THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Hello June! Congratulations to all of the kids graduating and moving up this month, we hope that you have done your best all year and look forward to new goals. It is our honor to give out senior scholarships at the high school to encourage business skills within the community.
In May, we had the Bethpage Central Park Kiwanis Street Fair that was the biggest turnout of vendors in ages. Not only were there over 90 vendors with a DJ and live band, but also a few animal services like a Petting Zoo and the Nassau County SPCA for rescues which was sponsored by Village Tattoo. We also saw a lot of pets walking with their owners enjoying the nice day downtown and hope you too were able to attend the day’s activities. We’re sure it will be just as great this fall for the Harvest Fair on October 5th.
It’s looking very patriotic this month around town with dozens of US Flags along with the many community-sponsored pole banners that honor those serving our nation and our Bethpage Veterans who sacrificed and gave all. The annual Memorial Day Parade was also packed with gratitude and showed off our town’s red, white & blue spirit in their memory.
We also celebrated the grand reopening of the Bethpage American Legion Hall with an official ceremony hosted by Legislator Rose Walker. Just seeing veteran members gather and having the hall back in use for the community has been such a fantastic resource. Thank you, Commander Minogue, for the spectacular renovation.
Now, let’s enjoy the start of summer and all the great things we love like family barbeques, backyard pools and fun times. Have a wonderful Summer 2025!
Father’s Day celebrations began on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that a day honoring fathers became a national holiday. Since then, children have been trying to figure out how they can show their dads and other father figures in their lives just how much they are appreciated. Plenty of hugs and high fives are customary on Father’s Day, but gifts also get the spotlight on this holiday, which is held on the third Sunday in June each year. Each year families ponder what to get the man who seemingly has everything. These Father’s Day gifts are certain to please Dad this year.
Gaming gifts
The joy of gaming may not wane as Dad gets older. Once a gamer, always a
Gifts For Dad He’s Certain To Enjoy
gamer, and gifts that cater to Dad’s love of play can be winners. Pay attention to the release dates of games that Dad wants to play, and then make sure to grab them before they sell out. Peripherals that can enhance gaming also can be ideal gifts. These include Bluetooth headphones with microphone, controller charging stations, lightup keyboards, or a comfortable gaming chair.
Sports tickets
Experiential gifts continue to win rave reviews, as people increasingly are finding that adding more “stuff” to their lives does not equate to happiness. Rather, gifts that focus on experiences instead of material things can produce lasting memories. Father’s Day is a good time to grab tickets to an upcoming
sports game, whether it’s a high-profile Major League Baseball game at the stadium, a local event or overseas affair. June and July feature Formula 1 racing, the Worldwide International Cricket Matches, the MLB All Star Game, the Tour de France, Wimbledon, and more.
Cookout supplies
If Dad is the resident outdoor chef, adding to his assortment of cooking gear can be the perfect way to show love and affection on Father’s Day. While grills and smokers may get much of the attention, a tabletop pizza oven or outdoor griddle might be welcome additions as well.
Fishing gear
The warm weather of the summer presents plenty of opportunities for anglers to reel in trophy catches. Fathers who love
to fish can always use some additions to their tackle boxes, new reels and rods. Choose the correct items for the type of fish he typically goes for, as fishing for striped bass requires different gear that fishing for fluke.
Bethpage HS Sophomore Partap Sidhu Qualifies For 2025 International Science And Engineering Fair
Bethpage High School sophomore Partap Sidhu has achieved a remarkable milestone— he has qualified for the prestigious 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), the world’s largest international STEM research competition for high school students.
Partap will attend ISEF alongside his Science Research and AP Research teacher, Ms. Nicole Dulaney, and Bethpage’s Director of Science, Mr. Chris Pollatos.
Partap’s groundbreaking project, A Humanoid Upper Body for Automating Hazardous Tasks, tackles the urgent need for safer alternatives in dangerous work environments. As
industries in the United States increasingly turn to robotics for high-risk tasks, they face challenges such as high costs, limited adaptability, and inconsistent performance. Partap’s innovative solution addresses these barriers head-on.
Designed with affordability and performance in mind, his humanoid upper body integrates quasidirect drive actuators and machine learning. The system leverages ROS2, a meta-operating system for robots, to enable realtime trajectory planning and accurate position detection using an Intel Realsense 3D camera. Motor control is managed via a CAN-bus interface. A custom-trained Yolov10
machine learning model detects objects with an impressive 97% average accuracy. In testing, the robot successfully performed tasks in both laboratory and recycling settings.
