Shining Stars to Play Cranford PBA in Basketball Fundraiser

One of the most exciting basketball games of the season is
coming to Cranford on Friday night, March 15th, when the Shining
Stars Ambassadors special needs basketball team takes on the
Cranford PBA in a charity fundraiser.

The fun and excitement will begin at 7:00 pm at the Cranford High
School lower gym. Suggested admission fee is $5. Admission is
free for all special needs individuals.

"Our team is so excited to play the Cranford PBA once again," said Shining Stars Network President Mike Curci. "Everyone had a great time last year and we're excited the CHS boys basketball team will join us to run warmups and be honorary captains. I can't thank the Cranford PBA enough for participating, and a big thank you to Chris Polito and Greg Federici of the Cranford Police Department for their help in organizing this event. It's a wonderful way to bring our community together."

"The Cranford PBA is honored to be part of such a special event," said Cranford Police Lt. Chris Polito. "This game helps members of the Cranford Police Department build a positive bond with these inspirational athletes. We just hope they take it easy on us!"

The Ambassadors are part of Shining Stars Network, a registered
501(c)3 non profit which creates events to shine the light on the
special needs community.

Shining Stars is well-known for their annual "Evening of Shining
Stars" talent show. Now in its 8th year, the 2019 show -- which will
take place on Friday, May 3rd -- will feature music from Broadway
and movies. Rehearsals are in full swing for “The Greatest Show”
and the cast is once again excited to perform for the second time
at the beautiful and historic Union County Performing Arts Center
in Rahway, where over 1,000 audience members watched last
year’s extravaganza.

"Our rehearsals are going great, everyone is so excited to get back on the professional stage once again," said Shining Stars Founder and co-Director Sally Curci. "We invite everyone to come and see the show. Our stars are amazing and inspiring. We can't wait for May 3rd."

With several songs from "The Greatest Showman" on the list as well as many other Broadway tunes, the cast of 40 and their 15 special needs "buddies" from Cranford High School are preparing for another successful night. And you can get a sneak peak of the show when the "stars" perform at halftime of the Ambassadors game.

"We're excited that our organization continues to grow," added Mike Curci. "This a second family for everyone involved and it's thanks to the support of our sponsors and the community that we can continue to add more events each year."

To buy your tickets to “An Evening of Shining Stars” go to UCPAC.org/events, find the Shining Stars logo and select your seats. To advertise in the show program, please email shiningstarsnetwork@gmail.com.

For more information on Shining Stars Network, go to www.shiningstarsnetwork.org. or email
shiningstarsnetwork@gmail.com.