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Philanthropy fosters fellowship in Northbrook
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Updated: January 7, 2013 6:13AM
There was a superfun auction going on at Glenview’s North Shore Country Club Nov. 17.
Nortbrook’s St. Norbert Church was holding it’s 17th annual dinner and auction, a major fundraiser — and a great time — for the parish.
Volunteer Betty Parkinson of Northbrook barely had time to step outside of the packed banquet room for an interview, but she was gracious as always. Stunning in holiday black evening wear, she made a point that should encourage volunteerism. “It’s the best way to get to know people and to bond with them,” she said.“I just get so energized when I’m with people who are feeling the same way I am about giving service to others.”
The auction was conducted by Chicago broadcast journalist Mary Ann Ahern, lovely in a lime, aqua and peacock blue sequined dress that sparkled with just the right amount of bling. Ahern accepted bids for live auction ticket items such as the popular Santa Claus visits, sponsored by by Northbrook’s Vince White.
“I know St. Norbert and I know the great work they do in the community so I wanted to help out,” said Ahern.
And while Jolly Old St. Nick is always a big hit at the annual dinner auction (named “Blessed Are We”), everyone’s favorite elf would no doubt agree that the genuine fluffy puppy was the evening’s real auction score.
The Rev. Robert P. Heinz served as dogsitter, holding the puppy who licked his priestly face as a thank you.
“It’s a great community building event,” said Father Bob, with a smile. Of the friendly pup, he said, jokingly: “It’s not a dog, it’s a pillow.”
Santa Claus himself might have agreed that dog was as cute as button, looking more like a toy.
Parkinson reported later that she — the puppy — “went to a really good home.”
You get the picture, and the fundraiser goal. The event raised some $125,000 for the church.
Parkinson noted that the event “funds of all our operations for all of the ministries for our parish.”
Visit www.stnorbertparish.org.~.
View the St. Norbert Dinner Auction video at www.northbrook.suntimes.com under “Lifestyles” and “Karie Angell Luc.”