Perhaps most impressively, Partap completed his humanoid prototype for just $897— a staggering contrast to commercially available humanoids, which can range from $30,000 to $2.5 million. This exceptional accomplishment not only demonstrates Partap’s technical prowess but also highlights his commitment to solving real-world problems through accessible innovation.
Bethpage High School sophomore Partap has qualified for the prestigious 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Pictured with Bethpage’s Director of Science, Mr. Chris Pollatos (left) and Science Research and AP Research teacher, Ms. Nicole Dulaney. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Father’s Day gifting is made easier with some shopping inspiration.
Katherine Miraval Ins Agcy Inc
Kathy M Miraval, Agent
326 Broadway
Bethpage, NY 11714
Bus: 516-433-2929
New York Blood Center Issues
Urgent Call For Donors
New York Blood Center (NYBC) has issued an urgent call for blood donations, especially from those with types O+ and O- blood. The current supply of O- blood, the universal blood type used in emergencies, has dropped to a critically low two-day level, and overall collections are nearly 20% below hospital demand. NYBC expects to collect only about 6,500 donations this week, falling approximately 1,600 donations short of what is needed to maintain a safe and stable blood supply in New York.
Spring travel, school breaks, and packed calendars have kept regular donors away—leaving donation levels dangerously low at a time when they should be ramping up. Each year, more than 56,000 traumas are reported in New York State, most occurring between May and September when accidents,
car crashes, and violent injuries rise dramatically. Blood transfusions are often needed to treat traumas, and a spike in traumatic accidents can cause a strain on the blood supply.
Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.
“Spring can be an exciting season with warmer weather on the way and fun holiday celebrations, but it’s also a critical time of year for the blood supply,” said Andrea Cefarelli,
Senior Vice President
at New York Blood Center. “As we start to build our inventory ahead of the trauma-heavy summer season, the need is more
urgent than ever. We’re calling on our community, especially type O donors, to roll up their sleeves and make a donation today. Your blood donation could be the lifeline that ensures our hospitals are ready to face any emergency that comes their way.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900.
To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-9332566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still make a lifesaving impact by supporting NYBC’s mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time.
Art Students Find Inspiration At Planting Fields Arboretum
On May 2, students from Ms. Courtney Young’s Drawing and Painting class in Bethpage High School took their studies outdoors with a visit to Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay. Surrounded by blooming spring
flowers and sweeping landscapes, the students immersed themselves in the environment to practice plein air painting - a technique they had been studying in class. During the trip, students were tasked with creating
small observational studies of plants, flowers or trees, with the option to expand their focus to broader landscape scenes. Painting and drawing outdoors allowed them to engage all their senses, leading to a richer, more
accurate representation of color and value than what is typically achieved by working from photographs. With sketchbooks and paint sets in hand, the students had the freedom to explore the entirety of
the historic Gold Coast estate. After a productive morning of artmaking, they gathered for a picnic lunch, enjoying the sunshine and serene beauty of one of Long Island’s most stunning public gardens.
It was a memorable afternoon of creativity and connection with nature - an inspiring day that brought classroom learning to life.
Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Charles Campagne School Honors Local Heroes With First Responders And Law Enforcement Parade
Charles Campagne School was filled with heartfelt appreciation on May 2, as students, staff and families came together for a First Responders and Law Enforcement Parade.
Organized by the PTA and the student council, the event served as a spirited tribute to the courageous Bethpage community
members who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting others.
The celebration began with students gathering outside the school, proudly holding handmade signs adorned with heartfelt messages and colorful drawings. These signs were created in honor of the first responders in attendance
- many of whom were parents or relatives of CCS students and staff.
The Charles Campagne School band kicked off the festivities with a performance, setting an energetic and celebratory tone. Students lined the school driveway, cheering as members of various local fire departments,
The celebration began with students gathering outside the school, proudly holding handmade signs adorned with heartfelt messages and colorful drawings. Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
police departments and EMTs paraded by with their CCS family members.
Adding a personal touch to the event was Principal Julianne Inghilterra, who emceed the morning’s festivities.
As the daughter of a retired FDNY lieutenant and the sister of an NYPD officer, Principal Inghilterra spoke
with heartfelt appreciation for the sacrifices made by first responders and the importance of honoring their service.
Following the parade, the school hosted a bagel breakfast for all participating first responders - a small token of thanks for their continued dedication to
keeping the community safe.
In addition to the celebration, the school raised over $600 for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization that supports first responders and military service members and their families.
The school raised over $600 for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization that supports first responders and military service members and their families.
