By Donald Norton

The Somerville High School Scholarship Foundation celebrated its 25th Anniversary last Saturday evening, October 17, at the Holiday Inn.

The Master of Ceremonies was Mr. David Wade of WBZ TV, who attended schools here in Somerville as a youngster.

Approximately 200 friends and supporters of the Foundation showed up to honor several individuals for their support and efforts throughout these past twenty-five years.

The honorees for this special occasion were Former Mayor Eugene Brune, who was one of the originals and who has given so much over the years to this charity as well as many others here in Somerville, and still does so.

Barbara Capuano was recognized for all her charitable work here in the city, especially for her work in “Home First,” which generated thousands of dollars for the many charitable causes here in the city as well as to the Foundation over the years.

Harold Cohen, a Somerville native who was the owner of Somerville Lumber and contributed as well to many charities here in city, was also singled out for honors. He started a $40K donation for scholarships to students here with the Foundation.

Elaine Czesniuk is another tireless and enthusiastic Somerville native who has contributed many causes over the years as well as showing dedication to the Foundation from the beginning.

David O’Brien, a former teacher and another dedicated Foundation supporter for the past 25 years.

Marshall Sloane, the Chairman of Century Bank, is another local Somerville native who constantly gives over the years and strongly supports the Foundation as well.

All of the recipients have one thing in common, they all were and are a part of our city and contribute to the many causes here.

The Somerville High School Scholarship Foundation was founded in 1990, and started mainly in the beginning by past headmaster Anthony Fedele and a small group of people who he gathered together who shared his vision. The foundation has awarded nearly one million dollars in scholarships to over 800 students since 1990. The current President is Joseph Favaloro, the Vice President is Anthony Accardi, Treasurer is Elaine Czesniuk, Finance Chair, David Willey, Recording Secretary Sylvia Pinkham and Corresponding Secretary Noreen Santucci.

If you are interested in learning more about the Foundation and its goals and would like to either join in the work or contribute to its efforts, go directly to their website for further information: http://www.somerville.k12.ma.us/scholarship.