Fun Begins at Mandaplay in Wantagh

Photo: The Wantagh community attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the building of the new Mandalay Elementary School playground. Credit: Wantagh School District

It was a community affair as New York State legislators, community members, district and school administrators, PTA members and students came together for a ribbon-cutting celebration to mark the completion of the Mandalay Elementary School playground and to acknowledge those who were instrumental in its building and installation.

Spearheaded by the Mandalay PTA Playground Committee, the new playground nicknamed “Mandaplay” now replaces “Big Toy” and is being thoroughly enjoyed by students.

“This is a true example of the community coming together and making a difference for the children,” Superintendent of Schools Maureen Goldberg said. Sizeable grants were received from the offices of Nassau County Legislators Dennis Dunne and Dave Denenberg, as well as the Wantagh Kiwanis Club, International Kiwanis Club, PTA and parent volunteers provided resources and time to install the structure. Fundraising activities included the sale of engraved bricks, a visit from the Harlem Wizards, an Applebee’s flapjack event and brokerage night.

PTA playground committee co-chairs Roseann Lombardo and Sharon George explained that the old playground needed to be replaced with a more modern version.

“As a parent and past Mandalay student myself, I am so thrilled that the children have such a wonderful place to play that promotes healthy activity,” George said. “It took a lot of hard work from many people to make this happen. I am so proud of what we have accomplished together.”

Former Mandalay Principal Lynne D’Agostino was on hand for the ribbon cutting. Prior to her retirement in June 2014, she worked closely with the committee. To commend her efforts, a plaque was unveiled on one of the playground’s benches to thank her for her assistance in making the playground a reality.

Mandalay Principal Marie Pisicchio explained that Mandaplay is a huge hit with the students and that she enjoys watching them play each day.

“Not only do our boys and girls enjoy themselves during recess, but also the community enjoys this common meeting place,” she said. “Boys and girls, I wish nothing but days and days filled with joy and laughter as you socialize and remain physical on our new playground, Mandaplay!”

Lombardo wanted to thank each volunteer and those who donated funds for the playground.

“It brings me great pride and joy to know the town of Wantagh came together as a community to not only donate their funds, but their time and services so our children will have a new playground for generations to come,” Lombardo said.

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