Crayons and Righting Implements

The event: A black-tie gala honoring supporters of CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates of Orange County. CASA, founded in 1983, recruits volunteers to represent foster children in court. The highlight of the gala Friday at the Sutton Place Hotel in Newport Beach was an emotion-packed awards presentation honoring those who’ve furthered CASA’s goal of protecting the rights of abused, abandoned and neglected children.

Child’s play: More than 400 party-goers lived it up among the red, yellow and blue balloons. Following dinner, honorees were awarded statues shaped like towering Lucite crayons--it was a kids’ thing, after all. Later--after bidding on travel packages at a live auction--the crowd danced to the sounds of Haute Chile.

Quote: “More and more people are supporting us every year. They are now aware of the fact these kids exist,” said Fred Port, event chairman. “In the past, nobody knew.”

Taking a bow: Glenn Schafer, president and CEO of Pacific Mutual, and the Pacific Mutual Foundation, represented by Thomas Sutton, were honored as children’s champions of 1997.

Also recognized were attorney Harold LaFlamme, judicial honoree; Jim Williams, chairman and CEO of Golden State Foods, corporate honoree; and Robert VanderKlish, outstanding advocate of the year.

Getting in line: The gala marked the start of CASA’s new Sponsor a CASA Child program. For $425 a year, contributors can support one of the more than 130 local children on CASA waiting lists.

Guest list: Lucie Moore and Chris Massey, event co-chairs; Deborah Abrecht, executive director of CASA; Carisa Wisniewski, board president, and her husband, Andy; Greg and Patti Penske; Suzanne VanderKlish; Susan Schafer; Bob Grant; Brian and Anissa Gurnee; Mike and Teresa Heather; Richard and Frances Gadbois; and Julie Howting.

Bottom line: The $250-per-person gala was expected to net $265,000, to be used for CASA programs and the recruitment and training of volunteer caseworkers.

What’s ahead: The Toshiba Tennis Classic to benefit CASA at the La Costa Resort & Spa on July 26.

Whom to call: CASA headquarters in Orange, (714) 935-6460.