Upper Room plans to 'cowboy up' for annual gala

Derry

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October 2, 2008

By Julie Huss

DERRY — The Upper Room will host its annual gala auction on Nov. 7, at Promises to Keep on Route 28 and will have a Western theme with dinner, music, silent and live auctions, and raffle drawings.

Local auctioneer and Upper Room supporter Bill Burke, of Dollar Bill's Discount World, serves as this year's auction emcee. Upper Room organizers expect another sellout crowd. Proceeds will benefit at-risk families and youth in Southern New Hampshire.

"We have many returning sponsors for this season's biggest fundraising event," said Upper Room Executive Director Kimberly Bavaro, "but even more encouraging are the new community sponsors who have joined us for the first time. As economic times continue to tighten, it is becoming even more critical that we come together as a community to reach out to those in need."

Upper Room board President Renee Fellows said this year's gala will help the lives of many people serviced by the Upper Room's programs and activities.

"The work we do impacts lives in our community each day," Fellows said. "With children back to school and families juggling even greater economic demands, we're in the schools and the community providing information, education and support to keep our community safe and strong. Contributions, no matter how great or small, make a difference in the lives of so many."

Sponsors for this year's gala include Platinum sponsor MYTV New England; Silver level Merrimac Tile, Hannaford Supermarkets and Ocean Bank; Bronze level Northstar Financial Planning and Bank of New England; wine sponsors Ocean Bank and Parkland Medical Center; podium sponsor Dollar Bill's Discount World; and gift bag sponsors The Derry News and J.A. McGillen.

Doors for the gala open at 5:30 p.m. for the auction preview, and cocktail hour, and hors d'oeuvres and music follow. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. This year's special guest is the Rhythm of New Hampshire Show Chorus ensemble, entertaining gala attendees with fun a cappella music.

Tickets are $50 per person or $100 a couple and $500 for a table of 10. Corporate and individual sponsorship opportunities are still available. Call for information at 437-8477 or visit the Upper Room online at www.urteachers.org.

The Upper Room served more than 12,000 families and individuals last year, and works to provide direction, resources and assistance to families, children and individuals who are often in high-risk situations.