P.A.W.S. Dinner Dance Recap
"An Evening In Paradise"
The 36th Anniversary Dinner/Dance at the Orland
Chateau drew our largest crowd of PAWS supporters, all ready to celebrate
the coming spring and another year of PAWS’ commitment to serving the
communities in and around Tinley Park. Hula dancers greeted the attendees
at the doors while Island music played throughout the hall. Colors of
blue and gold accented the many tables, and colorful and creative centerpieces
filled the foyer. The dining hall was awash with 108 silent auction items,
later to become the objects of wishful bidding. Each of the beautifully
crafted auction items was themed; for example, Spoil the Child, Let’s
Go Fishing, Out for Dinner, Cooking with Fire, Meet Me at the Spa, etc.
Ticket auctions provided people chances to win everything from centerpieces
to certificated diamond earrings.
Shelter President Paul Egan greeted the attendees just before dinner,
reminding all of them of the importance of our continued need to educate
the public regarding our mission as well as take some time to celebrate
our many wonderful accomplishments. Mayor Ed Zabrocki spoke as the leader
of Tinley Park. Robin Christ, the chairperson of the fundraising event,
also welcomed the crowd waiting to be seated for dinner, and she reminded
them that besides celebrating, we were all there to help in a fundraising
event for PAWS Animal Shelter.
After dinner, the Barefoot Hawaiian dancers rocked the place with a show
that was outstanding. Talk about handsome guys and gals. Several brave
partygoers tried to learn a hula move or two, and everyone had fun. Pat
Duggan said, “I swear this has been the most exercise I have ever done,
but I feel rejuvenated I am having so much fun.” The live auction that
followed was led by Mr. Darrell Sanders, and he provided great purchasing
opportunities as well as laughs with his quick and jovial delivery. The
auction items were wonderful: Trips to such places as Disney World or
Cape Cod, Cubs, and White Sox items. There were deals and even steals.
This year’s video was also themed, turning to the lighter side of working
at PAWS as a volunteer and the wonderful images of our four-legged friends.
While Calypso music played, image after image of volunteers, dogs, cats,
kittens, and puppies rolled across the screen. Of course, the video ended
with the photo contest- the top ten pictures sent in by supporters and
volunteers of their own cats, dogs, or PAWS shelter animals – some very
gorgeous as well as hysterical pictures.
Once again, music was provided this year by Mr. Michael LaMantia of Midnight
Mike's Mobile DJ Service, and the dancing began in earnest after the silent
and live auction were over. Music from every era was played. Even Lady
Gaga slammed into Frank Sinatra at one point on the floor. Of course,
the event would not have been possible without the assistance of many
local businesses and major companies that provided so much for the fundraising.
We would like to thank the following businesses and individuals for their
generous donation to our event:
Air Tran AIrways donation of two round trip airline tickets
The Aileen S. Andrew Foundation for their ongoing support of our mission
Volunteers - Sue Arends, Marilyn Bailey and John & Sue Dillon for generous contributions to our live and silent auctions.
Prosort Mailing Service for kindly donating the invitation mailing.
The Long Dell Inn - Cape Cod for their donation of a stay at the Inn.
Volunteer - Geri McGee: For the beautiful balloon decorations.
Debbie Tomasik, Bill Vondrasek, Mattie & Waylon: For their ongoing support of the shelter.
Ms. Sue Gott: For her contribution of many of the beautiful items in our silent auction packages.
Rental Max - Orland Park: For coming to our rescue once again!
Bess Friedheim Jewelers: For their never-ending support of our cause.
Volunteers John & Sue Dillon and Jerry & Geri McGee: sponsoring the Barefoot Hawaiian entertainment
Mr. Darrell Sanders: Our incredible auctioneer!
Mr. Mike LaMantia: :Midnight Mike's Mobile DJ Service: Always there when we need him!
Grand Audio & Visual Services - Orland Park
Vicki Dean : For putting together such a beautiful program book.
Fran Heinemann & Karen Beran:
Designers of the "paradise" theme and invitations.
AND FINALLY.................
Ms. Robin Christ, Mrs. Rhonda Kujawa and
Mrs. Mary Christ are the creative force behind the incredible
silent auction packages we have to offer. Thank you for lending your time
and your talent to this event.
They are generous, amazing women and we thank them.
E-mail us at pawstinleypark@gmail.com