by Brian J. Berman
Special to The Mountaineer
Saturday night, Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation Variety Show Benefit & Silent Auction was more than just a fundraiser, as was evident by the audience's enthusiasm for all the folks who volunteered their time and talent for such a worthy cause.
Musicians and singers, dancers, comics and a guerilla poet filled the space with music, emotion and laughter, sometimes unintentional.
Several children also gave worthy performances, including Helena Hunt, 9, on banjo, Daniel Messer, 10, who along with adult partner Tracy Best presented a wonderful duet, and 8-year old Madison Garris, whose rendition of Annie's 'Tomorrow' was only enhanced by the presence of Summer, a rescued Golden Retriever belonging to event organizer, Tish O'Connor.
Summer, who did her best not to upstage the human acts, also served as the night's mascot, greeter and unofficial emcee. Dancers included Sidra, the belly-dancing duo of Tany Boroi and Nicole Wilhelm, while Joe Sam Queen, a state senate candidate, stole the show with some 'down home, old-time soft shoe.
WLOS-TV personality Julie Wunder hosted the first half of the evening, which was followed by a long intermission to give folks time to bid on unique items such as a tennis racked signed by legend Martina Navratilova, locally made pottery and jewelry, as well as gift baskets, paintings, golf lessons and an overnight stay at Balsam Mountain Preserve. Anita Snyder, silent auction coordinator, called the bidding 'spirited', and said she hoped for more merchants and artists to donate their wares next year.
