After a summer hiatus, members of the Glendale-based non-profit organization Las Candelas gathered on the Terrace Patio at Oakmont Country Club on Sept. 20 to honor the outgoing president and welcome the incoming president. Outgoing president Jeannie Flint was thanked for her expert leadership of the group for the past two years. Incoming president Ellyn Semler is looking forward to her term in 2015-16 and to working with the group to provide volunteer service and programs for emotionally challenged children. Social Chair Diane Russell organized the event that was appropriately titled, “A Noche Debajo de las Estrellas” (Night Under the Stars). After a one-hour reception of cocktails and Mexican-themed appetizers, a buffet of enchiladas, roasted sirloin and sea bass was served.

Others attending the celebration were members Sally Perkins, Marilyn Butler, Ann Ways, Patricia Aleman, Diane Johnson, Fran Buchanan, Anna Brewer, Monica Sierra, Cathy Keen, Patti Baker, Nancy Stone, Carole DePaul, Harriett Rector, JC Byer, Pattie McCormick, Marcia Lytle, Glady Kabateck, Joan Campbell, Margaret Cline, Bobbi Gangi, Marion Greene, Carolyn Beaton and Associate members Valery Moorhead and Mary Barber. Also attending were members’ husbands and guests. A highlight of the evening was introducing 2015-16 provisional member Rosina Maize and her husband Earl.
Founded in 1953, the mission of Las Candelas is to provide volunteer service and programs to emotionally challenged children. Las Candelas brings monthly programs and services to the children at Hathaway-Sycamores in Altadena and Hillsides in Pasadena. The organization also provides financial support to the YWCA Domestic Violence Program, Glendale Healthy Kids, Didi Hirsch and Ascencia. Funds to support these services are raised through the organization’s biennial fashion show luncheon. Chair of the next fundraiser, which will take place in 2017, is member and Glendale resident JC Byer.