Phoenix Christmas Party 2012

Once again our Phoenix Christmas Party was a fun and relaxing event. It was good to see old friends like Jim and Rita Mosley, and Elke Bauer with her partner Michael.

Cathy and Dave Reis were wonderful hosts once again, making us all comfortable in their beautifully-decorated home. A big thank-you to Cathy and to Kathryn O'Grady for organizing and preparing the delicious Greek food! Most of us had a good look at the Reis's spiffy new gym above their garage, but for some reason no one wanted to do a workout.

We all got a bit emotional listening to Jim Thomson give his "farewell" speech. Thank you, Jim, for your many years of work for the club. It's a huge job to be the chief, especially to shoulder all those race responsibilities.

We are fortunate to be able to welcome Larry Lorette as our new club president. We will need another committee member to take Jim's place. Please consider joining the committee, and helping to direct Phoenix activities next year. I encourage everyone to attend the AGM on Saturday, January 12.

Congratulations to Joey Gargaro, who was awarded the trophy as the top Phoenix Athlete of the Year! Joey competed in many races throughout the year, completing both the Lower Mainland Road Race Series and the Lower Mainland Cross Country Series. He achieved some PBs and actively encouraged others by posting stories on our website and on Facebook.

I apologize for the limited quality and number of photos: I was having so much fun talking to everyone at the party that I forgot to concentrate on taking decent photos.

Nancy Tinari

Many thanks to Hans Fenz for these photos! Due to a communication glitch, I just received them today (December 21).

Joey Gargaro wins the Phoenix Athlete of the year.	Our party hostess Cathy Reis receives a thank-you bouquet.
Jim gives his Phoenix Christmas and "retirement" speech.	Joey and Karen. Where is the Christmas background?
It was good to see Phoenix members both old and new at the party.