Dave Ogilvie
Growing up in a small town definitely has its advantages.
That was apparent Saturday evening at the Emo Legion as 250 friends, relatives, and others from across the district attended a benefit to support Shauna (Allen) Smith, who has been diagnosed and hospitalized with cancer.
Shirley McQuaker, who acted as emcee for the evening, thanked everyone for coming before introducing Shauna’s mother, Shirley Allen.
“Shauna really wanted to be here,” Allen began. “On her behalf, I would like to thank everyone for coming out tonight.
“Your support and prayers mean so much to Shauna and her family.”
The Royal Canadian Legion Br. #99 in Emo, which generously donated the use of the hall, served up an excellent meal of roast beef, vegetables, salads, rolls, and dessert.
Organizers of the benefit obviously put a great deal of thought and effort into the evening’s activities.
While supper was being served, volunteers also ran the penny table, which consisted of 50 items donated by individuals and businesses from across the district.
The generosity and support of people in the area also was evident during the live auction, which began at 7 p.m.
Robin McQuaker, assisted by Harold Kellar, quickly got everyone involved in the spirit of the evening by auctioning off nearly 55 donated items.
Bidders definitely were not looking for a deal during this “benefit auction” and continued to out-bid each other in an effort to raise as much money as possible for this worthwhile cause.
Money raised during the evening’s activities will help the family with the cost of medications not covered by insurance, as well as other ongoing expenses.
The live auction which lasted for nearly two hours, ended just in time for “Centre Line” to take to the stage.
The local band, which kindly donated its time, had the enthusiastic crowd on the dance floor
until 1 a.m.
The entire fundraising effort was a total success because so many people donated items, made donations in the jars at various locations around town, and spent hours putting together the benefit dinner, auction, and dance.
“There are so many people to thank that I will have to put something in the paper so that we don’t miss anyone,” said McQuaker.
When all the donations were collected, and the money from the benefit evening was included, the total sent to Smith and her family was an incredible $11,463.40.
It truly is amazing what the people of this district can do when they pull together and focus on a worthwhile common goal.
