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THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Welcome to the merry month of May 2026! This month brings a few cherished occasions to Bethpage that mean a lot to our community such as Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, the Bethpage Street Fair and the high school senior awards for scholarships with four from our chamber organization.

We get to honor the dedication and love of all the mothers and caregivers who take on that role to enrich our lives on May 10th –whether through family, friendship or community connections. Our local merchants offer several ways to show affection with ﬂowers, cards, parcels shipped, gift certificates and brunch venues to celebrate Mom. Then it’s time for the Bethpage Street Fair on May 17th with the Bethpage Central Park Kiwanis bi-annual fundraiser that has shoppers who come from all over for a day of food & fun featuring music on the showmobile with 107 North and Wired Up. Don’t miss the great downtown event!

Memorial Day is on May 25th, a day that gives us the chance to reﬂect on the sacrifices made by those who served our country, and to come together for the annual Bethpage remembrance ceremony with our community sponsored veteran banners installed around town and a modest parade to honor them.

The first Bethpage Independence Day Parade is set for July 3rd with the Bethpage School District, Bethpage Fire Department, Knights of Central Park, American Legion and the VFW with more details to come in June, be sure to get your Red White & Blue ready for the America 250th celebration.

Wishing everyone a meaningful month filled with appreciation, remembrance and togetherness that all helps keep Bethpage Strong!

Mother’s Day Sunday May 10th

Memorial Day Monday May 25th

Learn The Meanings Behind Popular Mother’s Day Flowers

Mother’s Day is a time to express love and appreciation for mothers, sentiments that are often expressed with gifts. Flowers are a popular present to bestow on Mother’s Day, as they can brighten a room and bring a sweet aroma to any household.

While any flowers may ultimately suffice on Mother’s Day, gift givers may want to select flowers for Mom that convey specific messages. The language of flowers has been recognized for centuries. Though perhaps not as heralded as it once was, flower symbolism persists to this day. Here’s a look at some of the meanings behind certain types of flowers to help guide Mother’s Day gifting.

• Amaryllis: These plants start as bulbs and are naturally springblooming flowers. The name comes

Mother’s Day 2026 will be celebrated across the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries on Sunday, May 10. Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, and has been since 1914, when President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation establishing the day as a national holiday.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate mothers, grandmothers, and stepmothers, including with gifts and celebrations. However, gift givers also may want to trade wrapped presents for a shared experience. Consider day trips or overnight excursions as options for treating Mom to something special. Here are some day trips that can make lasting memories.

• Wine country: For moms who love wine, a visit to a nearby vineyard is an elegant way to celebrate. However, there’s also the option to travel to historically popular

from the Greek word “amarysso,” which means “to sparkle,” and they symbolize pride.

• Aster: These daisy-like flowers are delicatelooking perennials. Asters make great gifts because they symbolize love and daintiness.

• Begonia: There are more than 2,000 types of begonias, and the flower symbolizes deep thoughts. Begonias were made famous by French horticulturist Michel Bégon, who thought the blooms looked like beautiful girls.

• Bleeding heart: These flowers are red and pink blossoms that look like the perfect heart shape with a teardrop at the bottom. They’re beautiful and symbolic of love and affection.

• Buttercup: These are associated with

youthfulness and cheerfulness and can call to mind childhood days spent picking buttercups and holding them under chins to reveal that you like butter. The flower is known for its beauty and innocent charm.

• Camellia (white): White camellias stand for purity and innocence, but they also symbolize admiration and respect. Camellias make beautiful additions to any bouquet.

• Daisy: Daisies are happy-looking flowers, and according to Norse mythology they represent motherhood and children.

• Delphinium: Delphiniums come in pink, white and blue varieties and embody youth and renewal. They’re a good pick if you want to convey a continued or renewed affection

for a person.

• Tulip: Tulips with an orange hue are thought to represent understanding and appreciation. They can express appreciation for Mom or another special person. Yellow tulips symbolize happiness, while pink tulips are symbolic of love. Red blooms should be reserved for sweethearts. Various flowers symbolize feelings people want to express to their mothers, grandmothers and other special women on Mother’s Day.

