Bridget Brigade BBQ rocks to help families

The Bridget Brigade hosted its first "Back in the Saddle BBQ" last Saturday night at the Winchester Town Hall. The event attracted over 200 supporters and their families raised more than $20,000, with all proceeds going towards their mission of helping families struggling to care for a critically ill child.

Featuring rock hits from Winchester Community Music School's hot teen band "OK NOW" and barbecue from Lester's, the event was staffed by teen volunteers from Winchester High School and sponsored by the Rotary Club.

Other businesses backing the charity fundraiser included: Teddie Peanut Butter, Pediatricians Inc., Metropolitan Uniform & Linen Services (Frank and Veronica Gianci), Northeast PHO staff, Peterson Party Center, Wine Country Winchester and Pairings - Exploring Wine and Food.

Rita McGoldrick, Maura Payne, Michele Dobbins and Marisa Doherty used their decorative skill in turning the Town Hall auditorium into the perfect picnic setting for the barbecue and the silent auction was a smash hit because of the kind donations of the Salyard, Manuel, Payne, McAnena, Driscoll and Coakley families, as well as the generosity of James Dobbins, Rick Reis and William Casey. In keeping with the charitable spirit of the night, 50-50 raffle winners Deb and Pat Murray donated all their winnings to the Bridget Brigade.

For more information about The Bridget Brigade, visit their foundation website at www.bridgetbrigade.org.