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Graduation 2021

Y IZE D TO REEAD ON AN

VICTORIA O'SHEA WINS ROGER REES AWARD

PANDEMIC RECOVERY, RESTORING NORMALCY

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT IS BACK!

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NEWS

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2021 | VOL.8 NO.3

Supervisor Clavin Invites Residents to ‘Swing Into Summer’ as Hempstead Town Opens Playgrounds And Pools Supervisor Don Clavin invited residents to “swing into summer” as he announced the re-opening of Town of Hempstead playgrounds in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Supervisor shared the good news at Newbridge Road Park playground in Bellmore, joined by Senior Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, Councilman Bruce Blakeman, Councilman Anthony D’Esposito, Councilman Dennis Dunne, Councilman Tom Muscarella, Councilman Christopher Carini, Town Clerk Kate Murray, Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll and a group of neighborhood children who enjoyed the first playground slides of the summer season.

Supervisor Clavin also reported that Town of Hempstead pools will re-open on July 3, just in time for our nation’s independence celebration. The decision on whether or not to re-open playgrounds and pools was recently given to local municipalities by New York State, and town officials maintain that all facilities will op-

erate in accordance with the governor’s public health directives, including enhanced sanitizing of equipment and social distancing reminders. Indeed, the town safely and successfully opened town beaches following state guidelines, and will implement similar policies and safeguards for playgrounds and pools.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our social interaction, recreational activities and entire way of life, particularly for our community’s youth,” stated Supervisor Clavin. “We want people to be safe, but we also understand the need for our young people to get out of the house and restore some normalcy in their lives. We encourage all our residents to come celebrate summer in America’s largest township at one of our many playgrounds and pools.”

Councilman Carini, “I am proud to join Supervisor Clavin and my colleagues on the Hempstead Town Council in giving our residents some needed relief as we begin to recover from the impact of

COVID-19.”

Under the leadership of Supervisor Clavin, the Town of Hempstead has provided financial aid, personal protective equipment and enacted legislation to assist hospitals, essential workers, business owners and residents who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The town also succeeded in requesting that the governor allow safe, socially distant outdoor dining for restaurants and graduation

ceremonies for local students. Supervisor Clavin and the Town Board also called on the governor to permit youth sports.

“By working together and being responsible, we can all enjoy Town of Hempstead playgrounds and pools while protecting one another,” concluded Supervisor Clavin. “We are confident that we can continue to provide the great summer experience that our residents have come to enjoy in America’s largest township.”

Pandemic State of Emergency has Ended As of June 24, 2021 Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that the New York COVID-19 State of Emergency has ended. Federal CDC guidance will remain in place, meaning if

you’re unvaccinated, you should still wear a mask in public indoors. Masks will also still be required on public transit and certain other settings, like health care facilities.

NEWS

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Bellmore-Merrick Graduates Class of 2021

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he Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District graduating Class of 2021 was celebrated at three ceremonies on the Wellington C. Mepham, Sanford H. Calhoun and John F. Kennedy high school football fields on June 13.

The pomp and circumstance were radiating throughout the students, staff and grounds as spectators tailgated along the fence lines to catch a glimpse of this special day.

School color balloon arches and other

embellishments, commemorative student speeches and diploma sleeve handouts marked the afternoon.

Valedictorians Max Luft from Mepham, Jasper Seabold from Calhoun and Jake Arlia from Kennedy, as well as salutatorians Jack Savalli from Mepham, Michelle Serban from Calhoun and Jordyn Krinsky from Kennedy all addressed the crowds.

Arlia discussed the pandemic’s effects on him and his classmates.

“I am not surprised at how triumphantly we persevered through this year,” he said. “The joyful memories we cultivated in our pre-pandemic reality, incentivized us to work hard and cooperate for a brighter future.”

Luft added similar sentiments to his Mepham classmates.

“Our cooperative abilities have only been improved through COVID,” he said.

“We are all integral pieces in our future and we need to help each other up when

one of us inevitably falls in order for us all to succeed.”

Seabold leaned into his speech, offering much comic relief, but noted he wanted to also say something to add value to his classmates’ lives. He discussed the importance of literacy in going through life.

“If you’re literate you can read different arguments and school of thought,” he said. “Only through the free exchange of ideas can we hope to distinguish those of merit.”

Meadowbrook Alternative Program Graduates Eight Students

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n June 14, eight students graduated from the Meadowbrook Alternative Program in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District. Mekhi Beckett, Kevin DeJesus, Jason Font, Paul LaRocco, salutatorian Luke Piano, valedictorian Tyrik Purcell, Samantha Quigley and Jenna Rath were honored by Principal Susan Ellinghaus, school psychologist Dr. Joseph Netto and other MAP staffers.

Ellinghaus said she “looked upon the graduates as heroes who never gave up even after quarantine and a senior year filled with social distancing and other protocols.”

