Local women, jewelry designer raise funds for Mary Bridge Children's Hospital

Ernesto Moreira, internationally acclaimed jewelry designer, is teaming up with Puyallup's Karshner Orthopedic Guild on October 12 and 13 to raise funds for Mary Bridge Children's Hospital.  

The centerpiece of the two-day event is "Jewels and Jazz" to be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday evening, October 13, at Johnson Jewelers, 103 South Meridian in downtown Puyallup.   Karshner Guild members are planning the event, which will feature Ernesto Moreira, a Latin jazz duo, tapas and wines as well as a silent auction and raffle.   Advance ticket purchase is required.   For more information, contact Johnson Jewelers at 253.848.1332.

Moreira and his distinctive, elegant jewelry will also be featured both days at Johnson Jewelers, with 15% of sales going directly to support critical health care needs at Mary Bridge.  

 "Guild members are thrilled that an artist of Moreira's stature and influence is coming to Puyallup and supporting Mary Bridge Children's Hospital," Pam Nathan, Guild member, said.   "It's a great opportunity for the greater Puyallup community to meet him and offer their support as well."

Born in Cuba and raised in Spain, Moreira's Latin influences are evident in his award-winning jewelry designs.   At age 19, he was featured in his first gallery exhibit and continued to publicly display his work throughout his college career, winning numerous scholarships.  
He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry Design from the University of Houston, and Master of Fine Arts in Jewelry Design from the Rochester Institute of Technology – School for American Crafts.

Recent displays of Moreira's work include the 2006 Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles and the 2007 Academy Awards.   He was also commissioned by the Houston Museum of Natural Science to craft a permanent collection for the museum's Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals.

Thirty women from Puyallup and surrounding communities raise funds for Mary Bridge Children's Hospital through the Dr. Warner M. Karshner Orthopedic Guild.   The Guild celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2007.