Day Trips Make Mother’s Day Special

and well-regarded wine regions, such as Napa Valley, Sonoma County or Willamette Valley in the western United States. An even more epic adventure can be a trip to key regions in Europe like Bordeaux, France, Tuscany, Italy, or Rioja, Spain.

• Historic sites: Moms who are history buffs can travel to areas of the country that are known for their historical significance. Boston, with its hop-on-hop-off trolley tours, provides an up-close look at sites that shaped the American Revolution. Williamsburg, Virginia, and nearby Jamestown also offer a historical touch. Colonial Williamsburg is a livinghistory museum where actors in period costume depict daily Colonial life. At Jamestown, walk in the steps of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas and explore a unique locale in American history.

• Peace in nature: Some mothers find that nature is their happy place. A garden tour or a visit to the nearest botanical garden is a great choice. Many beautiful flowers peak in early May, including late tulips, lilacs and azaleas. Roses

also may start budding around this time. Butchart Gardens in Canada is a 55-acre National Historic Site known for its Sunken Garden, and can be a lovely spot to tour. Another option is the Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, which

boasts formal gardens, meadows and large indoor conservatories.

• Coastal escape: When treating Mom to some “vitamin sea,” a day trip to the coast cannot be beat. A walk on the sand certainly can be a winning

choice, but activities like a Mother’s Day brunch cruise on a riverboat or ferry can elevate the excursion. Letting mom experience different day trips can be a special way to set this Mother’s Day apart.

Prom is much more than a dance. It is a rite of passage and a memorable component of the high school experience. The few hours spent dancing and socializing at a catering hall or other venue will be the centerpiece of prom night, but often there is more to the festivities. Increasingly, students incorporate preprom events and after-prom adventures, during which additional memories are made.

Getting ready

Many young women enjoy prepping for the prom together. This presents a chance to work on each others’ hair and makeup, and ensure that the finishing touches are all set. Depending on the school, some students may have an early dismissal on the schedule so prom-goers have ample time to get ready. It’s possible to meet at a spa, salon or someone’s

Prom Expands Beyond The Dance

house to put together the perfect prom aesthetic. This is a busy day, so it’s always a good idea to pre-book prom treatments well in advance to ensure that beauty professionals will be free and able to accommodate groups.

Pre-prom gathering

Pre-prom get-togethers are all about looking good before the dancing (and sweating) occurs. This is the time when friends gather to take photos with their closest group of besties. Typically, one student who has a home with a scenic backyard hosts the pre-prom mixer. Light snacks, photo opportunities with balloons and backdrops are the norm. It can be a nice touch to have a parents’ station with some snacks and beverages so that parents can mingle and grab their own photos as well. The pre-prom gathering also is a way to facilitate easy transport to the prom.

Groups can coordinate vans, party buses or limos to stop at this centralized location.

Prom after-party

Once the last song is played and the lights come on at the prom venue, it may seem like the night is done. But this is not quite the case for those who want the fun to continue. After-prom events tend to fall into two distinct camps: the schoolsanctioned option and the private party.

The school event may feature things like inflatables, food, casino-type games, and more music. Some are lock-in events where students stay until morning, helping to keep people off the road in the wee hours.

Private after-parties run the gamut of classic house parties to diner hangouts to destination trips. In many regions of the country, it is a tradition to head to a beach house, a cabin or a hotel in

a hot spot for the remainder of the prom evening and potentially the weekend. Students and parents must carefully weigh the pros and cons of these types of parties, and make every endeavor to keep participants safe. Some hotels will not allow bookings to underage

patrons, so that also is a consideration. Families may want to establish pacts that hold students to certain behavior standards, such as avoiding alcohol, drugs and intimate encounters at prom after-parties. The after-party requires a level of responsibility and trust on

Prom Night Prep Tips For Parents Helping Teens

Prom is a teenage rite of passage. Prom night provides one more exciting adventure in a school experience that likely started with preschool jitters and will soon culminate with graduates receiving their high school diplomas.

