By Karen Cirino-Barone
Every since Frank Kelly died on Oct. 26 in a car crash on the Belt Parkway where it turns into the Southern State Parkway, his wife Mary Beth and his five children have been sporting little golden guardian angel pins to keep Frank's spirit close and to remind themselves that angels are among them. This past Saturday night, some of those angels made their presence known at a benefit for the family.
A small group of East Rockaway residents were determined to do something special to lend a financial helping hand and to show endless emotional support to a family that lost its leader just one week after his 45th birthday. In less than a month, friends of the family organized "The Kelly Family Fundraiser," a cocktail party featuring raffles and an auction. The evening, which took the form of a cocktail part at the Lynbrook VFW, succeeded in raising thousands of dollars for the family from the about 130 people in attendance.
Event organizers, Denise Giunta, Debi Kienke, Lynn Kakareko, Dom Vulpis and Don Poland reached out to business owners, community members, organizations and individuals for donations. Poland called on local and neighboring restaurants, food service providers and friends to provide the evening's fare. No one hesitated to help. Even East Rockaway High School's home economics classes baked desserts.
Vulpis appealed to New York's professional sports teams. The Jets and Islanders showed their support as valuable donations poured in. The teams provided autographed memorabilia, which was raffled and auctioned off. One item, an autographed official Jets helmet, will be auctioned on E-bay to further benefit the family.
The owner of a local, popular fishing boat also donated all-day cruises. As the circle of angels widened, others gave up their box seats for major sporting events, including both a New York Yankees and an Islanders' game.
"We were overwhelmed with the donations we received," said Giunta. "People really are wonderful."
At the fundraiser Megan Kelly, 16, read a touching poem she wrote about her father's eyes and Marybeth spoke proudly of her decision to donate her husband's eyes to benefit another whose sight will be restored through her selfless act. She talked eloquently about her simple faith and her words, "In giving, you receive," echoed throughout the hearts of all in attendance.
