A wave of pride and emotion filled the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University on June 17, as the Farmingdale High School Class of 2025 marked the culmination of their academic journey in a memorable graduation ceremony. Families, friends, faculty, and distinguished guests celebrated the accomplishments of over 500 students who have navigated a high school experience defined by adaptability and determination.
Photo courtesy of the FarmingdaleSchool District
July 4 Pool Party Safety
Americans gather in backyards across the United States in celebration of the nation’s independence each July. Festivities often include delicious foods cooked on the grill, music, laughter, and, if there is a pool in the yard, hours of splashing around.
Pools are great places to cool off from the hot sun. But pools also can be dangerous. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, drowning remains the No. 1 threat to children. Previous July 4 drownings should serve as sober warnings to those planning to celebrate in and around a pool this Independence Day. Simple precautionary measures can save lives.
• Never leave a child unattended in a pool or around any body of water no matter how small, even for a minute.
• Teach children basic water safety.
• Avoid overloading the pool
with too many boisterous swimmers, especially if adults, older kids and young kids are in the water. Small children can quickly get lost in the fray.
• Avoid swimming if you have been consuming alcohol.
• Designate a lifeguard, whether it’s a hired, certified professional, or someone who has taken on the task and will keep eyes fixed on the pool at all times while swimmers are present.
• Establish rules and enforce them. Prohibit diving into shallow water and running around the slippery edge of the pool.
• Learn how to administer CPR to both children and adults.
• If a child goes missing, look for him or her in the pool first.
• Minimize the use of pool floats that can obscure the view of the pool floor when there are many swimmers present.
• Keep a phone handy at all time. Promptly call for emergency services if the need arises.
• Ensure everyone immediately exits the pool if thunder is heard or lightning is seen.
• Turn off the filter pump while guests are swimming, particularly to protect against entrapment on pool drains or pipes.
• The American Association of Pediatrics advises against allowing infants and toddlers in hot tubs. Older children should not be in a hot tub for more than 20 minutes at a time.
• Be sure the water chemistry is balanced in pools and spas so that swimmers are not irritated by the chemicals and the water is sanitary. Also, keep in mind that swim diapers are not foolproof. Check youngsters often so that waste does not end up in the pool.
LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION
Joe Lambert
Ethan Keattikul
ASSISTANT
Diana Lambert
PRODUCTION
MANAGER
Josh Marlowe GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
MANAGING
Felicia Edwards MARKETING MANAGER
Noelle Lambert
Carol
Bob
Nicole
Bonnie Schifano
Lucille Moran
Terry Rydyzynski
Noelle Lambert
Victoria Kokolakis
Stephan Schulze
PROOFREADING
Kerry Mastrobuoni
RECIPE OF THE WEEK:
Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Greek Couscous
TheFourth of July is a day to celebrate the birthday of the United States of America. Americans celebrate the Fourth of July in various ways, many of which involve spending time outdoors with family and friends. Grilling delicious foods often is part of the July 4 game plan. Burgers, hot dogs and chicken drumsticks will never fall out of favor for Fourth of July fare, but savvy grillmasters know to pepper the offerings with foods that will tempt palates in unique ways. This recipe for “Grilled Eggplant with Feta and Greek Couscous” from “Cooking Light Fresh Food Superfast” (Oxmoor House) by the Cooking Light Editors appeals to vegetarians, vegetable lovers and anyone who wants something a little lighter from the grill.
Serves 4
2 small eggplants (about 1 pound each), each cut into 4 lengthwise slices
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat grill.
2. Drizzle eggplant slices with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill 6 minutes on each side or until tender. Sprinkle eggplant with cheese; grill 2 minutes or until cheese melts.
3. While eggplant grills, prepare Greek Couscous.
4. Place 2 eggplant slices on each of 4 plates. Top each serving with 1 cup couscous. Garnish with oregano sprigs, if desired.
1 15-ounce can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate 10 minutes.
