Bringing the beach to Oceanside Library

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More than 50 people brought the summer party to the Oceanside Library on Aug. 8 for the Special Needs Beach Party Bingo event.

The day’s festivities included a beach-themed photo booth, an ice cream sundae station and multiple rounds of bingo.

“This program was a phenomenal success,” said Michael Ambrosio, the coordinator of the Special Needs Program. “The teens and adults had an absolutely awesome time and everyone went home a winner with a beach tote filled with prizes.”

Ambrosio said many people helped coordinate the event, including the library’s board of trustees, Library Director Christina Marra and Assistant Director of Programming Tony Iovino.

The beach blast was just one of many special needs programs the facility offers. There are also baking and cooking classes, where attendees learn how to follow recipes, measure ingredients and decorate the final product, and Book Buddies, where participants gather together to discuss what they are reading.

“The goal of our Special Needs Programs is to bring the attendees together,” Ambrosio said, “and offer a first-class experience where we welcome all members of the Oceanside community through educational and social interaction.”