JACKSON – It was quite a night for members of the Westlake Tennis Club and guests who filled the clubhouse ballroom for the 19th annual dinner dance to benefit Autism New Jersey and P.O.A.C. (Parents of Autistic Children).
Linda Lafer, a member of the Westlake Board of Directors, also handles publicity for various groups within the community. She said, “People came out to support the Tennis Club but more importantly they came out to support autism research. We have a final end of the year event that is more for members of the Tennis Club but this is a fundraiser open to others because it is a fundraiser and we want to raise as much money as we can for autism.”
“We like to showcase that our club isn’t just about the sport. We do a lot of other things,” Lafer added. “Unfortunately, right now our tennis courts are shut down. They are being restored. With the popularity of pickleball, that is now an official club too. It is very popular.”
Approximately 150 people were in attendance for the annual fundraiser that started in 2003 by Howard Lazan, a long-time Westlake resident. Lazan’s nephew was diagnosed with autism and in 2007, following his death, Arlene and Steve Friedland decided to continue his mission to enhance services.
The special evening began with a wine and cheese party in the Westlake lobby. Invitees and their guests dressed in their finest attire. The ballroom was magnificently decorated, complete with multi-colored napkins and a floral centerpiece at each table. The musical duo Twice the Spice played songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
Salad, bread and a buffet dinner consisting of chicken marsala, cavatelli broccoli, flounder almondine, and mixed vegetables was served. Soda, coffee, tea, and ice cream roll cake was offered. Wine was available from the bar.
Co-Coordinator Steve Friedland reported that $3,680 was raised through the 50/50 raffle tickets with $1,840 going directly to support autistic children and their families. There were three lucky prize winners announced during the event. Prior to this evening, over $125,000 had been raised through the generosity of the Westlake Tennis Club and other community residents.
“A special thanks to Arlene and Steve Friedland, along with their numerous volunteers, for devoting countless hours to facilitating such a successful fundraiser. The club also appreciates the excellent service provided by Tony Russo and his staff. The support of Joe McClosky, Clubhouse Director, and SuzAnne Smith, Assistant Clubhouse Director, was also invaluable,” Lafer said.
“$1,500.10 was raised for autism services through Kathy Romeo and Karen Farrar’s Sparkles hair events,” Lafer added.
She reminded fellow Westlake residents to bring used tennis balls for shelter dogs, at the request of WAGs, an animal adoption group, to either 33 Shoal Road or 66 Merion Lane.
