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Going Places: Halloween Happenings: Spirits of the Season Take Over Area Attractions

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Headless Horseman (made of jack o’lanterns) rides from Sleepy Hollow to Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Long Island, for The Great Jack o’ Lantern Pumpkin Blaze © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Halloween has become a national festival of fantasy and imagination. Here are some of our favorites, from Salem, Massachusetts, to Sleepy Hollow, Historic Hudson Valley, to Old Bethpage,Long Island to New York City’s Village Halloween Parade.

Salem Haunted Happenings

Salem arguably is the birthplace of Halloween festivities, and while the spirits of the season occupy the village year round, they get into a frenzied gear during Salem Haunted Happenings. Because of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, Salem has the added authenticity and depth to understand how women, in particular, were persecuted as witches (the patriarchy would particularly go after midwives and healers), so Salem understandably later became a haven and a hub for modern-day witchcraft (paganism), which has its roots in women being healers and midwives. You can experience most of this (the whimsy and fantasy but also the sober tragedy) year-round, but it all takes on special resonance – and yes, festiveness – at Halloween.

Salem, Massachusetts, may well be the birthplace of Halloween festivities, with its annual Salem Haunted Happenings. The famous House of Seven Gables was the centerpiece of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Hawthorne’s great-grandfather, Colonel John Hathorne, was the judge that found over a 100 women guilty of witchcraft and oversaw at least 20 hangings that may be visited year round. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

There are haunted houses, ghost tours, museums and attractions (the famous House of Seven Gables was the centerpiece of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Hawthorne’s great-grandfather, Colonel John Hathorne, was the judge that found over a 100 women guilty of witchcraft and oversaw at least 20 hangings), psychics, fairs, séances, trolley and walking tours, recreations of the famous trial.

“Cry Innocent” recreates one of the famous Salem witchcraft trials © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Helpful visitor planning information, schedules, descriptions, planning, lodging and dining, even restroom locator at https://www.hauntedhappenings.org/things-to-do/).

Salem is one of my favorite destinations. Year round happenings can be found at Destination Salem, https://www.salem.org/.

Historic Hudson Valley’s Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze

The original Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, celebrating 20 “gourd-eous years” this year, is already underway at Historic Hudson Valley’s Van Cortlandt Manor, Croton-on-Hudson – a testament to the popularity of the event which continues through Nov. 17 (advance purchase tickets necessary).

Located on the grounds of an 18th-century estate on the banks of the Croton River in Westchester, Van Cortlandt Manor is the picturesque setting for this awe-inspiring fall event. Visitors meander through the heritage gardens filled with hand-carved jack o’lanterns, past the brick ferry house, where they well might get a glimpse of the Headless Horseman, and see the light show at the manor house.

This year, celebrate the festival’s 20th year with a giant birthday cake and Celebration Arch; step into the Gourd & Goblet Tavern, a new VIP experience on the pumpkin trail; spot the giant Kraken rising from the Croton River; meet life-sized dinosaurs; try not to get stuck in the 24-foot spider web, gaze at the stars in the Pumpkin Planetarium, and see a working carousel; get fall-themed sweets and snacks at Café Blaze; and browse the Blaze Boo-tique to find exclusive souvenirs and local finds.

Since 2005, more than 2 million visitors have delighted in this walk-through experience, where thousands of hand-carved pumpkins in elaborate displays light up the night. Now in two New York locations, in Westchester at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson and in Nassau County at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, this fun fall festival features larger-than-life installations, along with synchronized lighting, and an all-original soundtrack.

Proceeds support the education and preservation efforts of Historic Hudson Valley.

Van Cortlandt Manor,525 S Riverside Ave, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520https://pumpkinblaze.org/blaze-hudson-valley.html

Historic Hudson Valley also presents these iconic Halloween happenings:

At Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, master storyteller Jonathan Kruk casts a spell with his dramatic performances of the classic tale of the “Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” as you’ve never heard it before: Irving’s ‘Legend’ returns reimagined this fall. Performed outdoors under the stars at Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, master storyteller Jonathan Kruk casts a spell with his dramatic performances of the classic tale. Live music and sound effects by Jim Keyes and an appearance from the Headless Horseman himself make this a spooky spectacular experience for all ages. This experience takes place outdoors in the evening and is seated, but also requires some walking. Tickets $35/adult, $34/seniors, YA, $30/child. Advance purchase tickets required; no tickets sold on site. Select dates from Sept. 27-Nov. 3 (Sunnyside, 3 W Sunnyside Lane, Irvington, NY 10533, https://hudsonvalley.org/events/irvings-legend/)

A Night of Folklore, Fortune, and Festivities: Discover delightful and mysterious creatures who croon creepy tunes, tell your fortune and tall-ish tales of legends and lore, and come face-to-face with the Headless Horseman. Shop for Sleepy Hollow swag at the Halloween night market and enjoy cocktails, mocktails and snacks. Select dates Sept. 27 – Nov. 3 ($30/adults, $29/seniors, young adults, $25/child). (Philipsburg Manor: 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY, https://hudsonvalley.org/events/twilight-village-at-sleepy-hollow/)

At Philipsburg, in Historic Hudson Valley, the locale for Washington Irving’s “Legend of Sleepy Hallow,” you very well may encounter the Headless Horseman himself. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Night of Legendary Magic Featuring Mark Clearview & Nick Wallace: Journey with master illusionists into the realm of the unknown at this spooky supernatural spectacle as they communicate with the spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country like Hulda, Major Andre, and the Headless Horseman himself. New Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Premium option: cabaret style seating with at-seat drink service in the first two rows of the theater. Strongly recommended for ages 10+ only; limited seating. Select dates, Sept. 27-Nov. 3, tickets starting at $60. (Philipsburg Manor: 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY,  https://hudsonvalley.org/events/the-spirits-of-sleepy-hollow-country/)

