Classy Affair Raises Funds for Local Groups

Guests enjoyed an evening of glamour.Photo by Donna Vernier

By Ruth Lepper

It was a night to remember when "An Evening in Monte Carlo" took over the majestic Mount Woodson Castle for a classy fundraiser hosted by the Ramona Rotary Club and the Intermountain Volunteer Fire-Rescue Department Auxiliary. More than 260 people attended the Feb. 9 event.

"We had a good turnout," said Debbie Steingraber, auxiliary treasurer. "We had a lot of people show up at the door to buy tickets. All the firefighters who weren't actually on duty showed up in uniform."

Vanessa Aspin and Rath Webster rounded up local models to show off fashions provided by Macy's of Escondido. The castle made a perfect backdrop for the models to stroll around wearing outfits perfect for work or an evening out on the town.

Prizes donated by local merchants brought in top dollars for such things as a biplane ride and an all-day fishing trip on a private yacht, among others. Opportunity drawings, reverse raffle and a live auction, with celebrity auctioneer Clint Bell, took place throughout the evening.

Event co-chairs Sharon Greene with Robert Vaughn. Photo by Carol Kinney

Festivities also included gaming tables where guests could try their hand at the latest Las Vegas-style gambling.

Proceeds from the evening were shared by the two hosting groups.

"It went pretty well for the first time as a joint venture," Steingraber said. "All the money that we raise goes back for the daily operating expenses for the department. They need all the help they can get, being a volunteer station."

The auxiliary, known as the "Hot Spots," supports the Intermountain Volunteer Fire-Rescue Department, which provides service to a 125-square-mile area between Ramona, Julian and Lake Henshaw. Volunteers receive training at an academy sponsored by the department. Currently, there are about 45 volunteers serving with Intermountain Volunteer Fire-Rescue Department and its auxiliary.

Ramona Rotary Club, a staple in the community for more than 50 years, is a nonprofit humanitarian service organization with memberships consisting of local business professionals. The club carries out a variety of service projects that address critical issues in the community, including services for youth and senior citizens, as well as numerous other community-based and international projects.

Jane Tanaka, M.D., beside one of the vintage automobiles on display at the event. Photo by Donna Vernier