The 2012 chairman of the North Haven Rotary Club’s 4th annual pancake breakfast held on Veterans Day has announced that the profit from the charity fund raiser is twice what it had been in the past, and stated that approximately 1,000 meals were served with “about 130 going to veterans and their significant others.” Nick D'Ambrosia, thanked his committee and was delighted to tell the Board of Directors on November 14th that the estimated net profit was $9,463. Although ticket sales and donations garnered the bulk of the receipts at over $6,000, he recognized the efforts of two past presidents of the club, Rick DiNorscia for donating 17 gift baskets which brought in over $1,800, as well as Nick Casella, who along with his business partner at MedicareCT, Frank Landino, presented a check for $1,250. He was also very grateful for the involvement of the Greater New Haven Rotaract Club for sponsoring a 5k road race at the event, as well as selling numerous tickets.

Also receiving accolades were Mary and Mark Minotti of the Music Center of North Haven and some of their staff and students for providing musical entertainment, including a moving rendition of “God Bless America” during the formal presentation of the colors led by the Commander of the American Legion, Dan Riccio. Included in the list of notable contributors were Bikes for Babes founder, Dan Perrotto, for the bicycle he donated for one of the raffles; Debbie Volain for organizing the book fair; Ellie Mulligan for supervising the high school’s Interact Club which provided invaluable service throughout the day; Mary Jane Mulligan for heading up ticket sales and receipts; and several school and civic groups which assisted in the sale of tickets in exchange for a share of the profits.

The club’s appreciation was also extended to Paul and Diane Johnson for their $250 donation which was matched by Trumbull’s Cooper Surgical, Inc; Brian Havens of the North Haven Funeral Home for donating numerous tickets to the Senior Center; Paul Muzyka for providing a digital camera for the raffles; and the McKnight family at McDonald’s and the management at Dunkin Donuts for their significant contributions. Also noted for their personal generosity were Rotarians Bill Gambardella, Bill Espowood, Nick D’Ambrosia, Mike Hallahan, and honorary member Michael Freda.