Long Beach Public Schools, in partnership with the Long Beach Booster Club, proudly celebrated the induction of four honorees into the district’s Wall of Fame during a ceremony held on October 11 at Long Beach High School. Established in 1996, the Wall of Fame recognizes alumni and community members whose achievements serve as an inspiration for current students and the entire Long Beach community.

This year’s inductees include the 2005 State Champion Ice Hockey Team, Stefan Chernaski (’88), Jeff Kupferman (’70), and Colonel Estee Pinchasin (’93). All inductees were celebrated for their lasting impact on athletics, public service, education, and leadership.

The 2005 State Champion Ice Hockey Team made school history with their thrilling State Finals victory, overcoming the top-seeded Cheektowaga Warriors. Their resilience and teamwork inspired generations of future players and cemented the program’s place in Long Beach sports legacy.

Stefan Chernaski excelled in football, wrestling, and baseball before embarking on a distinguished 30-year career with the Long Beach Police Department, where he serves as Commanding Officer of the Detective Division. Chernaski has been honored with numerous commendations, including the Nassau County Municipal Police Chiefs Association Distinguished Service Award.

Jeff Kupferman devoted three decades as a beloved school social worker at Long Beach High School, known for his compassion and unwavering dedication to students. His positive influence continues to resonate within the community long after his 2010 retirement.

Colonel Estee Pinchasin has built an extraordinary military career, currently serving as Joint Director of Logistics at the National Security Agency. A former Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Baltimore District, she has led large-scale engineering projects and emergency recovery operations, earning multiple commendations including two Bronze Star Medals and six Meritorious Service Medals.

“Each of these inductees reflects the spirit of excellence and service that defines Long Beach,” said Dr. Jennifer Gallagher, Long Beach Superintendent of Schools. “Their accomplishments inspire our students to dream big and make a difference.”

The ceremony was hosted by Long Beach Board of Trustee Sam Pinto, serving as Master of Ceremonies. The event celebrated not only the 2025 honorees but also the legacy of past inductees whose names grace the Wall of Fame. The Long Beach Wall of Fame is a lasting tribute to the school community’s shared pride and achievement.

Long Beach High School celebrated homecoming under the Friday night lights at Veterans Field on Oct. 10.

Before the game, students, families, and community members gathered for the annual homecoming carnival, sponsored by the student government organizations, in the middle school parking lot. Attendees interacted with club members, played games, and took part in activities that showcased Long Beach pride.

As evening fell, fans filled the bleachers at Veterans Field, decked out in blue and white to cheer on the Marines in their highly anticipated matchup against Calhoun High School. Prior to kickoff, senior football players and cheerleaders were escorted onto the field by family and friends to celebrate their final homecoming appearance.

The stands were alive with energy as the pep band played, and the cheerleaders led the crowd in supporting the team. During halftime, the color guard, pep band, and varsity cheerleading squad delivered lively performances that had the crowd on its feet. The celebration continued with the annual Bulldog Dash, featuring Long Beach youth football players racing across the field and the crowning of this year’s homecoming king, Maurice Dupree, and queen, Julia DiGiorgio.

The evening concluded with Marine football victory of 14-7!

 

Date Added: 10/15/2025