This Week in Clarkstown

By Matt Veronesi

I recently had the opportunity to attend a career fair at the school of my ten-year-old twins, Gabriella and Anthony. As the Superintendent of Parks & Recreation for the Town of Clarkstown, I thought I had a pretty interesting career to showcase to the students. Each student was asked to select three careers they wanted to learn more about during their time at the fair, and of course both of my kids chose me as one of their picks. A smart decision on their part, because I definitely would not have been happy if they skipped their dad’s presentation! There were so many great careers represented at the fair.

One of the highlights was seeing the three different nursing career tables. Each nurse did an excellent job explaining the many paths within the nursing profession. One nurse worked in the NICU, caring for sick newborn babies in the hospital. Another was a corrections nurse who cares for inmates in a prison setting. The third was a hospice nurse who provides care and comfort to people nearing the end of their lives. Other careers represented included a personal trainer, farmer, police detective, civil engineer, firefighter, welder, environmental police officer, and a mental health crisis response professional.

I had a great time speaking with the students about what I do each day and answering their many questions. One student asked me, “What is the best part about working in Parks & Recreation?” I told them the best part is that no two days are ever the same. One day may be filled with meetings, while the next could involve visiting our pools or summer camps, working a bus trip, or attending a summer concert. There is always something new happening, which keeps the job exciting and rewarding.

It was especially fun to see how interested some of the students were in learning about Parks & Recreation. Maybe one day a few of them will even choose careers in the field themselves.

Most importantly, my kids were happy I was there and seemed proud of what I do for a living. It’s nice to still be “cool” in their eyes. Although, I’m pretty sure if the career fair were held at my eighth-grade son Mattingly’s school, he probably would not have wanted me there!

Calling all students attending prom this season! The Town of Clarkstown has hundreds of beautiful donated prom dresses looking for a new home. Why spend a fortune on a new dress when you can find one that is just as special — completely free? Project Prom Magic is taking place at the Pascack Community Center Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Students can come in, try on dresses, and leave with the perfect look for prom. For more information, please contact the Pascack Community Center at 845-371-6650.

Looking to try something new this summer? Join the Town of Clarkstown for a beginner Barre class. Barre is a low-impact workout that combines elements of ballet, Pilates, and strength training through small, controlled movements designed to improve posture, balance, flexibility, and muscle tone. Classes will be held Mondays from June 1 through July 20, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at the Street Community Center. The cost is $50 for the eight-week session.

If Barre is not your style, consider our Sunshine Flow Yoga Series — a six-week yoga program designed for all body types. The classes focus on improving mobility, building gentle strength, and reducing stress. Sessions will be held Wednesdays from July 1 through August 5, from 4:00–4:50 p.m. at the Street Community Center. The cost is $40.

Parents looking for a unique birthday party idea this summer should consider the Town of Clarkstown’s Congers Swim Birthday Party package. Parties are held at the pool at Congers Lake Memorial Park on Saturdays from 12:00–2:00 p.m. and include two hours of pool and party time. Parties are limited to 20 participants. The cost is $250 and includes supervision, equipment, and use of the facilities.

For information on any Town of Clarkstown programs or events, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 845-639-6200.

Have an idea for a future column or a Clarkstown event you would like highlighted? Feel free to reach out to me at m.veronesi@clarkstown.gov.

Have a great week!