The League House, home to local residents of retirement age, was the scene of a complete makeover on July 23. The Rotary Club of La Jolla converted the patio into a regular, old-fashioned carnival, complete with a magical clown (Rotarian Bob Schroeder), fortune teller (Nancy Wozniak, former administrator of the House), magician (Dick Dale of El Cajon), all sorts of carnival games with prizes from fish to teddy bears (compliments of Laurnie Durisoe, chairman of the decorating committee), and finally vintage music throughout the event, which lasted from 4 to 7 p.m.
Costumes were worn by almost all participants. Adding to the old-fashioned Western atmosphere were red and white gingham tablecloths, a circus tent overhead (compliments of Ed Lewis), elaborate decorations and, of course, picnic food complete with fried chicken, potato salad, corn bread, fruit pies, ice cream and cotton candy.
This is the third annual picnic event held in July by the Rotarians, who also host other activities throughout the year for the residents, such as the October Game Night, a Holiday Sing-a-long and luncheons out with members.
Gifts from the Rotary Club have included umbrellas as well as the outdoor carpeting used in the patio over the past several years. Prizes and donations were all given by Rotarians, individually or company-related, which ranged from dentistry gratis work, oscillating fans (truly needed at this time), and restaurant dinners to a croquet set.
Games were a huge success, as people who played the most games, participating the most, won the major awards. No one left empty-handed, as they all won a stuffed party animal!
The party was enlivened by ophthalmologist and former president Lee Vida, bartending the Cokes; Jeanne Cherbeneau, in charge of games and donations, announcing the costume winners; as well as Ron Jones, local entertainer extraordinaire, furnishing the vintage music.
League residents pictured in their winner costumes include first-place female winner Charlotte Cooney in Western garb, with runner-up Irene Bassman, Midsummer Night’s Dream, one she wore 20 years ago! Bill Black, in an authentic wrangler outfit, was the male choice, followed by Milton Sens who was the Lone Ranger.
Next year’s committee will have a tough job topping this year’s interactive event, one of the most colorful parties of the summer.
For more information about League House, 7465 Olivetas St., call (858) 454-5266.