Cruisin Fundraiser Raises More than $85,000
Event Chair Bobbie Fesler, Steel Magnolia Members Sue DeRosa, Liz Krummell, Joan Venditozzi, Hilda Sanchez, Stephanie Davis and Denise Dahlhausen Kneeling Gary Lee Wolf
Cruisin’ on a Sunday Afternoon Raises $75,000 to Support Children With Disabilities
A sell-out crowd of more than 250 braved the blistering hot weather to go “Cruisin’” with the Steel Magnolias.
The group’s Aug. 15 event, which awed guests with the tremendous collection of classic cars and memorabilia in the private collection, raised more than $75,000.
There were 120 or so beautiful vintage cars, a stunning collection that included makes and models from mob mobiles to muscle cars. The Americana memorabilia was also spectacular. It included a bevy of items from bygone eras: radios, clocks, early tiny screened televisions, beautiful art deco pieces, vintage furniture-radios, most of which we’ve only seen in old-time movies.
It was a memorable experience.
In keeping with the milieu, the event also featured roller-skating waitresses, decked out in 1940s-era frocks and hairdos.
As guests perused the silent auction items, the skaters passed trays of delectable hors d’oeuvres and beverages, and were on the ready throughout the evening. The ice cream stand was very popular, as was the beverage bar. A scrumptious “period” menu was delicious, and was served on checkered tablecloths with car motif centerpieces (created by members). The menu choice was meatloaf or fried chicken, with peach dessert. Delightful music kept the energy flowing.
Stramski Center Medical Director Dr. Gary Feldman expressed appreciation of the audience and spoke of the extraordinary needs of the children with developmental delays, behavioral and learning challenges, and other special needs. He stressed the importance of the support of the Steel Magnolias.
Dynamic Randy Gordon, meanwhile, coaxed more than $34,000 from the exuberant crowd as auctioneer.Susan Hill was determined to win the bid for a weekend getaway in Monterrey. Linda and Allen Rahn had the high bid for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach package. Judy and Don Black, along with Barbara and Ned Gaylord, will share a fabulous party at Keesal Young & Logan. Tickets to USC vs UCLA athletic competitions were snapped up by John and Liz Krummell and Katherine Bowser.
Some would say Randy saved the best for last: An adorable 9-week-old Micro Golden Doodle named Maggie (for Steel Magnolias) went home with Anne Emigh and her granddaughter Madi, who made the winning bid for Maggie’s heart during the very lively bidding competition.
The silent auction highlights, meanwhile, included “Driving the Coast,” an original painting created by Dr. Pal from the Stramski Center, going to event chair Bobbie Fesler, and the Magnolia Golf Tournament (on Oct. 25) package getting snapped up by Craig Vansickle.
Seen at the scene: President Denise Dahlhausen, Bobbie Fesler, Hilda Sanchez, Joan Venditozzi, Anthony Gagliardi, Gary Lee Wolf and Carl Lee, Sue De Rosa, Marianne Gastelum, Claire and Mark Guillen, Pam Luckey, Loree Scarborough and Dennis McConkey, Joan Knight, Marlene Temple, Janis and Michael Krantz, Bob and Mary Alice Braly, Cookie Braude and Greg Perrault, Clyde and Susan Kendzierski, Paul Diego, Stephanie Davis, Lynn and Jack Gesner, Richard Brown and Katherine Keesal, Dane and Neale Hickerson, Suzanne and Doyle Powell, Cathy and Tom Wieder, Jorene and Jim Hankla, Fay Abed, Diana and David Eastman, Theresa and Al Brunella, Carmen and David Bubar, Larry Poe and Patty Godber, Paul and Shannon Treichel, Glenna and Peter Nabuda, Terry and Donna Evans, Carolyn and John Faber, Lorie Merrill, Shari and Larry Nemirow, Karen and Rob Owens, Elaine Goodnoe, Surina Godfrey, Bob and Betsy Metcalfe, Al Israel, Bonnie Scott, Norma Marter.
https://www.presstelegram.com/2021/08/22/shirley-wild-steel-magnolias-raises-75000-to-support-children-with-disabilities/
