics and rich melodies of traditional Irish music.
• The Paul Joseph Trio on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Jericho Public Library – This jazz trio presents classic favorites, as you have never heard them before! Open to all. Free tickets required. Tickets available at the library beginning February 9th. For more information call the library at (516) 935-6790.
• The Traditions on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the Farmingdale Public Library – Vocal harmony at its best! Performing “Teardrops,” “In the Still of the Night,” “Daddy’s Home,” and many more!
• Phil Costa & The Something Special Big Band on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 4:00 pm at the Plainview-Old Bethpage
Saladino And Maier To Commemorate National Wear Red Day In Oyster Bay Employees
And Residents Encouraged
To Wear Red On Friday, February 7th
Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Councilwoman Laura Maier invite Town employees and residents across Long Island to wear red on Friday, February 7th in recognition of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) National Wear Red Day. This initiative helps raise awareness in the fight against our nation’s number one killer of women, cardiovascular disease. As part of National Wear Red Day, Supervisor Saladino and the Town Board will illuminate Town Hall North in red.
a significant threat to women’s health, as nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented through awareness and early detection, and heart disease is the number one killer of women age 25 and older. As a nation, we must make every effort to reverse these statistics by supporting research and education initiatives.”
are encouraged to wear red on February 7th.
Public Library – One of the finest nostalgia/jazz swing bands in the New York TriState area. Open to all. Free tickets required. Tickets available at the library beginning March 10th. For more information call the library at (516) 938-0077 ext. 489.
• Breakdown on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Hicksville Public Library – One of the finest tributes to the music of Tom Petty.
• Echoes of Sinatra on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Hicksville Public Library – Keeping the “Sinatra” memory alive!
The Distinguished Artists Concert Series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community & Youth Services. For the full concert schedule and further information, please call (516) 797-7900 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com/CAPA.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “February is American Heart Month, and as such, the Town Board and I are proud to help unify the Town for National Wear Red Day to come together and unleash a wave of red from the Atlantic Ocean to the Long Island Sound! Cardiovascular disease continues to be
Go Red for Women was created in 2004 after statistics showed that nearly 500,000 American women were being killed each year by cardiovascular disease. The AHA’s Go Red for Women campaign urges women to take charge of their health. In 2014, the American Heart Association launched their new “Life is Why” campaign to create a more personal and emotional connection with consumers to ask themselves why we do what we do, or more specifically why we should choose to live healthier lifestyles. Town employees
Councilwoman Maier stated, “Established by six cardiologists in 1924, the AHA has spent billions on research to increase our knowledge about cardiovascular diseases and stroke and has funded life-saving educational programs and tools for physicians. Heart disease is the number one killer worldwide, and strokes rank second globally, and it is vital that we raise awareness about their potential lethality, especially in women. I am proud to help lead the National Wear Red Day initiative here in the Town and I encourage all of our employees to wear red on Friday, February 7th.”
Additional information about National Wear Red Day and Go Red for Women is available by calling 1-888-MYHEART or visiting www. GoRedForWomen.org.
NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY
THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1166
Farmingdale, NY 11735
Email: inbox@farmingdalenychamber.org
OFFICERS
JOSEPH GARCIA, PRESIDENT
Weichert Realtors Performance Homes (516) 449-2028 Jagarcia@WeichertPH.com
BETH MIGNONE, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Mignone’s Masonry (631) 270-4265 beth@mignoneconstruction.com
KEN MARCUS Marcus Family Agency - Allstate Insurance Co. (516) 753-2600 kennethmarcus@allstate.com
DIRECTORS
JOANNE BENINCASA Joseph Benincasa State Farm Agency (631) 465-9070 joanne.benincasa.vaakry@statefarm.com
JOEL BLITZER Brooks Waterburn Corp. (516) 997-9800 jblitzer@brookswaterburn.com
ALBERT CELESTE Weichert Realtor & Licensed Public Adjuster (516) 369-5127 albertceleste105@gmail.com
RALPH EKSTRAND Moby Drugs (516) 249-0268 chip7iron@aol.com
CATHERINE GABRESKI 317 Main Street (516) 249-0268 catherine@317MainStreet.com
KATHY LIVELY Farmingdale Public Schools (516) 967-4028 nutzymom03@aol.com
CHRISTA LUCARELLI Farmingdale Public Library (516) 249-9090 christalucarelli@yahoo.com
JOSEPH MINIERI, VICE PRESIDENT Financial Advisor (631) 851-5787 jmminieri@optonline.net
VICTORIA LEFAYT, SECRETARY First National Bank (631) 465-9130 victoria.lefayt@fnbli.com
SUZANNE LOBIONDO, CPA, TREASURER (516) 791-1303 suzanne@lobiondocpa.com
DEBBIE PODOLSKI, BOARD MEMBER EMERITUS dpodolski319@gmaill.com
ANTHONY RAHANIOTIS Embassy Diner (516) 297-8708 raha21isles@yahoo.com
RON ROLLERI Schwartz Ettenger, PLLC (631) 777-2401 x32 ron@delawny.com
DAVE SAUL Marketing Masters NY (516) 987-5001 dave@narjetubgnastersny.com
WILLIAM TRUDDEN / ROSEMARY TRUDDEN McCourt & Trudden Funeral Home (516) 249-1303 williamtrudden@yahoo.com
SILVIA VARGAS ProPac Marketing (631) 420-4080 sales@propac-marketing.com
JO WIDER, ADMINISTRATOR (516) 286-7800 inbox@farmingdalenychamber.org
Dear Farmingdale!
Joining the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce isn’t just a membership - it’s a game-changer for your business! Whether you’re running a brickand-mortar shop, an online store, or a home-based business, the Chamber opens doors to incredible opportunities. Imagine gaining access to exclusive networking events, promotional platforms, and a community of like-minded business owners who want to see you succeed. We’re here to help you grow your visibility, connect with customers, and take your business to the next level. When you join, you’re not just signing up; you’re stepping into a powerhouse of support and resources designed to fuel your success.
If you’re a home - based business, this is your moment to shine! The Chamber helps you stand out and be seen, even without a physical storefront. With our social media spotlights, event partnerships, and member directories, you’ll gain the exposure and credibility you deserve. Customers love to support businesses that are active in the community, and being part of the Chamber instantly sets you apart. Plus, your membership doesn’t just benefit your business - it also helps support meaningful community causes. From charitable initiatives to events that bring our town together, your membership dollars go further by contributing to efforts that make Farmingdale a better place for everyone.
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you - join the Chamber and create them! Together, we can make Farmingdale the ultimate hub for businesses of all sizes. Let’s grow, thrive, and make an impact - starting today!
Warmest regards,
Joseph Garcia President Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce
(Monday - ursday)
Includes: Soup or Salad (Tossed or Caesar)
ENTRÉE: Pasta, Chicken, Veal, Filet of Sole or Eggplant, served with Vegetable of the Day
3
Soup or Salad (Tossed or Caesar)
ENTRÉE: Pasta, Chicken, Veal, Filet of Sole or Eggplant, served with Vegetable of the Day & Cheesecake or Cannoli
(Monday - ursday) +TAX
•
•
(1
•
(2 SCOOPS OF ICE
• BROWNIE BOWL
(1 BROWNIE, 1 SCOOP OF ICE
•
•
•
• CRUNCHIES
• CHOCOLATE CHIPS
• REESE’S PIECES
• PEANUT BUTTER CHIPS
•
•
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Bethpage
Farmingdale
234 Broadway, Bethpage
234 Broadway, Bethpage (516) 931-1454
Farmingdale
ArthurFWhite.com
315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale (516) 931-1454
315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale (516) 249-0336
ArthurFWhite.com (516) 249-0336
“A Tradition of Caring Since 1923”
“A Tradition of Caring Since 1923”
Family Owned & Operated
Family Owned and Operated
Oldest established business in Farmingdale and Bethpage.
Oldest established businesses in Farmingdale and Bethpage.
Proud members of both Farmingdale & Bethpage Chambers of Commerce and Historical Societies, Farmingdale Rotary Club, St. Kilian Women’s Guild, Farmingdale Junior League and the Knights of Columbus.
