Community Corner
Street Dedication Ceremony for 2 Farmingdale School District Educators
Street Signs Honoring Gina Pellettiere and Beatrice Ferrari
October 19, 2024
Street Dedication Ceremony
For Two Farmingdale School District Educators
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The Town of Oyster Bay and the Farmingdale School District (FSD) held a Street Dedication Ceremony on October 8, 2024 in memory of Gina Pellettiere and Beatrice Ferrari, “two beloved educators who dedicated their lives to Farmingdale and its students” and tragically lost their lives in the Band Camp School Bus Accident on September 21, 2023. “They were not just teachers but role models – beacons of light and inspiration.”
“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 by instilling knowledge, determination, curiosity, dedication, love and hope in the lives of those they taught” - Gina as a passionate and innovative music teacher and band leader and Bea as a retired history teacher who devoted over three decades to the FSD students. Bea was also a longstanding member of the Women’s Club of Farmingdale (WCF) where she chaired several committees and, with her signature humor and fanfare, the club’s annual Lemon Auction. Representing the club at the dedication were Lynda Leone, President, Tina Diamond, Linda Kreussling and Sue Perma.
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Opening remarks by Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini, an Honor Guard from the Farmingdale & South Farmingdale Fire Departments, a Pledge of Allegiance by the Farmingdale Fire Department, a National Anthem by the Farmingdale High School Marching Band and an Invocation by the Rev. George Oppong Afriyie from St. Kilian’s Parish preceded remarks from the Hon. Bruce A. Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, the Hon. Joseph Saladino, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor, and members of the Pellettiere and Ferrari families.
While the street dedications and unveiling of signs took place, the Farmingdale High School Marching Band provided an exceptional musical performance. A blessing by Rev. Afriyie and closing remarks by Supt. of Schools Paul Defendini completed the dedication ceremony.
May the spirits of Gina and Bea continue to inspire us all.
The Women’s Club of Farmingdale, a local philanthropic organization, is always interested in welcoming new members. For more information, please email: lodaromanelli@gmail.com. #IAMGFWC
submitted by Maria Ortolani, WCF Publicity Chair
