The Steel Magnolias mission is to provide support for the Stramski Developmental Center for Children at Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach. This year their Eleventh Annual Gala, the major fund raiser for the Center was held on September 11th at the Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach.
Remembering the events of 9/11, a memorable date in American history, it was used to pay tribute to our First Responders who protect the Long Beach Community. Special guests for the evening were Police Chief Jim McDonnell of the Long Beach Police Department and Fire Chief Alan Patalano of the Long Beach Fire Department. Attendees had the opportunity to personally thank them for their fine leadership and for the work of the officers and firefighters of respective departments who give faithful service to our community 24/7,365 days of a year.
A moment of silence was held as the opening ceremony, providing a time of reflection for the lives lost and the heroism of the First Responders who sacrificed so much for the safety of others.
As the guests stepped from their cars they were greeting by pianist Rob Klopfenstein and welcomed by President Joyce Krauss and progressed to a champagne reception
The beautifully lighted Pavilion area provided by St. Nick’s Lighting, highlighted the gazebo area where “Vocalogy” lead by Christine Guter. played and sang for the entertainment of the party goers. A new concept for the Gala was the sale of 12 parties, planned, decorated and designed by members, offered for sale to guests to be held at mutually agreed upon dates. The concept conceived by Anthony Gagliardi had all guests crowded around tables featuring the party themes such as the Joker is Wild, an Evening in Provance, tickets to TV shows, and a formal romantic dinner for two, a perfect setting for a special anniversary.
During dinner a Live Auction was held featuring special trips and a chance to ride in the Pace Car for the 2011 Grand Prix. Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Terry Krauss and Auctioneer was John Kunkle. Gala Chairman Patti Lott and her Assistant Linda Beaver were in charge of the wonderful event with Barbara Hall and Judie Johnsen. To conclude the evening a drawing was held for a Toyota Sienna which had been donated by the Toyota Motor Car Company.
All proceeds from this event are dedicated to the Stramski Developmental Center Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach.
Former
Governor George and Gloria Deukmejian, Beverly O’Neill, Nancy Gaines, Mary Alice and Bob Braly, Eline and Jack Fudge, Judy McNulty Black and Don Black, Memorial Medical Center Foundation
President Jim Normandin with Peggy, Phil and Jeannie Jones, Carolyn and John Faber, Dawn and Robert McKenna, Bob and Debbie Autrey, Karen and Ryan Autrey, Bill and Vici Schonlau, Gail and Jim Gray, Jorene and Jim Hankla, Mari Hooper, Shirley Autrey with Carl Martin, Alan Robb, Guadalupe Padilla, Dr. Larry Drum and Joanne, Jim Ezell and Frances Lyon.
Gala Chairman Patti Lott
was assisted by Linda Beaver (with John), Barbara Hall (with Don), Judie Johnsen, Lorie Merrill (with Paul), Elaine Goodnoe (with Gerald), and Loree Scarborough (with Dennis McConkey).
