Parents, Kids & Community Seasons 2024 - Edition One
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With extensive experience in Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and the Hamptons, her expertise spans single-family homes, new construction, new development, condos, vacant land, short sales, and foreclosures. Licensed in NY and Florida, Anne e is active in both markets and frequently assists relocation clients in markets nationwide. Now joined by team partner Gregg Cannizzaro and backed by the deep resources and global reach of Douglas Elliman, she is thrilled to expand her services to all her clients, no ma er where they want to live.
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Summer isn't over yet, but parents and children are certainly getting ready for the upcoming school year. We have you covered with informative back to school themed editorial pieces, along with other pieces that will spark your interest in having some more end of summer fun! We look forward to bringing you many more upcoming issues, but until then, enjoy the rest of the season and have a fun and safe 2024-2025 school year!
Did You Know?
Volunteering is a great way for individuals to strengthen their communities, but it also can be a unique way for individuals to improve their own overall happiness. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies examined 70,000 participants, each of whom received surveys that asked questions regarding their volunteering habits and mental health. The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and gave their overall health higher ratings.
Did You Know?
Scholastic sports can teach student-athletes valuable lessons they take with them for a lifetime, all the while engaging them in the thrill of competition. High school studentathletes may aspire to continue their playing careers in college, but data from the National Collegiate Athletic Association indicates only a small fraction of young people will get that chance. The NCAA reports that roughly eight million students currently participate in high school sports in the United States, while less than half a million athletes compete at the collegiate level. Football is among the most popular sports at both the high school and college level. Though more than one million student-athletes compete in high school football, data from a recent NCAA Sports Sponsorship and Participation Rates Report indicates that just a little more than 73,000 played college football during that school year.
How Families Can Get Ready For A New School Year
Childrenwill soon be trading in the chimes of neighborhood ice cream trucks for the bells of school as summer vacation gives way to the start of a new academic year. August through September is prime back-toschool season, with children all across the country stocking their backpacks and shopping for new school wardrobes. There is more to getting ready for the start of school than making sure pencils are sharpened and tablets are charged. Parents and children can work together to ensure the transition back to the classroom is as seamless as possible.
Adjust sleep and wake times
Summer vacation often means letting loose of schedules for a while, and that may translate into later-than-normal bedtimes and rising a little later in the morning. Everyone in the household will have to reacquaint themselves with schedules that ensure kids get to school on time. A few weeks before the first day of school, start incrementally going to bed at an earlier time and start waking up earlier each morning. Try to plan out the increments so that by the time the last few days of summer vacation wind down, the family is on target with a waking schedule that mirrors the school schedule.
Prep for school lunches
Children and adults can work together to map out healthy eating options for school lunch. Many school districts have lunch plans that can be purchased through an online account. Participating students simply enter a number or swipe a code at checkout. School lunches are built to be nutritionally diverse and have options that even picky eaters will like.
Acclimate to being around people
Although summer vacation may involve trips that bring children in contact with other people, it may have been some time since they’ve spent five or more hours per day around 20 to
30 people their age. It may take a transition period to get used to being around a bunch of peers, so families can visit places where there tend to be crowds of kids, such as zoos, aquariums, parks, and trampoline centers. These can be lowpressure locations to dust off social skills.
Know the route or plan for school transportation
Students may be driven independently, ride the school bus, walk or bike, or carpool with others to and from school. Families can establish plans so that getting to and from school is not something kids need to worry about. Practice routes and timing, taking into consideration that when schools open there will be much more traffic. Parents can reassure children that there will be a learning curve, but all of the kinks generally get worked out during the first week.
Avoid “summer slide”
Most students don’t want to think about studying, homework and testing while on summer break, but it can be beneficial to stay current on some lessons. Summer slide refers to the loss of some of the learning achieved during the previous school year over the summer break. Some experts say summer slide is overstated, but it can’t hurt for students to refresh their memories on some math, science and language arts concepts over break so that they will be ready to hit the books when the new school year begins.
School is right around the corner, and families should get ready for the routine and needs that go with the academic year.
Did You Know?
