Press Releases


Wine and food event benefits Marello Youth Retreat Center

A vintage year predicted!

Loomis –Reds, Whites, Jazz & Blues 2009 occurs on Saturday, June 20, 2009 promising a “vintage year” complete with excellent wine and food, great music, a showcase of classic cars, a fantastic silent auction, raffles and a spectacular setting.  Hosted by the Oblates of St. Joseph, the event begins at 6:00 and continues to 10:30 p.m. on Mt. St. Joseph seminary grounds. The fundraiser benefits Marello Youth Retreat Center.  It also highlights the good work of youth ministry leaders and coordinators with the Marello Youth Leadership Awards in collaboration with the Diocese of Sacramento.

Guests will enjoy tastes of red and white wines poured by wineries from Placer, Lodi, South Sacramento River and Napa wineries.  Samples of restaurant food fare also will be featured by area restaurants. Specialty desserts top off the evening while great jazz and blues fill the air.  Silent auction and raffle activities add to the scheduled fun along with Marello Concourse d’Elegance – a new feature this year with selected classic cars. The evening ticket is $75 per person. 

 “This will be the third year we’ve held this wine and food event, but our 9th annual fundraiser to benefit Marello Youth Retreat Center” says Mt. St. Joseph Seminary Rector Fr. Phil Massetti, OSJ.  “This event allows us to turn the generosity of others into meaningful experiences for young people” he adds.

“Reds, Whites, Jazz & Blues provides a wonderful evening out, with something for everyone to enjoy,” event organizer Lynette Magnino says.  “Plus, it’s a great way to learn about different wineries and restaurants as guests can sample and taste the distinctive flavors and foods of businesses committed to supporting youth programs like Marello Youth Retreat Center,” she continues.  Magnino also explains that in this economy, when people choose to spend a night out, everyone is looking for value.  “A nice dinner with wine, and tickets to the movies or show, can quickly add up to $150 or more, depending on selections.  Comparatively, an evening like Reds, Whites, Jazz & Blues gives a range of options in food and wine, two live bands playing smooth jazz and classic, bluesy rock, dancing, an extensive silent auction, unbelievable raffle opportunities, and a car show.  It’s hard to beat that when you consider that the proceeds benefit youth!” Magnino points out.   

At a special 4:00 p.m. Mass preceding the event, exemplary youth leaders and youth ministers will be recognized to emphasize the important work of those devoted to reaching out to young people.

Gold sponsors for the event include Hubacher Cadillac, and Pottery World. Both businesses have generously supported the event this year to guarantee a “vintage year”! 

Guests will enjoy wineries from throughout Northern California, including:

  • Vina Castellano (Auburn),

  • Monticelli Brothers (Napa),

  • Carvalho Winery (Clarksburg),

  • Trinitas Cellars (Napa),

  • Rancho Roble Vineyards (Lincoln),

  • Secret Ravine Winery (Loomis),

  • Ophir Wines (Newcastle) and more! 

Restaurants include Boudin Bakery, Rubio’s, Pottery World Café, Tapa the World, Beach Hut Deli, Priya Indian Restaurant, Toast, and many other food specialists.

As tasters taste and sippers sip, jazz music will provide the perfect backdrop. Jazz N’ Samba will play until 8 p.m., and On Air will play from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Both bands return this year after rave reviews from last year’s guests. As the hills of Loomis become a “little” wine country, the gathering encourages attire that is appropriate for a warm, outdoor setting.

The silent auction will offer guests an impeccable selection of fine art, sports memorabilia, home décor, and jewelry. Plus, popular “packages,” dinners and services complement the presentation of unique auction gift items. The always-popular raffle baskets add extra thrill to the evening. A new special feature includes a heavenly dessert bar by Divine Desserts in Loomis. The sweet creations will be unveiled as the dancing begins.

Marello Youth Retreat Center is a beautiful mission-style retreat center that offers retreats for youth and young adults, collaborating with youth ministers, teachers and religious education directors to strengthen the spiritual convictions of young people. The Oblates of St. Joseph, an order of priests and brothers founded by St. Joseph Marello, operate Marello Youth Retreat Center with a mission of ensuring the welfare of youth.

For raffle tickets, invitations or general information, contact Pat Murphy at (916)366-8300.

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