FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Nancy F. Rice

Director of Communications and Development

518.272.6012, Ext. 274

Most deserving Capital Region couple chosen at bridAl show; WILL wed on Valentine’s Day Weekend 2009

Event Benefits Youth at Risk in Community

April 29, 2008, Troy, NY – Franklin Plaza, Capital District Wedding Association and the Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) teamed up to present a special bridal show on Sunday, April 27. “The Fairest of Them All” – which had more than 75 participating vendors – raised funds to benefit the Commission on Economic Opportunity’s (CEO’s) alternative education programs for at-risk youth.

At the event, the winners of a wedding contest held by Franklin Plaza and radio station B95 sought to find the “most deserving couple” who would win a free wedding. The winning couple – Rachel Wright and Christopher Cate – was announced by Karen Gordon, CEO’s Executive Director, and Ric Mitchell of B95, and will win a free wedding, including a reception at Franklin Plaza, photographs by Michael Conway Photography, limousine service provided by All Occasions Limo and music by Cool Cat DJ.

“This show was both exciting and heartwarming,” stated Michael Cocca, President of Franklin Plaza. “We were thrilled to be a part of an undertaking that benefited such a deserving organization as The Commission on Economic Opportunity, and such a deserving young couple as Rachel and Chis. It truly was a ‘win, win’ situation, and we look forward to their wedding next February.

Wright and Cate have been together for over seven years. They are not only raising their own son, but have also been surrogate parents to Rachel’s two younger sisters and a niece. “At a very early age, they took on the responsibilities of parenthood under extremely difficult circumstances,” said Gordon. “Overnight, they had to become responsible young adults who lived self-sufficiently while providing a home for themselves and other family members who needed it desperately. Rachel also continued her education and will soon graduate from college.

They have sacrificed so much so that they could be there for others. Theirs is a remarkably inspiring story of how a young couple can survive and succeed in the face of adversity. They truly are “the most deserving couple,” and we are just delighted to help them finally realize their dream of a storybook wedding.”

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About CEO

The Commission on Economic Opportunity for the Greater Capital Region is located at 2331 Fifth Avenue in Troy. The mission of the Commission on Economic Opportunity, Inc. is to preserve and advance the self-sufficiency, well being, and growth of individuals, children and families through education, guidance and resources. CEO touches the lives of more than 10,000 individuals, empowering them to build self-sufficiency in all areas of their lives and to rise out of poverty. CEO is a Community Action Agency.

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