Schools

Two Kennedy teams take first, second in L.I. Virtual Enterprise contest

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Two teams from Kennedy High School in Bellmore took first and second place in the annual Virtual Enterprise International, Long Island Region Business Plan Competition.

With the guidance of teacher-facilitators, VEI students create and manage a virtual company, conducting business with other “firms,” nationally and internationally. Students are involved in all aspects of running a business, including human resources, accounting, product development, production, distribution, marketing and sales.

Placing first was team Cupcake Break, which comprises Nicole Barclay, Skyler Brodman, Dante Dano, Halley Davide, Timothy Dillon, Austin Goldman, Zackary Haefling, Zachary Hecht, James Karp, Brandon Lerner, Joseph Marcus, Michael Rejtig, Alan Sorin and Robert VanNess, along with their facilitator Victoria Cardinale.

Cupcake Break runs a virtual upscale and luxurious bakery that specializes in cupcakes. The company offers a customization option as well as a catering service, both of which have helped it to succeed in the virtual business world. Beating 15 other firms in the Long Island contest, the team will compete in March in the national competition against the Top 20 firms from across the country.

Placing second was Team Baja Backyard Accessories, which comprises Daniel Bestourous, Melissa Coluccio, Caitlin DiGangi, Josephine Fealey, Ryan Christophe Fox, Sarah Fradkin, Chad Fuschillo, Melyssa Kannett, Jake Kapoosuzian, Kimberly Knoll, David Leiderman, Jordan Leopold, Alex Levy, Samantha Ovadia, Michael Schwartz, Noah Shulman, Jacob Smart and Steven Weitzman, along with their facilitator Roseann Damato.

Baja Backyard Accessories is a virtual luxury outdoor supply company that provides everything from sidewalk chalk and Kan Jam to outdoor furniture and hot tubs. Its mission is to allow customers to turn their backyards into a paradise in an economy that makes it difficult for families to vacation. Except for their school rival, Cupcake Break, Baja beat all other competitors in the Long Island Virtual Enterprise contest.