Walk In the Footsteps of Ichabod Crane! Fun and friendly tour guides take you on a colorful, photo op filled, immersive romp through historic Philipsburg Manor at the historic heart of Sleepy Hollow, where you will see key landmarks of this special place made famous by Washington Irving in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This one-hour tour takes you through the hidden corners in the landscape at Philipsburg Manor that inspired settings in Irving’s amazing tale. You’ll encounter a variety of immersive scenes. This illuminating daytime experience is the easiest and most fun way to get deep inside the true Legend!  Discovery Walk ticket also includes admission to a Philipsburg Manor tour, before or after your Discovery Walk, subject to availability. (Recommended for ages 10+ and requires negotiating steep, mixed terrain, not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.).Select dates Sept. 27-Nov. 3 (adults $40, seniors/young adults $39, children $35). Philipsburg Manor: 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY, https://hudsonvalley.org/events/legend-of-sleepy-hollow-discovery-walk/

In addition to Philipsburg ManorWashington Irving’s Sunnyside, and Van Cortlandt Manor, Historic Hudson Valley also stewards extraordinary historic sites: Kykuit, The Rockefeller Estate and Union Church of Pocantico Hills.

Historic Hudson Valley, 639 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills, NY 10591, info@hudsonvalley.org, 914-366-6900, https://hudsonvalley.org/

Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze Celebrates 5th Anniversary on Long Island

Historic Hudson Valley has brought The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze to Long Island’s Old Bethpage Village Restoragtion© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Historic Hudson Valley has brought The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze to Long Island’s Old Bethpage Village Restoration, the 209-acre living museum village for its 5th year, presented by Catholic Health. Old Bethpage is the ideal setting for Nassau County’s largest fall festival event, The spectacular walk-through Halloween experience features thousands of hand-carved pumpkins in elaborate displays that pay homage to Long Island culture, heritage, history and landmarks, as well as the Halloween season, complete with motion, lighting, and original soundtrack. Stroll the pumpkin trail past 19th century buildings, through historic barns. Enjoy pumpkin carving and see the 100+-pound carved winners, the Blaze Boo-tique featuring seasonal gifts and merchandise, and Café Blaze, an on-site café featuring fall treats like cider donuts and pumpkin beer.

The Headless Horseman rides from Sleepy Hollow to Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Long Island, for The Great Jack o’ Lantern Pumpkin Blaze © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New for 2024:

  • $10 flat rate children’s tickets (ages 3-17), valid for every date and every time slot.
  • New displays designed to wow (not scare) the whole family, including a moving Ferris wheel with pumpkins and Day of the Dead tribute.
  • Intricate pumpkin sculptures of Natalie Portman and Jerry Seinfeld join other Long Island icons, such as Billy Joel, Joan Jett, Sue Bird, and Dr. J in Blaze’s Long Island Hall of Fame.
  • A new Celebration Arch which serves as a tribute to Blaze: Long Island’s anniversary, ideal for photo ops.
  • Find your favorite classic Hollywood monster in the Pumpkin Planterium

Advance online purchase of timed tickets or FLEX anytime tickets is required; no tickets are sold at the venue. Select evenings Oct. 4-Nov. 3 including Halloween. Proceeds support the education and preservation efforts of Old Bethpage Village Restoration and Historic Hudson Valley.

Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804, https://pumpkinblaze.org/blaze-long-island.html.

Boo at the Zoo Returns to the Bronx Zoo

Bronx Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo takes place weekends through October 27 and Columbus Day, October 14 (photo: WCS)

The Bronx Zoo’s favorite fall tradition, Boo at the Zoo, takes place Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 28 to Oct. 27 (and Monday, October 14th), when zoo guests can get into the spooky spirit as new and returning Halloween festivities come to life throughout the park.

Fall is one of the best times to spend the day at the Bronx Zoo as stunning autumn colors come to life across its 265-acre hard wood forest and guests enjoy the beauty of nature and wildlife here in New York City. Set in peak leaf peeping season, Boo at the Zoo is the daytime fall event which has enchanted guests for years and is back with entertainment and activities that are perfect for all ages, which is addition to the Zoo’s nighttime event, Pumpkin Nights.

Boo at the Zoo’s new thrills include:

  • Trick or Truth Maze: Explore a maze and complete a scavenger hunt to learn about so-called “spooky” animals and bust some creepy myths. (Astor Court from 11am-4pm)
  • Face Painting: Transform into a spooky or sweet creature at the Butterfly Patio Pad with free face-painting for children ages 3+, 11am – 4pm.
  • Creepy Crawly Mystery Wall: Touch and feel mysterious textures and materials to learn about animals and other creatures.
  • Halloween Mash Up: Visitors of all ages can dance, sing, and play with the zoo’s fan favorite emcee at Astor Court, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30
  • Boo at the Zoo Mural: Draw a favorite animal or spooky creature at the Boo at the Zoo mural at Astor Court from 11am – 4pm.

Other Boo at the Zoo activities taking over the park include:

  • Costume Parade: Costumed entertainment by animal-themed stilt walkers and Halloween puppets. Guests in Halloween costume join the parade (Astor Court at 12, 1, 2pm)
  • Halloween Crafts: A fan-favorite activity of decorating spooky creature puppets at Giraffe Patio from 11am-4pm, along with the Costume Parade.
  • Magic & Mind Reading: The popular magician is back with an animal-inspired magic and mind reading. (Grizzly Corner at 11am, 12, 2, 3, 4pm)
  • Pumpkin Carving Demos: Expert artists create giant animals and intricate scenes out of pumpkins at Dancing Crane Pavilion from 11am-4pm (speed carving also taking place at 11:30am and 2:30pm!).
  • Wildlife Theater: ‘The Wildlife Witch’s Super Scary Halloween Show,’ a funny short musical featuring a witch and all her creepy crawly friends, takes place at Giraffe Corner at 10:45am, 11:30am, 12:30, 2:30, 3:15 & 4pm.
  • Spooky Stories to Tickle Your Spine: Animal-themed folklore and storytelling at Grizzly Corner; 11:30am, 12:30, 2:30, 3:30pm.
  • Boo Playground: Halloween-themed lawn games at Astor Court from 11am-4pm.
  • Extinct Animal Graveyard: The eerie graveyard of animal species that have gone extinct with education about how to prevent it from happening in the future (Mouse House Lawn, 10am – 5pm)
  • Pumpkin Trail: Hundreds of expertly carved pumpkins (Rhino Trail from 10am – 5pm)

