DREAMS COME TRUE — The Dream Factory celebrated with a fantasy night for 650 patrons Friday at the Winnipeg Convention Centre. Pulling out all the stops, the Events By Emma gang transformed the room with purple light, clouds above the stage and a hot air balloon with a basket floating under it. "The room had a dreamy, in-the-stars feeling," said executive director Grace Thompson. The silent auction was divided into three parts — Hope, Joy and Wonder. For the live auction, popular auctioneer Gregg Maidment of ADESA Winnipeg sold off 47 packages, 12 of them specific dreams for certain kids, all within 90 minutes.

The Dream Factory executive director Grace Thompson gives Jim Gauthier a hug after he donated $50,000.

Jim Gauthier thrilled the Dream Factory people when he donated $50,000 to the cause. Thompson gave him a big hug up at the podium. "We're still counting, but I can guarantee it will be the best ever — most people attending and most money raised!"