August 16, 2023 Wantagh

PRESIDENT

Cathy McGrory Powell

Universe Home Services

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Karen E. Lofgren

Resident Member

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Marilynne Rich

Social Media Consultant

FINANCIAL SECRETARY

Anthony Avena, CPA

A & F Accounting Services, Inc.

RECORDING SECRETARY

Judy Cunningham

Resident Member

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

Matthew Kondrup

Matty K Travel/Castle Vacations

TRUSTEES

Jorge Aviles

Wantagh American Legion Pipe Band

Chris Brown

Mid-Island Medical Supplies

Connie Conway

Resident Member

Rosemarie DeMaio

Mama’s Custom Cookies

Michael J. Duignan, RA

Long Island Architecture Studio, DPC

Laura Dupkin Memisha

Realty Advisors, Inc.

Elizabeth Greco

Pies-On Wheels

Ira Reiter

The Barking Biscuit

August 2023

Dear Friends,

We hope you are enjoying your summer. The Wantagh Chamber of Commerce has been in full swing from numerous ribbon cuttings for our new local businesses, our on-going summer 50/50 raffle, concerts at Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall, fabulous dining, and our free movie night at Wantagh Park which takes place every Wednesday in August.

As summer winds down and we begin to get ready for Labor Day Weekend and Back to School, please remember to shop local and support our Wantagh businesses. BBQ packages and catering are always a huge help for the holiday weekend, so why not check out Iavarone Bros, Salpino’s, the Meat Grinder or Jones Beach Delicatessen to name a few. Do not wait until the last minute to start Back to School shopping! We have many fashion options at our member boutiques. Stop into DCD Boutique, Enigma Fashion Boutique or Uniquely Yours for trendy styles. If you are looking for sportswear, sneakers, cleats, or backpacks, visit Lifestyles Sports. Get a fresh look at any of our member salons and barbershops or revitalize by visiting some our wellness members. Throwing a party or need balloons for Back to School celebrations? Sky High Balloon NY and Balloons by Lou can help! We also have several florists if you need floral arrangements or bouquets. Take advantage of the warm summer nights and walk to one of our fabulous eateries, get some dessert or meet up with friends.

Please visit our website directory to see a current list of our members that can help you. We do appreciate everyone who shops and supports Wantagh businesses.

Stay tuned for information and updates for our next big event, our Fifth Annual Winter Wonderland Celebration. In the meantime, soak up the sun and enjoy the last weeks of summer and get ready for pumpkin spice everything coming soon.

Sincerely,

Cathy McGrory Powell President

IAQUINTA RIBBON CUTTING - The Wantagh chamber recently welcomed Iaquinta Real Estate, located at 2097 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. On hand at the ribbon cutting was owner Al Iaquinta, Chamber President Cathy Powell and Chamber elected officials.

Wantagh Kiwanis What’s Happening

Have you ever wondered how some community organizations thrive and others lose momentum?

Involvement is important in any endeavor, but in the not-for-profit world, it is essential. The “secret sauce” is doing something that each person believes in their heart is for the greater good. With that in mind, the Wantagh Kiwanis Club was busy all winter and spring planning events and opportunities that would benefit our community.

Kiwanis kicked off on Sunday, May 21st with the Wantagh Fair. The fair almost doubled in size this year now that the shroud of COVID continues to lift and families are happily out again. With a broad variety of food truck vendors, now much more like rolling restaurants, a wide selection of booths with crafts, food, games, and a new section this year dedicated to local organizations in the community, the fair had a steady crowd throughout the day. The Wantagh Fire Department brought a big red fire truck that always attracts children and adults of all ages. The first 500 children each got a free ice cream putting a smile on some weary cherubic faces and there were lots of dogs that joined their owners and snagged tidbits of dropped food. There was even a vendor booth with toys and treats for man and woman’s best friend. Taking advantage of the rain date after a stormy Saturday, the skies cleared for everyone to have a fabulously fun day.

