A September 1 fundraiser benefiting the nonprofit organization FleaHab will feature a diverse selection of tasty and seasonal food from various Santa Cruz businesses. See end of article for details on food.
Catering company DeVine Pairings is donating its time to the FleaHab fundraiser on September 1
The mission of FleaHab is to integrate exercise and a healthy lifestyle into the recovery process for those afflicted with drug or alcohol addiction. Money raised will support the next phase in FleaHab’s approach to recovery, which is a sober living facility in Santa Cruz County. As founder Darryl “Flea” Virostko states, “FleaHab is a place where people who are recovering from addiction can live and get back to the healthy activities they enjoy. Activities include surfing, skateboarding, tennis, golf, biking, hiking, and camping. For those unfamiliar with Virostko, the world-famous surfer is a three-time Mavericks Champion who struggled with addiction in the past; he is now sober and giving back to his community.
The September 1 event is from 3-8 p.m. at a Santa Cruz residence (you must buy tickets ahead of time online). Tickets are $35 per person (or $50 with an autographed FleaHab t-shirt); children under 13 are free. Donations and ticket purchases are tax-deductible. The food at the party is being prepared by DeVine Pairings using seasonal ingredients donated by local businesses including Shopper’s Corner and Beckmann’s Bakery. Mobo Sushi has also donated some sushi that will be served at the fundraiser. The ticket price includes food plus wine.
Music will be performed by Singing Wood and the Vista Roots Band. Other highlights include a pool, kids’ activities, and a silent auction. Auction items include restaurant gift certificates, wine (including some donated by Santa Cruz Mountain Winery and Armida), art, box seats for the SF Giants, spa treatments, kayak rentals, and autographed Mavericks photos of Flea.
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FleaBites (3-6 p.m.)
Shrimp Ceviche with avocado
Veggie Ragout with seasonal vegetables, herbs and feta finished with balsamic/ olive oil dressing, feta cheese and roasted seasoned pecans
Samosas filled with spiced potatoes, peas and onions.
Tomato Bruschetta with capers, basil, mozzarella and white truffle oil
Grilled Chicken Lettuce cups with sweet chili sauce, mushrooms and ginger
Assorted Sushi
Antipasto and Cheese
FleaBites (4-5:30 p.m.)
Mini Braised Meatball Subs with Ricotta Cheese
California Chicken Sliders with chipotle aioli
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Sliders with fresh herbs and vinaigrette dressing
Antipasto and Cheese
FleaBites (6:30-8 p.m.)
Chocolate Fountain with seasonal fruit, marshmallows, pound cake
Coffee Bar
Cheese and fruit plate
Heart of Technology is hosting the event. The San Jose-based non-profit organization advocates fundraising to improve local communities. Heart of Technology founder Jim Hogan says, “At the heart of technology are people with passion for innovation and positive change. Our support of FleaHab and its sober living environment is about harnessing that innovative spirit to beyond code and silicon, and affect change that not only betters individual lives, but the overall community to help it remain strong and continue to thrive.”
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