Guests ‘Celebrate Trinity’ at school’s annual fundraiser

Inspired by James Bond, Trinity Junior High School hosted its annual "Celebrate Trinity" fundraiser on Saturday (Feb. 2). More than 400 supporters took part in the "From Trinity with Love" event which featured dinner, dancing, live music, gaming and nearly 200 auction items.

The event serves as the primary fundraiser for the Catholic junior high school. Organizers hoped to raise $70,000 from the evening to benefit the school and its students.

"The funds we raise help cover some of the general expenses, including the difference between what it costs to educate our students and the cost of their tuition," said Becky Alhert, event organizer. "The proceeds are also used to award need-based scholarships to some of our students."

Tickets to "From Trinity with Love" were $75, with corporate tables costing $1,000. With their ticket purchase, guests were given play money to use at the various casino tables. After cashing out, players could use their chips to purchase chances on some of the many drawings taking place at the event.

Special 50/50 card raffles were held throughout the evening with winners announced periodically. For $20, guests could also purchase tickets for a chance to win a full year's tuition to Trinity.

Daren Bobb, 5 News Evening Anchor, served as the evening's emcee.

The event is the product of hard work by a group of committed volunteers and supporters. "We have parents, alumni and parents of former students that all come together to help us with "Celebrate Trinity," said Alhert. "Our volunteers donate their time, treasures and their talent to make this event happen, doing everything from making food, to decorating, to rounding up items and sponsorships. It is incredible."

Themed entrees and hors d'oeuvres, including  "License to Kill Brisket" and "Casino Royale Chicken," were on the menu along with an assortment of "Diamonds are Forever Desserts." Guests were also treated to a full bar complete with festive beverages and of course, classic Bond martinis.

More than 100 items filled the silent auction tables, including dozens of gift certificates, photo packages and autographed memorabilia. Beautiful furniture and home decor, as well as a stainless steel grill and a Pacific Cruiser bicycle were also featured in the auction.

"This was by far, our largest silent auction ever," noted Alhert. "Our donors really were generous this year."

An impressive live auction full of high-ticket items got underway around 8:30. Guests engaged in a bidding war over several items, including a Snipe Creek turkey Hunt  for two, a Lipoxonix treatment and a Tour de France stationary cycle. A trip for four to a NASCAR Nationwide Series Race, and a Bond Girls Getaway to the Hotel  Za Za in Dallas were also up for grabs.

Following the live auction, Tragikly White took to the stage and guests made their way to the dance floor. A cigar bar also opened on the patio for guests to enjoy later in the evening.