associates spotlight
Here’s to all the ladies. Lisa See’s formula for her best-selling novels includes gutsy female protagonists and a fascinating historic backdrop rich in Chinese culture and history. It’s clear that Ms. See possesses each of those endearing characteristics as she gave her talk at the Lobero Theatre Associates’ Hats Off Luncheon. Held on a beautiful March day at the picturesque Coral Casino La Pacifica Ballroom with Chinese-inspired outfits and décor, guests were eager to hear insights from a top-tier novelist. Ms. See is very knowledgeable about her family’s origins in China – both for the larger context of their journey to the United States, and the entertaining details that bring such a journey to life. Her talk was peppered with personal jokes and anecdotes, and no topic was off limits. From foot binding and breast enhancement, to the history of the Mai Tai (named after a San Francisco Chinatown showgirl), to stories of exotic Chinese cuisine and other tales from her travels and research. Ms. See has a gift for shining a light on some overlooked aspects of the modern Chinese identity. In addition Ms. See’s riveting speech, guests enjoyed Gil Rosas at the Piano, gorgeous hand painted centerpieces courtesy of Angie Ferraro, and a wonderful raffle. The raffle boasted some outstanding prizes this year, including trips, wine & dine packages, gorgeous jewelry and spa packages. Hats Off is the Associates annual luncheon, which raises funds for the Lobero Theatre Youth Programs, and offers a tip of the hat to a notable presence in the arts. Ms. See certainly fits the bill; in addition to her career as a novelist, she has been honored as National Woman of the Year by the Organization of Chinese American Women and was the recipient of the Chinese American Museum’s History Makers Award. She continues to do good work as a trustee on the University of California Press Foundation, and has endowed the Lisa See Endowment Fund in Southern California History and Culture. Big thanks to Associates President Janet McCann, and event co-chairs Joan Crossland and Holly Murphy for putting on such a successful lunch, and raising $36,000 to support the Lobero Theatre’s Youth Programs.
Hats Off Committee members: Holly Murphy, Janet McCann, Emily Dempster, Angie Ferrero, Joan Crossland Susan Keller, Anne Towbes, Judi Weisbart Lily Marx, author Lisa See Photos: Monie Photography
COMING UP:
When the Associates get together, it’s a celebration of girl power. Ms. See’s novels too, are a reminder of the power of sisterhood.
New Member Luncheon: September 15, 2016 Holiday Tea: December 7, 2016 Hats Off Luncheon: March 15, 2017 23