The evening started with a Q&A session with Paul, Cynthia and Tony Franklin (from the Firm). Paul then signed autographs and had his picture taken with many of the Fender students that were in attendance. He was very generous and patient, listening and answering their questions. It was great to watch.

 

We then went into the Silent Auction area and went to see the Exhibit. It was great and set up really well! We also Johnny Cash and Steve Miller's exhibits. Paul came through and had a look around and met with alot of fans that had bought tickets for the evening.

 

They were serving drinks and hors' d'oeuvres then the presentations began. Paul recieved an award then there was a live auction which exceeded everyone's expectations. One guitar signed by Paul, including a necklace that had literally just been taken off his neck by Cynthia, went for $24,000! (yes, twenty-four thousand dollars!) Tony Franklin did most of the speaking. Other speakers included community members and Mr. Bob Heil, of Heil Sound, the microphone company.

 

Paul and Cynthia spoke for a few minutes then the student band, The Igniters, came onstage. They were amazing! All members were 12-years-old, except for the singer and only female band member, who just turned 14. They sang songs from the Pretenders, Pat Benatar and Led Zeppelin, to name a few.

 

Paul joined them for "Rock N Roll Fantasy" and an abbreviated version of "Allright Now". After the performance, Paul signed more autographs and had many photos taken for over another hour, until we left around midnight.

 

An excellent, unforgettable night!

Karen Alverez