Our Previous Events
Steel Magnolias LB Playhouse
A Social Event
June 1, 2025
The Long Beach Playhouse
Long Beach, CA
When “Steel Magnolias” appeared on the marquee of the Long Beach Playhouse on June 1, the Steel Magnolias could not pass up the opportunity to see the origin of their famous namesake. Long-term member of the Long Beach Steel Magnolias, Judie Johnsen (who is also an active volunteer with the theater), suggested an afternoon excursion to check out the group’s nom de plume. It was serendipity.
A delicious pre-performance luncheon was held at the nearby Crooked Duck Diner. Stephanie Davis and Johnsen arrived early to set up and introduced themselves to their friendly waitress, Ashley Watson. Davis explained who the Steel Magnolias are and its support of the Stramski Center. Watson enthusiastically said she knew all about the center because she had a child who had been a patient there.
“The Stramski Center serves a need that is not available elsewhere,” Watson said.
She also mentioned her admiration for Stramski Center Medical Director Dr. Gary Feldman.
“Dr. Feldman spends the time to know the child,” she said. “He’s insightful and kind.”
Davis, meanwhile, mentioned that Feldman often attends the group’s meetings and has many times said, “Without the Steel Magnolias, there would be no Stramski Center.”
Davis suggested that Watson might want to consider being a part of the group. She agreed.
As the lights dimmed in the theater, the 20 “Steel Magnolias” theater-goers were surprised when play’s announcer gave an introductory of the Steel Magnolias as honored guests and the purpose of the organization. The Steel Magnolias were delighted with the applause from the audience.
Seen at the Scene: Past President Bobbie Fesler, Stephanie Davis, Sherry Loos, Janel Rowden, Victoria Witherington, Hilda Sanchez, Dave Rigby, Judie Johnsen, Dana Buchanan, Marlene Temple, Jacki Stanfield, Marianne Gastelum, Gary Wolf, Carl Lee, Barbara Hall, Mari Hooper, Dorothy Jacobi, Jean Joseph, Dane Hickerson.
By Shirley Wild- Press-Telegram
Copa Havana
A Signature Event
May 4, 2025
The Reef
Long Beach, CA
Steel Magnolias presents Copa Havana – a vibrant, tropical-themed event filled with color, live band, and excitement!
Guests enjoyed a full lunch, hosted beer and wine, and plenty of fun and games in a lively atmosphere reminiscent of Havana nights. The event featured a casino, a silent auction, and an incredible live auction with 30 exclusive items, including a luxurious villa stay in France.
Best of all, proceeds from Copa Havana support the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, helping children with complex developmental and behavioral conditions. A patient from Stramski shared their inspiring story, highlighting the impact of the center’s life-changing programs.
Copa Havana was a hit! Tons of fun; all for the kids! Bravo to Event Chairs Angi Burkard and Debbie Martin-McMullen and the entire Signature Committee. Gratitude to all the volunteers including the students of St. Anthony’s.
Dirtbags Game Day
2025
A Charity Event
April 13, 2025
Blair Field
Long Beach, California
Steel Magnolias teamed up with the Long Beach State Dirtbags, to provide an opportunity for children, sensitive to loud sounds and intense sensory stimulus, to attend a Dirtbags Game on April 13th. All the sounds were turned down for that one game.
Families were provided a complimentary game ticket, hot dogs and snacks.
Autism Acceptance Day
2025
An Autism Awareness Event
April 2, 2025
Miller Children's & Women's Hospital
Long Beach, California
In a remarkable display of unity, community members, patients, staff and families from the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital came together to celebrate Autism Acceptance Day showcasing the importance of support and understanding for neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. Autism Acceptance Day on April 2 marks the beginning of a month-long celebration and advocacy for understanding, compassion and acceptance.
A highlight of the event was the presence of Mini Therapy Horses, who provided a calming and engaging experience for children and families. Patients had the opportunity to interact with the miniature horses, guiding them through engaging tricks such as smiling, high-fiving, and even playing a keyboard. These gentle animals offered a unique form of emotional support, reinforcing the power of alternative therapies in pediatric care.
Patients and families also enjoyed a range of sensory-friendly activities, including slime and fidget toys, and they had the chance to interact with Miller Children’s & Women’s beloved mascot, Millie the Dolphin. Additionally, guests had the opportunity to tour two fire trucks provided by the Long Beach Fire Department.
