They were Andrew Elder, who works for Happy Software, who was willing to teach guitar lessons to the highest bidder, and Christopher Defibaugh, health and wellness director of the YMCA of Saratoga Wilton Branch, who offered three personal training sessions to the winning bidder. Two other gentlemen were up for bids, but not for a date. Also, Jim Mella, a young retiree who spends his days golfing, traveling and betting at the track Anthony Pharo, who owns his own computer company, but loves ballroom dancing Sam Bottini, Gaffney’s bartender and of course, Sam the Bugler, who claims his last name is Bugler. The bachelors were Dylan Endell, a musician and Hattie’s bartender John Gray, news anchor of Fox 23 News and a weekly columnist for The Saratogian, one of the day’s sponsors Adam Menella, a naval lieutenant dressed in his striking white uniform and Hugh Brown, a Realtor for REMAX. To get the bidders in the mood, Sam the Bugler, back by popular demand, played a few bars from of “Taking a Chance on Love.” What fun! As each man explained what kind a date he had to offer, the women clapped and sighed for their favorites. Many young ladies stood on the sidelines as each bachelor was introduced by Jodie Evans, an SOS volunteer. Without a doubt, one of the highlights of the day was auctioning off nine handsome bachelors.

A tray filled with cookies, scones and tea cakes were the tasty treats. Kenyon Hill Catering’s staff passed mini sesame chicken cups followed by light fare that included romaine and arugula salad and tea sandwiches. Guests sipped complimentary wines, Sangria punch and Saratoga Water and listened to music by the talented Matt McCabe and Friends before the luncheon was served. It went for $600 to an unnamed lady, who wanted to give it as a gift. One of the items was an autographed guitar by Steven Van Zandt, a guitarist with Bruce Springsteen. Many of the women took advantage of pampering services, while others bid on silent auction items. “By having ‘One Fine Day,’ you’re ensuring others will, too,” said Nancy Lamb Breen, executive director of SOS. SOS’s mission is to provide shelter, advocacy and referral services for the homeless and those at risk of homelessness. When Tuesday morning rolled around, it looked like anything but “One Fine Day.” But lo and behold, the sun began to shine just before a record crowd of 250 arrived at Union Gables B&B for the Shelters of Saratoga benefit garden party.

S.O.S. by Arabella Faith