Saturday’s Barn Dance at Sonny Dunn’s barn was a night mixed with residents, visitors and supporters simultaneously helping out the Rotary Club and enjoying a fun-filled night out. Approximately 100 people attended the event, many of whom bought raffle tickets on the spot. Couples danced to the musical styling of the Jim Monk Band and enjoyed refreshments sold to help benefit the Rotary pool. (see related story)
Sonny Dunn and Oliver Anderson enjoy the the event
Couples dance to the music of the Jim Monk Band
“The purpose of the Barn Dance is to raise funds to improve the pool so that kids have a place to go” said Rotary Club member Scott Reis. “It’s a great event because it is a fundraiser that benefits the community in a fun, western atmosphere. All proceeds from this event go to the pool and in turn help to keep kids safe and out of the canals.”
The musical selections ranged from rock and roll to country. Couple dancing seemed to dominate the dance floor. The 21 and older crowd was a mix of both traditional Maricopa and the growing communities that have been coming in the past few years.
Rotary Club’s president Richard Fleming, was thankful for the attendance saying “we really appreciate the support.” He described the evening as a “good crowd, having a good time.”
Not everyone was as pleased with the turnout. Nancy McTighe, a first time attendee to the Barn Dance thought that there would have been more people at the event. “I am disappointed by the lack of support,” said McTighe. Others seemed less concerned with the attendance figures and just came to meet new people. Mickey Justice, a Maricopa resident who moved here about two years ago, came to the event to “socialize with original old-time Maricopa.”
Around 10 p.m. the raffle ticket sales were stopped and the drawing took place center stage. Though none of the winners were in attendance, the crowd cheered the winners and excitement filled the air as each name was called. Dave Rossiter won a portable CD player, Dale Helgel won a DVD player, and the 32″ television was claimed by Randy Lessor.
Another drawing for “his and hers” mountain bikes also took place. Tickets were only available at the dance. Milo Cano and his wife, Cathy, were the lucky winners and were very excited. “That’s all it takes to win, just one ticket,” Cano proudly said as he checked out his new bikes.
From left to right Kathie Campbell, Arb Campbell, Mikey Justice, Leslie Justice and Nancy McTighe enjoy the Barn dance and each others’ company
Vice Mayor Brent Murphree prepares the raffle tickets for the drawing
Milo and Cathy Cano admirer their new bikes
Stage Coach Days didn’t end with the Barn Dance. This upcoming weekend, festivities continue with the 2nd annual Golf Tournament at the Duke and a carnival that begins this Thursday, April 21.
