Before a gymnasium packed with exuberant and adoring fans, the Farmingdale Tornadoes took the court at Farmingdale High School to face the world-renowned Harlem Wizards for "Farmingdale Jumps," an evening of athletic amusement sponsored by the Farmingdale Community Summit Council. The Tornadoes proved worthy of their community's support, nor did the Wizards disappoint. With slam dunks, trick passing, thumping music and a whole lot of humor, the pros wowed and dazzled Dalers.

It wasn't the score that made "Jumps" worth the price of admission - although the Tornadoes did justifiably delight in hitting three-pointers against the show basketball team. The fun was found in the sportsmanship on both benches. The event gave Farmingdale School District staffers and residents a chance to feel like pro athletes. As the 30-plus members of the Tornado squad were introduced, the crowd - comprised mostly of students and parents - rooted and cheered. Green and white pompoms and handmade signs pledging support for the Farmingdale players spotted the bleachers.

Youngsters were wide-eyed as they watched the show and Northside second-grade Jayne Guarino, who was wearing Wizards purple, got a little special attention as she took to center court for a dance with the Wizards and was given a team basketball.

The PTA pitched in to coordinate ticket sales for this event. The Farmingdale Community Summit Council is a partnership of more than 50 organizations within the Farmingdale School District, committed to showcasing the many benefits of the community. Headed by Tom Sabellico, the council is also involved in the ongoing "Farmingdale Reads" program, which encourages all area residents of all ages to read books on a similar topic throughout the month of February. The council is also organizing "Farmingdale, A Community of Opportunity," a community-wide event scheduled for March 6 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Howitt Middle School. For more information, call 454-0021.