“The happiest moments my heart knows are those in which it is pouring forth its affections to a few esteemed characters. ”
We did it! Another incredible night of generosity, camaraderie and auctioneering indulgence. Impressive in the number of prizes and donations from many individuals and companies. Better still was the charged atmosphere and delightful setting at Gibson’s Bar and Steakhouse. An initial tally shows receipts over $14,000, giving SOS Villages an opportunity to send 14 foster children into the beautiful Northwoods this summer. A record set. Of course, these dollars a largely generated at this annual event, but total contributions would be less if it were not for events held throughout the year and our anonymous annual donor.
Included below are Camps ‘thank you notes’ from last summer. What new possibilities will open for these youngsters as they experience the outdoors with children from all over the US? Imagine.
The evening opened with updates from Jeff Pereles, Camp Manitowish Development Director. Jeff also read an award a SOS Village camper received from Camp Staff last year. Jeff also shared a video of ‘Thanks’ from Camp.
Although there were many memorable moments, worth noting are the winners of the live auction items. Jeff Widmann won the bourbon stave American Flag (donated by Heaven Hill), John Acott the Canada Goose print (donated by artist Jim Tingey, who contributes to each year’s event), Todd Supancic a throwing hatchet donated by Matt Marani (almost demonstrated by the auctioneer and John Hudoba) and Todd again by winning the Gadwell Decoy (donated by John Hudoba). The largest item on live auction was a week at Camp, donated by Camp Manitowish – and won by Matt Schoenberger! Danny Romano again generously offered the summer Chicago River cruise which was immediately purchased with ‘showing of hands’! John Colletti won the Stevens O/U .410 shotgun in a very popular raffle. Of note, chivalry and valor were not in any manner present during the silent auction bidding. Competition and tenacity won the evening (and so did the kids!).
As I close each year, and on behalf of all the JSS members and associates, I would like to recognize the energy and generosity from those who make the dinner possible – and those who contribute throughout the year. Thank you. The appreciation of the outdoor world, nature and how that can positively impact kids (and adults), especially those children from a disadvantaged background, is abundantly apparent by all.
Thank you.
The JSS
Pro dilecto amico Chris Bacigalupo
“My favorite part was the north ball diamond where I got to play basketball. I am grateful for the opportunity. Thank you, Calvin”
“Thank you for sending me to Camp Manito-Wish. It was so fun there, I met new friends, I did new things, and I ate wonderful meals! Isaiah”
“I love camp so much. I would like to thank the camp for receiving me with a lot of love. I also want to thank Sarah and Sabrina. I thank Eliee for speaking with me when I was sad and I am prepared to return again, thank you very much for everything for doing me. Understand that there is not just one friend in life. Thanks for everything, Diana Lopez”
“Thank you for letting me come to camp because it was fun. I miss all of my friends and the programs that you had, Love all, Alexandria.”
“I really loved horses, the bus ride, and everything there. I really like knooing and traveling to different lakes. I hope to see you next summer! I really loved nash food. Thank you so much for everything. Love David”
“My very first time at camp was lots of fun we did lots of things I never did before like horse back riding. Camp is just so much fun. Love Essentia”
“Thank you so much! I had a great, wonderful time thank you for all the fun activities. I really appreciate being there and having so much fun. I really hope to see you all next summer! Enjoy everything, Nash food was the best please give the wonderful happy to all the helpers at Nash and a really big thank you. Hope everyone had a really great summer. Really loved kanooking and too explore and travel different lakes. Love Monica.”
“Messiah has been talking about her camp experience non-stop. I know there was a rocky road but overall enjoyed and appreciated the experience. Thank you so much for the opportunity. Ebony Wilson and Messiah Hall.”
