CEC Goes Green
by Lorraine D. Wilson, News-Press Staff Writer
Santa Barbara Woman's Club-Rockwood was rocking green when the Community Environmental Council held its annual fundraiser, the Green Gala, the "eco-chic event of the season."
The party for the planet was sold-out and began with Greentinis on the patio as guests bid on silent auction items. At dinner, created by SBB Gourmet Catering and chef Harold Welch, there was fresh produce from local farmers, organic wines by Alma Rosa, and dessert donated by Renaud's Patisserie.
The auction was billed as "the shortest live auction ever" and lived up to its moniker with two vacations offered and gone in 10 minutes. Janis Clapoff, general manager of Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, and Karen Earp, general manager of the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, donated luxury stays.
Dave Davis, executive director of CEC, gave credit to Merryl Brown Events for the creative planning for the party — everything was recyclable except the silverware, wine glasses and green tablecloths, which were washable. Kristi Meland and designer Jerry Peddicord, co-owners of SR Hogue, donated much of the décor.
Among the sponsors were Judy and Mario Borgatello, Allen Associates, Betty and Mike Noling, Carol and Bill Palladini, Phyllis dePicciotto and Stan Roden, Lois Phillips and Dennis Thompson, and Hal Conklin for Southern California Edison.
More supporters were Linda and David Hughes, Joe and Mayor Marty Blum, Phyllis and Steve Amerikaner, Goleta Mayor Roger Aceves and Debby, Thelma Rubin, Diane Boss and Anton Vonk, and Matt and Michelle Pickett.
Originally appeared in the Santa
Barbara News-Press, November 8, 2009
Reprinted with permission from the Santa Barbara News-Press
For additional information or to inquire about sustainable event planning, call (805) 455-3112 or visit: www.merrylbrownevents.com