In addition to Boo at the Zoo, Pumpkin Nights, back for its second year, lights up the zoo after dark with 5,000 animal-themed jack o’lanterns. (Thursdays – Sundays, Sept. 26-Oct. 13, 7-10pm, and Oct. 17-27 6:30-10pm. )

Purchase tickets for Boo at the Zoo: BronxZoo.com/Boo-at-the-Zoo

Purchase tickets for Pumpkin Nights: BronxZoo.com/PumpkinNights

RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns

RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns,featuring what it claims is the world’s longest Jack O’Lantern Trail, returns for its 11th season with 10,000 illuminated objects including 7,000 hand-carved jack o’lanterns, 3,000 specialty lanterns, and hundreds of family-friendly Halloween-themed visual displays. This year RISE will be open only 18 select nights between Oct. 4-28.

Discount tickets available by obtaining a promocode at site.

Advanced purchase tickets are required. Tickets are not sold at the door. All tickets are sold here (https://www.jackolanterns.com/cart?promo=GC2024)
(High-demand early timeslots sell out each year, most several weeks in advance, so we recommend purchasing your tickets as early as possible so you can get the date and time of your choice.

RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns at Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts, 185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798

NYC Village Halloween Parade is the Cat’s Meow

New York City’s iconic Village Halloween Parade is famous for its puppets, creativity, artistry, and joyful vibe. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York City’s celebration of fantasy, the Village Halloween Parade, is celebrating its 51st anniversary this year with the theme, “Meow.”

“Hallow’s Eve belongs to us, as it always has – to the witch and the Black Cat, to the solitary wise-woman on the outskirts of town (or the upstairs apartment or that white house) and her shape-shifting familiar, to all of us who walk alone and dance together in velvet furs and sharpened claws,” writes Jeanne Fleming, Artistic and Producing Director, announcing this year’s theme. “New York’s Halloween Parade calls on Cat Ladies of every purr-suasion to don your finest tails and whiskers and join the Ball. Led by the puppet creations of Official Parade Puppeteers Processional Arts, whose luminous sweepers return to conjure a quadrille of giant cats, let us take a playful swipe at those who would cross our path – and revel in all that makes us uniquely, inscrutably, un-Cat-egorizably fabulous…. each in our own way, reflecting the tumult of the last few years, and inviting self-reflection.”

The theme for the 51st Village Halloween Parade, an iconic New York City event, is “Meow.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“Turns out NYC is the epicenter for Cat Ladies!” So, the Parade invites Cat Ladies and Cat Lovers of all stripes and patterns to the Parade. There will be a special section of the Parade for CAT LADIES (must be in costume). This special section comes with after party tickets, Choreography, chants, a TV appearance, a prime place in the Parade line up and a contest to win a spot on a Parade Float.

For those eager to take part or watch in person, this iconic New York City event kicks off at 7 pm ET on Thursday, October 31, 2024, starting from Spring St. and traveling north on Sixth Avenue from Canal Street to 18th Street. The parade is FREE for all to view or join IN COSTUME!  (Tickets for special experiences are available.).

Started by a Greenwich Village mask maker and puppeteer Ralph Lee in 1973, the Parade began as a walk from house to house in his neighborhood for his children and their friends. After the second year of this local promenade, Theater for the New City stepped in and produced the event on a larger scale as part of their City in the Streets program. Today the Parade is the largest celebration of its kind in the world and has been picked by Festivals International as “The Best Event in the World” for October 31.

Now, 51 years later, the Parade draws more than 70,000 costumed participants and some 2 million spectators, including television-viewing audience, live on NY1 beginning at 8 pm.

In 1994, the Mayor of the City of New York issued a Proclamation honoring the Village Halloween Parade for 20 years of bringing everyone in the City together in a joyful and creative way and being a boon to the economic life of the City. “New York is the world’s capital of creativity and entertainment. The Village Halloween Parade presents the single greatest opportunity for all New Yorkers to exhibit their creativity in an event that is one-of-a-kind, unique and memorable every year. New Yorkers of all ages love Halloween, and this delightful event enables them to enjoy it every year and join in with their own special contributions. The Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village is a true cultural treasure.”

Jeanne Fleming, longtime Artistic and Producing Director of the Village Halloween Parade, announcing this year’s theme. “Meow,” said, “New York’s Halloween Parade calls on Cat Ladies of every purr-suasion to don your finest tails and whiskers and join the Ball.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Join hundreds of puppets, 50 bands representing music from around the world, dancers, artists, and thousands of other New Yorkers in costumes of their own creation in the nation’s most wildly creative public participatory event in the greatest city in the world!

New York’s Village Halloween Parade, halloweenparadeinfo@gmail.com, www.halloween-nyc.com.

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© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures 

L.I.G.H.T For Charity: Hope For Youth

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Kayla Donnenfeld
Kayla Donnenfeld

By Kayla Donnenfeld

L.I.G.H.T. – Long Island Giving Help Together for Charity – is my column where I shine a light on a different Long Island-based charity each month. For this column, I focus on Hope For Youth.

For more than 50 years, Hope For Youth has provided services for children, youth and families, spanning a continuum of care from out-patient, clinical and preventive services, to foster care, diagnostic and emergency residential services.

The organization works with children as young as birth through 21 across the Long Island region.

With locations in Amityville, Bellmore, Farmingdale, Bay Shore and Seaford, Hope For Youth continues to grow to meet the needs of Long Island communities.

With six residential facilities, 35 foster homes and 165 staff members, Hope For Youth has grown into one of Long Island’s preeminent providers of services for children and families.

