“Let’s Go Fly A Kite”

by David Bernstein

Friends of Zachary,

Last night Deena, Matthew and I were invited to attend the Lynbrook South Middle School Spring Concert. This was a bitter sweet moment for us considering this is the start of a “Year of Firsts’” since Zachary was not physically with us to participate but certainly in spirit. Both Matthew and Zachary have been fortunate to participate in the Lynbrook Music program over the years attending Waverly Park Elementary and most recently Lynbrook South Middle.  Music has been so important and invaluable in our families’ growth and development.  We took great pride and enjoyment as our children participated in chorus and band over the years and every year we are amazed how the level and quality of the program amplified from the year prior. This year was no exception.

The 6th grade chorus program led by Ms. Annie Pasqua, Choral Director was fantastic. I spoke to Ms. Pasqua a few weeks prior with a personal request. I asked her if there was a way to incorporate the song “Let’s Go Fly A Kite”, recently presented in the 2013 hit movie, Saving Mr. Banks.  Disney’s “Saving Mr. Banks,” inspired by the extraordinary, untold backstory of how Disney’s classic “Mary Poppins” made it to the screen. This movie was seen by Zachary and Haydan Bloomberg during a rough time when Zachary was going through treatment. It was such an uplifting scene and the music so inspired Zachary and Haydan to sing the song individually or as a duet. It was like listening to Sonny and Cher or Donny and Marie.  They sang it over and over and over.  I was pleased to learn that Ms. Pasqua was kind enough to fit another song into her set and to our amazement, we were somehow transformed back to the movie where it all began.

The opening introduction was presented by Jared Moreida and Ms. Pasqua as they both presented the song in honor of Zachary. Matthew made a special appearance as he accompanied the song and choir with added percussion elements. For your pleasure, I attached the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz5XED6R0OI) of the song to this site for your review. I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you how moved my family was to hear these beautiful kids sing their hearts out for our Zachary. It was bitter sweet to hear a song that Zachary was so fond of.

My family would like to pay special Thanks to, Ms. Margaret Ronai (Principal, Lynbrook South), Ms. Annie Pasqua (Choral Director, Lynbrook South),  Mr. Edward Leone (Band Director, Lynbrook South),  Mr. Jason Melecio (Orchestra Director, Lynbrook South), Mr. Joseph Pallotta (Director of Fine and Performing Arts, Lynbrook Schools) & Dr. Melissa Burak (Superintendent of Schools, Lynbrook) for their continued support of the music program at Lynbrook Schools. It really was a night to remember.

I saw this quote online and thought it was very appropriate…

“I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.” Billy Joel

Yesterday is gone, live for today, let tomorrow be your inspiration and future.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Mothers Day.

Our sincerest appreciation,

Deena, David, Matthew, (Zachary), Molly.

“It Takes A Village”