Skiers ditched the snow pants and suited up for a gala instead at the Mt. Timothy Valentines Day Dinner and Dance fundraiser on Feb. 11.
The Valley Room at the 100 Mile Lodge and Conference Centre was decorated to match the occasion, with red and heart-themed table decorations and lighting adding to the ambiance.
Around 70 items were up for auction at this year's event, including a negligee and Saxx boxers modelled by Mt. Timothy staff during the entertainment portion of the evening.
"We wanted it to be fun this year," says Debbie Dengel, the event organizer and a member of the Mt. Timothy board of directors. "We made some changes, so we added fun and entertainment and people were enthusiastic — and it was an opportunity for those who chose to, to get dressed up."
The event raised $15,300 through auction sales and tax-refundable donations.
Normally the event is a live auction, but this year a silent auction, live music, and a dance were added instead.
Chef William Holyk volunteered his time to prepare a gourmet dinner for ticket holders and Craig Davidiuk of Ultimate Promotions donated the lights and sound set up.
The money will go towards purchasing new rental equipment and equipment for the hill itself.
The Mt. Timothy Ski hill is one of the few non-profit run ski hills left in Western Canada.
"We're just grateful to the community for all their support," says Dengel. She encourages anyone who is interested in donating to get in touch with the ski hill or herself.
"A huge thank you to everyone who supports our little hill, from the people who buy the tickets, to those who donate items to the people who purchase the items," she says.
Otherwise, she says, don't be discouraged by melting snow in town, the conditions on the hill are still looking great.
"It's a great family hill, it's a great place to ski."