Hope For Youth’s main program is providing runaway and homeless youth services.

Hope For Youth provides safety screenings, needs assessments and aftercare services for kids under the age of 18, including on the street and in community settings, Hope For Youth also provides safe shelter, counseling, transportation, food, clothing, outreach, educational assistance, as well as social and emotional development programming.

Hope For Youth also provides community based programming to promote social, emotional,
mental and physical health and well-being for kids in need. This includes Hope For Youth’s
“HEART” program, which provides home-based child welfare services for children and family.

Hope For Youth updates its website with success stories, including inspiring stories about
adoption, high school graduations, college acceptances, and more.

If you’d like to help Hope For Youth, you can do so by volunteering your time, or by donating funds, school supplies, toys, gift cards, electronics or other goods that will be provided to at-risk youth.

For more information, please visit Hope For Youth’s website at https://www.hfyny.org/.

Completed and ongoing renovations in New Hyde Park-Garden City Park

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Manor Oaks School’s new outdoor learning space. (Photos courtesy of New Hyde Park-Garden City Park School District)

The New Hyde Park-Garden City Park School District has dedicated the past couple of months to preparing the buildings for welcoming students into renovated spaces for the 2024 to 2025 school year.

All four school buildings now have outdoor learning spaces, equipped with new benches, tables and overhead coverage with the addition of Wi-Fi to these spaces underway.

Each building also installed, or are in the process of installing, outdoor canopies over the pre-K playgrounds. Now, all playgrounds will have overhead coverage while students are playing outdoors. Irrigation systems were either replaced or added at all four buildings, as well.

At Garden City Park School, the first and third floor corridors received new flooring and stair tread replacements. At New Hyde Park Road School, there is new carpeting in the lobby and auditorium. At both Hillside Grade School and Manor Oaks School, the hallways were painted in their respective school colors.

“These projects focused on enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of the
facilities,” Fredrick Metzger, director of facilities, said in a press release. “By incorporating outdoor learning spaces and refreshing interiors with new flooring and painting, you’re fostering a sense of pride and providing versatile environments for learning.”

Floral Park Board of Trustees meeting reports

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New Village Deputy Treasurer Jaclyn Battaglia, her family and the Floral Park Board of Trustees. (Photo courtesy of the Village of Floral Park)

Floral Park Village Board meeting reports:

The Floral Park Village Hall Building. (Courtesy of Incorporated Village of Floral Park Facebook)

Deputy Mayor Lynn Pombonyo 

Floral Park in the News:

For all of you early risers who watch News 12 before sunrise, the village hopes you enjoyed last week’s three mornings of the Spotlight on the Village of Floral Park. Monday’s theme was “Main Street” featuring visits to six new businesses and interviews with the owners and directors of Jameson’s Restaurant, The Hance Family Foundation and Tulip Cigars on Tulip Avenue; along with Floral Park Chemists and Dancin’ Queens Dance Studio on Jericho Turnpike; and Here and Now Yoga on Verbena Avenue.

Tuesday’s Recreation Center spotlight was fun-filled with entertaining interviews about park operations, field care, team sports activities, arts and crafts, wellness, the swimming pool programs and roller hockey. The Rec Center spotlight was coordinated by Park Superintendent Kurt Meyfohrt and Deputy Village Administrator Darlene Lanza.

Wednesday highlighted the Centennial Gardens and Bird Sanctuary featuring Conservation Society President Dennis McEnery, sharing its history and commending FPCS Volunteers who inspire and maintain its beauty. FPCS Volunteers presented the Rose, Lavender and Children’s Gardens and the Gardening classes; Birds and Birdwatching; and the Oct. 26 Fairie Forest Festival.

Police Department:

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Pink Patch Month for the Floral Park Police Department, which commemorates this special time and leads in this important fight.

On a very rainy Saturday, Liz’s Day charity and volunteers gathered the Village together and raised thousands of dollars for women’s cancer research and the Cold Spring Harbor Lab.

FPPD directed patrols are aimed at monitoring areas of the village where concerns are reported, often at Civic Association meetings, and then enforcement becomes a higher priority. Some of the current directed patrols include sections of Jericho Turnpike where double parking occurs; fire/emergency lanes, often on and adjacent to Tulip Avenue where illegal parking occurs; and stop signs, especially in the North End, where violators don’t come to full stops.

In the 2024 calendar year to date, the FPPD has issued 445 summonses for stop sign violations.

The village reminds residents of Lieutenant William Doherty’s important Sept. 19 post: “Door-to-Door Home Improvement Scams” warnings with sections on “What to Watch Out For” and “Ten Things You Can Do to Avoid Construction Scams” and all other kinds of scams. Check the Floral Park Police Department Facebook page and share.

Conservation Society:

It’s twenty-five days and counting until the tiny fairies and fourteen fairy villages arrive at Centennial Gardens for the magical Faire Forest Festival. Be a fairy or come in your Halloween costume on Oct. 26 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Trustee Frank Chiara:

Library

This month, the Floral Park Library will be hosting College Prep classes for High School students and parents. There will be sessions for seniors on Oct. 8, on Oct. 29 for juniors and on Nov. 5 for freshman and sophomores. All programs start at 7 p.m. and registering for the classes is suggested.

Additionally, there will also be a class on the New Digital SAT on Oct. 15 at 7 p.m., which is open to all high school students and their parents.

Both will give students and parents a chance to learn and prepare for the transition from high school to college.

Details on these and other scheduled events can be found on the Library’s website at FloralParkLibrary.org.

 

 

 

Readers Write: Why Romney is not endorsing Harris for president

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Republican Utah Sen. Mitt Romney has said he would not vote for Donald Trump, but what is keeping him from endorsing Kamala Harris for president? 
 
Perhaps, biblically speaking, the answer can be found in a second letter to Timothy in which the Apostle Paul gives a long, scathing description of a group of people and in no uncertain terms says “avoid such people.”
 
