Community News — The Tribune Chronicle
BROOKFIELD –The 29th annual Strimbu BBQ is planned for May 2 at the Yankee Lake Ballroom as part of a fundraising effort for the Strimbu Memorial Fund. The event is sponsored by First National Bank.
Board President Jim Grasso said since its inception in 1990, the Strimbu Memorial Fund has provided $3.3 million to support academic scholarships, local economic development groups, nonprofits and other charitable organizations.
Grasso said during the past year, the Strimbu Memorial Fund has distributed $147,250 in grants to area organizations and individuals. In addition, the fund has awarded $36,000 in scholarships to exemplary seniors from area high schools who exhibit the qualities of leadership and self-reliance.
“The Strimbu Memorial Fund was created to perpetuate the work of the late Nick Strimbu Jr., who had a passion for leading individuals and economic development agencies in order to attract, assist and retain the industrial base of the valley. In addition, when the Strimbu Memorial Fund awards scholarships to area students, we are investing in the life of a person — and that is worth millions,” Grasso said.
This year, the fund will award leadership college scholarships at the annual event in the amount of $2,000 each to seniors in 12 local school districts, with an additional student winning a $10,000 college scholarship as the overall leader.
This year entertainment will feature country-rock star Chris Higbee.
In addition, the night will feature both silent and live auctions, with many unique items.
Tickets are $90 and available online at www.strimbumemorialfund.org, from any board member or by calling Pam at 330-448-4046, Ext. 134.