Students lined the school driveway, cheering as members of various local fire departments, police departments and EMTs paraded by with their CCS family members. Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Father’s Day is a celebration of dads near and far. Falling on the third Sunday of June each year, Father’s Day presents an opportunity for families to come together and put the spotlight on fathers who work tirelessly for their children and provide them with love and support. Father’s Day also is a chance to honor the men who serve as father figures or play special roles in people’s lives. It’s easy for families to fall into a routine when it comes to celebrating Father’s Day. Certainly dinner and giftgiving is traditional, but there are additional ways to provide Dad with the day he deserves. Explore these creative options.
Set up a scavenger hunt Drag out the suspense of Dad getting his Father’s Day gift by hiding it and requiring him to go through a series of
Celebrate Father’s Day In Unique Ways
clues to find it. When writing up the clue cards, spouses and children can reference particularly happy moments or things around the house that are representative of Dad’s love. For example, a clue may read, “Here’s where we like to snuggle together to watch our favorite show.”
Take it outdoors
June weather tends to be pleasant, and that means Father’s Day celebrations can be held outside. Everyone can select a spot that Dad loves to visit, whether it’s a hiking trail or a local park, and then plan activities around the chosen location.
Go on an adventure Father’s Day can be spent engaging in something the family has never tried before that may be exciting for Dad. Maybe he’s always wanted to go off-roading on quads or try his skills
at hatchet-throwing? The family can get together and choose an activity Dad will find engaging and that everyone can enjoy.
Make it a beach day Dad might just want a break from the hectic pace of life on Father’s Day. This is the perfect opportunity to head oceanside. For
those who don’t live by the coast, a river or lakefront spot can be an ideal alternative. Frequently these are touristy areas, so it could be relatively
Get Summer Road Trip Ready
Road trips can present a perfect escape any time of the year, but they’re especially popular during the summer when people have time off from school and work. According to a 2024 summer travel survey from The Vacationer, 82
percent of Americans were planning to travel this year, and driving is the most popular method of getting around. Seventyfive percent of those in the U.S. intend to take at least one road trip this summer. The 2024 Blue Cross Travel
Study revealed that more Canadians are optimistic about travel and are planning more trips this year.
Perhaps road trips are so popular because they don’t require booking tickets,
complicated transportation to and from airports and rigid itineraries. Many road trips can be spur of the moment, explore-as-yougo excursions. But it still pays to prepare a bit for an upcoming road trip. These guidelines can get you started.
• Create a generalized itinerary. While it may be tempting to fill up the gas tank and see where the ride takes you, an itinerary will ensure that you know distances between stops so that you will not get burnt out by driving. Use mapping apps to research the trip before departure and plot out points of interest and where you will rest, fuel up (both body and vehicle) and stay overnight.
• Slow is pro. A large part of the road trip is about the ride itself. Resist the temptation to speed and rush through various towns. Get out
and stretch your legs as much as possible and take advantage of roadside attractions, tourist traps, rest stops, restaurants, and so much more.
• Find your inspiration to travel. Check out travel blogs, online videos and magazines or get recommendations from friends and family regarding spots of interest. Maybe you’ve always dreamed about seeing the California Redwoods but you live on the East Coast? It may take several days, but an epic road trip adventure can get you to your destination no matter how far away it might be.
• Emphasize fuel efficiency. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses on a road trip. Before setting out on the trip, ensure that the vehicle is inspected and road-ready. This means that oil and fluids have been changed
easy to find an eatery where everyone can make a reservation for lunch or dinner after enjoying a relaxing day with waves lapping the shore.
and the tires are in good shape (with a spare on hand). While driving, stick to the speed limit and do not over-pack the vehicle, as more weight leads to greater fuel consumption.
• Researcheverythingabout your destination(s). Who can forget the deep disappointment when the Griswold family reaches Wally World, billed as “America’s Favorite Family Fun Park,” after a cross-country trip from Chicago only to discover it is closed for the next two weeks for repairs? Before such mishaps happen to you, make sure you know the hours of places you plan to visit, as well as any scheduling changes that may be happening while you’re traveling.
These are just a few tips for having a road trip to remember this summer.
2025 Relay For Life Cancer Walk/Events Scheduled On Long Island
Relay For Life is more than a walk, it's a community consisting of survivors, caregivers, thrivers, volunteers, teams, local businesses, and community organizations all to fund the mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. At Relay For Life, we gather around tracks and local parks and malls to walk together to fight back against cancer and show support to survivors. We host VIP complimentary Survivor Celebrations, enjoy music from DJs and local bands, dance groups, and students. As the sun sets, we illuminate our tracks and paths with luminaria bags in honor, memory, and support of all those touched by cancer. Overall, in 2025, there will be an estimated 2,041,910 new cancer diagnoses in the U.S. (5,600 each day) and 618,120 cancer deaths.
