Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to host 65 Roses Gala

           The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Northeastern New York  has announced their main event, 65 Roses Gala presented by First Niagara, at the exclusive Fasig Tipton horse auction house on Opening Day of the 150th Season of the Saratoga Race Track. 

          The event will honor three special individuals, Kevin and Sari O’Connor; and Eric Cassalina. According to the press release, "Kevin O’Connor is a co-founder and the CEO of TechValley Communications.  Sari O’Connor is Chief Development Officer with Northern Rivers Family Services and has dedicated her career to the well-being of children and families.  Together, Kevin and Sari support families, community and economic matters in the Capital Region.

            Eric Cassalina is a 21 year old who lives with cystic fibrosis.  He is in his fourth year at Marist College in Poughkeepsie and works part time at Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union. Eric has worked tirelessly along with his parents, Margarete and Marc Cassalina, to create awareness and more importantly to raise funds for cystic fibrosis research.  Eric lost his sister Jena, when she was only 13 in 2006 to cystic fibrosis.  Eric continues the fight on her behalf." 

            According to press notes, "CF is a genetic disease affecting 30,000 children and adults in the United States.  It causes the body to produce abnormally thick, sticky mucus, which leads to chronic and life-threatening lung infections that lead to an untimely death. Since 1955 when the Foundation was established, the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a nonprofit donor-supported organization, has been to assure the development of the means to cure and control cystic fibrosis and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease." 

           Entertainment will be provided by the party band, the New York Players. The evening will also include a cocktail hour, four themed  dinner stations featuring a variety of culinary chooices from steak and seafood to lamb and pastas, as well as many other choices designed by Angelo Mazzone. Specialty Saratoga-style drink stations, passed champagne, open bar,  live and silent auctions,  and conversations with racing enthusiasts will also be part of the night.

             The 65 Roses Gala at Fasig Tipton will offer a unique opportunity to experience the famed auction house, and its recent $15 million renovation.