For the Big Event, we asked Mrs. O’Neill about what we were going to do during that week. The Big Event is taking place of the Emporium.

“After 33 years we needed something new. It was getting a little stale, and the audience we are trying to attract is looking for something different” said Mrs. O’Neill. The Emporium began as a very formal affair, usually held outside of the school. In recent years it has been held back at BNI in the fieldhouse or the cafeteria where the rooms were transformed into a very elegant setting.

“One of the other issue is price. Tickets to the Emporium was $100 each. This is pretty steep for current parents and younger alumni. Many of those who have supported the Emporium in the past have long since retired and many have moved away. We have created an event that is much more casual and less expensive. Casual attire will be encouraged” said Mrs. O’Neill.

The Big Event will be held in the fieldhouse with more casual decor, an Italian buffet, and a beer/wine garden for the parents. The Big Event will be held on Friday, April 24, from 6-11. Tickets are $50. Guest must be 21 to enter. We will have music, dancing, a bag tournament (50/50, your choice raffle, a grand raffle with a chance to win $5,000), and future.

At the Big Event we have eliminated the silent auction which takes a great effort but has produced lower results each year. We are currently soliciting cash sponsorships to help underwrite the evening, as well as raffle items such as a variety of tickets to sporting events, restaurant certificates, weekend stays, and golf packages.

“We hope to truly make this Big Event by adding something new each year. Our goal is to raise $400,000 for student scholarships.”