Prom night planning

reaches a fever pitch a few weeks before the big event. A significant amount of time and money are involved in making prom a night to remember. While teens may be focused on fashion and fun, parents may be wondering what they can do to steer their

sons and daughters in the right direction. Here are some pointers to consider as families prepare for prom.

Set a budget

The pandemic has affected supply chains and has contributed to increased prices on all

types of consumer goods, so you may find that prom attire and accessories will cost more this year. Figure out what you can afford to contribute to the prom, and ask your teenager to pitch in. If your child is footing some of the bill, there may be a greater willingness to

corral spending. One way to save money is to rent a gown/tuxedo rather than purchasing one outright.

Be a parent first, friend second

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the months of April through June are some of the most dangerous times of year for teens, particularly regarding alcohol-related traffic accidents. Many teens are looking at prom night as an opportunity to let loose, and that may include alcohol consumption or drug use. Parents must not condone underage drinking when hosting teens at home or when hosting an after-party at a hotel or restaurant where alcohol will be served. Not only is it irresponsible, it is illegal to give alcohol to anyone who is under 21.

Set an example by keeping calm

Prom planning can be stressful. Various details

the part of all involved. Prom has evolved to be an all-day event that mixes the getting ready stage with preprom photo opportunities, the dance, and then the after-event. This maximizes the chances for memories that will last a lifetime.

have to come together on the big day. Even though they may appear to be young adults, teens still may have meltdowns or impulse control issues when things don’t go their way. Set an example by reacting to obstacles calmly and finding workarounds.

Stay involved

An involved parent may help keep a teen out of trouble. A Statistics Brain survey of nearly 13,000 high school students found that 14 percent of girls reported having sex on prom night, and 5 percent of girls and 3 percent of boys lost their virginity on prom night. There’s also the potential for sexual assault at prom, particularly when alcohol is present. Informed parents who are keeping tabs on who their children will be hanging out with and setting partying limits can make prom night as safe as possible.

How To Make Grilling Healthier

Grilling is a beloved summer tradition, but it’s not always the healthiest way to eat. Classic backyard barbecue fare like hot dogs and hamburgers may be crowd favorites, but there are simple ways to enjoy the flavor of grilling while maintaining a nutritious diet:

• Choose healthier proteins: Replace burgers and hot dogs with options like fish or skinless chicken breasts. If you still crave a burger, opt for lean ground poultry instead of beef to cut down on saturated fat.

• Practice moderation: The relaxed atmosphere of barbecues can lead to overeating. Swap out chips and heavy sides for healthier choices like fresh vegetables, fruit salad or chickpea salad, and keep portion sizes reasonable.

Health experts recommend about three ounces of meat per serving, with no more than six ounces.

• Skip the salt: While salt enhances flavor, too much can contribute to high blood pressure. Try a salt-free rub made with spices like chili powder, garlic powder and paprika to add bold flavor without extra sodium.

• Add more vegetables: Grilled vegetables are both tasty and nutritious. Brush them with a healthy oil like olive oil to prevent sticking and bring out their natural flavors over the flame.

With a few simple adjustments, grilling can be just as healthy as it is delicious, making your next backyard barbecue both enjoyable and better for you.

Honor Veterans This Memorial

Memorial Day is often associated with the excitement of a long weekend and backyard barbecues, but it is also a time to reflect on the men and women who gave their lives to defend American freedom. Established to honor those who died while serving in the Armed Forces, the day encourages remembrance of their sacrifices. Here are a few ways to pay tribute:

• Observe the National Moment of Remembrance: This one-minute moment of silence takes place at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. Established by Congress in 2000, it asks Americans to pause and reflect on the cost of freedom.

• Honor the American flag: On Memorial Day, the flag is flown at

Interesting Facts About Memorial Day

Memorial Day, observed at the end of May, honors the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the Armed Forces. With origins dating back to the aftermath of the Civil War, the holiday carries deep historical significance. Here are five interesting facts:

Originally called Decoration Day: Before Memorial Day was formally established, communities held springtime tributes by decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. In 1868, General John A. Logan officially proclaimed May 30 as Decoration Day.

