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This was our best Fur Ball ever! 

Did we catch you on film at the Fur Ball?  Check and see HERE and HERE and HERE

See photos from the private patrons' party with Bo Derek HERE

See some of the volunteer photos from the night HERE and More Volunteers

Buy your photo from the Fur Ball HERE **

See the room, the cakes, the car, the decor, flower sculpture and more HERE

** Jeff Fay, photographer Hollowtree Images 15711 Mapledale Dr., Suite A Tampa, FL 33624-3112 813-962-3270 studio 813-477-2429 cell www.hollowtreeimages.com

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Friday, October 12, 2007 A La Carte Pavilion 6:30PM  to  Midnight

With FOX 13's Cynthia Smoot as celebrity emcee and renowned actress and animal advocate Bo Derek attending to receive the first Big Cat Rescue "Wildlife Guardian Angel" award. Proceeds to support four mistreated tigers rescued in May.

   To see the Fox 13 ad click here

Sponsored by the following "King of Beasts" sponsors and the other generous sponsors listed further down on this page:

"GRRREAT FUN" are the words that are most often used to describe the hugely successful sold out Fur Ball in past years.

The fun starts in deciding what to wear and then seeing how other people dress. The "Safari Costume Formal" attire is described below, with links to photos from prior years.

Then, thanks to generous donors and vendors, the ball is packed with activity and culinary delights. These include:

 

 

DETAILS OF EVENT

LOCATION: The fabulous A La Carte Event Pavilion at 4050 Dana Shores Dr. Tampa, FL 33634 off Memorial Highway by Rocky Point Golf Course.  For detailed directions and information, click here or on photo above of the Pavilion. Security provided by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Dept. 

ATTIRE: We call the unique Fur Ball attire “Safari Costume Formal”. You can come in traditional formal attire, come in safari, cat print or jungle orientation costume, or any mix in between, such as part formal with cat print accessorizing.  Be creative and have fun with it! Prizes will be awarded! Use your imagination - get wild!   For examples from the past visit www.bigcatrescue.org/FurBallPhotos.htm

To get your hats and accessories for the Fur Ball while supporting the cats, click on the highlighted text. (At the hat store use the code word big cats). For a discount on a tux click here.

FOOD AND DRINK:

Complimentary Wine by Papio: Papio Wines, who support primate preservation through contributions to the African Wildlife Fund, have generously donated enough 50 cases of wine allowing us to offer complimentary wine bars with their wonderful Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon before the meal and, in addition, then serve complimentary Chardonnay and Merlot during the meal!

Complimentary Cocktail: Ticket for complimentary cocktail before dinner with each admission. Jim Beam, Absolut, Canadian Club and other fine spirits generously provided by Future Brands.

Complimentary Beer:  Check out Pepin Distributing's table of exotic beers.

Gourmet Dinner by A La Carte: Your choice of one of the following main courses. We recently went for a tasting and both dishes are absolutely to die for. We encourage our guests to experiment with the vegetarian meal even if it is not your usual diet. Last year's got rave reviews and this years is even better. But for those who prefer otherwise, the tilapia entre below is absolutely fantastic. When you make your reservation please indicate if you would like the vegetarian selection.

MAIN COURSE - CHOICE OF:

Vegetarian Selection:  Portobello "Wellington" A Braised Portobello Mushroom topped with a Goat Cheese and Wild Mushroom Pate Enrobed in Puff Pastry with Rainbow Chard, Roasted Garlic Parsnip Potato Puree and Mushroom Madeira Wine Reduction.

Fish Selection: Pan Seared Tilapia (not US farm raised) over Mashed New Potatoes with Grilled Asparagus Pecan Brown Butter and Caper Berries.

DESSERT:

Chocolate Meringue "Raft" filled with Banana Rum Compote on a "Sea" of Strawberry Coulis with a Chocolate Leopard Print Sail

ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES:

Live music: The Wholly Cats Band will return this year with a brand new sound.

