Malverne Historical Society Cancels Holiday Gala

The Malverne Historical Society has decided to pull the plug on this year's Holiday Gala.

The glitzy party, which raises funds for the historical society, usually kicks off the village's holiday festivities. This year it was scheduled to take place on Nov. 30, but in the wake of a hurricane and a Nor'easter, the society's board made the decision Thursday to cancel the event.

Robert Powers, president of the Malverne Historical Society, posted this message on Facebook Nov. 8:

It is with a sad heart that I have to announce that the 2012 Historical Society Gala has been cancelled. The board has decided that between the two storm clean-ups and the timing of the Gala we would have limited time to raise the funds needed to have the affair. 

At Wednesday's village board meeting, Malverne Deputy Mayor Joseph Hennessy said the Gala usually costs the society $7,000 to host, but due to Hurricane Sandy, Wednesday's Nor'easter and the aftermath of both storms, the society has not had the time to raise the funds needed to cover its expenses. It didn't secure any sponsorships and only sold two tickets, according to Hennessy. 

Powers added, "I look forward to seeing everyone at The Holiday Lighting and will keep you posted on the Historical Society's 2013 Programs. In the mean time, have a great holiday season and we will see you around the village."