West Hempstead SHINES a success

Despite the inclement weather, the West Hempstead School District celebrated its first ever “West Hempstead SHINES” event on April 22 at the high school gym.

The special family-oriented festival was sponsored by Assemblyman Ed Ra and Town of Hempstead Councilman Edward Ambrosino, and celebrated health, fitness and environmental awareness in the West Hempstead community.

More than 100 residents turned out for the event, which ran from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Members of the community participated in Zumba and Yoga classes, arts and crafts, health screenings, as well as a 1.5 mile “Running with the Ram” Fun Run indoors.

Members of various groups, including LIPA, Lady of America Fitness For Women, the West Hempstead Chamber of Commerce, among other organizations, were on hand to support and sponsor the event. County Legislator Vincent Muscarella also made an appearance.

“It was well attended — many participated in the events,” said Schools Superintendent John Hogan, who noted that the district has been trying to continue “going green.”

“It was a lot of fun,” he said. “This was very successful, and we anticipate building on it.”