In her later years, my mother, Alice Ravetti, Woman of the Year 2000, had a sudden decline in health and overnight, I was thrust into the limelight to carry on her commitments to support our dear friend Lois Lehrman, Woman of the Year 2007. I spent several months almost every day from a small table near my mother's bedside, seeking her advice as she tirelessly helped me make sure everything was just right from details such as the guest seating; making and overseeing the arrangements for Frank D'Ambrosio's memorable "Broadway" performance; to the cake "The Lois", that Gary Rulli of Emporio Rulli created and named in Ms. Lehrman's honor to be served at the Ball and offered at the bakery's Union Square location. I remember it all as if it were yesterday, including the amazing opportunity to work with my mother and the Boys' Town committee. Plus, the committee's monthly dinner meetings are absolutely delightful with the best Italian fare one can find in San Francisco. (We owe this to our Ball Chairman, Larry Nibbi!) I truly got back more than I modestly gave to support the children. I'm in the picture above (far right) with Woman of the Year 2007, Lois Lehrman, publisher of the Nob Hill Gazette (middle) and philanthropist, Pamela Deikel (left).
Mary E. Ravetti, Third-Generation Supporter
*Photograph by Drew Altizer of Drew Altizer Photography