June 12, 2024 Wantagh

South Bay's Neighbor

STUDENTS RECEIVE ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

On May 28, more than 80 students and their parents gathered for senior awards night, an annual event that recognizes academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, community service and overcoming adversity. Pictured: More than a dozen students received achievement scholarships from the Wantagh 6-12 Association. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District. See story inside.

9:30am-9:00pm

John Theissen Children’s Foundation’s New Family Fun Center Receives $50,000 Grant From PSEG Long Island Wantagh Facility Also Obtained More

The newly opened John Theissen Children’s Foundation Family Fun Center in Wantagh has received a $50,000 Main Street Revitalization grant from PSEG Long Island, along with rebates for its energy efficiency measures totaling $4,085. The grant supports the Fun Center Arcade Room for the nonprofit, which was founded in 1992 to help sick and underprivileged children across Long Island in any capacity possible.

Theissen’s new building on Wantagh Avenue qualified for PSEG Long Island’s Main Street Revitalization grant because the project improved the economic stability and growth in the area. To date, PSEG Long Island has distributed $2 million in grants to 75 businesses and organizations under this program.

“We are thrilled to support the John Theissen Children’s Foundation – an organization that has done so much for so many young people for the past three decades,” said David Lyons, PSEG Long Island interim president and COO.

“John is a visionary who puts his ideas and dreams into practice. This beautiful center is a perfect testament to that. We hope the arcade will provide a safe space to allow kids to have fun and forget about their troubles while they’re playing there.”

“We are so happy that PSEG Long Island is

The Wantagh School District Board of Education has affirmed its confidence in 14 administrators and teachers, as they were awarded tenure at the May 8 meeting.

Superintendent John McNamara, speaking at a ceremony before the meeting to honor the newly tenured staff, noted that many of them began their

Than $4,000 In Energy Efficiency Rebates

involved. It’s a great partnership because PSEG Long Island is here for Long Island and we are here for Long Island kids in the community,” said John Theissen, founder of the John Theissen Children’s Foundation. “They put energy into our homes and businesses, and the Fun Center was created to put energy into children who are sick and need a helping hand. Creating this center would not have been possible without the support of PSEG Long Island and others who care about this cause.”

Along with PSEG Long Island’s economic development grants and programs, the Family Fun Center also qualified for more than $4,000 in energy efficiency rebates for installing LED lighting in and outside the building. This will help Theissen reduce energy costs and consumption, while also decreasing the building’s carbon footprint.

To learn more about grants and rebates offered by PSEG Long Island, visit psegliny.com/ inthecommunity/revitalization and psegliny. com/en/businessandcontractorservices/ businessandcommercialsavings/rebates.

To watch a video tour of the Fun Center, visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=U44xikkszvE.

To learn more about the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, visit jtcf.org.

NEW FAMILY FUN CENTER RECEIVES $50,000 GRANT - The newly opened John Theissen Children’s Foundation Family Fun Center in Wantagh has received a $50,000 Main Street Revitalization grant from PSEG Long Island, along with rebates for its energy efficiency measures totaling $4,085.

Tenure For 14 Outstanding Educators

careers in Wantagh during the height of COVID, and their early interviews were done virtually.

“If they can survive the 2020-21 school year,” he said, “they can survive anything.”

Administrators receiving tenure were Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Stephen Moran and Wantagh

High School Principal

Dr. Paul Guzzone. In addition, 12 teachers from across the district successfully completed their probationary periods:

• Christen Bellucci, science teacher, Wantagh Middle School

• Victoria Briguglio, social studies teacher, Wantagh Middle School

• Jared Burksy, physical

education teacher, Mandalay Elementary School

• Laura Capozzi, art teacher, Forest Lake and Mandalay elementary schools

• Denise Homolka, reading teacher, Mandalay Elementary School

• Alex Martinek, first grade teacher, Mandalay Elementary School

• Christina Mealey, second

grade teacher, Wantagh Elementary School

• Bridget Montario, fifth grade teacher, Mandalay Elementary School

• Danielle Luke, technology specialist

• Christopher Pedota, special education teacher, Forest Lake Elementary School

• Janine Rotondo, family and consumer sciences teacher, Wantagh Middle School

• Cara Wolf, world language teacher, Wantagh High School

“We pride ourselves on having a rigorous hiring process in Wantagh and we have extremely high expectations,” Mr. McNamara added. “We don’t want just good teachers here, we want outstanding teachers.