Became a national holiday in 1968: President Lyndon B. Johnson signed legislation recognizing Memorial Day as a federal holiday. He also issued a proclamation naming Waterloo, New York, as the birthplace of Memorial Day, noting its early communitywide observance in 1866.

Flowers influenced the date: May 30 was chosen not because of a specific battle, but because it fell during a time when flowers would be in bloom across the country, making it ideal for decorating soldiers’ graves. Expanded after World War I: While early observances focused on Civil War soldiers, the holiday was later expanded to honor all American military personnel who died in any war.

Date changed for a long weekend: The Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved Memorial Day from May 30 to the last Monday in May, creating a three-day weekend for federal workers. The change took effect in 1971.

Day

half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff for the rest of the day, symbolizing mourning in the morning and remembrance in the afternoon.

• Place flags at gravesites: Organizations and volunteers often decorate veterans’ graves with small American flags. Families can also visit cemeteries and leave a penny or stone to show respect.

• Share stories with the next generation: Veterans can help preserve the memory of fallen service members by speaking with young people about their experiences and those of their comrades. Memorial Day is more than a day off—it is a time to remember those who never returned home and to honor their service and sacrifice.

Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made With LEGO Bricks Coming To Old Westbury Gardens

Beautiful And Inspirational Exhibition Exploring Art And Nature Set To Open Friday, May 15th For OWG Members, May 16th To The Public

Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects? Made with LEGO? bricks, an award-winning and record-breaking exhibition that uses beautiful works of art made from simple toy blocks to explore animal endangerment, the balance of ecosystems, and mankind’s relationship with nature is coming to Old Westbury Gardens from Friday, May 15th, 2026, through Monday, September 7, 2026. Old Westbury Gardens Members can enjoy an exclusive preview of the exhibition on Friday, May 15, before it opens to the public beginning Saturday, May 16.

“At Old Westbury Gardens, we believe that meaningful encounters with nature can spark curiosity and creativity at any age,” said Maura Brush, President and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens. “Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects beautifully captures that idea, using art to illuminate the remarkable relationships that shape the natural world. We look forward to welcoming visitors to explore these

imaginative works throughout the gardens this season.”

Produced by Imagine, Nature Connects depicts important topics that the New York artist, Sean Kenney, holds dear, from protecting an animals’ habitat, to planting a garden.

Nature Connects further shows that just as LEGO pieces interconnect, everything in nature is interconnected in a delicate balance. The narratives, along with the intricate displays, also explore the importance of conservation, the balance of ecosystems, predator/prey relationships, as well as the relationships between humankind and the natural world.

The exhibition allows visitors to appreciate both nature and the sculptures as something beautiful, and to inspire them to go home and create something wonderful themselves.

Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects? Made with LEGO? bricks is open daily (except Tuesdays) to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for a limited engagement

through September 7, 2026.

This event is included with admission. General admission is $22; $20 for ages 62+ and full-time students with valid ID; $12

for children ages 7–17; and free for children 6 and under. Tickets will be available to purchase at www.oldwestburygardens. org starting Sunday, March 15.

About Old Westbury Gardens

Built in 1906 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Old Westbury Gardens is the former home of John S. Phipps; his wife, Margarita Grace Phipps, and their children. Today, as a notfor-profit organization, Old Westbury Gardens welcomes visitors of all ages for a wide range of historical, cultural, artistic, educational, horticultural events, and more. Old Westbury Gardens seeks to inspire appreciation of the early 20th century American country estate through faithful preservation and interpretation of its landscape, gardens, architecture and collections. Connect with us at https:// www.oldwestburygardens.

org/, facebook.com/ oldwestburygardens, twitter. com/oldwestburygard, Instagram.com/ oldwestburygardens, https://www.linkedin.com/ company/old-westburygardens

About Imagine

Imagine (formerly known as Imagine Exhibitions) is a global leader in immersive storytelling and experiential design, specializing in the development of worldclass exhibitions and attractions for museums, studios, IPs, brands, and leisure destinations worldwide. Through its four core services— Exhibitions, Studio, Retail, and Operations—Imagine created visitor experiences that entertain, educate, and inspire. Imagine is currently producing, presenting or operating more than 40 unique experiences around the globe, spanning museums, science centers, zoos, botanical gardens, integrated resorts,

and non-traditional venues. For details, visit theimagineteam.com.

