JCI hosts majestic and mysterious night of magic

It was an evening of mystery and elegance.

JCI (Junior Chamber International) Vernon hosted its biggest event of the year, the JCI Gala and Charity Auction at the Vernon Lodge Saturday night, April 21. This year’s theme, a Phantoms Masquerade, saw many attendees donning masks of mystique and intrigue as they sipped champagne, enjoyed a three-course meal and participated in a silent and live auction called by Kevin Rothwell.

Gala and charity co-chairs Mike Mezynski and Cera Brown welcomed several hundred guests who paid $95 a ticket during the evening kick-off. Proceeds from the gala will go toward the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, Vernon Women’s Transition House Society and the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club – Teen Junction.

“We are truly blessed to be supported by so many people every single year we hold this event. We simply can’t describe how amazing it is to see all of your faces this evening and be surrounded by people who are touched by JCI’s mission of giving back to the community,” said Mezynski.

Brown stressed the importance of the dedicated work of the JCI gala committee and volunteers as well as the dozens and dozens of donations of funds and auction items from local and surrounding businesses.

Vocalist Paul Moore sang Music of the Night from Phantom of the Opera to continue the tone of the evening after dinner. The live auction got people throwing up their paddles bidding hundreds of dollars on wine tours, hotel stays, restaurants, family attractions, water sports and more.  Numbers are still being tallied over how much was brought in by the auction, silent auction, balloon pop and 50/50 draw.

The photo booth, sponsored by iNFOnews, was a hit, as was the casino where people put down their provided casino “money” on roulette, blackjack and poker.  Casino “winnings” could then be entered for draw prizes of wine and other goodies. Music from Vernon band Feet First got people on the dance floor.

Lisa Westermark, executive director of the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, expressed gratitude for those attending and donating.

“We are thrilled to be a beneficiary of the JCI Gala again this year. Over the last nine years, the hospital has benefited tremendously from the generosity of donors through this wonderful event which has raised more than $166,000 to improve health care in the North Okanagan,” said Westermark.

Funds provided to the Vernon Women’s Transition House Society will go toward support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence within the community. This includes providing safe shelter and supportive services.

Teen Junction will direct funds toward providing youth with a non-judgmental environment and nutritious meals five days a week along with positive adult relationships and vital life skills.

JCI Canada National President Mike Matejka, and JCI World President Marc Brian Lim were on hand for the event.

JCI is an organization for young entrepreneurs and professionals age 19-40 who, through networking and personal training opportunities, develop into leaders and in turn create positive change in the community. Locally, JCI Vernon is involved with several programs including Funtastic, Helping Hands and Good Citizen of the Year Awards.

For more information on JCI visit www.jcivernon.com.

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