Palin Appearance at Military Fundraiser Canceled After 'Negative Feedback'

A foundation hosting a charity gala for military families canceled its plans to feature former Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin at the event after "an onslaught of negative feedback" received by the organization.

The Colorado-based Sharon K Pacheco Foundation, which also support at-risk youth, announced Friday that Palin would be a host at its 2011 Patriots and Warriors Charity Gala. The next day, the foundation announced it canceled Palin's appearance. 

"Due to an onslaught of personal attacks against Governor Palin and others associated with her appearance, it is with deep sadness and disappointment that, in the best interest of all, we cancel the event for safety concerns," the foundation announced on its website. The site still featured a picture of Palin next to the announcement she had been canceled.

Noting "the call for civility in America," following the Jan. 8 Tucson shooting, the group said it "deeply respects" Palin and "appreciates her willingness" to attend, but out of "concern for her safety and the safety of others" changed the event date and speaker.

While nothing on Palin's Facebook page suggested she was planning an appearance at the SPK Foundation gala, the group began selling tickets to its May 2 fundraiser in January for $185 per person.

Just two weeks later, it offered $15 discounts, and on Wednesday slashed ticket prices in half, according to the Denver Post, which first reported the announcement.

The Denver Post added that tax records put the organization's revenues at $1,000 in 2008 and total assets at $2,204 in 2009.

In the announcement, founder Leo Pacheco said that it's important to protect the emotional safety of military members and their families who may be hurt by repercussions accompanying Palin's attendance.

"Unfortunately, some have overshadowed the purpose of this event by concentrating on their personal hatred of Sarah Palin, which is truly sad," he said.