After participating in the Memorial Day Parade, the Club ran a very wellattended comedy fundraiser at Governor’s Comedy Club in Levittown on June 1st. The owners graciously opened their doors so that Kiwanis could sell baskets of raffles, 50/50 chances, and more. Many members,

friends, and just people out to have a fun night for a great cause-filled Governors for an evening of colorful humor. The crowd took the jokes in stride and generously contributed to helping the Club reach its goal.

Saturday, July 1st the Wantagh Kiwanis Club collected food for local pantries. The response was amazing. This community gives from the heart. Almost every person that walked through the doors at King Kullen came out with something to donate. Some gave many bags of groceries. One woman said she has grandchildren, and the need for families to feed their children was on her mind. Helping people with the most basic of needs touches everyone differently. Some may have experienced hunger themselves; others want to know that every child has good nutrition to develop healthfully. Whatever the personal connection, people in need benefitted.

With numerous carts full of essentials, food, baby products, and over $500 collected all were distributed to three local pantries from that one day. Many people think pantries are only stretched thin during the holidays, but when there is no school many children may not have a meal for lunch and some may have less food than they need for good nutrition until school resumes. We are grateful to the many residents

who supported this effort. The need continues to be enormous.

The club proudly took part in the Fourth of July parade. As in years past, the Wantagh Kiwanis Club handed out a few thousand American flags to neighbors along the parade route. Wantagh is filled with patriotic spirit!

Our next major effort is sending some children selected by local schools to leave Long Island for a week to go to the magnificent Adirondack mountains to experience Kamp Kiwanis. The camp is a place where kids from across NYS get to experience a uniquely different life than our wonderful Island offers.

Mountains and lakes abound upstate, but the friendships and early understanding of community service are woven into the experience. It is a chance for a child to get away at no cost to their family. Kiwanis is an international organization and if someone decides to get deeply involved, they can travel the globe meeting Kiwanians across the world. Kamp Kiwanis is a gentle first step into a world with endless possibilities.

Members of the Club will continue to work at the local Giving Garden/ Community Farm to raise fresh produce to contribute to local pantries as well. If you would like to get your hands dirty and help, email WantaghKiwanisFair@ gmail.com. The garden is

getting so productive they recently harvested radishes and garlic the size of tomatoes!

Your Wantagh Kiwanis Club is always trying to raise money. Even before COVID hit, there were people in our community who were struggling. The needs are still real, and many continue to battle with the cost of living on Long Island and how to provide for their families. Kiwanis’ mission is to provide children with opportunities, but you can’t help the child and forget the family. We can send a child to camp for a week, but if there is no food in the house when they come home the experience quickly fades. Kiwanis hopes to help families live better, happier, and more productive lives in Wantagh. Our club is small, but the spirit to help others is huge. More members, who are all volunteers, are always welcomed so that more can be done in Wantagh. If you are interested in getting involved with our community, please reach out to WantaghKiwanisFair@ gmail.com and someone will get back to you. The more hands and minds working together can make a significant difference in the lives of our neighbors.

Liberty, In Partnership With NAWC, Grants Scholarships To High School Seniors

Liberty New York Water, in partnership with the New York chapter of the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC), awarded nine scholarships to high achieving high school seniors pursuing a college degree in a field related to the water industry.

Congratulations to:

• Aidan Attina, North

Shore High School

• Kelly Hinz, Wantagh High School

• Emma Keller, Malverne High School

• Sean Krivitsky, Lynbrook High School

• Christopher Lucchese, Lynbrook High School

• Lance Lowman, Wantagh High School

• Abigail Maler, North

Shore High School

• Dean Mallen, North Shore High School

• Emilia Perri, Lynbrook High School

The recipients were honored at a reception held at the Thayer Hotel at West Point on June 1 and presented with scholarships in the amount of $3,000 each. Recipients unable to

attend were presented with their scholarships at the New York Water office in Merrick, NY.

Debbie Franco, President, Liberty New York Water, said she is proud to lead a company that gives back in this manner. “Investing in our youth is an investment in our future,” she said. “We are confident that one

day these young people will make a difference in the world through their interest in environmental issues.”