Valedictorian Tyrik Purcell thanked his teachers and the MAP staff for being

so supportive of him and his fellow classmates.

The class selected Zachary Gosse for the Faculty Address. In his address, Gosse reminded the students that “they are worthy and that no one could take that from them.”

Derek Baumann, a MAP Class of 2017 alumnus and soon to be graduate LIU Class of 2021 with honors, presented the alumni address.

He explained his reasons for attending MAP and how “the support of the staff helped him to develop feelings of selfworth.” He reminded them that “anyone could be traditional, but the real interesting people are alternative.”

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Your NewsMag

☞ TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS: Governor Cuomo announces the end of COVID 19 State of Emergency; The return to normalcy town opens parks and pools (page 2); Mepham’s Victoria O’shea Wins Roger Rees Award (page 18) GRADUATION NEWS: Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District 2021 Graduation (page 3): Top of the Class Meet Val & Sal Calhoun H.S. (page 6); Calhoun H.S. 2021 Graduating Class (page 7); Top of the Class Meet Val & Sal Kennedy H.S. (page 8); Kennedy H.S. 2021 Graduating Class (page 9); Top of the Class Meet Val & Sal Mepham H.S. (page 11); Mepham H.S. 2021 Graduating Class (page 12); Meet Meadowbrook Alternative Program Val & Sal (page 14) IN AND AROUND Built Well Solar Celebrates 20 years as LI Solar Pioneer and Solar Energy Company (page 15); Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting Celebrations for Total Care in Merrick; Planet Play and CWC Security in Bellmore (page 15) ENTERTAINMENT IN AND AROUND: Entertainment In And Around Town includes Fourth of July Fireworks at Jones Beach (page 16); Friday Night Car Show Returns to Bellmore (page 16); Register to Attend Kennedy High School Multi-Year Reunion Grad Years 1968-1985 (page 16); Schedule for Free Saturday Night Live Concerts at Eisenhower Park Lakeside Theater (page 16); Free Summer Family Thursday Movie Night Schedule at Eisenhower Park Lakeside Theater and Free Movie Night Tuesdays at Cedar Creek Park, Wantagh (page 16); Schedule for Town of Hempstead Free Community Concert Series in neighborhood parks (page 16) COMMUNITY Digital and Virtual Ways to Give Back to Military and Veterans (page 17) HEALTH MATTERS: Playtime: It’s Not Just for Kids, Say Experts (page 20); Six Things You Should Ask Your Pharmacist…But Aren’t (page 20); Tips to Achieve Beautiful Summer Hair (page 21) Graduation Photos Courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District.

WHO’S WHO AT YOUR NEWSMAG Advertising and Publishing Jill Bromberg

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Phone: 516-633-8590 P.O. Box 15, Bellmore, New York 11710

Bellmore • Merrick

Congratulations Class of 2021!

On to the next chapter in life to experience a wonderful journey of living, learning and taking on new responsibilities. As a tribute to the hard work and effort required to reach the high school graduation milestone, each student is named in a list along with their fellow graduates from Calhoun, Kennedy, Mepham High Schools and the Meadowbrook Alternative Program.

Take a moment to meet the valedictorians and salutatorians and don’t forget to check out photos from graduation day. Students overcame the challenges of learning and socializing through COVID restrictions and were fortunately allowed to have in person graduation.

Now that the COVID-19 State of Emergency has been lifted from New York State, we can all move forward with a positive outlook.

Businesses are coming back stronger than ever, in fact, several new businesses have opened in Merrick and Bellmore and the Chambers of Commerce have been busy with grand opening ribbon cutting ceremonies to welcome them.

Looking for fun things to do this summer?

There is plenty of entertainment in and around town. From the exciting Fourth of July fireworks at Jones Beach to the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show and a blockbuster line up of Free Live Concerts and movies for families to enjoy. And thanks to the efforts of our elected officials there has been successful push for the openings of playgrounds and pools.

Talk about entertaining… Listen to Victoria O’shea’s rendition of “Promise Me This.” She received the prestigious Roger Rees Award for Excellence in Student Performance after her rendition of “Promise Me This” in the Mepham Skull and Bones production of “The Theory of Relativity.”

COVID-19 has painfully reminded us all how important health matters. See the “Health Matters” section for a video tour of Metro Physical Therapy in Bellmore and read articles about ways to keep healthy. There are tips on questions to ask your pharmacist, playtime and outdoor activities to keep people of all ages feeling good and happy

as well as ideas to achieve beautiful summer hair.

Your news is our news…Congratulations to Matt and Sheila Kuschner on the birth of their granddaughter Aurora Sophia. And, Built Well Solar in Bellmore is celebrating 20 years as a solar energy company. Thank you for sharing your news with Your NewsMag readers.

