The third annual Jewel of the Sea Reef Ball will be held at the Sands Seafood Bar and Grill on July 31st, from 6:30pm -10:30pm. The Sands, synonymous with seafood, has graciously donated the venue and staff for this fundraiser. "We are proud and privileged to host this great event," said Mark Rossi, co- owner of the Sands. Co-owner Tim Gallagher states: "Reef Relief has accomplished a great deal for our community and the environment as a whole, we look forward to a wonderful evening while raising funds for Reef Relief."

The event is the grand finale of Reef Awareness Week July 25-31, designed to increase awareness and support for protecting coral reefs during the busy sport lobster days.

This grand evening of dining and dancing is a community based effort, with all food, beverages and silent auction items donated by local and national distributors. The Sand's Chef Tracey Banks is creating an exciting menu with these donations.

"The groundswell support we have for this event is overwhelming," said Cheryl Hare, Jewel of the Sea Dinner Chair, "I know we will have a fun-filled event that will be a great success."

There are a variety of sponsorship packages available which include dinner tickets for 2-10 people. Tables of 10 can be purchased for $750.00 and individual tickets are $80.00 per person by reservation only. All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Any individual or business that would like to get involved with Reef Awareness Week and/or the Jewel of the Sea Reef Ball can contact Reef Relief at 305-294-3100 or stop by Reef Relief headquarters at the Historic Seaport at the foot of William Street. Interested contributors can email Deevon Quirolo at deevon@bellsouth.net or Cheryl Hare at cheryl@knotink.com or 917-865-7902.

Jewel of the Sea Reef Ball Committee
From left: Tim Gallagher, co-owner, Sand's Seafood Bar & Grill; Cheryl Hare, Jewel of the Sea Reef Ball Dinner Chair; Sherry Russo, Clear Channel; and Mark Rossi, co-owner Sand's Seafood Bar & Grill.

Photo: Caldwell Marketing & Advertising/knotink.com