Rolex Raffle: Raffle tickets are on sale now through the ball to win an elegant Men’s Rolex Oyster Perpetual Airking stainless steel watch with white roman numeral dial, oyster bracelet, engine turned bezel.  The retail price $3675.  Generously donated by AvantGold Jewelers. For more info and to purchase tickets visit www.BigCatRescue.org/Rolex.htm

Live Auction:  Last year's live auction, run by renowned auctioneer Wade West, was a huge hit.  It included three spectacular international trips.  Wade is working on this year's selection, but to get an idea what they are likely to be like, see Live Auction Items below to view last year's items and the sleek, sexy 30 days in a Jaguar XK Convertible donated by King of Beasts Sponsor Jaguar of Tampa that will be in this year's auction.

Silent Auction:  From the many items donated we will select a limited number of special items to be in the silent auction.  This year's auction will have a different kind of gradual item close out than you have ever seen before that will add to the excitement of your bidding!  Thank our donors!

Big Cat Bargain Sale: Featured for the first time last year and back by popular demand.  This is a great way to support the cats while saving on meals, gifts or items you just want or need.  This is like going to a great department store and finding everything marked 25-50% off!  When you purchase a restaurant or golf certificate or other item at a discount, since you would eat out, golf, or buy gifts anyway, you are not spending money, you are saving money, and helping the cats at the same time.  Start your holiday shopping now in a way that also helps support the cats!  Thank our donors!

Drumming Circle: Jana Broder returns based on popular demand with her "let it all hang out" drumming circle. You simply sit down in the circle behind a djembes drum when you please and follow the beat. You will be amazed at how easy, how mellowing, and how much fun it is! Everyone who tries it raves about it.

Tarot and Palm Readings: Clang is a psychic entertainer who will be reading from her beautiful cat themed tarot deck for your enjoyment and enlightenment. All proceeds from the readings will go directly to Big Cat Rescue. Traveling with Clang all the way from Chicago, Angela from VIP BACHELORETTE will also be on hand to entertain you while you are waiting in the anticipated line. All readings are fun and uplifting, so don't be a "scaredy cat" come join in the fun. VIP BACHELORETTE is proud to be a supporter of Big Cat Rescue.

 

EVENING ITINERARY (subject to adjustment)

6:30-7:15 Check in. Enjoy unlimited complimentary Papio Wine, Confection Tasting, coupon for drink at bar, bid in the silent auction, first dibs on the great values at the Big Cat Bargains Sale. 7:15 Dinner is served 7:25 Introduction by guest emcee Cynthia Smoot followed by short video. 7:35 Welcome from Founder and brief awards (and we do mean brief...we are here to party!) followed by short video. 8:00 - 8:30 Live Auction.  Trips and once in a lifetime opportunities presented by professional auctioneer Wade West. 8:30 Costume Contest finalists to the stage to draw for winner! 8:45-10:00 Silent Auction, Big Cat Bargains Sale, Dancing, Drumming Circle, Tarot and Palm Reading, Complimentary Wine Bar, Donation Cash Bar, Vote for the Best Big Cat Themed Dessert by tasting all. 10:00 Raffle Drawing to see who wins the Rolex Watch! 10:00- 10:30 Silent Auction items close in succession with winners announced. 11:00 Wheel of Fur-tune Raffle Drawing 10:00- 12:00 Dancing to the sounds of The Wholly Cats Band, Big Cat Bargains Sale, Drumming Circle until 11PM, Complimentary Wine Bar, Donation Cash Bar.