Each of the scholarship recipients plans to go into a career related to the water industry, many majoring in engineering. These high school seniors expressed an interest in preserving our environmental resources

and proved that they are hard working through obtaining high grade point averages and participation in a variety of extracurricular activities and part time jobs. More information on the scholarship recipients can be found at www. libertyenergyandwater.com.

LIBERTY, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NAWC, GRANTS SCHOLARSHIPS TO HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Wantagh Student Earns Prestigious Service Award

Madeline Rose, a rising senior at Wantagh High School, was recently named a recipient of the SHIELD Award from Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly. The award recognizes students who demonstrate service, honesty, integrity, excellence, leadership and duty.

She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Marie Malafis. Through her junior year, Madeline already has an impressive record of volunteer service. She assists Town of Hempstead residents with mental and physical challenges through her work with the Camp ANCHOR summer program. Additionally, she tutors local middle school students and is a volunteer choreographer for the youth theater program at St. Frances de Chantal Church.

In school, Madeline is an officer with the general organization, president of the Wantagh Theater Club and a member of the orchestra. She is also recipient of the Jefferson Book Award from the University of Virginia.

Ms. Malafis described Madeline as always reliable and deeply invested in any work that she does.

“She wants to change things for the better,” Ms. Malafis said.

- Liberty Scholarship (l-r): Attendees at the awards ceremony at the Thayer Hotel at West Point included Shannen McDonald, Program Manager, Water Efficiency; Steven Delligatti, Manager External Affairs; Pamela Bellings, Regional Communications (NAWC – NY Chapter Board Member); Lance Lowman; Emma Keller; Aidan Attina; Christopher Lucchese; Richard Kern, Senior Manager Production; Bernard Claase, Manager, AMI Operations; Jeffrey Greenblatt, Director Legal Services (NAWC – NY Chapter Board Member); and Rose Squeglia-Mongello, Project Manager (NAWC – NY Chapter Board Member).

MADELINE ROSE EARNS PRESTIGIOUS SERVICE AWARD - Wantagh High School rising senior Madeline Rose recently received the Nassau County District Attorney’s SHIELD award. Congratulating her are assistant principals Dr. Christopher Widmann, left, and Nick Pappas, and guidance counselor Marie Malafis. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District

The Many Benefits Of Vocational Training

Earning a four-year degree is one path toward a rewarding career. However, that path is the only one available to aspiring professionals. Enrolling in a vocational program can provide students with the skills necessary to engage in high-demand and wellpaying jobs.

Vocational school, often referred to as “trade school,” can be an advantageous route for many people who are looking for an alternative to college. In 2020, the National Center for Education Statistics said a four-year private college cost around $50,300 for a student living on campus, while a four-year public college was roughly $24,300 annually. A 2018 poll from The Learning House, a skills training and coursework company, found 35 percent of students said tuition and other fees were their primary concerns when choosing college programs. Trade schools can cost

three times less than other schooling, making them more palatable to young people concerned about the high costs of college.

Career and Technical Education programs number around 1,200 in the United States alone. Many students begin vocational career tracks in high school, according to American Education Services. Here are some benefits of pursuing an education in the trades.

• Lower cost: According to NCES, trade schools cost significantly less than four-year institutions. Data from the U.S. Department of Education say programs may run between $3,600 to $16,000 per year. Most vocational programs last two years, meaning that students graduate with far less debt than they might accrue when pursuing a four-year college program.

• Individualized attention: Many trade programs offer instruction in very intimate settings, with experienced practitioners serving as mentors and trainers. While each program is different, vocational training schools tend to have lower facultyto-student ratios than traditional colleges.

• Fewer admission requirements: Trade schools may not have the same stringent application and admissions processes as colleges. Course prerequisites and grade point average requirements also may not dictate trade school admissions policies.

• Direct, hands-on training: Unlike a traditional college that marries general education courses with those specific to a major, trade school programs focus only on skills and

How Students Can Benefit From Study Abroad Programs

Study abroad program participation understandably dipped in recent years as the world confronted a global pandemic, during which many countries closed their borders to non-residents for a period of time. In fact, according to NAFSATM: Association of International Educators, the number of students from the United States studying abroad in the 2020-21 academic year declined by 91 percent from the year prior. Since then, the world has largely returned to normal, and that means tens of thousands of students are once again considering study abroad programs.

