Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands-Riverside’s Chocolate Fantasy raised over $180,000 for Club programs on Feb. 8 — a record for the event.
Boys & Girls Club kids welcomed guests at the door. Attendees bid in live and silent auctions, and enjoyed dancing to the B.O.E. (Best of Everything) Band at the historic Mitten Building in Redlands.
Attendees enjoyed desserts and savory appetizers from local businesses, valet parking, and free-flowing champagne.
“The community has made our signature event possible for over 25 years,” said Club CEO P.T. McEwen. “It was a success again this year thanks to our generous supporters.”
Food participants included the Mitten, Mill Creek Cattle Co., Nothing Bundt Cakes, Old Spaghetti Factory, Michelle’s Bakery, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Buffalo Wild Wings, KVCR 91.9, and Board & Brush.
Attendees voted for Chocolatier of the Year, Restaurant of the Year, and Decorations of the Year. Michelle’s won for chocolatier and decorations and Mill Creek won for restaurant.
Live auction items included a trip to Ireland, dinner at the Rancho Mirage home of philanthropists Tim and Carol Rochford, tickets and a trip to see Hamilton on Broadway, one-of-a-kind experiences to see the San Francisco 49ers play at home and the Los Angeles Angels behind home plate, and stays in Puerto Rico, Kauai, and Cayucos.
The tables featured satin linens, chocolate, and rose-studded floral arrangements from S&E Wholesale Flowers. The inside of the building had soft lighting throughout for a romantic and fun ambience.
The event’s 26th anniversary sponsor was the Ramos and Ramirez family. Other sponsors included ADP, the Rochford Foundation, and Redlands Community Hospital. Alta Vista Credit Union sponsored the swag bag and iHerb sponsored the valet.
Redlands resident Ray Watts was the live auctioneer. He also co-hosted the event with KVCR 91.9 host Lillian Vasquez.
Groups including Assisteens, National Charity League, Inland Empire Job Corps, and Nike volunteered. Redlands resident Tom Kaney sold his handmade cutting boards to benefit the Club. —Joy
Posted: Feb. 20, 2020