Do you know of something newsworthy that you would like to share with Your NewsMag readers? Is your business celebrating an anniversary or someone in your family celebrating a special occasion? We want to know. After all, your news is our news.

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Jill Bromberg PUBLISHER Your NewsMag 516-633-8590 jill@yournewsmag.com

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Top Of Their Class... Meet Calhoun High School Valedictorian and Salutatorian Jasper Seabold – Sanford H. Calhoun High School Valedictorian

Jasper Seabold solves problems for the pleasure of it. Clearly one of the most talented students in the building, he delights in learning. Jasper is mathematically articulate and though clearly a leader in the classroom, he never seeks to dominate a conversation.

Though he earned a grade of 100 all four marking quarters in AP Computer Science A, teachers describe him as a kind and compassionate student who enhances class discussions as much by listening to others as by offering his own approaches.

Well liked among his peers and faculty, Jasper is outgoing and finds a

place among many different groups of friends who share different interests. He holds membership in numerous honor societies and is also a member of Wind Ensemble exemplifying his musical talent and dedication. In Calhoun's Advanced Science Research Program, he utilized web development to implement a research project using Homomorphic Encryption for anonymity in voting. Jasper's potential for growth knows no limits and he will be a dedicated contributor to university life.

Jasper was also involved in the Math Team, Model UN, varsity badminton and the Ultimate Frisbee Club. He plans to attend Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall.

Michelle Serban – Sanford H. Calhoun High School Salutatorian

In her purposeful, unassuming and humble way, Michelle Serban has made a lasting impression on her teachers at CalhounHigh School. It was very clear from the beginning of her high school career that Michelle had a natural talent for understanding math and science.

In ninth grade, she was identified as a strong science student and was invited to apply for Calhoun's Advanced Science Research program. She subsequently wrote a paper titled, "An Exploration of the Relation between Consecutive Coefficient Factorable Quadratic Equations and the Fibonacci sequence."

Throughout high school, Michelle en-

rolled in classes known for their undeniable rigor and taught by teachers known for their undeniably high expectations.

As a member of multiple honor societies and clubs, additionally, she held leadership positions in many of them. Additionally, she was in Concert Choir exemplifying the breadth of her many talents.

Michelle is a tutor for All Kids Can Learn, a member of the Math Team, Science Club, Model UN, is classically trained in piano and voice and a varsity tennis singles player. Michelle is a gifted young lady who will undoubtedly continue to work to change the world. She will be a dedicated contributor to university life as she plans her future in the fields of STEM and entrepreneurship at Georgetown University.

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Top Of Their Class ...

Meet Kennedy High School Valedictorian and Salutatorian Jake Arlia – John F. Kennedy High School Valedictorian

Jake is by far one of the most accomplished, ambitious and diligent students to ever attend Kennedy High School. He is the real deal both academically and in what he has accomplished within the school community. Jake is one of those students you admire.

His “go-getter” attitude is impressive to all. He perseveres through anything; he never gives up until he achieves his goals. Jake is a genuine learner. He excels in all academic areas and accepts nothing less than his best. He is intensely curious about the world around him and takes great pride in his schoolwork.

Jake is the type of student who can make connections to concepts learned inside the classroom and apply them to what is going on in the real world.

He is a creative thinker able to think “outside the box.”

He is a role model to all of his peers.

Jake has a compassion for others and has a desire to champion on behalf of the underdog. You don’t always see this admirable trait in a teen.

Jake has been a member of Key Club for four years, including serving as secretary and president. He is also a Student Government member, serving as Student Senator each year. Jake has an affinity for languages and is currently learning four languages at once.

He is truly remarkable. Jake is the type of student a counselor and teacher get once in their career. It is such an honor to know him. He is heading to Fordham University in the fall.

Jordyn Krinsky – John F. Kennedy High School Salutatorian

Jordyn Krinsky is a unicorn, the rare entity who is uniquely amazing at every task she attempts. Jordyn makes it a habit to achieve at the highest possible level across every walk of her life with determination, poise, and a breezy wit.

She’s a scholar, a thinker, a scientist, an athlete, a helper, an innovator, a leader, a daughter, a friend, and a truly human being.

She is brilliant, poised, ambitious, personable, forever-driven, perceptive, goal-oriented, funny, and comfortable in her own skin. Jordyn is driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and the desire to know the unknowable.

Jordyn is a member of five National Honor Societies, was named a National Merit Commended Scholar in 2019 and a Child Mind Institute Rising Scientist Award nominee. Jordyn is also is published poet. She is the senior class vice president, president of Tutors for a Cure, member of Student Government, SADD Club and Science Olympiad, as well as an oped columnist for the school paper.

Jordyn was also a member of the soccer team.

She’s extremely passionate about science, and she was one of five Regeneron semifinalists at Kennedy this year. She wants to become a doctor.

