May 27, 2026 Bethpage

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

We would like to begin by extending our sincere gratitude to the corporate members whose continued support helps strengthen our growing Chamber. We are proud to welcome back Platinum Eagle member FourLeaf Federal Credit Union and Silver Eagle member Steel Equities, and to welcome new Silver Eagle member Optimum and its family of brands, including News12. Through their partnership, we look forward to expanding awareness of Chamber events across the region in the months ahead.

June has brought warm weather, blooming flowers, and a full calendar of local sports and community activity. If you have had the chance to enjoy a neighborhood game or spend time downtown, you have likely felt the energy this season brings to Bethpage. We also ask our local storefronts to please help water the planters during the heat. Our beautification team truly appreciates that support, and those flowers help keep our downtown looking welcoming and full of hometown pride.

As the school year ends, we also extend our congratulations to the Bethpage High School seniors who were awarded Chamber scholarships, as well as to all of the students moving up and reaching important milestones this month.

As a volunteer-led Chamber made up of local business owners, this spring has been an especially busy and rewarding season. We are grateful to work alongside so many community organizations whose time, energy, and partnership help make Bethpage a stronger and more connected place. We are especially thankful for the partnerships that continue to support Bethpage throughout the year. Bethpage Central Park Kiwanis recently hosted a wonderful Bethpage Street Fair, and we are already looking forward to the next one on October 4th. The Knights of Central Park continue to lead the Veteran Banners program and are also helping organize the July parade, along with the Bethpage School District and Bethpage Fire Department. We also thank the Bethpage Community Council, whose quarterly meetings help keep our hamlet connected and informed, as well as our local small businesses, which remain the heartbeat of our town.

Please watch for patriotic updates this month from the Bethpage American Legion, Butehorn Brothers VFW, and the Hartigan Council of the Knights of Columbus. With Flag Day on June 14th, we encourage everyone to proudly display their Stars and Stripes as our community looks ahead to the America 250 celebration and an exciting July in Bethpage and around Long Island. Then celebrate Dad on June 21st!

The Bethpage Independence Day Parade will take place on Friday July 3rd at 9:00 a.m., with Music on Broadway to follow at 12:00 p.m., depending on parade timing. Broadway will reopen after the daytime festivities end. This celebration is being organized in partnership with the Bethpage School District, Bethpage Fire Department, and the Knights of Central Park. Participants must sign up by June 3rd to be included in the lineup roster, floats, donations and sponsors are always welcome as we work together to make this special community event a success.

As we move into summer, we thank all of our members, volunteers, residents, and community partners for the time, energy, and pride you continue to invest in Bethpage. We look forward to celebrating the season together and to seeing you at the many events that make Bethpage such a special place to call home. Your continued support helps our Chamber grow and keeps our downtown traditions, and sense of community strong.

Business: Charles Ferrante

Ava Morgan

Community Service: Catherine Taa e Sukham Kaur

Katherine Miraval Ins Agcy Inc

Kathy M Miraval, Agent

326 Broadway

Bethpage, NY 11714

Bus: 516-433-2929

How Flag Day Got Its Start Community Invited To Celebrate Flag Day

Flag Day is commemorated each year in the United States on June 14. Though Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, the day remains significant nonetheless, as it traces its origins all the way back to 1777.

The Second Continental Congress formally adopted the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777. That resolution noted certain characteristics of the new flag, including the alternating red and white stripes that remain part of the flag that is celebrated each June 14.

Flag Day is one of various notable events and holidays commemorated in June, a list that includes Father’s Day, Juneteenth and the summer solstice. That can make it easy for Flag Day to get lost in the proverbial shuffle, but the Farmer’s Almanac notes it is customary for the sitting president of the United States to encourage

Americans to display the flag outside of their homes and businesses each June 14. The flag is flown from all public buildings on Flag Day, which the Farmer’s Almanac reports is another rich tradition that dates back 1877 and the centennial of the flag’s adoption.

President Woodrow Wilson issued a presidential proclamation on June 14, 1916, that designated the day as Flag Day going forward. Thirty-

three years after President Wilson’s proclamation, the U.S. Congress officially established June 14 as National Flag Day.

One notable tidbit Americans can consider this Flag Day is the connection between the flag and seamstress Betsy Ross. Many American schoolchildren were taught that Ms. Ross designed and sewed the first American flag, but historians have since discredited that legend. The Farmer’s

Almanac notes that many historians now believe George Washington already had a design for a flag with 13 red and white alternating stripes and 13 six-pointed stars set in a circle when he visited Ms. Ross in Philadelphia. And while historians do not doubt that Ms. Ross sewed a flag reflecting the design George Washington brought with him when visiting the seamstress, it’s hard to confirm if she in fact sewed the first flag.

