RSS 2.0 FeedThursday, December 8, 2011, Wantagh Seaford Citizen
Theissen Foundation gala brings holiday joy to all
Event draws huge crowd for a good cause.
FIREMAN TO THE RESCUE – As few Jets fan could resist an autograph from the New York Jets Fan #1, Fireman Ed Anzalone was on hand to trade photo ops and signings for contributions.
Long Island’s physically ill and underprivileged children will certainly not be forgotten this holiday season.
That’s because The John Theissen Children’s Foundation once again produced a highly successful Holiday Gala, raising funds to ensure no child is deprived of holiday happiness. With sponsorship support from Seaford’s Universe Appliance and Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the Mulcahy’s-hosted fundraiser was attended by well over 700 participants. Funds were raised by offering attendees a chance to win valuable prizes and entertainment experiences, through raffles, “live” and “silent” auctions. “We pushed the envelope to offer wonderful prizes this year.” said John Theissen. “Our guests won cruise ship vacations, Super Bowl trips, overnight getaways and Broadway show tickets.”
Celebrity and sports star autograph seekers were certainly not disappointed, with appearances by former New York Yankees teammates Graig Nettles and Mickey Rivers, and former New York Knicks star forward John Starks. Their autographs on gloves, balls and bats were received with much enthusiasm when auctioned. Also on hand was New York Jets Fan #1, Fireman Ed to offer autographs. Cindy Bishop of “Housewives of NY,” and Fox 5 News Reporter Jill Nocolini appended the event’s glamour and excitement. Then for some, a nostalgic moment occurred with the appearance of Paris Themmen, who, as a child star, played Mike Tevee in the 1971 film version of “Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.”
While the sum total of funds raised was not yet available at press time, The Citizen learned the Foundation’s 2011 Holiday Gala produced near record revenue levels in its 10th year. According to Mr. Theissen, this year’s goal was to make the event really produce as never before, and for good reason. “With the current recession, the number of Long Island school children currently living below the poverty line is rapidly increasing. We’re bringing them toys for the holidays, but also food and provisions, and medical and dental assistance. Our annual gala revenues are frequently seen as ‘nick-of-time’ assistance.”
To lend your support to the Foundation, bring a new, unwrapped toy to their headquarters, 1881 Wantagh Avenue (next to Hemingway's) between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., before December 19. For details call 679-5098.
As the Theissen Foundation has been doing for the past ten years, your toy will bring a smile to the face of a needy child....always the best medicine.