TENURE FOR 14 OUTSTANDING EDUCATORS - The Wantagh Board of Education awarded tenure to two administrators and 12 teachers on May 8. They were honored a ceremony prior to the meeting. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District

Oil to Gas Conversions

Heating

Heating

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Air Conditioning

Plumbing

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Oil to Gas Conversions

Oil to Gas Conversions

Electric

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Electric

The skyrocketing cost of oil can lead to seriously high heating bills during the winter. If you’re interested in enjoying better heat and lower bills, consider switching from oil to gas heating!

Appliance Repair & Dryer Vent Cleaning

Electric

Our highly trained, extensively experienced, and certified technicians can handle all types of electrical issues in your home.

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When the appliances in your home stop working properly or efficiently, we get your appliances back up & running, fast with repairs and regular dryer vent cleaning!

Appliance Repair & Dryer Vent Cleaning

Plumbing

Duct Cleaning

Duct Cleaning

Universe is your trusted local plumbing service, repair and installation expert! If water runs through it, we fix or install it.

When was the last time you thought about your air ducts? Air ducts are one of the most overlooked parts of a homeowner’s HVAC system.

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Appliance Repair & Dryer Vent Cleaning

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Clean drinking water solutions for your family with filtration systems that will reduce particles & contaminants in your water supply.

Water Filtration

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Dine In • Take Out •

Steaks • Seafood • Pasta Burgers • Salads & More

BRUNCH & LUNCH EVERY DAY Get Out Of The Heat! Have Your

Monday - Friday Happy Hour

1/2 Down Mondays (1/2 Off Any Wine From Menu)

Monday - Thursday Family Meals To Go (See Website For Packages)

Sunday - Thursday 3 Course Pre Fixe Dinner Menu $46 Tuesdays 1/2 Price Burgers

Wednesday On Italy - Pasta Night

Thursday 1/2 Price All Cocktails On Our Menu

Fridays Live Classic Music 7pm-10pm

Every Day Pre Fixe Lunch 2 Courses $24

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Choose 3 Homemade Sides:

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Caprese Pasta Salad

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Package Includes: Dinner rolls, garden salad, plates, forks, spoons, knives, napkins and serving utensils.

• Baked Ziti

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Scholarships And Awards Galore For Wantagh Seniors

William

- The first William D. Desroches Memorial Scholarship went to Alexander Fasano. Presenting the award were William’s mother, Kathryn Walsh, and sister, Lauren Muldowney.

It’s celebration season for Wantagh High School’s Class of 2024. On May 28, more than 80 students and their parents gathered for senior awards night, an annual event that recognizes academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, community service and overcoming adversity.

“The students all have achievements that make Wantagh proud,” said Darlene Thompson, who

organized the event along with Deanne Pepe.

The program included several recognition awards and scholarship presentations. Maylani Lee received the Board of Education Paideia Award for Leadership, Scholarship and Service, which goes to the class valedictorian.

The salutatorian, Catherine Ibrahim, was presented with the Superintendent’s Excelsior Award for

Achievement and Dedication.

The top academic pair also earned the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Excellence.

Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone presented an additional 15 students with the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Achievement.

The Wantagh High School Assistant Principal Award, on behalf of Nick Pappas and Dr. Christopher Widmann, went to Stephen D’Amato and Brighid Smith.

Dozens of students were presented with scholarships from parentteacher organizations including the Wantagh 6-12 Association, PTA Council, Forest Lake, Mandalay and Wantagh elementary PTAs, and SEPTA. Several local organizations including the American Legion, Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Mandalay Homeowners Association, Sons and Daughters of Italy, Wantagh United Teachers, Wantagh United Retirees and Wantagh Aides and Monitors also

presented financial awards.

Four new scholarships were awarded this year. The Forest Lake PTA presented the James Lodato Memorial Scholarship, in honor of a student who died from cancer in 2018, to Jacqueline Mundy. The William D. Desroches Memorial Scholarship, in memory of a student who tragically died in an accident last summer and would have been a junior this year, went

to Alexander Fasano. The Robin LaBohm Memorial Scholarship, named for the former summer recreation director, was presented to Kenneth Annunziata and Rielly Ross, with Kadyn Fiorello receiving the Danielle DeLuca Memorial Scholarship.

Dr. Guzzone commended the recognized seniors for their hard work and perseverance throughout their four years of high

school.

“Our seniors have made a positive impact on our school and community, and showcased their talents in innovative ways,” he said.

“They are here because they consistently gave their best, even when it was difficult. Their resilience and determination are truly commendable.”

