Tacoma, Wash. (October 31, 2006)—Three hundred and forty guests dressed in red tie and Roaring Twenties attire attended the Museum of Glass’ third annual gala and auction on Saturday, September 30, 2006.  RED HOT featured a Roaring Twenties theme complete with flappers and torch singers. A floor show featuring artist James Mongrain, jazz musicians Ricardo & Friends, and Tacoma Actors Guild took place in the Hot Shop, the Museum’s glass-blowing studio.  Bobby Medina and the Red Hot Band played for after-dinner dancing.  Dinner was catered by McCormick & Schmicks.

The event featured both live and silent auctions with 58 glass objects up for bid.  Emcee Bob Flick hosted the live auction which was presented by Dick and Sharon Friel.  The two auctions, combined with a Fund-An-Artist paddle raise to support the Museum’s 2007 Summer Hot Shop Artist Series, raised a total of $269,000 for the Museum’s exhibition and education programs.

“The night was a tremendous success,” stated Dixie Coggins, chief advancement officer for the Museum.  “Our guests enjoyed all of the events of the evening and they really stepped up to support the Museum’s programs.”

William Traver, owner of William Traver Gallery, was the Honorary Chair.  Museum director Timothy Close toasted Traver and thanked him for his leadership and support of the local arts community.  Board Vice-Chair Mary Thomas made a special presentation honoring Dr. Philip Phibbs and George F. Russell, Jr. as Chair Emeriti.  Russell and Phibbs were the first two Museum of Glass Board Chairs, respectively, and were awarded glass keys created by the Museum’s Hot Shop team.