by Amy Sharp

When Lilia Cardosa (an owner of the Old Courthouse Inn) bounced into my restaurant with a silly grin on her face, I knew something was up. “Amy, I have a fantastically fun idea for a fundraiser that you should do!” As if running the Manzanita restaurant and being a mom wasn’t enough!

After checking out a few sites on similar fundraisers around the world, I was hooked. How many fundraisers do you know of that involve lingerie?

Many of us have been touched by cancer, either personally or through someone we love. I’m looking forward to spreading the b-word to local businesses who want to make a difference, not just to those who wear bras but also to those who like to see someone wearing only bras, by sponsoring Relay For Life, Team Providence. The Canadian Cancer Society provides leading financial support for cancer research and delivers community-based support programs and prevention information for all types of cancer through funds raised by the Relay for Life program.

Here’s the deal: We are sending out an open invitation for bras, bustiers, corsets, or any other lingerie to be decorated as unabashedly as possible by anyone who feels compelled to do so. These will be displayed and auctioned off, with the proceeds going to Relay for Life, Team Providence. The Opening Night Gala Event is scheduled for March 8th, which happens to be International Woman’s Day. The gala events will be an evening of cocktails, passed appetizers, and music from two young local female singers. Both events will be held throughout the Old Courthouse Inn, not just in the restaurant space.

The Silent Auction will climax on the Grand Finale Night, April 5th, and the art will go home with its new owners. The Bras for a Cause show will be available for viewing four weeks in the Manzanita dining room, from March 8th to April 5th (Wednesday through Saturday. 5 p.m. to closing, and Sundays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m). View the pieces of art online: www.manzanita.ca

Bids for the silent auction may be submitted during the four weeks either in person at Manzanita, via email (info@manzanita.ca) or by phone (604-483-2228).