Ragazza is hosting a benefit to raise cash for a former staff member who was among the targets of a violent crime last month. The Jan. 24 fundraiser aims to raise funds to help with the victim's medical bills and other expenses ― 100 percent of the proceeds from the night's three seatings will go to the fund, says Alisha Ardiana, partner of Ragazza's Sharon Ardiana. Because of the sensitive nature of the events (and to protect the victims' identity), the organizers prefer not to link the fundraiser to news reports of the attack.
Alisha Ardiana says the restaurant is also organizing a benefit auction slated for eBay, Jan. 20-30. The swag pledged so far includes a customized dinner for two at Flour + Water; dinner for eight in your home, cooked by Frances's Melissa Perello; dinner for four at Nopa with owner Laurence Jossel and wine director Chris Deegan; and a custom cake big enough for 40 by Elizabeth Falkner. The final list of auction items should be nailed down by Jan. 5.
You can also send a tax-deductible cash donation to benefit the victims of the crime, made out to the fundraiser's fiscal partner, La Cocina. Directions on how to donate at the event website.
Ragazza Fundraiser
When: Mon., Jan. 24; seatings at 5, 7, and 9 p.m.
Where: Ragazza, 311 Divisadero (at Page), 255-1133
Reservations: E-mail Laurie at laurie@aocsf.com Parties of four or fewer preferred (the restaurant will try to accommodate larger parties at the 5 p.m. seating)
Follow us on Twitter: @sfoodie. Contact me at John.Birdsall@SFWeekly.com