Proud members of both Farmingdale & Bethpage Chambers of Commerce and Historical Societies, Farmingdale Rotary Club,
Owner/Operator - Nancy J. White
Manager - William D. Parsons
Funeral Directors - Stephen J. Mahoney, William J. Dowling & Jayme R. Elia
St. Kilian Women’s Guild, Farmingdale Junior League and the Knights of Columbus.
Verona Salad
Rice Balls
Stracciatella Soup
Mozzarella Caprese
Eggplant Rollatini
Artichoke Oreganata
Caesar Salad Baked Clams Pasta e Fagoli Soup
Choose Any Entrée From Chef Specials, Additional $
$5995 Prix Fixe
Fried Calamari (Traditional or Sweet Chili)
Penne Alla Vodka
Shallots, Prosciutto, Vodka in Tomato Basil Sauce with A Touch Of Cream
Pappardelle di Manzo
Tossed in Authentic Bolognese Sauce, Topped with Ricotta Cheese
Zucchini Linguini
In a Spicy Marinara Sauce with Crispy Shitake Mushrooms
Eggplant Parmesan
Baked in Marinara Sauce, Topped with Melted Mozzarella
Pollo
Francese, Parmigiana, Marsala, Toscano
Veal
Piccata, Marsala, Parmigiana, Sorrentino
Pork Chop
Mushrooms, Onions, Cherry Peppers Served with Roasted Potato & Vegetables
Scampi con Risotto
Garlic, Butter, White Wine & Lemon, Served Over Risotto & Vegetables
Salmone Fiorentina
Wild Salmon pan seared in a lemon beurre blanc, served with sautéed spinach
Sole Portofino
Parmesan Encrusted in a Lemon White Wine Sauce, Served with Risotto
Striped Squid Ink Lobster Ravioli
(Add $6) Squid Ink & Egg Dough Lobster Ravioli
Sautéed in a Lobster Sauce
Branzino Oreganata
(Add $6) Fresh Mediterranean Sea Bass Topped with Seasoned Breadcrumbs in a Lemon White Wine Sauce with Shrimp
Crispy Duck
(Add $6) Fresh Long Island Duck in an Orange Cranberry Glaze Served with Wild Rice & Vegetables
Steak
(Add $6) Grilled, Topped with Asparagus & Melted Mozzarella in Barolo Sauce Served with Onion Rings
Cannoli • Flourless Chocolate Cake • Tiramisu
Unified Window Systems Inc. Honors Founder Steven Joseph DiMare, Welcomes His Son As New CEO To Continue His Legacy
It is with great sadness that Unified Window Systems Inc. announces the passing of its founder and CEO, Steven Joseph DiMare, on January 6, 2025. Steve established the family-owned and operated business in 1989 with a vision of providing highquality home improvement services while treating every customer like family. Family meant everything to Steve, and he made sure to treat his employees and customers as such. After all, home is where the heart is.
Steve’s journey in the construction industry
began humbly, working as a young laborer carrying windows up multiple flights of stairs in New York City. Over the years, he advanced from laborer to installer to foreman, before eventually founding Unified Window Systems Inc. in 1989, starting as one showroom in Hempstead Village. His grit, dedication, and ambition turned Unified into a trusted name in the home remodeling industry, completing over 350,000 projects across the New York Metro area. In 2019, with the help of his son, Steven Michael DiMare, the
company obtained a DBA as Unified Home Remodeling in order to showcase its evolution into a full-service remodeling provider. What began as a window installation company now offers a wide array of home improvement services, including doors, siding, roofing, masonry, fencing, decking, and more.
