December 15, 2006

Republican Club celebrates the holidays with annual Christmas party on Dec. 6

Special to the Times

The Republican Club held its annual installation/ luncheon meeting and Christmas party in the Fairway Room on Dec. 6.  

The tables' red and green motif, poinsettia plants, and the many wonderful toys contributed by Club members for the Toys for Tots collection next to the beautifully decorated Christmas trees set the stage. Gary Hill and Donna Roberson read inspirational stories of our troops. Roberson read a "thank you" from our 'Support The Troops' Chair, Caroline Clarke-Ritchey's grandson, Michael, currently stationed in Iraq. He stressed how much it means to him and the 25 troops in his platoon to receive packages from home. Thank you to all who helped in this effort. There will be more boxes sent in January.

The club’s guest speakers were Victor Ajlouny, campaign manager and now transition team member for San Jose Mayor-Elect Chuck Reed, and Hon Lien, one of the candidates running for Chuck Reed's seat on the San Jose City Council.

Ajlouny described the transition team as composed of 68 people with expertise in many areas. Sub-committees have been formed to address many issues of which the following are key: Jobs and Economy, Safety, Education, and Reform.

In spite of the current deficit, there are still great needs, Ajlouny said, such as increasing the numbers of our police force. Ajlouny stressed that Reed strongly believes San Jose can become an even greater city. Reed is very interested in listening to the ideas and the questions of the citizens. Messages can be sent to Reed through Ajlouny using this email address: eaglecomm1@aol.com.  Ajlouny finished his talk with a most informative question and answer session.  

Lein, meanwhile, arrived in the United States in 1979 after the Vietnam government took over the family home - Eminent Domain with no reimbursement. Lein's father then decided to take his family of 11 and leave his homeland. After a very difficult time as refugees, they arrived in the United States. The day after they arrived, Lein's father suffered a stroke and died. Nonetheless, Lein has worked hard and is so grateful for the advantages she has had that she now wants to give back to her community by serving as a council member.

President Shirley Ritzheimer gave a big thank you to all who served as officers and chairs and committees in 2006. The 2007 officers were installed by Club Member Roger Lasson. They are: Shirley Ritzheimer - President, Gary Hill -  First Vice President, Marjorie Bunn - Second Vice President,  Joan Moyle - Secretary, and Pat O'Brien -  Treasurer. Roberson presented Ritzheimer with a thank you gift for serving as 2006 President. Lu Ryden, retiring after serving as Second Vice President and Program Chair for many years, was honored by the Club and also was presented with a thank you gift by Roberson.