Special Events Manager Shannon McNair takes us behind the scenes of The Rose’s annual Shrimp Boil, a nearly 40‑year tradition where fresh Gulf shrimp, auctions, raffles, and desserts turn a casual Saturday with 800 of your closest friends and family into a lifeline for breast health for women in our 45-county service area.

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Key Questions Answered

1. What is The Rose’s Shrimp Boil and how did it begin?
2. Why does the event feel more like a family reunion than a formal gala?
3. How do silent and live auctions, raffles, and kids’ activities all contribute to fundraising?
4. What food is served besides shrimp, and how do desserts and kid‑friendly options fit in?
5. How does the mobile bidding system make it easy to participate in the auction from anywhere?
6. What roles do volunteers, committee members, and staff play in making the event a success?
7. How can local businesses, families, and individuals donate items for the auction or dessert table?
8. How are tickets, tables, sponsorships, and underwriting structured so both families and companies can join?
9. Why are unrestricted dollars from this event so important for covering unexpected needs throughout the year?
10. What is new this year in terms of date, theme, and logistics, and how can people get involved?

Timestamped overview

00:00 Dorothy opens the show with the standard introduction to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts and The Rose’s mission.

00:49 Roxann welcomes Shannon and asks her to describe her role as special events manager.

01:01 Shannon explains overseeing signature events and third‑party fundraisers that support The Rose’s mission.

01:34 They introduce the Shrimp Boil as The Rose’s longest‑running and largest event, approaching its 40th year.

01:41 Shannon shares the origin story of a community‑driven boat raffle that evolved into a major annual fundraiser.

02:41 She describes the atmosphere as casual, indoors at the Pasadena Convention Center, with a family reunion feel and 600 or more attendees.

02:59 Roxann notes there is more than food involved; Shannon adds details about DJ, emcee, and auction.

03:08 Shannon outlines the silent auction: dozens of items ranging from small baskets to big experiences like trips and electric bikes.

03:48 She describes the live auction and the energy brought by the auctioneer, as well as a cash bar supported by beverage sponsors.

04:16 They detail photo booths, popcorn, kids’ games, and adult games like the liquor toss, emphasizing fun for all ages.

05:23 Shannon highlights that survivors, their families, staff, and supporters all mingle, creating generational participation.

05:36 They discuss past themes and introduce this year’s 60s‑inspired Peace, Love and The Rose theme.

05:50 Shannon encourages attendees to dress up as much or as little as they like, from flower crowns to full costumes.

06:42 Roxann asks about donating auction items; Shannon explains that anyone can contribute goods, services, or gift cards.

08:06 Shannon explains the mobile bidding system, how guests register, receive outbid alerts, and check out without long lines.

11:20 They talk about 50/50 raffles staffed by roller‑derby volunteers who sell tickets throughout the room.

12:20 Shannon describes the volunteer and committee structure behind the event, with different leaders owning specific areas like desserts, bar, and kids’ zone.

14:16 They dig into desserts: long tables of homemade and bakery‑donated treats, from sheet cakes to famous pineapple upside‑down cakes.

17:01 Shannon notes that hot dogs and kids’ meals are available for those who do not or cannot eat shrimp.

17:48 Roxann notes the date change; Shannon explains moving to August 8 this year and mentions fresh Gulf shrimp as a highlight.

18:49 Shannon outlines pricing for individual tickets, tables, and sponsorship levels, plus underwriting options for specific elements like the photo booth.

19:56 They discuss buying tickets in advance versus at the door, as well as curbside pickup and why reserved tables work best for groups.

21:41 Roxann asks how the money is used; Shannon emphasizes the importance of unrestricted funds that help ensure no woman is turned away from care.

22:21 They recap the essential details and invite listeners to attend, volunteer, or donate to support the mission.