Wine and dine to help local students

Is it spring yet? So many nonprofits are planning great causes and entertaining events.

For example, the Lioness Club of Cayucos is seeding its scholarship garden for Cayucos residents who are graduating from high school this year and planning to attend college or trade school in the fall.

The sixth annual Wine & Food Scholarship Fundraiser jointly produced by the Cayucos Lioness and Lions clubs is set for 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the Cayucos Veterans Memorial Lions Hall.

For an investment of $30, enjoy food, wine and fellowship and help raise funds to be awarded to make career dreams come true for Cayucos graduates.

Lioness Elaine Thompson offered the following information: “Carol Kramer (owner of Sea Shanty) is the brains behind the food and decorations. Shirley Lyon chairs the rest of the activities. Shirley’s number is 235-8552, or call Lioness President Mary Wulf at 235-2280 for tickets or information.”

For about eight years, the groups have co-partnered the event. Lion Andy Lilley chairs this year’s fundraiser.

Thompson provided a progress report on the students who received scholarships in 2011, when the group raised $8,000:

Matthew Sanford attends Cuesta College and hopes to become a fireman. A busy young man, he also works at the Cayucos Meat Market and lifeguards in the summer.

Ashlyn Silva attends Cuesta College as well. She continues to build her college fund to transfer to a Northern California college by working as a waitress.

Tom Funderberg recently graduated from Laurus College in San Luis Obispo, earning a degree in 3-D animation. While looking for employment in his chosen field, he is also working behind the meat counter at Cayucos Fine Meats and Grateful Deli.

Cayucan Patti Rarig understands how important the scholarship was for her daughter. She recommends that everyone support the Lionesses’ efforts.

“My daughter Danielle knew she wanted to be a nurse but wanted to finish in four years. A private school could make that happen, and this scholarship has made a difference. She’s in her second semester in Holy Names college’s (registered nursing) program and has been accepted into Samuel Merritt University’s nursing program in Oakland training in the hospital.”

Speaking of Cayucos students, the talented author and drama coach Victoria Heckman has her students at Cayucos Elementary School dressed and rehearsed for “Alice in Wonderland” set for Thursday through Saturday and Feb. 24-25.

Curtain goes up at 7 p.m., and tickets are only $7 for general admission or $5 for seniors and students. Call 995-3694 for details.

And for the young at heart, on Saturday and Sunday, check out the amazing little things on sale at the 22nd Dollhouse & Miniatures Show at the Morro Bay Community Center. For information, call 772-7858.

Reach Judy Salamacha at judysalamacha@gmail.com or 801-1422.