About Sean Kenney

Sean Kenney is an awardwinning artist who uses LEGO pieces as a medium for contemporary sculpture, portraiture, and commercial art. He is recognized as one of the leading experts in the field and is a founding member of several global programs that aim to encourage and support this emerging art form.

Millions of people have visited his exhibitions, he has authored 9 children’s books, and The LEGO Group collaborated with him as an official partner for 14 years. Sean’s work has been acclaimed by The New York Times, PBS Arts, BBC Arts, and Vogue, and he continues to create every day at his studio in Amsterdam. www. seankenney.com

Photo Credit: Imagine Exhibitions

Add Some Additional Flavor To Your Memorial Day BBQ

Memorial Day weekend is a time for both reflection and relaxation across the United States. Memorial Day mourns and honors military personnel who lost their lives while serving in the American Armed Forces. Memorial Day parades honor such individuals, and the parades also instill pride in Americans during a muchbeloved weekend across the United States.

Though Memorial Day is observed annually on the last Monday in May, the three-day holiday weekend marks the unofficial start of summer for millions of people each year. That kickoff typically includes lots of backyard barbecues. As millions gather to celebrate Memorial Day this year, those tasked with manning the grill can consider these ways to add some extra flavor to foods cooked over an open flame.

• Monitor temperatures

with a meat thermometer. Over-cooking foods cooked over an open flame is a common mistake. Overcooked foods tend to taste dried out and fail to offer that signature juiciness associated with well-cooked barbecue staples like steak and other types of red meat. People manning the grill this Memorial Day are urged to utilize a meat thermometer, which can ensure foods maintain their juicy flavor profile and do not dry out. The ideal internal cooking temperature varies depending on which foods are being cooked, so be sure to stick to a recipe or look up the appropriate internal cooking temperature for foods that will be cooked over an open flame.

• Utilize wood chips or chunks. Another way to add flavor is to grill foods over wood chips

Make Mom A Great Breakfast In Bed

There may be no better way to start Mother’s Day than serving Mom some breakfast in bed. A homemade meal before Mom even gets out of bed can set the right tone

for a day that celebrates all mothers have done and continue to do for their children. There’s no shortage of breakfast in bed options to serve Mom this Mother’s Day. If Mom

loves a traditional hearty morning meal, this recipe for “Mixed Berry French Toast” courtesy of Taste of Home (tasteofhome.com) is sure to please.

Directions:

Whisk together the first 6 ingredients. Place bread cubes in a 13 x 9-inch or 3-quart baking dish coated with cooking spray. Pour egg mixture over top. Cover and refridgerate 8 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Remove berries from freezer and French toast from refrigerator and let stand while oven heats. Bake French toast, covered, 30 minutes. In a small bowl, cut butter into brown sugar until crumbly. Top French toast with berries; sprinkle with brown sugar mixture. Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 15 to 20 minutes. If desired, dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve with syrup

or chunks. Chips or chunks might be flavored (mesquite is a popular flavor) or unflavored. Cooks should know that adding flavored or unflavored chips or chunks will impart a smoky flavor to anything cooked on the grill. When using a gas grill, cooks can put the chips or chunks in a smoker box or wrap them in a foil pouch to impart extra flavor without adversely affecting the grill.

• Dry rub meats. Some people marinate grilled foods prior to cooking, but marinade can drip off when cooking food and lose much of its value in regard to adding flavor. Dry rubs are made from spices, herbs and other seasonings that won’t fall or burn off when foods are cooking. Dry rubs can add extra flavor when applied hours before cooking or even shortly before placing foods on the grill.

• Slow down. “Low and slow” is a motto embraced by people who love to smoke foods, and that same approach can be applied to more traditional grilling as well. Even if you don’t have all day to cook like you would if you choose to smoke foods, cooking low and slow can ensure foods are juicy and full of that unique taste that’s only possible when cooking over an open flame. Keep vents open only on a crack and cook foods at lower temperatures than you otherwise might. While the foods won’t be cooked as fast, they will boast more of that signature smoky flavor grilling enthusiasts love. There’s no shortage of ways to impart some extra flavor to grilled foods this Memorial Day.

