Posted by Barb Alberts on Dec 11, 2023

A spectacular turnout (80 attendees) at RCRB’s Holiday Dinner 2023! 

As we enjoyed good food, spirits, and friends President Jim Reid called the meeting to order and we renewed our commitment to our values by reciting the 4-Way Test. President Jim thanked the many meeting volunteers, and then we pledged our allegiance to our nation’s flag.

The outstanding talent and youthful spirit of the Rancho Bernardo High School’s Madrigals ushered in our evening of holiday cheer. The students impressed and entertained us with a variety of arrangements in English, Hebrew, French, Old English, and German. We learned about the academic standard required of students in this prestigious classical vocal ensemble and of the well-rounded group’s participation in sports, theater, and other school activities. While honoring the Club’s tradition of hosting the Madrigals for more than two decades, we thanked them with a $500 gift. Stirred by their performance and fond memories as a former band/chorus Mom, Athenea Luciano matched this gift. NOTE: The Madrigal and RH Middle School advance choir Holiday Concert is at 7 P.M. on Wed 12/13/2023 at POWAY Performing Arts Center.

Greeter Gary Saks and “maestro” Joel Doss helped us welcome our many guests with warmth and song.

President-Elect Terry Heck shared the good news about the terrific response from volunteers for Club Board positions and encouraged strong attendance at the annual meeting (December 14) to vote. 

Camel shenanigans continued with light-hearted recognition and roasting of President Jim by John Mullin and Judy Lutticken. They also presented Jim with an animation of “The Camel,” created by the talented Judy! Kudos to the Camel; $520 raised year to date!

Happy Bucks continued to delight as Athenea welcomed and occasionally coaxed good news from many. We celebrated the introduction of new friends; appreciation for service, teamwork, and leadership; the community Menorah & Tree Lighting with a reception at Lucia, and a special anniversary, to name a few. 

President Jim and the Club thanked Athenea who managed the holiday dinner as we enjoyed the terrific appetizers, bar (& Leo), meal, dessert, and table sweets, along with the excellent service and decorations of The Heights Golf Club. 

Speaking of talent; (WOW!) Fine Woodworker, John Goodrich, generously donated two of his beautiful hand-crafted pieces for the Club’s benefit. Both he and his wife, Deborah, shared details about the works’ stunning woods and their finishes. A successful auction that raised $725 by Athenea and Bob Vaughn ensued. Many thanks, John!

Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays to all! 

May each of our celebrations bring hope and bright light to the world. 

 

Respectfully submitted, 

Barb Alberts