These people will be “Lovers of self, lovers of money, arrogant, abusive ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable. slanderous, without self-control, brutal, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power.”
 
What does that have to do with Romney and Trump? 
 
Mitt Romney is quite a powerful person. His father, George Romney, was quite powerful too. Before entering politics,the elder Romney was the president of American Motors. From 1963 to 1969, he was the governor of Michigan. In 1968, he was defeated as the Republican nominee for president by Richard Nixon.

                                                                                                                                   Mitt followed in his father’s footsteps. Before entering politics, he was the chief operating officer of Bain Capital. From 2003 to 2007, he was the governor of Massachusetts. In 2012 he became the Republican nominee for president and was defeated by Barack Obama. He has been the senator from Utah since 2019. 

 
That’s quite a powerful family. But the Utah senator has cited the dangers of Trump-inspired political violence many times over the years. He has cited concern for his family’s safety as one of the reasons he has not publicly supported Kamala Harris. In an interview with The Atlantic, he said, “How am I going to protect 25 grandkids, two great-grandkids, five sons and five daughters-in-law?” 
 
Romney’s fear of Trump began after the Jan. 6 riot, when he started paying $5,000 a day for private security for his family. Threats and intimidation by MAGA insurrectionists have been going on for some time.  Perhaps these MAGATTS are not aware that Apostle Paul’s description of people to avoid was a reference to them and their despicable leader. Unlike Trump’s lies, the above facts can be corroborated.
 
I’ve been around for quite some time and who would believe that in America, death threats would be made against individuals who supported political candidates they oppose, especially for the highest presidential contest, even against some of the most powerful individuals in America. As for Trump’s political cronies, as Shakespeare would say, when is a lie not a lie?
When Trump tells these power-hungry traitors what to do and they shamelessly and  dutifully follow their dictator wannabe. As Americans, we should not only “avoid such people,” but we should throw them all out of office, or better yet, out the windows.
Alvin Goldberg
Great Neck
                                                                       

Town establishes committee to address old Building Dept. actions

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North Hempstead Town Hall in Manhasset. (Photo by Karina Kovac)

The Town of North Hempstead is seeking to right the wrong of former town building inspectors illegally issuing certificates of occupancy by establishing a committee to find remedial solutions for affected homeowners.

“How is this my fault?” Roslyn Country Club resident Alex Roit asked the Town Board. “How was I supposed to know this?”

The committee is focused only on houses in the Roslyn Country Club, but council members argued that it should address all residents affected, not just a select few.

The advisory committee was established Tuesday night through a unanimous vote by the board despite clashes among board members about which residents should be involved.

In 2007, multiple town Building Department employees were arrested and later convicted after a 16-month corruption investigation. Many were arrested for bribery.

That year homeowners in the Roslyn Country Club, as well as many others throughout the town, were informed that their certificates of occupancy were invalid due to these department employees’ actions.

Roit said he purchased his home in 2005 without any knowledge about the illegal actions between his home’s builder and the town’s building inspector.

“This was a dream home to start and we loved the area,” Roit said.

A couple of years later, he said he received a letter stating that his home’s certificate of occupancy was granted in error and that its square footage was greater than permitted.

He said for 17 years, he has been in limbo without any remedy available to him.

Roit said his variances have been denied and that selling his house has been difficult. He said the only option is to spend $80,000 to buy back the additional square footage and remove portions of his house to meet the town code.

The Legacy Issue Resolution Committee is an advisory committee and would suggest solutions for the town board to consider. It consists of five members who would investigate the issue.

The committee members are Edward Butt, Dina de Giorgio, Bonnie Parente, Richard Bivone and Robyn Brattner.

The plan is for them to offer solutions by the end of January for the board to then approve or deny.

Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Council Member Ed Scott described the committee as the first step.

Council Member Robert Troiano said the country club is also in his district and questioned whether the homes within his district were included in the remedial committee. Scott said the process is beginning in his district and criticized Troiano for not acting sooner.

“You were here as a council person through that time,” Scott said. “At any time did you say, ‘Oh my god let me see what houses were affected,’ because I’m sure there were houses that were affected in Westbury? If you decided – hold on, sir – if you decided that you didn’t want to do anything from 2004 or your term here as councilperson for your districts, that’s fine. I’m a different councilman. I am going to go to bat for my residents that got basically screwed over.”

Council Member Christine Liu countered Scott’s accusations by clarifying that the Roslyn Country Club was not in Troiano’s district until this year due to recent redistricting, therefore he wouldn’t have acted previously.

Troiano said it’s not a conversation about him or Scott but concerns equity for all town residents affected to be included. He called the committee’s focus only on the District 2 portion of the country club “bias.”

Town attorney Richard Nicolello called the limited area within the country club the “epicenter of this problem.”

Troiano said he took issue with the committee only focusing on the Roslyn Country Club, rather than addressing all the residents affected.

Councilman David Adhami said solutions the committee proposes could also apply to other homeowners affected. He also encouraged Troiano to establish his own.

But Troiano argued that resolutions proposed could apply to specific homes within the country club and not be applicable broadly.

The board instead opted to make the advisory committee for the entire country club, not just the District 2 portion, as originally proposed.

In other news, budget season is beginning for the Town of North Hempstead, which presented its 2025 tentative budget Tuesday night.

The tentative budget was filed Monday with the town clerk and provided to board members Tuesday night.

DeSena said the budget will keep tax rates at their current levels—therefore, it will not increase or cut them. She described it as a “freeze.”

Westbury, Carle Place resident Pete Gaffney suggested the board lower taxes by bolstering department revenues. He suggested ideas like establishing a moratorium on illegally developed housing that would generate revenue through homeowners filing the proper permits and increasing penalties.

A series of meetings will be held to discuss the budget over the next month. These include a work session on Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. and a hearing on Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. On Oct. 29, a vote to finalize the budget can be taken.

ProstaStream Reviews – Must Read This Before Buying

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ProstaStream Prostate Health Supplement

Unlock the potential of Prostastream, a trusted prostate supplement. Formulated with natural ingredients, it supports prostate health and overall wellness.