Mixed Berry French Toast

Makes 8 servings 6 large eggs 1 3⁄4 cups fat-free milk 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cubed

1 package (12 ounces) frozen unsweetened mixed berries

2 tablespoons cold butter

1⁄3 cup packed brown sugar

Confectioners’ sugar and maple syrup (optional)

Treat Mom To A Classic Pasta Dish

Moms often work tirelessly to care for their families, with many juggling careers and time spent at home. It’s a balance that is sometimes tricky to manage, and at times mothers need to have their loads lightened. Children or spouses who learn to cook can take some pressure off of Mom. Mother’s Day is a prime opportunity for other members of the household to spend time in the kitchen. Pasta dishes generally are easy to prepare and can feed a crowd. Such is the case with this recipe for “Carbonara” from “Rachael Ray: Memories and Meals From a Sweet and Savory Life” (Ballantine Books) by Rachael Ray.

Carbonara

Serves 4

1⁄4 cup approximately EVOO

1⁄3 pound chunk of meaty pancetta or guanciale, cut into 1⁄4-inch dice

4 large cloves garlic, thinly sliced or chopped

1 1⁄2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper

1 cup white wine

6 large egg yolks

1 cup grated Pecorino Romano, plus more to pass Salt

1 pound bucatini or spaghetti

1⁄2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (a fat handful of leaves)

Directions:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta.

In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, heat the EVOO, four turns of the pan. Add the pancetta or guanciale and render for about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and pepper and stir 1 minute more. Add the wine and reduce by half (about 7 minutes), then reduce the heat to low.

In a medium bowl, combine the egg yolks and grated cheeses to the liberally salted boiling water and cook to 1 minute less than al dente per the package recommendation.

Remove about 11⁄4 cups of starchy cooking water from the pot and whisk it into the egg yolks in a steady stream to temper them. Reserve an extra 1⁄2 cup of starchy water just in case.

Drain the pasta or transfer it with a spider or tongs to the pan with the pancetta and garlic. Remove the pan from the heat and add the tempered egg yolks and parsley. Toss to combine. If the sauce seems too thin, return the heat to the lowest setting and, stirring constantly for 2 to 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Add salt to taste.

Note: Many recipes for this dish include heavy cream. Such recipes may be delicious, but they’re not authentic. The creamy consistency here comes from tempering the eggs and emulsifying them with oil, cheese and cooking water.

Appetizers

Fried Ravioli (5pc) Mozzarella Sticks (4pc)

Baked Clams (5pc)

Baked Manicotti (1pc)

Shrimp Cocktail (6pc) $5 add Fried Calamari (reg. or spicy)

Entrees

Orecchiette with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Eggplant Rollatini

rolled with ricotta and topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese

Chicken Parmigiana

cutlet with tomato sauces and mozzarella

Flounder Francese ﬂounder sauteed in an egg batter in a wine lemon sauce

Pappardelle Bolognese

fresh pappardelle pasta in a meat sauce with a touch of cream

Middle School Students Explore New Horizons At Annual EdVenture Day

John F. Kennedy Middle School students swapped their regular class schedules for something far more unexpected on March 19, when the school held its annual EdVenture Day, a full day of exploration, inspiration and discovery.

Conceived and organized by Principal Erin Hayes and Assistant Principal Anthony Murray, EdVenture Day invited JFK’s teachers to step out from behind their subject areas and share something more personal: a hobby, a skill, a passion. The result was a rich menu of hands-on workshops that gave students a window into their teachers’ lives outside the classroom, while also offering a chance to try something entirely new.

Workshop offerings ranged widely, from video production, ice cream making, and dance, to crochet, sculpting, skincare and bike repair. Students could also try bracelet making, sports card trading, speed and agility training, kickboxing, scrapbooking, and more – a lineup that reflected the breadth of talent and interests within the JFK faculty.