Participation in a study abroad program can be a life-changing experience for young students. As students and their families consider study abroad programs, they can consider these notable benefits of signing

up to study overseas.

• Experience a foreign culture: The chance to experience foreign cultures firsthand compels many students to study abroad each year. Data from NAFSATM indicate that 44 percent of American study abroad students study in just five countries: Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, and Ireland. But study abroad programs are active in just about every corner of the globe. That means study abroad participants can experience foreign cultures similar to their own or go to school in countries with cultures vastly different from their own homeland.

• Enhance your career prospects: Study abroad programs can help students enhance their career prospects after graduation. NAFSATM

notes that a 2014 survey found that nearly 40 percent of companies indicated they missed out on overseas business opportunities due to a lack of personnel capable of working abroad. Students who study abroad can stand out in crowded applicant pools, particularly among employers looking to expand their international operations.

• Build networks: Networking is perhaps more valuable to professionals than ever before. Students who enroll in study abroad programs may ultimately graduate with both domestic networks and international networks through their universities at home and abroad. Career placement offices at both schools can help students connect with alumni and professionals. In addition, students can

training relevant to each student’s chosen career path.

• Less time to complete schooling: More direct lessons means that students can complete

their certifications or degrees in shorter times and enter the workforce much more quickly than their counterparts at traditional colleges and universities.

Vocational training in trade schools is a viable option for students who want to spend less money and gain valuable skills they can utilize to earn a good living.

build relationships with professors and fellow students they meet while studying abroad, further expanding their professional and personal networks.

• Improve your earning potential: The Institute

for the International Education of Students, also known as IES Abroad®, reports that its alumni earn an average of $6,000 more in starting salaries compared to recent college graduates in the United States.

That’s a significant benefit for students on the cusp of graduating who will have to confront a rising cost of living that has made it as challenging as ever for young adults to establish their financial independence.

Pack Breakfast Or Lunch With A Nut-Free Alternative

Busy families may be in need of a few meal solutions that fit into their schedules — particularly items to grab on the way to school or work. Granola bars often fit the bill as nutritious options in portable packages. While store-bought granola bars are convenient, they tend to be made with nuts or oats, which are not ideal for those with food allergies or intolerances. People can easily whip up homemade granola bars that are chock-full of vitamins and minerals and can be customized to food preferences and tastes. This recipe for “Nut-Free Granola Bars” from “Eat What You Want” (Ten Speed Press) by Danielle Walker can be enhanced with raisins, chocolate chips or dried fruits.

Nut-Free Granola Bars

Makes 12

2 tablespoons warm water

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1⁄3 cup light-colored raw honey

1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil

2 tablespoons unsweetened sunflower seed butter

3⁄4 cup raw pepitas

3⁄4 cup raw sunflower seeds

1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1⁄2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1⁄4 cup chocolate chips, raisins, or dried fruit pieces

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Lightly grease the short sides of a 9- by 13-inch baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with ghee or coconut oil. Line the bottom and long sides of the pan with parchment paper so the ends hang over the sides.

Whisk the warm water and chia seeds in a small bowl and set aside.

Melt the honey in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Turn the heat to medium and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, until a candy thermometer reads 225 F. Stir in the oil and sunflower seed butter and remove the pan from the heat. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Place the pepitas and sunflower seeds in a food processor and pulse once or twice until coarsely chopped. Add the coconut flakes, sesame seeds, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt and pulse a few more times, until coarsely chopped and incorporated. Add the chia mixture and the honey mixture and stir by hand until just combined. Immediately spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Place a piece of parchment paper on top and use a flat-bottomed measuring cup to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Remove the top piece of parchment and bake for 15 minutes, until golden. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top. Let cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer the pan to the freezer for 1 hour, until set.

Remove the pan from the freezer and lift the parchment flaps to remove the slab from the pan. Using a sharp knife, cut into 12 rectangular bars. Serve the bars chilled. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 weeks, or in the freezer for 6 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight.