With curiosity and a sense of wonder, Jordyn has the innate gifts and fiery ambition to make this world a better a place. Jordyn will be attending the Washington University School of Medicine.

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Top Of Their Class...

Meet Mepham High School Valedicorian and Salutatorian Max Luft – Wellington C. Mepham Valedictorian

Max Luft’s genuine quest for knowledge has earned him many accolades throughout his time at Mepham High School. Valedictorian, AP Scholar with Honors and a member of multiple honor societies, Max is inquisitive, curious and passionate across all subject areas. He is intrinsically motivated to succeed and shares his passion for learning by assisting peers in the classroom and tutoring students during his free time.

Max’s comprehensive understanding of material matched with his compassion for others has allowed him to create a supportive environment for those he tutors.

Outside of the classroom, Max lends his talents to the Varsity Badminton team along with Math Club and Science Olympiad. Competing in regional and national competitions each year, Max scored highest in the building on the AMC 10 math competition. Max's commitment to the fields of math and science are further highlighted with his qualification to Nassau County’s Interscholastic Math League All Star Team and his receipt of the Outstanding Scholastic Achievement in Chemistry Award.

Along with his impressive accomplishments, Max is a humble young man who has earned admiration and respect from the school community. His desire to learn and apply what he has learned is apparent in all his endeavors, along with his witty sense of humor. Max shows integrity and leadership both in and out of the classroom and has embodied what it means to be a Mepham Pirate. He will be attending Stony Brook University in the fall.

Jack Savalli – Wellington C. Mepham Salutatorian

The salutatorian of Mepham High School’s Class of 2021, Jack Savalli is an enthusiastic learner who is unrelenting in his quest for self-improvement, receptive to constructive criticism and unafraid to challenge himself way beyond the limits of his comfort zone.

As one of the most reliable “go to” members of his class, Jack has never failed to enhance Mepham’s vibrant extracurricular student life. By actively engaging and participating in numerous clubs and activities, Jack consistently demonstrates a tireless optimism, passion, and willingness to go “above and beyond”.

Academically, Jack has challenged himself throughout high school to the highest degree possible and consistently enrolled in the most rigorous courses.

His academic prowess and dedication have allowed him to achieve induction into three National Honor Societies.

Through these organizations, Jack has served as an ambassador and peer tutor among the student body.

Jack has proven to be an accomplished and versatile athlete. Throughout his time at Mepham, Jack has been heavily committed to the football and lacrosse programs. Jack has earned the deep respect of his coaches, which led to the honor and responsibility of his role serving as his team’s captain. This past year, Jack was named the Most Valuable Defensive Player on his football team as well as being named All-County.

Jack Savalli personifies spirit, character, intelligence, and the absolute best potential in a graduating senior. He is attending Hamilton University in the fall.

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Meet the Meadowbrook Alternative Program Valedictorian and Salutatorian Tyrik Purcell – Meadowbrook Alternative Program Valedictorian

Luke Piano – Meadowbrook Alternative Program Salutatorian

A lifelong lover of mathematic, Tyrik has completed every math class MAP had to offer including Pre-Calculus and AP Art History. His teachers describe him this as “a strong-minded, eager learner, and kind-hearted young man.

Tyrik’s schedule has been rigorous, and he is not afraid to accept a challenge. He has completely transformed throughout high school and is one of the reasons why we (the MAP staff ) love what we do.”

Tyrik will attend Long Island University Post in the fall. He plans to study sports management and is hoping to be a coach or a sports agent upon graduation. Tyrik has always loved sports; he was a running back and defensive end under coach Gattus at Kennedy and also ran track for the Cougars, with both the 100- and 200-meter dashes being his events.

Though COVID-19 changed the volunteer opportunities, Tyrik did enjoy the times he was able to help out in the Community Cupboard.

Looking back during his time at MAP, Tyrik lists zip-lining at annual trips to Project Care as his favorite and is only sorry that COVID precluded that trip this year. Having been on the Honor Roll for 13 of his 14 marking periods here.

Luke Piano arrived at MAP for his sophomore year from Mepham High School.

Since seventh grade at Grand Avenue Middle School, Luke has had an interest in and talent for make-up application.

Luke will be attending Make-Up Designory (MUD), a private trade school int the fall. He is looking forward to living in the city while attending classes and will complete this course of study with a New York State Cosmetology license. He will be studying all aspects of make-up application including theater, television, film, fashion, and special effects Luke is hoping to remain in the city once he completes his classes and is licensed, and plans to focus on make-up for theater, film, and fashion.

MUD offers a job placement option which he plans to take full advantage of.

After some time in New York, he would like to eventually transfer out to Los Angeles.

His teachers said that Luke “expresses himself in positive ways and can be his biggest advocate without being egotistical. He has an eye for detail and the ability to take something he imagines and bring it to life.”

