Love in the air at The BASH

Eric and Jessica at The BASH

Eric Farinacci and Jessica Wutz, both Western New York natives, have been regular guests at Buffalo’s annual Red Cross BASH. They both attended BASH*2011, but little did they know it was going to change their lives forever.

Believe it or not, it all started while Eric was standing in line for the bathroom. This was the first time he had spotted Jessica, and he knew right away that he had to go talk to her. She was attending the BASH with her brother, while Eric was there with his cousin, whom he used as a “wingman” to help start a conversation with Jessica. Once they got to talking, they realized that they actually worked together at Creditors Interchange, but they had never met until that night.

They began casually hanging out until officially being labeled boyfriend and girlfriend a few months later. After dating for about four years, Eric knew he wanted this relationship to last a lifetime.

He initially got in touch with Regional Communications Jay Bonafede to discuss his plans for proposing to Jessica. Eric wanted to pop the question where they first met, the BASH, but they were unable to make it last year. Once he found out that news, it was time for plan B. He asked Jay if he could use the site of the BASH—the Clement Mansion grounds—and after getting the go-ahead, Eric planned the entire thing in a week’s time.

On a beautiful Saturday last June, Eric invited 41 of their close friends and family to the Western New York Chapter. While Jessica was riding in her best friend’s car, she thought she was coming to the Red Cross to pick up a certificate for donating. Much to her surprise, the first person she ran into upon her arrival was Eric, who happened to be walking their dog.

Jessica said yes!

“I told her I was walking the dog,” said Eric. “She had absolutely no clue what was going on.”

When Jessica turned the corner, she saw all of their close friends and family waiting in a group. Everyone was bunched up under the big tree in front of the Clement Mansion, the exact spot they met four years earlier.

“I was really confused as to why everyone was there and didn’t really think anything of it,” said Jessica. “Until I saw everyone take out their phones and start taking pictures.”

Eric proposed to Jessica on June 13, 2015, and of course, she said yes. Jessica said it was fitting to have him propose at the site of the BASH because not only is it where they met, they also spent part of their first Valentine’s Day together there.

Eric and Jessica are tying the knot June 4, 2016,
one day after #RedCrossBASH and five years
after they first met at this very spot
during BASH*2011

Jessica and Eric will be tying the knot on June 4, 2016. That is the day after this year’s BASH and the five-year anniversary of the day they met at BASH*2011. They’ll be a little too busy to #PartyWithAPurpose this year, but they are both planning to attend the BASH in the future because they say it’s their favorite event.

 “It’s a fun event that always has great music and the atmosphere is amazing,” Jessica said. “The theme is always so fitting.”

Will love be in the air again this year? Find out at #RedCrossBASH June 3! Get your tickets now at www.redcross.org/buffalobash. And congratulations and best of luck, Eric and Jessica! We’ll see you for BASH*2017….

--Jacquelyn Fricano, WNY Chapter                     

Communications Intern

Volunteer. Lance would approve

Goo Goo Doll Johnny Resnik performs a tribute to their friend
and ours, Lance Diamond

Last Friday, I had the honor of representing the Western New York Chapter at a tribute to our friend, longtime BASH artist Lance Diamond. Lance was a true Buffalo icon, and his performances for the past 10+ years truly helped turn the BASH into the "Party of the Summer.

Lance's love for the Red Cross showed in the fact we were the only non-profit organization invited to share the stage with musicians, including Buffalo's own Goo Goo Dolls. It was truly humbling to be told, over and over again, how much Lance enjoyed being a part of The BASH and supporting the Red Cross.

Many of his fans are looking for ways to honor Lance's memory. If you're like me, you can't sing a lick, but you could still give back to your community and the Red Cross by becoming a volunteer. Volunteers make up 90% of our workforce and help turn heartbreak into hope for neighbors in need every single day. In the 26 counties that make up the Western and Central New York Region, we responded to over 1,129 house fires between January 1 and December 1 of 2014, providing food, clothing, shelter and support for people, but you don't have to be willing to go to the scene of a fire in the middle of the night to be a Red Cross volunteer. There's an opportunity to suit every skill and schedule, from helping organize blood drives to helping facilitate emergency communications between members of our military and their families. Just visit our website to get started. We'd love to welcome you to the team, and somewhere, Lance Diamond will be smiling, wearing one of his trademark suits. RIP, Lance, BASH*2015 won't be the same without you!