Residents are encouraged to honor Flag Day on June 14, commemorating the adoption of the American flag in 1777 and the values it represents. Flag Day is a time to reflect on the nation’s history, unity, and freedom. Community members can participate by displaying the American flag at their homes and businesses and attending local ceremonies and educational programs. Flag Day reminds us of the ideals that unite us as Americans. It’s a meaningful opportunity to come together and show pride in our country.

Local observances may include flagraising ceremonies and activities for residents of all ages to learn about the history and significance of the Stars and Stripes.

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

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 “Pecan-Stuffed 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.

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.

The Ultimate Guide To Dads’ Day Dining

Father’s Day is a time to honor fathers and father figures. Dads often do so much to support and love their families without much fanfare, making Father’s Day the perfect chance to treat them to something special — often a delicious meal.

According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending was expected to reach a record $24 billion in 2025, up from $22.4 billion in 2024 and surpassing the previous record of $22.9 billion set in 2023. Special outings remain one of the most popular gift choices, showing that many families prefer creating memories together over traditional presents. As families plan to celebrate Dad this year, dining out remains a thoughtful and popular way to mark the occasion.

• Classic steakhouse: A reservation at a steakhouse is always a solid choice. These restaurants are sophisticated and intimate, with broad menu appeal. Since steakhouses tend to be pricier, planning ahead is important.

• Casual barbecue: For a laid-back dad, a relaxed BBQ spot with a patio can be ideal. Pulled pork, slow-smoked ribs, or a brisket sandwich with a cold beer make for a memorable Father’s Day meal.

• Seafood lover: Dads who love seafood may appreciate a restaurant with a strong seafood menu, especially one located on the water. Options range from upscale dining to casual fish fry spots.

• Gastropub: Many pubs combine great food with rotating craft brews. An artisanal burger paired with a pretzel and an IPA or stout can make for the perfect celebration.

Bethpage High School International Relations Students Visit The United Nations

On April 30, Bethpage High School’s international relations class had the unique opportunity of visiting the United Nations headquarters in New York City along with Mr. Musto and Ms. Indenbaum. Students received a guided tour of the facility and, in a serendipitous moment, were able to visit the General Assembly room while a live meeting was in session. Seeing the world’s foremost international body at work in real time made for an experience students aren’t likely to

forget.

The tour covered the history of the United Nations, its ongoing role in disarmament and the de-escalation of armed conflict, and the wide-

reaching humanitarian work carried out by UN organizations around the globe. For students studying international relations, it was a chance to connect classroom learning to the realworld diplomacy and cooperation that shapes global events.

Photos courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

Dreaming

We’re

Each year on July 4, many Americans are in a celebratory mood as they prepare for all the fanfare involved with Independence Day festivities. But Independence Day 2026 stands to be extra special since it marks America’s 250th birthday. Towns, cities and the entire country will be planning much more extravagant July 4 celebrations in 2026. People who want to get in on the America 250 action may want to begin thinking

Decorating For America’s 250th Anniversary

about how they are going to make their homes and businesses more festive.

• Bunting and banners: Bunting and banners are traditional patriotic decorations. They traditionally are red, white and blue and can be hung from porches, fences and railings.

• American flags: Many homes and businesses already display the flag, but this is the perfect opportunity to do so for those who want to

exhibit their pride in America. Be sure to treat the flag with respect and review the official United States Flag Code, which mandates that the flag never touches the ground and is illuminated if flown at night. When hanging against a wall or window, the blue union must be at the top left.

• Specialty signs: Many municipalities are getting in on the America 250 action and will organize specialty parades and parties. People can check with local government offices to see if lawn signs will be available. If so, they can be displayed in front of homes or retail stores.

• Tablescapes: Themed America 250 tablecloths can be used for backyard parties and picnics. Centerpieces of mason jars filled with mini flags

and birthday number candles spelling out 250 are another fun idea.

• Cozy accents: Both homeowners and store owners can incorporate cozy accents like wooden blocks or patriotic table runners that display the 1776-2026 theme. Throw pillows and blankets featuring stars and stripes tossed over an antique

rocking chair on a porch or near an entryway is a great way to offer a touch of Americana.

• Lights: Twinkling holiday lights in red ,white and blue can be hung around windows and doors, or wrapped around trees in the yard for festive appeal.

