As the crowd gathered on the patio of the Mallet Grille at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Friday, March 13, they knew they were in for an “Evening of Great Expectations” — a fundraiser for Grandma’s Place in Royal Palm Beach and the ministries of St. David’s in-the-Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington.
Amid much laughter and conversation, competition was fierce as guests outbid each other for some of the amazing silent auction items.
When the final bid sheets were collected, guests took their seats for dinner on the patio to enjoy the rest of the evening’s festivities.
Retired WPTV News Channel 5 anchor Jim Sackett, a strong advocate for the children of Palm Beach County, was the host for the evening. He regaled guests with a story of his segment on foster children called Thursday’s Child, which he filmed at Grandma’s Place.
Michele Poole, treasurer of Grandma’s Place, and Rev. Steven Thomas of St. David’s, shared some details about their organizations’ programs supporting those in need.
Poole thanked all the host members, committee members, sponsors, donors and attendees. She introduced and thanked Bertram and Diana Firestone, chairs of the event, and Bessie Gordon, the original “grandma” from Grandma’s Place, who is now retired.
While guests enjoyed their salads, they were entertained by the music of Robb Parisi, of Parisi Events, who donated his services for the evening. Auctioneer Jim Accursio then took the stage to entice the guests with some “once in a lifetime” opportunities up for bid in the live auction.
Guests then flocked to the dance floor, lighting it up with the glow necklaces that they received when they arrived. When the final song was played, guests finally called it a night and went home to enjoy all the great auction items they won.
To make sure you get an invitation next year, volunteer to serve on the committee, or for more information, call Roxanne Jacobs at (561) 408-3060 or e-mail roxanne@grandmasplacepb.org.
