News

CAF Gala set for September 28th

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

By Tracy Ness

THE CHATHAMS—With one field under its belt and another planned for 2008, the Chatham Athletic Foundation (CAF) will hold it's annual gala on Friday, Sept. 28 to raise funds for the upcoming project.

Last year's gala raised more than $200,000 and together with the funds from the borough and the township, the CAF was able to turn the almost unplayable Lum Avenue field into a beautiful multi-sport turfed facility.

“Last week alone, there were well over 1000 kids playing on the Lum turf field in all sorts of sports including flag and tackle football, soccer and field hockey, said CAF trustee Bob Budlow. “Last year at this time these sports were scattered and if there was rainy weather, the practices were canceled.” The CAF is targeting the Shunpike Field complex for the next project, having agreed to alternate projects between the borough and township.

Mr. Budlow encouraged residents to tour the Lum Avenue field and see what can happen with residents and local government team up.

The gala will be held at the Madison Hotel beginning at 7 p.m. with gourmet food, live bands, auctions and casino-style gaming.

“We have great stuff and the auctions should be a lot of fun.” said Mr. Budlow. “Some of the auction items will include: concert tickets to Bon Jovi and Hanna Montana; signed bats from A-Rod, Derek Jeter and David Wright; signed jerseys from David Beckham, Mariano Rivera, Jason Kidd and Tom Brady; David Yurman Jewelry and watches; vacation homes in Naples, Park City and Kiawah Island and tickets to every sporting event you can think of.” Other items will include a Wii, iPods, GPS systems and other electronics as well as spa treatments and catered dinners.

Registration for the event is limited to 400 and Mr. Budlow said that space is getting tight. Residents interested in attending can purchase tickets online at the CAF website at www.chathamathleticfoundation.org. Donations are also accepted through the website.

© 2011 Chatham Athletic Foundation

Email: theboard@chathamathleticfoundation.org