ROLEX RAFFLE BY AVANTGOLD

 

Purchase tickets to win this elegant Men’s Rolex Oyster Perpetual Airking stainless steel watch with white roman numeral dial, oyster bracelet, engine turned bezel.  The retail price $3675.  Donated by AvantGold Jewelers who is also donating a $1,000.00 gift certificate to the winner of the Wheel of Fur-tune grand prize winner. 1 ticket for only $20, best deal is 7 tickets for $100. To purchase tickets visit www.BigCatRescue.org/Rolex.htm

 

 

LIVE AUCTION ITEMS

30 Days in the 2008 Jaguar XK Convertible newly released this year  

Spend 30 days in a sleek Jaguar XK Convertible donated by Jaguar of Tampa. Jaguar of Tampa has been a major supporter of Big Cat Rescue since 2003. Their involvement began when they provided the financial support that allowed us to rescue two sick, aging jaguar cats who were being kept in a basement in a roadside zoo in New Hampshire. For more on this generous rescue and photos of the cats CLICK HERE. Jaguar of Tampa is located at 320 E. Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612. 813-371-8200.

Christmas Market Cruise to Vienna

Christmas in Vienna and the small towns of Austria is like nothing else in the world.  Spend eight days / seven nights marveling at snow covered peaks in a winter wonderland. You’ll be gasping at the beauty as your cruise ship takes you down the Blue Danube, visiting a new town every day.  You’ll get spectacular bargains as local craftsmen show their Christmastime treasures to you.  This wonderful escape includes round trip air for two; two nights’ accommodations in Vienna where you can dance the Viennese Waltz in the park were Straus wrote it, all your meals on your six days aboard your luxurious river cruise ship and the most spectacular Christmas memories ever.

Escape to Europe's Secret Vacation Spot - Majorca 

To get the attention of Europe's beautiful people, all you have to do is whisper one word….. "Majorca."  This gorgeous island, floating spectacularly in the Mediterranean off the southern coast of Spain, has long been the playground for Europe's elite.  With soft, pure-white, perfect sand beaches and the gentle Mediterranean lapping up at your toes, it doesn't get any better than this.  The vegetation in Majorca is so lush that world champion Arabian stallion horses are flown there every winter to rest and recuperate from their demanding show schedule.  Nightlife in Majorca?  There are well-founded rumors that the word "discotheque" was invented by a group of vacationing French movie stars during their stay in Majorca.  The dining in Majorca is like nothing else you have ever experienced; you don't go to a restaurant; it's as if you are old friends and personal guests of some of the finest hosts and chefs in the world.  Includes round-trip air from Orlando, your beachfront hotel, and all the relaxation and fun you can pack into your week in Majorca.  The two of you may go there as friends, even old friends, but she will return as newly reinvigorated lovers.

 

Tigers, and the Taj Mahal

Just for you…. The Tigers of India– Enter a world of romantic marvels and wonder…. and majestic tigers roaming free.  Your visit begins at the Taj Mahal, a majestic monument to the memory of love and beauty, but it is not the only sight in India full of grace.  After the Taj Mahal you move on to the game parks of Bandhavgarh.  These parks are home to the beautiful tigers of India, where they range freely and lucky visitors can watch these amazing animals from atop an elephant or by jeep.  We all benefit from seeing these beautiful and powerful giant cats at Big Cat Rescue, but just think what it would be like to see them in the wild.  Biologists fear wild Tigers will become extinct in our lifetime.  Don’t miss this chance to see them up close in their natural habitat.  Your 7 day/6 night trip includes roundtrip airfare, all accommodations, your visit to the Taj Mahal and guided park safari. 

 

Lions, Cheetahs and Elephants oh my…

Are you a quick shot?  With your camera, that is!  Your African photo safari begins as you depart on your flight to Nairobi for the trip of a lifetime.  Your safari will take you to the Sarova Shaba Lodge at Mount Kenya and the fabled Lion Hill Lodge at Lake Nakuru where you will have noble gorillas in your midst.  Then it’s on to your spectacular accommodations at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.  Ladies and Gentlemen, be warned!  Have your cameras ready at all times on Maasai Mara because that movement in the corner of your eye could just be elusive leopard, fleet footed cheetah or majestic lions in the wild!  This 9 day/8 night trip for two includes your roundtrip air to Nairobi, all transfers, all dining, all your spectacular game drives and 6 nights lodging in Kenya, and memories for a lifetime.

