Friends remember Ron Buonauro with ongoing support of the Y
The YMCA’s Annual Dinner and Live Auction at Cafe Buonaro’s, now in memory of restauratuer Ron Buonauro, was held April 17 hosted by Tina Marie Buonauro McConnaughey and Michelle Buonauro Hedl for 48 guests. Cafe Buonaro’s, located in Fifth Avenue Station, served several of its signature dishes, including its famous baked spaghetti, with Italian wines. In advance of the dinner, friends and families had donated auction items that were up for bid for them to raise funds for the Y.
The evening was a great success thanks to all of the winning bidders whose generosity and support helped raise more than $18,000 toward strengthening the lives of kids and families right here in Naperville, according to Jane Bowers.
Entertaining banter was provided by volunteer auctioneers Tom Miers and Bill Mitchell. When it was time for photos, Mitchell gestured he was wearing “auction ears” to hear every bid.
“At the Y, strengthening community is our cause” wrote organizers of the dinner, R.J. Bartels, Judy Ellertson, Miers and Mitchell. “Every day we work side by side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. We greatly appreciate your support.”
Proceeds will benefit the Fry Family YMCA and the Kroehler Family YMCA, always listed among the favorite charitable causes of Buonauro who died at age 67 after losing his battle with cancer on Oct. 14, 2008 .
To find the Y that’s right for you and your family in Naperville, visit www.kroehlerfamilyymca.org or www.fryfamilyymca.org.
P.S. Click on any photo to enlarge and use the arrow to advance the gallery.
