Gold Star Mothers Hosts 1st Fundraiser in 30 Years at The Engeman Theater

The American Gold Star Mothers, Northfork Chapter, held their first fundraiser in 30 years at the John W. Engeman Theater at Northport on Sunday, July 31, 2011. Through tickets sales to Hairspray, currently playing now through August 28, the John W. Engeman Theater helped raise money for Gold Star Mothers. Before the show, a special reception and presentation was held at the theater, which recognized some local fallen heroes and their families.

The Gold Star Mothers was founded by Grace Darling Seibold of Washington, D.C. Her son, First Lieutenant George Vaughn Seibold, was killed in aerial combat over France in August, 1918. Shortly after World War I the American Gold Star Mothers Inc. was formed in the United States to provide support for mothers who lost sons or daughters in the war. Today, membership in the Gold Star Mothers is open to any American woman who has lost a son or daughter in servIce To the United States.

"Hairspray was a light hearted fun musical that would bring a little happiness and smiles for a few hours. The money we raised will help us with one of our major projects, to feed the homeless Veterans at the Northport VA," said the proud mother of SSG James McNaughton, (KIA 08/02/05), Michele McNaughton, President of the AGSM Northfork Chapter, #61.
"This helps the Gold Star families heal, by being able to help other Veterans. If my son had come back and needed help, I would hope these programs were available. That is why we volunteer, to make sure that these programs are here for our Veterans," she added.

Just as when it was founded, the Gold Star Mothers continues to concentrate on providing emotional support to its members, doing volunteer work with veterans in general and veterans' hospitals in particular, and generally fostering a sense of patriotism and respect for members of the Armed Forces.

Photo attached: left to right Frank Kestler, Chrystyna Kestler, Nick Kestler, William McNaughton, Michele McNaughton, Janet Scherer, Constance Mangano, Tim Scherer and Timmy Scherer

For information on group rates or to host a fundraiser or an event at the John W. Engeman Theater, please contact the Group Sales Department at 631-261-2900. The John W. Engeman Theater at Northport is Long Island's only year round professional theater company, casting our actors from the Broadway talent pool. From curb to curtain, we have made it our business to provide affordable, quality theater in an elegant one-of-a-kind location with outstanding facilities and extraordinary service. The renovated Theater offers stadium-style seating, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, a full orchestra pit, and a classic wood-paneled piano lounge with full bar.

For a complete show schedule and more information contact the theater directly at 631-261-2900, visit the box office at 250 Main Street, Northport or visit www.EngemanTheater.com

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