A Successful "Friends of WTC" Dinner!

Work Training Center held its Friends of WTC dinner on Thursday, February 28, 2008, and it was a rousing success! Over 80 guests attended our event this year, and a good time was had by all.

Beautiful centerpieces, provided by our own Made in Paradise artist studio, provided these beautiful centerpieces for the event:



The evening began with a half hour of socializing and purchasing raffle prize tickets. Guests were invited to put their tickets in front of the prize(s) they wanted to win.





At 6:30, dinner was served. Guests lined up to get platefuls of delicious lasagna, garlic bread, and green salad, prepared and served by the Well Ministry of Rescue. They did a terrific job, and we would highly recommend using their services next time you need a catered meal!



Drinks (soda, coffee and water) were served by our excellent human resources staff.


The program began at 7:00, and included a variety of awards, speeches and presentations. Two board presidents were honored for their service: Former President Carol Linscheid and current President Bob Bracewell; retired board members Hugh Campbell and Kent Rasmussen were honored for their years of service; the Business Partnership Award went to Lou & Lola Lodigiani with Tri-L Mandarins; Employer of the Year was awarded to Surplus City in Oroville; Care Provider of the Year award was presented to Marna Carli of the Alpine Homes; Service Recipient of the Year was presented to Dean Hornbeck; andf Friend of the Year was presented to our own Abe Baily.

WTC was pleased to welcome Alys Walters, one of the founding parents from the early days of WTC. Chico Mayor Andy Holcomb was also in attendance, and said a few words of welcome.


Alys Walters (right), founding parent of WTC


(L to R): Chico Mayor Andy Holcomb; WTC Executive Director Carl Ochsner, and WTC Board President Bob Bracewell.

An excellent speech on "Finding New Friends for WTC" was given by keynote speaker Abe Baily, retired professor from CSU, Chico and WTC's board vice president.


WTC Vice President Abe Baily and his wife

The evening was rounded off with the giving away of the raffle prizes. Much laughter (and groans) were heard, as those who won came up to claim their prizes.

After all the prizes were given out and a few closing remarks from our Executive Director Carl Ochsner, the evening ended about 8pm on a high note. A good time was had by all, and many commented on how much they enjoyed themselves.

We look forward to seeing everyone next year, as we plan to celebrate our 60th Anniversary at our Friends of WTC Dinner 2009!