 

One Hour For Two in High Tech Military Flight Training Simulator - Priceless!

Have you ever wanted to fly a plane, if so here is your chance.  “Fly” a C-130 Hercules Simulator.  You and a companion will spend 60 minutes in a high tech flight training device.  Under the guidance of an expert pilot, you can take off, fly and land this four engine turboprop military craft.  This simulator is being used everyday by U.S. and international military aircrews.  This opportunity is not offered to the general public at any price, but is being graciously donated to the Fur Ball by CAE USA, INC.

 

 

Bucs Club Seats and Memorabilia

These are not just Bucs tickets - they are CLUB SEATS with private entrance, padded seats, great view, and access to the exclusive Club Lounge!  Two tickets each to four games - see the  Originally $250 each (total value $2000) and sold out so not available.  See games 7-10 in ultimate luxury!  Note: auction winner agrees not to resell these tickets. Generously donated by Jeff and Brigitte Ajluni. 

In addition, you receive three collector’s item Bucs bobble heads of John Lynch, Martin Gramatic and Brad Johnson that retailed for $25 each, you drive up in style with your own $25 Bucs license plate, AND you shop like a true fan with a $100 gift certificate from Buccaneer Heaven on Florida Avenue, all courtesy of Jeff Fox of Buccaneer and Bulls Heaven.

 

 

 

 

Silent Auction

Below are a few of the items that will appear in the silent auction:

 

Four Days at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya

Each year a group of volunteers and staff from Big Cat Rescue take a trip to Africa. Out of all of the available safari camps, Lewa is the one they choose. Every year our travelers come back raving about the experience. Lewa has generously donated Four Nights in their Safari Camp that includes full board and game drives for two people (does not include airfare). To learn more about Lewa, you can visit www.lewa.org or email info@lewa.org

Fused Glass Art by Lisa Vogt

This 12x20 inch fused glass piece titled “Here’s Looking At You” by award winning artist Lisa Vogt was created based on a photo of our tiger China Doll. 

Lisa’s work is owned by private collectors throughout the world and her work is commissioned for public art sites regionally. 

Her 5 foot by 15 foot iron and fused glass kite series titled, Kites in Flight, is installed at Tampa International Airport. Lisa has authored numerous books and writes for publications like Glass Art and Glass Craftsman.  National and regional seminars seek Lisa for lectures and programs.  Lisa has appeared on both PBS and HGTV to speak on glass related topics.  A piece similar to this recently sold at auction for $3400.

Mouse over image to see the inspiration Lisa got from our China Doll.

 

Week Vacation in North Carolina Mountains

Big Cat Mountain Lair Cabin: Week long Vacation in Bryson City, N.C. This Cabin is a 2 Bedroom 1 1/2 Bath with a Loft that has 2 Single Beds suitable for Children.  Full Kitchen, Central Heat and Air, Washer and Dryer, Satellite TV, Fully furnished, all you need is food.It is located on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountain Park on a Private Mountain, bordered on one side by the Oconaluftee River, secluded, yet only minutes to town. We are 4 miles from Cherokee and 6 miles from Bryson City. Miles of Beautiful Scenic Roads to walk on, Picnic area along the river to cook out, build a Fire and enjoy the Peace and Quiet. A Beautiful Vacation place where you will build wonderful Memories and want to return again. http://www.stairsmountaincabin.com Donated by Vern & Barbara Stairs.

 

Two Round Trip AirTran Tickets

AirTran Airways has generously donated two round trip coach class domestic tickets anywhere they fly valued at up to $1200.

 

Weekend in Mercedes SLK 280 or SLK 350

Ride in luxury with the top down and wind blowing through your hair for a weekend in this elegant sports care donated by Cougar Sponsor Lokey Mercedes.

