You'd never know it was a tough economy if you were at the Connecticut Children's Medical Center's Storybook Gala Saturday night.
The hospital fundraiser netted more than $314,000, thanks to the first grant given by a new foundation for 8-year-old Brianna Kearney, who is fighting leukemia; the generosity of Newtown businessman Bob LeBlanc; and the tenacious efforts of a couple of guest auctioneers - party guy Mike Watt and WDRC-AM (1360) radio personality Brad Davis. And that didn't include money from the silent auction and proceeds from the dinner.
And as if that wasn't enough, throw in some star power, with Tony- and Emmy-winner Ben Vereen and children's author Suzy Kline, a Willington resident best known for her "Horrible Harry" books.
"This is inspiring," said Vereen, who mixed up his pinstripe suit and red tie ensemble with a pair of gray Chuck's (by Converse) sneakers, making it that much easier for him to demonstrate a few dance moves.
Vereen, who toured the hospital earlier in the day, attended the event with his sister, Gloria Walker, and her husband, Leon Walker, who live in Derby.
But Brianna, the inspiration for the Ruby Slippers Cancer Foundation established by her mother and father, Kristina and Michael Kearney, was clearly the belle of the ball.
"I actually have worn this dress before," said Brianna, who wore a red satin party dress and ruby-colored dress shoes. "But I think it looks good."
