Shelter from the Storm

VALLEY'S TOP 12 BACHELORS RAISED OVER
$28,000 AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

April 1, 2009 - Desert Cities, CA – In these tough economic times when abuse rises and funding for charities falls, 12 valley bachelors walked the plank on Monday night in the big white Fashion Tent on El Paseo, and with the generous support of over 300 enthusiastic ladies, raised over $28,000 for a very worthy cause. Auction proceeds benefited Shelter from the Storm, a local charity that provides comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence - professionally ethically and compassionately.

The event began with ManTini cocktails served in Cupid's Lounge where the 12 bachelors and 12 eligible hosts mixed and mingled with the 300 desert cities women who turned out to have fun and give support to women not as fortunate as themselves.

Jim Woody, one of the bachelors, and a retired police lieutenant who has seen domestic violence first-hand, said a few words about Shelter from the Storm.

A leading LA relationship coach, Julie Ferman, shared tips on the dos and don'ts of selecting the perfect bachelor / boyfriend / mate. "Never discount a man because the chemistry is not quite right," she said. "He may have lots of friends and you never know if one of them could be the right one for you." 

Each bachelor came with an outstanding ‘package' and superbly trained chef and sommelier Jason fetched the biggest bid. Included in his package was dinner for six with wine pairings prepared in the home of one of the winning ladies. A group of women from The Hideaway Golf Club teamed up and bid collectively on Jason.

Organizers of the event were: Event Chair Diana Marlo, Producer Dr. Audrey Reed, Ramona Kaptyn, Lynn Mack, Jasenka Sabanovic, Susan Panzarini and Sylvia Chavez who all volunteered their time and efforts. Bachelors, hosts, hostesses and others also gave freely of their talents.

Diana Marlo, Chair of the Desert Cities Charity Bachelors Auction said "Most of us have so much to be grateful for and this is one small way we can help other women and their children who are in need and we can have fun at the same time."

TV personalities Graison Foster and Steve Schill were emcees for the evening and partner in La Quinta's Old Town Coffee Company, Stuart Green, did a superb job encouraging ladies to bid for beaus as auctioneer.

The second annual Desert Cities Charity Bachelor Auction will be held again next year during Fashion Week.