It was the evening of February 29th, 2020 and the Premier Place Banquet Hall was decorated beautifully and filling up.  Athletes, parents and supporters were looking fabulous and ready for an enjoyable night of fundraising for the Grandravine Tornadoes!  This being my first time at this fundraiser, I immediately felt I was part of something special.  Silvia Rizzuto and Luci Liotta greeted ticket holders while Joe Rizzuto and Michael Liotta sold raffle tickets for the great line up of prizes.   Friends and family mingled while enjoying the full open bar and music played by Innerphase Disc Jockey Productions.  Before dinner, Luci and Michael dedicated the evening to the late Lisa Kelly, saying a heart warming prayer while each table lit the candles with Lisa’s picture enclosed.  This evening was Lisa’s vision, and so it was fitting we take a moment to celebrate and remember her in such a beautiful way.

Kudos to the Premier Place Banquet Hall staff for the delicious meal consisting of bread and butter, antipasto, two types of pasta, veal, chicken, veggies and roasted potatoes; a yummy tartufo finishing off the meal.  I think we can all agree the food, dinner and bar service were top notch.
 
Throughout dinner, door prize tickets were selected and it seemed every table had at least one lucky winner!  As always, the Grandravine Tornadoes and their family and friends kicked off their shoes and danced to the beat or shared a slow dance with the one they love.  At 11:30, it was time for the raffle. An array of wonderful prizes were given out.  Thanks to everyone who donated a prize or got prizes donated.  A huge acknowledgement to Silvia, Joe, Lee Kelly, Jessica Abreu (Lisa’s cousin), Luci and Michael and all the volunteers for their hard work on putting on such a wonderful event.  And of course, a big thank you to everyone who purchased tickets and supported the raffles.  From where I was sitting, everyone had a great time and the evening was a big success. Lisa would have been so proud.
 
For me, this event was one more reason why I’m so happy to be part of the Grandravine family.  I hope you enjoy some pictures of the Lisa Kelly Heart of Winter Gala Fundraiser evening taken by Jessica.
 
Daina Gibbons