Photos courtesy of the Wantagh School District

President’s Award For Outstanding Educational Achievement - Wantagh High School Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone presented the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Achievement during Senior Awards night on May 28.

Valedictorian - Board of Education President Adam Fisher presented the Paideia Award to valedictorian Maylani Lee.

Salutatorian - Salutatorian Catherine Ibrahim received the Superintendent’s Excelsior Award for Achievement and Dedication from John McNamara.

D. Desroches Memorial Scholarship

State Attorney General’s Triple “C” Award

- Dr. Stephanie Scolieri, executive director of human resources, presented the New York State Attorney General’s Triple “C” Award to Madison Smith and Jaiden Diaz in recognition of their character, courage and commitment to improving society.

Achievement Scholarships - More than a dozen students received achievement scholarships from the Wantagh 6-12 Association.

Dr. Thomas Recher

Dr. Andrea Russo

Dr. Jill Diamond

Grilling is a convenient way to impart flavor on various foods and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine along the way. Many people work hard to hone their grilling skills, including many of the individuals on Father’s Day shopping lists. Grilling is an opportunity for dads to

Great Grilling Gifts For Dad

flex their culinary muscles and deliver plenty of flame-licked foods.

Various organizations that specialize in grilling have found that men are twice as likely to grill compared to women. Therefore, gifts that cater to dads’ grilling gusto can be ideal this Father’s Day.

• BBQ grill tools: Every grillmaster needs a quality set of tools to do the job. Ultimate grilling kits often come complete with spatula, fork, tongs, heat-resistant gloves, skewers, and additional grilling gear.

• Digital food thermometer: Cooking food to

the correct internal temperature is vital for safety and flavor. Various food thermometers are on the market, but ones that can remain in the food and then send temperatures back to an app via Bluetooth can keep grillers apprised of the cooking progress minute-by-minute.

• Engraved cutting board: Laser-engraved cutting boards can be customized with special messages or monograms so that Dad will feel extra-special serving up his grilled feast.

• Premium wood chunks: Foods can be enhanced with extra flavor when grillmasters utilize wood during cooking. Put together a gift package with woods like hickory, apple and maple.

• Smoker: Expand Dad’s outdoor setup by buying him a smoker. Smokers enable low-and-slow cooking and are ideal

for making briskets, pork roasts and ribs. Some smokers come as combination models that have a grill on one side and a smoker box on the other.

• Meat grinder: Whether it’s a free-standing appliance or an attachment for a stand mixer, a meat grinder enables a person to make his own custom blends of ground meats to use in burgers or sausages. This allows full control over the quality of the meat

cuts used.

• Personalized grill mat: This type of mat will add a personal touch to the grilling area. These mats look good, and many are made with anti-slip backing to ensure they stay in place. Standing on the mat can be more comfortable than standing on concrete or pavers.

Dad deserves the best for Father’s Day. For men who enjoy manning the grill, grilling accessories can heat up gift-giving.

Memorable Ways To Celebrate Dad This Father’s Day

Dads do a lot for their families, and Father’s Day is the perfect time to acknowledge those efforts. The days when dads would receive a colorful necktie for Father’s Day are largely (and, for fathers,

thankfully) a relic of the past. Modern Father’s Day celebrations tend to involve more careful planning, and the following are some ways to make this year’s day for dads one to remember.

• Take Dad on a tour through his own history. The popularity of genealogy has skyrocketed over the last decade-plus, as various firms have made it easier than ever for individuals

to trace their family histories. If Dad counts himself among the millions across the globe interested in their family histories, moms and kids can work together to create a virtual tour through that history. Present the history as a printed book or as a video, sharing interesting things you learned about Dad’s ancestors but also highlighting key moments in his life. This presentation can be accompanied by a subscription to a genealogy service and a tour of some of Dad’s childhood haunts before the family enjoys brunch or dinner in the neighborhood where Dad grew up.

• Take to the great outdoors. Father’s Day is celebrated in midJune, making the day a perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors (weather permitting). Plan a day

around Dad’s favorite outdoor activity. If Dad is an avid fisherman, book a family outing on a charter boat so Dad can focus on catching fish and not navigating. If Dad loves being in natural settings, camp out the night before Father’s Day so he can wake up to the sound of birds chirping in the crisp morning air. If Dad has a favorite baseball team, take him out to the ballgame so he can soak up some Father’s Day sun.

