VERO BEACH — Mulligan’s Beach House continues to heat things up with its weekly Summer Fun Events every Thursday evening. Throughout the year, children always eat free on Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m., but last year owner George Heart added a new summertime twist, donating 15% of sales to a local charity each week.
Squeals of laughter from happy children are guaranteed as kids are entertained with themes that have included a Superhero Party to benefit local Fire and Police Departments, Under the Sea with SpongeBob to benefit the Environmental Learning Center, a Fourth of July Party benefiting the Disabled Veterans’ Foundation, a Pirates and Princess Party to benefit Youth Guidance, a Hocus Pocus Magic Party to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Christmas in July, complete with a pile of real snow, to benefit Toys for Tots. The last Thursday in July featured a Big Top Circus Party to benefit the Hibiscus Children’s Center, and a number of HCC staff and supporters were on hand to enjoy the festivities and promote their organization.
As we listened to the melodious Jimmy Buffet style sounds of guitarist MJ Wicker, Live from Paradise, HCC board member Donna Clements said she was surprised but pleased to hear him playing at the event.
“Coincidentally, MJ is also a volunteer at Hibiscus Children’s Center,” said Clements. “He does motivational speaking and entertains at the shelter; he’s an outstanding singer.”
HCC children weren’t at the event though, as they were off on an adventure of their own.
“37 kids went to Sea World today,” said HCC Foundation board member Sandy Divine. “The trip was 100 percent paid for by volunteers and donors.”
When asked why he became involved with the organization, Clay Price, past chair of the HCC Board of Governors said, “It’s the kids. When you go to the Village and see the children, they all have such a great attitude. When you see their smiles, despite where they’ve been and what they’ve gone through, how can you not be involved?”
Angie Schepers, PR Marketing Coordinator for Mulligans in Vero Beach said that Mulligan’s also gives away a different prize each week, such as bikes, tickets to Disney, Sea World, the Brevard Zoo, gift cards, etc.
“We always have a bounce house unless we need the space for things like the snow or a dunk tank. We try to keep themes and prizes different to keep it fun,” said Schepers.
“We get lots of regulars coming each week and the tourists also like it because it gives them something to do. People can come out for a nice evening, enjoy music and entertainment, have their kids eat free and it always goes to a good cause; that’s what’s important.”
This summer, the Thursday night entertainment has been extended outside as well, with Ocean Grill contributing to the cost. The music of Jason and Dave greets visitors as they drive up to the ocean at the newly renovated Sexton Plaza between the two restaurants, and vendors sell a variety of beach-style wares.
On August 5, Mulligan’s will have a Back to School Party where kids can try to douse their favorite teachers and principals in a dunk tank. Participating schools will split the proceeds.
August 12 is a Luau Party to benefit Big Brothers, Big Sisters, August 19 is their Dog Gone Fun Party to benefit the Humane Society and the final Party is Football & Cheer Fun to benefit the Vero Beach Recreation Department.
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