The Stramski Center at Miller Children’s & Women's is a comprehensive center that cares for children — from birth to age 21 — with behavioral and developmental conditions, such as autism, Fragile X, ADHD/ADD, Down Syndrome, and other learning disabilities. For nearly 50 years, the Stramski Center has continued to provide care for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder by evaluating them for diagnosis and making referrals to specialty centers for additional treatment as needed.
“Autism Acceptance Day is a powerful reminder that neurodivergent individuals deserve not just awareness, but true understanding and inclusion,” says Ioana Pal, Psy.D., licensed clinical psychologist at the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center. “Every day is a triumph over barriers, whether it's difficulties in school, behavioral challenges, or other obstacles. We want all our families to know that we are here for them. Our hospital is here for them. Stramski is here for them. We are committed to working with you to help your children achieve their dreams.”
New Members Brunch
2025
A Social Event
March 8, 2025
Long Beach, California
It’s said that St. Patrick’s Day is a time for joy, blessings — and a little mischief.
The Steel Magnolias took the saying to heart at their gathering on March 8 at past President Bobbie Fesler’s home on March 8.
The St. Paddy’s Day brunch sprouted green all over the place with beautiful, fun décor and many of the 18 or so guests wearing the banner Gaelic green.
Welcoming newish members into the clan included, of course, the offering of Irish coffee (with or without the Irish), green mimosas and a variety of casseroles (all made with extremely valuable eggs) augmented with Irish soda bread.
The founders of the Steel Magnolias playfully passed the blarney by re-creating the beginnings of the group and shared many fun and funny anecdotes, resulting in a 25-year existence, raising more than $6.4 million in the process.
Seen at the scene: Membership committee co-Chairs Sue DeRosa and Melanie Alvitre, hostess Bobbie Fesler, founding members Tony Gagliardi and Shirley Wild, inaugural President Mari Hopper, Stephanie Davis, Sherry Loos, Janel Rowden, Julie Tonks, Victoria Witherington, Marianne Gastelum, Joan Venditozzi, Bobbie Fesler, Debbie Martin, Dana Buchanan, Nancy Briggs.
By Shirley Wild- Press-Telegram
2024 Holiday Party
A Celebration Event
Completing her second year as president of the Steel Magnolias, Bobbie Fesler was the “Star of the Show” at the 25th Annual Holiday Gathering held on Monday, Dec. 9, at Spaghettini’s. There were 65 partygoers who were delighted to witness a donation check for $155,000 presented to Dr. Gary Feldman, medical director of the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital.
Overheard were the many comments of the delicious dining and four people were especially delighted winning the opportunity ticket drawing. Patti Martin won first prize with a $2,000 airline gift card, Paul Diego won a $1,500 hotel gift card, Suzie Price won a shopping spree at Nordstrom and a fourth prize was won by Denise Dahlhausen for a wine country gift card.
Fesler, meanwhile, received accolades for her year-end report. She presented new President Michele Dobson and the new board. Gary Wolf, chairman of the Honorary Founder’s Club, presented Tammy Newland as the newest member of this special group. Dobson accepted the presidency and stated she is excited for the upcoming year and hopes to continue the successes of the Steel Magnolias in the year ahead.
Seen at the scene: Medical Director of the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center Dr. Gary Feldman, Ioana Pal, Steel Magnolia President Bobbie Fesler, 2025 President Michele Dobson, Steel Magnolias Founder Shirley Wild, Founding Chairman Anthony Gagliardi, Mari Hooper, Shirlee Bouch, Tammy Newland, Theresa Brunella, Hilda Sanchez and Dave Rigby, Denise Dahlhausen, Stephanie Davis, Marlene Temple, Liz Krummell, Surina Geoffroy, Sue DeRosa, Sherry Loos, Angi Burkard, Dana Buchanan, Jo Murray, Bonnie Scott, Barbara and Don Hall, Judie Johnsen, Cathy King, Joan Knight, Sherry Loos, Shari Nemirow, Diana and Dave Eastman, Gary and Carl Lee Wolf.
By Shirley Wild- Press-Telegram
December 9, 2024
Spaghettini Restaurant
Seal Beach, California
25th Anniversary
A Celebration Event
October 13, 2024
Pinnacle Entertainment
Santa Ana, California
Steel Magnolias has raised over $6.3 million dollars in its 25 years in existence. We wanted to take a moment to celebrate the success of this wonderful charity and honor our founding members and sponsors of our Signature Events.