Red Cross is #Blue4Ben

If you've watched the news or followed the social media accounts of Western New Yorkers the past week or so, you've heard about #Blue4Ben. The story of Ben Sauer, a little boy battling a brain tumor, has touched the entire community, and we here at the Red Cross are no different.

Photo courtesy http://bensauer.blogspot.com/

We recently learned that one of our longtime Ombudsman volunteers, David Lombardo, is Ben's Great Grandfather. David has been part of the Red Cross family since 2001, making regular visits to help the residents of Brompton Heights assisted living facility in Williamsville. Today, the staff and residents of Brompton Heights are repaying David's kindness, going #BlueForBen by wearing the youngster's favorite color and raising funds to help the family.

We may be the RED Cross, but we're also #Blue4Ben. Even before learning about the connection, we donated a Red Cross basket, including BASH*2014 tickets, that was part of the auction at a fundraiser over the weekend. Now, this story has touched us personally, and we will be there to support David and his family through these difficult times, just as he has supported countless others during more than a decade as a Red Cross volunteer.

We're pulling for you, Ben, and for all the other children and families fighting similar battles.

BASH*2013 Raises Over $352,000 to Support Red Cross Disaster Services

Local volunteers assisting 23 area residents following weekend fires

BUFFALO, NY, June 11, 2013 – BASH*2013 was a huge success, raising $352,00 to support American Red Cross Disaster Services in Erie & Niagara Counties. Over 4,000 “soldiers” marched on the grounds of Red Cross headquarters last Friday, June 7 for the 15^th Anniversary of this unique military-themed event, bidding on auction items donated by various members of the community, enjoyed food and drink from some of Western New York’s finest restaurants, all while dancing to the music of the DJs from Signature Entertainment and a live performance from the one and only Lance Diamond.

“I can’t thank our staff, volunteers, sponsors and supporters enough for making The BASH Buffalo’s party of the summer for the past 15 years,” said Nancy Blaschak, Regional Executive Director. “I especially want to thank our BASH Chairman, Mr. John Yurtchuk, for helping us bring in a record amount of corporate sponsorships this year, and the most important thing is that all the money raised at The BASH will help us prevent, prepare for and respond to disaster right here in Western New York.”

Since BASH*2013 wrapped up at midnight Friday, Red Cross volunteers have responded to three fires in the City of Buffalo, providing immediate emergency assistance including vouchers for temporary housing, food and clothing as well as emotional support to 23 of our neighbors in need. Our Disaster Action Team responds to an average of a fire a day in Erie & Niagara Counties, providing an average of just over $1,000 in direct financial assistance when responding to a single family house fire affecting a family of four. 

More information on BASH*2013, including a full list of sponsors, participating restaurants and other supporters, is available at www.redcross.org/buffalobash. And save the date: the 16^th annual BASH is scheduled for Friday, June 6, 2014!

Dog Tag yourself into free BASH Tickets!

As you hopefully know by now, we are celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the BASH tomorrow evening. One of the great traditions of The BASH has been the "dog tag" (compliments of Tri-Metal Industries, Inc.) our guests receive each year. As you can see, The Colonel is quite proud of his collection:

Actually, these dog tags are from Thomas Latona, one of 
our Clement Trustees

So, how extensive is YOUR BASH dog tag collection? The first five people to tweet us @RedCrossBASH a picture of themselves with dog tags from five or more years of The BASH --or bring their collection to our 786 Delaware Avenue headquarters between 9am-5pm Friday--will win their choice of either a pair of General Admission tickets to #BASH2013 OR (if you already have tickets) a free BASH t-shirt. Good luck, and we'll see you here tomorrow night!

Celebrate Safely This Memorial Day

These are busy times for us. Of course, our hearts go out to the people of Moore, OK and everyone affected by this week's devastating tornadoes. The Red Cross relief efforts will continue throughout the holiday weekend and the days and weeks ahead.

Here in Western New York, we're also getting ready for the 15th Anniversary of The BASH, which believe it or not is two weeks from today. During your long holiday weekend, take a look at some of the great auction items that will be up for bid this year, and then get your tickets for the party of the summer!

Of course, many people consider Memorial Day Weekend to be the unofficial kickoff to summer. Thousands of people will be hitting the roads, firing up the grills, and hitting the water (as hard as that may be to believe with our temperatures in the 40s right now). Here's some safety tips everyone can follow not just this weekend, but throughout the summer months ahead!

