PTA Fundraiser is Stylish Affair
It was a fashion show that will go down in Huntington history as one of the best ever. Last week at The Harbor Club in Halesite, Huntington High School and J. Taylor Finley Middle School teachers and administrators modeled fine clothing as PTA members marveled from their seats.
Finley models included Principal John Amato and teachers Matthew Perlongo, Chris Helmke, Vincent Tannazzo, Donna Moro and Annette Stracuzza. The Huntington High School models were led by Principal Carmela Leonardi and included Peter Fusco, Michael Schwendemann, Lauren Desiderio, Joseph Cohen, Bonnie Guarino, Ron Wilson and Bernadette Walsh. Huntington parent Pam Signorelli, who also works at Washington Primary School as a teacher's aide, also joined the fun as a model.
Is there anyone who wouldn't think twice before modeling clothes in a room full of stylish woman? "The teachers and I were a little anxious about it, but what a great time we had from beginning to end," Mr. Amato said. "We were very impressed with everything from the clothes to the food to the raffles. The PTA parents are an unbelievable group. There is nothing they can't do."
The affair, which Dr. Leonardi called "one of the most enjoyable events," came together nicely. "All models, including myself, had a terrific time," Dr. Leonardi said. "The parents were fabulous. The raffle baskets were extraordinary. The climate in the room was friendly and fun. What a great idea! I hope we continue this tradition for many years."
Chairing the event from the Finley PTA was Alicemarie Rorke and Laurene Napurano. Marilyn Maggio and Elaine May handled organizational duties for the high school PTA.
The Harbor Club put out its usual outstanding spread, much to the delight of the big crowd. Rich Signorelli spun tunes. Chris Mitchell, owner of Huntington Village clothier Marshs, emceed the fashion show, which featured his own designs.
Huntington High School fashion program participants were on hand to help sell raffle tickets and circulate around the room in their clothes they designed themselves. Additional designs were displayed on poster boards and on mannequins.
Sweeties Candy Cottage donated delicious chocolate covered pretzels as favors and Main Street Nursery donated all the centerpieces.
"It was quite a show," said Mrs. Napurano, who started the ball rolling on the event last October. "There were unbelievable raffle baskets. Over $6,000 was raised between the two schools."
Mrs. Napurano thought it would be a "great idea" to hold a joint fashion show and get faculty members involved as models. "They were hesitant at first, but the night proved to be a great success! The teachers were able to show their stuff!"