 

 

 

Humidor

Elegant maple and walnut wooden inlays on the lid of this humidor with redwood sides. Holds up to 160 cigars. 13 1/3” x 9 3/8” x 6”. High gloss finish with Executive Series Enhancements such as IMAS® (Invisible Magnet Attachment System).  Donated by J.C. Newman Cigar Company. PLUS two boxes of Cuesta Rey Pyramid #9 cigars to start you off!

 

 

 

COSTUME CONTEST PRIZE

Our costume scout committee will select 10 contestants to be called to the stage to display their costumes. The winner will receive:

Week Vacation in Pennsylvania Mountain Resort Condo

Spend a week in Big Cat Rescue's condo at Wolf Run Manor  at the beautiful Treasure Lake in Du Bois, PA. Hike 9000 acres of woodlands, swim at the many beaches and pools. Amenities include boating, two PGA rated golf courses, driving range, nature trails, basketball court, sledding, tubing hill, parks, playgrounds and a marina. Week 31 (August 2008)

 

BIG CAT RESCUE IS INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS

FOR SUPPORTING THIS EVENT AND OUR WORK WITH THE CATS

PLEASE CONSIDER THANKING OUR SPONSORS WITH YOUR PATRONAGE

 

KING OF BEASTS CHAMPIONS

MAJOR MEDIA SPONSORS 

MAGIC 94.9 101.5 The Point 105.5 FM WDUV The Dove 102.5 FM The Bone 107.3 The Eagle - Tampa Bay's Classic HitsStation      97x- Tampa Bay's New Rock  Alternative

 

 

LEOPARD RESCUERS

 

COUGAR DEFENDERS

 

IN KIND SPONSORS

Wine Sponsor:

Papio Winery is dedicated to supporting animal causes and donates a portion of their profits to the African Wildlife Foundation to protect some of Africa ’s most treasured primates, such as the chimpanzee, golden monkey, mountain gorilla and bonobo, along with their habitats. We are honored to have them as our wine sponsor for the third consecutive year. Their generous donation allows us offer complimentary wine throughout the event, including dinner.

What do the wines taste like? This is how Papio Winemaker Erick Schultz answers that question: "Papio wines are all about fruit. Our 2004 Chardonnay has bright flavors of crisp pineapple, citrus, and tropical fruit with juicy, balanced flavors and a refreshing finish. Our 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon has distinctive berry and black cherry character, with jazz hints of lavender and spice. Our 2004 Merlot has lush plum and red cherry character, with an easy-to-love soft, smooth texture. I’m currently blending our newest varietal, Pinot Grigio, that will be in stores in early 2006. Our 2005 Pinot Grigio has luscious citrus and melon flavors, and is a refreshing addition to the Papio family."

 

Spirits Sponsor: 

Future Brands is a new sponsor this year providing all of the Jim Beam, Absolut and other fine brands of liquor for the complimentary drink and donation based cash bar throughout the night. Our sincere thanks for this fabulous addition to the ball.

Champagne Sponsor:

Freixenet has generously sponsored the Champagne for the Fur Ball gala.

 

 

Beer Sponsor:

Pepin Distributing Company, in addition to being a table sponsor, is setting up a table of their best exotic international beers for your enjoyment.

 

Cigar Sponsor:

J.C. Newman Cigar Company is another new sponsor this year. They are graciously providing 100 Pyramid #9 cigars available by donation for your smoking pleasure on the patio or in the future. In addition, they have offered a beautiful Craftsman's Beach humidor for our auction/sale.

Visit J.C. Newman Cigar Company here:

www.CigarFamily.com

 

 

Gaming Table Sponsor: 

Dan Mar Productions generously has donated their custom made Big Cat Wheel of Fur-tune where you wager by picking the cat photo the spinning wheel will land on. Be sure to reward their generosity to the cats by calling on them for your next party.  They can do everything from a house party to a complete ballroom set up.  Dan and Mary and their professional staff have been a pleasure to work with.  Consider throwing an exciting Casino Night party of your own to help raise money for Big Cat Rescue and be sure to call on the experts you know who have shown their compassion for the big cats.  Win a $1,000.00 gift certificate to AvantGold if you are the grand prize winner at this Wheel of Fur-tune. 

