Generous Donations from Members Benefit Toys-for-Tots and Local Charities
 

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LAUWE - META4 COMMUNICATIONS

 

Members continued the Chapter’s tradition of donating a bounty of unwrapped toys for distribution to area children through the Toys for Tots program at the Chapter’s 27th Annual Christmas Dinner. The gala affair was held at the Fiesta in Wood-Ridge, NJ on December 4, 2019.

The Chapter has been able to distribute more than 6,000 toys to local charities over the past 26 years. This year the Chapter was able to provide a sizable donation to the First Choice Women’s Resource Centers which is used to purchase goods for babies in crisis. In addition, the Chapter provided a donation of $650 to the Little Sisters of the Poor in Totowa, NJ through a 50/50 raffle.

Members gathered to share the holiday season while enjoying an open bar and an endless variety of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres at a festive cocktail reception before being seated in the dining room to enjoy a full course “surf ‘n turf” dinner.

In accordance with holiday party tradition, Chapter Past President Grace Cruz-Beyer began the evening’s program by welcoming Members, guests and sponsors to the event and lead the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance. A solemn invocation was offered by Chapter Past President Maureen Kalena. Chapter President Adriano Duarte thanked the Membership and the sponsors for their generous support for the holiday event. Immediate Past President Salvatore Zerilli then offered a champagne toast to wish everyone an enjoyable Christmas season. Grace then performed the customary introduction of more than a dozen Chapter Past Presidents to a warm reception from the Membership.

Members and guests enjoyed an entire evening of musical entertainment provided by the Cindi Rand Band. Executives and staff from member banks joined the band for renditions of rock and country songs and traditional holiday classics in a “live” karaoke format.

Late in the evening, Santa arrived directly from the North Pole. Santa made a grand entrance and eagerly posed for memorable photos with Chapter Officers, Members and sponsors alike before hopping on his sleigh.

The Chapter's Holiday Celebration offers the opportunity for Members to enjoy fantastic musical entertainment, caroling, karaoke, as well as providing a better Christmas for underprivileged youngsters and needy moms. Make your plans now to join us next year for another wonderful Holiday experience!

Be sure to view the photo galleries below to relive the event as captured by our roving photographer.