NEWS

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In and Around... come Total Care Adult Healthcare to the chamber with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Total Care Adult Healthcare is located at 1401 Jerusalem Avenue, Merrick. www.tcadult.com Built Well Solar is celebrating 20 years as Long Island’s Solar Pioneer Solar Energy company. Built Well Solar started in 2001 when its founder, Dan Sabia, a 9/11 first responder concerned about our dependence on foreign oil, realized solar energy was the perfect energy-saving, cost-cutting solution for Long Islanders. Built Well Solar is a member of the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and has become a Top U.S. Solar Contractor receiving many consumer-oriented accolades, including its Better Business Bureau A+ rating and having been voted “Best of Long Island” many times, Built Well Solar has attained ranking nationally as one of the “Top Solar Contractors in the United States” eight years in a row. Built Well Solar is located at 2473 Jerusalem Avenue, North Bellmore. www. builtwellsolar.com

Total Care Adult Healthcare Ribbon Cutting Ceremony owner Amy Waldman is joined by family, friends, staff, elected officials and members of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce to wel-

CWC Security, LLC Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate the opening of their new store front location. Owner, Micheal Pittakas is joined by family, elected officials and fellow board members of the Bellmore Chamber. CWC Security LLC new showroom is located at 2882A Merrick Road, Bellmore. They provide a range of high quality security products and services for both home and businesses. http://www.cwcsny.com Planet Play Bellmore Chamber Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores celebrates the opening of children’s entertainment center Planet Play located at 418 Bedford Avenue, Bellmore Village. www.planetplayny.com

Your NewsMag

Welcome to the World

Sheila and Matt Kuschner of Merrick welcome their granddaughter Aurora Sophia into their lives on June 15, 2021. Congratulations to the Kuschner family and parents Billy and Aly Kuschner on the birth of beautiful daughter.

Happy Birthday Aurora Sophia!

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Entertainment In and Around …

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS display returns to Jones Beach: Independence Day celebration will feature special live musical performances, food and beverage vendors at the Plaza and Jovia Financial Credit Union FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR presentation by Santore’s World Famous Fireworks on Sunday 7/4/21 at 9:30pm – Jones Beach Central Mall. jonesbeach.com FRIDAY NIGHT CAR SHOW at the Bellmore train station parking lot is once again running every Friday night, weather permitting from 6pm – 10pm until Oct. 1.

Free to walk through, admission fee for cars is $5.

KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL MULTI-YEAR REUNION FOR ALUMNI GRAD YEARS 1968 – 1985 will be held on Saturday, August 14 from 1-5pm at Tropix On The Mile – The Bayview Catering at Tropix located at 395 Woodcleft Avenue, Freeport, NY. Outdoor bar capacity holds approximately 1500 people; indoor seated dinning about 330 and buffet indoor capacity is 500 people. Advance registration is requested by August 7, 2021. $20 per person includes buffet, 1 drink and live band.

Rain or Shine, No Refunds. Registration and payment after August 7 and at the door is $30 per person (bring exact change). For more information and to register and pay online today visit https://www.bellmorejfkalumni.org/reunion_registration FREE LIVE CONCERTS at Eisenhower Park Lakeside Theater EVERY SATURDAY from 8pm-10pm! FREE ADMISSION. BRING BLANKETS OR CHAIRS. Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park Field 6. All advance ticketing, limits on capacity and reservations are lifted. For more information or updates visit: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks Blockbuster lineup of rockin’ summer concerts brought to you by Jovia Financial Credit Union, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, All Music Inc. and Rick Eberle Agency.

July 3 .............. Anyway You Want It – Journey Tribute July 10 ............ Half Step – Greatful Dead Tribute July 17 ............ Almost Bros. – Allman Bros. Tribute July 24 ............ Sir Paul – Beatles Tribute July 31 ............ Petty Rumors – Tom Petty/Fleetwood Mac Tribute August 7 ......... Janis Joplin Experience August 14 ....... Misty Mountain – Led Zeppelin Tribute August 21 ....... Strange Magic: Electric Light Orchestra Tribute August 28 ....... Street Fighter – Rolling Stones Tribute

FREE SUMMER FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Lakeside Theatre, Field 6 Eisenhower Park. Movies start at sunset, times are approximate.

July 8 ................The Secret Life of Pets 2 (PG 1 Hr 26 Min) ... 9:28pm July 15 ..............Trolls: World Tour (PG 1 Hr 30 Min) ... 8:25pm July 22 ..............The Crood’s: A New Age (PG 1Hr 35 Min) ... 8:20pm July 29 ..............Abominable (PG 1 Hr 37 Min) ... 8:14pm August 5 ..........The War with Grandpa (PG 1 Hr 34 Min) ... 8:06pm August 12 ........Playing with Fire (PG 1 Hr 36 Min) ... 7:57pm August 19 ........My Spy (PG 1 Hr 39 Min) ... 7:48pm August 26 ........Dora and the Lost City of Gold (PG 1 Hr 42 Min) ...7:37pm THE 24TH ANNUAL LONG ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM EXPO returns to Bellmore August 10 – 15, 2021. For more information on one of the “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” – MovieMaker Magazines Visit longislandfilm.com for more information.

