HEARTS PW 2024 Red Party

On Friday, Feb. 8, HEARTS PW presented the 2024 Red Party, an annual fundraising event to support the organization’s mission and honor community members who have made significant contributions to the enrichment of the arts in Port Washington.

Honorees with local elected officials and representatives. Bottom row, from the left: Jane Ronis and Joel Ronis, HEARTS Red Party Honorees. Top row, from the left: NY State Assemblyperson Gina Sillitti, Leyalanny Mata (Founder’s Award Recipient), Kevin Scully (Arts Education Leadership Award Recipient), Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jen DeSena, Town of North Hempstead Council Member Mariann Dalimonte, Denise Paredes (representing the office of Jack Martins, NY State Senate)

To celebrate HEARTS PW turning 13 in 2024, this year’s event was a throwback theme to “13.” The event featured a live DJ, open bar, dinner, and great raffles from community businesses and organizations.

HEARTS recognized four community members, for their past and continued efforts in supporting and enriching the arts across Port Washington.

This year’s main honorees were Jane and Joel Ronis, both long-time residents of Port Washington, proud supporters of the arts, and former Board Members of HEARTS PW. Their collective leadership and contributions helped launch HEARTS PW, establishing and supporting programs that have enriched the lives of thousands of Port Washington residents through the arts. Jane was a founding Board member of HEARTS, and Joel later served as HEARTS Board President. They are both still active in several arts initiatives in the community, including the Community Synagogue Theater Company, and Landmark Radio Theater, among others.

Kevin Scully received this year’s Arts Education Leadership Award. Kevin is a champion of the arts in the public school, serving as Director of Creative Arts for the Port Washington School District, in addition to being an educator, trumpet player, and conductor. He also serves as president of the Nassau County chapter of the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education (NYSCAME).

Leyalanny Mata (Founder’s Award) with her daughter Aurora (left)

This year’s Founder’s Award—given to dedicated HEARTS PW volunteers—is Leyalanny Mata. Her passion for the performing arts was borne out of her daughter’s own passion for musical theater. Over the years, Leyalanny has volunteered with many local groups, including HEARTS PW and PortFest, HarborFest, Curtains Up, and currently serves as a board member for one of the great summertime community traditions, the Port Summer Show.

The annual Red Party is a HEARTS tradition that helps raise money for our mission to enhance, support, and promote the arts and arts experiences in our public schools and the Port Washington community. If you’re not able to join us in-person, please make a donation to support our organization and further our work in the community.
Visit heartspw.org for additional information.