Bachelor of Hope Auction proves popular again with the women of Thunder Bay

With the million-dollar mark in clear sight, 10 of the city’s sexiest, most eligible bachelors strutted their stuff Thursday night to raise money for Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation’s Exceptional Cancer Care program.

As an added bonus, the Paterson Foundation was doubling every dollar contributed at the annual Bachelor of Hope Auction, held at the Victoria Inn.

Curtis Trotz was one of the men up for grabs, and said he took part with family ties on his mind.

“I’ve had a lot of family members that have been affected by cancer and I just think the Exceptional Cancer Care program is such a great cause. That’s why I’m here.”

Of course, it didn’t hurt that the event had hundreds of women fighting for his attention.

“There’s an abundance of beautiful looking ladies here tonight, yes,” Trotz said.

And they were dressed to kill.

Nadine Sorokopud, who three years ago returned home to Thunder Bay after emigrating to Florida, said she was excited to take part in the event.

Like most people, she’s had loved ones afflicted with cancer and said any cause that tries to put an end to the disease is one worth fighting for.

“I have two grandparents who have passed away from this, and this is great to see ladies out here – and gentlemen – maybe the shy guy now being the adventurous one, who knows,” she said. “It’s coming out of my shell too, which is good, but also supporting a good cause, which is breast cancer research.”

Organizer and volunteer co-ordinator Laurie Clarke said the night has been a hit since it was first launched.

There’s no one particular reason, Clarke added.

“It’s an opportunity for the girls to get together. They get dressed up to the nines, they come with their friends and have a great dinner and a night of entertainment.”

The evening started with a dance routine that included a gyrating Coun. Frank Pullia among the 10 bachelors, each there to auction off a prize package to raise money for the cause.

The ensuing date is optional on both ends.

“This year we’ve switched it up a bit. We’ve got different packages with different values.”

Packages included everything from dinners and horseback rides to sailing and pampering.

“There’s something for everybody,” Clarke said.

The total amount raised this year will be announced later this month. Officials said they hoped to surpass a million dollar total this year since the event began.