DRIVE SAFELY With more people on the roads, it’s important to drive safely. Be well rested and alert, use seat belts, observe speed limits and follow the rules of the road. If plans include drinking alcohol, designate a driver who won’t drink. Other tips for a safe trip include:

• Give one’s full attention to the road.  Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
• Don’t follow another vehicle too closely.
• Use caution in work zones.
• Make frequent stops. 
• Clean the vehicle’s lights and windows to help the driver see, especially at night.
• Turn the headlights on as dusk approaches, or during inclement weather. Don’t overdrive the headlights. 

GRILLING SAFETY The Red Cross offers these tips to stay safe while cooking those tasty cookout treats:

Ombudsman volunteer Ray Boehm safely works the grill
with fellow volunteers at a recent recognition picnic.

• Never grill indoors – not in the house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use, and make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
• Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
• Keep the chef safe by using the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill.
• Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
• Be ready to close the lid and turn off the grill to cut off the fuel if necessary.
• Keep a fireproof pan under the grill to catch any falling ash or grease.
• Trim excess fat from meat to avoid flare-ups.
• Wash one’s hands in hot soapy water before preparing food, after touching raw meat and after any interruptions such as using the bathroom, handling pets, stopping to do something with children.

SWIMMING SAFETY Learning to swim is one of the best steps someone can take to be safe around water. People can contact their local Red Cross chapter and learn how to swim as well as get the facts about water safety, home pool safety, first aid and CPR classes. Other swimming safety tips include:

• Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
• Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
• Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
• Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit.
• Know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. 

POOL SAFETY It’s important to constantly supervise children when they are near water, and in WNY we've already seen an unfortunate example of the dangers this spring. Never leave a young child unattended near water, and do not trust a child’s life to another child; teach children to always ask permission to go near water. Avoid distractions when supervising children around water. If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability. 

The Red Cross and National Swimming Pool Foundation® (NSPF) have developed an online safety course for pool and hot tub owners. Home Pool Essentials helps people understand the risks of pool ownership, how to maintain a safer and cleaner pool, what safety equipment is appropriate, how to prevent pool and hot tub entrapment hazards, and how to respond to an emergency.

DOWNLOAD FIRST AID APP Another thing people can do is download the free Red Cross first aid app which puts expert advice for everyday emergency at someone’s fingertips. The free app is available for direct download from the Apple or Google Play for Android app stores.

The BASH to Celebrate 15th Anniversary June 7

Tickets for “Buffalo’s Best Annual Fundraiser” on sale now

This party is going to be big! The BASH is celebrating its 15^th Anniversary on Friday, June 7, and tickets for this one-of-a-kind, military-themed fundraiser are available now at www.redcrossbash.org.

Over 4,000 people will wear their best military gear to the American Red Cross headquarters at 786 Delaware Avenue to enjoy food and drink from some of the area’s best restaurants while dancing the night away to the music of Signature Entertainment’s DJs and a live performance by the one and only Lance Diamond. BASH*2013 guests will also have the opportunity to bid on dozens of unique auction items donated by members of the Western New York community, including vacations, original works of art, jewelry and much more. All proceeds from The BASH stay right here to support the American Red Cross, Serving Erie & Niagara Counties’ mission of preventing, preparing for and responding to disaster in Western New York. Last year, BASH*2012 raised over $360,000 to support Red Cross Emergency Services.

BASH*2013 General Admission tickets are available for purchase online at www.redcrossbash.org. Each $75 ticket comes with two free drink tickets and all the food you can eat. For an even better deal, a limited number raffle tickets are available by calling (716) 878-2235. For $100, you get two General Admission tickets plus the chance to win $10,000, $5,000, or $2,500 in the BASH Raffle. Details on how to purchase raffle tickets, receive VIP benefits by becoming a BASH sponsor and how to purchase a special edition BASH t-shirt are also available at www.redcrossbash.org.

 

The BASH has been named “Buffalo’s Best Annual Fundraiser” by Artvoice five times, and this year’s 15^th Anniversary celebration will be better than ever. This party is big, but tickets are limited so get yours now and make sure you’re not shut out. Follow us on Twitter @redcrossBASH and www.facebook.com/buffaloredcrossbash for the latest on The Party of the Summer!

Intern at "The Party of the Summer!!"

If you're a college student looking for an internship this semester--or you know someone fitting that description--have we got an offer for you! Check it out, and take some time this weekend to send in your resume!

American Red Cross, Serving Erie and Niagara Counties
JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:           Development Internship

DEPARTMENT:   Development

DATE:                    January 2013

REPORTS TO:      Emily Shafer, Development Associate

MAIN FUNCTION:  The Development Intern will work with the Development Team to organize and execute various special events.  The intern will participate in all aspects of said special events including, but not limited to: silent and ticket auctions; gift processing; data entry; donor recognition; and event logistics.

