The Skyline Charitable Foundation, officially established last year, launched in grand style on July 6th when it hosted the Seventh Annual Golf Classic at the Village Club of Sands Point. The all-day outing, followed by a cocktail party and dinner banquet, was a winner in every way, breaking records in funds raised and attendance.
It brought in the remarkable sum of over $94,000 for the organizations and causes supported through the tournament: Smile Train, The New York Center for Children, Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and African Soul - American Heart (ASAH).
Buoyed by sunny skies and high spirits, Eva Hatzaki, director of marketing for Skyline Restoration, had to admit – the energy was contagious. “I’ve been hearing and seeing such amazing enthusiasm all day,” said Eva, who has been heading the Skyline team in organizing the event since its debut in 2009. “Fortunately, we’ve always had an excellent turnout, but this year the response seems stronger than ever. Clearly there is magic in the air. It is so heartening to see this, especially after all the hard work my crew put in to make this happen – Best event ever!”
Skyline Restoration CEO John Kalafatis added: “This event offers an opportunity to give back to the community. We have established our role as a charitable organization. To see this reception is wonderful. We are so proud of the Skyline team and grateful to the people we do business with – they responded fully to our request to help and have fun.”
Skyline Restoration President John Tsampas concurred: “The circle of business keeps turning and it’s a win-win situation for everybody involved.”
This year’s golf outing showcased 34 groups that took to the fairways under blue skies in hopes of sinking a couple of birdie putts to claim the title of tournament champion, which RKL Building Specialties managed to achieve. The competitive nature of the event did not stop groups from supporting and cheering on each other as the message of the event was clear- This is not about us, but rather, it is about those who are in need that may be ten, twenty, or even one thousand miles away.
Jessica Ramos, a key member of Skyline’s crew, was moved by the outpouring excitement. “There’s a sincere fulfillment that you get when you’re part of a team that cares about something beyond itself. Skyline works so hard for the City – to bring everyone we work with together to give back to those in need makes you feel great. You know that you’re really working for a purpose.”
M&T Bank and Sika Corporation were the tournament sponsors.
Roy Vollmer of M&T Bank, was clear: “We are more than happy and proud to be a participant again this year. Skyline sees the big picture -- it’s all about helping the community. Skyline helps raise families, it employs people. That’s what they’re about and what we’re about at M&T.”
"Sika was happy to be a part of this worthwhile effort to raise money for such important charities. The Golf Outing was absolutely fantastic and first class all the way," said Joe Vullo of Sika. Sika’s Peter Wenz said, “"Sika and Skyline Restoration have worked together for many years restoring the buildings of Skyline Restoration and the many worthy charities from the early days to the new Skyline Charitable Foundation.”
James Fenniman, AJ Gallagher Construction Practice, who has attended and sponsored each outing through his company, cheered Skyline’s efforts saying, “This brings clients, vendors and charities together. It’s a legacy event.”
All were eager to applaud. Jim Howe, Cowley Engineering, called it “a beautiful outing close to July 4th to support our Wounded Warriors.”
Spiro Markatos, Accura Restoration, was happy to support “a charity for the children” and join the “good networking and good camaraderie with clients – people with the same interests in the same profession.”
The fun and excitement didn’t end on the course, but rather picked-up full swing at the luxurious mansion overlooking the course where the cocktail, dinner and raffle events took place. With everyone in high spirits regardless of their performance on the greens, the event ended in a frenzy of drinks, food, prizes, and good conversation signaling the success of Skyline’s Seventh Annual Golf Classic.
The achievements reached at this outing are a topic of inspiration for other’s to participate in an effort to continue growing the event year after year. The relaxed atmosphere created a memorable night for all who attended and helped raise money to help communities around the world.
Matthew Yodel, Dewalt, said, “Skyline’s a major player in the local community. It’s important to show them support while they show us so much support.”
Dave Parrillo with Siplast said, “You see the engineers and architects you may not otherwise see. It brings us all closer together.” For many reasons and for many people of all ages, from the New York metro area to the most remote areas across the globe, the Skyline Restoration Golf Classic 2015 was without a doubt the “best event ever!”
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