The Junior Orange Bowl Committee (JOBC) conducted its annual fundraising auction recently at the Miami Rowing Club on Key Biscayne.
A “Jungle Safari” theme and floral decorations by Fleur-de-Lis Designs set the mood for a fun and eventful night. Jungle Island helped complete the theme by bringing live animals, which included a snake, skunk and parrot.
As DJ Zelda’s music played in the background and professional photographer Alberto Romeu’s camera flashes lit up the room, guests socialized and participated in a silent auction. Outside, guests enjoyed perfect weather and an open bar provided by Bacardi, which helped keep everyone lively and entertained.
During the past few months, businesses from all around town and beyond donated items and gift certificates to support the cause. The silent auction included more than 50 items, ranging from restaurant and shopping gift certificates to various activities and collectables such as an autographed football by Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne.
In addition to the silent auction, there were five live auction items, which included a Dolphin Odyssey at the Miami Seaquarium, Junior Orange Bowl Parade package, three-night stay at the Watercolor Inn & Resort, two-night Keys Getaway package, as well as a Goodyear Blimp ride.
Dick Bullman, the live auctioneer, created an authentic and organized live auction atmosphere. Throughout the night, guests enjoyed delicious food provided by Relish Miami.
The JOBC Auction Committee was extremely pleased with the turnout this year.
“We were very happy with this year’s event,” said Cecilia Slesnick, co-chair of the Auction Committee. “The Junior Orange Bowl is making a difference on the global stage right in our community, and that is a cause to stand by.”
The JOBC hosts the largest youth and arts festival in the world, consisting of about 15 different events during the festival. The money raised from the auction will go a long way towards helping the JOBC make the festival possible.
The Auction Committee was led by co-chairs Slesnick and Robin Dunlap with the help of volunteers that included Don Slesnick III, Maggie and Rusty Hill, Bonita Whytehead, Veronica Ramirez, Frandley DeFilie, Joey Deyerle, Kate Swain, Luisa Perez and Patrick Harris.
Also playing important roles were JOBC president Brian Seits, executive director Mark Pidal, special events director Tiffany Kennedy, and communications coordinator John Maxsween.
The Junior Orange Bowl Festival is possible with the support of the City of Coral Gables, Miami Children’s Hospital, Orange Bowl Committee, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Cultural Affairs Council, Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council, Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.
The JOBC Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that serves the community of South Florida and the youth of the world by providing opportunities for wholesome, competitive and multi-cultural experiences.
For more information, call 305-662-1210 or visit the Junior Orange Bowl website at www.jrorangebowl.org.
