Page 3 - MARCH 2025

March 2025
NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM
Page 3
Community
voicesagainstviolence.net/ vavball/. There are op- tions to buy a single ticket or purchase a table for ten. The team is still looking for sponsors for this fantastic event; for more informa- tion on tickets or to become a sponsor, please visit their website!
You won’t want to miss this rockin’ night of nos- talgia, community, and fun—all in support of an incredible cause. So slick back your hair, lace up your saddle shoes, and join Voices Against Violence for an unforgettable evening at the Fantastically Fun Sock Hop. See you on the dance floor, daddy-o!
VAV
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celebration being better than the last.
This year, the ball will have the music stylings of Sly Rich- ard, a phenomenal New Hamp- shire-based rock band that plays original songs and covers. An ex- citing new part of this year is that the silent auction will start early. In the past, the silent auction was held during the event, but now it will be kicking off online in early March.
Tina Mulleavey, the Executive Director of Voices Against Vio- lence, said they’re looking forward to seeing everyone dress up. “It’s
so much fun to see everyone get dressed up and put thought into the costumes. We’ve seen some amazing costumes for all the fun themes we’ve done,” Mulleavey said. Of course, it’s not all about the fantastic outfits people create but what it’s all for. “It’s just a fun way to connect with the commu- nity in a fun setting,” Tina con- tinued.
All of the proceeds from the celebration go to Voices Against Violence, supporting free and confidential services for those im- pacted by domestic and sexual vi- olence in the community.
Every year, it takes a lot of ef- fort to make this event an incred- ible success, and the Voices team
goes above and beyond every year. “We’re a small but mighty team,” Mul- leavey expressed. And with the help of their in- credible sponsors, the an- nual ball is always a treat for the community.
Attendees will have quite a bit to look forward to at the Sock Hop! After getting on your saddle shoes, you can bid in the live auction that will have spectacular prizes like an autographed Bruins jer- sey, tickets to Loon Moun- tain, and much more.
Interested attend- ees can buy tickets on- line right on the Voices’ website: https://www.
March 7th • 4:30-7PM
FISH FRY
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fried fish, French fries, coleslaw, rolls, drinks, and a variety of homemade desserts donated by volunteers and family members of the Knights. Attendees can enjoy their meal in person or take it to go. The cost is $15 per per- son or $50 for a family of four, making it a delicious way to con- tribute to a good cause.
Proceeds from the event di- rectly support the Knights’ exten- sive charitable initiatives. In 2024, the Bristol Knights of Columbus provided two $1,000 scholarships to Newfound Regional High School graduates, raised over $3,400 for Bristol Community Services during Hunger Action Month, and played a crucial role in running the Newfound Area Secret Santa Program. The lat- ter provided clothing and gifts to over 100 children in the re- gion who might otherwise have gone without during the holiday season. The Knights also assist community members by offering transportation for church services and medical appointments.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the community's generosity,” McFarland said. “The success of these events allows us to continue helping those who need it most, whether it’s providing food, finan- cial assistance, or simply ensuring
no one in our community feels left behind.”
The Knights’ commitment to service extends beyond fundrais- ing. The organization fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and connection among its members, which McFarland, who joined in 2018, deeply values. He has served as Financial Secretary since the year he joined and took on the role of Grand Knight in 2022.
“The bonds we share within the council are extremely spe- cial,” he said. “We support each other just as much as we support the community.”
Looking ahead, the Bristol Knights of Columbus plan to continue their efforts, with aspi- rations to expand their charitable reach and ensure that no mem- ber of the Newfound Area com- munity feels marginalized. Events like the Fish Fry are integral to these goals, and McFarland hopes the upcoming gathering will again bring neighbors together to support a great cause.
Those interested in attending the Fish Fry can visit the Marian Center on Lake Street in Bristol on March 7th. With good food, friendly faces, and a meaningful cause, it’s sure to be another suc- cessful event for the Knights of Columbus and the community they serve.