• Book a private chef. If Dad has a fascination with food, perhaps nothing can make Father’s Day more memorable than a delicious meal served by a private chef. Private chefs will do all the work, giving moms and kids more time to spend with Dad throughout the day, and then the whole family can enjoy a special meal made by

someone whose specialty is crafting delicious dinners. Offerings vary, but many private chefs handle all the cooking and cleaning. Identify Dad’s favorite dish and then look for a chef who specializes in that type of cuisine.

• Appeal to Dad’s inner adventurer. Some Dads may just want to relax on Father’s Day, while others may prefer a more adventurous celebration. If Dad falls into the latter group, book a fun and adventurous activity the whole family can enjoy together. A kayaking trip, a skydiving session, a round of paintball, or even tickets to a rock concert on Father’s Day weekend can connect Dad with his inner adventurer.

There’s no shortage of ways for families to make this Father’s Day one Dad won’t soon forget.

James Ackermann

Shane Adams

James Ambrosino

Chris Andrinopoulos

Kenneth Annunziata

Dean Armstrong

Raghav Arora

Isabella Astaiza

Shawn Bailey

Alexander Barberio

Aidan Bardi

Vito Barretta

John Barry

Isabella Bartilucci

Olivia Belling

Nicholas Benedetto

Joshua Berlin

Justin Bifone

Bethany Boland

Alex Bonanno

Jonathan Bono

Ele herios Boudouris

Kelsey Bowden

Taylor Boyle

Jack Brady

Andrew Braun

Gianna Bruno

Benjamin Burkhardt

Elaina Buscemi

James Byrne

Kevin Byrne

Gina Canestro

omas Carlo

Zachary Clark

Anthony Clem

Joseph Clem

Julia Cocchiola

Samantha Colucci

Amanda Combs

Kyle Conklin

Peter Conlin

omas Conway

Amanda Coppola

Samantha Cortes

Giuseppe D’Amato

Stephen D’Amato

Jack Dankenbrink

Amanda Deedy

Louis DeLuca

Richard DeRupo

Frank Desiderio

Charles DeStefano

Jaiden Diaz

Nicholas Diaz

Sienna Diglio

Dominic DiMatteo

John Michael Divella

Luke Donofrio

Casey Escobar

Vincent Farino

Alexander Fasano

Hunter Fasano

Ryan Ferrara

Anthony Figlozzi

Kadyn Fiorello

Paul Fontana

Jack Friedfertig

Grace Fulton

John Garcia

Nicole Gar nkel

Kendell Garrett

Collin Gercken

Giuliana Giacometti

omas Giglia

Katelyn Gilhuley

William Greaves

Keegan Groom

Madelyn Hartmann

John Paul Haubeil

Christopher Heisler

Sari Heller

Zachary Henglein

Alessandra HermesBevans

Sean Hill-Hotz

John Hodne

Ryan Horowitz

Catherine Ibrahim

Lucas Immel

Mario Innella

Victoria Iodice

Patrick Iskander

Logan Jaramillo

Sierra Kenny

Adrian Khan

Casey Kissinger

Jessica Konecky

Emily Korotki

Kevin Kramer

Sophia Kranis

Mandy Krauss

omas Lagomarsino

Leonard LaRosa

Ramy Latif

omas Leake

Maylani Lee

Meghan Lee

Ti any Lee

Maya Lembo

Melissa Lento

Lauren Lerch

Anthony Lerro

Nyla Lester

Meghan Libby

Eva Loughman

Patrick Lucey

Emilia Lupo

Sarah Magolo

Paige Martin

Jake Martini

Maggie Massari

Emily McGeown

Kristopher McNamee

Jake Mendolia

Ryan Mendolia

Joseph Merro

Michael Michitsch

Arianna Minerva

Tyler Mingozzi

Brooke Minogue

Kristen Mittel

Claire Modica

Andrew Montagano

Joseph Mugavero

Jacqueline Mundy

Kayla Newbert

Emma Nicholas

Brandon Nissino

Alaina O’Brien

Patrick O’Connor

Adrianna Oronges

Daniella Oronges

Gabriella Pangretic

Sophia Pangretic

Joseph Parkinson

Andrew Pascucci

William Pascucci

Katrina Pastore

Courtney Pavick

Sophia Petrocelli

omas Piccirillo

Sophia Piergiovanni

Brandon Proctor

Gina Raiano

Nickolas Razeq

Abigail Reif

Ashley Rice

Rachel Rissland

Bryan Rivera

Joseph Robbins

Congratulations to the Wantagh Class of 2024!