Senator Steve Rhoads, Legislator Michael Giangregorio and the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce present:

MOVIE NIGHT at WANTAGH PARK

MOVIE NIGHT at WANTAGH PARK

Location: Wantagh Park - 1 King Road Wantagh, NY 11793 (first field on your left)

8/23 Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Pasta:

• Penne

• Baked Ziti

• Spaghetti

• Rigatoni

• Manicotti (8 pc)

• Jumbo Cheese Ravioli (16 pc)

SECOND COURSE (Choose one)

• Chicken Marsala

• Chicken Francese

• Eggplant Parmigiana

• Chicken Parmigiana

SALAD (Choose one)

•

• Sausage & Peppers

• Chicken with Sundried Tomatoes & Broccoli

• Eggplant Rollatine

•

Nassau BOCES Long Island High School For The Arts Summer Scholarship Winners

Fifteen students who won scholarships to attend the Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts (LIHSA) recently completed the school’s four-week Summer Arts Academy. These exceptional young talents (ages 13-17) were selected for this prestigious program based on their audition videos, showcasing their dedication and passion

for the arts with a focus on music.

The recipients each have a diverse range of talent and interests in the music field. Nine of the students performed in the Musical Theatre Production program as part of the cast of Disney’s “Finding Nemo, Jr.” which was produced by LIHSA Instructor and Musical Theatre Director

Wantagh Names Board Officers For New School Year

The Wantagh School District Board of Education hosted it reorganization meeting for the 2023-24 school year on July 5, with re-elected trustees Tara Cassidy and Adam Fisher sworn in for new terms.

In selecting officers for the new year, the board chose Mr. Fisher as president

and Ms. Cassidy as vice president. As is tradition, John McNamara took the superintendent’s oath of office. At the regular business meeting which followed, the board approved several teacher appointments for September. The board’s next meeting is on Aug. 24.

Chris Brick and Visiting Artist and Musical Director Adam Tilford. The other recipients learned ensemble and performance techniques in the Art of the Band with musical director and grammy nominated jazz guitarist Tom Guarna and enhanced their audio production and recording techniques with LIHSA Music Instructor Alex Vietheer. This unique summer program allows students the chance to perform as an ensemble as well as record their own performances in LIHSA’s own professional grade recording studio.

Lindsay Rogan, LIHSA Assistant Principal and Summer Coordinator, said,

“We are thrilled to welcome these talented students to the Summer Arts Academy. Their dedication and creativity are commendable, and we look forward to nurturing their artistic growth and inspiring their future accomplishments.”

The scholarship winners, their school district and Summer Program at LIHSA, are listed below:

Ashlee Fucarino, Wantagh

UFSD - Musical Theatre

Addison DeFalco, Islip

UFSD - Musical Theatre

Anaya Mackey, Hempstead

UFSD - Music (Art of Band)

Cooper DaSilva, East Meadow UFSD - Musical Theatre

Grace Araoz, Locust Valley CSD - Musical Theatre

Harry Diner, Harborfields

CSD - Music (Art of Band)

Jarod Hirsch, Smithtown

UFSD - Musical Theatre

Leo Goldstein, Glen Cove City SD - Musical Theatre

Marc Tosi, Garden City

UFSD - Music (Art of Band)

Maria D’Angelo, Levittown

UFSD - Musical Theatre

Marilena Castoro, Smithtown UFSD - Musical Theatre

Olivia Carmody, East Meadow UFSD - Musical Theatre

Patrick Kiernan, Seaford

UFSD - Music (Art of Band)

Stephanie Callan, Hicksville UFSD - Music (Art of Band)

Angelo Roussis, Westbury

UFSD - Music (Art of Band)

The scholarships,

made possible through the support of The Joel Foundation, enable these young individuals to embark on a transformative artistic musical journey. The Summer Arts Academy provides a platform for these students to immerse themselves in their craft, guided by LIHSA’s team of seasoned faculty members.

The Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts extends its warmest congratulations to the scholarship recipients and its heartfelt gratitude to The Joel Foundation for their commitment to fostering artistic excellence and providing invaluable opportunities to young, aspiring musical artists.