                                                          

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

This is past BASH intern Eliza on the right. Can you think
of another internship that looks like this much fun?
Neither can we!

1.       Work with Development Staff on gift                             procurement and processing

a.   Assist with solicitation process, including written and verbal requests

b.   Assist with auction item processing through Excel and Raiser’s Edge

c.   Assist in the implementation and execution of gift gathering parties and cultivation events

2.       Assist with event logistics

a.    Participate in logistics-based meetings with Red Cross personnel, representatives from In Any Event WNY and leadership volunteers

b.   Wrapping, packaging, organizing and labeling BASH auction items

c.    Event set-up and break down

3.        Other duties as assigned

a.    Able to work additional and non-traditional hours as needed

b.    Assist in organizing and coordinating auction pick-ups

c.    Adhere to the Donor Bill of Rights, Gift Acceptance Policy and uphold the highest ethics and confidentiality of donors and their relation to the Red Cross

                                           

QUALIFICATIONS:  A sophomore or junior college student with course work focused on: Communication Studies, Public Relations, Business Management, Marketing, Hospitality or other related fields.  Proficient in Word and Excel.  Strong written and verbal communication skills.  Good organizational ability and inter-personal skills. Must possess ability to manage projects in an efficient manner, with a focus on detail oriented work.  Must wear professional attire as identified by the American Red Cross dress code policy.  Reliable transportation required and the ability to stay on until June 14, 2013.

LENGTH OF APPOINTMENT:  February 2013 – June 2013

TIME COMMITMENT:  Minimum of thirteen (13) hours per week.

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES:  Develop fundraising, cultivation, stewardship and event-planning skills.  Learn to participate as a member of a revenue-generating team.

TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter, resume and writing sample to emily.shafer@redcross.org with the subject line of Development Internship. 

Make sure your summer story doesn't turn into a tragedy

Summer doesn't officially begin until Wednesday, but we all know the season is already in full swing, considering the unofficial summer kickoff in Western New York, The BASH, took place over two weeks ago. Now, as schools let out (my son finishes Kindergarten tomorrow!!) with temperatures predicted to be in the high 80's or even the 90's much of this week, many people will be hitting the pools to stay cool over the next few months.

Already, there are two stories in local media today about the dangers that water can present. Thankfully, the first of those stories has a happy ending. Because this mother had taken the time to learn CPR, she was able to revive her daughter after she was found unconscious in a pool, and that little girl is now hospitalized for what are reported to be precautionary reasons. We love to hear stories with happy endings like this, which is why we are thankful to Channel 7 and YNN for giving us the opportunity to discuss the importance CPR/AED, First Aid and water safety training today.

Unfortunately, not every story ends this well. Also in the news today is the story of a man whose body was pulled from the Erie Canal after he reportedly jumped in to cool off and never resurfaced. As summer begins, it's important to remember that not every body of water is as inviting as it appears. Fast moving currents and sudden dropoffs that can change water depth can occur sometimes even in what appears to be shallow water. We're surrounded by Great Lakes and several rivers and streams, but you should only swim in areas that are designated for swimming and supervised by lifeguards, and make sure to keep in mind your limitations and the abilities of everyone swimming with you.

Even if you take all the proper precautions for swimming in lakes, rivers, streams or in the neighborhood pool, an emergency can still take place. Knowing CPR can make the difference between life and death, so please take the time to sign up for a training class (and/or water safety courses!) so you are prepared should a situation occur. Let's work together to make sure this summer is filled with fun stories instead of tragic endings!

The Colonel thanks you!

If it feels like it's been a while since we've posted anything new, well, we've been a little busy around here lately. It takes an army of staff, volunteers and supporters hours upon hours of work to put together a party for over 4,000 of our closest friends! But when it goes off as successfully as BASH*2012 did, it's all worth it in the end!

We don't call it "The Party of the Summer"
for nothing!!

Friday wasn't the most inviting day weather-wise. But under orders from The Colonel, our staff and volunteers braved the raindrops to get everything up and ready, and the large tents kept our guests happy and dry throughout the event. In fact, even though the final numbers aren't in yet, it looks like BASH*2012 was a record breaker for us!!

Now, if you've never been to a BASH, it's a little hard to describe. We'll start with the people--over 4,000 of them, all dressed in their best military gear. Many of them stopped in our auction tent to bid on one-of-a-kind items including trips, sports memorabilia, even a keg-o-rator!

