Staff Reports
One need not sing well at the upcoming Crooners for CASA fundraiser. But, well, you do have to sing.
Those who open their mouths and lend their voices to the cause at 6:30 p.m. April 11 also will help other volunteers lend their voices to speak for abused youngsters via Advocates For Children. That nonprofit agency trains people to be a voice in court for abused and neglected children in south central Indiana.
The event was so popular in its inaugural presentation last year — selling out more than 200 tickets in just a few weeks — that it is moving this year from Mill Race Center to a bigger space at The Commons, 300 Washington St., in Columbus.
Last year’s goal was $25,000. But audience members raised about $40,000, according to organizers.
The gathering features local groups made up of prominent community members performing karaoke songs in competition for audience donations — all to benefit Advocates for Children. Following the group performances and announcement of winners, an “open mic” session allows audience members to perform as well.
Popular area disc jockey Apollo will emcee and present the music. The evening’s menu will consist of hors d’oeuvres from Smith’s Row and a cash bar from Tre Bicchieri.
Crooners For CASA creator and event chairman Mike Rossetti said he has been pleased with the support.
“People know that they’re supporting an important cause, and they had a great time last year,” Rossetti said. “We hope that this year’s event is even better.”
Last year’s winners was a group called The Melanies, a team composed of Tanya Ely, Peggy Clarence, Mandy Miller, Patty Hannasch and Vikki Johnson. Some team members engaged in substantial humor, joking that they would serve as backup singers — way backed up from the microphone.
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What: Second Annual Crooners For CASA, a fundraiser featuring prominent local residents engaged in a karaoke contest with audience members voting with money for their favorites. Money goes to CASA’s work to help abused and neglected children.
When: 6:30 to 11 p.m. April 11.
Where: The Commons, 300 Washington St., Columbus.
Tickets: $40 per person or $400 for a table of eight. Available at the CASA office at the Doug Otto Center, 1531 13th St. in Columbus.
Sponsors: The Republic and MainSource Bank as stage sponsors, as well as the addition of new spotlight sponsors White River Broadcasting and Franciscan St. Francis Health.
Additional community support comes from Columbus Regional Hospital, Taylor Bros. Construction, Jan Brinkman – Century 21 Breeden Realtor, Elwood Staffing, SIHO, Enkei, Thomasson, Thomasson, Long & Guthrie, and Columbus Internal Medicine Associates
Information: 812-372-2808 or apowerfulvoice.org/crooners.
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