Last Thursday evening, April 27th, close to 100 people gathered at the Maple Ridge Equi-sports Center, the Ranch Pub & Grill, for ARMS first ever fundraising dinner event. “We are working hard this year to diversify our funding sources” said ARMS President, Ken Stewart, who was the MC for the night and presided over an “egg-lectic” auction of farm-fresh, non-GMO, all organic auction of eggs and tuna. These items went to the highest bidders, Maple Ridge Councillor Gordy Robson and former Maple Ridge Mayor, Ernie Daykin. “We saw a close to sold-out event with a great turnout of dignitaries and local supporters, and the silent auction donations were exceptional.” said Ken Stewart, “Having been to a few fundraisers in my day, I could certainly say the venue and enthusiasm was right up there with the best. Local businesses including AjM Disposals Limited, Haney Builders Supplies, Save-On Foods and LordCo provided some of our silent auction donations and sponsorship.
The successful evening was rounded off with a brisk silent auction which saw 34 out of 35 of the items up for grabs walk out the door in the hands of some very happy bidders. Participants also bought tickets in a Bruce Muir painting and print raffle which will be drawn on 24 September, Rivers Day at the Allco Fish Hatchery. “Bruce’s paintings of salmon and landscapes are exceptional and truly capture the wildness of our beautiful province” said Greta Borick-Cunningham, ARMS Executive Director, “We are very fortunate to have two inspiring pieces of artwork donated to us by Bruce. This kind of support helps ARMS to continue to fund its environmental stewardship and outreach programs as well as operations.” The event earned close to $4000 for the local river group which will celebrate its 25th year of advocating for the Alouette Watershed in 2018.
