Andorra Kids’ annual reunion went straight to the dogs
Proceeds from the event donated to local canine charities
On Saturday, September 24, 2022 the Andorra Kids Group celebrated their 9th annual reunionbenefit Co- hosted by group members Nancy Shearer-Crescenzo and Sharon Schultz and their core support group of Andorra Kid members.
It was a beautiful and sunny day at St Gregory’s Hagopian Hall with 115 people in attendance. Some old faces and some brand new gathered to enjoy a fun filled day of hugs, smiles, tears and stories of old.
The crowd was delighted by the vocals and classic rock in the air by group members Eric and Joel Stimmler who surprised the group by debuting an original Andorra Kids song that they wrote and produced “A Slice of Heaven” (Available on YouTube). A sing along was performed with Eric & Joel as the crowd sang along to the lyrics which had been handed out. This truly rocked the house and was a huge hit at the event.
The Andorra Kids group began it’s legacy as an Andorra Baby Boomers Facebook group started by member Chris Solarski, Sr back in 2008. In 2014 the Cat McCormick Beef & Beer benefiting the humane society then becoming the Andorra Kids Reunion which continues to support animal rescue to this day.
Throughout the years the group evolved into community service projects supporting Leverington Historic Cemetery, Fairmount Park Clean up days and Bring Back our Park Rangers which is an on-going Facebook group that protects our beloved Fairmount Park-Wissahickon Valley and wildlife who call it home as well as the overall safety of the visitors at large.
A buffet like no other I had ever seen or tasted was prepared by group members Bernie Barth andmember Danny Logan. Shrimp Boil, chicken cacciatore, and barbecue pulled pork just to name a few. Just endless tables of tasty cuisine and crafty desserts like logo decorated cupcakes by Judy Sasse
Into the next room an amazing raffle table of art and gift cards donated and supported by local businesses and group members was buzzing with ticket sales all for a chance to win as was the TShirt table to grab the quickly going 2022 Courtesy Stables Shirt or a Classic Teddyeskum.
The hall suddenly fell silent as all group members gathered around. Solemnly and with reverence group member Colleen
Gorman began reading the “Andorra Angels List”, 116 names in total. Tears fell as each fallen member was remembered. A special angel tribute was dedicated to Greta DiFerdinand who sadly passed away in 2022, Greta had co-hosted the groups 1st benefit.
In honor of the Angels the group purchased and dedicated park benches at the base of the Rex Ave bridge in Fairmount Park. This is a sacred place where group members visit to reflect and remember their family and friends gone before us.
In the end the whole reunion-benefit went to the dogs, well all proceeds did. So far the 2022 reunion has raised nearly $5,000 in physical and monetary donations which will be shared among 3 rescues.
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue and our newest rescue Tiny Paws to assist our voiceless, helpless animals in need. Over 9 years the group has raised nearly $70,000, all going directly to serve our rescues in need.