TheOregon-based Gap Year Association notes that the exact number of students who take a gap year between high school and college is unknown. However, an overwhelming majority of students who have taken a gap year reported positive experiences. In a collaborative survey with the Institute for Survey Research at Temple University, the GYA Research Committee found that 92 percent of gap year alumni reported gaining life experiences and experiencing personal growth during their year away from formal schooling. Forty-four percent of respondents indicated they used a gap year to explore career options, while 41 percent indicated they learned a new language during their gap year.
This Tasty Meal Gets Kids Cooking In The Kitchen
Gettingchildren to try new foods is not always easy. Kids have a tendency to be picky when it comes to the foods they eat, and many youngsters are reluctant to try all but the most familiar foods. Getting kids to embrace a variety of foods may take time, but such a noble effort can produce successful results. Dining on different foods helps to develop the palate and also ensures that children are being exposed to an array of nutrients and vitamins that are essential for growing bodies.
One way to help children be more receptive to new foods is to involve them when choosing the menu and preparing meals. A youngster who went shopping, picked out foods and assisted in the kitchen may be more eager to try the final product than one who has not.
Mexican-inspired dishes may be one way to put new foods on the dinner table. “Cheddar Beef Enchiladas” from “Casseroles, Slow Cooker & Soups” by Taste of Home editors (RDA Enthusiast Brands) features familiar ingredients combined with some more exotic flavors. Enchiladas can appeal to picky eaters.
Cheddar Beef Enchiladas
Yield: 2 casseroles (5 to 6 enchiladas each)
1 pound ground beef
1 envelope taco seasoning
1 cup water
2 cups cooked rice
1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
10 to 12 flour tortillas (8 inches), warmed
1 jar (16 ounces) salsa
1 can condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
Directions:
In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer, pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Stir in rice. Cook and stir until liquid is evaporated. Spread about 2 tablespoons of refried beans, 1⁄4 cup of the beef mixture and 1 tablespoon cheese down the center of each tortilla; roll up. Place seam-side down in two greased 13x9x2-inch baking dishes.
Combine salsa and soup; pour down the center of the enchiladas. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake one casserole, uncovered, at 350 F for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted. Cover and freeze remaining casserole for up to 3 months.
To use frozen casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Cover and bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Uncover; bake 5 to 10 minutes longer, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Demand Is Rising For Career And Technical Education
Afour-year college degree is not necessarily the next step for students after they graduate from high school. The rising cost of college tuition has revitalized interest in career and technical education (CTE).
According to data from the National Student Clearinghouse, enrollment at community colleges rose 2.6 percent in 2023 compared with a year earlier, enhanced by a 16 percent surge at schools with a focus on CTE. Similarly, a survey by Edge Research commissioned by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation found on-the-job training seems to be more valuable to both high school students and non-enrolled graduates than a four-year degree, with 83 percent of the former stating it is excellent or good in value, compared to 80 percent for college. Favor for CTE schools is up 63 percent from the previous year.
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges says CTE has evolved from a traditional vocational school model to one that offers academics and skills for higher education and careers in skilled trades, technology and applied sciences. Demand for this type of education continues to grow, with various state superintendents and directors of CTE programs indicating they can only accommodate a fraction of the applicants they get for CTE programs.
“Since 2004, Vermont has seen a decrease in its overall student population, however we have had an increase in CTE students in that same period,” says Jay
Ramsey, Vermont State Director for Career and Technical Education.
While a traditional four-year university might be the right path for some individuals, CTE has proven ideal for many others. New York City schools Chancellor David Banks has said it’s a sentiment being shared across the nation, that there is another way and another track for students to be successful. CTE may help students get more excited about school and view themselves in careers they may not otherwise be exposed to.
The National Center for Education Statistics puts the average annual tuition for a four-year degree at a private institution in the United States at roughly $35,000 (and public at approximately $10,000. Room and board costs also must be considered, and those can increase the overall cost by a significant amount. The average tuition for a trade school can be around $17,600 a year, but rates vary based on the trade. Most of the CTE schools do not require students to reside on campus, which helps to save money.
Exploring the Career and Technical Education route can be highly satisfying and financially rewarding. Careers are diverse, and students can find a track that enables them to start training and working by investing less than they would if they were to attend a traditional college.
