Rockin’ to the ’80s Zumba fitness fundraiser Friday

LAPEER — Everyone should be gearing up in their best outfits from the 1980s tomorrow night. The American Legion Post 16 in Lapeer is hosting the second annual Zumbathon event on Friday (Feb. 17) from 7-11 p.m. The Zumba fitness fundraiser will be a benefit for the Be the Match foundation and is an ‘80s theme party.

The fundraiser, which will have a 1980s theme, is being called the “Totally Awesome ‘80s Zumbathon” and is being held in honor of Sydney Gavan, a three-year leukemia survivor and a third grade student at Mayfield Elementary School. Gavan was the recipient of a bone marrow transplant, which helped her win the battle over cancer she faced three years ago. The fundraiser is planned to coincide with her diagnosis date in February of 2009.

The 90-minute Zumba fitness workout at the American Legion will be led by Elaine Schneider and several other Zumba fitness instructors. Guests are invited to attend the fundraiser dressed in ‘80s-style clothing, including legwarmers, leotards and banana clips, to have fun at the second annual benefit for Be the Match.

Be the Match is a national organization that works to raise both funds and awareness for bone marrow transplants and to add potential marrow donors to the Be the Match Registry.

The Zumbathon event last year saw a large attendance and raised more than $4,000. Organizers said they are expecting an even larger turnout this year.

There will also be several raffles, games, and prizes along with food and a cash bar. Raffle tickets will be given for free to anyone who attends in ‘80s attire. Tickets to the fundraiser cost $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

For more information about Be the Match, go online to www.marrow.org. For details on the second annual Zumbathon on Feb. 17, go online to the “Totally Awesome 80’s Party” Facebook group or send an e-mail to liketotaly80@gmail.com.

— Jacob Hunsanger