Diners flip over flapjack fundraiser

KID’S KORNER: Among the Graniteville School students who enjoyed Sunday’s unique pancake breakfast and raffle with their families were Lucia Achilli, Liella Lombardo, Kylah O’Brien, Brady Amaral, Grady Ritch and a special guest.

SUPER STAFF: Graniteville School staffers and teaches who coordinated Sunday’s special fundraiser at Applebee’s in Smithfield were, from left, Christine Andrews, Raquel Londono, Kelly Schweigert, Applebee’s manager Phil, Laura Fontaine, June Vandall, Nadine, O’Conner, Kristen Mayo and Deborah Raspallo.

Posted Thursday, May 9, 2019 2:16 pm

Flapjack Fundraiser!

That was the name of Sunday’s fun-filled event for Graniteville School, held at Applebee’s Restaurant at 446 Putnam Pike in Smithfield.

For inside of three hours, children scooted all around the nearly jam-packed restaurant having their faces painted and enjoying pancakes, bacon, juice and coffee.

“We’ve got about 120 people here today,” said Christine Andrews, the office manager at Graniteville School. She filled in Principal Maria Petronio-McAfee, who is recovering from a recent surgery and couldn’t be on hand Sunday.

“Maria would be proud. This was a great themed event,” Andrews said.

The event featured five gift-wrapped raffle baskets that were made by classroom teachers who received donations from families who have children at the Johnston public pre-K school.

Andrews said each of the baskets had its own special theme, like S’more Family Fun coordinated by Ms. Fontaine; Gardening, courtesy of the Sundberg family; Family Game Night-Winner by Ms. Deb and Amaral Family; and Summertime Fun by Ms. Kelly.

“The Graniteville School is grateful for everyone that came out on a rainy Sunday to support our school,” Andrews said. “It’s important to keep our tradition of great themed events for the children and their families going.”

(Text and photos by Pete Fontaine)