Did You Know?
Interest in career and technical education (CTE) programs continues to grow as students look for alternatives to the high tuition costs and rising student loan debt associated with four-year degree programs. CTE certifications and degrees typically do not cost as much as four-year degrees, but still provide students with a valuable education in fields that are in high demand. In fact, certain trades are among the highestpaid occupations. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, here is the average salary expected and grow rate of these five high-paying trade jobs expected from 2022 to 2032.
1. Ultrasonographer: $131,161 per year; 10 percent job growth rate
Neighborhood News: United Way Of Long Island Raises Over $750,000
UnitedWay of Long Island welcomed over 600 attendees, including individuals, corporations, labor unions and organizations to its annual UNITED IN PURPOSE Celebration. Thanks to the generosity of Presenting Sponsor Bethpage Federal Credit Union and other supporters, the event raised over $750,000, making it one of the largest yearly philanthropic fundraisers on Long Island.
The event, held on June 11, 2024 at the Crest Hollow Country Club honored leaders who have demonstrated continued generosity and commitment to advance the organization’s mission, especially in the area of workforce development. Honorees included Sands New York – Corporate Impact Champion; Haugland Group – Workforce Investment Champion; and the Sheet Metal Workers Local 28 – Labor Champion.
Theresa A. Regnante, President & CEO of United Way of Long Island, when addressing the attendees remarked on the impact that the 2024 award recipients, as well as all of the generous supporters have made: “What a pleasure to celebrate this day with all of you! Heal the World…Make it a Better Place. Everyone pulling in the same direction. You truly have the heart, compassion and willingness to be a part of making our world here on Long Island a better place for thousands of families.”
Honorees:
Sands New York - Corporate Impact Champion. Ron Reese, Senior Vice President of Global Communications and Corporate Affairs at Sands New York, said, “United Way has given Sands great counsel and insight on how to engage with this community. We are very humbled to accept this award. We know what it means in this community to be recognized by United Way.” Sands New York enters the region to make key
investments and impact the futures of young people, allowing them opportunities in education and careers based on Long Island in the building development and hospitality industries.
Haugland Group - Workforce Investment Champion. Billy Haugland II, Chief Executive Officer of Haugland Group, said, “We are grateful to United Way for breaking down barriers to work in our industry. The power of our partnership demonstrates a cascading effect on the resiliency of Long Island, creating economic opportunity hyperlocal in our communities while introducing cleaner, green energy, improving life for all Long Islanders.” Haugland Group is making a difference in people's lives for generations to come through energy and career opportunities.
Sheet Metal Workers LOCAL 28 - Labor Champion. Brian Nigro, Business Representative for the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 28, said, “Thank you, United Way for this opportunity to display what my local does and what the trades can do. I found in my time in this trade that it's really not about the metal that keeps us all working, but it's about the partnerships and relationships you build over the years and helping other people to move up through the ranks.” The organization works tirelessly with United Way of Long Island to offer career training and placement opportunities within union labor, thereby supporting the local economy.
UNITED IN PURPOSE Celebration leading Sponsors include: Presenting Sponsor Bethpage Federal Credit Union, Premier Veterans Sponsor Sands New York, Excellence in Education Sponsor Suffolk Transportation Service, Inc., Workforce Investment Sponsor Haugland Group LLC, Health & Wellness Innovators Sponsor MagnaCare, Diamond Sponsor National Grid, Platinum Sponsors Flushing Bank and USI. Gold Sponsors AT & T Services, Inc., PSEG Long Island, Sheet Metal Workers of NYC & LI, and Local Union 28. Energy Efficiency Sponsor Bird Bus Sales. Silver Sponsors Bank of America, Deloitte, EMCOR, Eversource, Island Wide Remodeling, Leal Peterbilt of NYC LLC, Main Street Financial Group, Newsday, Nawrocki Smith, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C., Sunrise Power Solutions, TriState Capital Bank, and UOTech. Bronze Sponsors M&T Bank, MSC Industrial Supply Co., Star Group LP, TWU Local 252, Webster Bank, and Wegmans.
