During this month in which so many traditions are honored, celebrated and continued, current and former elected officials, city staffers and representatives of the local clergy, media, business and nonprofit community gathered this past Saturday evening for a tradition that for the past two decades has blended holiday cheer with the spirit of giving.
Councilman Dave Golonski and his wife Barbara Sykes once again opened their festively decorated Magnolia Park home for their annual holiday party that collects funds and toys for the children of the Kids International Foundation, the El Faro and Hacienda Orphanages of Tijuana, Mexico, the Five Acres Child and Family Services Agency, and the Burbank Coordinating Council’s Holiday Basket Program.
Assisted in their hosting duties by the couples’ daughter and son-in law, Nathan and Randi Lowery, sons Russell Tamillo and John Golonski, grandchildren Grant and JoAnn Lowery, and brother-in-law Chris Rushing, they welcomed guests bearing gifts for those in need that included U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, Mayor Jess Talamantes and his wife Sandy, Councilmember Emily Gabel-Luddy, School Board member Dave Kemp, former Mayor Mary Lou Howard, former Councilman Tim Murphy, Police Chief Scott LaChasse, Community Development Director Greg Herman and Senior Assistant City Attorney Mary Riley.