Relay For Life has raised more than $6.9 billion to support these efforts since 1985 (and on our way to $7B in 2025), and $69 million was raised in 2023;
Relay for Life events on Long Island hope to add to that figure this year.
Relay For Life Smithtown – June 7, 2025; Smithtown High School West; 5 p.m.5 a.m. RelayForLife.org/ SmithtownNY
Relay For Life Baldwin – June 7, 2025; Baldwin Park in Baldwin at 2 p.m.; relayforlife/baldwinny
Relay For Life Northport – June 7, 2025; Northport High School; 5 p.m.–5 a.m. relayforlife.org/northportny
Relay For Life of Plainview/ Old Bethpage – June 14, 2025; Plainview Old Bethpage Middle School, 4 p.m.;relayforlife.org/ pobnyobny
40 Years Of Relay For Life
The impact Relay For Life has made on had on the American Cancer Society’s mission, both locally and globally, is astounding. For 40 years, Relayers have gathered to celebrate their
communities: volunteers who dedicate themselves to the mission, survivors, caregivers, and their friends and families. During this time of celebration, we also remember those we’ve lost and collectively fight back by fundraising to end cancer as we know it for everyone.
About The American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is a leading cancerfighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it for everyone. For more than 110 years, we have been improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. To learn more, visit cancer.org or call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Connect with us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Honoring 90 Years Of Bethpage State Park
In a joyful tribute to one of Long Island’s most treasured landmarks, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads presented a resolution, passed unanimously by the NYS Senate, to Bethpage State Park Director Scott Matson, commemorating the park’s 90th anniversary. Joined by Chip Gorman, Long Island Regional Director of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, the celebration highlighted the park’s rich history and enduring legacy. Senator Rhoads praised the park as a vital part of Long Island’s heritage and expressed deep gratitude for the dedication of those who preserve its beauty for future generations.
Carole Ann Catapano
Associate Broker
Teri Catapano Black
What Is The Summer Solstice And What’s Notable About This Day?
June is a month to look forward to for a number of reasons. June is home to Father’s Day; the end of the school year in many locales; vacations often take place in June; and the summer solstice occurs for people living in the northern hemisphere. The National Weather Service says the summer solstice occurs when the Earth’s tilt toward the sun is at a maximum. When this occurs, the sun appears at its highest elevation, or when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer at 23.5 degrees latitude north. The sun’s noontime position changes very little for several days before and after the solstice. With this positioning of the sun, people enjoy the longest day of the year in terms of daylight hours.
• The summer solstice occurs when one of the Earth’s poles is tilted toward the sun at its most extreme angle.
• Per each hemisphere, solstices occur twice a year: the winter and the summer solstice.
• Various cultures around the world celebrate the summer solstice with traditions, holidays and festivals.
• The summer solstice marks the official start of astronomical summer.
• The world “solstice” is derived from Latin and means “sun standing still.”
In 2025, the summer solstice occurs on June 20 at 1:41 p.m. EDT. Those in the southern hemisphere will have to wait until December 21 at 4:21 a.m. EST for their summer solstice. In celebration of the solstice, explore these facts about this remarkable day.
• Depending on one’s latitude, the length of daylight a person can enjoy on the solstice varies. At the equator, the time from sunrise to sunset is roughly 12 hours. At temperate or mid-northern latitudes, the length of daylight lasts about 15 hours, says Space.com.
• Solstices do not land on the same calendar day every year because the astronomical year is 365.25 days long. So the solstices shift a day or two each year, but generally fall within the same three days. In the northern hemisphere, those days are June 20, 21 or 22 for the summer solstice.
• No one is quite sure who discovered that the solstices occur. According to Owen Gingerich, Professor Emeritus of Astronomy and History of Science at Harvard
University, “[There is] no writing to record this great discovery.”
• The summer solstice often is when the golf season heats up. Many clubs take advantage of the longer days during the week the solstice takes place to host sunrise to sunset
golf tournaments.
• Although the summer solstice is the longest day of the year in terms of daylight hours, typically it is not the hottest. It will take some time for the Earth to heat up with a greater tilt toward the sun. Hotter days arrive
Summertime Skin Protection Strategies
Summer is a season to soak up some sun and enjoy the generally more laid back atmosphere that’s become synonymous with the months of June through August. Though no one wants to dampen the summer fun, it’s important to note that the season should not be entirely carefree. In fact, emphasizing skin protection is vital to ensuring the season is both fun and safe.
