So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, goodbye.
That line, from “The Sound of Music” says it all.
This column, dear readers, is Hobnobbing’s swan song.
After umpteen years of publishing my columns on social events—that focused on nonprofit fund raisers—the Sun is discontinuing “Hobnobbing with Helen.” I hope this is not by popular demand.
Shall we pause whilst you go fetch a Kleenex?
It has been my pleasure to write (mostly) about nonprofits and what and how they do it for the community. In the course of hobnobbing, I have met so many terrific people and made so many valuable friendships. I have learned what constitutes the heart and soul of a place. And I have realized that it feels good to do something positive for the people around you.
Nonprofits are, in a sense, the glue that holds communities together. They support children in foster care, provide children with educational experiences they would otherwise not have, buy shoes and clothing for needy schoolchildren, provide information on health issues, and feed the underfed. My nonprofit stories have been about culture (theater, The Philharmonic, and our wonderful library) and about service clubs like Rotary, Altrusa, and the Kiwanis. What would life be like without these organizations and institutions?
It is a credit to the paper that, in a place of Santa Maria’s size and demographics, it chose to run a regular piece like “Hobnobbing.”
That said, before I tear up, let me share with you a social event that was one of June’s joys and a very high note upon which to suspend my “Hobnobbing” career.
With great verve and flair, Fred and Judy Sanders celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary on Saturday, June 1, at the Santa Maria Inn. This just wasn’t any anniversary party. This was a (one of my favorite words) lollapalooza.
The Sanders’ daughter Caitlin waved her magic decorating wand and transformed the plain vanilla Santa Maria Room into an elegant, sort-of-tropical setting focusing on Hawaii, because that is where her parents met many moons ago. There were lush, breathtaking flower arrangements everywhere. For a moment I thought I was at the Ritz Carlton on Maui.
Guests were encouraged to dress accordingly. Alas, I couldn’t find my grass skirt. Gents came in Hawaiian print shirts. Ladies wore flowers in their hair and Polynesian prints.
The Alzheimer’s Association is very dear to the hearts of Fred and Judy. So when invitees made inquiries about gifts for the occasion, Fred suggested that a donation be made to the nonprofit that provides information and direction for persons with afflicted relatives. What a lovely way to celebrate.
Highlights of the evening were Fred and Judy repeating vows in front of attorney Heather Weare, champagne toasts, and a fabulous wedding cake. Of course, there were mai tais galore served at the bar and a prime rib dinner served at beautifully, extravagantly appointed tables. Wedding and event planner Caitlin knows her stuff!
Sue Sword’s friends will be happy to know that that glamorous lady was able to join us, as were Dr. Bob and Eilene Okerblom, Margaret Paden, and Jack and Caroline Shouse. It wouldn’t be a party without Santa Maria Inn owners Blanche Fugate (with husband Bert) and Hardy and Judy Hearn. Dancing to a DJ capped the simply stunning soiree.
And now, dear readers, aware that when one door shuts, another one opens, I, clutching my bulging Rolodex and trusty Nikon, am off to find that open door. I wish you all well. I will miss you.
If you want to continue hobnobbing with Helen, you may contact her at column151@gmail.com.
This article appears in Jun 27 – Jul 4, 2019.