Huntington Foundation Gala
is Sold-Out
The Huntington Foundation for Excellence in Education has sold all 225 available tickets for the organization’s 22nd annual gala slated for Friday, February 6 at the Harbor Club at Prime in Halesite.
The evening will celebrate public education and the Huntington Foundation’s two decades of enhancing the experience of students on every grade level. Since its inception, the organization has funded about $1 million in educational grants in the district.
The Huntington Foundation will present its coveted Spirit Award to J. Taylor Finley Middle School guidance counselor Catarina Cain and businessman, philanthropist and community service proponent extraordinaire Christopher Mitchell of Marshs in Huntington village.
“I am thrilled with the anticipated full house, as this is HFEE’s premiere fundraising event,” Huntington Superintendent James W. Polansky said. “The organization continues to do so much for our students and schools as a result of its efforts in so many regards, including coordination of the upcoming gala. It is sure to be an enjoyable night for all in attendance.”
Over the past decade the Huntington Foundation has presented its Spirit Award to Patricia Dillon, Christine Bene, Michelle Marino, Barbara Cutrone, John J. Finello, Doris Quintilian, Vicki Mingin, Beverly Wayne, Lou Giani, the district’s nursing staff, Eunice Marchi and Joan Fretz.
Huntington Foundation officials said those who have not purchased a ticket to the February 6 gala and would like to go despite the sellout should contact Laurene Napurano at laureenn@optonoline.net. There is a possibility that additional tickets could become available.
There are also numerous advertising opportunities for those who cannot attend this year’s event, but want to support the Huntington Foundation’s mission. Visit www.huntingtonfoundation.org for more information about the organization and how to get involved or send a message to Mrs. Napurano about gala advertising.
This year’s gala will begin at 7 p.m. with a cocktail hour followed by dinner, dancing to the live band Laurinda and the Spirit Award presentation from 8-11 p.m.
The planned menu is mouthwatering. Hot hors d’oeuvres include mini Kobe sliders, Kobe franks in a blanket, crab cakes and lobster quesadilla, Cold hors d’oeuvres include vegetable summer rolls, lobster and avocado and spiced hummus along with Harbor Club salads. Entrees include filet mignon, roasted chicken, Chilean sea bass and crispy salmon with asparagus. An apple tart tatin will be served for dessert. There will be an assortment of beverages available. Guests will be given a glass of champagne as they enter the event.
Raffle items at the February 6 gala range from extravagant trips, autographed memorabilia, high quality goods and artwork to personal services, dinners, shows and other spectacular pieces.
The contributions of donors and local businesses and the support of individuals, combined with the persistent work of Huntington Foundation members continues to allow for innovative educational initiatives in all eight school buildings in the district.
The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization. Its annual report may be obtained upon request from the Foundation (P.O. Box 552, Huntington, NY 11743) or from the Office of the Attorney General, Charities Bureau (120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271).