By Cielestia Calbay
Clear, sunny weather and cool breezes set the springtime mood
for the second annual Southern California Tasting & Auction
last Sunday.
Old and new friends of the campus community mingled with one
another as the Cal Poly Jazz Combo performed.
Guests made their way through the Japanese Garden and into the
Rose Garden, where they greeted by somelieres were ready to
pour.
The event, which aimed to raise money for students to offset
tuition increases, featured an array of foods, wines and beers from
more than 30 vendors.
The event attracted many first-time guests, which Rachiel
Lucero, director of events and special projects, said was the
highlight of the tasting and auction.
“It was intended to bring the campus community back together, so
it was exciting to see so many new faces here,” said Lucero.
For some guests, the event was a way to reunite with old
friends; for others, it was a way to taste some of the area’s best
food.
Chino Hills resident Peter Sohms said he was impressed by the
extensive lineup of vendors.
“I’ve been to tasting and auction events like these before, but
it was interesting to see a good mix of restaurants and wineries ”
that’s what’s going to keep me coming back again,” said Sohms.
Some said the event is a way for students to recognize the
university’s established relationship with local vendors.
“This a good way for students to see that Cal Poly has a good
reputation with these restaurants if they’re able to sponsor with
us,” said John Abary, a fourth-year marketing student and
volunteer.
Throughout the event, guests snapped photographs with the
Arabian horses, as well as with Tony the Tiger, who made a surprise
appearance.
A live and silent auction was also held, and included items such
as signed entertainment and sports memorabilia.
Ani Markarian, senior graphic designer for the university,
auctioned off an original painting that depicted the campus’
rolling hills.
“It’s my pleasure to help raise money for students in every way
I can,” said Markarian.
“The painting’s Earth tones really set the color scheme for the
event.”
To enhance the auction experience, the event partnered with Bang
the Gavel Auction Services to provide professional auctioneers.
One-of-a-kind items were auctioned off, such as a baseball
autographed by President Barack Obama, an Andy Warhol serigraph
collage, and his-and-hers electric bikes from Green Tec.
Before the live auction, guests huddled around the most popular
auction item of the night ” a golden retriever puppy, which sold
for $2,250.
The event culminated with a performance by guitarist Clark
Atterbury, who performed acoustic covers.
Reach Cielestia Calbay at lifestyle@thepolypost.com
Erik Christiansen/Poly Post
Spring soiree fundraises for campus
Photos by Brandon Tan/Poly Post
Spring soiree fundraises for campus
Photos by Brandon Tan/Poly Post
Spring soiree fundraises for campus
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