The Malverne Historical & Preservation Society and the Village of Malverne held the Holiday Gala on the evening of Dec. 5. The annual celebration, which is held at the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook, provides local residents an opportunity to cheerfully welcome the holiday season while supporting the historical society’s work.
“Our annual fundraiser, the Holiday Gala helps us to pay for the maintenance and upkeep of the Historical House,” David Weinstein, historical society president, said. “It brings the people of our village together to support the effort of the historical society.
“We feel that our house is their house,” Weinstein continued. “They’re part of the history of the village and the preservation of our future.”
Over 100 people attended the celebration. The evening includes dinner, dessert, unlimited drinks, raffles, and dancing. Tickets were $65 per person.
Funds raised during the event help pay for the maintenance of the Historical House, located at 369 Ocean Ave., Malverne, as well as the heating and to replace some of the older windows in the 200-year-old home.
During the gala, an award was presented to Phil Ballin. Former president of the Historical Society, Ballin also organizes the annual Holiday Gala.
“I start planning this in July,” Ballin says. “I make all the raffle baskets, contact sponsors, book the venue, etc.”
He said he enjoys putting together this event that “brings the community together.” Ballin said, “it’s a nice tradition that people look forward to.”
The society holds tours of the Historical House and highlights local historical events during monthly open houses usually held on the third Sunday of each month between 2 and 4 p.m.
To learn more about the Malverne Historical & Preservation Society or to plan your visit, go to www.MalverneHistory.org or call (516) 887-9727.
