The Farmingdale School District, in collaboration with the Town of Oyster Bay, held a special street renaming ceremony on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. This event honored the late Farmingdale educators Gina Pellettiere and Beatrice “Bea” Ferrari, who tragically passed away on September 21, 2023, when a charter bus carrying 40 members of the Farmingdale High School marching band overturned on Interstate 84 in Orange County on their way to a band camp in Pennsylvania.
The ceremony at Farmingdale High School was presided over by Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. It featured performances by the Farmingdale High School Marching Band performances, Dalerettes, and Daler Guard. Attendees included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, and Oyster Bay Town Board members. New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti Jr., Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, and John Mikulin were present. Representing Governor Kathy Hochul's office was Stevens Martinez, Deputy Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.
“The impact that they have left behind has shaped the lives of thousands, and it is for this reason that we join here to commemorate the lives of our two angels,” said Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. “Their names and, in turn, their lives will be forever remembered as we travel in and around the area of Farmingdale High School, a place they both called home for most of their lives.”
The Farmingdale and South Farmingdale Fire Departments presented the honor guard, while the Junior Brigade led the Pledge of Allegiance. The Dalers Marching Band performed the National Anthem, and Rev. George Oppong Afriyie from St. Kilian Parish delivered the invocation and blessed the street signs.
Following remarks from Honorable Joseph Saladino and Honorable Bruce A. Blakeman, the families of Beatrice Ferrari and Gina Pellettiere shared heartfelt messages. Gina's mother, Diane, and her brother, Danny, inspired others to chase their passions, set goals, and cherish time with family. Bea's daughters, Angela Aldiere and Dina Lopresto, reminisced about treasured moments with their mother and her enthusiasm for the annual Farmingdale traditions, including the upcoming Halloween Parade at Farmingdale High School that passes right by her home. The families expressed profound gratitude to the Farmingdale community for supporting them through this challenging time. They hope these street signs will serve as a beacon for future generations, encouraging them to honor their loved ones and pursue their dreams.
After the speeches, the street signs were unveiled by Bea's grandson, Luke Aldiere, a senior at Farmingdale High School and a marching band member. Gina’s son, Joseph, revealed her sign with help from her brothers, Anthony and Danny.
“These two amazing women were true role models and the inspiration for what our futures will bring,” said Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “They represented the gold standard of service and were the heart and soul of the band. They were, and always will be, true Dalers.”
As students, faculty, residents, and visitors pass by 10th and 11th Streets along Woodward Parkway, they will forever remember two educators who gave their all—instilling knowledge, determination, curiosity, dedication, love, and hope in the lives of those they taught.