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Words Cannot Express What Happened in Cortez, Florida Last Night

| Sande Caplin |

Something amazing happened last night at the Swordfish Grill and Tiki in Cortez, Florida.  It was the 9th annual “Giving Back” charity event and what an event it was.  It was just an extra special evening. 

Guests attending enjoyed delicious food, wonderful drinks, excellent music, and an atmosphere that was filled with nothing but love, love, love.  It was magical.  It was about our community coming together.

Music performances by Tim Chandler, Stockton Brothers and The Billy Rice Band had everyone singing, dancing, and smiling.  The phenomenal staff at the Swordfish worked so hard to make the evening a huge success.

The charitable organizations that were the recipients of the proceeds from the event were the Blessing Bags Project and the Foundation of Dreams/Dream Oaks Camp.  100% of the proceeds from the event went to the charities.  Betsy Plante is the President of the Blessing Bags Project and Elena Cassella is the Executive Director of Foundation for Dreams.

Giving Back

This year, the event had a special meaning.  Local fishing captain, Lance “Crusty” Plowman’s dad, Edwin Mulock who was the founder of Dream Oaks Camp was with us in spirit and I know he was looking down with a big smile on his face.  Lance and his lovely partner, Erin Dolan worked so hard to make the event a great success.

I know I will miss someone, and I apologize in advance, but I want to thank some special folks who are always there to help.  Thank you Heidi and John Banyas for providing the venue, General Manager, Adam Sears and managers Katrina Cox and Lily Banyas who are always behind the scenes to make sure everything works and Anthony Cuccio who made sure the guests had wonderful food.  Sharon Hoatland and Kathy Nunnally, music sponsors from Visit A Paradise Realty and their entire team did a wonderful job coordinating tickets, raffles and more. Thanks to Vicky Sullivan for your wonderful photos.  And of course, the entire team at the Swordfish Grill and Tiki….. you are all just so wonderful. 

See you next year at the 10th Anniversary of “Giving Back!”

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