DREAM GALA 2012
Diamonds Are Forever, the theme of the Dream Foundation's 2012 gala, was conveyed throughout the evening as guests celebrated D.C.'s storied baseball past alongside its bright future, from the beloved Senators and powerhouse Grays to today's red-hot Nationals.
Held on Saturday, June 16, at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, the evening kicked off with a cocktail reception featuring 200 silent auction items, including imaginative "player favorites" baskets, exciting sports memorabilia and unique experience packages. Following the cocktail reception, guests entered the glittering Potomac Ballroom where Masters of Ceremony Bob Carpenter and F.P. Santangelo introduced the stars of the show-the 2012 Washington Nationals-and David Gregory narrated a video about the work of the Dream Foundation. Nationals third base coach Bo Porter also spoke movingly about the importance of sports in the lives of children before the evening concluded with a dynamic live auction.
Nationals radio announcers Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler presided over the fast-paced auction, which included an $11,500 bid for Bryce Harper's D.C. debut game-used jersey and cap. Bryce graciously threw in a game-used bat to push the bidding up, resulting in the highest bid for baseball memorabilia received in Dream Foundation history. Additionally, the Dream Foundation received its highest bid ever on a single item-$14,000 for a suite for 25 at the upcoming Bruce Springsteen concert at Nationals Park.
The combination of auctions and seat sponsorships netted an incredible $424,000 for the Dream Foundation, which will directly support its cornerstone programs.
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