Purse Party Benefits Symphony

REDLANDS>> With hundreds of purses to select from, more than 200 people came together Thursday, March 9 for the Redlands Symphony Purse Party held in Redlands. Tickets to the purse party were priced at $40 per person, and all proceeds from the evening will help support the symphony’s annual season of concerts and music education for children ages 8-14 years. Paul Ideker, president and CEO of the Redlands Symphony, said the purse party had a larger attendance this year compared to last year. “It was bigger (and had) more people,” Ideker said. “There were a lot of great purses and if possible, (it was) more fun.” Ideker expressed gratitude for the volunteers who helped make the event a success. “I'm always blown away by the team of volunteers who put this party together,” Ideker said. “They do everything; they plan, make the delicious food, collect purses, sell tickets, work to decorate and arrange the purses, serve the food and some of them still have time to shop.” Ann Bryan, one of the original members of the organizing committee who helped put on the event previously stated that this year’s purse party would be the biggest purse party they have had. “The purse party has evolved into a fun-filled social event, with the added benefit of wonderful purses available at great prices,” Bryan said. The annual event was held at the local residential home of Jill and Matt Jordan. Ideker said the Redlands Symphony is grateful to the Jordans for allowing their home to be used for the event. “Thank you (also) to Ann Bryan for being our fearless leader and all the volunteers, including the groups from the University of Redlands,” Ideker said. Ideker said he would like to also thank the many people who have attended the party for the last four years. “They are there to support Redlands Symphony, our music and the kids we provide music education for,” Ideker said. “We love them very much and are grateful.”