Manhasset youngsters showed what a great difference they can make during the Manhasset Special Education PTA's Children's Art Show held Friday, Jan. 25 at Barnes & Noble in Manhasset. The exhibit's theme of "I Can Make a Difference" was the message seen in the artwork and the overwhelming participation by Manhasset's elementary students.

The art show kicked off a three-day event-filled fundraiser for SEPTA, who, working together with the Manhasset Public Library, is creating a special needs parent resource section. Barnes & Noble donated 20 percent of all purchases made (showing the fundraising voucher) to SEPTA, totaling nearly $9,000. These proceeds will be used to purchase new books and viewing material on a full range of disabilities, learning impairments, developmental disorders, and family related issues for special needs and the gifted. In addition, several books from the SEPTA wish list were purchased to 'gift' to the new section, which will be located in the children's library.

Over 300 children participated in the art show, proudly displaying how each one will make a difference. The artwork showed children exploring new galaxies, helping others across the globe, rescuing animals, even making a difference in everyday life like growing flowers to make others smile and doing household chores like folding laundry. Some children even partnered in making the artwork, illustrating how working together with others is how they can make a difference.

Together, the children did make a great difference. All the students, which included regular education, gifted, disabled and special needs students, expressed how they are contributing members who have purpose and make an impact on their world. By having their artwork hung side-by-side with their peers, the children also showed how sensitivity and tolerance of other's differences gives every child a chance to shine.

That shining pride was seen in the faces of the artists and the families that came to view the exhibit. Parents, siblings, even teachers and staff came out to Barnes & Noble in Manhasset all weekend long to view the art show. Dr. Jean Kendall, Munsey Park principal, stated, "We are so proud of our student's participation!" Munsey Park Assistant Principal Dr. Charles Leone added, "We are also delighted how they have brought us all together today with such a powerful message."

SEPTA's event chairperson Andrea Costello noted, "Celebrating every child's ability to make a difference, that they matter and they do have an impact in our community, is a wonderful lesson these children have taught us today!"

Other events during the three-day fundraiser included an author book reading and family magic show. Nick Katsoris read his Loukoumi the Lamb series and highlighted how every child can do anything in life. Jenn Kramer, a 15-year-old student, performed a family magic show. Teresa Reid, community relations manager at the Manhasset Barnes & Noble stated, "What better way to echo the art show's theme than seeing another kid following her dream!"