Herald Neighbors

Mayor donates traditional light fixtures to Valley Stream Central High School

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Mayor Ed Fare and Dr. Joseph Pompilio, principal of Central High School, hosted a brief ceremony on Jan. 5 unveiling new, historically accurate lighting fixtures in the high school’s lobby.

“These new lights that we are standing under are a way for me to show appreciation for all that Central High School has meant to me, my family and the entire community of Valley Stream in its storied 88-year history,” Fare said.

He donated the fixtures because of his passion for the school and his love of history. They replaced florescent bulbs installed in the ‘60s to provide more light, which did not match the original art deco style.

“Dr. Pompilio and I searched old photos, records, historical documents and personal anecdotal recollections from alumni — including Central’s own Jerry Calabria, a 1972 graduate and employee here for 45 years — in order to select the best restoration fixtures possible,” Fare said.

Surrounded by members of the community, his family, dignitaries and members of the Valley Stream Historical Society, Fare spoke of his personal affinity for Central High School. His grandfather, William Fare, was a member of the founding Board of Education. Mayor Fare and many of his relatives graduated from Central High School, including his three children.

Fare also surprised Pompilio with a special proclamation from the Village of Valley Stream, for his service to the school community throughout the last 16 years.

“I just want to take this moment to not only thank Joe, but to proclaim Dr. Joseph Pompilio an honorary Valley Streamer,” Fare said, which was met with loud applause.

“This means so much to me,” Pompilio softly replied. “Thank you.”