Lance!!

Then there's the food. Western New York's best restaurants, serving up enough delicious treats to feed an army. Oh yeah, there's a little something to drink, too. Which really gets people in the mood for some dancing, so it's a good thing that the best DJ's in the business, Signature Entertainment, were there to get the party hopping. But if live music is more your thing, the one and only Lance Diamond entertained the crowd as only Lance can.

We always knew this was a
Red Carpet event!

The only break in the music was for the raffle, which was probably OK with everyone, since there was a chance they could walk away with up to $10,000. The names and numbers were called before Lance took back to the stage, congrats to this year's winners!! Just before midnight, the DJ's wrapped up this year's party with "Last Dance", and it was time to go home. Pictures of The BASH speak a thousand words, and there's photo galleries from the event up now on Channel 7's website and buffalo.com. Plus, we'll be posting hundreds of professional photos on our Facebook page in the coming weeks.

The Colonel says, "See you June 7, 2013!"

There's so much happening at BASH, it's hard to put it all in to one story. We didn't even get into the Step & Repeat "red carpet" photo op, or the chance to win a diamond from a gumball machine. But there is one truly important thing left to mention--why we throw this party in to first place. The previous weekend, our Disaster Action Team responded to seven fires in the City of Buffalo, providing food, clothing, shelter and support to 45 people with nowhere else to turn. We're only able to be there for our neighbors in need because of the support of the Western New York community and the money raised through The BASH.

This party is made possible not only thanks to our amazing staff and volunteers, but also the support of the business community. Now that BASH*2012 is history, The Colonel thanks all of our sponsors and supporters, and hopes you'll take the time to support them in return. And he is issuing some new marching orders: "Save the date: June 7th, 2013. Be there as we make our 15th annual BASH the biggest and best yet!!"

Good times, for a good cause

These are busy days in our Development office, as we gear up for multiple events over the next several days. It all starts tomorrow, with the 21st Annual Reverse Draw & Dinner, when dozens of Red Cross supporters from Niagara County will gather at the Seneca Niagara Casino for food, music and the chance to win up to $3,000 by being the last number draw during this unique raffle.

Just over two weeks later, over 4,000 of our closest friends will be marching on Red Cross headquarters in their best military gear for BASH*2012 on June 1st. Food and drink from some of WNY's finest restaurants, the music from the DJ's of Signature Entertainment and a live performance by the one and only Lance Diamond, the opportunity to bid on auction items from trips to jewelry to sports memorabilia and more, the chance to win up to $10,000 in the BASH raffle...There's a reason The BASH is a finalist to win Best Annual Fundraiser for a sixth consecutive year at Artvoice's Best of Buffalo awards tonight!

Then on June 7th, we are proud to be the beneficiary of this year's JP Morgan Chase Corporate Challenge, as over 10,000 runners descend upon Delaware Park.

But even as we throw these amazing parties and enjoy a nice jaunt through the park, it's important to remember why we put these events on in the first place. On Friday afternoon, staff member Jose Latalladi and myself responded to the scene of two separate fires, one in the Town of Tonawanda and another on Rawlins Ave in Buffalo. Different people, different circumstances, but they all needed help.

Then, while most people were in bed on Friday night, volunteer Pete Swales left me a message that he and another DAT member would be heading to a fire on Bailey Ave. Unfortunately, Pete left another message a couple hours later that a resident in that home had passed away. Pete and his fellow DAT members were able to assist another resident on the scene, and our Disaster Mental Health team will offer counselling to him and all responders as needed.

DAT volunteer Diane Sargent on the scene of
a fire on Hill Street in Buffalo Sunday

Yesterday, our volunteers were called to Hill Street in Buffalo. It only takes one look at the damage that fire caused to know that anyone who lived there would need a place to stay, clothes to wear, and something to eat.

We spend an average of $1,100 assisting a family of four after a single-family house fire, and we respond to an average of a over a fire a day. In each of this weekend's four incidents, the Red Cross was able to provide food, clothing, shelter and support to those who lost everything in the blink of an eye, thanks to the money raised at events such as those coming up in the next few weeks. So we hope you enjoy tomorrow's Reverse Draw, the party of the summer (otherwise known as BASH) on June 1st and the Corporate Challenge six days later, and we thank you for allowing the Red Cross to always be there in times of need.

The Colonel wants you!! (Or at least your story...)