• Wear sunscreen every day. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery urges individuals to wear sunscreen every day in the summer. No two people are the same, and that’s evident in the various skin types. People with fair skin may already know from experience that they need to apply sunscreen in the summer. But ASDS notes even people with naturally darker skin that tends to
tan instead of burn need to wear sunscreen every day as well. The ASDS recommends applying roughly one ounce of sunscreen two to three times each day in summer. Sunscreen should have a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. It’s possible to get sunburn even in cooler climates or on cloudy days when time in direct sunlight is minimal. So the sunscreen rule can apply year-round, but is especially important in summer when people tend to spend more time outdoors than during other times of year.
• Opt for protective clothing. The ASDS notes that unbleached cotton, tightly woven T-shirts or shorts, and widebrimmed hats provide excellent protection against the sun. Many manufacturers now offer high-SPF clothing that
absorbs UV rays. Pairing such clothing with daily applications of sunscreen can be a great way to protect skin against summer sun.
• Pay attention to your skin. Routine skin examinations in summertime can uncover warning signs of skin cancer. For example, the ASDS notes that discoloration, a changing mile or a rough red patch of skin are early warning signs of skin cancer. Contact a dermatologic surgeon immediately if any of these signs are detected.
• Avoid sunbathing to reduce sunburn risk. The ASDS notes the only way to prevent exposure to potentially harmful sunburn is to stay in the shade. Though many consider a little color in summertime harmless, the reality is that skin cancer develops over time and sunburn is dangerous. Each sunburn a person gets increases his or her risk of developing skin cancer, so even a mild sunburn
at the end of July and last into August.
The summer solstice is a time for celebration. The solstice brings more daylight and the official start of summer and offers plenty of reasons to get outside and enjoy the warm weather.
that disappears in a day or two can have a longterm and potentially deadly impact.
Fun in the summer sun is part of what makes the season so special. But it’s imperative that people take steps to protect their skin from sun damage when enjoying warm summer days in the great outdoors.
Glen Head, NY (May 15, 2025) - Michele Rebetti, M.A., president of Crestcom KEY Alliance, will
taking place at Glen Head Country Club on Monday, June 2. The ACLD Foundation raises funds to support ACLD programs and services for people with special needs.
Crestcom KEY Alliance helps companies and not-for-pro ts improve their productivity and pro tability by teaching managers the necessary skills to better concentrate on the bottom-line and enhance their organizations’ ability to compete. Rebetti celebrated 10 years as a small-business owner in 2024, and has more than 20 years of experience, specializing in management and leadership development.
Rebetti is a longtime supporter of ACLD, introduced to the agency through the Long Island Elite network in 2018. She has continued to support the agency in a variety of ways, from serving on the Limitless Luncheon and Great Summer Kick-Off event committees, and she has also sponsored multiple events. Rebetti provides management and leadership training to ACLD’s staff and has fully embraced the agency’s mission.
The full day and evening golf event includes a lavish buffet breakfast, a day on the links including different competitions, followed by cocktails and dinner. Presentations and speeches will be made, and guests can participate in the Goods & Services and Silent Auctions. Foursomes: $2,200. Individual Golfers: $550. Dinner and Cocktails: $250.
Major sponsors for this event include Presenting Sponsor Pilot | RB. Ace Sponsor Alliance Brokerage Corp. Eagle Sponsor Community Care Rx. Beverage Cart Sponsor Irwin Siegel Agency. Golf Ball Sponsor Rosenthal Law, LLC. Birdie Sponsors A&C Pest Management; ADP; Alliant Employee Bene ts; Fusion Architecture, PLLC./Performance Contracting of Long Island; Good Samaritan University Hospital; Haystack Financial Planning; Knockout Pest Control, Inc.; M&T Bank; Merritt Environmental Consulting Corp.; Rocco’s Garage; Sandbar Builders; Valley Bank; The Wohl Family. Cigar Sponsor Crestcom KEY Alliance. $25,000 Hole-in-One Sponsor Gutterman’s Inc. Hole-in-One Car Sponsor Atlantic Automall of West Islip. Community Partnership Sponsor Delta Air Lines. Breakfast Sponsors Enterprise Fleet Management; GTS Builders Supply, Inc.; Realty Resource Capital Corp.; Spear Physical Therapy; Total Fire Protection.
For more information, please visit www.ACLDGolf.org or call the ACLD Foundation at 516-822-0028, 178.
About the ACLD Foundation: Incorporated in 2016, the ACLD Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization established to support and raise funds for the exclusive bene t of Adults and Children with Learning and Developmental Disabilities, Inc. (ACLD).
