Video (QUICK CLICK): Friday night at Nick's was a festive celebration in honor of the 2013 Elna Flynn Award winners.
A few of the highlights of the event included the event's emcee and Cabrillo School Principal, Thomas Stafford inviting attendees to join him in singing a hearty rendition of 1970 Grammy Award winner "You've Got a Friend", written by Carole King and made popular by James Taylor.
Sunset Ridge School Parent, Elizabeth Bucini, spoke with great emotion about the blue bracelet she has worn for a year and the source of her inspiration to volunteer. The bracelet was a gift from her son, who chose her as a person who makes a difference in his life.
Ocean Shore School Teacher, Virginia Szczepaniak , who later introduced Ocean Shore School's recipients Marguerite Rodigou and David Bradley, told me at the start of the event that while many people might think this is 'just another dinner', she feels that it is a time to acknowledge important work and focus on the good in our community.
Ingrid B. Lacy Band Director, Jerry Downs, brought in some show-and-tell. He presented a group photo of the band and said he considers Elna Flynn Recipient, Cristal Pepin, a part of the band but she's never in the pictures "because she's taking them." Shortly after, her sons presented her with a "Crazy Band Mom" crown.
Many recipients thanked their partners, friends and families for their continued support over the years.
Ortega School's recipient, Esther Im, was among them and told everyone she appreciated how her husband stepped in to be Mr. Mom during the busiest times of the school year. Im likened volunteerism to an addiction because "once you get started, you can't stop." Principal Marc Lorenzen also appreciated the support of his volunteers' families and had a gift ready for the husband of each recipient at his school.
Vallemar School's recipient, Christina Solomon's speech came with a musical accompaniment of mini-tambourines dressed with the school's colors and signature logo.
Cabrillo School's Principal Stafford, introduced sisters, Simone Burns and Natalie Ackroyd - with a comedic song about sisters. Dancing to the rhythm, one of Cabrillo's teachers appeared dressed as a See's candy box.
If you have a special memory to share about the event, by all means, leave a comment.
