'The Wonder of Christmas'

Bonsall Woman's Club annual Christmas luncheon benefits charitable causes

Bonsall Woman's Club (BWC) presented it's festive Christmas Luncheon and fundraiser on Dec. 10 at The Golf Club of California in Fallbrook. This year's theme was "The Wonder of Christmas" and the hard-working members produced an exceptional event, filled with holiday merriment.

According to longtime member Gail Golden, approximately 180 people supported the 23rd annual event. Members, guests, friends, and local businesses patronized the event which raises funds for worthy local efforts.

As the attendees arrived, they passed through an entrance lined with 10 three- and four-foot designer-decorated Christmas trees and 10 themed baskets. The trees were fabulous in variety of color and theme – from the country quaint to the glamorous. Themed baskets included art, wine and chocolate, gardening, Disney, reading, and many more.

When guests entered the main banquet room, each round table was decorated by its hostess, a Bonsall Woman's Club member, who developed the table's theme and used her own china, crystal, cutlery, and decor. A beautiful centerpiece also adorned each table and were crafted by BWC members.

An exterior patio held a silent auction area, offering a bevy of delights for the purpose of bidding.

"Silent auction items included Callaway/Pala Mesa golf packages, Keurig Espresso and latte maker, framed lithograph, framed original painting, handmade quilt, and more," explained Golden. "Several other hand-made items, provided by the BWC crafter’s group, were also for sale on the patio."

The event began with a welcome by chairperson Marcia Sawyer and then mistress of ceremonies Carol Jungerheld narrated the remainder of the festivities.

Entertainment began in the form of violin music, provided by longtime BWC member Barbara Chahbazian. After a luncheon that provided three entree choices to guests, the award-winning Fallbrook High School Madrigals, directed by Heather Smith, entertained the group with a wide variety of holiday songs.

The event surpassed all expectations and guests appreciated the atmosphere of holiday spirit.

"Without the hard work of chairperson Marcia Sawyer, her committee, and the Bonsall and Fallbrook community, this event would not be possible," said Golden. "A special thanks to sponsors Robert and Susan Lucy, River Village Properties, Coldwell Banker Village Properties, Randy Carlson DMD/Charles Drury, DDS, Daniel's Market, and R. Bean Manufacturing."

Golden said another important element of the event are generous BWC members who contributed money to insure the event's success. These are known as "angel benefactors."

"The proceeds exceeded expectations this year and will be dispersed to our local schools, community organizations, and Camp Pendleton military charities in North County," she said.

To learn more about the BWC, visit www.bonsallwomansclub.org.