About Adults and Children with Learning and Developmental Disabilities, Inc. (ACLD): Founded in 1957, ACLD is a 501(c)(3), not-for-pro t agency whose mission is to provide opportunities to more than 1,300 children and adults with autism, learning, and developmental disabilities to pursue enviable lives, promote independence and foster supportive relationships within the community. ACLD employs 1,300 people and operates more than 100 different program sites including community residences and apartment programs across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Services include early childhood services, day habilitation, residential alternatives, vocational training and job placement, respite, family support services, and occupational, speech and physical therapies. For more information, visit www.acld.org.
Michele Rebetti, M.A., President of Crestcom KEY Alliance, will be honored on June 2, 2025 at the ACLD Foundation Annual Golf Outing.
SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE FROM BETHPAGE WATER DISTRICT
For over a century, the Bethpage Water District has served our community with the same dedication we uphold today — to deliver an uninterrupted supply of quality drinking water to our residents.
As the population of our once small town grew, so did the District’s footprint. Our water now comes from eight wells on ve pumping sites. We service over 8,500 accounts and maintain over 107 miles of watermain. And we perform all this work with a staff of only 12 people.
We perform a job that’s complex and often full of challenges. Yet we meet those challenges head-on, without hesitancy. That’s what makes the Bethpage Water District one of the most regarded water suppliers in the region. With an eye on the future, we’re proactive in our approach to water treatment and the technology and science necessary to ght emerging contaminants. In a world where the state and national standards change year to year, we adapt and evolve and continue to be ahead of what comes next.
Just recently we installed advanced oxidation process (AOP) treatment at Plant No. 1 for the removal of 1,4-dioxane. We now have the nation’s most sophisticated treatment at each of our well and plant sites. Over the past two decades we have made signi cant investments to protect our water supply while holding polluters accountable for their previous actions.
Our water continually meets or exceeds all local, state and federal standards, and we will continue to deliver quality drinking water for generations to come.
What we do today has an impact on tomorrow.
We appreciate our community support, and as we always say…
“Together…We’re Bethpage Strong”
Enjoy Summer!
— Michael J. Boufis, Superintendent
Make A Father’s Day Meal Dad
Can Savor
Families celebrate Dad in unique ways on Father’s Day. Gifts are customary, but so is a delicious meal Dad will love. Many dads will appreciate a meal that goes above and beyond the ordinary, preferably something that is hearty and delicious. These “PecanStuffed Pork Chops” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) are a great dish to serve family style when everyone gathers around the table for Father’s Day.
Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops
Serves 7-8
1 large rack of pork chops, bones in
4 tablespoons butter
1⁄2 yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 1⁄2 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups panko bread crumbs
2 cups
2 cups roasted pecans, chopped
More kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Father’s Day Around The World
Directions:
Clean the rack of pork well and cut in between the bones to get thick individual pork chops. Cut a large slit down the back side of each chop and insert the tip of a knife 2 to 3 inches inside the chop to create a pocket for the stuffing. Do not poke completely through the pork or the stuffing will not stay in. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery and garlic until the onion has slightly softened. Add the chicken stock, salt and cayenne and bring to a light simmer. Pour the contents into a mixing bowl and add the panko bread crumbs and pecans. Mix together and let cool to room temperature. Stuff as much of the mixture into each pork chop as will fit (overstuffing is okay, too). Sprinkle both sides of each chop with salt and pepper to taste, then roast in a preheated 400 F oven for 12 minutes. Turn the chops over once and roast an additional 15 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Cook to medium, or 135 to 140 F.
Many countries around the world celebrate Father’s Day, but not all of them do so in June. The most common date for Father’s Day celebrations is the third Sunday of June, when the U.S. and Canada celebrate the holiday. In 2025, that day will be June 15th. Many European countries with sizable Catholic populations, such as Spain, Italy and Portugal, celebrate Father’s Day on March 19th, which is known as St. Joseph’s Day on the Catholic liturgical calendar. St. Joseph was the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus Christ, so he is widely recognized as the patron saint of fathers.
In Scandinavian countries, Father’s Day is the second Sunday in November, which many believe to be an attempt to boost the economy during a month when retail businesses are not particularly busy. In Germany, Father’s Day is tied to Ascension Day, which comes on the fortieth day of Easter. Australia and New Zealand celebrate dads on the first Sunday of September, while Brazil celebrates Father’s Day on the second Sunday of August. No matter when Father’s Day falls, the holiday marks a great time to show dads just how special and loved they are.
