Rotary to stage 36th Annual Gala fundraiser on May 20

Courtesy of Hudson Rotary
·3 min read
Silent auction items, such as these from the past Rotary Gala, will be featured at this year's event on May 20.
Silent auction items, such as these from the past Rotary Gala, will be featured at this year's event on May 20.
Pictured are Gala co-chairs Marilyn Orr (left) and Kris Barker with past chair Ron Strobl and a Camaro auction item at the last Rotary Gala.
Pictured are Gala co-chairs Marilyn Orr (left) and Kris Barker with past chair Ron Strobl and a Camaro auction item at the last Rotary Gala.

After COVID-19 caused the cancellation of the last two attempts to present Rotary's 36th Annual Gala, preparations are underway to return to the very successful format of cocktails, silent auction, full course dinner and live auction at the Twinsburg Hilton Garden Inn. Over the years, this event has generated the bulk of Rotary funds used to support major Hudson community needs such as the Gift of Life, Hudson EMS, Hudson High School student programs and Hudson Scouting.

Scouts assisted at a previous Rotary Gala. The reconstruction of the historic Scout Cabin on the Green is one of the programs for which the Gala will raise funds.
Scouts assisted at a previous Rotary Gala. The reconstruction of the historic Scout Cabin on the Green is one of the programs for which the Gala will raise funds.

This year, the Gala will raise funds for reconstruction of the historic Scout Cabin located on Hudson’s Village Green, continue major support of the Gift of Life, NEO that provides heart surgeries for poverty-stricken children and contribute to HHS student programs for scholarships and community service.

Rotary President Patrick Scherer and wife Mara enjoying a previous Rotary Gala.
Rotary President Patrick Scherer and wife Mara enjoying a previous Rotary Gala.

Gala chairs Marilyn Orr and Kris Barker report that major sponsors, whose past support has helped raise over $65,000 each year, will again contribute to this important community event and be joined by other generous sponsors including:

  • Kaulig Giving — Platinum and lead sponsor, supports more than 30 non-profit organizations that assist the well-being of children, educational and healthcare institutions and charitable organizations making a positive impact on our community. Kaulig Cos. operates brands across a spectrum of businesses including consumer discretionary products, sports and entertainment, media and marketing services and finance/financial services. Some of their high profile brands include LeafFilter, Kaulig Racing, Kaulig Media, Kaulig Capital,LLC and Ellsworth Advisors.

  • Eric Treend and Family — Platinum sponsor whose love of Hudson and support of the Scout Cabin restoration project is historic.

  • Akron Children’s Hospital — Gold sponsor ranks among the best children’s hospitals in the country, takes a compassionate approach to treatment. Through a combination of treatments and patient experiences, their care does more than heal — it brings the entire family together for emotional support and understanding across multiple locations.

  • First National Bank in Hudson — Silver sponsor, provides commercial banking, consumer banking and wealth management solutions. FNB is recognized for its customer service and culture existing to help customers achieve economic success and financial security by building relationships based on trust and integrity. They are dedicated to enhancing the lives of the people and communities they serve.

  • Dr. Patricia Goetz — Silver sponsor, supporting her Ohio Senate campaign.

As pictured in this photo from a past event, a live auction will take place at the Rotary's 36th Annual Gala on May 20.
As pictured in this photo from a past event, a live auction will take place at the Rotary's 36th Annual Gala on May 20.

Many exciting gifts for the live auction have already been pledged including:

  • A sports convertible for one month’s use generously donated by Don Sitts Auto Sales valued at $2,500.

  • An overnight stay, dinner and breakfast at the Spread Eagle Tavern and Inn, Hanoverton, valued at $500.

  • A basket of assorted vintage wines to please a range of palates, donated by the Rotary Club of Hudson valued at $500.

  • A dinner for 14 prepared at your home by Chef Mitch Faris of the Blue Door valued at $1,400.

  • A one night stay at the Breakers and 4 all day passes at Cedar Point coupled with 4 passes to the Water Park donated by Dr. Patricia Goetz, candidate for Ohio Senate, valued at $775.

  • A masterfully crafted limited edition antique style tilt top table built by Ron Strobl valued at $500.

  • A special behind the scenes tour of the Akron Zoo valued at $400.

  • A Lexus of Akron Guardian baseball outing package valued at $1,200.

  • A week stay in a Colorado condo donated by Kristina Roegner valued at $5,000.

During the next month, members of the Rotary Club of Hudson will be contacting many of you to provide an opportunity to participate in the Gala by becoming a sponsor, by providing an auction gift, by making a cash donation and by attending the event. More information is available and tickets may be purchased at www.rotaryhudson.org.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Rotary to stage 36th Annual Gala fundraiser on May 20