A panel from the CanadIan AIDS Memorial Quilt was on display at the Capitol Centre in North Bay during AIDS Awareness Week. Three panels were shipped to North Bay for the event. Each panel is made up of sections, created by family and friends and dedicated to their loved ones who have died from HIV/AIDS.

December 1, 2011
Memorial Quilt at Capitol Centre (AIDS Awareness Week)

Canadian AIDS Memorial Quilt section # 27 was on display at the North Bay Capitol Centre during AIDS Awareness Week. It is one of 67 - 12' x 12' sections, each made up of up to eight panels. Each panel - featuring clothing, photographs, artwork etc. - is a poignant tribute to a loved one who died from HIV/AIDS, created by their family or friends. There  are over 600 panels in the Canadian AIDS Memorial Quilt. Three of the sections were made available to ACNBA for AIDS Awareness Week.

Day Without Art displays pay tribute to arts community members who have died from HIV/AIDS, (top) Deluxe Custom Tattoo Studio, White Water Gallery (middle) and K Bros Art Gallery (below). 

December 1, 2011
Day Without Art (AIDS Awareness Week)

Various North Bay art galleries and tattoo studios marked Day Without Art, December 1st by symbolically covering artwork in their workplaces. Acadian K Bros Art Gallery, White Water Gallery, WKP Kennedy Gallery, Ferneyhough Contemporary, artonmain gallery, Deluxe Custom Tattoo, Dead City Tattoos, Sacred Art Skin Grafix and Northern Custom Tattoo studios all participated.

Nipissing University was one of several locations around North Bay where the Canadian AIDS Awareness Week was on display through ACNBA. Here HIV/AIDS Educator Dennis Chippa and volunteer Katie Scott speak to students about the event December 1st on World AIDS Day. HIV/AIDS information, educational materials and other assorted give aways were distributed. 

December 1, 2011
AIDS Awareness Week

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith (L), joins ACNBA Executive Director, Stacey Mayhall and North Bay Mayor, Al McDonald in admiring the impromptu World Hepatitis Day painting created by visitors to the event held at ACNBA's office July 27th.

July 27, 2011
World Hepatitis Day Marked at ACNBA

Hepatitis awareness was on display at the ACNBA downtown North Bay office July 27th. The Public Health Agency of Canada says over 240,000 Canadians are infected by hepatitis C and nearly a quarter of them don't realize it. This was one of the messages provided at ACNBA's World Hepatitis Day event.

Nipissing MPP, Monique Smith, and North Bay Mayor Al McDonald were on hand to support the day's purpose. Mayor McDonald read a city proclamation declaring July 27th World Hepatitis Day in North Bay.

Visitors were provided with information kits, refreshments and an opportunity to show off their artistic talents, painting messages on a World Hepatitis Day themed canvas.

Hepatitis C is often a co-infection for people living with HIV/AIDS.

The new look Look Sharp No Sharps (LSNS) syringe collection bag emblazoned with the LSNS logo and the program's sponsorship logos (Nipissing Rotary Club and North Bay City Police Service). The bag provides heightened identification for LSNS and its sponsors.

July 5, 2011
Look Sharp No Sharps Program Growing

There's nothing like demand for your services to tell you that you have a needed and appreciated program. And that's been the story for the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area's, 'Look Sharp, No Sharps' (LSNS) service. The harm reduction initiative picks up and safely disposes of discarded needles found around the city.

Introduced by the agency in 2008, it was a response to a much talked about need for services to deal with the problem. LSNS Coordinator, Dennis Chippa, says the number of calls to the agency's needle hotline continue to climb.  

"Last year, we were called out almost a hundred times for Look Sharp No Sharps. We brought in about 2,900 used syringes, from all over the city, including some houses, apartments, even hotel rooms."

LSNS has garnered some much appreciated and invaluable support from the Nipissing Rotary Club and the North Bay Police Service. Chippa says LSNS has more than proven its value to police.

"The benefits as far as safety go are obvious. But on the other hand, each call takes an average of 20 minutes or more, from the call, to the pickup, to the return. That�s not a very effective use of police resources, should city police be the ones doing the program, rather than us. Saving police resources actually makes it easier for them to do the job they�re trained for, which is keeping the city safer."

The AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area has stepped up the promotional aspects of the program by utilizing needle retrieval bags featuring the police, Rotary Club and LSNS program's logos. Chippa feels the LSNS bags increase the program's visibility and profile.

"When we get to a call, certainly, the logos on the bags, including both the police and the Rotary Club of Nipissing�s logo, provide maybe a bit more legitimacy to the program, it�s not just an AIDS Committee thing, it�s a community safety thing, a community betterment thing."

To have a found needle picked up call 705-497-3560 or the LSNS hotline at  705-499-6827.
KST

Lads N' Lashes star - Miss Conception - brought something a little different to the February 25th show performing as Sarabi from The Lion King who was portrayed by Gina Breedlove in the Broadway play. She also performed as Lady Gaga and Celine Dion. She was joined by cast members Robin Loren and Georgie Girl who brought such names as Pink, Cher, Madonna, Dolly Parton and others alive on stage to the delight of the sell-out crowd.

March 9, 2011
Lads N' Lashes A Huge Hit!

A new venue, big production values and strong marketing all translated into a sold out Lads N' Lashes show for the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area (ACNBA) February 25th.  The Toronto-based drag troupe featuring Robin Loren, Georgie Girl and Miss Conception performed to a packed house at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 23 in North Bay.

Robin Loren, best known for her Cher, Celine Dion and Pink homages, said 2011 marked her 10th year of  performing the show in the Gateway City for ACNBA.

"We do a lot, a lot of shows throughout the year and I'm not lying when I say this is right at the top of our favourite shows to do. We look forward to this one all the time," Loren smiled at the outset of the performance.

The raucous and often ribald event had the crowd laughing and clapping along during some of the tributes to major female singing artists.

The legion was a switch of location for the show from previous years. After the show's final number, audience members commented on how much they enjoyed the performance and the new venue.

ACNBA Support Services Coordinator, Steve Lamb, was very pleased with how the evening turned out and says it looks like the legion will be the site for next year's show. It's too early yet to determine how well the popular fundraiser did, but it appears it could possibly be the biggest night ever for Lads N' Lashes in North Bay.
KST

January 27, 2011
Lads N' Lashes at New Venue

Lads N' Lashes performer - Robin Loren - portrays Cher during last year's popular fundraiser. Loren will be under the spotlight once again along with LNL troupe members, Miss Conception and Georgie Girl February 25, 2011. This year will see the show held at the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 23 at 150 First Avenue.

After 10 years of performances at one of North Bay's landmark locales, the wildly popular ACNBA fundraiser, Lads N' Lashes is moving to a larger venue. The big show will hit the boards at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 23 at 150 First Avenue West.

Lads N' Lashes arrives in North Bay, February 25th, 2011. Doors open at 8:00 pm with the show starting at 9:00 pm. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Tickets are available by calling 705-497-3560.
KST

November 24, 2010
AIDS Awareness Week Launch

North Bay Mayor, Vic Fedeli,(L) ACNBA Board President, Jason McLennan (C) and ACNBA HIV/AIDS Education Coordinator, Dennis Chippa help kick off AIDS Awareness Week with a launch held at the ACNBA board room November 24, 2010.

AIDS Awareness Week (AAW) was officially launched at ACNBA's Main St. office November 24th, framed by two large sections of the Canadian AIDS Memorial Quilt which draped two walls of the room.

 ACNBA HIV/AIDS Education Coordinator, Dennis Chippa emceed the gathering, explaining the significance of the event and outlining the agency's accomplishments over the year. The education and awareness presentation successes throughout ACNBA's catchment area, including its "Look Sharp, No Sharps" discarded needle response program were highlighted.

Special guest, North Bay Mayor, Vic Fedeli read the AAW's official proclamation. He expressed his amazement at its list of HIV/AIDS infection statistics.

"You know, I've read this proclamation for seven years. I tell you those numbers are staggering. When you read 74,000 Canadians are living with HIV and 17,000 are quite likely unaware, that's just too much to absorb."

ACNBA Board President, Jason McLennon, ACNBA Support Services Coordinator, Steve Lamb, ex-officio board member, Kirk Cederwahl and Dennis Chippa conducted the candle lighting ceremony, offering hope for a cure and remembering those who have died from HIV/AIDS related illness.

