MISSION BEACH — The Santa Clara Recreation Center, 1008 Santa Clara Place, will host its annual senior holiday luncheon once again on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. “The seniors get all dressed up and they look forward to it so much,” said Emily Rochfort, director of the Santa Clara Recreation Center. “It is sponsored by the Santa Clara /Pacific Beach Park and Recreation Council and also the City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department,” Rochfort said. The event takes two months to plan and the staff works diligently to ensure that all of the planning and coordination are done ahead of time. “We are bringing in a magician from the Magical Misfits,” Rochfort said. Entertainment will also include a three-man band, that some may remember from the Spring Luncheon at the recreation center. The lunch is free for the seniors and includes a meal, desert, a “goodie bag,” entertainment and plenty of holiday cheer. “This event has been going on for a very long time and is one of the things they [senior citizens] look forward to the most,” Rochfort said. Games are also part of the annual festivities. In prior years, the staff has organized games based around questions such as who is the youngest person at the table, who and who is the oldest. Prizes are always awarded and the staff has not yet revealed what this year’s game will be, Rochfort said. The menu this year will include lasagna, salad and bread rolls. Olive Café will provide the food. The center sends out approximately 300 invitations and typically 130 attend, but all senior citizens are welcome even if they did not receive an invitation. RSVPs are required. Transportation is provided by the recreation for those that need it and can be arranged by calling the center. For more information or to RSVP call (858) 581-9928.