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD FREE COMMUNITY CONCERT SERIES returns to neighborhood parks. All live concerts begin at 7:30pm. Please note that all concerts are outdoors and can be affected by weather. Visit hempsteadny.gov or follow town of hempstead on facebook for event updates.

• Tuesday, July 6: Decadia at Newbridge Road Park, Bellmore • Wednesday, July 7: Fearless at Speno Park, East Meadow • Thursday, July 8: Lenny Del and the Demensions at Rath Park, Franklin Square • Friday, July 9: A special evening remembering Danny Clvagna at Merrick Road Park, Merrick • Monday, July 12: Kamellot Band at Walker Memorial Park, Lakeview • Tuesday, July 13: lue Bayou at Forest City Park, Wantagh • Wednesday, July 14: Bad Animals at Oceanside Park, Oceanside • Thursday, July 15: 70’s Rock Parade at Echo Park, West Hempstead • Friday, July 16: Streetfighter at Baldwin Park, So. Baldwin • Tuesday, July 20: Forever Plaid at Coes Neck, Baldwin • Wednesday, July 21: Half Step at Seamans Neck Park, Seaford • Thursday, July 22: That Motown Band at Town Park, Pt. Lookout • Friday, July 23: That 70’s Band at Shell Creek Park, Island Park • Tuesday, July 27: Radio Flashback at Mill Brook, Valley Stream • Wednesday, July 28: Songs in the Attic at East Village Green, Levittown • Thursday, July 29: Mean Machine at Averill Park, Elmont • Friday, July 30: Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band at Hewlett Pt. Park, East Rockaway • Tuesday, August 3: Strange Music at Newbridge Road Park, Bellmore • Wednesday, August 4: Larger Than Life at Echo Park, West Hempstead • Thursday, August 5: Jerome “City” Smith at Roosevelt Pool, Roosevelt • Friday, August 6: PsuedoSstudio at East Village Green, Levittown • Tuesday, August 10: Killer Joe at Uniondale Avenue Park, Uniondale • Wednesday, August 11: Mi Gente Live at Speno Park, East Meadow • Thursday, August 12: Back in Time at Oceanside Park, Oceanside • Friday, August 13: BonJourney at Seamans Neck Park, Seaford • Monday, August 16: So Good the Neil Diamond Experience at Rock Hall Museum, Lawrence • Tuesday, August 17: Teresa McClean at Rath Park, Franklin Square • Wednesday, August 18: Nikki Torres & The Girls of Summer at Hewlett Pt. Park, East Rockaway • Thursday, August 19: Wonderous Stories at Merrick Road Park, Merrick • Friday, August 20: Shining Star at Town Park at Point Lookout

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COMMUNITY

Digital and Virtual Ways to Give Back to Military and Veterans

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hile there are certain holidays and events each year dedicated to members of the U.S. military, the need to support veterans and active-duty military members and their families is an ongoing effort.

The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can give back all year long from your smartphone: Volunteer and Donate Virtually: Volunteering doesn’t have to be in-person these days. Soldier’s Angels has numerous virtual ways to make an impact in a service member’s life – from supporting deployed service members by collecting and sending care packages to adopting a family for the holidays and hosting virtual baby showers.

It’s never too late to donate your quarantine wardrobe and de-clutter the house. Organizations like Vietnam Veterans of America accept gently-used clothing and household items and will even pick up donations safely from your home. Providing reliable transportation is another way to help. Programs like Vehicles for Veterans and Recycled Rides provide donated cars and vehicle maintenance and repair assistance for veterans in need of a ride.

Take Honor Flights to the Next Level: The Honor Flight Network enables veterans to visit war memorial monuments and museums at no cost, but for veterans unable to travel to Washington D.C., T-Mobile and virtual reality mental fitness solutions company Healium are bringing a virtual Honor Flight experience to veterans where they live. Veterans can tour the Washington D.C. war memorials from the comfort of their own homes using virtual reality goggles and a hotspot, powered by T-Mobile’s 5G network.

Give a Gift the Gives Back: The next time you need to buy a birthday gift or

stock up on household essentials, make a purchase you can feel good about. American-made apparel company Oscar Mike donates 100 percent of their proceeds to help injured military members stay active. Boss Dog provides tasty and nutritious food and treats for your four-legged companions while giving back to disabled veterans and service dog organizations like Victory Service Dogs and Pets for Vets.

Providing a fun night out for service member families is a way to boost mental health and well-being.