Communities may

A MESSAGE FROM BETHPAGE WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

identify specific decorating goals, like entire streets featuring paper lanterns, or America 250 flags on telephone poles. Residents can participate in such plans where possible. America’s 250th birthday certainly is worthy of celebration and lots of patriotic decor can commemorate this special event.

Spring has sprung and summer is rapidly approaching… Pools are opening, sprinklers are running and gardens will start to bloom. These are the things that make the summer FUN, but they also require large amounts of water. By following a few conservation tips, you can help reduce the stress on our water delivery system while enjoying these upcoming summer months:

• Water Early and Less Often. Watering in the evening or early morning helps reduce evaporation

• Replace Old Irrigation Controls with Smart Sensors. Smart sensors auto-adjust with weather, minimizing unnecessary watering

• Plant Smart. Native plants thrive in our climate, and don’t need a lot of watering

• Use Soaker Hoses in Gardens. Drip hoses get right at the root and use less water

• Mulch Landscapes. Helps to control weeds and maintains moisture around plants

• Sweep or Blow the Driveway. No need to use a garden hose to accomplish the same goal

Please remember that Bethpage adheres to Nassau County Irrigation Ordinances:

• Lawn watering between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. is prohibited

• Even-numbered addresses and non-numbered homes can water only on even-numbered days

• Odd-numbered addresses can water only on odd-numbered days

• No watering on the 31st of any month

As we recognize and observe Memorial Day, the Bethpage Water District would like to acknowledge and honor the brave men and women of our United States Military who paid the ultimate sacri ce in serving and protecting our freedom and great nation.

The Board of Water Commissioners

Bethpage Water District

John F. Coumatos, Chairman • Theresa M. Black, Treasurer • Scott A. Greco, Secretary

Bethpage High School Senior Named National Merit Finalist

Bethpage High School senior Aaryan Rupesh has achieved one of the most prestigious academic distinctions available to high school students in the country, earning the title of National Merit Finalist. Initially recognized as a semifinalist in September, Aaryan is now among just 15,000 students nationwide who were selected as finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation from a pool of approximately 1.3 million entrants.

Earning Finalist status is no small feat. Beyond an exceptional PSAT score, students must demonstrate sustained academic excellence through strong SAT results, an outstanding academic record, a school official’s recommendation and a comprehensive application that includes coursework, extracurricular involvement, volunteer work and a personal essay. Finalists receive a Certificate of Merit and become eligible for National Merit Scholarships.

For Aaryan, one of his proudest academic achievements has been his perfect math scores across the SAT, PSAT and ACT. “I feel they serve as a reflection of my hard work during prep,” he said. His preparation, notably, was something of a happy coincidence. He began SAT prep the summer before junior year, with his first SAT scheduled for October, just a week before the PSAT. “Inadvertently, I was studying for the PSAT,” he explained. His advice to underclassmen looking ahead to the test: start early and take practice seriously.

A student with wide-ranging academic interests, Aaryan counts AP Physics II, AP Government, and AP Statistics among his favorite subjects. Outside the classroom, he is deeply involved in robotics, jazz

Bethpage High School senior Aaryan Rupesh has been named a National Merit Finalist. Photo courtesy of Bethpage Union Free School District

band, and the math team. He also founded Future Engineers Academy, a nonprofit that reflects his commitment to making engineering accessible to younger students.

A pivotal moment in shaping his path came during sophomore year, when he enrolled in Mrs. Strauch’s Principles of Engineering I course. Although Aaryan had already been involved in robotics since his freshman year (drawn in by his experience with Lego League in middle school), it was that class that cemented his decision to pursue engineering in college and beyond. “It really solidified my decision,” he said.

Balancing a demanding course load with a full slate of extracurricular commitments requires discipline, and Aaryan has developed a practical approach. He makes the most of his lunch periods to chip away at homework, leaving his afternoons and evenings free for the activities he loves. His advice to fellow students is straightforward: “Don’t waste your free time. As much as you want to just flop onto your bed and start doomscrolling, take the time to finish your work, and then afterwards you can enjoy yourself stress-free.”

As graduation approaches, Aaryan is looking forward to everything college has in store. “I am most excited for all of the new people and opportunities I will encounter,” he said, “and also to see where college will take me.” The Bethpage community congratulates Aaryan on this remarkable achievement and wishes him every success in the exciting journey ahead.

College Accounting Classes Attend Sports Business Day

On March 18, Bethpage High School’s College Accounting students had the opportunity to attend Sports Business Day at UBS Arena, where they connected with and learned from executives of the New York Islanders. The

students toured the arena and received an inside look at how the Islanders enterprise operates behind the scenes.

