It's March Madness for
Blue Devil Boosters
Supporters of the Blue Devil athletic program filled Christopher's Courtyard Café last Sunday afternoon as a crowd of about 75 turned out for the Huntington Booster Club's March Madness fundraiser in Huntington village.
The group has raised nearly $150,000 over the past few years to support numerous initiatives, from grants and the refurbishment of facilities to equipment purchases and scholarships.
This year's March Madness event drew coaches, alumni, parents, school trustees and an assortment of other Blue Devil supporters. For three hours, people streamed in and out of the restaurant.
The upbeat party featured a number of hot dishes and brought good friends together. "It was nice to see such a big turnout on a rainy day," Huntington Booster Club President Barbara Cutrone said. "Everyone seemed to have a good time."
After essentially dissolving following a period of relative inactivity, the Booster Club has enjoyed a remarkable renaissance and has played a key large role in promoting athletic excellence across grades 7-12.
This year's Huntington Booster Club officers include Barbara Cutrone (president), Bill Hughes (vice-president), Christine Beck (corresponding secretary), Carol Scully (fundraising coordinator), Jodi Biernacki (recording secretary), Barbara Napolitano (treasurer), Steve Thompson (alumni coordinator), Christina Plant (Finley representative) and Tim Pillion (high school representative).
Club members have been a visible presence at athletic games, selling food and refreshments as a service to fans and as a means of raising funds. To continue its mission, the group is hoping to attract others who would like to pitch in and help. Those willing to participate can contact Mrs. Cutrone at Hizees@aol.com at their convenience for more information.
During her remarks to the big crowd last Sunday afternoon, Mrs. Cutrone noted that her time as president will end next year and there is a need to newcomers to get involved. However, those in attendance responded with a spontaneous chant of "Four more years; Four more years; Four more years; Four more years."
The Booster Club relies on an October golf outing and dinner, $20 family memberships, refreshment stand sales, summer sports camps and the March Madness event to fund its projects.
"We're grateful for all the Booster Club has done to enhance the experience enjoyed by our student-athletes," Superintendent John J. Finello said.