The Spirito! Singers Autumn Voices Fundraiser was a huge success this past Saturday, November 2nd at Drury Lane Oakbrook. Dan T. Gibbons was presented the 2013 Autumn Voices Service Award by Rob Johnson of CBS-2 News for his numerous contributions to the community. Dan is best known for the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot which has been held in Elmhurst on Thanksgiving Day for the past 29 years. The Turkey Trot has raised over 2.7 million dollars in funds specifically geared towards hunger relief in the Chicagoland area. Dan received not one, but TWO standing ovations from the sold-out crowd of 220 guests!
The evening was further enhanced by the guest appearance of Brad Garvin of the Metropolitan Opera. Brad moved the audience to tears as he sang along with his two Spirito! nieces, Molly and Claire Garvin of Western Springs. At one point, he had the entire crowd singing along. It was an extremely moving performance for all in attendance.
The fundraiser offered a wide variety of auction and raffle items along with its unparalleled entertainment. The auction included incredible offerings such as a trip to the Royal Palaces of England, Blackhawks tickets including a Zamboni ride, a Bulls corporate suite for 18 guests, the chef from Gibsons preparing a 5 course meal in the winner's home, a trip to Costa Rica and much, much more! The event included dinner, open bar and dessert for each ticket bearer. Additional entertainment was provided by all three Spirito! ensembles, a Flash Mob by the Men of Spirito! during cocktail hour, and strolling guitarist and vocalists. It was a fun-filled evening for all!
