Stars and Stripes fundraiser shows patriotic pride

Although neither Janel Shinn nor Amanda Smith, co-founders of Cheers for Charity, had any bartending experience, the duo served up their best cocktails and smiles, June 25, during the Stars and Stripes fundraiser at Polo Grill and Bar. Cheers for Charity, a Ranch-based women's Giving Circle group that collects dollars for local charities, hosted the guest bartending event, during which Smith, Shinn and group member Margi Dawson entertained their crowd of more than 60 attendees, while also collecting tips to donate to a to-be-determined local charity. The group is still tallying the dollars raised, but if it collected $500 or more, the Manatee Community Fund will match the amount raised.