Farmingdale School District celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of 18 graduating student-athletes who will be advancing to compete at the collegiate level. A commitment signing ceremony took place on Friday, May 9, 2025, to recognize these exceptional individuals for their unwavering commitment to academics and athletics.

Held at Farmingdale High School, the ceremony was a significant event filled with pride, excitement, and heartfelt congratulations. Parents, coaches, and friends gathered to celebrate these student-athletes, who have demonstrated excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

“Your passion and dedication to your sport have brought you to this moment,” stated Jeanne Berkoski, Director of Athletics. “A heartfelt thank you to the parents for your crucial role in supporting your children's athletic pursuits.”

Paul Defendini, Superintendent of Schools, highlighted the importance of balancing academics with athletics, encouraging students to embrace the challenges and opportunities that await them. The entire Daler community extends its warmest congratulations to these talented student-athletes as they embark on the next chapter of their athletic and academic journeys. Their achievements inspire all students, showcasing the rewards of hard work, dedication, and a growth mindset.

The following Farmingdale High School graduating student-athletes have signed to play college sports:

• Anthony Mancuso- Barry University, Baseball, Division 2
• George Thomatos- Binghamton University, Cross Country/Track, Division 1
• Justin Douglas- Queensborough Community College, Baseball, Division 3
• Luke Ferraiolo- Hamilton College, Cross Country/Track, Division 3
• Amani Sodhi- Wheaton College, Swim, Division 3
• Anastasia Wilson- Farmingdale State College, Soccer, Division 3
• Erik Kubelka- St. Joseph’s University, Basketball, Division 3
• Eric Wolfe- Sacred Heart University, Wrestling, Division 1
• Nick Ragone- SUNY Brockport, Football, Division 3
• Dupreast Ramsey- Pace University, Football, Division 3
• Michael Walsh- SUNY Maritime, Football, Division 3
• Dennis Finkel- University of Mount St. Union, Football, Division 3
• Julia Pulos- Rowan University, Dance, Division 3
• Adrianna DeMarco- Long Island University, Dance, Division 1
• Frank Posillico- Nassau Community College, Football, Division 3
• Elijah Sierra- University of South Carolina Salkahatchen, Baseball JUCO Division 1
• Justin Hills- SUNY Plattsburgh, Baseball, Division 3
• Fiona Horbach- Adelphi University, Dance, Division 2

We are thrilled to congratulate all of the honorees for their impressive achievements. The induction ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Community members are encouraged to attend.

Captain Peter Crawford graduated from Farmingdale High School in 1968 and attended the School of Visual Arts. He served in the Vietnam War, which led to a career in law enforcement with the Alexandria Police Department in Virginia. He joined the Special Operations Team, engaging in high-risk operations while balancing family life. Captain Crawford served in the Juvenile Crimes Unit, became a Corporal, and later an instructor at the Northern Virginia Regional Police Academy. His bravery shone during a 1981 hostage situation, earning him the Department’s highest Valor Award and the Virginia Policeman of the Year Award, in addition to the Meritorious Service Award. He was promoted to Lieutenant, and, after the September 11 attacks, was deployed to the Pentagon and continued to serve with the Alexandria Police Department until his retirement in 2004. He worked with the U.S. Department of State, developing tactical training programs globally. He pioneered various initiatives in police management, including integrating paramedics into response teams and expanding K-9 units. It is with great honor and admiration that Captain Peter Crawford is inducted into the 2025 Wall of Fame, recognizing his exceptional service to law enforcement, his country, and his enduring impact on the safety and security of others.

Ms. Jennifer O’Neill, a 2013 graduate of Farmingdale High School, pursued her passion for dance at Long Island University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Studies with honors. She fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming an NFL cheerleader for the New York Jets. She has also trained and performed alongside top industry artists, including collaborations with the prestigious Alvin Ailey Studios. Ms. O’Neill became a featured pointe soloist in a television commercial and multiple marketing publications for Long Island University’s dance program. Her choreography was represented at the Northeast Conference of the American College Dance Festival for two years. Ms. O’Neill’s dance training began at Step By Step Dance Studio under the guidance of Sharon Dunphy Bartlett. Her passion continued to be cultivated at Farmingdale High School, where she was an integral member of the Dalerettes dance program, displaying remarkable leadership while serving as captain and choreographer. Ms. O’Neill took ownership of Step By Step Dance Studio in 2020 and runs the studio with a deep commitment to giving back to the community. She embodies the values of Daler Strong, Dalerkind, and the enduring spirit of “Once a Daler, Always a Daler.” It is with great pride that we announce Ms. Jennifer O’Neill as a 2025 Wall of Fame Inductee in recognition of her professional and artistic accomplishments, as well as her profound impact on the Farmingdale community.

