The first social event of the 2008-2009 Silver Rose Guild Debutante season kicked off with an elegant tea on Sept. 27 at the Newhall home of Mr.and Mrs.Kenny Linn.

After being escorted to a gazebo by Silver Rose big sisters, the new class of debutantes were presented silver rose medallions to wear throughout the year by their parents.

"We wish to thank the parents for lending their daughters to us for this program. We're very excited about getting started," said Catherine Montoya, Guild president.

Eight of the nine high school seniors in the program were presented by Virginia Hart, Silver Rose chair, including Kebra Elizabeth Sedam, Alexandra Nicole Crowder, Noelle Chadbourne and Kaila Marie Caroline Pascua of Hart High School, Sarah Nicole Turchan of Flintridge High School, Jennifer Rios of Saugus High School, Laura Rose When of Academy of the Canyons and Heather Kate Duncan of OFL. Katie Megan Baker of Hart High School was not present.

"Noelle's really excited about doing this and we think it ''s good for her," said Angela Chadbourne. "She's already learned about party etiquette and the other skills she'll discover here are going to be very useful for her future."

Now in its 23rd year, The Silver Rose Debutante program requires 50 hours of community service, including planning and attending hospital fundraisers as well as a season of exciting events, culminating with a Grand Ball in March.

Registration costs for the program are $1,500 for the year and debutante's families are also required to sell a table of10 seats at the Grand Ball. Funds raised from the debutante program benefit laboratory services at Henry Mayo.

Shawnie Wise-Hawkins, a 2007-2008 Silver Rose debutante, watched proudly as the new class of debutantes mingled after the introduction. Wise-Hawkins, who is currently enrolled at Glendale Community College and plans to transfer to USC or UCLA to major in political science, is now a Silver Rose Guild big sister.

"This program helped me become a better person. I really love going out to the community and doing service," Wise-Hawkins said.

Volunteering is also high on the list for current debutante Laura When, 17. "I just enjoy helping others a lot and this is a really good opportunity to get involved in the Santa Clarita Valley," When said.

While the debutantes presented already have an impressive resume of athletic, artistic, or altruistic achievement, the debutante program adds another dimension to their lives, according to Montoya.

"This is a fantastic way for these young ladies to meet like-minded friends, become more self-confident and have a lot of fun," Montoya said. "The debutante season really brings enrichment to their lives, and to the lives of their families, while benefiting their local hospital and the patients it serves."

For more informationabout the Henry Mayo Guild Silver Rose Debutante program, call the foundation office at 661-253-8082 or visit www.henrymayo.com.