Archbishop Stepinac High's Thomas DiCarlucci Awarded Bob Fitzsimmons Scholarship

This year's recipient, of the Bob Fitzsimmons Scholarship is Thomas DiCarlucci, a senior at Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains, NY. He has been a member of Stepinac's stage crew since he was a freshman, serving as cue coordinator and stage manager for eight full-length productions. In addition to the drama club productions, Thomas has served as a crewmember for Stepinac's alumni theater productions and almost every performance, event, and fundraiser, which takes place in Stepinac's Major Bowes Theater.

Under the guidance of Stepinac's faculty members, Thomas has learned many skills including dedication, work ethic, and responsibility, which help him not only in his crew-related endeavors, but also in his every day life. During his time at Stepinac, the stage crew has received several Helen Hayes Youth Theater Awards, including two for "Best Stage Crew" and has been featured in The Journal News. In his free time, Thomas enjoys music, specifically playing guitar in his band, which is a passion he pursues with as much enthusiasm and talent as he does the stage crew he plans to attend Manhattan College in the Fall, majoring in electrical engineering .

The Scholarship is given annually to a college-bound senior who has excelled in the theatre arts programs while attending Stepinac High School. The prestigious Arts Scholarship is named after Bob Fitzsimmons, a graduate of Stepinac High School, who died suddenly at the age of 37 in March of 1992. He was the Public Relations Director of the Westchester Broadway Theatre, as well as a gifted actor, producer, writer and a director of shows at WBT and at numerous theatres throughout the County.
The scholarship was established in his name by the owners of Westchester Broadway Theatre, Bill Stutler and Bob Funking, the entire employee staff of WBT, and the many friends and relatives of Bob Fitzsimmons. Under the auspices of WBT, Allan Gruet, (former WBT Public Relations Director, who replaced Bobby Fitzsimmons) and George Puello spearheaded two fundraisers. The first & most successful fundraiser was held at WBT, the second was held at Stepinac High School. An upcoming performance at WBT, will mark the third such fundraiser. Mr. Puello was responsible for directing & producing the entertainment portion of the events, while Mr. Gruet handled the ticketing for the fundraisers & the continuing administration of the self-sustaining scholarship. Over the years, along with the assistance of producer Bob Funking, Allan has continued to manage the scholarship, making it possible to present the award consistently each year. In recent years, Frank Portanova,Vice Principal of Stepinac High School, has been extremely helpful and cooperative, making some financial donations to the fund to help ensure the life of the scholarship. He also is responsible for selecting the student winner for this highly competitive award. Since it's inception, $20,000.00 in scholarships have been awarded. Unfortunately, due to the current financial climate, the Scholarship is no longer self-sustaining and monies need to be raised to ensure the continuation of this award. The annual scholarship in Bob's name is our collective way of keeping alive the memory of our dear friend, Bobby Fitzsimmons.

Upcoming Benefit Performance:

Westchester Broadway Theatre Presents
A Special Performance to Benefit
The Bob Fitzsimmons Memorial Scholarship Fund
Tuesday, April 21, 2009

HEADLINERS
John Treacy Egan And Christine Pedi
Featuring
Jeff Schlotman (Speaker)
Dorina DiLullo
Paulette Oliva and Peter McClung
Jenna and Danielle Dallacco
Kristin DaCosta
Joe Venice And His Band
The Lighthouse Protégé Choral Ensemble
Special Performance by the STEPINAC HIGH SCHOOL Cast of CURTAINS!
Directed & Produced by George Puello

Doors Open For Dinner at 6:00pm
Concert Starts at 7:30pm
Tickets: $50.00 Adults $40.00 Children, Seniors & Students.
* Price includes Complete Dinner, Tax & gratuity on Meal Portion - approximately 35% will go directly to the Scholarship Fund
Cash Bar Service Available.
Reservations:
Call The Box Office at: (914)592-2222
Tickets will be held at the Box Office For pick up on Tuesday, April 21st.