There were two outstanding Chefs that provided cooking demonstrations at the event. Chef Shelly Barbre did a wonderful presentation of Mediterranean dips and how to serve them (She was also the 7th Steel Magnolias President). Chef Paul Buchanan of Primal Alchemy gave an very insightful presentation of how to choose and produce a fantastic charcuterie board (although his was the size of a table!). Steel Magnolias was presented with scrolls from Los Angeles County (Janice Hahn), Long Beach (Vice Mayor Allen, Councilmember Austin and Council Member Duggan) celebrating 25 years helping the Long Beach children blossom. Sue DeRosa and Mari Hooper (SM President Emerita) provided craft cocktail demonstration discussing the difference between a Paloma and a Margarita. Raffle prizes were won by 11 lucky people – especially Susan Hill and Carmen Bubar (double winners). Wonderful food provided by Naples Ribs, Boathouse on the Bay and TGIS cheese boards. We enjoyed woodfired pizza and salad from Nona Rosa pizza from a wood burning pizza oven on site. The private collection of pinball machines and the large fountain added to the unique space of the event.
Special guests at the scene were Founders Shirley Wild and Anthony Gagliardi, Mari Hooper, and Dr. James and Karen Wells. In addition to the five main founders of Steel Magnolias, we were blessed to have Stephanie Davis and Judie Johnson, two Charter members who have been with us from the beginning. Other notables: Councilmember Kristina Duggan, Paige McCracken from Vice Mayor Cindy Allen’s office, Representatives from Councilmember Al Austin and an honorary scroll from Janice Hahn’s office celebrating our 25 years in existence. Other Seen at the Scene: Bobbie and Don Fesler (President of Steel Magnolias), Michele Dobson (President Elect of SM), Hilda Sanchez and Dave Rigby (SM Treasurer), Susan and Lee Hill (SM Recording Secretary), Tammy Newland and Ken Shishido (SM Signature Event Chair 2024), Sue DeRosa (SM Membership Chair), Sherry Loos (SM Membership Chair), Debbie Martin-McMullen (SM Signature Event Chair 2025), Denise Dahlhausen (Past President SM), Chef Paul and Dana Buchanan (SM Parlimentarian), Chef Shelly Barbre (Past SM President), Surina Geoffroy (SM Liaison to Stramski Center), Dr. Iona Pal (Stramski Center), Marianne Gastelum, Carmen and Dave Bubar, Valerie Uyeda and Larry Silva, Gary Lee Wolf, Carl Lee, Janel and Steve Rowden, Pam Luckey, Loree Scarborough and Dennis McConkey, Paul Diego, Renae Furlow, and Dian Morris (Harold Brown Foundation)
By Shirley Wild- Press-Telegram
Let’s Chill Out!
A Social Event
August 13, 2024
The Chill Spot
Long Beach, California
An Ice Cream Social with the Steel Magnolias twist!
We Beat the heat and visited with friends while enjoying a glass of wine and participated in an ice cream tasting contest!
Dirtbags Game Day
A Charity Event
Long Beach, Calif. - On Sunday May 20, Long Beach State and Steel Magnolias will host "Game Day", an event in connection with the Dirtbags 1 p.m. game against Pacific, which will benefit the Geraldine Stramski Children's Developmental Center at Miller's Children's Hospital in Long Beach, Calif. There are three primary objectives for Game Day: One, raise funds for the Stramski Center; two, increase awareness about the services offered through Stramski; and three, provide an afternoon of fun for the patients of Stramski and their families. Long Beach State and the Steel Magnolias, a Long Beach-area not-for-profit volunteer group, have joined forces to ensure that these goals are met and that Game Day maximizes its positive effect for the Stramski Center.
Complimentary tickets, food, prizes and entertainment will be provided to the Stramski Center patients and their families. Complete proceeds from tickets sales through this promotion will be donated back to the Stramski Center.
The Geraldine Stramski Children's Developmental Center
The Stramski Children's Development Center is a multidiscipline team of highly trained professionals who care for the needs of children and families facing life long challenges. Under the direction of Dr. Gary Feldman, the medical director of the Center, children with birth defects, autism, chronic diseases, developmental problems, cleft lip and palate, speech, hearing and vision problems, attention deficit disorder, and many other problems that may interfere with the normal mental, emotional, social and academic development of a child can have their needs met in a professional and loving manner. The Stramski Center often serves as the transitional care center for infants and toddlers, who have developmental delay following hospitalization in either the NICU or PICU. The Stramski Center also houses an International Adoption Program that provides consultation, evaluation and counseling to families that are in the process of adopting a child from another country.
