On October 3, the My City Magazine team joined in the fun at Blackstone’s Pub & Grill in Downtown Flint to support Pink Night, an annual fundraiser hosted by Financial Plus Federal Credit Union. Celebrating the lives of breast cancer survivors, the proceeds of Pink Night support the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. The highlight of the evening was the “artistic, yet conservative” Brassiere Fashion Show and live auction of 30 creatively decorated bras.
The bras were designed and decorated by staff of area businesses, and modeled by beautiful local volunteers. The first stunning bra up for auction was adorned with dazzling white gemstones, bold royal blue hues, and sapphire butterfly wings, donated by Shard Financial and sold for $400. Another creatively decorated bra was donated by the VFW and featured pins from the wars of Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War. The “Mother of Pearl” bra donated by the Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce was another favorite, while the “Who’s Your Tiger?” bra donated by Sorrento’s Restaurant brought in a whopping $1,300! One brassiere made the bold statement, “Cancer Sucks,” recognizing the harsh reality of the disease. “Silver Lining” was an elegant creation donated by Rejuv Ave Skin Spa. “We just love Pink Night!” exclaimed Nina Haffajee of ReJuv Ave about their donation, “and we’re happy to support this great cause.” Pink Night supporters were treated to a dinner buffet, drinks and entertainment. The Live Auction started with a bang when the P!NK Package sold for $1,400. The package included two tickets to see pop star P!nk perform at The Palace of Auburn Hills on November 6, a car for the weekend, and a Strat electric guitar autographed by P!nk herself. Other live auction favorites included a Las Vegas Hotel Stay, a Mackinac Island Package, boxing gloves autographed by Flint’s own Claressa Shields, and two tickets to the “Ellen” (DeGeneres) show.
Olga Long, Vice President of Marketing at Financial Plus Federal Credit Union, shared with attendees a story from one of Pink Night’s biggest supporters whose mother valiantly fought breast cancer but passed away on October 6. The funds donated at her mother’s funeral were made over to Pink Night. “This is just one example of how our community has embraced this cause,” says Olga. “She donated the money in memory of her mother so that no one else would have to lose a mother, sister, grandmother, wife or neighbor to this insidious disease.” Olga was happy to report that the fundraiser did reach its $50,000 goal. “This has been the best Pink Night ever!” she exclaimed. “I’m overwhelmed by the generosity.”
Many, many people helped make the seventh annual fundraising event a success. Financial Plus sends a huge thank you to everyone who supported Pink Night, especially the sponsors, the Pink Night Committee and the volunteers. “There was even a waiting list to volunteer!” Olga exclaimed. “We are touched that so many people supported this great cause.”
PHOTOS BY AUTUMN D. RUMMEL
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