There weren't any dancehall "fillies" or a campsite fire - but the Long Beach Cancer League's Sundance Soiree had everything else.

It was a down-home evening for a downright good cause when about 250 guests donned all manner of Western attire for the event, which took place earlier this month at the Monte Verde Park in Lakewood. They enjoyed a casino with lively games of blackjack and craps, as well as a wine/whiskey pull and an enticing silent auction. The décor was charming and festive - with a saloon, of course.

Straight from Nashville, the Merchants of Moonshine provided toe-tappin' live music for the group to kick up their boots to a lively line dance. An array of delectable southern dishes was donated by generous Soiree "pardners" that included Boathouse on the Bay, Frosted Cupcakery, Georgia's at the LBX, Jimmy E's, Joe Jost's, Marni's, Piazza McDonald's, Taboon Mediterranean, Taco Shore, TGIS Catering, The Grand and Johnny Reb's True South.

From left, Dr. Nilesh Vora, Liz Acord, Fay Abed, Katrin Grauer, Sofia Riley, Sheryl Stewart, Dr. Mariusz Wirga, Rob Gunsalus, and Candice Wood during the Long Beach Cancer League's second annual Sundance Soiree earlier this month. (Courtesy photo)

Past Long Beach Cancer League presidents were honored at the organization's second annual Sundance Soiree. Back row from left: Georgianna Kolsky, Sofia Riley, Jeri Goldstein, Barbara Gaylord, Virgie Barnes, Lynne Pillsbury, Jill Rosenberg and Linda Lassers. Front row, from left: Tammy Newland Shishido and Patty Gadd. (Courtesy photo)

League President Sheryl Stewart welcomed guests and soiree co-Chair Katrin Grauer thanked the event

s generous sponsors. Heated bidding on the live auction items ensued, with guests vying for trips to Whistler, British Columbia; Nashville; Mexico; and Italy; several wonderful parties; and a couple of pieces of exquisite jewelry from Mark Schneider Jewelers.

The Long Beach Cancer League is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. As such, the soiree program began with a nod to past Cancer League presidents, 10 of whom were present to receive a bouquet of members

appreciation for their ongoing commitment and leadership. Receiving bouquets of flowers were: Georgianna Kolsky, Sofia Riley, Jeri Goldstein, Barbara Gaylord, Virgie Barnes, Lynne Pillsbury, Jill Rosenberg, Linda Lassers, Tammy Newland Shishido and Patty Gadd.

Leslie Carr and Michelle DeNicola, former cancer patients, spoke briefly of their gratitude for the life-sustaining support of local cancer hospitals.

All soiree proceeds, more than $175,000, will benefit the comprehensive wellness support programs for adults at the Todd Cancer Institute at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, as well as the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Institute at Miller Children's and Women's Hospital.

Seen at the scene: Sheryl and Jeff Stewart, Mike and Mimi Brascia, Drs. Jonathan Blitzer and Carole Warde, Dr. Nilesh and Pinel Vora, Drs. Mariusz and Alexandra Wirga, Gary and Dawna DeLong, Sherri Eaton, Bob and Nancy Foster, Greg and Cindy Gill, Marty and Debra Greco, Martin and Cindy Howard, Phil and Jeannie Jones, Joan Knight, Lisa Mais, Dennis McConkey and Loree Scarborough, Pam Luckey, Mike and Tracy Murchison, Ross Riddle, Sofia and Jim Riley, Harry and Maria Saltzgaver, Mark and Nancy Schneider, Richard Brown, Kathy Keesal, Mari Hooper, Lynne Pillsbury, Georgianna and Allan Kolsky, David and Jeri Goldstein, Barbara and Ned Gaylord, Tom and Candice Nantais, Virgie Barnes, Jill Rosenberg, Linda Lassers, Tammy Newland and Ken Shishido, Patty and Gary Gadd, Jill and Linda Sande, Debbie Autrey, Craig Cross, Gary Wolf and Carl Lee, Liz Acord, Fay Abed, Katrin Grauer, Rob Gunsalus, Candice Wood, Darick Simpson, Robert and Pam Funari.

By SHIRLEY WILD | spwild@verizon.net | Press-Telegram PUBLISHED: June 15, 2025 at 6:00 AM PDT