Huntington Foundation Gala
Draws Huge Crowd
A huge crowd turned out on a bitterly cold evening to help the Huntington Foundation celebrate public education and honor extraordinary district volunteer Barbara Cutrone at the organization's 18th annual Reach for the Stars gala at The Woodlands estate in Woodbury last Friday.
The frigid temperatures outside couldn't dim the warm glow of a room filled by a crowd of more than 210. The event raised about $29,00 that will ultimately be plowed back into the Huntington School District via grant programs that encourage innovative classroom practices and creative initiatives.
The Foundation presented Mrs. Cutrone with its prestigious Spirit Award for her commitment to excellence and remarkable perseverance and drive in rejuvenating the moribund Huntington Booster Club and helping establish a remarkably vibrant organization that has donated $150,000 in cash and goods to the district in recent years.
Last Friday night's crowd danced, dined and participated in live and silent auctions as Mrs. Cutrone's volunteer service was celebrated with touching tributes from elected officials and fellow Booster Club officer Carol Scully.
Huntington Foundation for Excellence in Education President Carly Burnett said that in an era of fiscal difficulties and budget cutbacks, the organization she leads is more important than ever. She thanked all those who have worked so hard on its behalf. The group has donated more than three-quarters-of-a-million dollars to the district over the past 17 years, funding innovations that would have otherwise not been possible.
"There is no question that the Huntington Foundation has played an important role in the district since the day it was founded," Superintendent John J. Finello said. "Ultimately it's been our students who have benefitted from the organization's efforts. The Foundation has teamed up with our teachers to help provide a wonderful educational program for the young people of this community."
The Foundation's grant programs have made an impact in every school, touching every program by providing enhancements that couldn't be funded through the regular budget.
Array of Items Auctioned
Dozens of businesses and individuals contributed thousands of dollars worth of prizes that were either raffled off or put up for auction at the gala. Professional auctioneer Jeff Klaverweiden proved skilled at coaxing money from attendees for items ranging from a trip to Broadway and jewelry to tickets to a New York Rangers game and an autographed hockey stick, a six-hour charter fishing trip, David Yurman sunglasses, free home heating oil and tea for ten at the Main Street Nursery's glass conservatory, among other items.
Elected Officials Participate in Tribute
New York Assemblyman James D. Conte, a 1977 Huntington graduate, was on hand to present Mrs. Cutrone with a state citation, extolling her service and applauding her achievements. "She is relentless in her efforts to make this a better district, said Mr. Conte, whose wife Debbie accompanied him to the dinner.
Town Council members Glenda Jackson and Susan Berland also turned out. Mrs. Berland presented Mrs. Cutrone with a Town Board proclamation and a town pin, thanking and congratulating the indefatigable volunteer for her work.
This was the Huntington Foundation's night to shine and, indeed, it sparkled. The elegant Gold Coast era surroundings lent an air of grace and dignity to an evening that saw the district's administrative ranks turn out along with many faculty members and hundreds of parents.
Huntington Foundation officials said the more money the organization raises, the more it can contribute for programs and equipment and even support for students who cannot afford to pay for field trips or for the sixth grade Greenkill outdoor environmental education trip.
Once the auctions and tributes ended, the crowd spilled out of its seats and onto the dance floor, enjoying twirls and whirls while nearby fireplaces glowed, conjuring up thoughts and images of a bygone Gold Coast era.
The dance floor was certainly a busy place with district trustees, administrators, PTA officials, teachers and parents simultaneously doing their thing as the band belted out tune after tune. Once the music started, Ron Wilson a Huntington High School dean and athletic coach never seemed to sit down as he was a popular dance partner.
The evening was planned to perfection by event coordinator Karen Dwyer. "It's always an enjoyable evening," said Tim Pillion, a district resident who attended with his wife, Jean. "It's nice to see the community come together like this for such an important cause."
"It was just a great night for public education," Mr. Finello said.