If you've been following @RedCrossBASH on Twitter or Facebook, you know that after travelling around Buffalo for the past several weeks, our friend The Colonel has arrived at Red Cross headquarters for BASH*2012. But the fact that The Colonel has finished his pre-BASH rounds does not mean your chance to win a pair of free tickets to join him here for the party of the summer is gone as well.

We throw this party every year for a reason, and now The Colonel wants to hear your Red Cross Story. So he's offering a free pair of General Admission tickets to BASH*2012 to one story-teller.

The Colonel wants to hear your story, and will have a drink
waiting for you on June 1st! Send your Red Cross Story to
joseph.bonafede@redcross.org for your chance to win!

Have our volunteers been there to help you or a loved one after a fire? If you're one of our volunteers, what makes you take that phone call in the middle of the night? Or did a deployment to regions devastated by Hurricane Katrina or last spring's storms really move you? Have one of our Ombudsman volunteers made life in the nursing home just a little better for your parents or grandparents? Did your son find out about the birth of his own child while serving overseas through our Services to Armed Forces? Why do you let us stick a needle in your arm for a blood donation, or how did that precious gift save your life or that of a family member?

These are just some examples of the many services we provide that can touch a life. Your story can help someone else learn how we may be able to assist them through the tough times, or encourage someone else to join you as a Red Cross volunteer or supporter. That is why we reserve the right to anonymously use your story in future Red Cross materials. (Yes, it's true you are submitting your story to me through email. But unless you give us express written consent to use your name or other identifying details, no one else will ever know where the story came from. Besides, if you win, we have to know how to contact you to get you your tickets!!)

Since initially launching this contest, we've received some great stories, but we're greedy and want more. So we're now giving you until Friday, May 25th to submit your story for a chance at the free tickets to BASH*2012. We'll announce the winner the following Monday. Don't be shy...click the links above and tell us how the Red Cross has helped you. The Colonel is looking forward to reading them as you inspire us to throw Buffalo's party of the summer on June 1st!

Put on your running shoes!

It's a busy time for us here at the American Red Cross, with not one, not two, but three major events scheduled over the next several weeks.

The first two are our signature events. The 21st Annual Reverse Draw is coming on May 15th at the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, where if you want the $3,000 grand prize you are hoping NOT to hear your ticket called until the end of the drawing. Get it? Reverse Draw?? It's a unique event, so don't miss it!

Of course, just two and a half weeks later, it's time to put on your best military gear for Buffalo's Best Annual Fundraiser, the BASH! Throwing a party for over 4,000 of your closest friends takes a lot of work, and preparations are in full swing.

After all that great food and drink, you may feel the need to run off some of the extra calories. The American Red Cross, Serving Erie & Niagara Counties, is proud to be the beneficiary of this year's JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challenge, scheduled for Thursday, June 7th!

You're probably familiar with the Corporate Challenge. Over 11,000 runners on teams from nearly 400 different companies running from Delaware Park to Gates Circle, then back up Delaware Avenue to the park. This year, in addition to competing for their teams in the Corporate Challenge, every one of those runners will be supporting American Red Cross Disaster Services. In addition to Buffalo, this year's JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challenge races in Rochester and Syracuse will also benefit the Red Cross Chapter's in those cities.

The American Red Cross is excited and proud to be part of such a great event. We're even putting together a team of our own! So register today, and see if you can beat the Red Cross while at the same time supporting our life-saving mission.

Help us find "The Colonel"!

Remember the "Where's Waldo" craze? People would spend hours looking at colorful pictures in large books for hidden images of a little man with a striped shirt, round glasses and a walking stick. Well, we're taking that idea to a new level this month, by rewarding your detective skills!

Know where "The Colonel" is? Tweet us @RedCrossBASH
to win free BASH*2012 tickets!

Each week throughout April, "The Colonel" from our BASH*2012 campaign (courtesy of our friends at Travers Collins!) will be taking his "kung-fu grip" to different locations in and around the City of Buffalo. We'll Tweet a picture on Monday, and first person to Tweet us back with his correct location will win a pair of General Admission tickets to BASH*2012! Of course, you have to be at least 21 years of age to win the tickets, and Red Cross employees and their families are not eligible.

This is a Twitter-only contest, so while you'll see the pictures and some details here and on Facebook, you'll need to follow @RedCrossBASH to have a chance to win. If you don't have a Twitter account, they're free and easy to set up at www.twitter.com. The conversation will continue there long after The Colonel has been found, and we'll be live-tweeting all the fun of BASH*2012 on June 1st.

