A FUNdraiser That Truly Rocked

By Michael NovillaNews
2016 09-17 Arts Conservatory For Teens Fundraiser at NOVA 535

There’s something incredibly magical within the walls of the 1920 built, historic venue NOVA 535, in gorgeous Downtown St. Pete. Whether it is a wedding, birthday party, award show, live performance or anything in between, one thing is for certain: guests are always smiling and having a good time. It wasn’t any different on Saturday, September 17, 2016 when The Burg Exchange presented Wine Down For Youth Advocacy, an annual fundraiser benefiting Arts Conservatory For Teens (ACT).
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ACT is a local St. Petersburg, Florida non-profit organization whose mission is to educate, empower and enrich the lives of youth and teens through arts education.

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The theme was “Golden Age of Hollywood” and guests were encouraged to play the part as they enjoyed the wine tasting (and NOVA’s full liquor bar) and the live show. Boy did some come dressed to impress!

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State Director of Child Welfare, Zackary Gibson, attended the event and showed up looking quite dapper with a handsome grin on his face all evening long.

 

Also there supporting the event was Tony Michaelides, my dear friend and former publicist to huge rock stars like David Bowie (this man has great stories, check out his book and read DowntownStPete.com’s feature on him). Tony is also an active member of Entrepreneur Social Club. Meetings are every Thursday night 6 to 8pm, most always at NOVA 535. Pop in sometime to this productive and fun group!

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Tony Michaelides and Mary Macrides happily support the ACT fundraiser

 

Corey Dylan, radio host and personality, hosted this special night of entertainment. Throughout the evening there were various youth performers from ACT who showcased their musical talents. These teens may just be getting started now, but they surely impressed the crowd. It truly is amazing to see young talent have the opportunity to follow their dreams thanks to Arts Conservatory For Teens!

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Corey Dylan, radio personality, excited about the “Grammy” she received from the ACT organization that evening for hosting the show!

 

Finally, The Ries Brothers, a nationally touring duo, knocked everyone’s socks off with their toe-tappin’ tunes. These two bros and their “momager” are on the road to absolute success. They write their own original music, influenced by their love of rock, blues, funk and reggae. These brothers are so impressive!

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One of ACT’s founders, Alexander Harris, surprised us all when he grabbed the mic and treated the crowd to a performance of his own.

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A special thanks to Scott Allen and the rest of the awesome organizers at The Burg Exchange for bringing this special event to NOVA 535!

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ACT Founder, Alex Harris with the stunning Donna Wilson and Scott Allen of the Burg Exchange.

Wine Down For Youth Advocacy was another successful and beautiful event at unique venue in Downtown St. Pete, NOVA 535! If you are interested in hosting your occasion with us, let us create a 5-star event for you – the NOVA way! Get started online, email Sales(at)nova535.com or call/text us at 949-873-6682.

While NOVA 535’s owner, Michael Novilla, was out of town, I (Erika Cain) was more than happy to wear Mike’s hat and assist in running this event. Enjoy the photos I took from the evening and check out our upcoming events open to the public.