Ray Ciancaglini, founder of Second Impact, is organizing the second annual Shields of Honor Gala to raise funds for Geneva’s police officers and firefighters. The event will take place on Friday, Nov. 1 at Ventosa Vineyards and aims to provide essential resources for local first responders.
Last year’s inaugural gala attracted over 300 attendees and raised $40,000, which was used to purchase new police uniforms, renovate the police pistol range, and provide state-of-the-art fire suits for the firefighters. This year, Ciancaglini hopes to build on that success.
“These are the people that are there for us every day,” said Ciancaglini. “I want to give them what they need.”
The evening will begin with cocktails from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner and a program. The event will feature a live auction with items such as a fireproof gun safe, a Henry Classic Lever Action Rifle, an NFL football signed by Jim Kelly, and other unique offerings. The Bobby Greco Band will provide live music, and there will be door prizes and raffles.
Tickets for the event are $100 per person or $800 for a table of eight. They can be purchased at Kelly’s Irish Pub, Pedulla’s Wine and Liquor, or by contacting committee members Patti Ciancaglini, Paul D’Amico, Erika Van Savage, or Rob Patnesky.
Emceed by former Geneva Police Chief Michael Passalacqua, the event will include remarks from several notable figures, including Ciancaglini, State Senator Pam Helming, Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan, Geneva Mayor Steve Valentino, and City Manager Amie Hendrix.
Ciancaglini, who has battled Parkinson’s Syndrome and CTE as a result of untreated concussions from his professional boxing career, founded Second Impact to raise awareness about the dangers of head injuries and the long-term consequences of ignoring symptoms. His organization focuses on educating the public about concussions, mental health, and fitness, with a special emphasis on first responders.
“Everybody remembers someone who has benefited from first responders,” Ciancaglini said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their work. “It’s important for morale that the police and firemen know that ‘We haven’t forgotten you.’”
Proceeds from the gala will once again be donated directly to the Geneva police and fire departments.
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