Boost for hurricane relief fund
More than £4000 was raised to help rebuild the devastated hurricane-hit island of Puerto Rico at a Stirling pub fundraiser last month.
Nicky Tams in Baker Street held the event in aid of ‘United for Puerto Rico’ which was organised by a woman from the Caribbean island who now calls Stirling her home, Marilyn Chaparro-Connolly.
Marilyn (49) had been visiting her parents on the island when Hurricane Maria hit on September 20 wiping out her 85-year-old father’s avocado and mango trees. Three and a half million Puerto Ricans were left without power and running water.
Marilyn had left husband Kevin and son Rio back in Stirling and was unable to return to the UK for three weeks after the hurricane struck the island.
The Stirling fundraiser at Nicky Tams featured band ‘Doon at the Crossroads’ and DJ George Brock who provided the music which included blues, salsa and mambo.
Other venues which contributed to the evening were Dawg Hoose, Settle Inn, Molly Malones and Brewdog.
Marilyn said: “I am overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who helped make this a successful event.
“I couldn’t have done this without the help and support of my family, friends and all of the businesses that donated such amazing prizes for both the raffle and the auction.
“I am so grateful for having such wonderful people in my life. Thank you Team Puerto Rico! Thank you Scotland!”
The money was raised through the sales of raffle tickets, cash donations, wristband and t-shirt sales and a live auction. Nettl of Stirling had made custom-designed t-shirts made for the event.
Owner of Nicky Tams Bar and Bothy Andrea Lindsay said: “There was so much love and generosity from people. Marilyn poured her heart and soul into this event and we just feel honoured to have been a part of it.”