THE COVETED ROMANCE of the Mission benefit gala returns to historic Mission San Juan Capistrano on Friday, Sept. 12.
Supporting the preservation and stewardship of the Mission, the board of the Mission Preservation Foundation recently announced event honorees Myron Sukut and Mozelle Sukut Ph.D. for their many contributions to Mission San Juan Capistrano.
“We take exceptional pride in being longtime advocates for all things good in San Juan Capistrano,” said Myron and Mozelle Sukut. “It has been a special joy for us to see the Mission emerge from past challenges to becoming the centerpiece of a thriving, meaningful community. We were especially inspired to support the Mission’s impact on children’s learning about cultures and history. We both believe Mission San Juan Capistrano is worthy of support and are pleased that our efforts have helped it to grow and become a vibrant place serving the community.”
The couple moved to San Juan Capistrano in 1989 and have a strong history of supporting local causes. Mozelle Sukut was instrumental in creating the Artifacts Council and Gardening Angels at the Mission and organized several World Weaving Expos to celebrate the art form. She served on the city’s Cultural Heritage Commission and is currently on the city’s 250th Anniversary Celebration committee. Myron Sukut is the founder of Santa Ana-based Sukut Construction, well respected in the county’s construction industry. He previously served on the Mission Preservation Foundation Board and was instrumental in building the Boys & Girls Club of Capistrano Valley.
“I’ve known and worked with Myron for many years and he and Mozelle’s commitment and generosity to San Juan Capistrano, specifically the Mission, is extensive,” said Mission Preservation Board Chair George O’Connell. “These special friends have done so much to help and make a difference here and while we know they typically don’t like publicity; it is our honor and duty to honor their many contributions. On behalf of the board of the Mission Preservation Foundation, we look forward to celebrating this very special couple on Sept. 12.
A magnificent live concert in the 19th century Ruins of the Great Stone Church will feature singer-songwriter Abi Carter. The Coachella Valley native singer song writer was the season 22 winner of American Idol. In 2024, she released her album “Ghosts in the Backyard”, a nostalgic, story-driven collection of music that allows listeners to get to know the person behind the powerful voice. Gala attendees will experience an inspiring and dynamic concert by Carter that aims to encourage others in their own journeys.
Among the major supporters are the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, the gala’s hospitality and catering sponsor. Other returning partners include Eden and George O’Connell/O’Connell Family Foundation, Tony and Melinda Moiso/The Moiso Family, Kerry and Gavin S. Herbert Jr./Roger’s Gardens, Dame Connie and Dr. Peter Spenuzza, D Lighting, Brite Ideas, BBJ La Tavola Specialty Linen, Signature Elevated Rentals, Brand Enhance Parking & Hospitality and many others.
The Gala’s 2025 opportunity drawing tickets are $100 and include packages from Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Four Seasons Napa Valley, exquisite cut diamond earrings by Lugano, a Discovery Cube experience and an original painting Morning Light at the Mission by David Imlay.
General gala details and underwriting opportunities are available online. For specific underwriting opportunities or to make a donation for the Mission’s preservation, contact Mechelle Lawrence Adams at (949) 234-1311 or email [email protected]. For opportunity drawing tickets or to be added to the Gala wait list, contact Mariela Martinez at (949) 234-1312 or email [email protected].
For general details about Mission San Juan Capistrano, visit www.missionsjc.com