UTICA –– The Rotary Club of Utica’s annual “Service Above Self” Gala,
sponsored by Hage & Hage LLC, raised an impressive $18,000 for The Stanley
Theatre this past June. This marks the largest amount in the event’s
four-year history.
The record-breaking total was announced earlier today during a check
presentation held in the lobby of the historic theatre.
The Rotary Club’s contribution will support the thoughtful restoration of the
Red Room, enhancing the theatre’s ability to host pre-show gatherings and
post-show celebrations, explained The Stanley Theatre’s Executive Director,
Lisa A. della Santina Wilsey. The project is meant to preserve the theatre’s
historic charm while enriching the overall patron experience.
“These funds will help kick off the restoration of the legendary Red Room,
which suffered from a flood several years ago and has been out of
operation,” Wilsey said. “This is an exciting time for The Stanley Theatre.”
Reflecting on the success of this year’s gala and its impact, Utica Rotary Past
President and Gala Chairman Stephen Turnbull expressed his gratitude to all
who contributed.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our sponsors, partners and
everyone who supported this year’s Gala,” Turnbull said. “Your generosity
makes a true impact, not only on our club’s mission, but also on our
community’s cultural treasures. The Stanley Theatre is more than just a
historic landmark; it’s a place where memories are made and where our
Gala has proudly found a home. We are honored to contribute to its
restoration and future, ensuring it remains a vibrant gathering place for
generations to come.”
Wilsey also shared her appreciation for the Rotary Club of Utica and its
commitment to preserving the arts.
“The Stanley Theatre couldn’t be more honored to have been chosen by
Rotary Club of Utica to be this year’s gala recipient,” Wilsey said. “It is not
often that an outside organization recognizes the needs of its local
performing arts theatre and commits to supporting it and for this, we are
forever grateful. On behalf of the staff, board of directors, stagehands and
volunteers, we are thankful to Utica Rotary and its gala sponsors and
attendees.”
Since its inception, the Rotary Club of Utica’s “Service Above Self” Gala has
raised more than $65,000 for the community. Past recipients include the
Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI), the Utica Zoo
and the Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL).
