Dunebrook hosted a mystery dinner theatre, “Conundrum on the Crackerjack Cruise” on May 20 starring cast members from the La Porte Little Theatre. Proceeds will benefit Dunebrook’s family support and education and Child Advocacy Center.
La Porte Little Theatre was transformed into the Grand Jubilation cruise ship, and the cast of characters led guests on an adventure to solve the mystery of the stolen jewel. Led by “Cruise Director” Katy Gartland, fellow actors Sandy Gleim, Roscoe Hoffman, Bonnie Quigley, Larry Piotrowski, Robert and Susie Richter, Matt Robinson, Lucy Vergo and Shannon Wyels shared hilarious alibis as guests interacted with and interrogated suspects. Laughter rang out during the special cruise ship games, including the “Newlywed Game” featuring John and Yolla Espar and Beverly Mrozinski and impersonations featuring Renee Organ, Ed Raab and Jimmy Jones.
Dunebrook’s Executive Director, Jeanne Ann Cannon, recognized C. Jack and Betty Trickler with the Lester Radke Community Service Award, honoring Betty’s early work in creating Dunebrook and their continuing efforts as ambassadors for children’s well-being.
Board President Tim Gartland comments, “We wanted to do something a little different this year. As a not-for-profit, we have to raise funds so that we can continue to serve families who desire and need parenting support. There is a great need in our community for Dunebrook, because children are our future.” He adds, “The mystery dinner theatre gave us the chance to showcase this gem we have in the La Porte Little Theatre and its fine actors while raising such vital funds for our work at Dunebrook.”
Proceeds from the event, which attracted lead Gold Sponsorships from Edward Jones/Tim Gartland, LifeVantage, NIPSCO, talk to ted inc. and no place like HOME, will support Dunebrook’s home visitation programs and parenting classes, Westville Little School, and the Child Advocacy Center which performs forensic interviews upon allegations or suspicions of child abuse and provides family advocacy.
Dunebrook serves more than 300 families each month, and has offices in Michigan City and Valparaiso, and serves La Porte, Porter, Starke, Jasper, Pulaski and Newton Counties. For more information about enrolling in Dunebrook’s programs, volunteer opportunities or to request a speaker, call 800/897-0007 or visit www.dunebrook.org.