SEPTA Celebrates at Sunset Gala
The Special Education PTA's fourth annual Sunset and Sounds on the Bay gala at the Bay Club in Huntington celebrated another year of achievements for an organization that has become an essential educational partner in the Huntington School District.
The event drew a crowd of about 120, including school board members, district executives and other administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, parents and friends of the special education program.
This year's gala honored retiring Executive Director of Special Education Vicki L. Mingin and raised $12,000. "We would like to thank everyone who came to the fundraiser for their support," SEPTA co-President Julie Porzio said. "It's always such a great feeling in the room. This community is really motivated to help our kids. Families, teachers, administrators and local businesses all pull together for one great event. This is what makes our fundraiser so successful each year."
The Willie Steel Band entertained gala-goers for the fourth consecutive year and the dance floor remained crowded. Once again the hors d'oeuvres and meal were "delicious" and the desserts were "sensational," according to those attending the affair.
"It was a delightful event held on a beautiful evening," Superintendent James W. Polansky said. "SEPTA outdid themselves. The food, the raffles, the company were all superb and it was all in support of our students. I was privileged to be in attendance."
Raffles included 50 baskets stuffed with appealing items, including an iPad. A live auction generated even more excitement. The annual gala is vital to SEPTA's efforts to raise the funds necessary to support the group's initiatives.
"The event is always so much fun, but this year was extra special in honoring Dr. Mingin," SEPTA co-President Christine Biernacki said. "SEPTA owes so much to her guidance and support and she will certainly be missed. We are fortunate to be moving forward with Nancy Wilson [as the new director of special education] and I am excited to work closely with her next year."
The SEPTA fundraiser seems to get better and better each year. There is already interest in next year's event. For more information contact SEPTA by sending an e-mail at to huntingtonsepta@gmail.com