Leapin’ lizards! GeckFest Gala a colorful affair

Was it a Gecko convention or invasion that happened upon Bradenton last Saturday night at the Courtyard by Marriott Riverfront? What we are certain of, is that the walls of Bradenton’s business and arts communities will be “climbing” with the 6-foot critters for years to come.

The Bradenton GeckoFest continued its biennial tradition which included a preview party of the 35 featured geckos at Rossi Park in April, and then concluded with a festive Gala and Auction. Premier sponsor was ... you guessed it ... GEICO.

Guests enjoyed early evening cocktails as they strolled the gardens and delighted in the array of distinctly unique geckos. Varied themes included: sports (Batter Up by January Eldred); music (Elvis in the Gecko by Karen Semon); military (Evan’s Gecko by Cecelia Eaton); and people (Hernando De Gecko by Wende Wilkerson).

The party moved indoors for an elegant dinner served in the Rio Vista Ballroom with a live auction presented by auctioneer John Vita. Proceeds will be directed back into Bradenton’s arts community and the visual arts departments of our local public schools.

A lovely evening was had by all. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the GeckoFest 2010 committee chaired by Jayne Kocher with her team: Rita Bernot, Brynne Anne Besio, Kathleen Cucci, Cassandra Holmes, Laura McKeithen, Vickie Moore, Ann Marie Nicholas, Carla Nierman, Anna Pohl, Sarah Schweiger, Diane Shelly, Cathy Slusser, Kevin Webb, Susan Wilcox and Janine Witham.