Non-profit organization Vet Tix provides tickets to concerts, sporting events and more to families in need of a little fun.

How Your Business Can Help: Large or small, your business can make an impact. Offering a veteran or military discount at your business will not only show appreciation and support, but will also drive business. Companies like T-Mobile offer discounted military smartphone service plans and support programs like Hiring Our Heroes, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce initiative to help provide military members and their families with meaningful employment opportunities.

Those who serve in the Armed Forces have given so much of themselves.

These are just a few ways we can continue to show our gratitude. ~Statepoint

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NEWS

2021 | VOL.8 NO.3

Mepham’s Victoria O’Shea Wins Roger Rees Award Victoria O’Shea, an 11th grader at Wellington C. Mepham High School in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, was named a Roger Rees Award for Excellence in Student Performance winner after her rendition of “Promise Me This” in the Mepham Skull and Bones production of “The Theory of Relativity.”

“We are extremely proud of Victoria for this accomplishment and for working so hard to meet the criteria for this prestigious award,” said English teacher/Skull and Bones adviser Edward Grosskreuz. “She is a young woman with a true passion for the performing arts, and it is clear her commitment to her craft is paying off. She brings a level of maturity and professionalism to the stage, and Skull and Bones is proud to have her as a member.”

The Jimmy Awards, also known as the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, are currently the only student award in the New York metro area that recognizes distinction in student performance and outstanding achievement

in high school musical theater programs.

O’Shea was among six other female performers named for Best Actress. She earned a $5,000 scholarship to the Norwalk Conservatory for the Arts. The national showcase will be presented online on Thursday, July 15, 2021. View her performance here, https://youtu.be/ bkr1EgXHCE0.

Victoria O’Shea was announced as one of the female nominees for a Roger Rees Award for Excellence in Student Performance after her rendition of “Promise Me This” in the Mepham Skull and Bones production of “The Theory of Relativity.”

Photo courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

2021 | VOL.8 NO.3

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HEALTH MATTERS

Playtime: It’s Not Just for Kids, Say Experts

W

hile most of us associate playtime with childhood, adults are increasingly acknowledging the importance of play and leisure time for themselves.

A new survey commissioned by The Genius of Play and conducted by OnePoll finds that 89% of adults have learned to appreciate the importance of play and leisure time over the past year. What’s more, 84% say taking time to play helps them be more productive at work.

“You’re never too young or too old to play,” says Anna Yudina, senior director of marketing initiatives at The Toy Association, which spearheads The Genius of Play. “In fact, research links play with a number of wellness benefits in adults, such as reducing stress, boosting life satisfaction, and empowering people to be creative, flexible thinkers.”

To incorporate play into your life, consider these tips from The Genius of Play: • Take on a Hobby: Seventy percent of adults picked up a new hobby or leisure activity over the past year -- and with good reason. Hobbies can be a source of positive emotions, get you outdoors, encourage physical activity and social interactions, and spark creativity. From roller skating to dancing to crafting to playing an instrument, consider taking on a new, playful hobby or revisiting one you enjoyed during childhood.

• Plan a Game Night: While play often occurs spur-of-the-moment, life is hectic and schedules are jam-packed. Consider scheduling time for fun to ensure it happens. For example, make one evening each week a totally screen-free, stress-free experience. Order pizza (or your household’s cuisine of choice) and break out games and puzzles. You might even consider planning themed trivia nights delving into your favorite subjects.

Six Things You Should Be Asking Your Pharmacist…But Aren’t

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• Hop in the Car: Whether you choose a destination that allows you to simply relax, or you take on a more active adventure, a trip can broaden your horizons and rejuvenate you when you’re feeling down or just trapped in the daily routine. Consider taking a just-for-fun trip on your own, with a friend or partner, or pack up the car and bring the kids.

• Bring out Your Inner Child: Parents, grandparents and other adults with a kid in their life can spend more time playing with the little ones. Not only is play the perfect way to bond, research highlights a number of associated health benefits. Those who play with children burn 20% more calories per week, and researchers link playfulness to creativity, spontaneity and positive attitudes. Intergenerational play can help adults maintain cognitive skills as they age and even extend their life. A study published in the journal “Evolution and Human Behavior” found that grandparents who help out with grandchildren live longer.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, visit thegeniusofplay.org for tons of fun, free games and downloadable activities.

“While our primary mission is educating parents and caregivers about play’s vital role in child development, adults need time to play too,” says Yudina. “We hope to motivate people of all ages to play more -- whether it’s by embracing personal hobbies or by spending more time playing with their kids.” ~ StatePoint

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n estimated 4.5 billion prescriptions will be filled this year in the United States, with about half of consumers taking at least one prescription medication over the past 30 days.

