There was much merriment at the Hats for Hope’s Christmas for Holly celebration held on the Sunday afternoon of Dec. 10 at the oh-so-nicely decorated Santa Maria Country Club.
“Those who are here are real troupers,” said cheerful board President Diane Martino, “the smoky ash air may have kept a lot of people away.”
Despite the iffy air quality that day, more than 80 stalwarts showed up, including John and Karen Will, Jim and Eldora Enos, Phil and Cristine Martins Sinco, Bo and Dennis Prescott, and Patrick and Jerri Ferrini.
Hats for Hope is a wonderful organization that provides cancer patients with certificates for wigs—a real boost to the spirit. This event was a favorite of Holly Williams, who sang with the Riptide Big Band (which traditionally plays for this party). A longtime cancer patient, she passed away this past year, so the name of the event went from Christmas with Holly to Christmas for Holly, in honor of a valiant lady.
Among the guests were the Bowkers: Keith and Margie and their daughter, Darien, with husband, Graham Wright, and his mom, Joan Wright.
The second the band played its first note, couples slinked toward the dance floor to strut their stuff. This band has a very loyal following.
The event’s flyer promised “heavy hors d’oeuvres,” which were chicken satay, beef and veggies on skewers, meatballs, thin-crust pizza squares, cheese, crackers, and fruit. No need to cook dinner after this.
Tickets for the pleasant and enjoyable Christmas for Holly were $30, with a no-host bar.
Hats for Hope is administered by volunteers, which means that all money raised goes directly to the cause. Board members attending were Natalie Barragan, Janine Dunn, Julie Epps, Sara Epps, Phoebe Jaeckels, Katie McPike, Karen Will, and Holly’s son, Clayton Williams.
Jan’s open house
Santa Claus was so in demand at Jan Bartleson’s open house on Sunday, Dec. 17.
Many wanted to be photographed with the amiable gent, who dropped by to hobnob on the Bartleson patio and check out who’s been naughty or nice.
Several dozen of Jan’s friends, family, and neighbors gathered in the beautiful afternoon sun (not a wisp of smoke in sight) for margaritas and tri-tip sandwiches, and Chef Rick’s hors d’ oeuvres. Rick’s famous coconut shrimp went very fast, but taking up the slack were gourmet pizza, chicken nuggets, regular shrimp, turkey salad, and sweet potato bread. Christmas cookies were everywhere. Some were baked by Jan’s daughter, Sue Holder, who is on very good terms with her kitchen oven.
However, methinks I am all “cookied out” until next December!
Mayor Alice Patino, Santa Maria City Councilmember Dr. Michael Moats, his wife Susan Moats, and Councilmember Etta Waterfield were among the crowd as well. Sue Sword loves a party, and showed up in holiday garb. That lady doesn’t miss a beat. Erik Frost’s Christmas tie was similarly in the spirit of the moment. He was there with his wife, Judy. It was a treat to see Judge Royce Llewellen and Mrs. Llewellen (Ann Foxworthy). Judge Llewellen’s smile can light up a room.
It must be noted that John Ransome is very close friends with Santa. From time to time, the two lend each other something from their wardrobes. Are they two great guys, or what?
If you want to hobnob with Helen, you may contact her at [email protected].
