Fremd Music Assoc. holds design showcase

The temperature outside was downright frigid, but inside Kolze Auditorium, the marvelous designs presented by the featured florists during the Fremd Music Association's 31st Annual Floral Design Showcase, "Rhapsody in Bloom" provided a needed glimpse of spring and a respite from the cold.

Designers from Busse's Flowers & Gifts, Barrington Flower Shop, Kinsch Village Florist & Greenhouse, Payton Floral Company and Sylvia's Flowers wowed the crowd with their amazing creativity and skills.

Emcee Joyce Grattoni's knowledge was evident in her superb commentary of the pieces created and her humor entertained the audience as well!

Over 540 guests filled the auditorium to enjoy the arrangements created by the florists and the musical selections prepared by the talented instrumentalists and vocalists.

Each of the 40 arrangements made by the designers brought delight to the eyes. Sounds of clapping and exclaims of excitement were heard in the auditorium as each arrangement was raffled off.

Forty lucky guests took those arrangements home at the end of the night. In addition, 10 members of the audience won $25 gift certificates to the local florists.

The music selected by student music groups provided something for everyone. The evening's musicians included a Jazz Combo, Grace Notes flute choir, The Four Norsemen a cappella choir, a flute duet, Audial Sunshine a cappella group and a marimba player.

These musicians really added a boost to the evening and provided a wonderful reminder of the focus for the fundraiser - supporting the phenomenal music program at Fremd High School.

Co-chairs Lori Quinn and Pam Loden were pleased that the funds raised and audience attendance surpassed expectations.