"Almost Ghost Town" Documentary Feature Film Fundraiser

Step into the golden age of the Dun Glen and become a part of bringing "Almost Ghost Town" to life!

At this exclusive fundraising event, you'll be among the first to witness the proof of concept for this compelling documentary feature film. Your ticket supports independent filmmaking while treating you to an unforgettable evening at Freefolk Brewery in Hico, WV—complete with period-appropriate revelry, poker, craft brews, and the chance to immerse yourself in the world of the Dun Glen.

We invite you to dress for a night of 1901-1930s debauchery: think flapper dresses, suspenders and fedoras, feathered headpieces, and the kind of daring attire that would have turned heads during the Dun Glen's most notorious evenings. Whether you channel a bootlegger, a jazz-age socialite, a cardsharp ready for high-stakes poker, or a dapper gentleman out for a night of speakeasy mischief, your presence and support will help us capture the music, laughter, and unforgettable spirit of an era when the Dun Glen was alive with poker games that ran until dawn.

Come ready to celebrate, connect with fellow film enthusiasts, and be part of cinema history in the making.

Info: Guests arrive to jazz-age music and period lighting that transports them to the Dun Glen era. At check-in, attendees receive period-style name tags and a complimentary welcome drink—either a signature "Dun Glen" cocktail or Freefolk craft beer. The themed photo booth invites guests to capture memories in their period attire. Silent auction items are displayed with bidding sheets for unique prizes including an executive producer credit. Raffle tickets are available for purchase. The poker table open at 6:15 PM with buy-ins at registration. Guests explore auction items, admire 1900-1930s costumes and build community spirit. The photo booth operates continuously with props like feathered boas, fedoras, and vintage cigarette holders. Light appetizers keep everyone comfortable as the evening begins.

Info: As lights dim and music fades, the associate producer welcomes everyone with heartfelt gratitude for supporting independent filmmaking and belief in preserving forgotten histories. A brief but compelling introduction to the Thurmond's fascinating history explains why this story deserves to be told. Special acknowledgment recognizes sponsors and VIP supporters whose early commitment made this evening possible. The welcome concludes with enthusiastic encouragement to participate in all activities—silent auction, raffle, and poker—reminding everyone that every dollar brings this film closer to reality.

Info: The room falls dark as attention turns to the screen. For fifteen to twenty minutes, guests are transported into the world of "Almost Ghost Town" through the proof of concept screening. Professional presentation on a large screen with high-quality audio creates an immersive cinematic experience. This is when supporting a documentary becomes tangible—guests see, hear, and feel the story their contributions will bring to life. The screening captivates and moves, leaving the audience eager to see the complete film.

Info: As lights come up, the filmmaking team lead an eight to ten minute Q&A session, inviting the audience to explore the film's vision, production, and creative choices. The team shares compelling anecdotes from research and the proof of concept shoot, building emotional investment and transforming passive viewers into active collaborators. Following the Q&A comes The Ask—a five-minute passionate pitch explaining why this film must be made and how funds will be used. The crowdfunding campaign is officially launched, with guests directed to sign up for early access. Direct donations are encouraged through QR codes and the donation station, with VIP rewards including producer credits and premiere invitations explained. The pitch creates urgency, positioning tonight as the beginning of an exciting journey for founding supporters.

Info: With the formal program complete, music rises and guests return to social activities. This forty-five-minute period offers open mingling with a poker game continuing in the background. Guests return to the photo booth and engage in conversations about the film while specialty cocktails flow. Behind the scenes, active fundraising continues as team members and volunteers circulate for one-on-one conversations. QR codes and a staffed donation station remain available for immediate contributions. Sign-up sheets capture contact information for crowdfunding early access and follow-up conversations with potential major donors. At 7:45 PM, a final call announces the silent auction's close, creating excitement as competitive bidders rush to place last offers. Winners are announced at 7:50 PM to applause.

Info: The host makes a few brief final announcements. Silent auction winners are announced and celebrated, followed by the raffle drawing for the grand prize—perhaps an executive producer credit. Heartfelt thanks are extended to sponsors, volunteers, and Freefolk Brewery. Guests are reminded about the crowdfunding campaign launch date and encouraged to share photos on social media using #AlmostGhostTown and #DunGlen. A final emotional note emphasizes this is just the beginning of the journey, and everyone present is now part of the film's origin story. Guests are invited to stay for additional socializing if they wish.

Info: For guests not ready for the evening to end, Freefolk Brewery remains open for an exciting after party. The highlight of the after party is a spirited dandy auction where skilled men volunteer their services for the good cause of bringing "Almost Ghost Town" to life. Attendees can bid on everything from handyman services to cooking lessons, yard work to tech support—whatever talents our volunteers bring to the table. The poker game continues as long as players wish. This informal period also offers opportunities for deeper conversations with the filmmaking team about the project, Thurmond, and the research behind it. Additional photo opportunities abound as guests capture final memories. The brewery continues serving drinks, allowing the festive atmosphere to carry on naturally.

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