2 friends run 50k to raise money for Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach – Press-Telegram

Two Friends, One Day: 50K Challenge, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach’s annual beach walk, combined community spirit and philanthropic energy to support important youth programs.

The September 20 attack was led by Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, and former board chairman Dr. Grant Uba, who not only took on the strenuous 50-kilometer hike from Newport Beach to Long Beach, but also took pride in it, served as presenting sponsors and actively advocated for the organization’s mission.

The two were not alone on their walk: they were visited and cheered on throughout the walk by dear friends and supporters, including Kelly Buck, Carlos Delherra, Maria Bussa, Andy Korkos, Dr. Zamost, Stu Ledsam, Vickie Oates and Mark Goldsmith, Eric Chapman, Greg Bornstein, Grant Uba Jr. and Rocky Suares. Cindy Rodriguez also provided valuable support throughout the route.

This year’s event raised more than $150,000, meeting the duo’s fundraising goal to support the club’s college readiness program, diplomas2Degrees, the Uba Scholarship Fund and its youth sports leagues. These programs continue to have a tangible impact: 96% of BGCLB members plan to attend college and 100% plan to graduate on time, ready for their future. Over the years, this event has raised more than $750,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Long Beach – which has had a tremendous impact on the youth served by the organization.

As the sun set over Long Beach, a lively and eager group of supporters gathered at Julie and Rocky Suares’ beach house to celebrate the duo’s incredible achievement. Guests were treated to an unforgettable evening, with stunning sea views, lively conversation and an incredible selection of food generously donated by The Grand. The culinary highlight of the evening? Delicious lobster rolls that had everyone talking!

In addition to Rodriguez and Uba’s sponsorship, the event was made possible by the generous contributions of top sponsors: Farmers Insurance, Pacific Coast Capital Management, Carnival, The Grand, Dr. George and Celeste Macer, Andy Dane Carter, Tony Chukuka, Lexus, Martin Brattrud, Pam and Dan Munzer, The Port of Long Beach, Theresa and Bruce Strombom and TABC.

The evening’s celebration was not only about reaching the fundraising goal, but also about recognizing the commitment of Rodriguez and Uba, who have continually committed to the organization’s mission. With celebratory conversation and laughter, the finish party was the perfect end to an inspiring day. For more information, visit bgclublb.org/BeachWalk or call 562-595-5945.

Seen at the crime scene: Debbie and Dr. Grant Uba, Cindy and Don Rodriguez, Julie and Rocky Suares, Robert Renteria, Jim Zehmer, Tony Chukuka, Dr. Marvin Zamost, Kathy and Jim McDonnell, Paula and Stu Ledsam, Randy Gordon, Rich Archbold, Greg Bornstein, Kelly Buck, Carlos Delherra, Vicki Oates, Mark Goldsmith, SueAnn Schoonmaker, Darick Simpson and Dr. Bruce Vannatta.

Long Beach BLAST’s first annual friendship event

BLAST, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students through mentoring, hosted its first Back to School Friendraiser campaign at the home of Sumer Temple, one of BLAST’s dedicated supporters. The milestone event marked the start of a new tradition that promises to bring the community together year after year to advocate for educational equity and support local students.

Around 100 supporters took part in the Friendraiser. This event serves BLAST’s ongoing efforts to attract both friends and money to its programs.

“We want to create a strong community of individuals who not only support our work, but are actively committed to helping students reach their full potential,” said Executive Director Jon Mesko. “Our Friendraiser is the perfect platform to bring people together, deepen relationships and expand the resources available to students and families.”

The event raised approximately $15,000.

Seen at the crime scene: Marcelle Epley, Randy Gordon, Sumer Temple, Jeremy Harris, Braden Phillips, Dr. Marquita Grenot-Scheyer, Commander Norma Carrillo, Lionel Gonzalez, Dan Hofstadter, David Koch, Marisa Semense, Jessica Kober, Richard Brown

Golf tournament to fight breast cancer

When we think of golf, we think of the color green, but on Oct. 1 at Recreation Park 9, it was an abundance of pink. Pink has always been the well-known symbol of breast cancer, as has the Breast Cancer Angels, who support people diagnosed with breast cancer by helping manage their financial needs during treatment. The Women in Golf Breast Cancer Golf Tournament was attended by 55 club members and special guests.

The fun event raised $5,500 for the Breast Cancer Angels.

A “country” theme has been tied to breast cancer pink in many clever ways. The cafe was full of flowers in painted pink boot decorations on the tables. Members were issued a saddle so they could purchase rings to throw at the saddle horn to win mulligans.

There were 27 donated raffle items and seven silent auction items on display. It was a labor of love with pink everywhere – in golf clothing, hats and accessories. Pink tee signs on the golf course honor those who have either lost the battle or are still fighting. The theme of the signs was “Friends Don’t Let Friends Fight Alone.” Donations were donated to put up the signs at their favorite hole.

The highlight of the event was all the survivors standing up and telling their stories – reminding everyone to never miss an annual mammogram.

Seen at the crime scene: Angels Executive Director Debbie Stroman, Founder/President Sharon Schwing, Judy O’Leary, Bernetta Evans, Joan Tall, Carole Rankin, Mary Beth Ives, Camille Daniels, Paige Breen, Cynthia Camp, Sally Miller, Jan Isenberger, Debbie Cahill, Laurie Miladinovich (cq), Nancy Michenaud, Mary Ann Ogle

Messages about charitable social events may be sent to Shirley Wild at [email protected] or by fax to 562-594-9468. Please provide a contact telephone number. Send high-resolution JPEG photos as attachments to [email protected] and include group name and identification of individuals from left. For more information, call Shirley at 562-594-9468.