Steve’s commitment to quality and customer care extended beyond his business. He was heavily involved with New Ground, a local charity dedicated to helping veterans and families break the cycle
Families Anonymous Virtual Meetings
12-Step support group giving Hope & Strength to parents, family and friends concerned with a loved one’s destructive behavior caused by Alcohol, Drugs or Related Behavioral Problems is now meeting virtually until further notice. For further information e-mail or call:
Donna526@aol.com or (631) 835.8788; Diane (631) 587.0966, www. FamiliesAnonymous.org
Councilman Hand Invites Residents
To
Apply For Picnic Permits Online Online Picnic Reservations
Now Available For Local Parks
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand announced that residents can apply for picnic permits at all Town parks with picnic facilities online by visiting www. oysterbaytown.com/ picnic. Reservations are available for picnic space at Marjorie R. Post Community Park in Massapequa, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park and Beach in Oyster Bay, Harry Tappen Beach and Marina in Glenwood Landing, SyossetWoodbury Community Park, and Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park.
of homelessness. His contributions to the community and generosity of spirit will remain central to Unified’s mission.
As Unified moves into the next chapter, the company is proud to announce that Steven M. DiMare will assume the role of CEO. Steven began working for the family business in high school, learning the company from the ground up—as his father did before him—beginning as a warehouse worker, then a laborer, a quality control inspector, and a home remodeling expert. A graduate of the University of Michigan, Steven began
working as Unified’s marketing director in 2019, before being promoted to Vice President, where he worked diligently alongside his father in anticipation of Steve’s intended retirement in the next few years. Though that timeline has now been moved up, Steven is confident that Unified’s legacy as a dependable and beloved provider of home improvements will continue.
“Unified Home Remodeling is more than just a company; it’s a family,” remarked Steven M. DiMare. “My father’s dedication to quality,
honesty, and treating every customer like family has set the standard for everything we do. With the incredible team my father built and the support of my family, we will continue to uphold those principles and grow Unified for generations to come.”
Unified’s success has been driven by its team, many of whom have been with the company for decades. This loyalty, coupled with a 99.6% customer satisfaction rating, underscores Unified’s dedication to excellence and the legacy Steven Joseph DiMare leaves behind.
New York State Senator
Steve Rhoads Attends Grand Opening Of McGrath’s Pub
And Grill In Farmingdale
“Our beautiful Town Parks are the perfect location for a family, school, or community group outing set in the great outdoors. Each location, from Roosevelt Beach in Oyster Bay to Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa, offers something unique for residents to enjoy,” Councilman Hand said. “We’ve also streamlined the process for residents to apply for a picnic permit, helping to increase convenience and accessibility.”
locations are covered, have access to water, and permit barbequing.
Picnic Permits are required for groups of 25 or more at all Town of Oyster Bay picnic pavilion locations and include exclusive use of the permitted area from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the reservation date. Some
To view picnic availability, residents can visit www.oysterbaytown. com/picnic and filter their preferred date, facility, specific location, and features using the page menu. Those who don’t have a pre-existing account can create one on the same page and apply for the reservation. It is recommended that residents reserve their picnic pavilion early as spaces fill up quickly for the season. For more information on Town of Oyster Bay picnic permits, call (516) 797-4139.
NYS
- On January 17, New York
and the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the grand opening of LI McGrath’s Pub and Grill. The new establishment offers a menu featuring Irish favorites, American classics with a modern twist, and small plates. Senator Rhoads extended his best wishes for the pub’s success in the years to come.
SENATOR STEVE RHOADS ATTENDS GRAND OPENING
State Senator Steve Rhoads joined community members, local business owners, Mayor Ralph Ekstrand, Councilman Tom Hand, Councilman Lou Imbroto,
Now Hiring Advertising Account Representatives
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Young Leader Takes The Helm Third-Grader From Northside Elementary Wins “Superintendent-For-A-Day” Raffle And Learns About Leadership
Jack Lamonte, a student at Northside Elementary School, won the prestigious “Superintendent-for-a-Day” raffle in December during the Dalers Deck the Halls breakfast. This unique opportunity allowed Jack to shadow Superintendent Paul Defendini and gain a firsthand understanding of the role’s responsibilities. On January 13, Superintendent Defendini surprised Jack in his third-grade classroom at Northside Elementary, presenting him with an
official Superintendent ID badge and congratulating him on his achievement.
Jack was instructed to report to the Superintendent’s office on January 23, 2025, dressed professionally.
