Nearly 100 people enjoyed local wines and good food at “A Taste of Long Island,” a fundraiser held at the Maria SS Dell Assunta Society benefitting Westbury Arts.
A committee of Westbury Arts members planned the menu for the evening. “We tried to resource as much locally as possible,” says committee member Maureen Baranov.
Then Sia Zarisfi, buyer and market manager for Total Wines, selected the wines that would pair well with their choices. At the tasting, Zarisfi provided information about the wines that could be appreciated by neophytes and sophisticated wine drinkers alike.
In the kitchen that night prepping the food were Baranov and Anne and Chuck Albano, and Edith Joseph helped out earlier with advance-prep. A cadre of students from Westbury High School — all members of the Naval ROTC class there — served the food. Ninth grader Sebastian Bonilla loved the experience and looks forward to getting a ribbon for volunteering. Wine pourers Gloria Rosenau and Judy Stone went from table to table throughout the night. The tables were decorated with flowering plants donated by Hicks Nurseries.
“This event brings together many elements of the community,” says board member Stan Turetsky, a long-time Westbury resident and Westbury Arts board member. Sara and Brendan Conlon, who moved to the community just three months ago, said they were eager to be more involved in the community. Sara was immediately recruited for the Westbury Volunteer Corps.
Nyrekia White, a Westbury resident since 2004, was happy to support Westbury Arts for what it has provided for her 13-year-old daughter Joslyn, who attended the program’s art camp for four years. “It’s important that she has a safe space to express herself,” says Nyrekia.
Westbury Arts president Julie Lyon says the event exceed their fundraising goals. “We are so delighted with all the support this wonderful community provides.”
Westbury Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that delivers arts and cultural programs that connect, educate, and inspire our community.
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