New event to carry on the legacy of the AmiJane Funraiser

An upcoming Rowan House Society event will carry on an annual tradition.

As part of Family Violence Prevention Month, the organization will be hosting Rhythms For Rowan House, a fundraiser night featuring food and live entertainment.

The event is a spiritual successor to the AmiJane Funraiser, an annual event organized by Ed and Debbie Sands in memory of their daughter Amy, who was killed in 2012.

Debbie says she was planning for the AmiJane Funraiser to come to an end after 10 years.

"I felt that it had basically run its course, and last year I talked to the chairman of the board, Chris, and said 'This might be our last one,' and he said 'How about doing one with us next year? You can run it and you can help us.' That's how Rhythms for Rowan House came about. Krystal Hoover is in charge of it, and she's been just a delight to work with."

Debbie still has some involvement in organizing Rhythms For Rowan House, along with Leanne Clifford, who also played a big role in the previous fundraisers.

The event will share a few similarities to the Amijane events.

Live music was a big part of the past events, and the tradition will continue with Rhythms, which will feature performances from Brettyn Rose and Chase Morgan, Joey J, KTR, Reg Gothard, the Relics, and the Sheep River Bandits.

It'll also have a live auction, as well as food and door prizes included with tickets.

Debbie says she's grateful for the chance to continue the tradition and still contribute to an annual fundraiser event for the shelter.

"It's great that we're able to do it, Rowan House is such a worthy cause. It's so nice to have everyone get together, enjoy some music, and be together with their friends. And it keeps our daughter Amy's memory alive, and that's very important to our family."

Rhythms for Rowan House is being held at Best Western Plus on November 18 from 6-11 p.m.

Ticket information as well as contact information for those interested in donating an item for the silent auction can be found on the Rowan House website.

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