Madeline Rose

Rielly Ross

Justin Roth

Salomon Rothe

Alex Roumbos

Christian Russo

Matthew Russo

Shane Russo

Gabriella Salgado

Ehan Salman

Kameron Samaroo

Darrin Santucci

Jason Sarosy

Jack Scarry

Salvo Scire-Banchitta

Stephanie Sha er

Heather Sheridan

Jaclyn Silverman

Matthew Silverman

Brighid Smith

Madison Smith

Michelle Smith

Alec Spar

Hayden Stein

Junaid Sumro

Jack Tate

Isabella Teresky

Justin Termine

Jonathan Tietz

Ryan Tinoco

James Tullo

Mia Tuniewicz

Sophie Vanikiotis

Jesse Vanorden

Ellie Varrone

Amy Vazquez

Jason Vega

Enrique Vera Lara

Katherine Wehr

Tyler Williams

Kaitlyn Wilson

William Windisch

Isabelle Witte

Brendan Yager

Nicholas Zervos

Nicoletta Zito

Face Facts: These Wantagh Students Are Very Talented

The Roger Rees Awards, which honors excellence in student performance, gave accolades to four Wantagh High School students in its annual New Faces competition.

Sophomore Olivia Magoloff was recognized in theater, and juniors

Alyssa Alexander, Grace Bellia and Lianna Menegalli were honored in the dance category. They represent

more than 10% of the 30 students honored in the region, which includes Long Island, New York City and several Hudson Valley counties. More than 100 students submitted audition videos, which were reviewed by a panel of casting directors.

New Faces Honors for Excellence in Solo Performance is presented in partnership with the Broadway Education Alliance and Casting Society of America. It recognizes students who excel in acting, dancing or singing.

Although New Faces Honors does not require participation in a school production, all four Wantagh students were part of this year’s fall drama production, “Peter and the Starcatcher,” and spring musical, “Jekyll and Hyde.”

Olivia submitted a twominute recording, reading “My Single Mom” from a book of monologues. She has appeared in seven middle school and high school productions as Wantagh student, and this year is enrolled in the Advanced Drama class.

Lianna, who has been dancing since she was

5 years old with private studios, also takes Wantagh High School’s dance class. She self-choreographed a contemporary solo routine for her submission, which was about three minutes long. It incorporated elements of dance she has learned over the years.

Alyssa was thrilled to be recognized for her dedication to dance, which has spanned 14 years. She submitted a three-minute video from a dance competition for New Faces. Her participation in Wantagh’s performing arts program has enhanced her talent, as she has learned how to better integrate emotion into dance.

A competitive dance solo was Gianna’s submission for New Faces Honors. She has been dancing for 12 years and is also taking the high school’s dance class this year.

“The class has definitely helped me improve my dancing abilities,” Gianna said.

The four students are very grateful for all the ways they can get involved in the performing arts at Wantagh High School. There are dance, theater and vocal classes, as well as the fall drama and spring musical. They can also take on leadership opportunities with the middle school musical, Theatre Day and the International Thespian Society.

“There’s definitely a lot of opportunities for us,” Alyssa said.

The students were encouraged to apply for the New Faces competition by their theater teacher, Dr. Kimberly Davis. The four honorees attended an awards ceremony on May 19 at the Gerald W. Lynch Theater at John Jay College. They had two-hour master classes with professionals in their respective areas. Olivia prepared a monologue and received feedback, while Alyssa, Gianna and Lianna learned a dance routine.

It’s Middle School 101 For Wantagh’s Fifth Graders

With middle school just a few months away, fifth graders throughout the Wantagh School District received tips from students who have been there, done that.

Wantagh Middle School

ambassadors visited all fifth grade classes at Forest Lake, Mandalay and Wantagh elementary schools from May 15-21. Topics included academic teaming, class schedules, extracurricular activities

and sports, homework, lockers, lunch and recess, special events and transportation. Each presentation was followed by a question and answer session.

The ambassadors include sixth, seventh and eighth graders, led by advisers Corie Harris and Tracy Zelenetz. They spoke at the former elementary schools for the presentation, which is just one of many steps to ease the transition for the

STUDENT AMBASSADORS - Wantagh Middle School student ambassadors visited Mandalay Elementary School on May 17 to give fifth graders information on their future school. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District

incoming sixth graders. In June, fifth graders will take a tour of the middle school, followed by sixth grade orientation in August.

