National Charity League Debutante Ball Presented
The San Marino Chapter of the National Charity League held its 45th Annual Debutante Ball in the Ballroom of the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel, in Beverly Hills on Dec. 22, 2005.
One La Canada girl, Laura Elizabeth Dwyer, was honored with the class of 2005 Ticktockers who have volunteered six years and 17,246 hours of community service. The 23 young women have completed their hours of volunteer work at 19 philanthropies in San Marino and neighboring communities. Some of the agencies served include Almansor Center, Armory Center for the Arts, LAC/USC Medical Center, Pasadena Humane Society, Villa Esperanza, San Marino and South Pasadena public libraries, Pasadena Senior Center, Huntington Memorial Hospital, Ability First and Kidspace Museum.
The debutantes all gave exemplary service to the community, and Christie Anne Bertch received the Merci Award for volunteering 1,505 hours. She also received the Spirit Award for her enthusiasm and for embracing the goals and mission of NCL.
These NCL Debs have earned the privilege of donning their white gowns by six years of volunteering, unconditionally. The mothers of these young women were also recognized for their dedication to their daughters and to the mission of NCL, each receiving a single red rose from the handsome young escorts at the end of the presentation. These committed mothers have carried on the tradition and National Charity League’s mission to “foster mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences.”
The San Marino Area Chapter 2005 Debutante Ball committee was chaired by Debutante Ball Chair and 5th Vice President, Mrs. D. Kerry McCluggage and Assistant Director and Tea Chair, Mrs. Fillmore Testa. The guests were greeted by San Marino Chapter President Mrs. Aaron Weiss.
The Debutantes were introduced by Mr. D. Kerry McCluggage with an acknowledgment of each girl’s special National Charity League memory. Their fathers proudly presented these young women who shined like stars on this elegant night in their white gowns, white gloves and traditional NCL Medallions, and the guests applauded as each made her “St. James Bow” at the end of each presentation.
Annie Higgins, decorations chair, and the talents of San Marino florist Tommy Farmer, transformed the ballroom into a scene from “My Fair Lady,” which happened to be the theme for this year’s ball. The girls, their families and guests danced all night to the musical talents of The J. Sterling Orchestra.
Jack Pettee Photographers from South Pasadena, was once again on hand to capture the beauty and elegance of the evening with Brad Coker, videographer, chronicling memories for the girls on DVD.