JULY HAPPENINGS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2nd
7:30PM
FARMINGDALE VILLAGE POPS
ON THE VILLAGE GREEN
Farmingdale Village Pops On the Village Green, 43rd Season and Crowd Favorite! Wednesdays July 2nd, July 9th, July 16th, July 23rd & July 30th. Held on the Village Green, 361 Main Street, or along Main Street (as noted). Outdoor events are weather permitting. Bring chairs/blankets for seating for Movies, Pops concerts & theatre performance. For more information, please call Farmingdale Village, 516-249-0093
FRIDAY, JULY 4th
8:30AM-12:00PM
INDEPENDENCE DAY 4 MILE RUN/WALK
At Bellmore Fire House, 230 Pettit Ave Bellmore. 8:30AM 4 Mile Start, 8:00AM 1 Mile Start. Rain or Shine. Sanctioned by USATF-LONG ISLAND & an individual scoring race in the USATF-LI Grand Prix. All are welcome, you can also become a member today to score! This event is a USATF-Long Island fundraiser, with all proceeds going directly to Long Island Track & Field. For more information, please call 516-531-3323
SATURDAY, JULY 5th
3:00PM
CONCERT OF PATRIOTIC MUSIC
Celebrating God and Country featuring Kathryn Wilson, soprano soloist. A free-will offering will be taken. Grace United Methodist, 515 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690
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
SATURDAY, JULY 12th & SUNDAY, JULY 13th
10:00AM-6:00PM LONG BEACH ARTS AND CRAFTS BOARDWALK FESTIVAL
The City of Long Beach Department of Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce that the 2025 Arts and Crafts Boardwalk Festival has returned. Vendor applications are available. All artisans are encouraged to apply! For more information, please call 516-705-7414
THROUGH JULY 13th
5-11PM WEEKDAYS AND NOON-11 PM SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS & JULY 4th
EMPIRE STATE FAIR
This family-fun annual event features a variety of live entertainment, four nights of spectacular Fireworks by Grucci, exciting rides and games for the whole family, and plenty of delicious fair food. For more information, please call 866-666-3247
SATURDAY, JULY 19th
10:00AM-4:00PM ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
Wantagh Preservation Society's 4th Annual Antique Car Show.(Rain date Sunday July 20th) Wantagh Preservation Society Museum, 1700 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. Cars from 1960's & older. Entrance fee $1. Refreshments for sale, 50/50 raffle, music! Go inside Wantagh's 1885 Train Station, Wantagh's 1907 Post office & get your free ticket to board the 1912 Jamaica Parlor car, (Parlor car open from 12 - 2pm). emailWantaghmuseum@gmail.com (Matt)
Discover The Orthodox Christian Church (English Language Services)
The Orthodox Church offers you the authentic Christian Tradition maintained without innovation since Apostolic times, which fulfills life on a daily basis, not just on Sunday. We welcome all people seeking a community rooted in the oldest Christian Church with an emphasis on Holy Scripture, Holy Tradition, liturgical and prayer life, and traditional Christian
6:30PM-10:30PM
HAWAIIAN LUAU
Grab your grass skirt & Hawaiian shirt. Brumidi Lodge, Deer Park is hosting a HAWAIIAN LUAU. Hawaiian Style Buffet Dinner, Slushies & soda included, Tiki Bar, Brumidi’s Famous Hawaiian Entertainment DJ Gene & Joanne Spinning in the Music Hut. Raffles & Much More Summer Fun For tickets and more information, please call Anita 631-422-6914. Sons & Daughters of Italy in America 2075 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park.
SUNDAY, JULY 20th
11:00AM-4:00PM
SPIRIT OF SUMMER ART FESTIVAL Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Rd. N. Huntington Station. A day of celebrating inclusion and diversity in the arts, hand-made goods, community, food trucks, raffles, games, music performances, fun crafts and activities for the whole family! Hosted by the Spirit of Huntington, a non-profit community art center that teaches creative expression classes to all ages and all abilities. Connected with over 500 participants and dozens of local organizations across Long Island. For more information, please call 631-470-9620
MONDAY, JULY 21st
9:00AM-12:00PM
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 36 E. John Street in Lindenhurst. July 21st through July 25th. Bible lessons, Music, Games, Crafts, Snacks, and more! FREE!! Grades K-6th. Register at https:// saintjohnsvbs.myanswers.com
Passwords on Multiple Accounts
(NAPSI)—According to a recent Aware poll, most people use the same password across multiple accounts, which means that if a hacker has a password to one account, they can likely access several of that person’s accounts. For further facts, visit www.aware.com.
values. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated every Sunday at 9:30 AM (Hours at 9:00 AM) at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 369 Green Avenue, East Meadow. Coffee hour follows the Divine Liturgy. Services are also streamed on https://www.facebook. com/htocem. All services are conducted in English. Additional information and schedules can be found on the parish website, www. htocem.org, or by email, htocem@gmail.com.
