Another OKTOBERFEST Success!
The Roots & Wings Foundation would like to thank our volunteers, supporters, guests and donors for making the 2008 OKTOBERFEST the best ever! Together, we raised over $120,000 for the mission of Roots & Wings. This is nearly double the amount raised in 2007. These funds will make a significant difference in our ability to sustain and expand our capacity to help young adults in need.
OKTOBERFEST 2008 was held on Friday, October 17, 2008 at The Villa at Mountain Lakes. The traditional German theme prevailed, with some new features added in to make the evening extra exciting. During cocktails, guests surveyed the Silent Auction items while sipping specialty beers from their mugs made of ice. Later, the program began with a special film feature “Finding His Wings, Miguel’s Story” made by NYU student and Mountain Lakes resident, Louis DeCaprio. The story of Miguel Truesdale, a Roots & Wings graduate, was truly moving. After the film, Miguel was there to accept the accolades and standing ovation of the gathered guests.
During the evening, the Irene deGrandpre Award was presented to two very special guests. The Honorable John J. Gibbons received his award from Board President Kelly Delaney Joyce, while Beth McDonald accepted the award on behalf of Just Babies, LLC from Board member Steve Matthews.
A highlight of the evening was the Live Auction. Rob Gawley, auctioneer extraordinaire, donated his services to Roots & Wings and did a tremendous job. A surprise performance by singer Anwar Robinson made the evening truly special. After the auction, the “Teddy Bear Raffle” for a $1,500 diamond necklace was won by Allison Samay.
A large part of the success of OKTOBERFEST 2008 was due to our Dinner Chairman John Caccavale and hardworking Dinner Committee. Together they were responsible for bringing in 14 sponsors including Barclay’s Capital, Capital One Bank, CMS Companies, Gibbons PC, Haywood Energy Investments, JM Rodgers Co., Garden Savings Federal Credit Union, General Reinsurance Corp., Steve Matthews & Bob Stefani, Mike & Neisa Maute, Omega Corp., John & Bonny O’Mullane, PNC Bank and WolfBlock.
Thank you to all!
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The Teddy Bear raffle has become a favorite at OKTOBERFEST. The prize – a $1,500 diamond necklace! |
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The traditional ice mugs made the specialty beers taste extra special. . |
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You too can drive this car…….if you bid on the Vulcan Motors Club 4-day membership. |
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Miguel Truesdale, a Roots & Wings graduate, speaks about his experiences with Roots & Wings and particularly his mentor, Bonnie O’Mullane. |
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Board President Kelly Delaney Joyce welcomed the guests. |
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Dinner Chairman John Caccavale of Barclay’s Capital was happy to announce fourteen sponsors for OKTOBERFEST 2008. We are grateful to all of our sponsors for making the event a success. |
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Honorees |
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Auctioneer Rob Gawley with singer Anwar Robinson who gave a surprise performance. |
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Chefs Lou & Joe are ready to come to your house to cook a gourmet meal. Live auction bidders Greg & Kristen de Grandpre will get to enjoy their culinary talents. |
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