Sales executives spoke about their corporate sponsorships with companies such as Verizon,

JetBlue and American Express – advertisements for which are displayed across the arena. Representatives from the community relations department spoke about the importance of community outreach, especially to young people,

which they foster through their Future Islanders Program and other community initiatives. All the professionals spoke about the individual paths they took to reach their current positions, giving students a broader sense

of the career possibilities within sports management.

create such a successful franchise.

From brand management to fan engagement, this opportunity provided students with a whole new perspective on the industry by seeing how much effort and teamwork it takes to

BETHPAGE

CLASS OF 2026

BETHPAGE HIGH SCHOOL ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2026 VALEDICTORIAN

AND SALUTATORIAN

Valedictorian

Bethpage High School is proud to announce its valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2026: Gregorio (Andres) Bonetti and Anthony Hacker.

Andres Bonetti has earned the title of valedictorian with a 110.32 GPA. A student-athlete and aspiring scientist, Andres balanced his time between the soccer team, marching band and the school’s science research program throughout his four years at Bethpage. His most notable academic achievement came through the SPARK (Student Partnerships for Advanced

Research and Knowledge) mentorship program at Brookhaven National Laboratory, where he and two peers designed an original research study examining heavy metal pollution and its health outcomes. He also competed in the Junior Science Humanities Symposium, an experience he counts among his proudest high school accomplishments. This fall, Andres will head to Georgetown University to study biochemistry, with the long-term goal of becoming a cardiologist with his own practice.

Anthony Hacker has been named

Salutatorian of

salutatorian with a 108.84 GPA. Throughout his time at Bethpage, Anthony was a member of both the basketball and soccer teams and brought that same competitive drive to the classroom and beyond, participating in Mock Trial and the Investment Club. He will attend Binghamton University in the fall to study political science, with plans to pursue a career in corporate law, focusing on the finance or technology sectors in New York City. Congratulations to Andres and Anthony on this well-deserved recognition.

437665AN052726

BETHPAGE CLASS OF 2026

Congratulations To Bethpage High

School Graduating Class Of 2026!

Bethpage High School Hosts Career Fair For Future Professionals

Future professionals filled the hallways on March 27 as the Bethpage High School business department hosted a career fair, giving students the opportunity to meet and network with executives and professionals across a range of fields.

The event opened with a lightning interview session in which students participated in multiple three-minute one-on-one

interviews with attending professionals. Panel discussions followed, offering students a chance to hear first-hand experiences from professionals in their areas of interest, including health, education, technology, marketing, finance and executive leadership. The fair concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing the top seven interviewees, as

well as a female and male best dressed.

Bethpage High School remains committed to providing students with hands-on experiences that prepare them for their future careers.

Thank you to the following professionals for connecting with and educating Bethpage High School students:

James Arthur, Global VP of

Strategic Partnerships

Melissa Behrman, Registered Nurse (NICU)

Melissa Christensen, Chief Operating Officer

Stephen Dagnell, Partner

Frankie DeBobes, Former Fire Chief, Current Fire Commissioner

Evan Giniger, President and Founder

Adam Glassman, Chiropractor

Joe Goldberg, Head of Infrastructure and Cybersecurity

Maya Khan, Tax Partner

Michelle Lampert, Performance Marketing Manager

Mindy Lampert, Academic & Outreach Specialist

Jillian Leavey, Associate Attorney

Leslie Linsner, Chief Human Resources Officer

Joe Malerba, Media Sales/ Marketing Executive

Matthew Marullo, Music Teacher

Michael Moerler, Vice President, Senior Financial Consultant

Jim Minogue, Chief

Operating Officer

Dylan Pane, Biomechanics Engineer

Beth Pereira, Children’s Librarian

Francesca Russell, School PR & Communications Specialist

Shari Ruziecki, Director of Marketing and Promotions

Peter Shanhai, EMT Instructor (CIC)

Justine Sharoyan, Principal Ryan Singh, Supervisor, Operations

Thomas Valenti, Home Health Liaison

“Business First has saved us nearly $3,200.”*

—Lisa Basini, Baking Coach, Bellport

Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space that reduced her monthly energy costs. Now, her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.

Reduce your energy costs. Get a free business energy assessment. psegliny.com/businessassessment

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

celebrate the dads who lead with strength, kindness, and heart, and we lovingly remember those fathers who have passed on but whose guidance and love still live within us.

Adventureland = Family Fun & Great Value!