BOARD OFFICERS FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR -

The Wantagh Board of Education selected Adam Fisher as president and Tara Cassidy as vice president for the 2023-24 school year. Photo courtesy of the Wantagh School District

SUMMER SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS - LIHSA Summer Scholarship winners, from left, back row: Olivia Carmody, Grace Araoz, Ashlee Fucarino and Jarod Hirsch. Middle row: Addison DeFalco, Cooper DaSilva, Marilena Castoro, Maria D’Angelo, Marc Tosi and Leo Goldstein. Front row: Stephanie Callan, Harry Diner, Angelo Roussis and Patrick Kiernan. Not pictured: Anaya Mackey.

Age Is No Deterrent When It Comes To Academics

Students often experience some jitters on the first day of school, but the prospect of such nervousness doesn’t appear to be too great a deterrent for students 60 and older. Officials at Toronto’s York University estimated they had around 430 students aged 60 and older in the undergraduate and graduate programs in 2021. Increased enrollment among people at or near what is often considered retirement age could be a reflection of what the AARP notes have been an increase in continuing education courses at many colleges and universities. Such courses may be offered to individuals of a certain age at reduced tuition. They also can help workers over 50 learn new skills that can benefit them in an ever-adapting professional landscape that increasingly relies on technologies that may not have been around when older professionals attended college and began their careers. In addition, the AARP reports that individuals interested in going back to school for personal enrichment, as opposed to achieving an advanced degree, may be able to audit classes for free. In such instances, older adults often do not receive academic credit but still get to benefit from taking the class.

Drink (Smoothies) To Good Health

Nutritious foods support a strong immune system, which can help individuals avoid a number of illnesses. The colors of fruits and vegetables often indicate which nutrients are within them. For example, the bright orange color of fruits like peaches and apricots

Apricot Peach Smoothie

Makes 4 1-cup servings

1 cup chilled apricot nectar

1⁄2 cup silken tofu

1⁄2 cup unsulfured dried apricots

11⁄2 cups peach slices, frozen

1⁄2 cup vanilla frozen yogurt

Directions:

advertises that they are sources beta-carotene, an important antioxidant.

Smoothies and frozen drinks can complement healthy eating plans, as they involve whipping up a few ingredients for something refreshing and filling.

Smoothies are a favorite of adults and kids alike. This recipe for an “Apricot Peach Smoothie” from “Super Smoothies” (Crestline) by Ellen Brown is supercharged with beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It’s a perfect smoothie for summertime.

4 peach wedges for garnish, optional

Combine apricot nectar, tofu and dried apricots in a blender or smoothie maker. Blend on high speed for 45 seconds, or until mixture is pureed and smooth. Add peach slices and frozen yogurt, and blend on high speed again until mixture is smooth. Serve immediately, garnished with peach wedges, if desired.

Considerations For Seniors Looking To Go Back To School

The picture of a traditional college student is one in his or her late teens or early 20s. However, a deeper look may reveal that college student demographics are more diverse than one might imagine. In fact, senior citizens can rest assured that if they plan to return to the classroom, they’re likely to find students around their age. According to the senior citizen resource Elder Guru, just over 0.3 percent of university students are over 65. Even though that is a low number in the grand scheme of things, it is an indication that seniors have a presence on college campuses. And that number is expected to rise. Universities are increasing efforts to include seniors as important parts of their student bodies. Here are some things seniors considering going back to

school may want to know.

• Incentives are available. Many schools are looking to expand their elder student body populations by making it easier for them to go to school. That means seniors may be able to attend for little to no cost through tuition waivers and discounts. Speak with an admissions officer about your options.

• Lay the foundation for a new career. A survey from the Rand Corporation found that 39 percent of workers age 65 and older who were currently employed had previously retired at some point. Going back to school may provide a foundation for new skills that can make it easier to advance in a second career. Heading back to classes also can help people stay competitive in their

current job.

• Engage and socialize. Going back to school provides seniors with an opportunity to engage with their peers and younger students. Returning to school may expose older adults to new experiences, technologies, and customs they may otherwise never have enjoyed.

