TCH to host 98th Anniversary Celebration — “Speakeasy” Gala
An upcoming celebration will mark the anniversary of The Community House on Sanibel.
TCH will host its 98th Anniversary Celebration — “Speakeasy” Gala on Jan. 25 from 5 to 9 p.m. The evening will feature live music and dancing, an auction, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, and more.
“It’s our big annual fundraiser,” Executive Director Emily Ankerson said.
TCH was founded in 1927, so this year’s theme will tie perfectly to its origins and heritage.
“We are doing a 1920s, Roaring ’20s, Speakeasy theme,” she said.
Local band The Hot Buttered Nuggets will provide the live entertainment.
“For this event, they’re going to match our theme and perform music that will go with the 1920s Speakeasy,” Ankerson said. “They come in costume — they’re fun entertainment.”
Well-known auctioneer Tommy Williams will lead the live auction.
“We have several really great items,” she said.
Some prizes up for grabs include a private cooking class for 12 with Chef Loretta Paganini, a gift certificate to Congress Jewelers, a Mahjong set from Bubbly Latitude and Mahjong session with TCH Board Member Christine Szymanczyk, and artist Barb Nicholson donated an art class at her studio.
“There’s a boat outing with Billy Kirkland from Billy’s Bikes. It can be either fishing or site sighting. There is a family photo session with photographer Shane Antalick and one custom framing to go with it from Sanibel Art and Frame,” Ankerson said. “A private cocktail party for up to 20 people hosted at The Community House, in collaboration with Jerry’s Foods, and Florabel will do centerpieces for that.”
Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served up by Chef Melissa Donahue, of Sweet Melissa’s Cafe. Additionally, she is organizing bites donated by more local restaurants, including Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market and others.
An open bar will be included.
“We’ll have the traditional bar refreshments, and we’ll have some signature cocktails to go with the time period,” she said, citing the gin-based Bee’s Knees and the vodka-based Chicago Shootout.
“We’ll also have bubbly,” Ankerson added.
The Bubble Room will offer a mix of its cakes for dessert.
“We’re going to have like a photo booth type of station,” she said.
Attendees will also receive a small gift of appreciation from TCH.
“1920s attire is encouraged but not required,” Ankerson said, noting that ticket holders are already talking about flapper dresses, feather boas and even fake cigars, plus Dapper Dan and mobster outfits.
“But any island cocktail attire is appropriate,” she added.
Tickets are $175 per person.
“They should act quickly on their tickets,” Ankerson said.
The proceeds raised will benefit TCH.
“They do go to our general operations and our programs and basically in support of The Community House and keeping our doors open. Being a historic building, we have a lot we have to upkeep to maintain it,” she said, noting that the funds also provide a variety of programs at an affordable price.
“So The Community House has something for everyone,” she added.
The public is encouraged to reserve a ticket.
“It’s a unique event — it’s a fun way to support a longstanding community treasure,” Ankerson said. “It’ll be a really fun event and a way to show their support.”
To purchase tickets, visit https://sanibelcommunityhouse.net/ or call 239-472-2155.
For more information, contact 239-472-2155.
Donations are welcome and appreciated from those who want to support TCH but cannot attend.
Event sponsors include: Bank of the Islands, Clair Beckmann, Dick and Vicki Bourdow, Bubbly Latitude, Robin Cook of Suncoast Equity Management, Heidrick & Co. Insurance, John and Jane Henshaw, Jerry’s Foods, Don and Joan McDonald, Arlene and Scott Mowry, Mark and Laura Reiner, Tom and Judie Sharbaugh, She Sells Sea Shells, Szymanczyk family, The Health Whisperer, The Island Store, The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, and Kirk and Lisa Whalen.
The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
…..
IF YOU GO
What
98th Anniversary Celebration — “Speakeasy” Gala
When
Jan. 25 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Where
The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Details
Tickets are $175 per person