Salvation Army's 16th Annual Benefit Ice Show
February 12, 2008
Skatefest did its job last Sunday, raising over $85,000 for OurPlace, a daycare for homeless children in Cambridge. It was an afternoon of impassioned performances by international medalists, national medalists and competitive regional skaters, including synchronized skating teams and some highly entertaining similar pairs. The skaters lit up Harvard's Bright Arena, inspiring and amusing the crowd of 3,000.
In its 16th year, Skatefest is the only fundraiser for OurPlace. Opened in 1987 by the Salvation Army at the request of homeless mothers, OurPlace was the first licensed daycare for homeless children in Massachusetts and currently supports 38 children. Funding for 14 of these children is contributed by the State of Massachusetts and the City of Cambridge, while the Salvation Army must raise funds to support the remaining 24 children. Skatefest donations go directly towards supporting these children.
Congratulations and many thanks to Amanda Farkas, in her 12th year as the show's director, and to Honorary Chairman Benjamin Wright for their leadership in organizing the show. Henry Son stirred the crowd as Master of Ceremonies, introducing the many Club skaters who showcased their talents. Their work this past Sunday afternoon will bring a better chance to the young children of OurPlace.
Performing skaters included: Jin Baseman, Cori Boulet, Michael Bramante, Harrison Choate, David Conley, Elizabeth Conover-Prentiss, Gretchen Donlan, Isabelle Dost, Susan Enright, Nicole Fugate, Suzanne Garcia, Olivia Gibbons, Talia Ilana Greene, Adrian Huertas, Lauren Lampiasi, Victoria LoRusso, Christine Magill, Ross Miner, Bryna Oi, Curran Oi, Calli Quinlan, Courtney O'Regan, Olivia Pastore, Juliana Rapela, Lina Takaoka, Kayla Thierwechter, Brittney Rizo, Angela Sementelli, Alexandria Shaughnessy, Emily Stevenson, Lindsey Stevenson, and Team Boston's Juvenile and Junior Teams.
Presented by The Skating Club of Boston, Harvard University and The Salvation Army Community Advisory Board
