Andrew, Kim, Audra and Dustin at the 11AM seating. |
I HEART MALAWI 2007
Photos by Nancy Chuang & Laura Berning
After the surprising success of our
inaugural fundraiser on World AIDS Day 2006, we knew we had our work cut out for us in 2007. We weren't sure how we would match either the financial achievements or the fun, but with the hard work of Kip Myers & the whole We Are One Malawi crew, we managed to surpass both! To the delight of everyone involved, the combined funds raised through entrance fees, the silent auction and other donations reached
$24,875 as of 12.02.07.
The silent auction table, including a bike from the set of "Burn After Reading."
Click the photo to see LARGER. |
Less than a month before the big day, Kip set things into motion with Chelsea hot spot Sapa. Once we were confirmed, we began collecting silent auction items and planning entertainment.
Our wonderful sponsors provided extraordinary big-ticket items such as the Bianchi bike Brad Pitt rode in the Coen Brothers film "Burn After Reading," the [sold out] must-have Nintendo Wii, and 50,000 Continental Airline miles. Meegen Neeb and Maria Bierniak assembled various items into creative packages like the "Oh Baby!" bundle featuring Leapfrog toys and Ruby + Dash onesies, and a Sex & the City combo featuring the complete collector's edition DVDs and autographed clothing off the movie set.
Jazz guitarist Larry Corban provided ambient music.
|
 |
Claire introduces Gusty & the bingo prizes.
|
As Bitchy Bingo hostess Gusty Winds said,
a drag queen in the daytime is like a solar eclipse. |
|
Gusty Winds with her loyal assistant (for the day), Tom. |
Ian McGregor brought in jazz guitarist Larry Corban to play at the beginning of each seating, while Patrick Kyle arranged for a brunchtime soundtrack provided by Adam Sherrett. Claire Evans Kenny served as MC for the event, and Kip Myers gave a heartfelt speech about the We Are One Academy, his mother's role, and the goals of the organization.
Kat Delaney scored Gusty Winds from famous drag bar Lips as the hilarious host of Bitchy Bingo. Bingo was extremely popular, with the most determined players buying multiple cards. At the 1:30PM seating, cards sold out within minutes. No wonder—the bags containing prizes alone were worth $200 each!
The amazing Kip Myers with Matt and Will.
|
The delicious food, free-flowing drinks and beautiful space provided by Sapa were better than we could have dreamed. Everyone had a wonderful time, and most importantly, made a difference in some very special children's lives. Thanks again to everyone who came, and to those who donated separately—we missed you and hope to see you next time.
Check out last year's event.
)
