Annual Black & White Cigar Dinner Gala in San Francisco
Saturday night, the San Francisco Cigar Company had its Annual Black & White Cigar Dinner Gala and boy was it a doozy! Jim Ervin hosts this yearly Sold-Out event which requires attendees to wear specifically Black or White or a blend of each. It clearly is a “Dressy” event with men wearing suits and ties, many in tuxes, and the ladies in evening gowns or elegant separates. Some took this very seriously and limousines were the transportation of choice. Don and Joanne Wilson, Bill and Gail Jones and Ralph and Joan Brignone were seen getting out of their stretch limos.
This year’s gala was held at the swanky San Francisco Italian Athletic Club where Jim is a member. The ballroom was decorated in the themed colors with candlelit tables. Event hostess, the elegantly attired Cecelia Jimenez, greeted guests at the door and directed them to the photo spot where professional Eli Pita took pictures. Locals Jimmy and Hamada Yamini, Ken DeCrosta, and Bob and Barbara Rossi were seen posing for a few shots.
The event always showcases a person of interest. This year 13 Time Pizza Champion, Tony Gemignani, was honored for his achievements including hosting his inaugural Pizza, Bagel and Beer Festival in North Beach, and being named Grand Marshal of the San Francisco Italian Heritage Parade. Also on hand at Tony’s table were his wife, Julie, and staff members Julie Gregg, Rebecca Scaramuzzino, Jen Scaramuzzino and Oscar Venegas. With all kinds of locals in attendance, the room was buzzing with the news that Tony was opening a new Slice House on Castro Valley Boulevard at Marketplace Square. Tony started his illustrious career at Castro Valley's Pyzano’s Pizza years ago and is nothing short of a legend in the pizza industry with world class restaurants in North Beach (Napolitano’s and Capos) plus his signature slice locations at Oracle Park, Levi Stadium, Chase Center and the newly opened Sphere in Las Vegas. Look for the Castro Valley Grand Opening after the first of the year.
Seen having lively conversations at my table were Bill and Cathy Lemas, Honorable Teresa Canepa, Mike and Deb Delaney, Starr La Salle and SFIAC VP Chuck Canepa and his wife, Denise.
The event always features some lively entertainment and this year was no different. The band started playing Sinatra tunes and the dance floor started filling up. Some of the guests seen cutting a rug were SFIAC President Manuele La Torre and Stacey; Board Members Jim and Terri Anderson, and Chris Di Giacomo and his wife, Dr Jennifer Di Giacomo. One attendee said that she hadn’t seen so much enthusiasm on the dance floor since New Year’s Eve 1999! Sinatra with a taste of Bobby Darin and Frankie Valli ……. Oh What a Night!!
For 33 years, San Francisco Cigar & Gifts award winning stores are known for showcasing the best selection of super premium cigars, cigar accessories, apparel, sports and entertainment memorabilia. The San Leandro location is located on MacArthur Boulevard in San Leandro. Stop by and say hello to Jim. He is always happy to meet new neighbors and friends.