Nothing Ordinary About This Black Tie Event

This assignment started out like many others. 

My video journal team consisting of my cameraman Bret and his gaffer/Key grip Brendon drew the assignment of covering the Century 21 Alliance 2nd Annual yellow Rose Black Tie Gala held Saturday,  August 11, 2007 as a benefit for Easter Seals Southwest Florida.   Upon arrival. at Michael's On East, in Sarasota, FL. I knew immediately that the sponsors had pulled out all the stops out and the organizers had spared no expense.   Guests entered through a long private glass covered atrium, featuring colorful French cafe murals and fabulous flowing fountains surrounded by gorgeous  tropical plants.  We saw a Who's Who list of Sarasota's movers and shakers. They turned out, dressed immaculately, in their best for this Black Tie affair.         We entered the main ball room at "Michaels on East" to be greeted with a  luxurious treat for the eyes.  It's rich jewel tones combined with the  patrons atire helped form a mood of elegance.  Custom lucite centerpieces on each table, lighted from a multi colored light souce below,  looked as if they should have been the showcase of some art exhibit on  tour.         On stage was a local celebrity guest MC Ray Collins from the local affiliate Fox 13 station.   The hosts spared nothing on the evenings entertainment, making this the event to be at in Sarasota this year!  Rarely have I witnessed so much effort spent by organizers to provide such a variety of entertainment to ensure everyone had a lovely time.  There was a display of Salsa dancing along with a  performance from International Opera sensation Dora Ines Cardona, accompanied by acclaimed pianist Elena Pierini.    A personal highlight for me was the smooth Jazz and RB sound brought by Mr. Henry Lawerence.  Mr. Lawrence is a 3 time Superbowl Champion but has segwayed into a promising singing career as far as I can tell.   In addition he was joined by National Recording Artist Twinkle Schascle Yochim, who has performed at the Montreaux Jazz Festival in Switzerland accompanied by Eric Clapton's band and under the direction of Quincy Jones (Michael Jackson) which won her International Critical Acclaim.            The combined talent and incredible presence brought forth by these amazing artists and the breath-taking ambience, made this, quite possibly, the best event, in Sarasota, this year.   Jill M. Gerolmo Special Correspondent