Third successful year: fit for a queen gala

Three Chivalrous Knights greet hundreds of fair maidens at the Fit For a Queen gala at Best Western Hotel on Lakeshore Drive.

On October 14 approximately 150 women flocked to the Best Western Hotel on Lakeshore to be pampered like never before as the third annual Fit for a Queen Gala got underway.

Coordinator of the Red Cross, Fit for a Queen Gala, Peggy Llewellyn, said she was excited that more people seem to be catching on to the event each year.

“Last year we raised $10,000. This year we sold 40 more tickets and our goal is set at 15,000” Llewellyn said.

Funds from Fit for a Queen go directly to the Red Cross and Disaster Relief.

First year volunteer Sharon Biz, Disaster Relief North Bay branch said she is more than happy to get involved.

“For the past two years I have noticed how much fun people have at this event and I wanted to do my part to help,” Biz continued, “It’s good for North Bay and Northern Ontario in general because all the funds we raise stay in the North.”

Women had a wide range of events and demonstrations to participate in.

“We have a new event this year. Since poker is so popular right now we decided to set up a demonstration for those who wish to learn the basics or get additional tips on how the game is played,” Llewellyn said.

Also, Tai-Chi and belly-dancer demonstrations were available, Elvis Presley was in the building for a half-hour and a sapphire ring, donated by Ambrosia Jewellers in Sudbury was up for grabs for those who purchased raffle tickets.

Tons of prizes, silent auction items and a full course meal topped the event off.

All 150 women were waited on hand and foot. Treatment truly fit for a queen.

“I would like to thank all the volunteers, the Red Cross North Bay branch and all the local businesses who donated the silent auction items,” Llewellyn said.

She added, “This event is getting bigger with each passing year. At this point we feel we will reach, if not surpass, today’s fundraising goal.”