Oceanside Mottino YMCA Gala Event

OCEANSIDE – The spotlight literally will be on the Oceanside Mottino YMCA this Saturday evening as the Y goes Hollywood for its annual gala Joe and Mary Mottino fundraiser.  Spotlights will scan the sky at the Y facility, guiding guests arriving to the Y facility at 4701 Mesa Drive where they will be greeted by photographers and a red carpet, leading them into the “Kids Need Heroes” event from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

Among the several awards being made that evening will be the “Good Corporate Citizen Award” to the Oceanside-based biotech pioneer company, Genentech, for the firm’s many contributions over the years to local organizations and its positive economic impact on the community.

An outstanding young member of the Y community will receive the Youth of Good Character Award for demonstrating leadership and positive growth through the adherence to the YMCA’s core values of Honesty, Integrity, Caring and Responsibility.

The first “Joe and Mary Mottino Hero Award,” named for the Y’s namesake, will be given posthumously to the Mottinos for their lifelong commitment and philanthropy to the communities of Oceanside and Vista.  Their daughter, Felinda Mottino, of New York will be at the ceremony to accept the award. The Mottinos were inducted into the Vista Hall of Fame earlier this year.

The poolside fundraising event will feature live music, tapas and cocktails as well as live and silent auctions and raffles throughout the evening. The funds raised will help the Y provide camps, child care, sports, swim and healthy living opportunities to underprivileged families throughout the community.

Tickets are $50 per adult and $90 for couples with a separate Child Watch Program.  Kids are included in the adult ticket price.) Tickets can be purchased by calling 760-758-0808, Ext. 117 or visiting www.mottino.ymca.org/heroes.