• Embrace the excitement of a new environment and its challenges. Heading back to college can be challenging, which is something seniors looking for mental stimulation may enjoy. Senior Finance Advisor reports that heading back to school and lifelong learning has been linked to better health, improved financial situations, and even a reduced risk of dementia.

• Staying informed. Going back to school

can enable seniors to stay technologically informed and learn about movements and

other factors that are helping to shape the modern world.

Seniors have many

How Parents Can Pitch In At Their Children’s Schools

Giving back to one’s community can take many forms. Some may give back by supporting the legislature to make communities more inclusive, while others may volunteer with their local fire departments.

Parents of school-aged youngsters can typically find many opportunities to give back through their children’s schools.

Parents who volunteer at their children’s schools often get a unique glimpse into their children’s life at school. Such parents may see how their children interact with educators and classmates and gain greater insight into the school community where kids spend so much of their time. Volunteering at school also can benefit kids, who may recognize the importance of education more readily if mom and/ or dad are spending their free time on campus. That recognition can leave to improved performance

in the classroom.

Parent-teacher associations can be great resources for parents who want to volunteer with their children’s schools. Each year, students graduate and move on to new schools or colleges, meaning schools are in new need of parent volunteers each school year. Though each school has its own unique needs, the following are some roles parent volunteers may be able to play at their children’s schools.

• Tutor

• Mentor

• IT support: Parents with significant experience in tech or information technology can offer to lend a hand or provide advice or insight in support of a school’s IT staff

• Organizer: Schools host many functions in a typical school year, and officials typically ask parents to pitch in so such events can be successful.

For example, parents can help organize school fundraisers, dances, and holiday bazaars.

• Chaperone on field trips

• Assistant coach: Many schools pay stipends to the head coaches of their athletic teams, but parents can serve as unpaid assistants or support staff during the season. For example, parents can volunteer to work as gameday staff, taking tickets at the gate or directing ticket holders where to park.

• Club official: Extracurricular clubs also can benefit from parents willing to work as volunteers. Parents can help students who want to start new clubs or serve as moderators or helpers in existing clubs.

• Speaker: High schools may host periodic career days throughout the school year to help students on the cusp of applying to college

uncover potential career paths. Parents with significant professional experience in a given field can offer to speak to students on career days, sharing information

about their careers and industries and answering any questions students may have.

• Administrative support: Parents can also pitch to help with behind-the-

reasons to return to the college classroom, and such a pursuit can pay numerous dividends.

scenes administrative duties like letter-writing, grant proposals, and other projects that are vital in securing funding for school programs and other services.

Transform Bananas Into A Moist Dessert

Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be eaten right off the bunch or utilized in a bevy of recipes. Despite being characterized as the first “superfood” endorsed by the American Medical Association in the early 20th century, bananas are avoided by some people. Some claim that bananas make people gain weight or develop constipation, but many medical organizations point to the nutritional benefits of bananas, which contain potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, fiber, and manganese. A banana’s flavor starts out as mildly sweet and gains more sweetness as it ripens. Very ripe bananas, or those that have brown speckled skins, don’t need to be discarded. They make perfect additions to baked goods, notably banana bread. Before tossing out brown bananas, consider this recipe for “Chocolate Chip Banana Bread” courtesy of Jenna Barnard and the Butternut Bakery Blog.

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

1 loaf

1 1⁄2 cups ripe and mashed banana (3 to 4 medium bananas), measured

1⁄2 cup packed light brown sugar

1⁄2 cup granulated sugar

1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1⁄2 cup 2 percent Greek yogurt (sour cream also works)

1 1⁄3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

3⁄4 cup mini chocolate chips, plus a handful more for sprinkling on top

2 cloves garlic

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325 F and grease and line a 9x5 loaf pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter and sugars until you reach a paste-like consistency. This may take some vigorous whisking for a minute or two. You can either use a whisk or an electric mixer with the paddle attachment.

Add in your mashed bananas followed by the eggs, yogurt and vanilla.

Once all of your wet ingredients are mixed together, fold in the dry ingredients. Then, fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if you like.

Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely before removing from the pan. Store at room temperature in an airtight container.