FORT LAUDERDALE — Dancing with the Stars of Broward marked its fifth anniversary this month by raising a record $91,200 to help provide food and support services to seniors on low, fixed incomes and grandparents raising their grandchildren.
The Pantry of Broward and The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood presented the glamorous event in the hotel’s ballroom, with hundreds of guests cheering for their favorite dance pair.
The competition was intense as five community leaders and their professional dance partners performed in the event modeled after the popular national TV show. After weeks of tough training, each pair wowed the crowd with two high-energy dance routines. To win, the pairs had to dazzle the judges and audience, and also have a strong showing in raising funds for the event.
Fort Lauderdale Country Club’s Kathy O’Brien and her dance partner Pablo Malco sizzled in disco and tango routines, showcasing precision and style to win the 2013 Dancing with the Stars of Broward championship trophy. Coming in a close second were Alyssa Lovitt of Timpano Italian Chophouse and her dance partner Bryant Williams.
“This year’s dancers, their fans and our wonderful sponsors all stepped up to make the event greater than ever,” said Penny Loughan, executive director of The Pantry of Broward.
“The funds raised are vital to our mission of nourishing and assisting seniors who are struggling to get by and, in many cases, coping with the challenges of raising their grandchildren.”
The nonprofit Pantry of Broward organization provides food and other support services to more than 425 clients and 166 grandchildren throughout Broward County. Founded in 2008, the agency is a nutritional safety net for local seniors in need, many of whom are raising their grandchildren
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