SARASOTA, FLA. (September 30, 2010) – “Toto; I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” No, it’s Sarasota! On November 20th, the grand ballroom of the Hyatt, Sarasota will be transformed into “Over the Rainbow.” The annual Boys & Girls Clubs’ Dream Makers Ball will be held on November 20, 2010 and the theme of this year’s gala is “Over the Rainbow.” Not only will the evening itself be magical, modern technological elements used to promote the event virtually transport the viewer “Over the Rainbow.”The Dream Makers Ball web site features live characters who act as a personal guide through the web site; Facebook has its own mascot, “Tin Man;” and the printed invitation takes viewers to the website via Microsoft tags for Smart Phones and IPhones.
Sarasota-based interactive agency Captivation Media, along with their partner, Mars Vision Productions collaborated to develop the Dream Makers Ball website. This heavily video-driven website features innovative elements and movie-like scripts. The site also facilitates social media engagements through Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. “Our companies were very excited for the opportunity to assist in the development of the DMB website. This type of new media platform is a Dream Makers Ball first, and we look forward to sharing it with internet visitors,” says Jim Martin, President of Captivation Media. Additionally, the Boys & Girls Club Dream Makers Ball committee has utilized Facebook to market a virtual mascot, “Tin Man,” who is making guest appearances all over town and specifically at sponsors’ businesses. Event co-chair, Kristy Cail has spearheaded the Facebook campaign, making “Tin Man” visible all over town. She and her husband, Tom Cail are co-chairs, and the event is expected to surpass all previous galas both financially and in attendance.
Another promotional design element of the “Over the Rainbow” event is the use of Microsoft tags in the printed invitation. The tags work to transform the printed invitation to the internet site featuring Club Members as live web characters. Grapevine Communications donated all the design services of Dream Makers Ball, creating the logo, evites and invitation.
For more information about Dream Makers Ball, visit www.dreammakersball.com or email Fran Levinson at flevinson(at)boysandgirlsclubs.com. You may also call BGCSC directly at (941) 366-3911, ext.126.
About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County have played an integral role in the Sarasota County community for more than 40 years, providing daily programs and services to thousands of young people. The Mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