AAW continues until Wednesday December 1, 2010, World AIDS Day. The event will be marked by the "Ceremony of Lights" at the Nipissing University/Canadore College library and the Day Without Art, (a tribute to those members of the national and international arts community who have died from HIV/AIDS related illness) being recognized by art galleries and tattoo studios around North Bay.
KST

October 15, 2010
Pitchin' In For ACNBA's New Kitchen

Team Depot co-captains, Chris Robinson (L) and Nina Zaychuk prepare one of the cupboards for installation in ACNBA's renovated kitchen. The project received funding assistance through Home Depot's community grant program.

A small army of orange-shirted Home Depot employees spent a good part of the day helping put the finishing touches on ACNBA's renovated kitchen October 13th. The "Team Depot" crew, led by co-captain, Chris Robinson, installed new cupboards and counters.
 
The group, made up of second co-captain Nina Zaychuk, Stephen Bailey, Charlie Bemrose, Bill McLellan, and Meghan O'Reilly - each with their own renovations skill set - made short work of the upgrade project.

Robinson says everyone on "Team Depot" volunteers their time and abilities to help organizations with similar tasks as part of Home Depot's community services program.
"We have a few other projects on the go. We're going to help build a fence for Pet Rescue in Powassan next week," says Robinson.

ACNBA's Women's HIV Program Coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin, got Home Depot on board through a grant the company offers non-profit groups for renovation projects.
"We got a thousand dollars from them which went to the new cupboards and other materials. They offered their "Team Depot" crew to help us put it all in," smiles Jodouin.

The refurbished kitchen, complete with new fridge and stove, will be utilized by ACNBA clients preparing meals for themselves as part of the agency's tender assistance program. 
KST
 

September 13, 2010
A Great Showing for Scotiabank AIDS Walk for LIfe

Perfect weather and a great crowd ensured ACNBA's Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life held Saturday, September 11th was a big success. About 70 walkers took part in the event. A silent auction, barbeque, live music by Unisys and kids' face painting all contributed to making the Walk a fundraiser to remember. More pictures here.

What a day! What a turnout! Sunshine, warm temperatures and a large crowd of supportive people made Saturday's Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life the most successful yet. Volunteers working at the Walk's registration tent assisted two lines of people waiting to get their names and pledges processed.

Mayor Vic Fedeli and Nipissing MPP Monique Smith were on hand to officially kick off the event and pass along their best wishes for its success. Nipissing-Temiskaming MP Anthony Rota was at another function but sent his support.

The walk featured a silent auction of donated items from local businesses, organizations and individuals, including a wide range of artwork.  Kids played with balloons and got their faces painted. Corbeil band Unisys provided great live music throughout the day to an appreciative audience.

Just after 1:00 pm about 70 walkers made their way down Memorial Drive and back, taking in awareness signs along the way which carried messages about HIV/AIDS and ACNBA's work.

The walk wrapped up with a barbeque, prizes and the silent auction winners. The Walk's final figures for money raised have yet to be determined but will be announced shortly.
KST
 

August 23, 2010
Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life Showcased

L-R ACNBA Executive Director, Stacey Mayhall, HIV/AIDS Educator, Dennis Chippa, Office Administrator, Caitlin Don and volunteer Sami-Jo Titmuss were on hand for the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life promotional event at Northgate Shopping Centre August 22, 2010. ACNBA staff and volunteers got the word out about the event, collected pledges and donations and enjoyed many opportunities to speak with area residents about the fundraiser. More pictures here.

ACNBA staff and volunteers were at the Northgate Shopping Centre this past weekend showcasing the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life, generating interest in the event and collecting pledges and donations. This year's fundraiser is featuring a free BBQ, silent auction and a live band.

A lot of work and preparation is going into the event including a big marketing push, which is one of the reasons behind the weekend display at Northgate. A huge banner promoting the Walk can be seen in the windows leading to Walmart.

The event kicks off September 11, with registration starting at noon and the actual walk commencing at 1:00. Pledges, donations or registering walk teams can all be done by clicking here.
KST

July 26, 2010
ACNBA Staff Assists North Bay Food Bank

L-R Women's HIV/AIDS Coordinator Kathleen Jodouin, Office Administrator, Catlin Don, HIV/AIDS Education Coordinator, Dennis Chippa and Support Services Coordinator, Steve Lamb stand behind the collection of food items donated by ACNBA staff slated for the North Bay Food Bank.

