Peninsula journal

Records were shattered March 7 as the San Carlos community rallied behind this year’s Spring Fling — a district-wide fund-raising auction gala now in its sixth year — making it the most successful one yet. "Stars for Education: Lights, Camera, Action!” raked in $350,000 for San Carlos school programs (compared with $320,000 in 2008 and $250,000 in 2007). Proceeds benefit all seven public schools in San Carlos.

900 attendees partied the night away, dancing to the music of the rock band "Ladd” (San Carlos parents Joel Norgaard and Mark Szelenyi). A highlight of the evening was the Emkay Diamonds Martini Bar, which raised $5,600 from guests who purchased $50 diamond martinis for a chance to win one of 5 prizes donated by Kavita Malaviya from Emkay Diamonds on Laurel Street in San Carlos. The Grand prize winner was Tierra Linda parent Cindy Clay who scooped up a 9-strand, freshwater pearl necklace with two 14k yellow gold and diamond clips. Platinum event sponsors were Avenir Restaurant Group, Bob Bredel from ReMax Today and the Palo Alto Medical Foundation.

The Spring Fling Advisory Board includes Co-Chairs Lisa Costello, Kim Kondo, Mike Takamoto, Tara Saul, Arundel, Shannon Murray, Brittan Acres, Kim Norgaard, Central, Leslie Jacobs, Charter, Patti Lorin, Heather, Rebecca Smith, Tierra Linda, Susan Spinali, White Oaks, Jennifer Webb, SCEF president, Beth Hunkapiller, San Carlos school board representative and Betsy Adams, PTA coordinating council.

Books & Authors

The San Mateo Chapter of the American Association of University Women held its Twelfth Annual Books & Authors Luncheon March 28 at the Elks Lodge in San Mateo. AAUW Educational Foundation Co-Chairs Helen Hatchett and Elissa James organized and hosted this popular fundraiser that featured guest speaker Joanne Garrison, author of "Burlingame Centennial 1908-2008.”

Patience Tusingwire, a native of Uganda and recipient of the AAUW International Fellowship, spoke of the help the Educational Foundation has given her in continuing her studies at the University of San Francisco School of Law. Betty Bernstein and Helen Hatchett were honored for their significant contributions to the mission of the AAUW Educational Foundation.

The American Association of University Women advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education and research. The current president of the San Mateo chapter is Maureen Buchner. Those interested in joining AAUW/San Mateo can call 591-0906 for more information.

Night of fun

On March 27 the Peninsula Italian-American Social Club hosted its first annual "Night of Fun” dinner as a benefit for Mission Hospice. More than 300 people came to enjoy good food and good company and helped raise $25,000 for Mission Hospice’s Transitions program. The evening included cocktails, dinner and both a raffle and live auction. Following dinner, guests danced the night away to music by George Campi and the Lou Roselli Band. Stefano Quilici of San Mateo and the Peninsula Italian American Social Club committee organized the festivities.

Mission Hospice is a local, independent hospice that provides quality, compassionate care to terminally ill patients and their families in San Mateo County and surrounding areas. The Transitions program provides emotional support and practical assistance free of charge to individuals and families who are coping with a life-limiting illness with a prognosis of one year or less. This program is available for individuals who choose to pursue curative or palliative treatments and for those who don’t qualify, or aren’t ready, for hospice care. More information about Mission Hospice is available at www.missionhospice.org.

To send us information on upcoming events, e-mail us at social@smdailyjournal.com.