The Huntington School District’s Special Education PTA is tireless in pursuit of its goals. The energetic organization recently held its annual gala at the Head of the Bay Club, raising thousands of dollars, which will be plowed right back into programs designed to enhance the classroom experience of hundreds of students.
Billed as “Sunset and Sounds on the Bay,” the fundraising party was a fun evening for participants, who enjoyed appealing food, live music, dancing, a fast-paced auction and a chance to contribute to a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of the young people attending the district’s eight schools.
Resting high above Huntington Bay, the Bay Club offers views that are hard to match. A crowd of more than 100 turned out for this year’s gala. “Although the day was far from sunny, the evening dazzled guests with a quaint atmosphere and vibrant reunions,” SEPTA co- President Tonya Guandique said.
Superintendent James W. Polansky was joined by district principals Brenden Cusack, John Amato and Lucia Laguarda, Director of Special Education and Student Support Services Diana Rich, Special Education Chair Linda Costello-Roth and assorted faculty and staff members along with several Huntington School Board members.
With the picturesque backdrop creating an unparalleled atmosphere, the evening just had to be a success and it was. It featured four dozen top-of-the-line raffle baskets along with 11 others that were auctioned off live by professional auctioneer Jeffrey Klaverweiden. At one point, Mr. Polansky demonstrated his own auctioneer skills for the crowd.
Some of the more novel prizes included Principal for a Day rights, which some parents happily sought for one of their children.
The Willie Steel Band kept everyone entertained. Mr. Cusack even took a turn at the microphone, giving the crowd an opportunity to hear his sweet-sounding singing voice.
A decadent ice cream bar sponsored by the Palacios family topped off the evening and was popular with everyone in the crowd.
“It was yet another beautiful event hosted by SEPTA, featuring terrific food, outstanding prizes and even better company and conversation,” Mr. Polansky said. “Thank you to all involved in planning and coordinating the event and to the organization for its ongoing support our students, staff and school community.”
A district-wide organization, SEPTA sponsors informative programs, funds grants to obtain supplies, materials and resources to support student programs and awards scholarships to graduating seniors.
Huntington SEPTA’s executive board consists of co-Presidents Tonya Guandique and Liz Lopez; co-Vice Presidents Lisa Hanna and Julie Porzio; Treasurer Jennifer LaVertu (Treasurer); Corresponding Secretary Laura Ubriaco; Recording Secretary Miho Verfenstein and PTA Council Delegates Alice Marie Rorke and Denise Murtagh.