It's said that charity starts at home. Staff at ACNBA took that saying to heart with its recent, in-house, mini food drive. About 125 pounds of food were donated by staff, volunteers and placement students. Individuals brought in cans, jars and boxes of non-perishable food over a three week period to give the North Bay Food Bank a little help with its ongoing need for food.

Food drive organizer, Kathleen Jodouin, says the effort is just an example of the teamwork and care that is always in evidence at ACNBA.

"Everyone jumped in on this, knowing that it will provide some nourishment and assistance for someone in need in the city. It's basically what we do here, helping others as best we can."
KST

June 18, 2010
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Day Sales Success!

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts start selling as soon as ACNBA sets up at North Bay City Hall June 17th. Support Services Coordinator, Steve Lamb (top left) Women's HIV Educator, Kathleen Jodouin and volunteer Billy Clarkson(lower right) take care of the first customer of the morning. Click here for more event pictures.

850 dozen Krispy Kreme Doughnuts came and went Thursday at North Bay City Hall, during ACNBA's fourth annual Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Day fundraiser. It was the most successful Krispy Kreme sales for ACNBA to date. Staff and volunteers made sure that all the pre-ordered doughnuts made their way to their buyers, including customers who qualified for delivery by purchasing five dozen or more. Even U-Need-A-Cab owner, John Strang and one of his drivers jumped in making deliveries.

Event coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin says people were still asking for doughnuts after the supply driven up from Krispy Kreme's outlet in Mississauga that morning by Communications Coordinator, Kirk Titmuss, were completely sold.

"We may be ordering 1,000 boxes for next year's fundraiser if the success of this year's event is any indication," Jodouin smiled.

ACNBA raised nearly $3,500 from the day's doughnut sales. All money raised will be put towards funding the agency's client services.
KST

May 20, 2010
World Hepatitis Day Marked at ACNBA

Preparations for World Hepatitis Day at ACNBA included the stuffing of envelopes with invitations and unique, liver-shaped cookies made especially for the day by North Bay's the Swiss Pastry Chef. Top left, Hep C Program Coordinator, Shannon Palmer along with HIV Education Coordinators, Dennis Chippa (middle) and Kathleen Jodouin (right) label and package. Bottom left, a close-up of a "liver" cookie, like the one (bottom right) being held by Jodouin.

About 20 Hepatitis C clients attended ACNBA's first World Hepatitis Day celebrations and survey launch held at the agency office May 19th. It was the perfect opportunity for Hepatitis C Program Coordinator, Shannon Palmer to distribute the printed version of the "Report on the Hepatitis C Education and Support Program Survey" conducted by Palmer and several volunteers in late 2009. (See February 5th story below)

Many of the Hep C clients at the event had participated in the survey, which was developed to determine their programming needs and requirements.  "Liver-friendly" refreshments were served as clients and ACNBA staff examined the survey and shared stories. Palmer says it was rewarding experience.

"It was nice to meet with the participants and share the results of the survey with them."

The theme for this year's World Hepatitis Day was "Am I Number 12?" a reference to the fact that 1 in 12 people world-wide are infected with chronic Hep B or C. In Canada about 250,000 people are chronically infected with Hep C alone. About a quarter of them are not aware of their infection. About 85% of intravenous drug users are co-infected with HIV and Hep C.
KST

April 28, 2010
A Taste for Life Serves Up Support

AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area's simian mascot, Herbert the HIV Sock Monkey, proved to be a popular dinner guest for A Taste for Life as he made the rounds of the restaurants sponsoring ACNBA's fundraising event. Here he poses for his close-up at 100 Georges, one of five North Bay eateries serving up delicious fare and contributing to the cause. More pictures on our Facebook wall.

Great food, a wonderful time and a worthy cause. A winning recipe for ACNBA's third annual A Taste for Life fund raiser.  About 200 people booked tables at 100 Georges, The White Owl Bistro, Cecil's Eatery & Beer Society, Joso's and Average Joe's, the five restaurants participating in the evening event. TFL coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin says everyone had a terrific time and helped generate thousands of dollars in donations.

