The University of Miami’s Frost School of Music’s Holiday Dinner Gala, the 7th Annual Winter Wonderful!, held at the Fountainebleau Hotel on December 6, raised a record $156,000 to benefit undergraduate music scholarships at the University of Miami. The affair, chaired by Patti and Allan Herbert, honored Jon Secada, who received the Frost Achievement Award, and Marta S. Weeks, who received the Frost Legacy Award.
While the Frost School showcased their talented music students, the special guest artist, of course, was Jon Secada. During the affair Secada spoke with UM Friends of Music (FOM) Vice President, Rick Tonkinson, and accepted an Honorary Lifetime FOM Membership.
Among the many attending this holiday gala were Dean Shelly and Julie Berg, Ca rol Alexander, Thor Bruce, Dr. Morton and Irene Hammond, Frankie Hipp, Adele Neumann, Rick and Margarita Tonkinson, Hank Langston, Marian Krutulis, Julie Williamson, Alex and Abby Vicencio, to mention a few.
By the way, Jon Secada will receive his Friends of Music recognition at his outdoor concert at Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens. Fairchild’s Valentine’s Day concert will be held on February 14, 2010. Save that date for a fabulous show and a great way to treat someone you love to a perfectly romantic event.
In other holiday activity, GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club collected more than 150 gifts for the children who visit the Club’s free May Van Sickle Children’s Dental Clinic that opens its services to school aged children in need though out Miami Dade County. A final push for gifts came in conjunction with the Club’s Annual Holiday Party held December 9 at their lovely clubhouse in the Gables.
Aside from collecting gifts and enjoying a massive Italian buffet brought by members themselves, the Club inducted ten new members. Vice President Debi Wilborn officiated over that ceremony and welcomed all to join the club in service to the community.
Following the installation, President Pam Schaefer wished all a happy holiday season and the party began with lots of music and dancing by all. For those looking to give back to the community through service, CGWC invites you to join their efforts. For more information, go to < www.coralgableswomansclub.org >.
Until next week, keep making each day count. May you all have a blessed and happy holiday season.
Gloria Burns is Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Pinecrest, a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization, as well as a columnist for Community Newspapers.
Keeping abreast of community activities is a challenge. If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via e-mail to < galburns@aol.com >.
