In Our Corner

By: Hilary Fenske

The day began with the hustle of people moving things in, decorating, and setting up for the big night.  The Entertainers rehearsed one last time as the room transformed into what would be “Legends of Las Vegas then and now”.  This was the theme for this year’s annual Hollywood Tonight fundraiser for Missouri Shores Domestic Violence Center that was held on January 12, 2008. 

As the people started to arrive, energy filled the room.  “Lady Las Vegas”, or as most know her, Rev. Diane Jackson, was magnificent when she took center stage to entertain the crowd.   Each and every performer did an amazing job.  We had everyone from Liberace to Celine Dion.  A few Elvis’ even showed up to join the party.   There were silent auction bidding wars that continued throughout the evening.  Then Cody Volmer got the crowd going with a fast paced live auction, which even Gov. Mike Rounds joined in on. 

Then as the lime light began to die out, the ballots were tallied for best performers.  The winners were: For Best Female Vocalist – Stephanie Petrik as Cher, Best Male Vocalist – Jeff Speaect as Frank Sinatra, Best Comedy – Jay Vogt as The Fun Nun, The Best Group – Robin Pharis as Dianna Ross along with Liam O’hagen, Adam Paul, Tom Johnson, and Merle Scheiber as “The Temptations”, and the last award, but certainly not the least, for Entertainer of the Year – Diane Jackson as “Lady Las Vegas”. 

The event was a huge success!  Thank you to all who attended.  Just by attending the event you showed your support to help stop domestic violence.  There were 112 sponsor tickets, 72 supporter tickets, and 232 general tickets sold for a grand total of 416 tickets!  This event is so special because it helps Missouri Shores to offer essential services to men, women, and children of domestic violence and sexual assault.

If you or anyone you know is or has been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or elder abuse: please contact Missouri Shores Domestic Violence Center.

Missouri Shores Domestic Violence Center

Office Phone (605)224-0256

E-mail: domestic@missourishores.com

24 Hour Crisis Hotline: (605) 224-7187

Or toll free: 1-800-696-7187