Mantua – “One day I walked outside and the sunset was awesome, so I grabbed the camera and took some photos,” shared CMS eighth-grader Ben Roegiers. The light that day inspired the 13-year-old Crestwood Middle School student with a newfound passion for landscape photography. Since that day six months ago, Roegiers has been trekking to local parks to capture scenic views, which he shares in his online store www.benroegiersphotography.com.
When he learned that the Sunshine Fund at his school was looking for donations, his mom convinced him to share a photo — and his gift of capturing light — with the worthy cause. “I wanted to donate because it is my way of giving back to fellow students in need,” Roegiers explained.
According to CMS teacher Kim Marfy, the Sunshine Fund has helped send students to Washington DC for the 8th grade trip, covered Pay to Participate fees, purchased track spikes and basketball shoes for athletes, covered temporary hotel costs for families who lost housing, provided groceries or paid an overdue utility bill to keep electricity and heat on for local families experiencing financial difficulty. Last year, the event raised roughly $3,000.
Marfy explained that CMS has had a talent show for 10 years. “Nine years ago is when we started a show for parents in the evening,” she noted. “The event has snowballed,” Marfy explained. “Each year we get a little more organized and a little more creative.” She noted that in 2017 a dinner was added with a few items auctioned off that evening. In 2018 the auction grew; last year, the auction moved online.
This year’s auction list includes nearly 50 items, one of which is a framed autumn photo by 13-year-old Roegiers. But that’s not all the auction has to offer. Whether you’d like a gift certificate for a facial, skydiving, donuts or plants, there is something for everyone. Golfing, tickets for the Great Lakes Science Center, or a performance at Playhouse Square, you’ll be sure to find something you’d like. And it’s all for a good cause. Visit https://www.biddingowl.com/Auction/home.cfm?auctionID=17261 to check out the options.
Bidding is available online now through March 12 at 4pm; credit cards and Paypal are accepted. Beginning after 4 pm on the night of the event, bid sheets will be printed and bids can be placed in person for those attending the talent show. Proxy bids can be placed online for those not in attendance; they will be honored at the live auction.
This year’s Night of Sunshine will include 29 Performers, comprised of 6thm 7th, and 8th grader students who each auditioned for their spots. The evening will be orchestrated by 15 crew members comprised of 8th grade Geometry students, as well as another 15 CMS Hero student volunteers. The event takes place at CMS on Thursday, March 12th at 7 pm.
For more information on the event or the Sunshine Fund, contact Marfy at kmarfy@crestwoodschools.org.