"The response to this year's TFL was amazing! In diners' donations alone we raised just over $2,000. We're excited to see what the restaurants have for us."

The participating restaurants are donating 25% of the evening's receipts to ACNBA. All funds will go to the clients' services programs.

Jodouin says A Taste For Life could possibly expand next year with the addition of one or two more restaurants. She adds that A Taste for Life is a win-win deal for everyone.

"The participating restaurants tell us they really enjoy the extra business for what's usually a slow, spring Wednesday night and in turn they help us raise much needed funding for our clients," she explained. "Of course the patrons get a great meal, a fun night out in the middle of the week and the knowledge that they've helped out a worthy cause."

For more information on A Taste for Life go to www.atasteforlife.org
KST

March 26, 2010
Dragging for Dollars!

Lads N' Lashes performer Robin Loren channels rock star Pink during the drag troupe's annual fund raising performance for the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area at Cecil's Eatery and Beer Society.

Another raucous full house for the annual Lads N' Lashes drag show held March 26th at Cecil's Eatery and Beer Society. This year marked the Toronto based drag troupe's 11th appearance in North Bay raising funds for the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area.

Performers, Robin Loren, Georgie Girl and Miss Conception kept the crowd laughing with edgy jokes and colourful banter in between brilliant musical numbers as Cher, Pink, Barbara Streisand, Liza Minelli, Lady Gaga, Celine Dion among others.

Loren told the audience how much she enjoyed playing North Bay, calling it her favourite gig. She is the only Lads performer who has been at all 11 fundraising shows in the Gateway City.

Event organizer and ACNBA Support Services Coordinator, Steve Lamb says both the performers and the over 250 people in attendance had a great time, which resulted in a donation total of $5,200 to ACNBA's client services program.

The Lads N' Lashes show is slated to return March 2011.
KST
 

March 25, 2010
Placement Student Grateful For Time at ACNBA

Nipissing University Social Welfare students listen as Chris Wyness describes his experiences volunteering with the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area.

Nipissing University Social Welfare student Chris Wyness says his experience working with the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area is something he won't soon forget.

He made the comment while addressing Professor Wendy Young's  Social Welfare class March 25th about his time volunteering at ACNBA. About 20 students and representatives from other North Bay agencies were on hand for the afternoon of presentations.

Wyness spent many days with the agency over a period of about five months, observing the daily operations, learning the programs and working with the people behind the scenes.

He assisted in a number of agency events and programs including HIV Education presentations, health fairs and fund raisers. Chris says working with an AIDS agency is definitely something he's interested in pursuing in the future.
KST
 

March 9, 2010
ACNBA Celebrates International Women's Day
 

Top; ACNBA Women and HIV/AIDS Coordinator Kathleen Jodouin chats with Nipissing University's Women's Centre/Nipissing PRIDE executive member, Bonnie Talbot at the PRIDE booth. Four city agencies which assist women were on hand with displays and staff.

Bottom; North Bay Mayor Vic Fedeli examines some of the information available at the Amelia Rising booth as Volunteer Coordinator, Meghan Trussler (right) and volunteer Kellie Gillard (left) look on. He was one of the visitors to ACNBA's International Women's Day held at the agency office.

The AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area opened its doors to celebrate International Women's Day, March 8th, 2010. It marked the first time for what will become an annual event for ACNBA. Representatives from Amelia Rising, the Transition House, Women's Centre/Nipissing Pride and the Crisis Centre Community Transitional Housing Program were on hand to participate in the event.

"It was a valuable opportunity for all the agencies involved to share the good work they do for women in the North Bay area," said Women and HIV/AIDS Coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin.

She plans on expanding ACNBA's International Women's Day activities next year.
KST
 

February 5, 2010
High Hopes for Hepatitis C Survey Results
 

Hep C Nurse Clinician, Keri McGuire-Trahan, ACNBA Hep C Program Coordinator Shannon Elissa Palmer and Hep C Survey Program staffer Dave Claudio make up the survey team that spoke with 100 respondents to ACNBA's Hep C Education and Support Program Survey. The information gleaned will help shape future programming for persons infected with Hep C in the North Bay region.

