FREEPORT—The Legacy Foundation had a full house for its first Toast of the Town celebration and fundraiser for Aquin Catholic Schools on Aug. 25.

 

The night featured two comedians, a live auction, dinner, a silent auction and more. 

 

Allison Pierson, an Aquin Central Catholic High School graduate, was among numerous event volunteers. 

 

Pierson, who was at the wine grab table before dinner, said she helped with some of the “extra” fundraising events, such as the wine grab, dessert raffle and card draw 50/50 raffle.

 

She said the “younger generation” of Aquin grads wanted to support their school and recruited members of the “older generation” to help.

 

Members of the Legacy Foundation committee that organized the inaugural dinner and fundraiser are Aubrey Chang, class of 2012; Nick St. Ores, 2005; Brandon King, 2008; Zack Hoppenjan, 2007; and Alexa (Fontana) Talbert, 2008.

 

Laura Diemer, director of communication for the Freeport Catholic schools, said, “Estimates right now are that the event grossed over $32,000 and will net $26,000. Of course, those are our early estimates.”

 

Helping generate the total were Damian “Dame” Grant, class of 1999 and now a stand-up comic, who opened for comedian John DaCosse of Chicago’s WGN radio.

 

Auctioneer Doug Munda, with help from his wife, Kelley, and a few other volunteers, conducted a live auction. The Mundas are parents of Aquin seventh-grader, Delaney.

 

The auction included an autographed jersey from Sophie Brunner, class of 2013, from her days as a Sun Devil at Arizona State. Brunner attended the banquet before returning to Italy to play basketball.