To learn more about the UNITED IN PURPOSE Celebration, all its sponsors, and other ways to support United Way of Long Island, visit www.unitedwayli.org/UIP2024.
Family-Friendly Destinations
Long Island is home to many destinations that the entire family can enjoy. You can find an array of attractions including water-sport activities, animal encounters, museum exhibits, world-renowned beaches and unique entertainment, along with many others. Being together with loved ones and creating lasting memories is priceless, so where will you head for your next family adventure? Here's a few places we suggest you head to!
Montauk Point Lighthouse Montauk
Head to the world-famous Montauk Point Lighthouse, located at the very tip of eastern Long Island. This lighthouse, commissioned by President George Washington in 1792, is one of the best-known and most-beloved icons of Long Island. It was the first lighthouse to be built in New York, and is the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in our country. In 2012 it was named a National Historic Landmark, one of only 12 lighthouses to be so honored.
Harbes Family Farm Mattituck
The Harbes Family has been farming for over 13 generations and their farms have evolved into North Fork destinations where families can enjoy anything from fresh-picked corn to award-winning wines. Last month marked the 35th anniversary of the founding of Harbes Family Farm, located in Mattituck. Now through October, you can visit to enjoy a musical hayride tour, pig races, kid’s activities, wine tasting and much more! Visit their website for other offerings.
Old Westbury Gardens
Old Westbury
Old Westbury Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They welcome visitors of all ages for guided tours of Westbury House, in-depth tours of the formal gardens, children’s programs and events, family programs, museum exhibitions and much more. Spend the day with your loved ones at this special place! Visit their website for a calendar of events and much more.
Tips For A Memorable Labor Day Weekend
LaborDay weekend is widely considered the unofficial swan song of summer. Though millions of children return to school prior to Labor Day weekend, the final holiday of summer still marks an ending to the season of relaxation and a return to the hustle and bustle of life when the temperatures dip and schedules fill up.
Perhaps because Labor Day has become synonymous with the end of summer, many people look to make the weekended preceding the holiday as fun as possible. People with such intentions can keep these tips in mind as they seek to plan a memorable Labor Day weekend this year.
• Wake up early if you intend to travel. Labor Day weekend should be memorable for all the right reasons and traffic is not one of them. A recent survey from the vacation planning experts at The Vacationer found that roughly 148 million people planned to travel over Labor Day weekend in 2023, which makes the three-day period a particularly busy time to be on the road or in the air. If you intend to fly this Labor Day weekend, try to book an early morning flight to reduce the risk of delays. If you’re driving, hitting the road before sunrise, particularly if you’re traveling a long distance, can help you avoid traffic jams.
• Plan the weekend. It can be tempting to fly by the seat of your pants come Labor Day weekend, but it’s still best to book excursions and even dinner reservations in advance. The popularity of Labor Day weekend and its status as the unofficial end of summer compels many
people to get up and go over the three-day period, so theme parks, water parks, restaurants, and other attractions may be all booked in advance. Purchase tickets and make reservations months in advance to ensure you aren’t left with little to do and/or nothing to eat come Labor Day weekend.
• Create a backup plan. Ideally the weather will cooperate and Labor Day celebrants will be able to spend the entire weekend outdoors if they so desire. But weather is unpredictable, so it pays to create a backup plan in advance. If you’re traveling for the weekend, look around for indoor entertainment spaces to spend the weekend if the weather is uncooperative. If you’re planning a backyard barbecue at home, arrange for some indoor activities or pick a rain date and let guests know. If the party is scheduled for the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, a Sunday rain date might work.
• Go with a summer theme. Even if the kids are already back in school and your summer family vacation is a distant memory, that’s all the more reason to revive the spirit of summer one last time. If hosting at home, a Hawaiian luau theme complete with a pig roast or a final summer pool party is a great way to send summer off before welcoming fall into the fold. Encourage guests to don summer attire and revive your summer playlist to get guests in the mood. If you’re traveling for the weekend, pick a sunny, sandy destination so you can squeeze every last drop out of summer.
Labor Day weekend marks the perfect time to send summer off with a bang. Some pre-weekend planning can ensure everyone has a memorable final few days of summer.
