On Friday, Nov. 16 from 7 to 11 p.m., the Rum Runners band will be appearing at Westwoods in West Haven for a special “Swing into the Season” fundraising music and dance event benefitting the West Haven Community House.
Tickets, which are available at the door, are $35 and include open bar beer, wine and soda only, with cash bar for mixed drinks. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and snacks, as tables of eight will be set up. There will also be a holiday themed auction, with all proceeds benefiting the West Haven Community House.
The Westwoods/Italian American Center is located at 85 Chase Lane, West Haven.
The Rum Runners is very popular locally, playing a host of fundraising and special events including the Milford Oyster Festival and West Haven Summer Concert Series. Band members include John Mamone, Nancy Cilbrith, Doug Edo, Mike Hudd, Brian Robichaud, Pat Dunigan and Scott Moran.
The Rum Runners, which includes members of the Milford fire department, was formed in August 1998 by four firefighters from New Haven and Milford and the son-in-law and daughter of a retired New Haven firefighter. “From the beginning, it was decided that we would do what we loved to do and do it for a good cause - whatever that cause may be,” according to the band’s online promotional page.
“Over the last 10 years we’ve helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for people and charities in need from all over Connecticut, including a show that helped raise more than $5,000 for the victims of 9/11.
“Although our line-up may have had a few changes over the years - our goal has stayed the same - to have fun and play good music - all the while helping people.”
“We are very excited to have the Rum Runners doing a show for us,” said Community House Executive Director Patty Stevens. “Their popularity and philanthropy in the region are tremendous, and bringing them back to West Haven is a special treat to help us kick off the holiday season, especially in the wake of the recent storm.
Programs and services offered by the West Haven Community House include the Head Start pre-school program, the School Age Child Care and the Kids in the Neighborhood programs serving students in West Haven, and residential and day program services for adults with disabilities, according to Development & Communications Director Chris Carroll.
For tickets to the event, call Dawn Sullivan at 203-257-6289, Carroll at (203) 868-6837, or the Community House office at (203) 934-5221.