Dr. Randee Bonagura’s journey began at Farmingdale High School, where she distinguished herself not only in academics but also in band and kickline. She earned her Doctorate of Education in Literary Studies at Hofstra University, and also obtained an administrative degree from the College of New Rochelle. Dr. Bonagura is a published author, adjunct professor, and a respected leader in the field of education, currently serving as an elementary principal in the Wantagh School District with over 30 years of experience in education. As a leading voice in the makerspace movement, she authored Embrace Makerspace: A Pocket Guide for Elementary School Administrators, a guide that has become essential reading for educational leaders looking to create enriching STEAM experiences for students. She is a speaker for the Little Free Library initiative, promoting literacy through her stewardship of a neighborhood library. She performs with the Farmingdale Village Pops, and she helped coordinate fundraising initiatives following the marching band bus accident in 2023. Her impactful TEDx presentation highlighted the spirit of giving that thrives within the Daler community, underscoring her unwavering dedication to making a meaningful difference. For her leadership in education, her contributions to the makerspace movement, and her lifelong dedication to the Farmingdale community, it is our great honor to induct Dr. Randee Bonagura into the Farmingdale Wall of Fame.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Howitt Middle School's native garden, the first-ever "Taste of Farmingdale Under the Stars" event was brimming with delightful flavors, fantastic company, and lively music.

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, months of hard work and collaboration culminated in the Farmingdale School District’s inaugural “Taste of Farmingdale Under the Stars” event at Howitt Middle School. The gathering occurred in the school’s native garden, beautifully situated between the campus buildings. The twinkling lights created a magical atmosphere, and the weather was perfect. Mrs. Cristina Marzillier, a sixth-grade teacher at Howitt Middle School and the school’s Garden Club advisor, took the lead in organizing this event. She’d long dreamed of an occasion for the Farmingdale community, teachers, staff, families, and friends to come together and enjoy the offerings of Farmingdale’s fantastic local restaurants. Mrs. Marzillier envisioned an atmosphere filled with music provided by the Howitt Music Department, paired with laughter and conversation under the stars, fostering a genuine sense of community while showcasing the native garden and paying tribute to its roots.

“Tonight is not just a celebration of food and community—it is the realization of a dream, a tribute to collaboration, and a moment to honor the roots that helped this vision grow,” said Mrs. Marzillier. “It is also a chance to recognize the people who planted the very first seeds figuratively and literally.”

More than a dozen local restaurants and vendors from Farmingdale were excited to participate in this inaugural event. They generously contributed tables, linens, and an irresistible array of delicious food that guests simply couldn't get enough of. From gourmet sliders, pasta, and empanadas to savory gluten-free delights and decadent desserts, there was something to satisfy every palate. Their commitment to the community was evident in every bite, every smile, and every moment of shared joy under the starlit sky. Each restaurant brought its unique flair, showcasing the diverse culinary talents that Farmingdale had to offer. Guests wandered from table to table, sampling the exquisite offerings and engaging in lively conversations with the chefs and vendors eager to share their culinary stories.

“It’s amazing what can be accomplished when a community comes together,” remarked Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. “This event has not only highlighted the incredible food and talent our town has to offer but has also reinforced what makes Farmingdale truly special—our spirit of togetherness and resilience.”

As the evening ended, the community gathered to hear from Mrs. Marzillier, who honored retired Farmingdale State College professor Michael Veracka for his pivotal role in the garden. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event's success. The “Taste of Farmingdale Under the Stars” had undoubtedly sown the seeds for what promised to become a beloved tradition.

The Native Garden at Howitt Middle School, established in 2017, has become a thriving space thanks to dedicated colleagues and enthusiastic student Garden Club members. Club Advisors include Mrs. Cristina Marzillier, Mrs. Varneet Kaur, and Mr. Matthew Szabo. Their collective efforts have transformed the garden into a symbol of growth and community, reflecting the club's motto: “Dalers Bloom and Grow!”

A heartfelt thank you to all the individuals and groups who collaborated to ensure the night's success:

• Farmingdale Federation of Teachers
• Howitt Middle School Custodial Staff
• Howitt Music Department
• Howitt Steppers Farmingdale
• Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini
• Howitt Middle School Principal Mike Gavalas
• Gina Brinskelle and the Howitt Middle School PTA
• Samantha Stoll
• Anna McCarthy and family
• Samantha Black
• Rosemary Lee
• Pavese Party Tents
• New Line Linens
• 317 Main Street
• Vico
• Burgerology
• Casa Stellina
• The Coop
• Croxley’s
• Library Cafe
• Mary’s Pizza
• The Recovery Room Cafe
• The Nutty Irishman
• Tap Room
• Uncle Joey’s Rainbow Explosion
• Vespa
• Vice Doughnuts
• The Villager
• ZuZu

All concerts this season will take place in-person, with no need for tickets to attend. Additionally, all concerts will be recorded. Links from each performance will be made available here a few days after the performance.

APRIL 10, 2025 JAZZ SHOWCASE