Adventureland is Long Island’s only place to enjoy thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides—all in one park! Family owned and operated for over 64 years! This Farmingdale favorite offers safe, clean fun for all ages!

Admission includes unlimited rides all day plus live entertainment like magicians, stage shows, and princesses. Guests also enjoy FREE parking and FREE high-speed internet.

2026 Season Pass = Best Value

Pays for itself in under 4 visits! Includes perks like expedited entry, discounts on souvenir cups, and bring-a-friend deals.

Ways to Save

Alfie’s Last Call: Save up to 43% on general admission (available daily for the last 2 operating hours)

Sunset Savings: Save up to 37% on general admission (Mon-Thurs after 5pm, June 29-Aug 13)

Library Passes: Save up to 32% on general admission (available for purchase at participating libraries)

Special Events

Mother’s Day (May 10): MOMS get FREE admission on Mother's Day with the purchase of a full priced general admission ticket.

Father’s Day (June 21): DADS get FREE admission on Father's Day with the purchase of a full priced general admission ticket.

Bethpage High School Hosts Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser

The Bethpage school community came together on March 18 in the Bethpage High School cafeteria for the school’s annual Empty Bowls fundraiser, a studentdriven event that raises money for Island Harvest, a Long Island-based hunger relief organization.

Organized by Bethpage

High School’s ceramic artists under the guidance of art teacher Elena Cardo, the fundraiser has become a beloved spring tradition since its founding four years ago. The event was the brainchild of two Bethpage seniors, Alyssa Khan and Athanasia Panagos, who worked with fellow students to establish

a local chapter of the Empty Bowls Project, a national grassroots movement of artists and craftspeople united by a shared mission to help end hunger in their communities.

The work begins months before the event itself. Each fall, Bethpage’s ceramic artists start crafting unique, handmade ceramic

bowls; by the time spring arrives, dozens of one-ofa-kind pieces are ready for attendees to take home. Tickets were priced at $20 and included a bowl of soup provided by Aramark, enjoyed in the ceramic bowl of each guest’s choosing – a keepsake they could take home with them. Additional bowls

were available for purchase at $10 each. All proceeds, along with money raised through raffles, were donated directly to Island Harvest.

As guests savored their soup, a quartet of Bethpage High School musicians set the mood with an eclectic mix of live music, including selections from ABBA and Sade. Beyond the funds raised, the Empty Bowls Fundraiser offered something equally meaningful: a chance for students to share their creativity with their community, and for the Bethpage community to come together in support of a cause that matters.

30 PERSON MINIMUM

Whip Up A Quick Pasta Salad With Ingredients Fresh From The Garden

Fresh produce is refreshing and delicious. Whether it’s recently plucked fruits or freshly harvested vegetables, these foods boast a flavor and nutritional profile unlike any other. Comfort foods might reign supreme during colder winter months, but come spring and summer, lighter fare can be just what people need to maintain their energy and avoid feeling sluggish on warm days and nights. This recipe for “Pasta Salad with Broad Beans, Tomatoes, Peppers, and Herbs” courtesy of Lines+Angles offers a midday energy boost that can lighten your culinary load in the months to come.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cook the farfalle in a large saucepan of salted, boiling water until al dente; 8 to 10 minutes.

2. Drain and refresh immediately in iced water.

3. Once cool, drain again and toss in a large mixing bowl with the vegetables and chopped herbs.

4. Add the olive oil, lemon juice and seasoning, tossing again thoroughly before serving.

Pasta Salad With Broad Beans, Tomatoes, Peppers, And Herbs

Makes 6 to 8 servings

1 lb. farfalle pasta

4 vine tomatoes, diced

8 ounces broad beans

1 yellow pepper, diced

2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

1 sprig chopped thyme

1 small bunch chives, snipped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Freshly ground black peppercorns

Salt

Dig Into These Facts

About A Vegetarian Diet

Vegetarians follow plant-based diets and avoid meat and poultry, while getting protein from other sources. Some also include eggs, dairy, or fish, while vegans avoid all animal products. Experts say vegetarian diets can be healthy when properly planned. A balanced diet should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and other nutrient-rich foods.

Key nutrients to watch include vitamin B-12, calcium, vitamin D, protein, iron, zinc, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids. Foods like soy, legumes, walnuts, seaweed, and fortified cereals can help fill those needs.

With the right approach, a vegetarian diet can support overall health and help reduce the risk of chronic illness.

PLACE YOUR GRADUATION ORDERS EARLY!

Spring Is The Perfect Time To List Your Home

1.

2.

Listings

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4.

5.

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About