Charred Green Beans with Lemon Verbena Pesto
Serves 2 to 4
Green Beans
1 1⁄2 pounds slender green beans
2 teaspoons olive oil
Lemon Verbena Pesto
1 cup fresh lemon verbena leaves (substitute fresh lemon balm leaves)
2 garlic cloves
1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1⁄4 cup pine nuts or English walnuts
1⁄2 cup olive oil
Fine kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fire Up The Grill For Fresh Veggies
Vegetables are more versatile than many people may know. Steaming or sautéing vegetables might be among the most popular ways to cook veggies, but grillmasters know that it’s not just main dishes that taste great when cooked over an open flame. As the following recipe for “Charred Green Beans with Lemon Verbena Pesto” from Karen Adler and Judith Fertig’s “The Gardener & The Grill” (Running Press) can attest, grilled vegetables make for simple yet satisfying side dishes.
Directions:
Prepare a hot fire in your grill.
Toss the beans with olive oil and place in a perforated grill basket or wok set on a baking sheet.
For the Lemon Verbena Pesto, combine the lemon verbena, garlic, cheese, and nuts in a food processor and pulse to puree. Slowly add the olive oil with the processor running until the mixture thickens and emulsifies, about 1 minute. Season to taste with salt and pepper. The pesto will keep in the refrigerator for 7 to 10 days, or it may be frozen for up to 3 months.
Place the grill wok or basket directly over the fire and stir-grill, tossing the beans with wooden paddles or grill spatulas until crisp-tender, about 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer the grilled beans to a large bowl and toss with about 1⁄4 cup of the Lemon Verbena Pesto or to taste.
Did You Know?
Grilling is serious business in the hearts and minds of millions of people, which is perhaps the reason why individuals tend to be so devoted to their preferred method of cooking foods over an open flame. That devotion extends to the type of grill cooks use, which typically comes down to a choice between gas grills that utilize propane and charcoal grills that burn charcoal. Though the debate over which type of grill is better will likely never end, charcoal devotees insist that science is on their side. Grilling with charcoal leads to the release of an aroma compound known as guaiacol. Guaiacol is produced during the breakdown of lignin, a resin that BarbecueBros.com notes holds strands of cellulose together to form wood. As lignin breaks down, guaiacol is released, providing foods cooked over charcoal with a uniquely smoky, baconlike flavor. That unique flavor is absent from foods cooked on a gas grill, which charcoal grill enthusiasts point to as proof that their preferred method to grill meat is superior to other means.
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(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 Course Prix Fixe Dinner Special
(Monday - ursday)
Soup or Salad (Tossed or Caesar)
ENTRÉE: Pasta, Chicken, Veal, Filet of Sole or Eggplant, served with Vegetable of the Day & Cheesecake or Cannoli
This Crisp Salad Is Perfect For Warm Nights
Delicious and light, there’s not much fuss that goes into preparing salad, and making one typically does not require turning on the oven, which is ideal when the weather is steamy. With already cooked chicken and a dressing that can be made up to one day ahead, all a person has to do is assemble this “Chicken Salad Niçoise.” Suggested pairings include a chilled soup, like Gazpacho, crusty bread, and a light dessert of fresh fruit topped with vanilla yogurt. Try this recipe, courtesy of “125 Best Chicken Recipes” (Robert
by
Chicken Salad Niçoise
Serves 6
Garlic dressing:
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1⁄4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups cooked green beans, cut into 2-inch lengths
6 small new potatoes, cooked and sliced
1 small red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 cups sliced celery
3⁄4 cup black olives
Romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
3 hard-cooked eggs, quartered
4 tomatoes, cut into wedges
Directions:
1. Garlic dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, mustard and lemon juice. Gradually whisk in oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, beans, potatoes, red pepper, onion, celery, and olives.
3. Pour dressing over chicken mixture and gently toss to coat. Line a shallow salad bowl with lettuce and spoon salad on top. Garnish with eggs and tomatoes.
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Rose Murray
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.
Owner/Operator - Nancy J. White
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.
Manager - William D. Parsons
Funeral Directors - Stephen J. Mahoney, William J. Dowling & Jayme R. Elia
Bethpage Union Free School District Named One Of The Best Communities For Music Education For The Fifth Year In A Row
For the fifth consecutive year, the Bethpage Union Free School District has been recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by The NAMM Foundation, a prestigious national honor that celebrates school districts for their outstanding support of music education.
Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to providing music access and education to all students. To earn this designation, Bethpage completed a comprehensive survey that examined key areas including funding, graduation requirements, participation in music classes, instructional time, staffing, facilities and support for music programs and community music-making.
The NAMM Foundation’s recognition is not just a celebration of musical excellence—it also helps raise awareness about the importance of music education in a well-rounded curriculum. The Foundation, which is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, works to eliminate barriers to musicmaking and create more equitable opportunities for all students to engage in the arts.
