Mornings With Gina Birch

Special Equestrians Annual Taste Of Love event is huge success this year. The event was held last night (March 19) at The Ranch in Fort Myers. I emceed while Jay Severson (pictured above) auctioned off numerous lots that included trips to Mexico, a jewelry design experience with  Mark Loren, weekend rentals of Bentley’s, Jaguars and more. Jay is not your ordinary auctioneer. He is in the crowd in your face and brings so much life to the program.

It’s the 20th anniversary of this event which was one of the first in the area to highlight chef stations serving small bites with wine pairings. Over the years it has grown and transitioned but food and wine are still the theme. Raising money is the goal. It’s one of my favorite fundraising events. I’ve attended for years, and have been the emcee for 11 of them.

What is Special Equestrians

The Special Equestrians offers unique, therapeutic riding programs to  help kids and adults in Southwest Florida with disabilities. The story we heard last night about how the riding program changed the life of Zak, had the crowd in tears. It was truly heartwarming. Funds are needed to pay for the horses, to build a new shelter and finally to cover the costs of the riders. The program relies heavily on volunteers to opeerate.

Big thanks to all who attended last night. Thank you especially, to everyone who donated to keep this program operating. Special Equestrians annual Taste Of Love event is a huge success this year. Here are a few photos of the food, the event, and the volunteers, along with a few selfies.

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