More information about the Stramski Center can be found at millerchildrenshospitallb.org/stramski.
Steel Magnolias
The Steel Magnolias are a Long Beach community group that began in 1999 with a mission to raise funds and to promote goodwill and the public's awareness of the needs and services of the Stramski Children's Developmental Center. In the past thirteen years the Steel Magnolias have raised close to $3,000,000 in support of the Stramski Center. The money has been raised primarily at the annual Gala and the Home Tour, which has become one of the group's most popular events and draws a crowd of more than 700.
May 20, 2024
Blair Field
Long Beach, California
Run For the Roses
A Signature Event
April 28, 2024
The Reef
Long Beach, California
Taking their lead from the pomp and ceremony of the Kentucky Derby, the Steel Magnolias, a support group of the Stramski Center, recently followed that famous equestrian theme with “Run for the Roses.” The event included raffle packages, silent and live auctions, wine/liquor pulls, and a champagne tasting.
The event, on April 28 at The Reef, boasted a crowd of more than 200 people, who enjoyed a delectable lunch and silent auction before they began the lively program. There was a parade of members wearing beautiful hat creations, with Gary Wolf winning the competition. Paul Diego showed off a powerful costume design, a Darth Vader-inspired “hat” and full regalia costume, created by Anthony Gagliardi.
The attendees were caught up in cheering for their “horse” in the derby race. Feedbags held the donation tickets that were purchased for the “horses and their trainers.” The prize tickets determined the winners of the race.
Overall, the event raised more than $120,000.
A lively auction was held for stunning items, including a diamond ring and a beautiful opal. There was laughter at the seeming coincidence that hubby David Rigby had the high bid on a popular item — each time his wife, Hilda Sanchez, left the room.
Steel Magnolias raises funds to benefit children with developmental delays, behavioral and learning challenges and other special needs. All funds raised at this event will benefit the Stramski Center at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Long Beach.
To honor Volunteer Month, platinum nametags were given to longtime Steel Magnolia supporters: Marlene Temple, Mari Hooper Shirlee Bouch, Anthony Gagliardi, Joan Knight, Mari Hooper and Hilda Sanchez. Also recognized were Platinum Members who were not in attendance: Judy McNulty Black, Mary Alice Braly, Gloria Deukmejian, and Dane Hickerson.
Seen at the scene: President Bobbie Fesler, President Elect Michele Dobson, Event Chairs and Past Presidents Tammy Newland and Theresa Brunella, Founder Shirley Wild, Founding Chairman of the Board Anthony Gagliardi, Angi Burkard, Debbie Martin-McMullen, Stephanie Davis, Sue DeRosa, Sherry Loos, Shari Nemirow, Janel Rowden, Hilda Sanchez, Gary Lee Wolf, Carl Lee, Richard Brown, Barbara Gaylord, Jill Rosenberg, Gail Schwandner, Cheryl Doorbar, Robbie Butler.
By Shirley Wild- Press-Telegram
LBCC Adaptive Sports Fair
A Children’s Empowerment Event
April 13, 2024
Long Beach City College
Long Beach, California
Letsbeplaymakers.org invited athletes to explore a diverse range of sports and recreational activities at the Adaptive Sports Fair held at The Long Beach City College! The organization specializes in coaching and adapting some of the most-loved sports and recreational programs for people with disabilities. Athletes were encouraged to bring your friends and family to this event to try a sport for the first time or showcase their athletic skills. Activities included baseball, basketball, dance, martial arts, yoga, boccia and more!
Steel Magnolias members had a wonderful time volunteering. They passed out treats, had Steel Magnolias information on hand and were readily available to hang out with the athletes and answer any questions they may have had about The Stramski Center and how Steel Magnolias helps the community.
Miller’s Children’s and Women’s Hospital
Long Beach for Autism Acceptance Day
An Autism Awareness Event
April 2, 2024
Our Steel Magnolias Members were there to help represent The Stramski Children’s Developmental Center!!!
Long Beach Airport
Long Beach, California
Take Flight Over Fear
A Children’s Empowerment Event
March 2, 2024
On Saturday, March 2, the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach, in collaboration with the Long Beach Airport, proudly hosted the inaugural “Take Flight Without Fear” event. This groundbreaking initiative provided neurodivergent children and their families with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in airport culture, fostering confidence, independence, and empowerment in children with various abilities.
