The Barrhead Minor Hockey (BMH) Gala has never seen so many famous faces as it did on Saturday, Jan. 24.
BMH President Nate Wilson said they host the fundraiser each year with one main goal in mind.
“We are fundraising to cover general fees, replacement uniforms and that sort of thing,” Wilson said. “It’s to keep hockey affordable for all kids.”
The event also helps cover a portion of the BMH Associations operating costs.
“If you look at our operating budget, it (the gala) covers about a quarter of our operating budget for the year, so it makes it cheaper if you really think about it,” Wilson said, adding that the fundraising is important for several reasons.
“It takes some of the burden off of the parents,” he said. “Hockey is an expensive thing, and for it to be affordable for everyone or for as many people as possible than it is better for all.”
Last year the gala raised over $43,000, a total that evened out to $250 per player saved in cash.
“That is $500 for two kids, or $750 for three kids, so it makes it a little more manageable for parents,” Wilson said.
The gala also provides an opportunity for parents and members to sit back, relax, and enjoy the end of another successful season.
“It also gives us a chance to let our hair down a bit after a year of hockey,” Wilson said.
Each year the gala takes on a different theme, this year Awards Night was chosen.
“We have done different ones, and the entertainer that we have used for the last two years now… he just gives us an idea of some of the one’s that he does and that was the one that got picked out of the group,” Wilson said.
In previous years the theme has been Hockey Night in Canada, and Austin Powers.
“It’s a fun thing to do,” Wilson said.
Cherub Awards were handed out as a fun factor, with handmade trophies given to the winners.
Attendees were welcome to dress in their best or to come as their favourite celebrity.
Tom Hanks in his role as Forest Gump attended the event, along with other fellow celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Nicole Kidman, and Tina Fey.
Running the red carpet entertainment was Rene Mauve Toupee, welcoming all who walked through the VIP doors.
The night featured a dinner catered by Sugar and Spice, top-notch entertainment by Gery Schubert, and both silent and live auctions.
Wilson wanted to thank all of the volunteers for all of the work that they put into the event.
“I think we have an upwards of 50 volunteers that make sure that this event goes on,” Wilson said, adding that he wanted to thank them all for volunteering their time.