A New Chapter Begins Farmingdale High School Graduates Celebrate Their Achievements And Look Forward To A Future Of Endless Possibilities
A wave of pride and emotion filled the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University on June 17, as the Farmingdale High School Class of 2025 marked the culmination of their academic
journey in a memorable graduation ceremony. Led by Principal Jed Herman and Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini, the evening was a stirring tribute to the resilience, achievement, and unity of the
2025 graduating class. Families, friends, faculty, and distinguished guests celebrated the accomplishments of over 500 students who have navigated a high school experience defined by adaptability and determination. In his opening remarks, Principal Herman applauded the graduates for their unwavering commitment to excellence and their role in shaping a vibrant and inclusive school culture. “This class has led with heart, intellect, and purpose,” he said. “They are prepared not only to face the future, but to shape it.” Superintendent Defendini echoed those sentiments, recognizing the Farmingdale community’s strength and its graduates’ limitless potential. “This is a moment of celebration not just for these students, but for all who have supported them—teachers, parents, and peers. The Class of 2025 has made us proud every step of the way.”
The ceremony featured uplifting speeches by Class Valedictorian Shea Hiotidis and Salutatorian Jaylyn Umana, followed by the Farmingdale Board of Education presenting diplomas to the Class of 2025. The evening concluded with the traditional turning of the tassels, symbolizing both an ending
and a beginning, as the Farmingdale High School Class of 2025 stepped boldly into the future. Congratulations to the Class of 2025—Go Dalers!
Farmingdale High School Principal Jed Herman. Photo courtesy of the Island Photo
Photo courtesy of the Island Photo
Photo courtesy of the Island Photo
Farmingdale High School Valedictorian Shea Hiotidis. Photo courtesy of the Island Photo
Farmingdale High School Salutatorian Jayln Umana. Photo courtesy of the Island Photo
Photo courtesy of the Island Photo
Photo courtesy of the Farmingdale School District
Farmingdale Hosts Long Island Coaching Collaborative
The Farmingdale School District proudly hosted the Long Island Coaching Collaborative on May 30 at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School. This organization provides a valuable opportunity for educational coaches to come together, learn from one another, and enhance their practices. Farmingdale welcomed
over 100 coaches representing twenty-eight school districts across Long Island. At the beginning of the event, attendees were greeted by Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Jennifer Olsen. “These workshops offered us an opportunity
to share out some of the great work that’s happening in Farmingdale and collaborate with peers from over twenty-five districts who are doing fantastic work across the island,” said Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. “I am incredibly grateful for the team of leaders we have here in Farmingdale
Town Sanitation, Recycling Collection Modified For Independence Day
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Lou Imbroto reminds residents that Town sanitation and S.O.R.T. Recycling collection schedules will be modified for the observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 4th.
“There will be no sanitation or recycling collection on Friday, July 4th for residents who normally receive Town service,” Councilman Imbroto said. “Residents who generally receive Town pickup on Fridays will have their collections done the
next day, Saturday, July 5th.”
The Councilman added that Town offices will be closed on July 4th, but beaches, parks and pools will remain open. For more information, visit the Town’s website, www. oysterbaytown.com.
NEW Program Alert: Registration Now Open For Pilates In The Park
Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announced that registration for the Town’s New Pilates in the Park program is now underway. This program will be held on Saturdays at Theodore Roosevelt Park beginning July 19th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and run for 10 weeks.
Councilwoman Walsh stated, “Balencing wellness
and athleticism, the Pilates in the Park program is perfect for all levels and abilities. Register today for an easygoing way to boost your core, improve posture, and reduce stress, all while enjoying the outdoors at one of the most beautiful parks in the Town of Oyster Bay!” Registration is online at: www.oysterbaytown.com/ sports. The resident fee is
$60, and new participants must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid photo ID. The non-resident fee is $70. Participants must provide their own mat. Classes will take place in the grassy area near the seawall. For more information, please call (516) 797-7945 or visit www.oysterbaytown. com
for organizing today’s enriching and energizing workshops.” Participants had the opportunity to attend various breakout sessions tailored to their specific coaching needs. Topics ranged from Access for All in Math to the Science of Reading. Each session was led by experienced Farmingdale School District employees
who encouraged active participation and the exchange of ideas.
In addition to the formal sessions, the event provided ample networking opportunities, allowing coaches to build connections and share best practices with their peers. The collaborative atmosphere was palpable, with many attendees
expressing gratitude for the chance to learn in such a supportive environment. The Long Island Coaching Collaborative continues to be a cornerstone for professional growth among educational coaches, and the Farmingdale School District was proud to contribute to this vital initiative. #dalerpride
The Farmingdale School District hosted the Long Island Coaching Collaborative on May 30 at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School, bringing together over 100 coaches from 28 districts. The event began with greetings from Superintendent Paul Defendini and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Olsen, promoting collaboration and practice enhancement among educational coaches. Photos courtesy of the Farmingdale School District
“Shootout for Soldiers” Charitable Lacrosse Marathon To Support Vets
Event Benefits U.S. Troops, Honors Vietnam Veterans With Medals & Features A Parachute Landing
Oyster Bay Town
Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board will host the 11th Annual “Shootout for Soldiers” 24-Hour Lacrosse Benefit Game at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Field of Dreams Athletic Complex, located on Old Sunrise Highway in Massapequa.
