MILLSTONE — Cupid’s Cabaret is not a shot in the dark.
The Millstone Township Foundation for Educational Excellence (MTFEE) organized the event two years in a row in an effort to raise funds for programs at township schools. Held this year at the Knob Hill Country Club in Manalapan on Feb. 5 and sponsored by Valero, the event garnered $14,000 for the MTFEE’s grant program for the Millstone Township School District, according to a MTFEE press release.
“Cupid’s Cabaret was fantastic,” said Chris and Aimee Duffy, of Millstone. “It brought the community together for an amazing cause. Thanks to all who put it together. The event was a great success.”
Cabaret singers, including Millstone’s Gina Whalen, Rose Shargo and Felicia Grondin, Hackensack’s Mathew Allegretta, West Long Branch’s Jay Giberson and Marlboro’s Sam Levine, performed while guests had cocktails, dinner and dessert. Whalen, a MTFEE trustee, chaired the event. Shargo also serves as a MTFEE trustee.
Attendees enjoyed songs, such as “Fever” performed by Shargo, “Come On-A My House” performed by Whalen and “That’s Life” performed by Levine. The cabaret part of the night ended with all of the performers coming together to sing “That’s Amore.” After the dinner show, the DJ opened the dance floor for those who wanted to dance the rest of the night away.
“The entertainment was wonderful,” said Joseph and Coleen Raccuglia, of Millstone. “It was a fun night to be out with friends, while supporting our schools at the same time.”
The event also featured a silent auction of items, including an Apple iPad, a foursome at Metedeconk Golf Course, a NOOKcolor, and a Sony high-definition video camera. Other auction items included the opportunity to be principal or vice principal for a day, as well as front row seats to shows and events at the three township schools. MTFEE Linda Kay Griggs won $950 from the 50/50 raffle.
MTFEE President Paula Kinsey said, “MTFEE was pleased with the night all around, from guests’ enthusiasm to the spectacular entertainment. It was not only a fun and entertaining night, but it was a financial success in which the Millstone Township teachers and students will benefit.”
Proceeds from the event will help MTFEE provide grant funding for new and innovative programs beyond the scope of the general school budget to enrich and enhance education for the district’s students. Previous MTFEE grants have funded classroom programs, educational opportunities, staff development and state-of-the-art teaching materials. To date, the foundation has awarded more than $390,000 in grants, which have been awarded at every grade level and in every discipline.
For more information about the MTFEE, email [email protected] or visit www.mtfee.org.