Ms. Harris said that the goal of the ambassador program is to help fifth graders feel more comfortable when they arrive at their new school in September, and to give them the answers they seek from a student point of view.

life in middle school.

courtesy of the Wantagh School District

STUDENT LIFE IN MIDDLE SCHOOL - Seventh graders Michael Antonette and Katelyn Sutton, both Mandalay graduates, answered questions about student

Photo

THESE STUDENTS ARE VERY TALENTED - Wantagh High School Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone congratulated Roger Rees Awards New Faces competition honorees, from left, Lianna Menegalli, Olivia Magoloff Alyssa Alexander and Grace Bellia. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District

Wisdom Lane Student Earns Outstanding Achievement Award

Wisdom Lane Middle School eighth grader Abigail Jimenez is a recipient of the Outstanding Achievement award from the National Junior Honor Society, recognizing her service, leadership and character.

Abigail is the president of Wisdom Lane’s National Junior Honor Society chapter, for which she has helped organize numerous philanthropic endeavors. Recently, the group worked with the foundation Vinny’s Army, which helps children battling cancer. To benefit the foundation, Abigail led two successful fundraising events: a crazy hat day during which students brought in $1 to wear a hat of their choice, and Wheel of Luck, which had students donating funds for a chance to spin a wheel of various prizes. The National Junior Honor Society also works to stock Wisdom Lane’s Jan Friedman Food Pantry to assist local families in need.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

WINNER - Wisdom Lane Middle School student Abigail Jimenez is a recipient of the Outstanding Achievement award from the National Junior Honor Society. Photo courtesy Levittown Public Schools

Abigail was nominated for the award by her peers in the honor society. Her submission included an essay discussing the theme of character and a list of her service hours and leadership roles.

“It felt very nice to receive this award,” Abigail said. “My hope is that it paves the way for more opportunities to serve the community at Wisdom.”

East Broadway Students Perform Spring Concert

Senior Athletes Commit To Colleges And Universities

Fifteen senior athletes in the Levittown Public School District from Division Avenue and General Douglas MacArthur high schools have signed their commitment to play for their future colleges and universities.

Senior athletes gathered with family members and coaches to celebrate the occasion. Each student signaled their commitment to continue to play their respective sport at their next educational destination.

From Division Avenue, athletes included:

• Elizabeth Albrecht – Wagner College, cheerleading

• Thomas Bonsignore –Manhattan College, track and field

• Cody Brush – St. Joseph’s University, basketball

• Sam Bultron – Buffalo State University, women’s wrestling

• William David – Molloy University, soccer

• Evangeline Guerra

– Hofstra University, cheerleading

• Shane Moore –University of Southern Maine, wrestling

• Nicholas Rohman

– Elmira College, volleyball

• Caden Siegel – Nassau Community College, baseball

• Christian Varela – St.

Thomas Aquinas College, baseball

From MacArthur, athletes included:

• Nolan Tordy – Marywood University, soccer

• Frank Hespe – Hartwick College, football

• Matthew Calvo – Molloy University, lacrosse

• Ryan Fitzgerald –Geneseo University, lacrosse

• Brody Faivre – Maritime College, lacrosse

The district congratulates these talented athletes and wishes them success in their future endeavors.

DIVISION AVENUE HIGH SCHOOL - Seven athletes from Division Avenue High School signed letters of intent to play at their future colleges and universities. Three students were not present.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

GENERAL DOUGLAS MACARTHUR HIGH SCHOOL - Five athletes from General Douglas MacArthur High School signed letters of intent to play at their future colleges and universities.

EAST BROADWAY STUDENTS PERFORM SPRING CONCERT - Students in the East Broadway Elementary School band performed for the school community under the guidance of music teacher Megan Bastos on May 16. Photo courtesy Levittown Public Schools

A Cold Beverage Ideal For Summer

Summer is a season synonymous with relaxation. Sitting poolside or relaxing on a patio with a cold beverage is a great way to escape the daily grind and make the most of a warm evening, and the following recipe for “Summer Cantaloupe” from Andrew Schloss’ “Homemade Liqueurs and Infused Spirits” (Storey Publishing) is tailor-made for summer nights.

Summer Cantaloupe

Makes about 1 quart

1 fifth (31/4 cups) 80-100 proof vodka

4 cups cantaloupe chunks

1 cup Simple Syrup (see below)

Finely grated zest of 2 lemons

Directions:

1. Muddle the vodka, cantaloupe and lemon zest with a wooden spoon in a half-gallon jar. Stir to moisten everything.

2. Seal the jar and put it in a cool, dark cabinet until the liquid smells and tastes strongly of melon, four to seven days.

