Murphy More than 14 bowling teams came out to compete at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina fundraiser Saturday at the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center inside Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel.
Vice President of Philanthropy Dorian Palmer said Harrah’s not only donated the bowling alley for the event, but also gave money toward their goal.
“We will raise about $12,000 from this event,” program coordinator, Gloria Dockery said while helping check teams in for the festive event.
“In addition to the fees collected for the bowling teams, we are auctioning off two handmade quilts and running a raffle.”
The event draws local community groups as well as teachers, students and some church groups. Will Posey, pastor of Murphy First United Methodist Church, encouraged his flock to participate.
John Morton answered the call.
“I just do what the boss says,” Morton said with a laugh. “I’m a terrible bowler. I’m not making that up, I’m horrible.”
Rick Alringer joined Morton.
“I used to bowl in the military,” he said. “I wasn’t bad back then.”
One team came in costume this year and included BBBS program coordinator Sharon Flushing. Her team, “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Gutter,” captured the festive spirit and happy energy of the fundraiser.
On the far end of the lanes, four youth teams competed. “Rizzards of Oz,” referring to the Murphy High School slang rizzard meaning “has game,” composed itself with four juniors from the school. Team member Will Joyner (17) has served as Big Brother for one year.
Murphy juniors Sarah Turner (16) and Molly Ledford (16) serve as Bigs for two Murphy Elementary School students.
“We love it,” Turner said. “We get to eat lunch with them once a week and help them finish work if they need it.”
Ledford added, “We get to take them outside. It’s a bonding experience.”
Both girls bowled for team “GATA,” a Murphy High athletic moniker meaning “Get After Them Aggressively.”
Also represented were Teachers on Strike, a group of educators from Murphy Elementary. Ashley May-Cannon, a kindergarten assistant, said she loves BBBS’ participation in the school.
“The kids are happy when someone gives them attention,” she said. “The BBBS program can offer them more one on one than we can.”
Local vendors donated a bountiful breakfast, including sandwiches from Bojangles, fruit from Ingles and a large stash of apple pies from McDonald’s.
BBBS staff was humbled by the turnout.
“We remain grateful for the folks in Murphy for showing up and showing out,” Palmer said.