A GATHERING OF FRIENDS – FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2010
ISLAND MAGIC INSPIRES GUESTS AND RAISES MORE THAN $203,000 FOR ALZHEIMER'S FAMILY SERVICES CENTER
(Huntington Beach, CA) - Alzheimer's Family Services Center (AFSC) held its 10th annual gala, "A Gathering of Friends, Getting to Know Larry Root" - Island Magic, on Friday, May 14, 2010 at the Westin, South Coast Plaza. More than 380 guests enjoyed a mystical evening filled with the sights and sounds of a tropical island as the center celebrated two amazing individuals - Distinguished Friend Ron Shenkman, Chairman of Rainbow Disposal Co., Inc., and Participant Honoree Larry Root of Newport Beach.
Ron Shenkman was recognized for his many years of service and support to Alzheimer's Family Service Center, as well as his tireless support of all nonprofit agencies in Orange County. Mayor of Huntington Beach, Cathy Green took a few moments to read a very special proclamation announcing May 17 as Ron Shenkman Day. Additionally, Dave Shenkman, Ron's son, came to the stage to share how proud he is of his father and to ensure everyone there that Ron is a great man and an even better father.
Larry Root was recognized with a 9-minute tribute video, which left guests with a new appreciation of what family love means to those facing dementia. Larry's family and friends, of whom there were over 120 present at the event, came together to share their stories of Larry on camera. After the video, Larry personally addressed the audience and thanked everyone for coming that evening.
Guests stayed to dance to music provided by Frank Fakinos and the Island Groovin' Steel Drum Band. Many were heard boasting of the auction items they had won, and sharing how much they enjoyed themselves.
"The evening was about so much more than fundraising and everyone could feel it. It was about caregiving, and facing life's challenges with love and humor. We owe so much to those who support us - our donors and volunteers. Our committee, led by Event Chair Mary Lou Shattuck, really did make magic happen this night," commented Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., AFSC's executive director.
AFSC is an independent, nonprofit agency dedicated to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. Our services address the complex and changing needs of families as Alzheimer's disease progresses from the earliest to most advanced stages. Funds raised through event sponsorships, ticket sales and the auction help provide dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support services, and community education and outreach. To learn more or to consult with a dementia care expert, please call (714) 593-9630.
Photo 1 - Judy Shenkman, Mary Lou Shattuck, Ron Shenkman, Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D.
Photo 2 - Larry & Kären Root
Photo 3 - Sally Afable, Dr. Richard Afable, Emily Congdon