Crazy Cash 2016 (photos)

Photo courtesy of Haley Lynn Thomsen

Kiwanis, with the help of many other community groups and volunteers held their 17th annual Crazy Cash event on Saturday night. Unlike last year, no deal was reached and the grand prize of $5,000 went to one ticket holder, #199.

More than 90 volunteers–including high school athletes helping with setup and take-down, Key Clubbers who decorated the building, representatives from each group receiving funds and some people who just volunteered on their own–combined to this “amazing effort,” said Kiwanis member Cindy Kenney.

“This event simply could not happen without the combined efforts of many groups in the community working together,” Kenney added. “It really is amazing to see this come together and the spirit of community that is needed to make it happen.”

Recipient organizations include the Manchester Area Historical Society, Manchester Farmers Market, Community Resource Center, Manchester Early Childhood Center, Manchester Soccer Association, After Prom, Lions Club, Senior Citizens Council, and the Manchester Community Fair Board. All 200 available tickets were sold prior to or during the event. “We had lots of first-timers and of course, lots of regulars as well,” said Kenney.

Throughout the evening, the Kiwanis gave out more than $11,000 in cash, three Microsoft Surface Pro 3 computers, two $500 Cabela gift cards, two flat screen TVs, and a Prodigy Kayak. According to Kenney, final figures won’t be available until later today; but even with fewer sponsorships and donations this year, the club still hopes to reach its goal of helping each of the recipient organizations with the pledged amounts.

“Vannas” Danielle Smith, Matt McCready, Haley Thomsen and “MC’s” Pat Vailliencourt and Dana Andrews. Photo courtesy of Haley Lynn Thomsen

Dinner! Photo by Haley Lynn Thomsen

“MC” Dana Andrews and “Vannas” Haley Thomsen and Matt McCready pause for a selfie. Photo courtesy of Haley Lynn Thomsen.

Last Five main board tickets – No Deal! Photo courtesy of Ruth Van Bogelen

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

Photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

Bidding for ticket #200. Photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen.

Winners:

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

Photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

Holder of ticket #199! Photo courtesy of Ruth VanBogelen

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.