 

Tarot and Palm Reading Sponsor:

Clang flies all the way from Chicago to deliver her insights, with all proceeds going to the cats. Learn what the cards or your palm have to say about you and your future!

 

 

 

The exciting animal themed decor is donated by the A La Carte Event Pavilion.

 

 

 

Table Sponsors:

ActSoft, Inc.
Ameriprise Financial Services
Bank of Florida
Boh Family
Candace Barbara
Carl & Susan Bass
Charles Rutenberg Realty
Florida Medical Clinic
Griffen Family
Hawthorne Pond
IDAutomation, Inc.
Lorrie's Hair Design Pepin Distributing Company
PriceWaterhouseCoopers
piperpaul+kenny
Saint Pete MRI
TECO
Thomas-Hunt Family
Thomas Printing
TOPS Software
TSE - Klingel Family
Verizon
Zalkin Family

 

Silent Auction and Big Cat Bargain Donors

 

Our cats are only kept alive through your support. 

On behalf of the cats, thank you!
FUR BALL COMMITTEE:

Jamie Veronica, Susan Mitchell, Denny Mitchell, Scott Lope, Bridget Bolger, Cynthia Montayre, Ann Canterbury, Guata, Leslie and Howie Baskin.

Thanks for all of your hard work!

If you or your company have any product or service that we could add to our auction, PLEASE contact Denny at 813-299-7388 or Denny@BigCatRescue.org.  You help a great cause while building awareness for your company not only to the hundreds of guests who are desirable customers or clients, but also to the thousands of supporters who read our newsletter and website. Certificates for dinner or other local services are especially helpful.  If your gift is valued at $500 or more, please submit a photo and short bio on yourself or your company so we can provide extra recognition. Thank you.

A FEW COMMENTS FROM PAST YEARS' GUESTS:

2005: Rob Elder from Jaguar of Tampa said, “This could be the most important social event of the year!  We are going to come every year”. In 2004, he and his fiancée were there despite her being about to give birth to their first child, and in 2005 he had to come alone because they just had their second child days before!  Congratulations!

2006: Jay O'Conner of Cox Radio said, “It's going to fill the Raymond James stadium at this rate!  This is such an important cause to my heart.”

2007: "You have done it again! Last night was an absolutely fabulous party. I hope, of course, that you made lots of money for the cats – but the fundraising aside, the Fur Ball is one of the best parties out there. The video was excellent and moving, the food was delicious, Cynthia (Smoot) did a great job, Bo (Derek) was a wonderful addition, the auction had great items and kept the crowd involved, the drum circle and dancing are always a hoot…and of course looking at everyone’s outfits is a huge part of the fun. I also heard lots of positive comments about the shopping set-up, as opposed to silent auction. So thank you!!" Hugs, Cathy Unruh

 

 

 

Things that we heard over and over from countless people were:

“You guys really know how to throw a party!”

"This is so much fun!  I am crying at the stories of the cats, but just can't stop dancing!” (The cats stories and photos rotated all night on a 12 foot, 6 foot and 2 foot screen in different rooms)

"Most fun event I've attended all year!"

Big Cat Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The sanctuary provides a permanent home for unwanted, abused and neglected exotic cats.  Lions, Tigers, Leopards, Bobcats and more reside at the 45 acre Citrus Park refuge located just across the street from the Westfield Shopping Town. The Fur Ball is an annual event to raise funds for the close to 140 cats in our care.

 

 

Big Cat Rescue is an educational sanctuary and a home for more than 100 big cats  12802 Easy St. Tampa, FL 33625 813.920.4130 Info@BigCatRescue.org