Bay Village Education Foundation’s fundraiser has record-breaking results

“Creating Opportunities,” Bay Village Education Foundation’s sixth annual fundraiser, was a smashing success this year, raising over $16,500. The sold-out event, held at Arrabiata’s Italian Restaurant in Bay Village on Jan. 29, featured a silent auction filled with unique items, 50/50 raffle, and the “Wheelbarrow for Education” raffle; as well as fabulous dining and an open bar. Several area businesses and organizations donated a variety of products and services in support of this effort that directly benefits Bay Village students and teachers.

For the second year, it was with heavy hearts that the foundation's trustees and guests remembered the life of a friend, BVEF trustee and Bay art teacher Ruth Purdy-Leslie, who passed away last spring. Dwight Clark, trustee and Bay Village city councilman, made a special presentation to her daughter, Janet Purdy.

Clark praised Ruth's "unwavering support of the arts in the Bay Village school system," both as an educator and BVEF trustee for over 20 years.

"Ruth left an indelibly positive impression on so many people," Clark said. "She will be sorely missed and never forgotten."

Last year's BVEF fundraiser was dedicated to the memory of Randy Stang, also a longtime trustee whose untimely passing in February 2010 stunned the community.

BVEF is a non-profit organization that supports, promotes, and funds creative enrichment programs and projects in Bay Village City Schools that are not funded by tax dollars. To help support the BVEF in its mission, contributions may still be made for the annual Ten Campaign until Feb. 10, 2012, either online at www.bayedfoundation.org or mailed to P.O. Box 40262, Bay Village, OH 44140.