Brewster Sports Foundation Raises $20,000 at Gala

Mike Biondi Once again the greater Brewster- Southeast community has risen to the top!

Last Saturday before a SRO audience at the Starr Ridge Manor Banquet Hall, the Brewster Sports Foundation raised $20,000 to revitalize athletic fields for both the school and residential communities in greater Southeast.

Through the foundation’s efforts, a $1 million challenge grant from the Starr Foundation was obtained in 2009, and by creatively combining the grant with private fundraising, a bond was approved by Brewster School District residents last year authorizing the construction of a turf field at Brewster High School.

Brewster Sports Foundation President John Frates told the enthusiastic audience “our field is on schedule and will be completed by the end of December.”

Frates said the foundation would not rest on its laurels: “We are now looking to identify other athletic projects to enhance greater Brewster by working very closely with the school district to define and prioritize school based and foundation based projects. Before we move on, we will focus on completing the new turf field by providing restroom and concession facilities and even locker rooms if feasible.”

Mike Biondi Frates said while the work is far from completed, “we are looking toward the community for support as well as providing a voice where needed. New ideas are always welcome, as are new dedicated team members who want to make a difference.”

Frates publicly thanked the Starr Foundation for “helping us to provide first class facilities for our children.” He also commended the Brewster Board of Education, headed by Dr. Stephen Jambor, and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jane Sandbank and her staff for their continued support: “Without the help and cooperation, reaching our goals would be a helpless task.”