Woven throughout the day was the theme for this year’s EdVenture Day: “250 Years of the United States.” In addition to their chosen workshops, students rotated through three thematic sessions titled “Past,” “Present” and “Future,” connecting their hands-on experiences to a broader sense of history and possibility. To mark their journey through the day, students carried a passport, collecting stamps at each session they attended. A highlight of EdVenture Day was a keynote presentation by Richard Hight, an artist and motivational speaker whose sessions were equal parts visual spectacle and strong encouragement. Mr. Hight opened each session by creating a large-scale chalk drawing in real time, an impressive display that immediately captured students’ attention. The finished works will remain at JFK as lasting reminders of his message to the students. Rather than speaking from a stage, Mr. Hight moved through the auditorium, delivering his words from different seats among the students, a choice that made his message feel even more immediate and personal.

His words were simple and memorable: “Learn from your mistakes and then move on. Keep moving on.” And: “What makes you different can make you great. The world needs more of you.”

Students were asked to reflect on Mr. Hight’s lessons as part of the day’s programming, bringing a thoughtful close to what was, by all accounts, an energizing and collaborative experience for students and teachers alike.

Memorial Day Monday May 25th

Day Sunday May 10th

Outside, students took advantage of the spring weather in a “Speed and Agility” course.

In another session, students learned about calligraphy and drawing banners.

A highlight of EdVenture Day was a keynote presentation by Richard Hight, an artist and motivational speaker. Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Students in a baking workshop learned how to make “Dirt Cups” – chocolate pudding with Oreo bits.

Another popular workshop was braceletmaking.

Middle School Students Celebrate Pi Day With Numbers, Music And Pie

John F. Kennedy Middle School students marked Pi Day with a celebration that was equal parts mathematical and delicious.

On Friday, March 13, students gathered after school with Ms. O’Sullivan and Ms. Hahn for an afternoon of pi-themed

songs, activities and a spirited competition to see who could recite the most digits of the iconic number. The event was offered through the 21st Century Program, which is designed to help students reach their full potential by providing enrichment opportunities

across a wide range of topics.

The highlight of the afternoon was the digitrecitation contest, where Isabella Fu claimed the title of JFK Pi Day Champion – and broke the school record – by reciting an extraordinary 393 digits of

pi from memory.

The celebration wrapped up the way any proper Pi Day should: with pie. Students

chose between apple and berry as they reflected on an afternoon that proved math can be just as sweet as

dessert.

Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

No Pi Day is complete without some pie!

Isabella Fu claimed the title of JFK Pi Day Champion – and broke the school record – by reciting an extraordinary 393 digits of pi from memory.

SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE FROM BETHPAGE WATER DISTRICT

Bringing Water Education to Life for Bethpage Students

Education is essential, and as the water supplier for the Bethpage community, we believe in teaching the importance of protecting our drinking water to students at a young age. That shared commitment between the Bethpage Water District and the Bethpage Union Free School District led to the creation of our water education program more than a decade ago.

Over the course of three days (March 17, 18, 19), more than 150 fth-grade students from the Bethpage School District visited the Water District’s state-of-the-art Plant 6 facility on Motor Lane. Through this interactive experience, students learned about water conservation, the Long Island aquifer system, and the advanced treatment processes that ensure high-quality, reliable drinking water.

This year’s immersive program was enhanced to provide a more engaging and comprehensive learning experience. Students explored the full water treatment cycle—from groundwater sourcing to nal puri cation—while interacting with innovative displays, a mobile education unit, and multimedia presentations designed to bring the process to life.

A special thank you goes to Lorraine Marcis, Science Enrichment Director, along with her colleagues. Ms. Marcis develops an insightful water education curriculum each year, helping students understand the importance of preserving our greatest natural resource through conservation.

Our District takes great pride in not only providing high-quality drinking water, but also in educating the next generation about the infrastructure and technology behind it. Programs like this help build awareness and encourage responsible water use for years to come. Be sure to check out next month’s issue when we announce the winners of our annual Water Conservation Poster Contest.