✅ Click to Visit the Official Website

What is Prostastream?

Many men face frustrating challenges with prostate health as they age. Common issues include frequent urination, sleep disruptions, and discomfort. These problems can really affect your life’s quality. But what if there was a natural way to regain your energy and control over your prostate health?

That’s where Prostastream comes in. Prostastream, a new supplement, targets the primary causes of prostate issues.

How Does Prostastream Work?

Prostastream is a prostate health supplement that addresses the primary factors contributing to poor prostate function. It uses natural ingredients to reduce inflammation, shrink an enlarged prostate, and improve prostate health. The ingredients in Prostastream target different aspects of prostate health, helping with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other age-related issues.

The prostastream mechanism of action is a multi-faceted approach. Ingredients like Saw Palmetto Berries and Graviola Leaf block the conversion of testosterone into DHT, a hormone that can cause prostate enlargement. The prostastream formula also includes a mushroom blend, which boosts immune function and controls inflammation.

Moreover, the prostate benefits go beyond just prostate health. It can boost energy, mood, and overall well-being. It also aids in uninterrupted sleep by reducing excessive nighttime urination, a common symptom of an enlarged prostate.

Prostastream is a natural solution backed by clinical research and scientific evidence. It aims to provide a safe and effective way to keep your prostate healthy as you age.

✅ Click to Visit the Official Website

Prostastream Ingredients

ProstaStream carefully crafts its formula using potent ingredients. It includes saw palmetto berries and graviola leaf. Additionally, it incorporates a trio of mushrooms: maitake, reishi, and shiitake. This mix aims to tackle prostate issues from different sides.

Saw palmetto berries

Saw palmetto berries help with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other prostate issues. They contain compounds that reduce inflammation. They also stop testosterone from turning into dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that can make the prostate bigger.

Graviola Leaf

Graviola leaf is beneficial for prostate health. It reduces inflammation and boosts antioxidant activity. It may also fight prostate tumors, according to research.

Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake mushrooms

This trio of mushrooms is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. They help with prostate function. They are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting effects.

Cat’s Claw

Cat’s claw is an Amazonian herb that fights inflammation and boosts the body’s defenses. People have used it for many health issues, including prostate problems.

Tomato Fruit Powder

Tomato fruit powder is full of lycopene, a strong antioxidant. It’s beneficial for prostate health. It may lower prostate cancer risk and ease enlarged prostate symptoms.

Pygeum Africanum

Pygeum africanum is derived from the bark of an African cherry tree. People have been using Pygeum africanum for centuries to address prostate issues. It reduces inflammation, improves urine flow, and supports the prostate.

Green tea extract

Green tea extract is in ProstaStream because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It protects the prostate and keeps the urinary tract healthy.

Broccoli Leaf Extract

Broccoli leaf extract is full of sulforaphane. This compound fights cancer and inflammation. It helps to keep the prostate healthy and reduces the risk of prostate issues.

Selenium

Selenium is a key mineral for prostate health. It has antioxidant properties. It may lower prostate cancer risk and improve urine flow.

ProstaStream Label

Benefits of Prostastream

Prostastream is a supplement made to help with prostate health and overall well-being. It aims to tackle the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This condition is common in men as they get older.

Natural ingredients such as saw palmetto berries and Graviola leaf are included in the formula. These are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the prostate. This can improve urinary flow and reduce the need for frequent bathroom trips, even at night.

  • Supports healthy prostate function and size
  • It enhances urinary flow and reduces the need for frequent urination.
  • Promotes overall prostate health and well-being
  • It boosts energy levels and supports a healthy immune system.
  • Contains a unique blend of organic, non-GMO ingredients

Prostastream also promotes overall health and vitality. Ingredients like maitake mushroom and green tea extract have antioxidant properties. They help support the immune system. This can lead to more energy, better sleep, and a general feeling of well-being.

“After using Prostastream for a few months, I noticed a significant improvement in my urinary flow and a reduction in the frequency of nighttime bathroom trips. I feel more energized and focused throughout the day.”

Prostastream is a comprehensive solution for men wanting to support their prostate health and overall well-being. Its natural ingredients and potential to address prostate issues make it a valuable addition to any man’s health routine.

✅ Click to Visit the Official Website

Pros

Prostastream offers many benefits for prostate health. It uses natural ingredients that are safe and effective. We test these ingredients to ensure they are free from harmful substances.

Another excellent point is its price. It’s affordable, with free shipping in the US. This makes it easier for people to take care of their prostate health. Plus, there’s a 60-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free try.

High-standard facilities manufacture Prostastream. This ensures it’s safe and reliable. This focus on quality and safety builds trust in the product.

  • Clinical testing ensures the use of high-quality, natural ingredients.
  • Free from chemicals, toxins, and stimulants
  • Reasonably priced, with free US shipping.
  • Backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Manufactured in FDA- and GMP-certified facilities

In summary, Prostastream stands out for its safety, effectiveness, and cost. It’s a solid choice for men looking for a natural way to support their prostate health.

Cons

Prostastream offers many benefits, but it also has some drawbacks. One issue is that you can only buy it on the official Prostastream website. This might be a problem for some people. When the product is out of stock, delivery may be delayed.

However, the 60-day money-back guarantee and the positive reviews help make up for these issues. Customers can try the product without worry, knowing they can get a full refund if they’re not happy.

Another disadvantage of prostastream is its limited availability. Only the official website sells it, making it less accessible than other supplements. This could be a prostastream limitation for those who like to shop at local stores or other online sites.

Despite these cons and disadvantages, the benefits of Prostastream outweigh them. The money-back guarantee and positive feedback show that Prostastream is a beneficial choice for men looking to support their prostate health.

✅ Click to Visit the Official Website

How To Use?

Prostastream is a simple capsule supplement to add to your daily routine. Each bottle has enough for a month. You should take 2 capsules daily, 10-15 minutes before meals.

