2009 Red Feather Ball
 

The honorees at the end of their celebration

Its origins go back 500 years, but flamenco was alive and as stomping as ever at the 13th Annual Red Feather Ball. Fess Parker’s DoubleTree Resort ballrooms were transformed once again - patrons and guests were greeted by a velvet mural of a female flamenco dancer measuring 40’ by 17’ tall on the far wall. This beautiful lady appeared to be floating on a stunning sea of shimmering white tables and chairs with red accents. Tapas of Serrano ham, Manchego cheese and olives were appreciated by all as the program got under way with Musical Mischief Productions’ tribute spoofs to honorees Dr. Peter MacDougall and Venoco, Inc.

Debby Davison-Phelps was the Master of Ceremonies par excellence as usual. Flamenco entertainment preceded auctioneers Andrew Firestone and John Palminteri, who delighted the crowd with their witty repartee while raising money for our Fun in the Sun children. A highlight of the evening was the appearance at the podium of two of our former Fun in the Sun campers who are now juniors at San Marcos High School and will return as Fun in the Sun Counselors in Training again next summer, Jessica Arroyo and Alejandra Perdomo. Their personal stories captured the hearts and wallets of the audience, and watching these delightful and successful girls speak, Red Feather Ball attendees were able to witness firsthand  the difference they are making in local children’s lives.

 

l-r Bob & Chris Emmons, Brian King & Leslie Ridley-Tree with Hiroko & Fred Benko

Tom Thomas of Santa Barbara Bank & Trust and our United Way Board Chair, presented the tribute to Tim and Bernie Marquez and Venoco, Inc. Tim razzed good friend Peter MacDougall about baseball and made sure that we all knew that everything he is and has done is because of Bernie, his wife. His self effacing humor and gracious acceptance spoke volumes. Venoco, Inc. has made over $4 million in grants to education and non-profit projects in the last decade.

Lois Mitchell, President of the Orfalea Foundations, represented last year’s recipients Paul and Natalie Orfalea.  She presented the tribute to Dr. Peter MacDougall for his over 20 years of service to the community. Peter has proven that helping make Santa Barbara a better place for all is truly his passion. He is just as busy helping the community in retirement as he was the first twenty years in town at the helm of Santa Barbara City College.

We thank Morrie and Irma Jurkowitz for co-chairing this event and lending their significant support. The Fun in the Sun children will benefit in the summer of 2010.
 

Want to order or see more Red Feather Ball Pictures?  Visit

http://redfeatherball.shutterfly.com/