Two Friends, One Day: 50k Challenge, an annual beach walk hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, mobilized community spirit and philanthropic energy to support important youth programs.
Spearheading the event on September 20th was Boys & Girls Club of Long Beach CEO Don Rodriguez and past board president Dr. Grant Uba, who traveled from Newport Beach to Long Beach. Not only did he take on the grueling 50km walk, he continued to walk with pride. They served as presenting sponsors and put their money where their mouths (or feet) were in championing the organization’s mission.
They were not alone during the trek. They were visited and cheered on by their dear friends and supporters throughout the walk, including Kelly Buck, Carlos Delhera, Maria Bussa, Andy Kokos, Dr. Zamost, Stu Leadsome, Vicky Oates and Mark Goldsmith. sent. , Eric Chapman, Greg Bornstein, Grant Uba Jr., and Rocky Suarez. Cindy Rodriguez also provided valuable support throughout the route.
This year’s event raised more than $150,000, meeting the duo’s fundraising goal to support the club’s college prep program, Diplomas 2 Degrees, Uva Scholarship Fund, and its youth sports league. These programs continue to have a measurable impact. 96% of BGCLB members plan to attend college, and 100% graduate on time and are ready to pursue their futures. Over the years, this event has raised more than $750,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, making a tremendous impact on the youth the organization serves.
As the sun set over Long Beach, a vibrant and enthusiastic crowd of supporters gathered at Julie and Rocky Suarez’s waterfront home to celebrate their incredible accomplishments. Guests had an unforgettable evening with stunning ocean views, lively conversation and great food generously provided by The Grand. What was the culinary highlight of the night? The mouth-watering lobster roll that everyone was talking about!
In addition to Rodriguez and Uva’s sponsors, the event is sponsored by Farmers Insurance, Pacific Coast Capital Management, Carnival, The Grand, Dr. George and Celeste Macer, Andy Dane Carter, Tony Chukka, Lexus , Martin Bratroot, Pam & Dan Manzer, Port of Long Beach, Teresa Strombom & Bruce Strombom, TABC.
The evening’s celebration not only honored the fundraising goal, but also the dedication of Rodriguez and Uva, who have continually demonstrated their commitment to the organization’s mission. Festive conversation and laughter filled the air, and the finish line party was the perfect end to an emotional day. For more information, visit bgclublb.org/BeachWalk or call 562-595-5945.
Those seen at the scene: Debbie and Dr. Grant Uba, Cindy and Don Rodriguez, Julie and Rocky Suarez, Robert Renteria, Jim Zehmer, Tony Chukka, Dr. Marvin Zamost, Kathy and Jim McDonnell, Paula. and Stu Leadsome, Randy Gordon, Rich Archibald, Greg Bornstein, Kelly Buck, Carlos Delhera, Vicki Oates, Mark Goldsmith, Sueann Schoonmaker, Darrick Simpson, and Dr. Bruce Vanatta.
Long Beach BLAST’s First Annual Friendraiser
BLAST, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering students through mentoring, hosts its first “Back to School Friend Raiser” at the home of Sumerian Temple, one of BLAST’s dedicated supporters I did. This groundbreaking event marked the beginning of a new tradition committed to uniting the community each year to advocate for educational equity and support local students.
The Friendraiser drew about 100 supporters. This event is in support of BLAST’s ongoing efforts to raise friends and funds for the program.
“We want to create a strong community of individuals who not only support our work, but are also actively engaged in helping students reach their full potential. ,” said Executive Director John Mesko. “Our Friendraiser is the perfect platform to connect people, deepen relationships, and expand the resources available to students and families.”
The event raised approximately $15,000.
On scene: Marcel Epley, Randy Gordon, Sumer Temple, Jeremy Harris, Braden Phillips, Dr. Marquita Grunow Scheyer, Commander Norma Carrillo, Lionel Gonzalez, Dan Hofstadter, David Koch. , Marisa Semense, Jessica Korver, Richard Brown
Golf tournament to fight breast cancer
When you think of golf, you think of green, but on October 1st, Recreation Park No. 9 was filled with pink. Pink is a well-known symbol for breast cancer and is also the symbol of the Breast Cancer Angels, which supports individuals diagnosed with breast cancer by assisting with their financial needs during treatment. The Women in Golf Breast Cancer Golf Tournament was attended by 55 club members and special guests.
This fun event raised $5,500 for Breast Cancer Angels.
The “country” theme ties in with the pink color of breast cancer in many clever ways. A floral pattern drawn on the centerpiece of pink boots was floating on the cafe table. There was a saddle on display for members to purchase rings to throw into the saddle horn to win a mulligan.
27 donated raffle items and 7 silent auction items were on display. It was a labor of love that incorporated pink everywhere, including golf wear, hats, and accessories. The pink tee hole signs on the golf course honored those who lost the battle or are still fighting. The theme of the sign is “Don’t let your friends fight alone.” A donation was made to have a sign installed at his favorite hole.
The highlight of the event was all the survivors standing up to share their stories and reminding everyone to never miss their annual mammogram.
Angels Executive Director Debbie Stroman, Founder and President Sharon Schwing, Judy O’Leary, Vernetta Evans, Joan Toll, Carol Rankin, Mary Beth Ives, Camille Daniels and Paige were on scene. Breen, Cynthia Camp, Sally Miller, Jan Eisenberger, Debbie Cahill, Laurie Miladinovich (cq), Nancy Mishneau, Mary Ann Ogle
News of charitable social events can be sent to Shirley Wild at spwild@verizon.net or faxed to 562-594-9468. Please enter your contact phone number. Attach a high-resolution JPEG photo and send it to spwild@verizon.net, including the group name and personal identifying information from the left. For more information, please call Shirley at 562-594-9468.
