“Close your eyes and open your senses as you embark upon a journey when all the lights go down as dinner begins.” These were instructions to guests as the fun and innovative “Dinner in the Dark” event unfolded. Sleep shades and visual impairment simulators were available to heighten the “in the dark” experience for those in attendace to “see” what it’s like to be blind or visually impaired.
The evening began with a reception and silent auction, where attendees were able to bid on items like a signed Peyton Manning jersey while snacking on an assortment of cheese and fruit. During the reception, conversations and laughter echoed throughout the hall. Many “awws” were heard, courtesy of the seeing eye dogs both on duty and in training who attended the event.
After the reception, the dinner hosted by former Denver Bronco Reggie Rivers began as people slipped on their eye masks to put themselves in the place of someone who is visually impaired. During the meal, singer, songwriter and board chair Karen Karsh and her band dazzled the crowd with their brilliant music.
After dinner and dessert were enjoyed, Reggie’s “Heads or Tails” game began. With a $20.00 bill or $20.00 check payable to ACBCO, lucky attendees who guessed heads or tails at a coin flip were able to win a Hall of Famer football signed by four former great Denver Broncos Players.
ACBCO uses blind, visually impaired and sighted individuals who work together to achieve their mission to serve all who are in need of their assistance throughout Colorado. All proceeds raised from the event support seniors in our community with vision loss, and help them to adapt and adjust so they can remain living independently and be active with their family, friends, and also within their community.
Kirsty McGhie, Anna Holcomb and Eliya Hannah pose.
Barbara Boyer and Reggie Rivers gather before the event.
People begin to arrive and check in at the 7th Annual Dinner in the Dark
Friends chat during the reception.
The two Reggie’s: Reggie Sanchez and Reggie Rivers
(L) Mark Daugherty, Leslie Austin and Paul Strongwater with Folley.
A guest checks on the silent auction bid
Monica Owens, John Beauprez and Frances Owens enjoy conversation together.
Eudoro Olivares and Paulette Foss talk about the upcoming events for the evening.
Mickey Schuett checking out the items up for grabs.
(L) Sarah Harmer, Bill Wriston and Caroline Wriston chat, and Rosemary wants to join in.
People gather to converse during the reception.
Becca and Jason Ellis enjoy the evening.
Donna and Ted Merriam enjoy the wine and company.
Attendees gather during the reception.
Megghan and Athena Stevens enjoy the evening.
A woman bids during the silent auction.
Folley is the center of attention during the reception.
Rosemary, a guide dog puppy takes a needed rest.
Rosemary is obedient in her training as a future guide dog.
Board Chair Karen Karsh and guide dog Folley folley enjoy the reception.
Board Chair Karen Karsh and Folley bond during the reception.
Just a few of the items up for auction.
Reggie Rivers begins the introductions during dinner.
Barbara Boyer explains what ACBCO is all about.
Barbara Boyer invites all attendees to enjoy their dinner, as well as to try the sleep masks.
Reggie Rivers kicks off dinner.
Karen Karsh and her band entertain guests during dinner.
Nancy Chase experiences what it’s like to be without sight as she enjoys coffee and desert.
Reggie Rivers laughs while explaining the rules for Heads or Tails.
Heads or Tails to get a signed football by Hall of Famers!