Three hundred fifty community members set a record at the 15th Annual Cigar Dinner, held May 13.

Dollars are still being counted, but event organizers project a record year of support for families helped through The Father Fred Foundation.

“We would like everyone to appreciate the tremendous number of hours the Ancient Order of Hibernians put in to make this event so successful,” said David Abeel, Director of Development at the Foundation. “Please thank them, along with cigar sponsors Ashton Cigar Company and Mike Nolan of Nolan’s Tobacconists, event host, Dan Kelly of the Williamsburg Banquet Center, and Tim Smith, Smith & Johnson Attorneys P.C. for his work coordinating this event..”

Major support was also received from AT&T, Kirk Kilbourne of Stifel, Nicholas and Co., Dennis Brodeur and Trevis Gillow of Raymond James, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Wicksall, Attorney Jeffery C. Alandt, Bill Marsh Auto Group, Mr. Gary Silverman, Smith & Johnson, Attorneys P.C. and Thompson O’Neil and Vanderveen, Attorneys.

The meal, wine, cigars, food, beer and bourbon and vodka…all were the “Best of the Best.” Dinner guests gave a rousing ovation to executive chef of the 2010 Cigar Dinner – David Denison (Amical) and pre-function chefs – Dan Marsh (Red Ginger), Joseph George (Grand Traverse Resort & Spa), Eric Nittolo (The Boathouse), Paul Olson (Mission Table & Jolly Pumpkin), and Mickey Cannon (Tuscan Bistro).

The salad course was prepared by Carrie Trogan (Hanna). The appetizer course was by Randy Chamberlain (Blu). Entrée’ course chefs were Phil Murray (Phil’s on Front) and Dave Denison and Al Schmidt (Amical). Dessert was created by Joseph George (Grand Traverse Resort & Spa), and breads by Stacey Wilcox (Bay Bread Co.). Other guest chefs that assisted in the meal included Karl Malin (TBA Culinary and Catch Island Grill).

If you were unable to attend this year’s dinner but would like to help families in crisis, call The Father Fred Foundation at 947-2055 or visit them online at fatherfred.org.

Father Fred Foundation volunteers are famous for their compassionate work. Their passion is the driving force behind us getting support to those who need it … fast! Here are the voices of three Spiritual Directors, current and past, saluting volunteers:

"Grandma Moses, at 93, when asked what she was most proud of doing responded, ‘'I helped somebody.' That direct person-to-person help just can't be outdone!"
-Father Fred, 1994

"God gave us Easter and New Life. Let us keep it happening by the gifts we give to others. God Bless You!"
-Father Thome, 2008

"Your gift empowers us to reach out and touch the lives of hundreds who cross our threshold every week seeking relief from their suffering and circumstances."
-Father Iakovos, 2010

To get in the mood, volunteer Kathie Super decided to wear a pair of floppy bunny ears as she hurried around the Father Fred Foundation lobby last year getting ready to distribute Easter Baskets. Suddenly a small hand was tugging at the side of her pants.

"Are you the Easter Bunny?" asked a little voice.

"No, I'm just the Easter Bunny's helper," said Kathie.

"I'm sure you are the Easter Bunny," said the little voice with very wide eyes. "You have always forgotten me in the past on Easter morning. My name is Isaac."

"Don't worry Isaac, I won't forget you this year," said Kathie, barely hiding the tear in her eye.