It’s important to stick to the prescribed prostastream dosage. Taking more than the recommended amount can cause side effects. If you’re on other medications or have health issues, talk to a doctor first.

The prostastream usage instructions are easy. Take two capsules daily before meals. This helps your body absorb the ingredients well.

For best results, use Prostastream for 3-6 months. This lets the ingredients work together to help your prostate health. It can reduce frequent urination and discomfort.

Remember, how to take Prostastream is simple: 2 capsules a day, before meals. Follow these steps to help keep your prostate healthy.

Any Side Effects?

The prostastream side effects are minimal, thanks to its natural formula. Scientific research supports this formula. It follows strict quality and safety standards during production.

Many men have tried prostastream without major issues. Ingredients like saw palmetto and mushrooms are known for their health benefits. They help support prostate health and reduce inflammation without causing harm.

Still, it’s wise to talk to your doctor before starting Prozac. This is especially true if you have health conditions or take other medicines. Prostastream has a strong safety record, making it a good option for natural prostate support.

Prostastream Customer Reviews

Prostastream reviews are mostly positive (Rating 4.8/5). It seems to be a safe and effective way to help. Customers love Prostastream, saying it greatly improved their prostate health. They talk about better urine flow and fewer frequent trips to the bathroom. Many also mention a smaller prostate size.

One user said, “Just a few weeks of Prostastream, and my bathroom trips at night dropped way down. I feel so much better and more comfortable.”

Another customer was pleased with the price and quality. They said, “Prostastream changed my life. It’s affordable and works great. I’m thankful for the brand’s commitment to quality.”

Many reviews also talk about how Prostastream helps with hormonal balance and boosts the immune system. People love the natural ingredients used.

The Prostastream testimonials and customer feedback are mostly positive. It seems like a beneficial choice for men wanting to improve their prostate health. With so many satisfied customers, Prostastream is worth considering for prostate care.

Pricing and Availability

Prostastream is a popular dietary supplement for prostate health. Only the official website sells it to maintain authenticity and prevent the sale of fake products. We set the prices to accommodate a variety of budgets and needs.

The single bottle, useful for 30 days, costs $69. But the bigger packages offer better deals. The 3-bottle bundle (90 days) is $177, or $59 per bottle. The 6-bottle package (180 days) is $294, making each bottle just $49.

Prostastream ships for free in the United States and charges a bit for international orders. You only pay once, with no extra fees or ongoing charges. The facility meets FDA and GMP standards, ensuring quality and safety.

Prostastream has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from happy users. Many men have found Prostastream helpful for their prostate health and overall health. Only the official website sells it, making it easily accessible for those in need.

Where to buy?

Would you like to try Prostastream for your prostate health? It’s simple to find. You can only buy it on the official website. This ensures you receive the genuine product and benefit from exceptional customer service.

The official Prostastream website is your go-to for ordering. It offers secure and easy ways to buy. You can choose from single bottles or packs of more. Prices start at $69 per bottle, and you can save with bigger orders.

Buying from the official site has its perks. You get a 60-day money-back guarantee. This lets you try Prostastream without worry. If you’re not happy, just contact customer support for a refund.

To purchase Prostastream, just visit the official website. Pick the right package for you and finish the checkout. The site ships swiftly and discreetly, so you get your order quickly and quietly.

Don’t miss out on improving your prostate health with Prostastream. Visit the official website now and start your journey to better prostate health.

Money back guarantee

Trying new supplements can be a gamble. But ProstaStream offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. This means you can try it risk-free. If you’re not satisfied with the results, you can get a full refund within 60 days.

This guarantee shows the maker’s confidence in ProstaStream. They want you to be completely satisfied. So, you can try ProstaStream without fear of losing money.

The refund policy and guarantee allow you to focus on your prostate’s health. If ProstaStream doesn’t work for you, just ask for a refund. This demonstrates that ProstaStream cares about your wellbeing.

“The 60-day money-back guarantee was a big factor in my decision to try ProstaStream. I’m glad I did, as the supplement has made a noticeable difference in my prostate health. But it’s helpful to know the option for a refund is there if needed.”

Over 95% of users are happy with ProstaStream. But the guarantee lets you try it without worry. Take advantage of this opportunity to see how ProstaStream can help your prostate health.

Conclusion

Overall Prostastream reviews are positive and seems to be a safe and effective. The Prostastream supplement seems to be a beneficial choice for prostate health. It has a science-backed mix of ingredients. These ingredients help with inflammation and an enlarged prostate.

Many people have shared positive Prostastream reviews. There’s also a 60-day money-back guarantee. This shows the supplement’s quality and safety. It might be a beneficial option for men looking to improve their prostate health naturally.

However, there may not be enough research on certain ingredients. Still, the overall Prostastream assessment is positive. It suggests the supplement could be a beneficial part of a healthy lifestyle.

Before trying Prostastream, talk to a doctor. This is especially important for men with prostate problems or other health issues. Looking at the evidence and what others say can help men decide if Prostastream fits their health goals.

Get It Now

=> Click To Know More About Prostastream Supplement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Prostastream?

Prostastream is a natural supplement for the prostate. It helps with urinary flow and prostate health. It aims to reduce frequent urination and improve overall well-being.

How Does Prostastream Work?

Prostastream’s formula reduces inflammation and restores prostate health. It shrinks an enlarged prostate and eases symptoms. This ensures the prostate works well even as you age.

What are Prostastream’s key ingredients?

Prostastream includes saw palmetto berries, graviola leaf, and mushrooms. It also has cat’s claw, tomato powder, and green tea extract. The formula also contains broccoli leaf extract and selenium.

What are Prostastream’s benefits?

Prostastream may treat BPH by reducing inflammation and shrinking the prostate. This improves urinary flow and reduces frequent urination. It also supports prostate function, boosts energy, improves mood, and helps with sleep.

What are the pros of Prostastream?

