The Santa Maria Historical Society is making history. These local city boosters are actively fundraising to make up for a loss of income.
Board president Jim Zemaitis e-mailed me with the reason the Historical Society is hustling: “We are not receiving the stipend we once did from the city,” he wrote. “We receive about half the original amount and are scrambling to make up the difference.”
It looks like the Historical Society has the right stuff to make this happen. They are an enthusiastic, dedicated bunch with affection for the Santa Maria Valley and its past that would make the Chamber of Commerce proud.
On Saturday, Aug. 20, the Historical Society held a money-making event on PCPA’s patio. Blessed with a beautiful day, ticket holders enjoyed a noontime reception, entertainment, and a tempting silent auction, as well as a seat at the matinee performance of the highly acclaimed My Fairytale.
Board member David Cross, emcee for the afternoon, acknowledged the contributions of PCPA’s group sales manager, Suzanne Rose, who coordinated the party set-up.
A lovely light buffet included croissant sandwiches, wraps, shrimp, fruit, veggies, and cheesecake. All of this was enhanced by Chardonnay or Pinot Noir from Cambria vineyards.
PCPA’s patio is perfect for pre-show and intermission enjoyment. Production manager Jeff Allen set up sound equipment so music was part of the ambience.
A recent PCPA grad, Ariel Rodriquez, provided entertainment with a few vocal selections.
“How many people visit the Historical Society museum [which shares a building on North Broadway with the Chamber of Commerce]?” I asked executive director Richard Chenoweth.
“About 3,000 a year,” he replied. “We also get third-grade students visiting us on school trips.”
The gusto for local history was evident. People discussed when they came to Santa Maria and how long they’ve been here. Mayor Larry Lavagnino took an informal survey to see who has been here the longest, and apparently he was the Big Winner.
He was born here more than 70 years ago. The Big Winner and wife Donna also won the biggest silent auction item, donated by D. Martini & Associates financial advisors: a vacation in Mexico or the Dominican Republic—meals (but not airfare) included.
Board member Myrna Winter used to own a gift shop in the Santa Maria Inn. When she retired from the business, she took home her storeroom full of inventory. Some of those items made their way to the silent auction table. Notable among her contributions was a very collectible Country Roses pattern teapot with creamer and sugar.
Local historian and keeper of trivia Shirley Contreras was among the group, as were Judy and Hardy Hearn, Sue Sword, and Margaret Paden.
Library Barbecue on Aug. 27
The Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library are also on the move to make up a shortfall in budget due to government cutbacks. This group wants to restore library programs that have been cut.
Hinda Beaman, a longtime member of this group, e-mailed me with the info that on Saturday, Aug. 27, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., they are sponsoring a barbecue in the library’s Shepard Hall. For $8, you get a tri-tip sandwich, chips, salsa, dessert, and a drink. Show up and enjoy!
If you want to hobnob with Helen, you may contact her at helenthom232@yahoo.com.
This article appears in Aug 25 – Sep 1, 2011.