We know not everyone is a fan of Twitter, so while you non-tweeters are not eligible to find The Colonel, we're still giving you a chance to win General Admission BASH tickets by sending us your Red Cross Story! And while your odds of winning are much better than, say, last week's Mega Millions lottery, you may still come up empty handed. But don't despair! Tickets to the Party of the Summer are still a great deal, and support a great cause. Just visit www.redcrossbash.org to purchase yours today.

We know where The Colonel we be June 1st, and he's hoping to see you here at BASH*2012!

BASH... the Monday after!

We're still recovering here at the Chapter after the amazing and hugely successful BASH this past Friday!! Whether you were able to make it or not, you can relive the night through some of these video and photo links below! More to come!

Photo courtesy of Buffalo.com



Buffalo.com photos

WKBW's story/video on BASH

Buffalo Rising's story/video

We'd love to hear what you thought of the event, so be sure to comment below!!

BASH or bust!

We’re well on our way to BASH here at the Buffalo Chapter! Our amazing volunteers have come together to help us put up our tents, hang netting, set up tables, color code wrist bands, divvy up drink tickets and organize raffle baskets, and it’s really starting to pay off!!

If you have the opportunity to drive by 786 Delaware Avenue, be sure to check out our amazing tents, and if it’s between the hours of 9am-5pm, feel free to stop in and buy your BASH tickets! If you aren’t able to swing by, you can see our progress and our volunteer’s amazing work in the photos above and feel free to call us at 886-7500 to order your tickets.  We hope to see you June 3rd!!

“Buffalo’s Best Annual Fundraiser” Is Friday Night!

If you've passed by 786 Delaware Avenue today, you may think that the army is setting up camp at the Red Cross Headquarters! But in reality, it just means that the party of the summer is almost here!! Preparations are now underway for the BASH*2011 this Friday, June 3rd, starting at 8pm. 

This is the 13th year for the one-of-a-kind military themed event, which was recently named “Buffalo’s Best Annual Fundraiser” by Artvoice for the fifth time.  Over 4,000 BASH attendees get dressed up in their best military gear to sample food and drink from some of Buffalo’s best restaurants, and enjoy the music of Signature Entertainment’s DJ Mike Setlock, as well as a live performance by the one and only Lance Diamond.  Guests also get the the opportunity to bid on dozens of exciting auction items donated by members of the Western New York community, including original works of art, jewelry, gift certificates, and even vacations.  All proceeds from BASH*2011 will stay right here to help the American Red Cross provide vital disaster response and preparedness education in Western New York.

The only way to get into BASH*2011 is through the purchase of a $100 BASH Raffle ticket, which comes with:

• Two tickets to the General Admission tent
• Two drinks per person
• All the food you can eat
• PLUS the chance to win $10,000, $5,000, or $2,500 in the BASH Raffle

There is also still a chance to start the party at 6pm by becoming a VIP through the group sales option, with the purchase of 15 BASH Raffle tickets earning 10 tickets to the VIP tent.

Only 1,000 total BASH Raffle tickets are being sold, and they’re going fast.  Tickets will be available each day this week at the American Red Cross Headquarters, 786 Delaware Avenue, between 9am-5pm. 

For more information on BASH*2011, visit www.redcrossbash.org.  To learn more about the services of the American Red Cross supported by the BASH, visit www.buffaloredcross.org or call the Greater Buffalo Chapter at (716) 886-7500.

The biggest BASH is in 3 days... Will you be there?

BASH is just 3 days away and we’re buckling down here at the Chapter to make sure this event is even better than last year!! We’ve got amazing restaurant sponsors, music, and best of all YOU guys attending, and we can’t wait to see it all come together. 

Tickets are still available, as are our fabulous t-shirts ($10.00/shirt), but they’re going FAST!!! So be sure to stop by Red Cross Headquarters, 9am-5pm until Friday, June 3rd to pick yours up.  And while you're here, you'll get to see our tents going up and some of the other exciting BASH week events!!

All proceeds go towards the disaster preparedness education and response right here in WNY, so while you’re here having a great time on June 3^rd, you can also feel great knowing that it’s all for a good cause… and that you have a chance to win $10,000, $5,000, and $2,500!! 

AND don’t forget about the raffle!! We have some amazing items donated from some fabulous shops, check them out here, and get ready to bid!!

For more information about this event, visit us online at www.redcrossbash.org or call us at 716-886-7500.

We hope to see you there!!

Our birthday's coming!

