The Long Island Museum (LIM) held its highly anticipated Winter Gala on November 4, 2023, a festive event that honored the LIM’s newly formed Emeritus Board and exceeded their goal to raise substantial funds for the Museum’s exhibitions, programs and a critical capital project.
The gala, a holiday kickoff for the community, showcased the Museum’s dedication to education and the arts, raised over $119,000. Guests were treated to an evening of fine dining by Villa Sorrento, live entertainment by Tom Manuel and The Jazz Loft All Stars, and to a silent auction featuring original artwork by renowned local artists and unique items.
A highlight of the evening was the live challenge which generated over $26,000 in support of the Museum’s urgent need for a new roof for its Art Museum. As the Art Museum looks forward to celebrating its 50th anniversary in the spring of 2024, this essential project will ensure the preservation and protection of the LIM’s invaluable art collection for generations to come.
The Emeritus Board, comprised of ten esteemed former members of the LIM Board of Trustees who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and leadership in furthering the mission of the LIM, was celebrated for their invaluable contributions to the institution. The LIM Emeritus Board includes: Daniel M. Bagatta, Esq, Thomas M. Buonaiuto, James J. Carpenter, Marian Conway, PhD., Dr. Richard Dranitzke, Guy W. Germano, Esq., Linda U. Margolin, Esq., Dr. Ather Mirza, Richard B. Russell, James M. Wicks, Esq.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity and support shown by our community during this gala. The funds raised will have a transformative impact on the Long Island Museum, allowing us to safeguard our cherished collection and continue providing enriching exhibitions and educational programs,” said Sarah Abruzzi, Co-Executive Director of the LIM.
The Long Island Museum extends its heartfelt appreciation to all honorees, sponsors, donors, attendees, and volunteers who made this event a resounding success. Sponsors for the event included: Platinum Sponsor, Robert Lourie and Ivana Stolnik-Lourie; Gold Sponsors, Capital One, The Ferentinos Family; Silver Sponsors, Flushing Bank, KM Simmons Inc., Bronze Sponsors, Germano & Cahill, Jefferson’s Ferry, KPMG, New York Community Bank, Office Furniture Warehouse, Friends of the Emeritus Board Sponsors, Fred & Debbie Bryant, Lois & Joe DeLuca, Quinn & Feiner, Shea & Sanders Real Estate, The North Suffolk Garden Club; Music Sponsor, Elizabeth Kahn Kaplan, Maspeth Federal Savings; Valet Sponsor, Molly Ferro; Cocktail Sponsor, New York Community Bank Foundation; Wine Sponsor, RGNY.
“Together, we are building a stronger foundation for the arts in our community,” said Joshua Ruff, Co-Executive Director of the Long Island Museum. “And we are so very happy to welcome the newly formed Emeritus Board.”
For more information about the LIM and its upcoming programs and exhibitions, please visit longislandmuseum.org.
About the Long Island Museum
Located at 1200 Route 25A in Stony Brook, the Long Island Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate dedicated to enhancing the lives of adults and children with an understanding of Long Island’s rich history and diverse cultures. Museum hours are Thursday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information visit: longislandmuseum.org.
