Our first Legacy Gala was held on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at Stokesay Castle, Reading. The ballroom was aglow with beautiful flowers and decorations, as well as the smiling faces of 400 attendees celebrating the many gifts, talents, and accomplishments of our special students.
A reception with music by Dave Cullen got the evening started on a festive note. Students of the John Paul II Center Tone Chime Choir, led by Sue Kaczmarek, liturgical music director, provided additional entertainment before dinner. Mike Reinert, our emcee for the evening, kept things moving and delighted the audience with occasional puns in keeping with the event’s cruise theme.
After dinner, remarks and testimonials were delivered by Michael Mizak, advisory board chairman; Mary Adams, principal; Mark Maggs, advisory board member, Mary Gallante, parent; and the Most Reverend John O. Barres, Bishop of Allentown.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the first Halo Award to Jack Horrigan and his late wife, Peggy. The award recognized the Horrigans’ embodyment of the spirit of the John Paul II Center’s mission and their work to ensure the school’s legacy into the future through their loyal and tireless support.
Silent and live auctions raised funds for the school and provided opportunities for attendees to bid on a wide variety of items, including sports memorabilia, wine and spirits, furniture, jewelry, golf and vacation packages, and many other valuable prizes.
The gala was a delightful celebration of our special students and adults and the goodness they reflect to all of us who take a moment to be touched by their gifts and the grace of God. The success of the event was due in large measure to the capable and energetic work of Legacy Gala Co-chairs Margie Mizak and Sue Weisser and the following Legacy Gala Committee members:
- Mary Adams
- Mary Deemer
- Shane Derenzo
- Dale-Ann Farina
- Meggan Kerber
- Michael Mizak
- Mike Reinert
- Turie Sotzin
- Camille Stock
- George Violand
We extend heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and supporters for their generous support of the 2011 Legacy Gala!
