“Masquerade” was the theme of the 19^th annual Bras for a Cause sponsored by Soroptimist International of Glendale. On Saturday, thanks to the lifting of COVID restrictions, pandemic masks were lowered in favor of masquerade masks. 

Wall-to-wall decorated bras were the décor at Glendale’s Glen Arden Club, hosting over 200 supporters. The bras demonstrate the Soroptimist’s dedication to empowering women and girls as well as breast cancer services and other women’s healthcare services in Glendale and La Crescenta.    

State Assemblywoman Laura Friedman, a breast cancer survivor, is also a new member of Soroptimist.  At the podium, she spoke of the community volunteers who decorated the bras representing the evening’s theme. 

One of those decorated bras was the creation of Susan “Purple” Jekarl who was also the mistress of ceremonies for the evening.  Jekarl titled her flowered bra, “The Plague Doctor is In,” representing the 14th century Black Death pandemic when flowers and herbs adorned masks covering what was believed to be vapors from the deaths of that era. Jekarl’s bra won the “Most Unique Bra” of the evening. 

“I don’t want to scare people,” said Jekarl.       

Honored for their many contributions to the community were Sandy and Doug Schultz. Posthumously honored was Art Devine, late husband of Glendale Mayor Paula Devine who was present at the event. Paula is a past president of Glendale Soroptimist.    

Bras for a Cause fundraisers are used by many chapters of Soroptimist International. The theme was inspired by member Kathy Lefkovits, who was also present.   

Soroptimist’s previous Bras for a Cause netted $20,000 used for education grants for women. 

Submitted by Ruth SOWBY