Mayor Robert Palmieri and his wife, Susan, today announced that the Mayor’s Benefit Gala raised over $50,000 total for the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area and the Stanley Theater.
The theme of the 2016 Gala was Brighter Futures! Its mission was to enhance opportunities and potential for Utica’s city youth through structured physical activity and introduction to the theater and arts.
The United Way will utilize its funds to implement the LIVE WELL initiative this spring, which is designed to improve the health of children and increase physical activity.
As a result of the Gala’s success, the Stanley Theater will offer children free theater camp to learn new theatrical skills and enhance their creativity. The camp will offer training from area theater educators, performers and theater professionals for acting, dancing, singing, writing and “behind the scenes” work.
Mayor Robert & Susan Palmieri stated, “By every measure the 2016 Mayor’s Gala was a tremendous success and we thank everyone who supported these worthy organizations and endeavors. We’d also like to specifically thank the many sponsors who exemplify how generous and special our community truly is.”
United Way Executive Director Brenda Episcopo stated, “Having so much support from our community through the Mayor’s Gala will help us jump start our child health and wellness initiative in the City of Utica. With these proceeds we are aiming for a summer launch, at which we will bring together volunteers, businesses and youth to kick off efforts to increase childhood physical activity for the improved health of our community’s kids.”
Stanley Theater Executive Director Jerry Kraus stated, “With these funds, we are planning a Summer ‘Stanley On Stage’ youth theater camp and a production of Alladin II. The Utica students that are participating will do so for free, thanks to the funding from the Mayor’s Gala. We couldn’t have done it without the support of Mayor Robert and Sue Palmieri, our sponsors, the many businesses that donated food and beverages and all who came to enjoy the Gala.”