By Christine Price
Columnist
Amidst all the stress, anxiety, craziness and bad news, my goal is to spotlight and share the good news in our community.
Step into an evening of glamour and generosity as the Western Reserve Junior Service League (WRJSL) presents Putting on the Ritz on Saturday, Nov. 8.
With a dazzling art deco theme featuring black top hats, feathers, fans and timeless elegance, this black-tie gala promises to transport guests to an era of sophistication – all while raising vital funds to support the League’s mission of service and community growth.
The premier event begins at 6:30 p.m. at Manakiki Golf Club in Willoughby, offering an unforgettable night of dinner, dancing and giving back.
“Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors and volunteers, we’ve been able to fuel local initiatives that uplift, inspire and transform lives,” said Tara Burgett, gala co-chair.
Fellow co-chair Pam Morse added, “We are honored to host the gala and look forward to meeting new friends who share our commitment to giving back. Putting on the Ritz isn’t just a gala – it’s a dazzling celebration of elegance, community and purpose.”
Guests will enjoy a variety of activities throughout the evening, including mystery gift bags, a wine pull and an online auction featuring exclusive items and experiences.
Looking for a getaway? The Putting on the Ritz ticket raffle offers enticing travel prizes such as:
• A four-day/three-night stay in Newport, Rhode Island, for two
• A five-day/four-night beachfront escape in the heart of Miami’s Art Deco district
• A Cleveland Guardians package
• A two-night stay at Buccia Vineyard Winery & B&B in Conneaut
• A Formula Boat adventure and dinner at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club
• A round of golf for four at Hudson Country Club
One of the evening’s highlights will be a live auction, where specialty bourbons will go to the highest bidders.
Adding even more sparkle, Bill Brown, owner of W. Brown Custom Jewelry and Design in downtown Willoughby, has once again created a one-of-a-kind necklace exclusively for the event.
The custom design showcases 24 brilliant-cut diamonds, each carefully selected for exceptional brilliance. The stunning oval pendant hangs elegantly from an 18-inch medium box-link chain and is valued at $3,585. One lucky ticket holder will take home this exquisite treasure.
“Since its debut in 1967, the WRJSL gala has stood as one of Lake County’s premier events,” said Paula Gordos, WRJSL president. “Each year, our dedicated gala committee creates a memorable evening for members, sponsors, guests and the broader community to come together in celebration and purpose.”
“As the League’s largest annual fundraiser, Putting on the Ritz directs 100 percent of proceeds back into the community through the organization’s Community Research Grant Program. This program provides funding to 501(c)(3) nonprofit agencies in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties, helping launch innovative programs that directly benefit those they serve. We are honored to continue this proud tradition, celebrating nearly six decades of impact throughout northeast Ohio,” continued Paula.
To date, WRJSL has awarded more than $1.5 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in the tri-county area. Recent recipients include The Salvation Army, WomenSafe Inc., Project Hope for the Homeless, and The Fine Arts Association, among others.
Whether you’re attending in person or supporting from afar through the online raffle, your generosity helps strengthen lives and communities across the region.
For tickets to Putting on the Ritz or to purchase raffle entries, please visit www.wrjsl.org or follow WRJSL on Facebook.
When you see good news, and you will, please let me know. I would love to share it. Please include your name, phone number, and city you live in and email cpriceconcord@aol.com.
