Our THIRD Recepient ARETA GJICALI

Today our third recepient, Areta Gjicali, received the honor at Long Island City High School's Award Ceremony at their school auditorium. Presented by one of our board members, Ms. Roslyn Sternlieb, she read the following to the audience:

"Stephanie Marie Burgos was born on March 1, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York to a single parent household. Stephanie was raised with two older sisters and younger brother in the Canarsie area of Brooklyn. She attended the New York City public schools until the seventh grade. She moved to Durham, North Carolina where her mother sought a better life for herself and her children. The change from a diverse community in New York to a small town in the south created new challenges. Despite the difficulties, Stephanie rose to the occasion and defended who she was and taught others about her culture.

Stephanie's academic experience was always a challenge met with much struggle as she suffered from a learning disability. Stephanie's talent was not reading or arithmetic but in the fine arts. Her passion: writing, singing, dancing and piano playing. She was a natural born star waiting for the opportunity to shine.

Unfortunately on September 15th, 2005, we lost Stephanie Marie to a horrible accident in Durham, North Carolina. Stephanie's death was a tragic unexpected moment that weighed heavily on the family's heart.

This scholarship was created in her honor. We know she would want us to support someone like herself who dreams to pursue a career in the fine arts. It is indeed an honor and with great pride that we give this scholarship to Areta Gjicali."

With a very loud and consistent applaud from the crowd including whistling and shouts from classmates "GO ARETA", Areta went up to receive her award.

After the ceremony, Areta came up to formally express her gratitude for the opportunity to be the third recepient of the scholarship which included an award of $500 for four years under the condition of maintaining contact with the organization and the family.

Areta is a very eliquent and well spoken beautiful young lady, who received many awards tonight including the "Council of Supervisors' Association (CSA) Award for Leadership", "Department of Education - Cooperation in Government Certificates", and "Judge Charles J. Vallone Scholarship" .

We are very pleased with our selection although it was difficult process to select just one candidate from many potential smart and talented young individuals. To all those who have applied, please continue to reach for those stars and live your dream as we are granted only one life to fullfil them.

Thank you Ms. Sternlieb for not only presenting the scholarship but for helping in the selection of the recepient.

Congratulations Areta Gjicali !