SONJA DRINKWATER
SPECIAL TO THE NEWS
Although participation numbers were down for 30th Annual Scavenger Hunt for Variety in Port Alberni, the total raised was not.
Four very enthusiastic teams raised a total of $7,634.20 for Variety, The Children’s Charity.
New time participants D Man’s Biker Bitchez managed to raise $2,500 and received the Irv Wilson Memorial Trophy for most money raised by a team. This team was comprised of Michelle Butt, mother of the late Daniel Butt, who was killed while cycling last year, and good friends Cara Hearn, Tanya Swain, Sean Craig, Marnie Craig and Yvonne Colyn.
Michelle said she decided to be a part of the scavenger hunt to thank Variety, who made themselves “totally available” and traveled from the mainland to be with the family after the tragic accident.
The ladies wore pink and blue, as those were two of Daniel’s favourite colours, and Michelle was sure that Daniel was smiling down on them as they went about their tasks.
The team that found the most correct items was the Marlin Jellies (Blue Marlin Inn), with Sid Parsons, Tallyn Whittal, Kathy Duncan and Sharelle Dawson. In a little over a week, this group raised $1,372, and they challenge others to participate next year. Each of the members received Variety swag for their efforts.
Keepers of the Hearts were made up of Karen Boire, Ed Nicholles, Marg James, Lynn Steele, Harley Boire and Joe Roodbol (emcee and organizer of the event).
The Sociable Butterflies have entered for quite a few years but, like the butterfly, undergo a metamorphosis every year by giving themselves new names. They are Sharon Wutke, Candice Dods, Heather Newton, Carrie Simister, Andrea Smith and Emily Dunbar.
The Westwind Pub is to be thanked and congratulated for a wonderful hot buffet free of charge to all those who participated and a great venue. Lyle Pitts is also to be thanked for another great scavenger list that was one of the toughest ones that he has come up with in a long time. Thanks would not be complete without mentioning the judges: Deb Moyen (the instigator of this event 30 years ago), Bill Davidson and Phyllis Greenhaugh.