Campbell River is getting ready to host for the second time, the Campbell River Perinatal Society’s own version of “Dancing with the Stars”.
For those who may have missed it last year, it is a night of entertainment including local stars competing for the coveted title of top dancer. And just like the television show, the stars are not professional dancers, who are now working hard with a professional. The event is staged similar to the real show, in that there is a panel of judges, and instead of commercials there are guest entertainers.
This year’s event takes place on Oct. 6, 7 p.m. at the Eagle’s Hall. The tickets are $40, and include light food and a fabulous night of entertainment. This year’s feature band is Reunion. Tickets can be purchased at Stereo Fitness, Chameleon Hair Lounge, and Trends and Friends.
The purpose of this event is to raise money for the Campbell River Perinatal Society’s New Dawn House. This is a place where at risk pregnant women will have a safe place to receive education and counselling for their own health and the health of their child. The goal is to have a home where these women can live and learn how to be great moms.
Money is raised through pledges or votes. Each vote is $5, 10 for $15, or 15 for $50 (yes, you can vote often) and even before the event. Next week, the website (newdawnhouse.org) will have links to assist in voting for your favourite stars. The dancer who raises the most funds is the winner.
There are a number of competitors, and the following are the first three to be featured.
Pam Posein is an Alberta born farm girl who now makes her home here, working as a chiropractor. She put on her dancing shoes for the first time about 10 years ago, with her favourite dances being the tango, meringue, waltz and the west coast swing. She promises to dance her heart out for the moms.
Matt Bruining originally hails from the Netherlands, but grew up in southern Alberta. Working for RBC has allowed him to help out in many community charities. Bruining remembers reluctantly taking part in the mandatory dance curriculum for his PE requirement in high school. But he is a fighter, and has spent hours relearning those steps. He promises to dazzle everyone with his great moves.
Mike Finn, otherwise known as our resident “dancing dentist”, loves being involved in hockey and baseball with his children, and happily volunteers. Even though he doesn’t have a dance background, he cheerfully agreed to risk ridicule for this great cause. However, his dancing skills have excelled so quickly, that he claims he just might be unbeatable – his instructor says “his style is unique, he’s pioneering new dance moves that have yet to be introduced in the dance world”.