10th anniversary gala-samba night!

Lyons Celebrates 10 years with a Samba Party to Remember
Article appeared in the Redstone Review November issue
Last Friday, November 10th, the Lyons Community Foundation put on a Brazilian Carnival themed birthday party that brought out 200 of Lyons-area residents in a rousing celebration of community.  Samba Colorado dancers inspired the crowd in learning some new moves, leading a Congo line and getting citizens of all ages out of their chairs.  Highlights for attendees were reported as the amazing food, company of old and new neighbors, and the incredible music of Brazilian soul ensemble Sambadende. 

“The goal of the 10th anniversary gala was to really recognize and celebrate 10 years of service to Lyons.  Founding board members and donors were in attendance as well as current board members and citizens who are involved in the community-inspired work that still continues a decade later”, says Laura Levy executive advisory board vice chair and presenting sponsor for the event.  The annual gala’s goal is also to provide fundraising that will support all the work that goes on in the community for the following year.  Local resources such as LEAF/food pantry, the summer concert series in Sandstone Park, public art installations, and the holiday fireworks following the parade of lights all benefit from LCF granting.  At the time of press the results are not available, however the proceeds from the gala combined with the Annual Appeal following shortly will go towards sustaining the dozens of worthwhile projects that happen in Lyons every year due to LCF granting.

Gala guest and local entrepreneur Wayne Anderson commented “without the support of LCF, we wouldn’t be where we are today.  In the time following the flood, LCF stepped up and lent us a hand, we want to come out and show our appreciation”.  Indeed.  Spirit Hound Distillers was well represented in the dining room, and on the dance floor. Spirit Hound also provided their craft spirits for Gala cocktails.

In an event this size, there are literally dozens of community members and businesses that are responsible for making it all happen.  The gala committee consisting of Laura Levy, Debbie Simms, Jennie Lock, Kari Basey, Jeanne Moore, Kristen Bruckner, Beth Smith, Toni St John, Kim Lear, Kathy Leiding, Gabry Cornell, Dave Lock and Pam Freeman dedicated countless hours in planning and executing the gala.  In addition, all the local sponsors were instrumental in allowing the party to be put on with such an amazing flair. LCF wishes to thank Laura Levy/Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, Gateway Realty Group, Colorado Lending Group, Smokin Dave’s BBQ, Tucker Group Real Estate, Brain McCann Real Estate, 24-7 Restoration, Lyons ReRuns, and Lyons Automotive. 

​Additionally, locally owned businesses donated their services including Lionscrest Manor, A Spice of Life Catering, Richardo’s Decaf Liquor, Spirit Hound Distillers, St Vrain Market, and Oskar Blues.  There were also 80 area individuals and locally owned businesses who donated to the silent auction.  It truly takes a village to support each other and LCF is enormously grateful for their generosity.

The Lyons Community Foundation exists to improve the quality of life, build a culture of giving, and encourage positive change in the Greater Lyons Area.  We invite all area citizens to engage and celebrate your foundation.  If you didn’t have the opportunity to attend the gala, but would still like to contribute to our community based work, please visit www.lyonscf.org/give 

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