ENCINITAS, California (Press Release) — The Women’s Auxiliary of Seacrest Village Retirement Communities held its 35th Annual Gala, “Club Seacrest,” at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines on April 13. The event was attended by nearly 300 guests and raised over $315,000 that will be used to provide charitable care to many Seacrest Village residents and to purchase a new specialized bus. “We are gratified by the continued support of the Women’s Auxiliary to serve the ever-growing San Diego senior community,” said Pam Ferris, President/CEO of Seacrest Village.
Following a champagne cocktail reception, the evening commenced with a warm welcome by Dr. Stan Pappelbaum, Chairman of the Board of Trustees who remarked how “It takes a village” to care for family, friends and residents in various stages of their lives so that they can live with independence, integrity and peace of mind. Dr. Pappelbaum thanked everyone for their support of Seacrest Village and gave special recognition to the Board of Trustees and Executive staff. Pam Ferris welcomed her colleagues and three VIP tables of Seacrest Village residents who were in attendance.
Sybil Brown, a special and loved resident of Seacrest Village, gave a heartfelt testimonial about her experience living in the Lee & Frank Goldberg Residence Court for the past ten years. Emotions ran high as Brown spoke on behalf of many residents, “Young or old, rich or poor, we would like to thank you for your philosophy and philanthropy. You make us feel secure, cosseted and loved. We feel we are in heaven and you are the angels.”
The evening continued with an exciting live auction conducted by Mark Drilling of Stokes Auction Group. Highlights included a Dinner with Firefighters, Exclusive Wine Tasting & Cabana Dinner at Vintana Wine + Dine, a One-Week Stay at Rancho La Puerta Fitness Resort & Spa in Baja California and a Dinner Party in the Private Wine Room of Pamplemousse Grille. A bidding frenzy occurred over the final item – American Idol tickets to a live taping.
The auction concluded with a Fund-A-Need to fund a new handicap-accessible bus for the Seacrest Village at Encinitas residents. Last year’s Gala co-chair, Larry Bloch, introduced the goal of $100,000 and shared his personal testimony as to why such a bus is a real priority, and guests responded enthusiastically by raising their bid numbers and far surpassing the original goal. Funds in excess of the goal will be put towards a second new bus for residents at Seacrest Village at Rancho Bernardo.
Guests dined on delicious entrées of filet mignon, seared sea bass or vegan mushroom risotto. Following dinner the Club Seacrest Lounge was revealed to the song “So Glad You Came” performed by San Diego Society Beat band. Guests were also treated to a lavish dessert buffet, candy station and gourmet coffee cart along with casino games and opportunity drawings to win 29 prizes. It was truly an evening to remember filled with friends, fine food and funds raised dedicated to the residents at Seacrest Village Retirement Communities.
*
Preceding provided by Seacrest Village Retirement Communities