3. Strain the mixture with a mesh strainer into a clean quart jar. Do not push on the solids to extract more liquid.

4. Stir in the Simple Syrup.

5. Seal and store in a cool, dark cabinet. Use within one year.

Simple Syrup

Makes 3 cups

2 1/4 cups water

21/4 cups granulated cane sugar

Directions:

Mix the water and sugar in a small saucepan until the sugar is all moistened. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir to make sure the sugar is completely dissolved, then remove from the heat and let cool. Refrigerate for up to three months.

Summer is a great time to enjoy recreational activities that take advantage of the great outdoors. This year summer arrives on June 20 with the summer solstice, which features the most hours of daylight of any day for the entire year. Celebrants who want to usher in another summer of fun in the sun can embrace these ideas for commemorating the start of summer.

• Watch the sunrise. Get up early and watch the sun come up on the longest day of the year. Then be sure to catch the sunset to enjoy every minute of daylight.

• Host a cookout. Memorial Day, Canada Day and Independence Day get most of the barbecue glory this time of year. But there’s nothing that says the first day of summer shouldn’t be a reason to

Fun Ways To Celebrate The Summer Solstice

gather friends and family for a cookout. June 20 falls on a Thursday this year, so the solstice provides the perfect excuse to take a four-day weekend and celebrate the official arrival of summer.

• Light a campfire. Traditional Mid-summer’s Eve/summer solstice celebrations featured bonfires. Hold on to the tradition by gathering people around a campfire or backyard firepit. S’mores make the perfect complement to a campfire scene.

• Grab some ice cream. Cool off on the summer solstice by visiting a nearby ice cream shop and indulge in a sundae or triple-decker cone.

• Go on a nature hike. Enjoy the great outdoors with a relaxing hike through a park or nature trail.

• Participate in a beach clean-up. Make a beach trip even more enjoyable by signing up for a cleanup to clear the sand of litter. Organize an impromptu beach cleanup session either solo or with some like-minded friends.

• Pick fresh fruit. Many berries come into season in the summer. Head to a nearby pick-your-own farm and grab fresh fruit to enjoy right away or utilize your pickings in recipes.

• Plant a flower garden. Clean up garden beds or go to the nursery and grab some colorful annuals to spruce up areas around the yard.

The summer solstice is an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of summer and all the fun that comes with it.

Gift Ideas For Graduates

The class of 2024 soon will be donning their caps and gowns and receiving their diplomas. After commencement ceremonies, graduation parties will soon follow. For party guests, that means finding the right gifts for grads. Some high school graduates will continue their studies at colleges and universities. Others may pursue

careers in various trades. Still, some graduates may be ready to enter the workforce right away. No matter the direction, these gifts can treat graduates to something special.

Streaming TV device

While it's certainly possible to watch favorite shows or films on mobile devices, viewing is that much clearer on televisions. Rather than graduates having to invest in cable television wherever they go, streaming devices like AppleTV or Roku are portable, which means they can be used at home, in a dorm room or on vacation.

Secured credit card

Individuals typically are eligible to apply for credit cards once they reach age 18, which is the age most students are when they graduate high school. Credit cards are one method of establishing solid credit, so it can be beneficial for a teen to have one. But it can be challenging for individuals with no credit histories to get approval. A secured card, according to CapitalOne, is a credit card that requires money deposited with the credit

card issuer in order to open the account. This security deposit is held by the issuer as long as the account is open. Often the security deposit is the same as the credit limit. Gift-givers can help establish secured cards for grads by providing the funds for the security deposits.

Framed memorabilia

Whether a graduate was a star athlete or a premier member of the marching band, gift-givers can provide special memories of time spent in school. Frame ticket stubs, sports jerseys, show programs, or other memorabilia that commemorates a graduate's glory days at their alma mater.

Travel accessories

Graduates may want to go on a trip before they take the next step in their lives. Quality travel gear is a worthy investment. Select luggage that won’t exceed airport carry-on limits so

grads can cut the baggage check lines when they dart away to locales near or far. Carry-on bags also fit easily in bus cargo areas or in the trunks of cars. Pair the gifts with standard or digital luggage tags.

Wireless

earbuds or headphones

Upgrade grads’ audio with the newest wireless earbuds or headphones. This way they can take them to the gym or use them to listen to shows or music while sharing spaces with others, including college roommates.

Smartphone wallet case

Teenagers are seldom without their phones. A smartphone wallet case enables graduates to stash IDs, credit or debit cards and some cash into specially designed pockets built into the phone cases. This keeps all essentials in one spot.

