Small Town Big Heart Marshall Fire Fundraiser - what's the latest?

The Small Town Big Heart Marshall Fire Fund is into its last group of events in an effort to get to the $100,000 finish line.

Headed by Niwot Business Association President Deb Fowler, the effort began shortly after the first of the year to show victims of the fire that other communities cared.

"I couldn't be more delighted," Fowler said. "The support from the local businesses, some Niwot clubs and residents joining in, has been overwhelming and the next few events are going to be so much fun."

The fund is currently at $77,056.54 with a check expected from the July 4th Downhill run. Fowler said it was a huge success, and that it "will likely get us close to the $80,000 mark."

To date events have been hosted by Niwot Tavern, Cimmini's, Farow, Niwot Wheel Works and the Niwot Inn. Local groups including WINC (Women's International Niwot Club) and The Left Hand Giving Circle have given generously to the fund, Fowler said.

"When you add in all the businesses that have donated silent auction items or sponsored events, the thank you-list gets very long. It is testament to what a truly special community we live and work in, " Fowler said.

The next big fundraiser is Bingo and Brisket night Aug. 14 at the Garden Gate Cafe in Cottonwood Square, which is normally closed evenings. "Owner Steve Gaibler will open his doors for an evening of fun family bingo and serve a yummy menu of brisket, barbeque chicken, with sides of corn on the cob, barbeque beans, and coleslaw, followed by Banana cream pudding dessert," Fowler said. "There will be water, ice tea and lemonade and people can bring their own if they have a preferred beverage."

To raise a few more dollars, there will be a "heads and tails" game and a silent auction. Prizes will have a nostalgic theme such as a covered hayride, a cheesemaking class, and a flower arranging class.

The event is sponsored by the Garden Gate Cafe, Few of a Kind Vintage + Mercantile, and Deb Fowler DRF Real Estate, Colorado Landmark.

For September two big fundraisers are already scheduled. Saturday, Sept. 3 will be Lobsterfest at Whistle Stop Park, generously sponsored by many local businesses, with welcome cocktails, live music and a silent auction as well as ticket options for kids. All proceeds raised will go to the NBA"s Marshall Fire Fund.

Another fundraiser is set for Wednesday, Sept. 7 at 1914 House on 2nd Avenue in downtown Niwot. For this special evening there will be a table surcharge to benefit the Marshall Fire Fund. The evening will include live music, a welcome cocktail sponsored by Adam Robinson and Seven Wealth, as well as a silent auction. The silent auction will focus mainly on vacations and in-house chefs. 1914 House has also agreed to generously donate a portion of their sales. To book a reservation, call 1914 House at 303 834-9751.

Tickets for Bingo and Brisket, and Lobsterfest can be purchased on Eventbrite or via the QR links in the ads featured in this edition of the Courier.

Discussions are underway to have fundraisers at La Musette and Blessings Day Spa in addition to a funding application to the Rotary Club of Niwot. "With the combination of these latest events, I am quietly confident we'll reach the $100,000 goal," Fowler said. For more information, or to donate goods or services, Fowler can be reached at 720-278-1217.