Chamber gala fundraiser lights up for student scholarships

The South Niagara Sparkling Auction Gala made its long-awaited return to the Leisureplex Friday night, raising funds to support scholarships for students across the region.

Hosted by the South Niagara Chambers of Commerce (SNCC), the gala brought together community members, business leaders and students for a formal night of good food and music. Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships and a silent auction will fund scholarships for every high school in south Niagara, helping students to pursue post-secondary education.

“We’re really happy to help nurture our future generation,” said Dolores Fabiano, executive director of the Chambers.

The event was the result of months of work and strong community backing from SNCC but Fabiano said the result is well worth the effort.

“Communities are far more than just sewers and infrastructure, they’re about people connecting,” said Fabiano.

This year’s event marked a return to its formal roots as a gala after several years of becoming a more casual gathering.

Guests bid on local items, enjoyed a buffet catered by Rizzo’s House of Parm and listened to performances from the A.N. Myer Secondary School Jazz Band.

Band director and teacher Andrew Enns said the invitation came through Bri-Anne Ludlam, events coordinator for SNCC who co-organized the gala and a former student of his.

“We’re trying to do more events like this,” said Enns. “This is another great opportunity for the kids.”

Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop praised the Chamber’s work linking businesses and education through the gala’s scholarship fund.

“These types of events highlight the importance of business and what it does in our communities,” said Redekop. “We’ve got great representation for businesses and educational institutions, so I’m really pleased with what I see.”

Among the sponsors of the gala was Toronto Harbour Cruises owner Omar Aboya, who said his support is based on his trust in the SNCC and community ties.

“All charities are good if they’re bona fide and if I know the person,” said Aboya. “Whether they’re big or small it doesn’t matter. We’ve got to support everybody, big or small. That’s what makes our country what it is.”

Plans are already forming for next year’s gala, with organizers hoping the revived tradition continues to grow.

“It took a lot of people to make it all happen and we’re really grateful,” said Fabiano.

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