Toy cars and Route 66 salt shakers were some of the unique items to get motors running at the annual Children’s Concert Society fundraiser.
Guests had the opportunity to bid on baskets and other auction items and enjoy the Route 66 theme Saturday evening at Todaro’s Party Center in Akron.
Board President Diane Lazzerini chaired the event. Margo Snider was the public relations chairperson.
“We are hoping to raise more than $20,000 tonight, and all of the money goes to our programs,” Lazzerini said. “In April alone we brought music to more than 4,600 kids.”
After buying a raffle ticket, Casey Genemans said, “I’m going to bid for a chance to win an expensive wine.”
“I remember seeing this group when I was growing up,” Donna Cetnarowski said.
Ninety-one-year-old Irene Polites said, “My dad and uncles were all musicians and I used to love hearing them practice, so music is a big part of our family.”
Committee members were Pat Lehnhart, Cheryl Boigegrain, Sara Burky, Nikki Cannon, Bobbie Eaton, Patti Eickhoff, Diana Gayer, Karin Lesneski, Carol Lewis, Karen Myers and Renee Pinsky.
“By presenting children with different forms of music, from steel drums to ballet, this organization introduces children to music,” said former Copley-Fairlawn Schools music teacher Cindy Riedel.
Bobbie and Bill Eaton agreed that it was their passion for children that kept them coming back to support the Children’s Concert Society and its events.
“Music is so important for children and their families and that’s why I am here,” said Marianne Uhl, a former music teacher.
Attendees danced to Dave Banks Big Band.