The Buccaneer Educational Foundation, a non-profit with a mission to inspire academic rigor, fund new learning opportunities and prepare youth of Milford to become well-rounded, productive citizens, has planned a fun, unique event that will allow residents to support their cause. The Fall Fling, planned for November 8 from 5 to 9 PM, will take place at Chorman’s Hanger, located at 2057 Nine Foot Road in Greenwood.
“Our event committee chairs, Sara LeBright and Molly Chorman, really sold us on the concept that we should do something beyond the run-of-the-mill “rubber chicken” dinner and do something special that would truly stand out as a Milford-area event,” President and Co-Founder of the organization, Matt Bucher, said. “That conversation led to the idea of converting for one night only a unique venue, an actual aircraft hangar, to stage something original and interesting for those that care about Milford School District and the kids in our community.”
Bucher explained that a ticket to the event gets attendees an excellent dinner, free drink tickets, live entertainment and fellowship with some extraordinary people in a shared group of communities. Entertainment will be provided by The Jimmies, an 80s flashback band.
“With their electrifying performances and authentic sound, this band will transport you straight back to the era of big hair, neon colors and iconic music,” Bucher said. “From classic hits to Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty to rock anthems by Queen and Aerosmith, the Jimmies 80’s Flashback Band has it all. They are known for their talented musicians’ ad high-energy stage presence.”
The event will be catered by Surf & Turf with a prime rib carving station, premium hors d’vouers and an all-around highline selection of buffet-style foods. Big Oyster Brewery is donating all the beer for the event and Arena’s is donating spirits and liquor. There will also be a portable bar and bartender. Bucher feels that this event will further the mission of the Buccaneer Educational Foundation.
“We plan to accomplish our goals in a number of ways,” Bucher said. “Classroom size grants provide funding for projects that may be outside the budget of curriculum but nonetheless enrich education and give our students opportunities they may not otherwise have. This includes funding for S.T.E.M., arts and other programs, classroom resources and field trips.”
The foundation is already having an impact in the district. They have awarded classroom-sized grants to teachers who provide students with unique educational experiences as well as mini-awards to help students, especially those in need, to cover travel expenses to national academic competitions.
“I foresee if this endeavor flowers, the foundation may be able to venture into CTE grants for workforce education, or even scholarships,” Bucher said. “Our only limitation is the number, will, dedication and imagination of our volunteers.”
The Board of Directors for the foundation include Norman “Jay” Jones, Vice-President; Garret Grier, Treasurer; Katie Barczewski, Secretary; Ashlee Connell; Molly Chorman; Mayor Todd Culotta; Jordan Deeney; Sara Hale; Ethan Lang; and Sara Lebright. School District Staff Trish Gerken and Mike Sharp serve on the Advisory Council.
Donations and sponsorships are available for the event, and they are also looking for volunteers. To support the Buccaneer Educational Foundation, call Bucher at 302-462-1962 or visit their Facebook page. A website is currently under construction but has details on the foundation as well.
“It is our hope that the Fall Fling will become the premier annual fall highline charity event for this area,” Bucher said. “Having said that, we are bandying about ideas for a 5k and a golf tourney down the road.
