Special Events

35th Annual Dinner Dance
By Barbara Murray

It was a watershed event in Veritas Villa history: At the 35th Annual Veritas Villa Dinner Dance held at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Queens, October 24, 2008, the curtain fell on Veritas Villa, Inc. and raised on The Villa Foundation, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a legacy in the field of chemical dependency treatment. The moments of clarity were as frequent and illuminating as the camera flashes popping amid the crowded ballroom. Over 400 attendees were on hand to partake of a delightful menu and enjoy the company of colleagues, friends and alum.

Guests dressed in sharp business attire filed onto the 21st Floor where they were greeted by Villa Management and Dance Committee Chairpersons before filing into the reception area where they were treated to delicious assortment of hors d’oeuvres. Guests were seated in the Banquet Room as the evening’s program of speakers was introduced by Ken Lavery. The theme of the 35th Villa anniversary was two-fold. The evening not only acknowledged the long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship among Management, Labor and the Recovery Community, but it focused on the future of The Villa Foundation, with a mission and a philosophy transcending the confines of the physical bricks and mortar of any one building with a home in Kerhonkson, NY. Ken Lavery began the Program by taking time to honor the memory of Godfrey Morris for his commitment to recovery and work with Friends of the Villa.

Godfrey’s wife, Chris was on hand to accept a plaque on her husband’s behalf which also credited her with playing a major role in Godfrey’s work. Representing Labor Assistance Professionals (LAP), Harry Farrell, President of Local 1-2 (Utility Workers) thanked The Villa for its role in the developing a healthy and productive workforce, presenting Jim and Sue Cusack with award plaques for their tireless efforts on behalf of management and labor. Co-founder of The Villa, Jim Cusack elaborated on Mr. Farrell’s comments regarding the importance of the wellbeing of the workforce and management’s responsibility to labor. He offered a message of mutual aid and positive reinforcement, to ensure a strong, healthy economy.

Jim segued his remarks regarding ideals and principles to an introduction of the evening’s keynote speaker, Commissioner of the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), Karen Carpenter-Palumbo. Ms. Palumbo’s address was compelling, forceful, persuasive and optimistic. She welcomed the relationship The Villa had chosen to forge with New York State and encouraged the association pointing up the advantages in the field of chemical dependency treatment.

She began her address with a touching message of hope and renewal by inviting her Communications Director, Rachael Murphy to read a letter of tribute she had written about her father’s journey in Recovery which took root at Veritas Villa. Ms. Palumbo’s talk invited members of the Recovery Community to celebrate their achievements and identify themselves as success stories.

Jim and Sue Cusack’s vision for the future of The Villa Foundation has gained clarity thoughout 2008. As The Villa embarks on its 35th Holiday Season, there are many reasons to celebrate. The Philosophy is sound; the Mission, clear; the direction, forward; the message, HOPE.

34th Annual Veritas Villa Dinner Dance
By Jane Brown

“It is possible to live and enjoy life without alcohol and other drugs.”  This statement can be found on the cover of Veritas Villa’s journal which was given to those who attended the 34th Annual Dinner Dance.  This statement proved true for 430 people that evening!

Jim Cusack and Tom Burns

Jim and Sue Cusack brought us all together at the elegant Terrace on the Park reception hall to celebrate the gift of recovery.  Jim and Sue model the importance of taking time to reflect and rejoice.  I was honored to be invited to rejoice with them.

Upon our arrival, we marveled at the beautiful mirrored staircase and rich adornments in the lobby.  After greeting “Villa Family,” we rode up the elevator to the “coketail” hour which was held in en exquisite room in the sky.  The huge windows offered views of Flushing Meadow Park and the dazzling New York City skyline.  The hour was delightful and delicious!  There were mouthwatering choices to fit everyone’s fancy!  Culinary specialties such as paella, pasta, eggplant rolatini, and rings of calamari were to be found.  There was saffron rice, scallops, and mussels.  There was grilled zucchini, roasted peppers, mushrooms, cheeses, and fruit.  There were also carvers present to slice fresh steaks and hams.

Reggie English Con Ed  EAP,  Edward Mitchell, and Andy Ficarella Con Ed EAP

As my taste buds were tantalized, my mind was firing to recall the names of the smiling faces I reunited with.  To see clients who have successfully completed treatment at the Villa made my heart dance.  United high above the ground, contracts, EAP’s, alumni, staff, and family members merged to show support for those “breaking the cycle.”  Spouses and loved ones mingled in a room full of gratitude.  What a sublime treat! Now we were escorted to the Ballroom for dinner and dancing.  Again, we found rich and elegant décor.  When seated, we were each surprised with a Veritas Villa umbrella and given time to scour over our proud journal which was expertly put together by Sue Heath, Barbara Murray, and Diane Kaminski.  Good Wishes, memorials, and congratulations were all included.

After everyone settled, Father Jack opened the evening with a blessing.  Together we offered a prayer of Thanksgiving.  Father helped us recognize out bounty.  Jim warmly welcomed us all and Kenny graciously set the stage for us to embark on an honorable evening.  Tribute was given to Tom Burns for his dedicated work and success in forming programs to spread the message of recovery.  This Honoree is always there to listen and help.  EAP’s were saluted for their passion and assistance.  Pioneers like Jim Cusack and Tom Burns teach the healing importance of families’ involvement.  They are responsible for helping thousands of those blighted by substance abuse find their Higher Power and miraculously repair their lives.

Mr. & Mrs. Steve Coddington
and Roger Hetherington

Seated in luxury, dinner was enjoyed listening to folks like Frank Sinatra.  Tuxedo-clad waiters were bussing all around.  After our meal, the tempo increased and everyone kicked up their heels.  I enjoyed dancing with personal and professional friends.  We all “boogie oggie oggied”, till we just couldn’t boogie no more!

All the movement made a little room for some mini-pastries, cakes, and chocolates.  My husband Greg, and I sipped the rich coffee and the evening wound down.

A lot HAS happened since the conversations held in the back room of Jim’s candy store in Queens.  So many have been prayed for, shown up, and been helped.  So Many have been given compassion, love, and support as they gained knowledge to overcome their addictions.

Five years ago, I did not think it was possible to live and enjoy life without alcohol and other drugs.  Would I ever have any fun?  This question, I am sure symied us all.  I knew that I probably would live.  But I surely would never have any fun.  Dance? Ha!

Well, I was wrong.  I have lots and lots of fun now!  Thank you, Jim and Sue, for a lovely evening.


Featured Employee

Hello, my name is Jane Shulkin LMSW. I am a graduate of Fordham University. I would like to welcome everyone to our website. My passion to help people has been an influence on my professional and private life. I have 31 years of recovery and love working at Veritas Villa. I look forward to meeting you when you visit the Villa.