Dancing with Freeborn County Stars raises more than $27,000
Published 9:10 am Wednesday, March 24, 2010
The fourth annual Dancing with the Freeborn County Stars program was held on Saturday, March 20, raising more than $27,000 for the local chapter of the American Red Cross.
Eight couples danced at two performances, competing for several awards.
Winners were announced at the evening performance.
 First place: Jennifer Levisen and Dana Nelson dancing the swing.
Second place: Martin Bernau and Sally Walker dancing the waltz.
Third place: Kim Nelson and George Rothmeier dancing the rumba.
The Audience Choice Award from both shows went to Kim Nelson and George Rothmeier.
The Fundraising Award went to Ebenezer Howe III and Angie Stadheim.
The dancers were coached by Roberta Grahn, owner of Dance Yourself Silly Dance Studio and Joyce Matthies, the owner of Joyce Matthies Dance Centre.
The judges were Alison Ciota, Rory Mattson and Heidi Skophammer.
This annual bash, which is based on the popular ABC series, is a fundraiser for the local Red Cross chapter. Local personalities were paired with experienced dancers and winners were decided based on judges’ scores and votes from the audience. Attendees voted for their favorite couple by donating money while enjoying refreshments during intermission.
Money raised stays in Freeborn County and funds local Red Cross programs. The Red Cross provides immediate needs for those impacted by disasters, including house fires and weather-related problems.
The local chapter provides training and education for first aid, CPR, babysitting, preparedness, pandemic and flu-related topics. The Red Cross is also an important link between people serving in the Armed Forces and their family members at home.