A Summertime Staple

Peaches are a summertime staple. This sweet fruit is at home in desserts, salads, on top of cereals, and all on its own. Peaches thrive in warm climates with lots of sunlight. Peaches are native to northwest China, and they are believed to have been domesticated and cultivated since 2000 B.C. Later, they were widely grown in the region known as Persia, which is now called Iran. As a result, the scientific name for the peach species is Prunus persica. China continues to be the world’s largest peach producer, followed by Spain, Italy, Greece, and the United States. In the United States, even though Georgia is known as “The Peach State,” it is not the country’s biggest producer of peaches. Georgia is beat out by California and South Carolina. New Jersey also produces its fair share of peaches. Nectarines and peaches are similar fruits. In fact, nectarines are a type of peach. Peaches have a dominant allele for the fuzzy skin, while nectarines have a recessive allele for that fuzz. In regard to flavor, peaches and nectarines are very similar, but some experts say nectarines are slightly sweeter and firmer. According to the College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, nectarines also have considerably more potassium and twice as much vitamin A as peaches.

Long Island Children’s Museum (LICM) Unveils New Community Mural

The Long Island Children's Museum (LICM) unveiled a brandnew 1,100-sq-ft public art piece that will serve as the fresh new "face" of the Museum for current and future generations of Long Islanders. Created by artist Viktoriya Basina along with Long Island children during a series of "paint parties" at the Museum over the course of three months, the collaborative process included community conversations with visitors to capture images and themes that reflect the Museum, its audience and Long Island. Feedback was shared during design review workshops before finally the process of painting the panels that make up the mural took place. The installation itself took five days.

Museum president Erika S. Floreska said, "We asked people to share their thoughts on what community means to them

and that's what we wanted the mural to convey. We're incredibly happy with the results of this collaborative community effort."

The unveiling event was attended by local officials including Congressman Anthony D'Esposito (4th CD) along with NYS Assemblyman Edward P. Ra; Nassau County Legislator Thomas McKevitt, Town of North

Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Michael Reinhart, Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums.

The public art piece is part of LICM's Community Voices Take Shape grant supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional support from Robert & Toni Bader Charitable Foundation.

July Fourth Celebrations Across The United States

July Fourth is a day of celebration across the United States. The Fourth of July commemorates American independence and millions of people throughout the country celebrate the day with family and friends. Communities host their own celebrations on July Fourth. Some celebrations are relatively simple, while others are must-see events for any patriot. The following are some of the more noteworthy Fourth of July celebrations that will entertain millions in person or on television this year.

• Washington, D.C.: It should come as no surprise that the capital of the United States hosts an especially aweinspiring Fourth of July celebration. In addition to a concert featuring well-known musical acts on the National Mall, the festivities in the nation’s capital are marked by a fireworks extravaganza that will impress anyone seeking a unique way to celebrate the holiday.

• Boston: Estimates suggest roughly half a million individuals take in the Fourth of July festivities in Boston. A hotbed of patriotism during the American Revolutionary War, Boston embraces that spirit each July with a celebration on the city’s Charles River. The Boston celebration spans two days and includes a popular performance by the Boston Pops.

• Philadelphia: Another city with deep ties to the American Revolutionary War, Philadelphia celebrates the nation’s independence against the backdrop of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is one of the city’s more notable and recognizable buildings. Individuals along both sides of the Delaware River can view the impressive fireworks display.

• San Diego: Notable celebrations of American independence are not exclusive to the eastern portion of the country. The Big Bay Boom fireworks

over San Diego Bay can inspire any patriot, while across the bay on the island of Coronado celebrants can enjoy a parade and family-friendly concert before settling in for a fireworks show in the evening.

• New York, NY: Perhaps no Fourth of July fireworks celebration is as wellknown as the one hosted by the Big Apple. Typically taking place on the East River, the New York City fireworks display can be viewed from various points throughout the city. Individuals looking for a unique way to take in the show can book a spot on a boat sailing in New York harbor.

There’s no shortage of Fourth of July celebrations. In addition to these noteworthy spots to celebrate American independence, the cities of Portland, Ore.; Chicago; San Antonio, Tex.; and Atlantic City, N.J. host their own unique celebrations.

LICM UNVEILS NEW COMMUNITY MURAL - Pictured: (Center) artist Viktoriya Basina, LICM president Erika S. Floreska, along with Congressman D’Esposito and other local officials. Photo courtesy of Russell Lippai

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