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

Each year, the Farmingdale School District’s PTA motivates students to participate in the National PTA Reflections program. This initiative inspires students to express their thoughts and feelings creatively, fostering a love for learning that goes beyond the arts. Student submissions may fall into various categories, including: Dance, Film production, Literature, Music composition, Photography, and Visual arts. All entries must align with the chosen inspiring theme—this year’s focus is “Accepting Imperfection.” Dalers were motivated, resulting in an impressive total of 68 entries. On the evening of Wednesday, April 30, 2025, a District-Wide Reflections Ceremony took place at Farmingdale High School. This event celebrated the remarkable program and all student artists who participated.

The Reflections Ceremony welcomed students, PTA members, and families to gather in a jubilant celebration of every participant’s hard work and commitment. Special thanks to the PTA's unwavering support and encouragement, which nurtured these young artists, with heartfelt appreciation for Farmingdale’s dedicated PTA Reflections chairs: Sheree Jones, Victoria Curran, Jesica Lundberg, Kelly Verdi, and Karyn Tanacan.Thirty-one students advanced to the Nassau County judging level, with Howitt Middle School seventh graders Stefan Mastermaker and Daliza Laporta progressing to the prestigious New York State level. Anticipation builds as winners await the announcement in May.

The National PTA Reflections program has long been a beacon of artistic achievement, confidence-building, and passion-nurturing. With a rich legacy spanning over 50 years, it inspires students to express their thoughts and emotions creatively, instilling a love for learning that transcends the arts. Annually, over 300,000 students find a platform to shine and grow, a testament to the program’s enduring impact.

Dalers Who Advanced to the Nassau County Level of Judging:

•  Albany Avenue Sarah Ng, Vincent Boccassi, Ariana Hackman, Devin Gutkowski, Kesey Morrow, Olivia Viola
• Northside Liv Smith, Charlotte Kinneary, Hudson Attia, Aubrey Dulgarian, Ashlyn Murphy, Lilian Seltenreich
• Saltzman East Memorial Benjamin Elnick, Vincent Malizia, Jude Reggio, Jessie Becerra
• Woodward Parkway Isabella Verdi, Morgan Petersen, Kayla Petersen, Tommy Messina, Sarah Russell, Haven Kinhackl, Theodore Voelpel, Dylan Petersen
• Howitt Middle School Addison Suwalski, Ryland Hasselberger, Emily Kelly, Chloe Alvarez, Madison Brinskelle

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

Farmingdale School District's Annual Wellness Fair

On April 24, 2025, the Farmingdale School District's Wellness Committee hosted its annual Wellness Fair at Farmingdale High School, centered around the theme "Move, Play, Grow." This lively and engaging event promoted well-being and healthy living within the Farmingdale community. Students enthusiastically participated in various activities and workshops, gaining valuable insights and practical skills to boost their physical and mental health.

A Positive Atmosphere

The fair was alive with positivity as families explored numerous booths and interactive displays. Participants learned about the significance of mindfulness, sampled delicious and nutritious snacks, and spun the wheel of wellness, ensuring there was something enjoyable and beneficial for everyone.

Engaging Activities

Exciting fitness challenges, such as the Trike-A-Thon and a Water Polo demonstration at the Aquatic Center, highlighted the importance of staying active. A popular attraction was the CPR demonstration conducted by the South Farmingdale and Village of Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Company, where students could learn life-saving techniques from trained professionals. The Wellness Fair was an invaluable platform for nurturing a culture of well-being and empowerment within the Farmingdale community, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated.

Behavior at athletic events has declined in recent years, both locally and at the National level, with ejections reaching an all-time high. This has led to several issues, including a shortage of referees willing to take on these roles. Our student-athletes have expressed how this impacts their ability to stay focused while competing. To address this, our Varsity Leaders Club collaborated with the high school video production class under the direction of Ms. Jensly Cella, to create a video that is both funny and serious, aimed at improving behavior and reversing the current trend. The video serves as a reminder that we all have some responsibility on game day.

FHS Sportsmanship Video

HMS Sportsmanship Video