This year volunteer organizers of the Bentley Care Centre Auxiliary’s major fundraiser were pleased with the attendance and support they received for their event staged April 9 in the Blindman Valley Ag Centre in Bentley.
Profit was realized because of volunteerism and donations.
Auxiliary president Doris Bargholz said they were worried about support this year after a disappointing attendance last year with only about 60 supper tickets sold. “(This year) we were pleased. This year we pre-sold 110 plus tickets. We were really glad,” she said smiling. More people came after the supper for the entertainment and silent auction as well.
Some of the increase in attendance may be attributed to the headliner act this year, the Wildrose Yodel Club, who is known throughout a large area for their exceptional harmonizing talent.
The 14 male members not only performed throughout the evening, but also donated their time to be there in support of the Bentley Care Centre.
One fellow was performing his first time in public.
The other good draw was the local West Country Dancers - a local group that practice line dancing in the Bentley Drop-In Centre under the direction of Don McFadyen from Rimbey. The audience was invited to get up, join in, and get active later in the program and many did.
The dancers also donated their time and talents.
The two groups took turns, interspersing sets to give each other a break and to offer the audience a change of pace.
It takes a lot to cover the cost of the hall rent and caterer right off the top. It would not have been as successful had it not been for all the volunteers and donors indicated Doris Leach, auxiliary treasurer. “It really helped a lot that the entertainment was donated.”
Profit realized was about $3,800.00, with the majority of that ($3,168.00) coming from the greater number of donated silent auction items this year with at least 97 items.
There were cash donations of about $150.00.
Aspen Greenhouses Ltd. of Blackfalds donated all the colorful floral table centerpieces that some lucky people were able to take home with them.
Attendees were not a drinking crowd though, so the bar made only a meager profit under the capable hands of volunteer bar tender Gordon Skeels.
Master of ceremonies was Tim Day.
Ena Boot offered grace.
Sheila’s Catering of Bentley supplied the meal.
Laine Dahms, Alberta Health Services volunteer resources coordinator for the Bentley Care Centre, was involved.
Arnold Kubista won the door prize of potted flowers.
Auxiliary executive include longtime president Doris Bargholz, longtime secretary Chloe Ree, new treasurer Doris Leach, vice president Helen Bergeson, with directors Alexis Skeels, Fern Snow, Willie Rietema, Shannon Bowen, Georgina Hutchison, and Ena Boot. More members are always welcome.
Many others volunteered in various ways, too many to try to list, and their help was greatly appreciated.
All profit realized goes to the Care Centre for the purchase of supplies and equipment for the use and enjoyment of residents, staff, and guests.