ACNBA is crunching the data from the recently wrapped Hepatitis C Education and Support Program Survey.  Starting in October 2009, a survey team made up of Hepatitis C Program Coordinator, Shannon Elissa Palmer, staffers David Claudio and Stephani Hodgins spoke with 100 people including health care professionals, community agency service providers and people infected and affected by the Hep C virus (HCV) across ACNBA's wide catchment area.

Hep C surveyor David Claudio goes over survey findings with ACNBA's Hep C Program Coordinator Shannon Elissa Palmer.

Survey partners included Hepatitis C Nurse, Keri McGuire -Trehan, the Nipissing Detox and Substance Abuse Program, the North Bay Jail and the North Bay, Parry Sound District Health Unit.

Those infected with HCV were asked about their experiences with diagnosis, treatment and community support. Many were very pleased to be able to share their history with the survey team. As a result the survey catalogued a range of valuable, anecdotal information including people's experiences with co-infection, stigma and accessing support.

Hep C Program and survey coordinator, Shannon Elissa Palmer, says she found the survey a unique and at times moving experience.

"It was very rewarding to meet people face to face and hear about their experiences with their Hep C infection. By sharing what they're going through it gives them a voice and will hopefully lead to programming that will better meet their needs."

All this material will be used to create a final report which will produce recommendations for the creation of Hepatitis C programs and services which are expected to be delivered through ACNBA early in 2010.  For more information contact Shannon at 497-3560 ext. 201 or shannonelissapalmer@gmail.com
KST

January 29, 2010
Welcome Aboard for Women and HIV/AIDS Prevention Coordinator

ACNBA's new Women and HIV/AIDS Prevention Coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin, Nipissing MPP Monique Smith and  ACNBA Executive Director, Stacey Mayhall are on hand for the media launch of the Women and HIV/AIDS Prevention program.

Nipissing MPP, Monique Smith officially announced the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care's funding for the new women's HIV prevention program for the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area at the agency's office in downtown North Bay. ACNBA is one of 15 provincial AIDS agencies to receive the funding which is targeting the growing number of women in Ontario who are at risk for HIV infection.

MPP Smith and ACNBA Executive Director, Stacey Mayhall welcomed the program's new coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin to the post. Mayhall says women infected with HIV face unique challenges, are highly stigmatized and are reluctant to access the resources available to them as a result. The new program will focus on providing women-sensitive support and information.
KST

January 25, 2010
HIV/AIDS Services For Women

Women and HIV/AIDS Coordinator, Kathleen Jodouin is heading up the new Women and HIV Prevention program at ACNBA.

Client services at the AIDS Committee of North Bay & Area have expanded thanks to a new provincial initiative; Women and HIV Prevention. North Bay is one of 15 provincial AIDS agencies that have been selected to provide the service.

Kathleen Jodouin, ACNBA's new Women and HIV/AIDS Coordinator says the service will address the need to engage women who represent a large segment of new HIV cases in Ontario.

"Each year in Ontario, approximately 300 women test positive for HIV. About 15% of the total number of Ontarians diagnosed with HIV are female, and women now make up an increasingly large proportion of new HIV cases in Ontario: 23 to 25% in 2007 and 2008," explains Kathleen.

She'll be providing educational presentations on HIV/AIDS and related issues including harm reduction materials including male and female condoms to women throughout the North Bay catchment area which is bounded by Kirkland Lake, Mattawa, Huntsville and West Nipissing.

Kathleen can be contacted for more information at 497-3560 ext. 207 or at jodouink@gmail.com
KST

December 7, 2009
Red Ribbon Auction A Bid Winner
A big and enthusiastic turnout for ACNBA's annual Red Ribbon Auction held at the Elk's Lodge in North Bay, Saturday evening.  About 80 locals put their money down on the wide range of unique and valuable items offered up at the event, which provided a great opportunity to pad Christmas gift lists. Additional support came from mayor Vic Fedeli and wife Patty, MP Anthony Rota and MPP Monique Smith.

This year's theme was "Sign Me Up" a nod to the many items signed by their celebrity donors. Four bidding time slots kept the event moving and generated some good natured bidding battles.

It's estimated the 67 items generously donated to the Red Ribbon Auction raised well over $5,000 which will be used to fund ACNBA's client services programs, assisting those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.
KST