Prostastream uses natural, clinically tested ingredients. It’s free from chemicals and toxins. The product boasts a competitive price, provides complimentary US shipping, and comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

What are the cons of Prostastream?

Only the official website sells Prostastream. This might be inconvenient for some. Also, stock may be limited at times.

How do I use Prostastream?

Take 2 capsules of Prostastream daily, 10-15 minutes before meals. Always follow the instructions and don’t take more than the recommended amount.

Are there any side effects with Prostastream?

Prostastream has not reported any major side effects. It uses high-quality, tested ingredients and follows strict safety protocols during manufacturing.

What do customers say about Prostastream?

Customers have given Prostastream positive reviews. They’ve seen big improvements in prostate health and overall well-being. Many praise its effectiveness in reducing frequent urination and addressing an enlarged prostate.

How Much Does Prostastream Cost?

Prostastream’s prices are: 1 bottle for $69, 3 bottles for $177 ($59 each), and 6 bottles for $294 ($49 each). It offers free US shipping.

Where Can I Buy Prostastream?

You can only buy Prostastream from the official website. This ensures you get the real product and avoid fakes.

Does Prostastream come with a money-back guarantee?

Yes, Prostastream has a 60-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the results, you can get a full refund within 60 days of buying.

Local school named a National Banner Unified Champion School

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New Hyde Park Memorial High School was named a National Banner Unified Champion School (Photo courtesy of the Sewanhaka Central High School District)

New Hyde Park Memorial High School has been recognized as a National Banner Unified Champion School by Special Olympics North America.

This distinction recognizes leadership in creating inclusive school communities where all students are accepted and celebrated. In Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, students with and without disabilities take physical education courses together and play on the same sports teams. Students also learn inclusive leadership skills and participate in activities that engage the entire school community to encourage and promote inclusion among their peers.

A Unified Champion School receiving national banner recognition is one that has demonstrated the highest commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 standards of excellence. The standards were developed by a panel of leaders from Special Olympics and the education community nationally. The primary activities within these standards include Special Olympics Unified Sports, inclusive youth leadership and whole-school engagement.

New Hyde Park Memorial High School was among 13 schools statewide to receive this honor this year.

John Lewis Childs School students build truss bridges in Discovery Lab

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John Lewis Childs School fifth graders building their bridges in the Discovery Lab. (Photo Courtesy of the Floral Park-Bellerose School District)

During their first unit in the school’s Discovery Lab, John Lewis Childs School fifth graders are learning about bridges.

Working in groups, the students create truss bridges out of connector strips. Janice Hyland runs the Discovery Lab, which aims to foster creativity, discovery, invention and imagination through STEAM lessons in kindergarten through sixth grade.

Herricks student selected as finalist in NPR Student Podcast Challenge

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Herricks High School freshman AyaSophia Abdrabo was selected as a finalist in the NPR Student Podcast Challenge. Herricks Middle School teacher Michael Heit, left, and AyaSophia Abdrabo. (Photos courtesy of Herricks Public Schools)

Herricks High School freshman AyaSophia Abdrabo was selected as a finalist in the 2024 National Public Radio Student Podcast Challenge.

Abdrabo created her audio storybook titled, “Part-Time Egyptian” as the final project in the Content Creation Foundations class with teacher Michael Heit.

AyaSophia Abdrabo editing her podcast ‘Part-Time Egyptian.’

In her podcast, Abdrabo shares her experience as a teenager with strong cultural attachments to Egypt and the United States. Her podcast includes interviews with her mother, stepfather and grandmother. It explores what it’s like being an Egyptian American and whether she must choose to identify as one culture or find a way to be hybrid.

“We are so incredibly proud of AyaSophia and grateful that she chose to share a glimpse into her family and culture with her fellow students and our Herricks Studios podcast audience,” Heit said in a press release. “Her story was truly told from the heart and had an authentic quality that will resonate with countless students from multicultural families and backgrounds living throughout America.”

Abdrabo’s podcast was one of ten middle school finalists selected from over 2,000 entries from throughout the United States.

Mineola student musicians selected for All-State Music Festival

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Mineola students Shayan Dhar and Nolan Farrelly have been selected to participate in the 2024 NYSSMA All-State Music Festival. From left, Nolan Farrelly, Mineola High School band director Marc Ratner and Shayan Dhar. (Photo courtesy of Mineola School District)

Two Mineola High School student musicians were selected to participate in the New York State School Music Association All-State Music Festival on Dec. 5 to 8 in Rochester.

The students are Shayan Dhar, a junior who will play baritone saxophone in the Jazz Ensemble, and Nolan Farrelly, a senior who will play tuba in the Wind Ensemble.

Over 6,000 high school sophomores and juniors audition for All-State each year and only 600 are accepted statewide. To be accepted, students must receive a perfect score in a formal audition, which includes performance of a solo and thirteen scales and a sight reading exam.

At the festival, Dhar and Farrelly will rehearse and perform with nationally recognized conductors and selected students from throughout New York State. This experience offers them an opportunity to learn and share knowledge with a vast array of talented musicians from a variety of regions and backgrounds.

Students participate in Adelphi’s ‘For the Love of Arts’ program

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The Wheatley School students Dayanna Sinche-Barzallo, Gillian Roberts and Logan Roberts have been selected to participate in a 10-week intensive Drawing and Graphic Arts program at Adelphi University. (Photo courtesy of the East Williston School District)

Three students from The Wheatley School in the East Williston School District have been recognized for their artistic abilities and selected to participate in a 10-week intensive Drawing and Graphic Arts program at Adelphi University.

Senior Dayanna Sinche-Barzallo and juniors Gillian Roberts and Logan Roberts will
participate in the “For the Love of Arts” program from Sept. 22 to Nov. 11.

The series offers high school students the opportunity to immerse themselves in their passion, whether it be business, writing, creating or the performing arts. In addition to honing their skills, participants will build connection with Adelphi University’s faculty and gain valuable insight from keynote speakers and industry panelists.

The program fosters an engaging environment where students can collaborate with
peers who share similar interests.

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