On Sunday, September 18th, Wells Bring Hope’s founder and president Barbara Goldberg welcomed over 100 guests to the home of Carol and Howie Cohen for the organization’s 14th Annual Fundraiser. The theme was “It’s Calypso Time!” and featured the steel drums of Alan Lightner and a décor that set a mood that was upbeat and FUN! With perfect weather, guests turned out in festive garb, sporting lots of color to match the tropical décor.
Guests nibbled on delicious Caribbean cuisine from Edible 360: coconut shrimp, poke style ahi on a wanton crisp, zucchini flowers and mozzarella quesadilla and more. The featured drinks: the rum-laced Pirate’s Poison and a refreshing vodka lemonade called the Calypso Cooler. Next to the bar was the aguas frescas station with tantalizing flavors like hibiscus and passionfruit. Guests also sipped wine donated by Le Vigne Winery.
While everyone mixed and mingled, our very capable volunteers enticed guests to participate in the silent auction, tempting them with trips to Sedona, San Francisco, and Scottsdale, and dining at the Polo Lounge, Musso & Frank, Cassia and more.
With many newcomers in attendance, Founder and President, Barbara Goldberg told guests about our cause and what makes it so special. Our honoree this year was critically acclaimed actor of stage and screen, Robert Gossett, who has supported WBH almost since its beginning.
During the live auction, guests got the chance to bid on some exciting travel packages including trips to Belize, St. Croix, a stay at the Carlyle in New York, Punta Mita, as well as a thee day wine-tasting getaway to Paso Robles and a relaxing spa stay at Two Bunch Palms in the desert.
Special thanks to auctioneer extraordinaire, Clint Hufft, who made parting with one’s money a fun-time for all! And no WBH event would be complete without hearing a few words from Gil Garcetti, the man who inspired its start! In spite of all the excitement and colorful décor, the “star” of the show was the Cohen’s dog, Peaches, who everyone wanted to take home!
Thanks to all who came to support our effort to save lives with safe water, particularly our incredibly Board of Directors! Special thanks to Board members, Eduardo Robles and David Girard who went above and beyond to make this event a success. Eduardo is a professional special events planner who made this event happen and is the person responsible all the beautiful floral arrangements. We also want to thank our very capable volunteers who helped at the event and of course, our photographer Tatsu, who captured it all!