Upon arrival at the Long Beach Airport, attendees received travel backpacks, filled with travel necessities such as snacks and sensory toys. Patients from the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center were welcomed by Juan Lopez-Rios, deputy director of the Long Beach Airport; Megan Kerr, councilwoman, District 5; Gary Feldman, M.D., medical director, Stramski Children’s Developmental Center; and Kevin Meno, Long Beach Airport’s resident volunteer, who is also on the spectrum. In attendance were several volunteers and donors supporting Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, the Long Beach Airport, and the community efforts of exploring the feasibility of becoming an autism-certified city.
The Steel Magnolias – an all-volunteer organization that has been raising funds for the Stramski Center since 1999 – donated their time and resources to help children cope before this immersive and overwhelming experience.
The experience included a tour of the airport facilities, where patients and their caregivers received mock boarding passes and guidance on navigating security screening and procedures from TSA officers.
“This is a transformative experience for our neurodivergent patients,” says Gary Feldman, M.D., medical director, Stramski Children’s Developmental Center. “Travel opens up new horizons, fosters confidence, and breaks down barriers, and this event is a testament to our commitment at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital to create inclusive opportunities that empower everyone, regardless of their unique abilities, to navigate the world.”
After being screened, patients were escorted by Long Beach Airport volunteers to their designated gate, where they awaited the unique opportunity to board a flight ramp and experience the sights and sounds of an airplane up close. Participants were able to watch planes take off and land, a popular hobby among neurodivergent individuals. Afterward, they celebrated their newfound skills with a visit to baggage claim, marking the completion of their training run.
“At Long Beach Airport, we’re more than just a hub for flights; we’re a gateway to dreams,” says Cynthia Guidry, airport director, Long Beach Airport. “Let’s show these children that the sky’s the limit and empower them to navigate through life’s journeys with confidence and courage.”
The collaboration between Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital and the Long Beach Airport underscores the shared commitment to inclusivity and support for the neurodiverse individuals within the community, further emphasizing the city’s dedication to creating welcoming spaces for all residents.
Long Beach Airport
Long Beach, California
Let’s Get Down and Derby
A Signature Event
2023
Over 200 guests gathered at Los Alamitos Racetrack in support of Steel Magnolias. We had a hat-making party to get in the spirit and guests and supporters showed up in their finest rags! We netted $84,182 for the Stramski Children’s Center.
“Let’s get Down and Derby – May the Horse Be with You” attracted nearly 200 attendees got into the spirit of the day by wearing regal finery with elaborate hats and seersucker suits - Marina and Rob Ascarate were standouts!
The theme began unfolding with the cheery greetings from the St. Anthony High School student-volunteer guides, who wore festive jockey-style hats as they guided guests to “The Finish Line Private Dining Room.” There, they were treated as celebrities when posing for photos, taken by Caught in the Moment photography.
The Kentucky Derby milieu was underscored in every detail of Southern traditions, including mint tuleps. Guests dined on tables decorated with an elaborate red-and-white rose centerpiece that showcased dramatic ironwork horse-head profiles above horse-head-shaped bottles of Cabell tequila.
Karen Cobb of Kacey’s Karaoke kept the atmosphere lively as guests participated in fun activities included a silent auction, whiskey and bourbon tastings, and a wine pull. Then there was a parade of elaborate hats worn by guests, with the winner going home with a horse-head-shaped bottle of tequila.
Great enthusiasm and audience participation was shown during the “Spouses Race to Win, Place or Show.” Handlers carrying authentic feedbags collected “ticket-bets” on the husband-and-wife teams: “Blazing Saddlers,” with handler Val Uyeda; “Ole Blu,” Cathy King; “Son of a Biscuit,” Angi Burkard; “Mighty Mark,” Claire Guillen; “Run Ron Run,” Marianne Gastelum; and “Dapper Don,” Bobbie Fesler.
Zack Krone, the lively and humorous auctioneer, had the audience bidding against themselves and their neighbors, and seemingly loving every minute of it. Laughter reigned with his innovative approach to separate the audience from their wallets.
It was an evening where everyone went home as winners — with more than $70,000 raised for the Stramski Children’s Development Center. Dr. Gary Feldman, director of the center, thanked guests for their participation and introduced a brief film depicting the care the children receive at the center, which helps with developmental delays, autism behavior and learning challenges, among other needs. MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center was represented by Rob Gonsalus, Dr. Robert Nagourney and Iona Pal (who donated two of her paintings to the auction).