ICYMI: The Arc of Madison Cortland to celebrate Wind Dancers 20th anniversary
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Wind Dancers; a group of dancers with developmental disabilities from Oneida and the surrounding area brought together by The Arc of Madison Cortland. A special performance will be held at The Arc of Madison Cortland’s annual dinner and awards ceremony.
Some members of the Wind Dancers reflected on their time in the group and shared some of their best memories from over the years:
“I enjoy spending time with friends and all of the different styles of music we dance to.” –Elizabeth Eberst
“My favorite part of Wind Dancers is dancing and having fun with my friends.” – Samantha Dixon
“I like being able to move my body to the music, especially Michael Jackson and Elvis music.” – Janet Catterson
“My favorite memory is when Michelle and Tammy taught me the dance to ‘Shake It Off’ by Taylor Swift.” – Shelly Carolla
“My favorite memories were dancing to ‘Hero’ for Paulette Pierce and to ‘Super Trooper’ for Ray Lewandowski. That was a lot of fun.” – Jessica Bero
This year’s Annual Dinner will feature guest speaker Rose Root, emcee Jeffery Mercer from News Channel and a raffle for an original painting by Ashley Tyler. Award recipients are: Adam Nouchi receiving the Special Achievement Award; Cathy Merkel, receiving the Founders Humanitarian Award; Ashley Aitchison receiving the Sandra DuBuke Direct Support Professional Award; Nichole Hastings is receiving the Volunteer of the Year Award; Kip Bailey receiving the President’s Award; Barb McDermott receiving the Executive Director’s Award and HipStir receiving Employer of the Year Award.
The cost of the event is $25 per person which includes a buffet dinner, the entertainment of the Wind Dancers and the Awards Ceremony. The dinner will be hosted at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Cazenovia Thursday, June 7. The cash bar will open at 5:30 p.m. with the Annual Membership Meeting following. Purchase your tickets online at www.arcofmc.org/annual-dinner or call 315-363-3389 by June 1.