Annual Dinner & Awards

2007 PLA Dinner

On Board Hornblower Inspiration

A Night of Inspiration!

The Hornblower Inspiration was the scene of the 45th annual Point Loma Association Annual Dinner. Months of work went into the planning by Karen Wheeler and her many committee volunteers – and the results were just spectacular.

After a short walk from the parking lot (sponsored by Ray Simas, Branch Manager at San Diego National Bank in Point Loma), guests were serenaded by the Point Loma High School Symphony Winds directed by John Dally. MADCAPS and MADCHAPS greeted guests as they boarded the vessel, and helped as auction runners.
With champagne flutes in hand, guests entered the cocktail reception and silent auction on the lower deck. Debbie Hatz, auction chair, filled the beautiful hall with the displays of items from A (Admissions to activities, attractions and adventures) to Z (Zed Electric donated two hours of electrical work). There was spirited bidding for the antique brass ship’s porthole donated by Teed Story, from the collection of Hugh Story. Celebrity items such as CD’s and DVD’s of Frankie Laine, and autographed, first editions of Joseph Wambaughs latest book brought multiple bids. With over 150 items to choose from there was something for everybody. There was spirited bidding during the live auction as well - especially for Dee and Peter Van Horne’s fabulous day cruise on their yacht. Thanks to all the generous bidders and the businesses and people who donated their items to the auction, over $17,000 was raised for PLA activities!

It was a May gray day but spirits were buoyed by the sense of community between the over 430 attendees. as the boat left the dock guests in the upper dining room were treated to spectacular views from the picture windows. . Dwight Harrington’s crew had video cameras off the stern capturing views that they projected on the three huge screens.

Captain Mark D. Patton, CO of Naval Base Point Loma led the Pledge of Allegiance and followed by Randy Ataide, JD of Point Loma Nazarene University with the invocation. Kevin Faulconer did such an admirable job installing the new Board members they wondered if they were actually being inducted into the Supreme Court! Kevin also announced the proclamation by unanimous vote of the City Council that May 22, 2007 was Patti Adams Day in San Diego. The Resolution he presented was full of wherefores and whereas’ but basically recognized Patti for her efforts on behalf of the community as she retires as Chair for the PLA.

Dick Lareau has been documenting the improvements to the Point Loma community in his annual slide show for over 35 years and has now become the star in Dwight Harrington’s video version of the slide show. The fabulous show was the highlight of the night as it took us on a kayak journey with Dick as he met the winners of this years Architectural, Landscape, Signage and Garden awards. Dwight created a video montage of highlights of the year, the loss of some of our community leaders, and the accomplishments of the PLA.

Kerri DeRosier awardedcertificates of appreciation to the artists who did such an outstanding job creating beauty from humble utility boxes. The GrAward was given to Drew Potocki, Urban Forester for the City of San Diego received the well deserved Grand Beautification Award for his immense contributions to our urban landscape.

The Grand Finale was the Lighthouse Award given annually to someone who significantly improves the quality of life in Point Loma. This years Lighthouse Award was given jointly to Pat Baker and Lee Lipsey. They have chaired the Point Loma Community Concert Series for over five years. They have put in hours of effort, dedication, and creative thought. There results are a program that not only brings the community together for the concerts, but creates a collaborative sense of community for everyone involved. The Lighthouse Award is a physical symbol of thanks from all of Point Loma.

While there are many people to thank, special thanks go to Bill and Dee Kettenburg for the table decorations which included model boats that Bill rigged himself. The boats alone raised $485.00! Thanks also to Klonie Kunzel and Pam Kelly for making reservations and seating smooth sailing.

As the Inspiration docked and guests departed it appeared by the animated conversations and wide smiles that a great time was had by all!