Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Red, white and blue and stars and stripes were everywhere.
After months of planning, preparation and anticipation, the Patriotic Red Ball became a reality Saturday at the Center Lake Pavilion. Although everyone enjoyed the dinner, dancing and camaraderie, the emphasis was on patriotism, recognition of area service people and supporting the local American Red Cross.
The evening started with bidding on items in the silent auction while mingling with old and new friends. Items in the silent auction were: "Patriotism is Timeless" watches donated by Crownover's Jewelers; "Drive America ... Clean" auto detailing, John and Trish Rice; "CIA Undercover," a down comforter, Maple Leaf Farms; "Salute to America" flag and stars and stripes throw, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Sasso; ".08" libations stock-up, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery Thornburgh; "We Are United" bicycle built for two, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Allen; "Just Relax" massage package, Kosciusko Family Massage Therapy; "America's Favorite Pastime" package, a cocktail party, Key Bank; "Loyal Friend" pet package, Thorndale Ivy; "Make Love Not War" romantic getaway package, Ramada Inn and Wagon Wheel Theatre and Connie and Steve Rufenbarger; "Family Values" family portrait, Cox Studio; "Explore America," an Explorer van for a week, Mr. and Mrs. Steve Kesler.
The invocation was given by the group singing "God Bless America," accompanied by Spike and the Bulldogs. Dinner was by Bistro 'A Lago.
After dinner, live bidding started with the featured exclusive red, white and blue pendant necklace, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Allen, Allen Designs. Other items offered during live bidding were: "Rescue Heroes" birthday party package donated by Mr. and Mrs. Brian Rhoades; the "Snow Dog" package dog sledding trip, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Kubacki; "Progressive Sunset Dinner Cruise" to three homes on Lake Tippecanoe donated by Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Ferguson, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Teghtmeyer, Mr and Mrs. David Montgomery and Mr. and Mrs. Dan Hann; "Romantic Weekend" at Saugatuck, Michigan's Wickwood Inn, Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Howard; and the "Bombs Bursting In Air" fireworks package from Mr. and Mrs. Tony Miller.
The festivities continued with dancing to Spike and the Bulldogs. Even those not dancing enjoyed singing along and tapping their toes to the music of the '60s.
The total for both auctions was almost $9,000. All proceeds go to the American Red Cross. One of the primary uses for the funds will be to provide care packages and other types of community support to the armed forces personnel from the Warsaw area.
