A Note from our Co-Presidents:
CHRISTY WILSON and JANET EVANS
Grow Where You Are Planted
For most people, at least in the western world, Auld Lang Syne has become a symbol of
the coming of the new year. Written in 1788 by Robert Burns, it reminds us to remember
the old times and the long-standing cherished friendships that we have made. The lyrics sing about friends who share a cup o’ kindness in celebration of good times past as well as the anticipation of what will come. We hope that you have all experienced many cups o’ kindness with each other this year!
The Village Garden Club of La Jolla is enjoying a great year. But that didn’t come accidentally or effortlessly. Full credit goes to those members who have generously volunteered their time and talents for the betterment of our Club and the committees we serve. Some of them you see standing at the podium at monthly meetings. Some chair committees and projects. Others work anonymously behind the scenes. But it’s thanks to their individual and collective efforts that we can enjoy this truly great Club.
Programs, co-chaired by Chris Andrews and Nancy Cunningham, and workshops led by Taunya Daley and Beth Evanco, continue to inspire and inform. Each month brings new ideas, engaging speakers and fresh enthusiasm.
Cherished traditions continue to flourish. MarketPlace, led by Cynthia Bond and Dianne Holmes, is a Club favorite. The Holiday Pantry, chaired by Robin Vandever with the help of her talented committee, was beautifully presented and filled with the generous home-baked goods of our members.
Welcoming new members remains one of our most joyful traditions. This year’s New Member Reception, chaired by Donna Queen with generous assistance from Libby Levine and Melody Petersen, was a delightful tea held at Ann Craig’s lovely home. Thanks to Margaret Dudas for chairing another beautiful Holiday Luncheon, featuring the stunning cakes decorated by Marilyn and Maureen and a fun program by Rene van Rems.
Behind the scenes much important work happens quietly but diligently. The tech-savvy among us have capably managed our membership records and registration and online communications through our periodic e-blast messages, our website, and Facebook page. Many thanks go to the yearbook team (Becky Dembitsky, Devonna Hall, Donna Koziol, Katie Pelisek and Susan Harris); and to the Spindrifter staff, edited by Donna Queen and Mary Lippman and their team.
Philanthropy remains a cornerstone of the Village Garden Club. We are deeply grateful to those who lead and support our outreach efforts--Bouquet of Thanks (Shelby Strong and Deborah Greenspan); Commemorative Tree Planting (Susan Alleshouse and Ana Canto); Penny Pines (Linette DaRosa and Linda Karpowich); Schoolyard Gardening (Leigh Hartman, Cindy Lautanen, Mary Lippman, and Susan Vandendriesse); and Wreaths Across America (Kate Engler). Your dedication makes a meaningful difference not only to our Club but to our community.
We also wish to thank those whose contributions may be less visible but are essential; Amy Hobert and Dana Reese at member check-In; Lucy Borsenberger and Libby Levine for refreshments; Judy Oliphant for orchestrating all of the beautiful floral arrangements made by our members; Jim Stelluti, Gary McCook and David Weis for meeting setup; and Mary Pringle and her dedicated crew for meeting take down. Thank you all. Our meetings wouldn’t be possible without you.
Our thanks also to the 2025 Nominating Committee, chaired by Vicki Lugo and Libby Levine, who worked diligently to recruit the next generation of Club leaders.
Looking ahead, Meet the Masters will be held on March 12, chaired by Maureen McMahon, Susan Geier and Katie Pelisek. We hope you’ll join us. In April, we’ll enjoy a field trip to the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park led by Shannon Cummins.
As this new year begins, may we remain grateful for the past, find joy in the present and look forward to the future.
Christy and Janet