Blog

Submitted by Suzi Riley, Past Grand President and California Admission Day, State Chair

Thank you again for your AMAZING support and to everyone who attended our incredible 175th Grand California Admission Day Luncheon held at the Basque Cultural Center in South San Francisco. It was a wonderful and historic success for both Orders and for the MANY proud Native Sons and Native Daughters in attendance. We were grateful to welcome the Grand Presidents of both Orders as our Honorary Chairmen of the afternoon as well as many Grand Officers, Past Grand Presidents, Members and guests.

A HUGE thank you to everyone for being a part of such an exciting day. I am truly grateful to my wonderful  California Admission Day Committee (especially my Co-Chairs Donna and Bob Fletcher and Bob Teal!!) for everything and of course to all of our guests who attended and supported this wonderful opportunity to be a part of such a remarkable and important occasion in our glorious golden state’s illustrious 175 year history!

The entire event was a wonderful success! We were so glad to present proceeds of over $3,000 to charitable endeavors of the Native Sons and Native Daughters! Congratulations to all!

NDGW PGP Dawn Dunlap’s keynote address on the impact of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge was informative and insightful and added to the day’s learning. NSGW Grand Secretary Tom Perazzo’s footnote contributed a personal touch to the talk and Member Dave McCann’s reminder that his father was one of the very first toll collectors on the GGB reminded us all of the collective part we all play in our 31st state’s history. Our Committee also gratefully acknowledges and appreciates NDGW Home Museum and Archives Program Manager Kathy Kelly-Breitler and assistant Vicki Allen and their support staff for their display and information shared on the many past years of joint Native Sons and Native Daughters Admission Day celebrations. The event began with NDGW Member Roberta Paul’s moving Invocation and concluded with NSGW Grand Treasurer Tim Tullius, PGP’s heartfelt benediction. The rousing singing of our state song “I Love You, California” led by GT Dennis and Kathleen Valerio was a perfect finish to a glorious day!

Thank you again for truly being proud Californians and thanks also to our dedicated VIP and exemplary Members of BOTH our of Orders as well. This annual event showcases that we truly benefit from our partnership starting many years ago and continuing for years to come! What an AMAZING crowd!! Thank you ALL!!