A Celebration of Life, Love, and Remembrance in Emerald City: An Inside Look into the Frances Foundations’ 19th Annual Gala
T
he Frances Foundation hosted its 19th annual gala, “A Night in Emerald City,” at the Ocean Place Resort on October 21, 2023 - attended by nearly 900 supporters.. The festivities started at 6:30 pm and ended at 12:00 am, followed by a pizza afterparty lasting until about 3 am. Guests were dressed to the nines in Wizard of Oz-themed attire accented by radiant smiles and lively spirits as they enjoyed a night of dancing, music, food, and festivity to honor the bravery and resilience of the Frances Family’s warriors and angels. Founder Robert Heugle noted that
BY HANA VOZZO
“the night was outstanding in so many respects,” starting with a cocktail hour, where mingling guests were encouraged to purchase raff le tickets and view the variety of gift baskets provided for the winners. The guests then transitioned into the main room where they were served dinner as the presentation began. One of the first things they did once everyone was settled into their seats was play “Home,” by Phillip Phillips. Guests were urged to hold up their phone f lashlights and wave them to the beat of the song. The sea of lights was an ethereal representation of the power of the Frances Family and their desire to shine a light on the strength of the
warriors, angels, and their families. After the song, Robert gave a magnificent speech, which was followed by an invocation from Deacon Tom DiCanio. Some highlights of the night included the rainbow of joy that appeared when Warrior McKenzy Hupke, who has battled through over 50 surgeries, sang “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” with her angelic voice resulting in a huge applause. Another incredible moment was when Robert presented Rachel Colby from the Holmdel Kiwanis with the Super Trooper Hero award, which is bestowed to a guest who epitomizes the qualities of bravery, grit, determination, self lessness, and the ability to smile in
CommunityMagazineNJ.com WINTER EDITION 2023
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