Saladino Declares October 8 ‘Beatrice Ferrari Day’ and ‘Gina Pellettiere Day’
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Lou Imbroto and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato joined with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, state and local officials, and Farmingdale School District Superintendent Paul Defendini to host a special remembrance ceremony and street dedication in honor of fallen Farmingdale educators Gina Pellettiere and Beatrice “Bea” Ferrari, who tragically passed away on September 21, 2023, when traveling on a charter bus on a school trip with the Farmingdale High School Marching Band.
“These two amazing women were true role models and the inspiration for what our futures will bring,” Saladino said. “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 the saying goes, ‘Once a Daler, always a Daler,’ a legacy that we will forever celebrate. When students, faculty, residents and visitors pass by 10th Street and 11th Street along Woodward Parkway, they will forever remember that two inspirational educators selflessly gave their all in doing what they loved – which was instilling knowledge, determination, curiosity, dedication, love and hope in the young people they educated.”
Hundreds of residents gathered on the football field at Farmingdale High School, listening to stories from the families of both educators, and enjoying heartfelt performances from the marching band. Supervisor Saladino proclaimed October 8 as “Beatrice Ferrari Day” and “Gina Pellettiere Day” in the Town of Oyster Bay.
Ferrari was a dedicated global studies teacher for 36 years, 32 of them in the Farmingdale School District. Despite retirement, she remained involved, joining the high school marching band every year at band camp. Her kindness, compassion and selflessness earned her the admiration of students, colleagues and friends alike. Pellettiere, known as “Ms. P” to her students, was the longtime band program director at Farmingdale High School. She was not just the leader of the band, she was a leader in life, making everyone in her orbit feel seen and valued. She led her young musicians with an infectious personality that created an atmosphere of growth and inclusion. Her profound impact on students through her passion for music and teaching is immeasurable.