It’s our birthday tomorrow!! Do you know how the American Red Cross will be?

a.       210 years old

b.      182 years old

c.       100 years old

d.      130 years old

And the answer is… D, 130 years old!

We’ve been pretty busy throughout those years, but it all started when Clara Barton and a circle of acquaintances founded the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C. on May 21, 1881. She had heard of the Swiss-inspired International Red Cross Movement while visiting Europe following the Civil War and when she returned home, she campaigned for an American Red Cross society and for ratification of the Geneva Convention protecting the war-injured, which the United States ratified in 1882.

To learn more about everything that we’ve accomplished over the past 130 years… click here!

To help us celebrate, you can donate a present to our BASH auction!  All proceeds stay right here in WNY, so your donation will help us continue to do our good work for another 130 years.

If interested, you can call Emily here at the Chapter at 878.2374 or e-mail her at shafere@usa.redcross.org. 

To learn more about the BASH, visit our BASH website or check us out on Facebook!

Hip hip, hoorah!

Not one, not two, not three and not four… but FIVE! That’s right Buffalo; you’ve voted BASH the Best Annual Fundraiser for Artvoice’s Best of Buffalo FIVE times!!

For those of you who don’t know what BASH or Artvoice’s Best of Buffalo is, let us elaborate so that you can understand why we’re so darn excited!

Every year, Artvoice puts out a survey that allows anyone and everyone vote on what they like best in specific categories, i.e. Best Annual Fundraiser, Best Bagel, Best Bookstore, Best Open Mic, Best Painter, and Best Bar Only You Know About.

That’s a lot of categories! And, frankly I often have a hard time thinking of places to vote for each year, aside from our fabulous BASH of course, but Buffalo has honored us again with this Best of Title, and with the fierce competition with other Buffalo fundraisers, we couldn’t be prouder or happier!

Now, that’s all well and good, but for anyone that hasn’t been to BASH, you might be wondering… what the heck is this BASH thing, why is it winning awards, and how the heck do I get in?!

Well, let me start by saying, BASH is one of the biggest and best parties in Buffalo in the summer, and pretty much all year long! Over 4,000 people come together, to dance, drink, bid on some of amazing auction items, and be merry while enjoying one-of-a-kind military themed tents and more.

And the greatest part? All proceeds of the event stay right here in WNY to help with the American Red Cross’ disaster relief efforts!! 

When is the BASH?

·         Friday June 3^rd, 8:00pm-midnight

How do I get in?

The ONLY way to get into this event is through our BASH raffle.

·         1 raffle ticket/$100.00 gets you:

o   2 general admission tickets with admission at 8:00pm

o   2 drinks/person

o   All the fabulous food you can eat from our restaurant sponsors

o   PLUS the chance to win $10,000, $5,000 or $2,500!

Not good enough for you? Maybe you’re VIP worthy…

VIP's start the party at 6:00pm and get to enjoy the exclusive VIP tent with complimentary cocktails and even more amazing Buffalo food!

·         15 raffle tickets for $1,500 gets you 10 VIP tickets

·         20 raffle tickets for $2,000 gets you 13 VIP tickets

·         25 raffle tickets for $2,500 gets you 16 VIP tickets

·         30 raffle tickets for $3,000 gets you 20 VIP tickets

·         35 raffle tickets for $3,500 gets you 22 VIP tickets

·         40 raffle tickets for $4,000 gets you 24 VIP tickets

·         45 raffle tickets for $4,500 gets you 26 VIP tickets

·         50 raffle tickets for $5,000 gets you 30 VIP tickets

So, the more raffle tickets you buy, the more friends you can invite to be VIPs too!!

As you can see, we’re very excited for this upcoming event, and even more excited that all of you out there have recognized how much hard work we put into this amazing event by voting us the Best Annual Fundraiser.  We’re counting down the days to celebrate this victory and raise even more money for disaster relief here in WNY, and we hope to see you June 3^rd to celebrate with us!

Have some questions about tickets or interested in purchasing some? Call Heather at 716.878.2396 or e-mail her at filipowiczh@usa.redcross.org.

Interested in learning more about the BASH auction or donating an item? Call Emily at 716.878.2374 or e-mail her at shafere@usa.redcross.org.

Want your company to become a sponsor of BASH? Call Jerilyn at 716.878.2383 or e-mail her at hickeyje@usa.redcross.org.

Do you want to you or your company, organization, or school to volunteer for BASH? Call Kara at 716.878.2235 or e-mail her at hitek@usa.redcross.org.