Money, finance topic of talk for Middle School students

New York Football Giants center Shaun O’Hara and two PHS grads in the media world will visit the Middle School June 1 to talk about business and money with middle schoolers.

O’Hara is an all-pro football player for the New York Giants with a Super Bowl ring. Now, he is adding a new role to his resume: children’s author. His upcoming book is aimed at young readers, with the goal of helping them make smart decisions about money by teaching them the basics of finance.

He will be sharing some of his insights from the new book, along with some football life lessons, when he visits Peekskill Middle School students on June 1.

"I remember my dad selling the family car when he wanted to start a business" said O'Hara. "There was no going into debt--no credit cards. My parents taught us to spend what we earned and be fiscally responsible."

O’Hara will be joined in the 10 a.m. assembly by Pete Dominick, a well-known comedian and commentator who is featured regularly on CNN.

And, making this a very special occasion for Peekskill students are two Peekskill High School graduates who want to give something back to their community, Michael C. Skouras, PHS Class of 1984, and Richard B. Bennett, Jr., Class of 1985.

Skouras and Bennett are executive producers who are making possible the publication of O’Hara’s book and are also developing other book and television projects involving sports figures and celebrities. Together with their partner, Eric Salzman, Skouras and Bennett have many years of experience in entertainment, from reality shows exercise videos to radio to blogging. They will also be sharing some of their experiences and advice with the Peekskill Middle School students on June 1. 

"I always felt that coming back to your roots was important," said Skouras. "My high school years at PHS were fantastic and I have always held the community very near and dear to me. I know Rich feels the same way, especially with much of his family still living in the area. “

The team plans on making further presentations to area schools, but Peekskill Middle School is the launching pad. “We are very pleased to have this group of individuals speak to our students,” said Principal David Fine. “The life lessons they will share are immensely valuable.”