Members of the 2022 Colorado State Party wore their team shirts at the March 4 event. Team members are standing next to a mountain scene backdrop where attendees took selfies. The 2022 party team included (left to right): Carl Halladay, Marilu Trainor, Suki Fitzgerald, Wendy Bachmann, Cheryl Murphy, Michele Conroy, Thelma Lindhorn, Beth Kelly, Cris Silkman, and Stanleigh Chism as “Miles.” Not pictured: Kathee and Mike Mealer.
Colorado Party Was One to Remember
Marilu Trainor
A highly successful Colorado party was held March 4 when a sold-out group of 200 registrants attended one of the most popular events in PebbleCreek this season. This year’s theme was “The Rocky Mountains are calling, and I must go” and the Tuscany Ballroom was the site of the nonstop fun evening.
Guests were treated to appetizers and then enjoyed a plentiful Italian buffet dinner and dessert. Dancing to the lively tunes of Rhythm Edition meant the dance floor was always packed.
Attendees were able to participate in the always popular “Rocky Mountain Square” raffle when a dozen prizes (valued at least $100 per prize) were awarded. The winners received Arizona Lottery tickets, gift certificates, wine, champagne, framed artwork, and cash.
The 2022 committee was co-chaired by Michele Conroy and Beth Kelly. Mark your calendar for March 3, 2023, for the next Colorado party—“Colorado Roundup” is the theme. Details for the party will be announced in December and registration will begin in January 2023.
2022 Oregon Party a Success
After two years of no spring gathering due to the pandemic, this year finally provided the opportunity for the annual picnic. Sixty Oregonians got together on Sunday, March 6, at Sunrise Park for the event, and the occasional stiff breeze deterred no one.
In addition to the food, the highlight of the afternoon was the yearly Oregon Trivia Quiz created by John Flynn. This was the first year a new mixer was introduced, Name That Oregonian. Now is the time to bone up on your facts for 2023’s “Oregon Challenge” that will certainly cause even the most astute Northwest history buffs to scratch their heads.
It is always interesting to hear of friendships that have been rekindled at these events. College acquaintances have reconnected, former neighbors have found each other, and neighbors have discovered that their kids played sports together in middle school! Informal gatherings like this are often all that is needed for old friends to find each other and to rediscover connections.
This gathering was started by Neil and Lucy Saling in the mid-90s when PebbleCreek’s population was slim and there were few opportunities to meet other Oregonians. Community clubs and organizations now are abundant, but state parties still provide that chance to meet others who may have similar roots.
Barring circumstances out of our control, 2023’s Oregon picnic will be here this time next year. Watch for dates, time, and location on your neighborhood bulletin board and in the Post in February 2023.
Winners of the card game wish to remain anonymous so they don’t have people wanting to borrow from them!
Wisconsin Party
Pat Jensen
The 2022 party was a huge success, with 200 people enjoying the company of fellow Wisconsinites. Games were played and money was won along with beautiful raffle baskets. We donated $2,100 to the Homeless Youth Connection.
Pictures were taken with a likeness of Aaron Rodgers, who has decided to stay with the Packers. A delicious sit-down dinner was provided by the catering department. Culver’s donated their cheese curds and custard as well as a year’s supply of custard to some lucky winner. Emcee Kevin Hillstrom had everyone laughing. The band Summer Solstice provided dinner music and then dancing music.
We are still looking for someone to chair the planning committee for next year’s party if we want this tradition to continue. Next year’s party is scheduled for Feb. 26, 2023.
Thanks to everyone for attending this year.