Main Event

Executive Chef at the International Event Center Chris Hodapp described the elaborate menu being served.

Stephanie Schmidt, along with her dad, Randy, both serve on the board of directors for the Rochester Center for Autism. Stephanie is a therapist at the center.

Laura and David Amick, representing the Austin Salvation Army, came to hear Noah Maier sing for guests at the popular fundraiser.

Sharon Nigon and Jan Strauss, looking over silent auction items, said they have a friend with an autistic daughter and felt it was a wonderful cause.

Todd Villeneuve and his daughters Audrey and Tessa are family friends with the Trahan family. Todd coaches sports teams and the girls have babysat for Reese Trahan.

Don Bray and Linda Grisvold dressed for the event. Bray, a Rochester Police Officer, said the Police Benevolent Fund benefits from the charity and helps fund the Project Lifesaver program helping police locate missing autistic children by use of a GPS locator.

Angela and 'Big Mark' Clark with Brad Trahan. Clark served as MC for the event Trahan started 10 years ago. "It's humbling to see what it's become," said Trahan, "All the businesses that have pitched in, we have some great educational moments here along with huge entertainment."

Kimberly Rink, a server at the Rochester International Event Center, is silhouetted against a projection on the wall during the Mending of the Minds Gala.

Sassy Forsman lit the way for guests arriving at the Rochester International Event Center as she performed fire spinning. Forsman was part of a group of the Minneapolis based Insphyre Performance.

Sassy Forsman lit the way for guests arriving at the Rochester International Event Center as she performed fire spinning. Forsman was part of a group of the Minneapolis based Insphyre Performance.

Luverne and Kristine Maier brought their autistic son, Noah, who would sing, See the World Through My Eyes by Scott James. The Maiers are from Sergeant MN.

Gene and Dorene Trahan said they're proud of the work their son, Brad, has done by starting the Center for Autism almost 10 years ago when his own son, Reese was diagnosed with the decease.

Sam's Club volunteers Ed Bishop, Dan Heimer and BB Balcha greeted guests as they arrived at the International Event Center.

Nola Wingren, of Pine Island, and Kim Schauer of Rochester peruse items available at the silent auction. Schauer's husband, Matthew, wrote the software that runs the auction.

Professional pianist and entertainer Andrew Walesch of Minneapolis was back for his second year playing at the event. Walesch's sister was a former board member and encouraged him to play the benefit.