The La Cañada Flintridge Orthopaedic Guild (LCFOG) had much to celebrate recently and they did so at the La Cañada Flintridge Country Club where members gathered for their December meeting. Many were carrying large bags full of toys to be donated to the children at the clinic in Calexico. Mary Beth Perrine, vice president, Development and Outreach, Martha Ramirez, International Children’s Program coordinator, and Lina Velvarde, Luskin OIC director of Operations and Stewardship, were delighted that so many gifts were available to give to the children in Calexico.

DeeDee Nuanes, newly elected LCFOG president, thanked everyone for their tenacity during the past year and reminded everyone that they are now “on board” for another book and author event. Details to be decided upon in the new year.

There are still toys to be distributed and that means more volunteers are needed. The CHP were on hand on Dec. 14 to meet and greet and distribute toys. Possibly Santa will also be on hand but he may need some helpers. Thankfully, Caryl Pettit, Ginney Pruitt, Arlene Massimino and Jeanne Long will fill in and give away more toys.

After their luncheon, Mary Beth Perrine, with her usual sense of humor, conducted the installation of officers for 2024, incorporating a tea party theme. Her parting words to the group were, “You never know how strong a woman is until you put her in hot water.” Sage advice for all.  

Newly installed were DeeDee Nuanes as president; Caryl Pettit, vice president and Luskin OIC liaison; Joanne Ploszaj, treasurer; Chris Wright Roper, recording secretary and Handbook chair; Wendy Nicoll, corresponding secretary; and Joan Cleven, Ways and Means. Appointed positions went to Jeanne Long, Membership; Arlene Massimino, Publicity; Marie Baker, Patrons; and Marianne Jennings, Sustainer Correspondence.

LCFOG is always ready to welcome new members. Come and be a guest at our next meeting and leave as a member. It’s that easy! LCFOG welcomes Johnnette Martindale as the newest member. Anyone interested in making a difference in a child’s life should contact Jeanne Long at (818) 640-9106.

Written and submitted by Arlene MASSIMINO