The Longhorn Bar and Grill in Deepwater will host a Halloween fancy dress fundraiser on Friday, 30 October, to boost a GoFundMe appeal for Torrington couple Keith and Dianne Blessing. The couple were victims of a home invasion in Torrington on June 4.
The page, called Help Keith & Dianne Feel Safe at Home, was started by their neighbour Enzo Di Prinzio, who runs Enzo’s Concreting Service. It had raised $1300 at the time of writing.
Every dollar goes towards security fencing for the couple’s property. Mr Di Prinzio is doing the labour for free, and DnG Earthworks has also volunteered.
Longhorn co-owner Lynn Osborne said the money would pay for fencing materials and a security system.
“I know it’s a little bit like closing the stable door after the horse is bolted. But they’re traumatised, and we’re going to beef up their security,” said Ms Osborne.
Mr Di Prinzio, a customer at the pub, told staff about the appeal. Longhorn co-owner Andrew Osborne, Ms Osborne’s husband, suggested a benefit night.
“When someone’s in trouble in a small town, we pitch in,” said Mr Osborne.
The night starts at 6 pm at the 1865 Heritage Longhorn Bar and Grill, 102 Tenterfield Street. Mr and Ms Blessing will be there. It is held the evening before Halloween because some staff have family commitments on the night itself. Fancy dress is encouraged.
“To start with, they were quite humbled and embarrassed,” said Ms Osborne.
The pub is catering for about 40 guests with a special menu, and about 20 tickets are left. Bookings can be made on 0408 023 568 or at hello@longhornbardeepwater.com.
A raffle will also help. The prize is a 0.75 carat New England sapphire, with tickets at $5 each or $10 for three. Ms Osborne said it had raised just over $300. Lion has donated a keg of XXXX Gold, and money from sales on the night will go to the couple.
Wristbands and hats with the community slogan will be on sale, with Mr Di Prinzio covering half the cost.
“Don’t stand by, they stand together,” said Mr Osborne.
People who cannot attend can donate to or share the GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/e35790d45.
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