SAN DIEGO -"Passport to Paradise" was the theme for the fundraising event Saturday, May 13, 2006 at the Town & Country Hotel/Convention Center, Atlas Ballroom.  Once again this year, KNSD’s Rory Devine emceed the Soroptimist International of San Diego’s awards luncheon. Proceeds from the event benefit "Road to Rilla's," San Diego Soroptimists new service focus.  The mission of this project is to "chart the course for young women from foster care to self sufficiency" - to help young women recently emancipated from the foster care system with mentoring, housing and education.

Five local women received the 2006 Making a Difference for Women Award from Soroptimist International of San Diego.  The Making a Difference for Women Award honors women who work to improve and significantly impact the lives of women and girls, and inspire and encourage other women.  The 2006 honorees are Cynthia Kangas, Program Director, Mary's House, YMCA Youth & Family Services; Sharon M. Lawrence, Executive Director, Voices for Children; Zara Marselian, Chief Executive Officer, La Maestra Amnesty Center and Clinic; Louise E. Pearson, Educator, San Diego Unified School District; and Dorothy Vails-Weber, Ed.D, Psychologist and Organization Development Professional. 

A theatrical fashion show, presented by Gretchen Productions featured fashions from Robinsons-May in Plaza Bonita. A boutique was part of this 34th annual event.

Contact Paula Day 619-475-5020 or phday@cox.net for  more information.

Celebrating 75 years of service, Soroptimist International of San Diego is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas.  Its members join with about 100,000 Soroptimists in more than 120 countries to contribute time and financial support to community-based projects benefiting women. In addition to the Making a Difference for Women Award program, they also participate in the Women's Opportunity Awards program - cash grants for women seeking to improve their economic situation through additional training and/or education

Soroptimists Present the 34th Annual Fashion Show
and 2006 Making a Difference for Women Awards

Saturday, May 13, 2006
Town and Country Hotel, San Diego

Celebrity Models Miss California Galaxy 2006, KUSI Anchor Aimee Fuller, and Show Producer Gretchen Burns
Miss California Galaxy 2006 takes the stage
KUSI Anchor Aimee Fuller & escort
Young singing sensation Francis Florendo
Andrea poses with
BLOOMING POODLES