The Valley Line: Pasadena Showcase House of Design features local property
On April 16, the Pasadena Showcase House of Design, which this year features a La Cañada Flintridge property, opened its doors and invited in ticket holders for the first public tours of the monthlong event.
On the Friday night before the opening of the house, a lovely premiere viewing party was held there, followed by dinner and dancing at the La Cañada Flintridge Country Club.
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Guests dressed in formal wear were shuttled to the house for a first peek at the house, which has been transformed inside and out.
Greeting guests at the front door of the estate home were Marilyn Anderson and Gretchen McNally. McNally is president of Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts and grew up here in La Cañada.
“Premiere Night is an exciting night for us. It is a night where we show our appreciation to the designers and members for their tireless efforts and contributions,” stated Premiere Night co-chairs Linda Zimmer and Michele Lembo.
Guests dined on a specially created dinner that included farm fresh salad with mozzarella and prosciutto de parma; filet mignon and sautéed jumbo prawns complete with creamy risotto, asparagus and baby carrots. For dessert there was lavender creme brulee with seasonal berries.
It was an amazing party at the country club. The dance floor was crowded the entire evening with the upbeat tunes performed by That Vibe.
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It was a flag waving day and a tribute to Old Glory when the Oakmont League held its biennial luncheon and fashion show at the Hilton Hotel in Glendale that drew more than 200 guests.
The event began with attendees catching up on community news with friends and shopping in the many boutique spaces that offered everything from kitchen gadgets to fashionable jewelry with plenty of sparkle.
The fundraising event themed “America the Beautiful” began with club President Nina Ratliff welcoming guests. Co-chairs were Barbara McCullough and Judy Mendicina. Co-emcees for the afternoon were Stephen Ratliff and CBS News reporter Michele Gile.
Receiving special honors that day were Esther Bowen, a 29-year member of the League and Barbara McCullough, a 24-year member. Bowen, because of health issues, was unable to attend. Her daughter Alison Weir, who is also a League member, accepted the award on her behalf and Bowen’s granddaughter Heather Weir gave a lovely acceptance speech. Esther’s entire family stepped up to the podium to accept her award.
After lunch was served, the fashion show of beautiful spring fashions began. Robert Ellis, who also gave each guest a $100 gift certificate to his Studio City boutique produced the show.
It was a fulfilling day that raised money for the league’s philanthropies that include Hillside School and Learning Center in La Cañada. Other philanthropies the league raises funds for include Glendale Healthy Kids, Glendale Community College’s Disabled Students and scholarships to students who attend Glendale’s five high schools and Glendale Community College. Over the League’s 77- year history, $2 million has been raised.
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JANE NAPIER NEELY covers the La Cañada Flintridge social scene. Email her at jnvalleysun@aol.com with news of your special event.