Michael J. Bouﬁs, Superintendent

Bethpage Water District

These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization

Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington

Senator Steve Rhoads Partners With We Care Blankets To Launch Yarn & Blanket Drive For Kids With Cancer

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads is proud to once again team up with We Care Blankets from through May 1st to collect yarn and blankets for children who are currently undergoing cancer treatments. This will be the second yarn and blanket drive hosted by Senator Rhoads in collaboration with We Care Blankets, the first garnering over 400,000 yards of yarn and over 200 handmade blankets!

We Care Blankets is a notfor-profit started in 1999 by a few people who realized the treatment for children undergoing chemotherapy was cold, difficult, and challenging for them and their families. During the intense treatment, many children get chills and that’s where the founders of We Care Blankets sprang into action with handmade, colorful blankets that serve as a wonderful gift to give to each child. Initially funded by one physician, the organization has grown exponentially, but remains committed to the mission of providing every child undergoing cancer treatment with a handcrafted blanket. Donated yarn and blankets are essential in order to continue the mission of We

Care Blankets. All blankets serve as a gift of love and support - not only for the child - but for the family as well. Each and every blanket donated is personally wrapped with love by a local volunteer at a blanket wrap night and then delivered to a hospital.

There are two ways to take action and support the Yarn and Blanket Drive. The first is to donate yarn at participating locations (listed below). By doing so, you are providing materials for individuals to knit or crochet blankets for these children. The second way to help is by actually making a blanket yourself. All blankets and yarn must be acrylic, 100% washable, and fringe free. This ensures that the blankets are safe and easy to maintain for the hospital, children, and their families. Bright colored blankets and yarn are preferred, as they can bring a sense of joy and positivity to the children’s lives. The minimum size for the blankets is 36”x36”, ensuring that they are large enough to fully swaddle the child and bring comfort and warmth.

This initiative aims to give a child a gift of love and warmth during the difficult time of undergoing cancer treatment. Senator Rhoads

encourages everyone to participate and spread the word about this meaningful cause. He also thanks Verity Van Lines for their support in providing the collection boxes to make this drive successful.

Senator Steve Rhoads said, “It is a heartbreaking reality that far too many children battle cancer at such a young age. While medical care is essential in their fight, it is equally important that they are surrounded by comfort, compassion, and a sense of warmth during such a difficult and painful time. That’s why I am proud to partner with We Care Blankets, along with Verity Van Lines, and all of the libraries across my Senate District, to make a meaningful difference. We Care Blankets is more than just a local charity, it is a community of compassionate individuals who believe deeply in the power of small acts of kindness to uplift others. This initiative goes beyond providing blankets; it offers a tangible reminder to these children that they are not alone in their fight against cancer. Each donation, each stitch, and each act of generosity sends a message of love, strength, and support. I encourage

everyone to come together, donate yarn, make blankets, and give these children a gift

of love and warmth during their difficult journey.”

There are 13 drop-off locations for residents to drop off yarn and blankets:

Bellmore Memorial Library (2288 Bedford Ave, Bellmore, NY 11710)

Bethpage Public Library (47 Powell Ave, Bethpage, NY 11714)

East Meadow Public Library (1886 Front St, East Meadow, NY 11554)

Farmingdale Public Library (116 Merritts Rd, Farmingdale, NY 11735)

Hicksville Public Library (169 Jerusalem Ave, Hicksville, NY 11801)

Island Trees Public Library (38 Farmedge Rd, Levittown, NY 11756)

Levittown Public Library (1 Bluegrass Ln, Levittown, NY 11756)

Merrick Library (2279

Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566)

North Bellmore Public Library (1551 Newbridge Rd, North Bellmore, NY 11710)

North Merrick Public Library (1691 Meadowbrook Rd, North Merrick, NY 11566)

Plainview-Old Bethpage Library (999 Old Country Rd, Plainview, NY 11803)

Seaford Public Library (2234 Jackson Ave # A, Seaford, NY 11783)

Wantagh Public Library (3285 Park Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793)

For more information on Senator Rhoads’ Yarn & Blanket Drive or any legislative matter, please contact Senator Rhoads’ District Office a 516-8820630 or rhoads@nysenate. gov.

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