All 200 tickets printed for the 2010 New Year’s Eve benefit celebration 2010 were sold in advance and according to one of the event organizers, it was the best event ever.
“There was just a great vibe throughout the night and the evening flowed well,” said Jody Lynn Dunlop. “The committee felt very appreciated by the family members.”
Not only was the event sold out, but a record number of volunteers also came to help out. Dunlop explained that in past years, the committee was working the night before the celebration, setting up tables until 6 or 7 p.m., but this year, they were all done the preparations by 3:30 p.m. because of the extra help.
On the night of the dance and celebration, the benefit recipients were invited on stage.
“I just want to thank the committee members for taking time to put this together and make this wonderful event, not just for us but for you all to enjoy tonight and to bring in 2011,” said Kyle Krankwosky, who was accompanied by his fiancé Natasha Gelinas and his son Dominique at the event. Krankowsky and his family were chosen to receive proceeds from the night’s event, since Dominique has been diagnosed with hearing impairment and will need cochlear implants.
Sherri and Norm Corbiere and their family were also on stage. They were thankful for everyone who came out to support them, explaining that funds raised at the event would be used to pay for the funeral expenses associated with their 16-year-old daughter’s untimely death in a car accident and family grief counselling.
“I would just like you to all have fun, enjoy the night and help us bring in the New Year,” said Sherri Corbiere.
Last year, $7,000 was raised and Dunlop said that this year’s event exceeded that amount, between ticket sales, the silent auction, a raffle and liquor sales.
“The businesses in town and in the community really stood behind the event and donated so many great things to the silent auction,” Dunlop said, adding that businesses’ cash donations were appreciated as well.
She said the event just keeps getting better and better every year.
