91cabd56dd506d029fbddff64a0c9191.jpg

HIGHTSTOWN: Star gala ahead for Better Beginnings

By Jen Samuel, Managing Editor
   HIGHTSTOWN — An annual gala to benefit the children of Better Beginnings is scheduled for April 28.
   Known as the Mayors’ Shining Star Gala for Better Beginnings Child Development Center, the event will begin 5 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza in Monroe.
   ”The gala raised approximately $20,000 in 2011,” said Susan Ackerman on behalf of Better Beginnings. “Our goal is always $40,000. Funds were cut significantly (from) 2011 to 2012.”
   This year marks the 20th annual gala in support of Better Beginnings.
   ”Better Beginnings was founded in 1967 when the need arose for an effective educational curriculum and child care for young children of working parents,” Ms. Ackerman said.
   Better Beginnings, a subsidized child care organization, provides educational and daycare services to 99 children.
   ”The purpose of the gala is to raise funds in order to keep Better Beginnings running from year to year, while honoring ‘Shining Stars,’ people from the community who donate their time, energy and goodwill towards their community and to others in need,” she said.
   East Windsor Mayor Janice Mironov and Hightstown Mayor Steven Kirson are slated to attend the April 28 gala, and were in attendance last year as well.
   The honorees this year include:
   — Gary and Dale Grubb from Hightstown;
   — Shiseido from East Windsor;
   — Walter Daniels from East Windsor;
   — The Red Cross Club of Hightstown High School;
   — The First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury;
   — and Better Beginnings Alumnus of the Year Bryan Screws, who is now a board member of the organization.
   Tickets are $70 per person; the cost includes a sit-down dinner. Tickets will be sold until April 23.
   Ms. Ackerman described the gala as “a lovely evening of music, fun auctions, and celebrating with some wonderful people.”
   The non-profit is seeking donations for its silent auction, which was described to the Herald as a very integral part of the gala.
   ”In the past, we (auctioned) off a week (long) vacation in Florida, electronics, instruments, cosmetics, toys, dishware by Pfaltzgraff, services at local establishments, such as work out centers and auto body shops, as well as gift certificates to eateries in the area,” Ms. Ackerman said. “We greatly thank those from the community who donate.”
   Tickets can be purchased by sending a check to Better Beginnings, 318 N Main Street, Hightstown, NJ 08520. Monetary donations are also accepted.
   Silent auction items donated may be dropped at Better Beginnings or through calling 609-448-6226, or sending an e-mail [email protected].