Community Corner
West Islip Family Hosts Gangster-Themed Fundraiser
Good Samaritans throw party, raise money for a worthy cause.
The Valenti family of West Islip knows how to throw an unforgettable a party, or better yet, an unforgettable fundraiser. Last year it was a Michael Jackson Thriller-themed event. This year, the Good Samaritans of Secatogue Lane West invited friends, families, hoodlums, big shots and mafia members to take part in their gangster-themed event at their beautiful home on the Great South Bay.
"My brother and I love pulling friends and family together," said Ricky Valenti, brother of the host, Tommy. "There is nothing better than having a good time while raising money for a good cause."
All it took was a $20 entrance fee to access an underground world full of food, drinks, 50/50 raffles and mock-table games. All proceeds of the event were donated to the Kiwanis Club of the Bellmores, whose primary goals are helping children and promoting the ideals of service to future generations.
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"It is amazing the amount of hard work that went into this fundraiser," said Mark Meyerowitz, former president of the Kiwanis Club of the Bellmores. "I will say that the Valenti's continue to give back to the community where they work. 100 percent of whatever is raised will be used to provide support for the families that the Kiwanis identifies."
An important note about the party is that the entire family was involved; Tommy, his wife Claudette, daughter Bianca, 10, and brother Ricky all aided in its success. At 10 p.m., Claudette, Bianca and the Bada Bing girls (from Kutting Kraze Hair Salon in Bellmore) took part in a choreographed dance routine that had the large crowd buzzing.
Find out what's happening in West Islipwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Bob Kaich, another Good Samaritan, was there to support the Valenti's and promote another fundraiser event on July 24 at the Awixa Castle in Bay Shore. All the proceeds of that event will go to the Kiwanis Club of the Islip's Bay Shore Foundation.
"The fundraisers the Valenti's and I sponsor are dynamite," Kaich said. "With the amount of money you spend on a night out on the town, why not spend it here, and support a good cause."
For more information about the Awixa Castle event on July 24, visit www.awixacastle.com/party.html
For more information about about the New York District Kiwanis Club, vist http://www.kiwanis-ny.org/
