Library Foundation presents Grape Expectations Gala
The Long Beach Public Library Foundation celebrated its 20th Annual Grape Expectations gala on Oct. 1 at the Billie Jean King Main Library. An impressive turnout of almost 450 attendees raised more than $500,000.
The hallmark event benefits the foundation, whose mission is to support and advocate for the 12 Long Beach public libraries.
Guests mingled and were seated in the transformed terrace of the Billie Jean King Main Library. The warm atmosphere complemented the winetasting and auction experience and the gourmet dinner, with wine pairings from The Wine Country.
The highlight was the “recognition of two outstanding individuals for their remarkable contributions to society,” said Veronica Garcia Dávalos, LBPLF's executive director and CEO. “We were thrilled to honor Billie Jean King and Skip Keesal at Grape Expectations for their remarkable achievements and tireless commitment to creating positive change.
“Their influence,” she added, “transcends their respective fields and continues to serve as an inspiration to all.”
Billie Jean King was the recipient of The Library Leadership Award, presented by Cathy Jacobson, retired director of tennis for Long Beach.
“She is leaving a lasting impact on the city where she grew up,” Jacobson said of the tennis icon, establishing her as a true inspiration and role model. Fifty years after the groundbreaking `Battle of the Sexes,' her dedication to empowerment and equality remains steadfast.”
The Durnin Family Award was presented to Skip Keesal, partner at Keesal, Young & Logan, by Margaret and Dr. Charles Durnin, highlighting his generous and longtime support of the annual gala and library programs, and for his numerous contributions to the betterment of Long Beach.
As the live auction and live ask, which raised more than $132,000, began, foundation Board of Directors President Ryan Ballard took the stage and reminded the crowd that “the city's role in funding our local libraries is enhanced by the support the foundation provides — support for materials and programs that provide free resources for all citizens.
“The funds raised will be instrumental in supporting programs and enhancements that might not otherwise be available at the libraries,” he added.
Presenting sponsors were: Marathon Petroleum Company and the Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative.
Mayor Rex Richardson, state Sen. Lena Gonzalez, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna, Councilmembers Suely Saro and Joni Ricks-Oddie, Long Beach City Prosecutor Doug Haubert, and Long Beach City Attorney Dawn McIntosh.
AbilityFirst
On Oct. 7, the Long Beach Center Guild's annual “Rainbows for AbilityFirst” luncheon was held at The Grand.
A fall theme was accented by beautiful assorted chrysanthemums that brightened the tables, adding a joyful aura to the occasion. President Pat
Leue welcomed the 160 or so guests.
Forty years ago, the founding guild members “saw a need to raise funds to serve the disabled participants and their families,” said Cynthia Sewak, who represented her mother, Wanda Sewak, the first guild president.
Founding members Judith McNulty Black, Ruth Blair and Shirley Wild were honored with floral gifts, created by the center's clients.
An abundance of beautiful and colorful baskets was offered, which included trips, puppy supplies, books, theater tickets, food and sweets, libations of different kinds and jewelry. A favorite table had people lining up to purchase items that the center's participants had spent many hours making, painting and wrapping. They were very excited to see how many guests were buying their creations.
A spellbinding prelude to the luncheon is the special moment that occurs when “God Bless America” is signed by Echos, interpretive song-to-sign center participants.
Master of ceremonies Chris Cristi from KABC Channel 7 introduced April Stover, the center's director of programs, who shared how the center's new remodeled extra space and new kitchen have given the participants more opportunities to learn activities to lead full and productive lives. April introduced Mary Wanous, mother of adult day program participant Zachary Wanous. She shared how the program has helped him progress in so many ways.
“He even worked with the center through Zoom,” Mary said.
Her appreciation was emotionally felt by all.
Eminent auctioneer Randy Gordon kicked off the exciting “bidding war” with a beautiful diamond necklace. More offerings included Lawry's $800 gift certificate; a shopping spree; and a Boathouse on the Bay dinner and a Duffy ride. Gordon encouraged all to help the participants to continue to benefit of the amazing activities and daily trips the Center provides. There were many shouts of joy from the winners.
The grand finale resulted in over-the-top bidding. Randy asked for everyone, “to be a center fan.” The audience responded with “all in!” So many hands went up, it was dramatic as he called out the many bid numbers. This special auction raised more $9,000. Total results are estimated to be more $80,000 raised for Ability First Center.
The audience agreed that Autumn Rainbows for Ability First was a major success. Next year's edition be on Oct. 5.
Joan Alderson, Mary Alice Braly, Bea Almada, Marie Cady-Drummond, Lynne Clarke, Gloria Deukmejian, Jill Rosenberg, Carmen Perez, Arlene Fillius, Jorene Hankla, Caroline Hansen, Mary Janssen, Kat Evans, Cindy Austin, Roxanne Korzeniowski, Pat Leue, Ellen Mathis, Deloris Mayuga, Jennifer Moore, Terri Nikoletich, Patricia Randolph, Mary Pat Sabol, Iris Schutz, Susan Short, Linda Silver, Jean Stone, Julie Toboada, Linda Toomajian, Yolanda Wallin, Sharon Young, Judy McNulty Black, Andree and Andrew Powell, and Cynthia Sewak.
attend the Grape Expectation
News of Social events with charitable purposes may be sent to Shirley Wild at spwild@verizon. net or by fax to 562-5949468. Please include a contact phone number. Send high-resolution jpeg photos, by attachment, to spwild@verizon.net and include group name and identification of individuals from left. Call Shirley at 562-594-9468 for more information.