Bethpage’s robust music program begins in the elementary grades and continues through high school, offering students a variety of opportunities to participate in band, orchestra, chorus and specialized ensembles. Students regularly perform in district concerts, community events and regional competitions, with many being selected for AllCounty and All-State honors.
Congratulations to the entire Bethpage community on this well-deserved recognition!
Bethpage Union Free School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District
Girl Scouts Of Nassau County Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of Operation Cookie By Delivering Almost 65,000 Packages Of Girl Scout Cookies To Military Troops And Community Heroes
Girl Scouts of Nassau County (GSNC), in partnership with DHL Express, shipped nearly 65,000 care packages of Girl Scout Cookies® to U.S. military personnel stationed both abroad and on Long Island, as well as local first responders. This was made possible through the generous acts of community members who went above and beyond to purchase additional cookies through the GSNC’s 20th annual Operation Cookie/ Hometown Heroes program.
Girl Scouts from across Nassau County teamed up with local officials and dedicated volunteers to help provide a warm send off a portion of the care packages, which were loaded into DHL’s truck to be shipped around the globe. The program serves as a heartfelt thank you to U.S. service members and vital community workers like doctors, nurses, police officers, EMTs, and firefighters, offering them
a comforting reminder of home.
“Operation Cookie is more than a sweet treat. It’s a powerful way for Girl Scouts to learn about gratitude, service and making a difference in the lives of others. Every cookie represents a heartfelt ‘thank you’ from our Girl Scouts and the community to the brave individuals protecting our freedom,” said Rande Bynum, CEO of GSNC. “We’d like to once again send our utmost appreciation and thanks to DHL Express and to all who have contributed Operation Cookie over the last 20 years. This incredible partnership has allowed us to send over 1.25 million packages of Girl Scout Cookies to service members around the globe.
Since being launched in 2005 in partnership with DHL Express, the Operation Cookie/Hometown Heroes program has exceeded its growing support each year with over 1,250,000
packages delivered to U.S. military personnel and local first responders, while also allowing Girl Scouts to understand the power and importance of giving back to those who serve and provide for them. These cookies have reached servicemen and women all around the world, including locations such as Afghanistan, Bahrain, Djibouti, Iraq, Kuwait, Japan, Germany, Poland, and so many more military bases across the map. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, U.S. Marines base in Garden City, and Jones Beach Coast Guard stations are all local locations who have also received deliveries. (if you’d like, please add:
The Hometown Heroes program assists these efforts by recognizing the important roles of local essential workers and first responders, with this year’s distribution including hospitals, police departments, and a blood
bank among the recipients of Girl Scout Cookies®.
“It’s been an honor to support Operation Cookie over the past two decades, using our global shipping network to deliver meaningful gifts of appreciation to those who serve others,” said Pawel Zagaja, Senior Director of JFK Gateway, DHL Express.
“At DHL, our mission is to connect people and improve lives—and this initiative helps us do exactly that by honoring the sacrifices made by our military and first responders and reminding them that they hold a special place in our hearts.”
U.S. Military service members and local first responders will be treated to classic Girl Scout Cookie flavors when receiving their shipments, including Thin Mints, Trefoils, and Tagalongs among the selection. For more details about Operation Cookie and Hometown Heroes, please visit www.gsnc.org.
CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County Rande Bynum and Girl Scouts speaking at Operation Cookie’s 20th Anniversary
Nassau County Police Department officer with Girl Scout cookies
Girl Scouts and CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County Rande Bynum passing boxes of Girl Scout cookies to pack into the DHL Express truck
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4280 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage
Central Boulevard Students Give Back On Thoughtful Thursday
Central Boulevard Elementary School continued its “Thoughtful Thursday” initiative this month with a heartwarming activity centered on animal rescue awareness. Students across all grade levels learned about the importance of adopting animals from rescue shelters rather than buying them from pet stores.
To support this lesson, students created handmade adoption certificates to be donated to local animal rescues. Younger students colored and decorated predesigned certificates, while older students had the option to personalize or illustrate their own. The project not only encouraged creativity but also reinforced the importance of compassion and community service.
Thoughtful Thursday takes place on the third Thursday of each month and is a cornerstone of Central Boulevard School’s commitment to character education. Each month
features a new theme that inspires students and staff to spread kindness and give back, both within the school and throughout the larger community. Past projects have included making Valentine’s Day cards for veterans and crafting festive
New Year’s placemats for local senior citizens.
On these special days, the school is awash in color as students and staff proudly wear shirts bearing the “Thoughtful Thursday” slogan - a visible sign of their shared mission to make a
difference.
Through this monthly tradition, Central Boulevard School continues to foster empathy, generosity, and community spirit in its students—one thoughtful act at a time.
