The Somerville Rotary Club has joined forces with the newly established Dreams for Youth Foundation to raise funds for the youth of Somerville and other Rotary citywide charities. The two groups are hosting a dinner and gala benefit on Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 6:00 p.m. in the Plaza Ballroom of the Seaport Boston Hotel.

The event is entitled “Dream Night” tapping into the Dreams for Youth Foundation’s mission of supporting the youth of Somerville and providing inspiration to make their dreams come true. The evening will feature special guest NFL and New England Patriot Hall of Famer John Hannah presenting Inspiration Awards to a group of professionals from various industries such as the arts, media, sports and business. The honorees, chosen as role models because of their success and the effort they put into giving back to the community, include; media personality and CBS4 Arts and Entertainment Anchor Joyce Kulhawik, WBA Heavyweight Champion Johnny Ruiz, well-known restaurateur Joe Crugnale of the Bertucci’s/Naked Fish chains, nationally recognized comedian Tony V., legendary Boston University Terriers Head Coach Jack Parker and prominent Boston lawyer and philanthropist Regina Pisa. Lively entertainment will be provided by The Marimba Magic Ensemble, an extraordinarily talented group of young musicians from the Rivers Music School, performing on a variety of mallet percussion instruments. Additionally, there will be a live and silent auction of treasures donated from organizations and businesses all over the Boston area.

Former Somerville mayor and Honorary Rotarian Eugene Brune, Rotary Club President-elect Rod Laurenz, Treasurer Roland Harvey, along with members Sal Querusio, Grace Abruzzio, Irene Bremis, and Carmen Nappa among others have worked hard to make this a community effort to support a good cause. Mr. Laurenz comments, “Our affiliation with the Dreams for Youth Foundation has given us a great opportunity to supplement our existing charitable works. We’re all working for the common good of our children and our city.” The Rotary Club and the Foundation are striving for 100% of the funds raised in February to go to the young people of Somerville and Rotary Club citywide charities. To date, the hundreds of people and organizations involved in planning and participating in this event are working pro-bono.

For further information on the Foundation or for tickets to the event please call Ms. Irene Bremis directly at 617-623-4650.