Big Annie Gala a Success!
CALUMET, Michigan (July 3, 2024) – Team Annie is pleased to announce that the “Big Annie” Fundraising Gala was a huge success. This fantastic sellout event took place the evening of June 22nd at the historic Calumet Theatre. Team Annie is raising funds to erect a statue of Anna Klobuchar Clemenc in the historic district of Calumet, Michigan. This statue would honor her legacy and involvement in the Copper Country Strike of 1913-1914.
Guests, dressed up in 1913-era attire, were treated to a delicious ethnic dinner buffet catered by several local restaurants. The evening commenced with a social hour where guests enjoyed signature cocktails made with Iron Fish Distillery spirits from the cash bar. Shute’s 1890 Saloon donated beautiful etched glassware, which was available for purchase throughout the night. The glassware featured “Big Annie’s” signature that was acquired from a time when she was jailed for protesting in the strike. Leftover glassware from the event will be available for purchase at future fundraising events.
Gala dinner guests enjoyed an ethnic dinner buffet catered by several local restaurants.
The gala featured a wonderful silent auction with exclusive items donated by local community members and businesses. Tables and room decor were exquisite, featuring antique silver furnishings and bouquets of wildflowers, designed by Shelly Hahh from Vintage Vignettes. After dinner, guest speaker Steve Lehto spoke of Annie’s legacy, leaving the audience in awe. Eighteen of Annie’s relatives were in attendance to enjoy the event and learn more about “Big Annie’s” contributions to the United State’s labor movement and Copper Country Strike.
Steve Lehto, author of “Death’s Door” spoke about Annie’s legacy during the event.
The night concluded with excellent music on the Calumet Theatre stage. Penny Menze sang her original “Annie” song and Keweenaw Brewgrass followed with a stunning performance! Gala attendees were invited to meet the musicians, Annie’s family, and Steve Lehto in the ballroom following the show.
Team Annie would like to thank all of the sponsors, donors, and attendees that made this gala such a successful fundraising event. Keep up with Team Annie by following our Facebook page, and be sure to stay tuned for upcoming events.
The “Big Annie” Statue Fund is a special project fund of the Keweenaw Community Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) public charity. Donations to the fund can be made on the Keweenaw Community Foundation website.
Marching on!
Media Contact: Kayleigh White
Big Annie Board Member
krwhite1@mtu.edu