Mr. Defendini shared a detailed schedule for their day, filled with experiences aimed at giving Jack an insight into the life of a Superintendent. With his supportive parents by his side, Jack enthusiastically shadowed Superintendent Defendini throughout the
day—Daler, of course, was there too. His adventure began in Mr. Defendini’s office, nestled within the Central Administrative wing of Howitt Middle School. There, Jack put pen to paper, signing a few official documents before setting off for a tour of the bustling Farmingdale High School. His eyes widened with excitement as he explored the culinary and robotics classrooms, the theater space that particularly captivated
him, and even the cafeteria, where he chatted with the kitchen staff about a special meal for Northside.
The afternoon brought Jack back to his own stomping ground, Northside Elementary, where he had a friendly meeting with Principal Dr. Christopher Peterson. He made time to catch up with his former teachers and playfully requested a homework-free night for his classmates.
Jack also joined his class for a unique music lesson,
where the talented William Herbert, Bob Silverstein, and Madelyn Jimenez from the Farmingdale High School theater program joined them for a session filled with melodies and improvisation. The day wound down at Howitt Middle School, where Jack was treated to a tour of the top-notch Aquatic Center. He then recorded a heartfelt audio message for his fellow Dalers, wrapping up an unforgettable day of discovery and learning.
Superintendent Paul Defendini couldn’t help but express his admiration, “Jack’s professionalism and enthusiasm were truly inspiring. His attentiveness to staff, welcoming smiles, firm handshakes, and a keen eye for detail were remarkable. Having him accompany me throughout the day was an absolute pleasure.”
Photos courtesy of the Farmingdale School District
Valentine’s Day is steeped in tradition. Giving flowers is a popular tradition each February 14, and the National Retail Federation estimates that people spend around $2.6 billion on flowers for Valentine’s Day, when an estimated 250 million stems of flowers are sold globally. Valentine’s Day is the most lucrative day for florists, with the red rose the most popular flower given on this day for lovebirds.
Just because millions of roses are prepared in advance of Valentine’s Day sales doesn’t mean this is the type of flower that one has to choose for a bouquet or arrangement. A surprise bouquet can feature unique blooms. Here are tips to give the perfect bouquet to the person who claims your heart.
Pick The Perfect Valentine’s Day Flowers
• Identify your loved one’s favorite colors and flowers. Understanding your partner’s floral preferences is the first step in choosing a Valentine’s Day arrangement. Many have a favorite flower type or color, and everyone’s isn’t necessarily a red rose. Some people love bright daffodils, while others like exotic lilies. Pay attention to these likes to select flowers that will delight your partner.
• Select fresh flowers. When buying flowers in person, make sure they are fresh by gently feeling the part of the petal that meets the stem. If this part is firm, then the flower is fresh.
• Opt for neutral tones. If you’re unsure of which flowers to buy, stick with varietals in white and soft,
neutral tones. This will lend a more romantic vibe to the bouquet. Bright, high-contrast florals may come off as tacky unless you can guarantee that the person prefers them.
• Keep allergies in mind. Valentine’s Day should be about offering love, not a case of the sniffles. If the person in your life suffers from floral allergies, avoid certain blooms, like sunflowers, chrysanthemums and hyacinths, suggests Funny How Flowers Do That, a United Kingdom-based flower company. Tulips, irises and hydrangea are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
• Order early. Time is of the essence when getting flowers for Valentine’s Day. Florists may rush or have fewer flowers to work with as Valentine’s Day draws closer. Ordering well in advance means you’ll get your desired arrangement. Choosing flowers comes
down to a few simple steps to offer a gift of love on Valentine’s Day.
Treehouse For Kids
(NAPSI)—Treehouse is a nonprofit committed to youth in foster care achieving a degree or other career credential, living-wage job and stable housing. The organization partners with thousands of youth to provide access to childhood experiences and critical resources as they plan for the future. Learn how you can get involved at www.treehouseforkids.org.
CLEANING STARTING AT $7 5. HOUSEWASHING STARTING AT $99/SIDE Morn ing, Afteno on, Evening, Sa turday Appts Ava ila bl e Family owned & Oper ated since 1979 Call or Text (516) 889 7926
