In a very moving ceremony attended by several hundred people, Plainedge High School dedicated its 9/11 Memorial Garden to the memory of five Plainedge graduates who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The graduates honored are Michael Costello, class of '92, Patrick J. Lyons, class of '85, Kathy Mazza, class of '73, Rocco Medaglia, class of '70, and Andrew Zucker, class of '91.

The Memorial Garden, located in front of the school, consists of various evergreen shrubs and five red maple trees representing each of the graduates. Interspersed throughout the garden are yellow mums representing hope for the future, red and white flowers representing school colors, as well as several black iron benches designed for sitting and reflecting. A strikingly beautiful bronze plaque, with the image of the World Trade Center and the names of the graduates, is affixed to a brick wall in the center of the garden. The flag flying over the memorial will be lit from sundown to sunup.

In his opening remarks, Principal Robert Amster noted that the idea for the memorial originated with the Class of 2001 who wanted to honor community members who were victims and heroes of the September 11 tragedy. They gave the first donation for the creation of the memorial as their graduating gift to the school. The class of '92, other classes, and various school clubs working with the memorial committee raised over $10,000 last year for the memorial. Additional donations were also received from individuals and businesses. The garden was designed and installed by Rick Rothwell Landscape & Design, Inc.

The ceremony was attended by family members of each of the graduates, politicians, members of the North Massapequa Fire Department, faculty, staff, students and community members. Speakers included Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John A. Richman, Student Council President Peter DiSilvio, and Principal Amster. The high school band and chorus performed.

Prior to unveiling the plaque, Dr. Richman offered his condolences and deepest sympathy to the families of the victims. "It is our hope that this memorial may bring you some peace and consolation, knowing that it was the work of students who, like your children, walked the halls of this high school."