Orange County American Italian Women Holds "SUMMERTIME GLITZ" Fashion Show for ST. Francis Home

President, Frances Piscopo, ebulliently greeted 114 guests, May 30, at Holiday Inn, Laguna Hills, and thanked the ambitious committee for the exciting program planned. The day commenced with the Salute to the Flag by Lucy Piccinino. Pat Catalano followed citing a spiritual invocation including prayers for our deserving Service Men and Women.

President Piscopo gladly introduced Anne Ruggera, "Summertime Glitz" Chair, First Vice President, and Past President. Chairman Ruggera welcomed everyone to the event and acknowledged the vibrant Jerri Favorite, The Carved Horse Owner, San Juan Capistrano, Fashion Show coordinator and her mother, Sharon Applegarth.

Anne enthusiastically announced that the Carved Horse has an exquisite array of jewelry, accessories and distinctive apparel. They offered 15% of jewelry and accessories sales to the club charity, St. Francis Home for the Elderly. Chairman Ruggera mentioned the old cliche, "Events like this just don't happen."

The volunteer committee graciously made this happen. Firstly, she extended sincere thanks to all who attended and the participants and donors, Jerri Favorite; Aurora-Brandelli, the $750:00 fountain donor, $200.00 donated by Anne Capizzi and the winner, Diane Ponce, donated the $200.00 to the club charity.

The string of pearls was obtained by Ann Marie Pasquariello. Thanks to the businesses, patrons, Holiday Inn, and her committee who generously donated, namely, co-chairman, Elizabeth Sheridan Balsamo. Anne stated that if you want a success, just have a fighting Irishman on your team. Secondly, Chairman Ruggera displayed the extraordinary program book designed, created, and printed by a club member, Rose Guarinieri.

The program book contained the history of OCAIW and St. Francis Home. Pat Carpino and Elizabeth Balsamo were responsible for the exquisite table decor of pale ivory linen and pink-white Azalea center pieces donated by Pat Carpino.

The plants were complimentary to the winner. At the Home of Connie Lawson, with Lucy Piccinino and volunteers assisting, the door prizes and opportunity chance prizes wrapping was colorfully tackled. Ann Marie Pasquariello, Diane Gordon-Mendoza, and Elizabeth Balsamo were the ticket bearers. The jubilant greeters were Angie Cimarusti and Pat Carpino. Irene Gordon, Past President, designed the decorative poster.

The money keeper was Connie Perakis, treasurer. Chairman Ruggera expressed her thanks and appreciation to the committee, and the members whose overwhelming cooperation, support and participation·culminated in a delightful experience. Written by Anne Ruggera

PHOTO - Seated, left to righ: Ann Marie Pasquirello, Lucy Piccinino. Second row: Pat Carpino, Rose Guarinieri, Elizabeth Balsamo, Irene Gordon. Top row: Connie Lawson, Connie Perakis.

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