This year’s event begins on Wednesday, July 9th at 9:00 a.m., and continues to Thursday, July 10th to 9:00 a.m. The event benefits veterans and active duty military personnel. The Long Island Air Force Association will conduct a special ceremony on July 9th at 5:00 p.m. to honor hometown Vietnam War Veterans and present them with medals that commemorate their service
to our nation. There will be a parachute landing on the field conducted by the “All Veterans Group,” which will deliver the official ball on Friday at 6pm.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “Shootout for Soldiers is a wonderful event that provides local lacrosse players a chance to enjoy a sport they love in a unique way while also raising charitable funds to support the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Whether you enjoy lacrosse or are just looking for a fun-family event, I invite residents to be a part of the festivities.”
The charitable funds raised at Shootout for Soldiers will benefit the Long Island Air Force
Association, Strongpoint Theinert Ranch, and The Warrior Ranch Foundation.
The event features 24 1-hour sessions. The score is cumulative, resulting in unique scores for a lacrosse game with totals reaching into the hundreds. Participants include children, adults, seniors, youth, high school, college players and veterans. Teams that accommodate players with special needs are also scheduled to play. For more information, please visit http:// shootoutforsoliders. com or contact Harry Jacobs at longisland@ shootoutforsoldiers.com or at (516) 315-3002.
19-Year-Old College Student Brings 11-Hour Music Festival To Patchogue This Summer
On July 12, 2025, Long Island’s new youth-led music festival, Gaze in the Garden, is coming to Stereo Garden (9 Railroad Avenue in Patchogue) for an 11-hour celebration of punk, indie, emo, and experimental sounds. Organized by 19-yearold Jess Bond of Bond Booking, this brand new fest will showcase a vibrant, genre-bending lineup of local favorites and touring acts.
The festival is entirely independent and youthrun, with a strong focus on community, creativity, and giving back. Bond, who studies music business at Berklee College of Music, created Gaze in the Garden as a platform to showcase underground artists and bring together a scene that too often gets overlooked.
The inaugural festival will proudly partner
with Hungry for Music, a nonprofit that provides musical instruments to underprivileged children and school programs. 15% of all proceeds will be donated directly to the organization to support music access for youth across the country. Featuring over a dozen bands, including two massive out-ofstate headliners, local heavy-hitters and rising underground gems, this
festival is not one to miss for any music lover!
Festival goers can expect a rotating schedule of live performances, community vendors and an open re-entry policy, encouraging attendees to explore the local shops and restaurants in downtown Patchogue throughout the day.
With an overwhelming response to the lineup teaser post, Gaze in the Garden is already proving
to be one of Long Island’s most talked-about underground events.
“This isn’t just a show, it’s something way bigger than that,” says Bond.
“It’s proof that young people can build real opportunities when they have the drive and the community behind them. I want to make a space where artists feel valued and fans feel something they’ll never forge.”
Tickets are available
now via https://tinyurl. com/5fuak6ep. Early bird tickets grant access to a secret backyard pre-party and are selling fast.
About Bond Booking: Founded and run by student and entrepreneur Jess Bond, Bond Booking represents over 30 artists across genres and specializes in curating unforgettable events that prioritize community, creativity and independence.
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Free Pool Safety Seminar Offered By Town And Catholic Health
Oyster Bay Town
Supervisor Joseph Saladino, members of the Town Board and Catholic Health are partnering to offer residents a Free Pool Safety Seminar on Tuesday, July 8th, at 1 p.m. at Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, located at 7800 Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury. Families are encouraged to attend as
children under the age of 15 make up more than 78 percent of pool submersion injuries in the United States annually, with 67 percent of them including children under the age of three.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “Nothing is more important than the safety of our children, and to improve pool safety we
offer this seminar to with the goal of saving lives through public education and awareness. We want you to have lots of fun in the sun while always be prepared to respond to emergencies.”
Seminar attendees will learn from professionals about healthy swimming, basic first aid, hypothermia, cramping, drowning
prevention, basic CPR (not certification), recreational water wellness and EMS ambulance education. The seminar is sponsored by Optimum, News 12, KJOY 98.3FM, WHLI 1100AM, 103.1 The Wolf, and Nassau County.
For more information, call (516) 797-4121 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com
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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.
