Senior Center Gala to Honor Michelle Schimel and Anthony D'Urso.

The Senior Center’s Annual Golden Gala take place at the Port Washington Yacht Club on Thursday, October 15.

The evening will feature entertainment by Senior Center Board member and entertainer, Warren Schein, with musical accompaniment by Charles Henry. The event will also include the wit and charm of a unique individual offering a special perspective on the senior community. Author and radio talk show host, Hal (HAL) Spielman, will be the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. A sociologist by training, Spielman spent much of his career in marketing research. He wrote “Suddenly Solo” following the death of his wife. His years of public speaking through his marketing research firm segued well into a career as a radio talk show host.

In lieu of a traditional journal, this year’s gala will feature a printed a digital Scroll of Honor. All attendee names will be listed on the Scroll at no additional charge, with greater prominence for larger sponsors. The Scroll will be at each place setting as well as scrolling on large TV screens with photo montages throughout the evening.

Those who are eager to support the variety of life-enriching programming offered at the Senior Center, but cannot attend the gala, may donate their ticket to a senior citizen. Of course, contributions are tax-deductible.

Michelle Schimel is serving her fifth term in the New York State Assembly. One of Port Washington’s newest residents, she was recently appointed to the Assembly leadership position of Chair of the Majority Conference. Michelle is recognized for her passion on issues that affect New York, particularly gun violence prevention and protecting the environment, most notably water resources.

She is a strong advocate for New York State veterans, increasing funding for the Long Island State Veterans Home, protecting veterans’ access to long-term care and providing vital benefit information to seniors. Her Valentines for Vets program collects and distributes truckloads of personal care products, clothing and valentines to the L.I. Veterans Home and the Northport VA Medical Center. Michelle also hosts Senior Citizen Law Day seminars with elder lawyers and financial planners.

Before being elected to public office, Michelle was a physical therapist and certified wound care specialist at North Shore University Hospital, receiving their highest Award of Excellence. She is an alumna of the University of Pennsylvania.

Anthony D’Urso emigrated from Italy at the age of 21. He spent 30 years working for the NYC Department of Housing, eventually overseeing 300 people and a $300 million budget.

While raising four children with his wife Maria and working full time, he also taught college courses, coached sports teams and helped organizations with fundraising and other efforts.

In 1991, Tony was elected Councilman for the Town of North Hempstead, a position he held for 14 years before retiring.

Tony’s greatest personal achievement is in helping to improve the lives of needy people in third world countries. At his own expense, he traveled around the world to help save children and families from starving, and build homes, schools, medical clinics and libraries.

For information about the Golden Gala and/or the programming offered at the Port Washington Senior Citizens Center located at 80 Manorhaven Blvd., or call 883-6656.