“You’d think we would be better at communicating with our pharmacists – just as we do with our other health care providers, like doctors, nurses, and dentists,” says Susan Peppers, R.Ph., vice president of Pharmacy Practice at Express Scripts. “Unfortunately, it’s just not the case.”

In fact, a JD Power study shows that only 10% of people talk to a pharmacist when ordering or receiving their medications. Express Scripts pharmacists were asked what are the top six questions patients should be asking their pharmacists, but don’t. Their answers offer insights into why we should take the time to ask these questions and why pharmacists play an important role in our health care.

• Could this medication interact with my vitamins and supplements?

Non-prescription medications and supplements can interfere with your prescription or cause unnecessary side effects. Talk to a pharmacist about all the medications you take, especially when you are prescribed any new medication.

• I’m taking multiple meds. What do I need to know? If you are on multiple medications for one or more chronic conditions you should speak with a pharmacist any time there is a change to your medication regimen to check for potential drug-drug interactions, medication overlap or gaps in care.

• What should I do if I forget to take my medication? Always consult with your prescriber on what to do if this happens. Having access to your pharmacist 24/7 is particularly important when you forget to take a dosage at the scheduled time. He or she can help you get back on track so that you get the full benefits of your medica-

tion. Having access to your pharmacist from the privacy of your home is another great reason to look for this 24/7 convenience.

• Could this prescription make me unsteady on my feet? Some medications can make you dizzy or drowsy, and there are other hazards in the home that can cause a fall, especially as one ages and needs to get up frequently during the night. A pharmacist can provide home safety tips to avoid an accident.

• I sometimes forget to take my meds.

What’s a reminder that works? Taking medications regularly can help avoid complications. When having trouble remembering to take your medications, turn to pharmacists, who can suggest tech solutions that will work for you, such as reminder apps. They can also help you manage side effects you may be having and identify alternatives that you can discuss with your prescriber, when needed.

• Is there a more affordable option for my prescription? If you are having trouble affording your medication, your pharmacists can help with more affordable options and recommendations, such as generics or less expensive formulary options.

For more tips and resources, visit www.esrx.com/AskYourPharmacist.

“When it comes to whole-person care, pharmacists play a major role in the equation,” says Peppers. “Communicating with your pharmacist regularly can help reduce the chance of complications related to your medications. ~ StatePoint

HEALTH MATTERS

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Tips to Achieve Beautiful Summer Hair From damage to color fade, to dry-out and breakage caused by styling and seasonal activities like swimming, summer can wreak havoc on your hair -- if you let it. Here’s a bit about the science of your hair’s structure, as well as what to know to keep your locks looking their best all season long.

Strengthen Hair As the experts at L’Oreal Paris explain, many hair care treatments significantly improve the hair’s surface by providing softness and shine. However, with hair’s complex structure primarily made up of proteins, strengthening the core of the hair fiber is much harder to achieve.

Additionally, the architecture of the hair fiber is consolidated by numerous chemical bonds that create bridges between the chains. These bonds can be broken due to heat styling, summer weather conditions and other factors, resulting in dullness, weakness, and breakage. Sticking with products that strengthen hair can go a long way toward reversing course.

One such choice is L`Oreal Paris’s new EverPure Bond Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner, which features STRONGCORE SCIENCE, a patented and exclusive technology that penetrates layers to shield and reinforce weak bonds.

This shampoo and conditioner are part of the EverPure Bond Strengthening System, a sulfate-free regimen validated by colorists that gives quick results. Ninety-six percent of users report that hair feels moisturized, hydrated and healthy. In just six uses, the strength of weak bonds is repaired and over time, hair’s resilience to daily stress is increased.

Beat Frizz Summer weather can vary by location, but regardless, a leave-in styler can be helpful in combating frizz amid the heat and humidity of the season.

Additionally, ending your shower with a bit of cold water helps seal the cuticles that were just opened by the warm/hot water you used to wash your hair. Sealed cuticles reflect light better (think shiny hair) and the frizz is less noticeable.

Manage Color “Who doesn’t love getting outside once the weather heats up? As a colorist, it’s my responsibility to make sure my clients know that proactive and re-

active care are so vital to keeping color looking its best,” says celebrity hair stylist and colorist, Jonathan Colombini.

For blondes, Colombini recommends EverPure Purple Shampoo, Conditioner and Anti-Brass Mask to neutralize orange and yellow tones, leaving hair brighter and moisturized.

Detox Over time, scalp buildup can cause issues like itching, shedding and clogged follicles. Unfortunately, the summer months can involve chlorine exposure, excess sweat, and more product build-up than usual due to your on-the-go lifestyle. To deeply cleanse, exfoliate and remove excess build-up, all while being gentle on color-treated hair, try EverPure Scalp Care + Detox Shampoo and Scrub.

When it comes to your hair goals, a few simple tweaks to your routine can mean a summer of sun and fun that doesn’t take a toll on your tresses. ~ StatePoint

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