The ALS Association Rhode Island Chapter held its 20th Annual “Evening of Hope” event on June 23 in the Grand Ballroom at the Crowne Plaza, raising more than $80,000 to help support the ALS medical services and programs in the state that the local chapter provides. East Bay resident, Natalie Swift, received the “Brian Dickinson Courage Award” and the “Spirit of Lou Gehrig Award” was presented to ABC6. Citizens Bank Executive Vice President, Barbara Cottam served as Honorary Chair of the event, which was attended by 375 people. “For the past 20 years Evening of Hope has allowed us to raise public awareness about ALS and funds to help support patients and families in Rhode Island battling this horrific disease,” said John Pagliarini, president of the ALS RI Chapter board of directors. “While our primary focus is on finding an ultimate cure for ALS, the support provided by our community through our annual Evening of Hope fundraiser helps ensure that no one has to face this devastating disease alone.” Pictured are (back row) ALSA Board President, John Pagliarini, ALSA Executive Director, Nancy Feroldi, Neil Swift, Executive VP, Citizens Bank, Barbara S. Cottam, Honorary Event Chair, (front row) Matthew Swift, Natalie Swift and Thomas Swift. (Constance Brown Photography)