Jessica Maidlow and her professional Gotta Dance partner Alex Kaskie took the trophy at the CVIC Hall in Minden on April 11.
Not only was April 11 the day a sold-out crowd watched The Chateau at Gardnerville Sales Director Jessica Maidlow dance her way to victory, but it was also her 17th wedding anniversary.
The 2004 Douglas High graduate reported raising $21,939 for the Suicide Prevention Network through ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations — the highest total of any participant in this year’s Gotta Dance fundraiser.
The total raised by the event is still being finalized as contributions continue to come in.
Maidlow partnered with professional dancer Alex Kaskie, a hip-hop instructor and choreographer. Together, the duo earned perfect 10s across the board.
“It was such an honor to be invited to participate in this year’s event,” said Maidlow. “The entire experience was unforgettable, and I was blown away by the incredible support from our community for SPN.”
Maidlow, who has lived in the area her entire life, shared that her only prior dance experience came from “dancing with friends in her kitchen.”
Chateau resident Nancy Arcuri also attended – though her allegiance on who to root for was split. Her grandson Michael Koerner, a local realtor, also competed.
“It was such a fun event, and I am so proud of all the celebrity dancers who participated,” she shared. “Especially Jessica and Michael.”
Gotta Dance invites 10 local “celebrity” participants to compete in front of the community and raise funds for suicide prevention efforts.
Each participant trains with a local professional dancer, many of whom donate their time through The Dance Workshop, a supporter of the event’s success.
“We are beyond proud of Jessica for stepping out of her comfort zone and representing The Chateau with such grace, humor, and heart,” said Chateau Executive Director Katie Nichols. “She danced not only for the cause but for the joy of our entire community.”