“It’s the most ever,” Tripp said Wednesday. “It’s for a good cause. You get something in return for the money — entertainment and a good meal, fellowship and socialization.”
The good cause is benefitting groups which serve children and Tripp expects at least $10,000 to be split amongst eight groups from the event scheduled April 22 at Kirkwood Adams Civic Center in Roanoke Rapids. The event starts at 6 p.m.
His past three fundraisers have generated more than $25,000 for groups supporting children.
Benefitting from this year’s event will be the Chaloner Recreation Center pool; Mildred Moore’s after school program in Scotland Neck; the Halifax County Recreational Advisory Board; the Haliwa Saponi Tribal School; Kathleen Robinson’s Lighthouse Ministries; Doris Mack’s System of Care; Roanoke Rapids Youth Baseball Association and Project Graduation.
“It’s our way to give back to our community,” the sheriff said. “I wish we could do more. That’s why we have two main fundraisers each year.”
Performing at the event will be the Motown group Legacy of Kernersville. While the group specializes in Motown, it also plays pop and beach sounds. “This will be the third time they’ve played for me. It’s a fun time. The crowd loves them. We’ve sold tickets just on the fact people knew they were coming back.”
The fundraiser is backed by sponsorships and ticket sales so no county money is being used for the event, Tripp said.
Nixon’s Catering of Edenton will be serving barbecue, fish, shrimp oysters, sweetened and unsweetened tea. Carolina Eagle Distributing will be at the event for those wanting malt beverages.
Ticket sales have been swift and Tripp is appreciative of the help from sponsors. “What’s been the biggest help in raising money is the great support from sponsors.”
Tickets are available at B&J’s Cash and Carry in Roanoke Rapids or by calling Tripp at 252-578-6761.