MUSKEGON, Mich. — On Friday our morning anchor Emily Scarlett and meteorologist Samantha Jacques will be hitting the stage for the 16th annual Dancing with the Local Stars competition and are expected to raise thousands of dollars for local food pantries. Over the last 15 shows, Dancing with the Local Stars has raised over $1.8 million and that number will continue to grow this year.
They have been practicing for months and now the competition is nearly here. Eleven groups made up of community stars and local pros will be competing on stage for the Friday night show, Saturday matinee show, and Saturday evening show all for an incredible cause.
Each team has been practicing once to twice a week since the end of November and also meeting for opening number practice during that time. But it's not about the dancing, it's about the fundraising that dancing is bringing in. Each team competes to raise the most money for local food pantries.
"I had a dream of maybe getting 10-thousand dollars our first year and last year we got $258 thousand, so I think we are doing something right," stated co-chair Mary Kendall.
Going on to say that there's a big need for local food pantries in both Muskegon and Oceana Counties and that's where their drive stems from.
"I think a lot of the pantries are very low at this time. Usually, around Christmas time everyone donates, but come May, June, and July they're empty and that's where we step in and help out," said Mary.
Francine Calandro, one of the professional dancers, is going on her 16th year of competing in Dancing with the Local Stars.
"I just love paying it forward. I was there once, and when they called me asked me to dance, and told me about the food pantry, I said absolutely. I just keep on coming back because I just love it and the support and the community." explains Francine.
This year's theme is Boots and Bling, bringing a little glam to the community, for an amazing cause.
If you are interested in attending a show there are still tickets available for the Friday night show and the Saturday matinee show. You can head to dancemuskegon.com to purchase tickets or donate. If you can't compete, you can donate to any team or directly to Samantha Jacques and Emily Scarletts Team 9, the Nassubian Princesses.
We hope to see you at the show.
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