Fundraiser For Young Irish Dancers 'Stepping Off To Dublin'

MATTITUCK, NY — A group of girls excited to be "Stepping Off To Dublin" will soon see a dream come true as they head to Ireland for the CRG World Irish Dance Championship in October.

According to mom Cynthia Cichanowicz, the girls, all students at "My Pulse My Passion School of Irish Dance," in Mattituck, have been fundraising locally, "using their pure talent of Irish step dancing" since December in order to get to the competition in Ireland, for which they've won a spot and a chance to showcase their talents on an international canvas.

There are 10 girls total ranging in age from 11 to 20, including Katie O’Connor of East Moriches, Naomi Cichanowicz of Peconic, Chloe Phillips of Southampton, Caitlin Friscia of Hampton Bays, Tori Alessi of Mastic, Tori Rudnick of Center Moriches, Lila Dailey of New Suffolk, Maeve Bailey of Jamesport, Kate Foley of Aquebogue and Mary Bofinger of East Marion.

The girls' instructor Kyleen Vernon will be traveling with them

Some have been dancing for only five years, while others have up to 15 years of experience Irish step dancing.

To help the girls finance the trip, a new fundraiser will be held Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at CJ's American Grill, located at 10095 Main Road, Unit 8, in Mattituck.

The event will include a choice of linguini with meatballs, rigatoni alla vodka, chicken Francese, or salmon with teriyaki glaze and wasabi drizzle. Takeout is available.

The girls will also be dancing at the fundraiser.

Tickets cost $20, and the event also includes fun drinks, 50/50 raffles and a Chinese auction.

"Join us for a fun filled summer evening and help these girls get “across the pond," organizers said.

Patch courtesy photo.