The Thalians Shine at Bel-Air Country Club with $250,000 Gift to UCLA Operation Mend

The Thalians Shine at Bel-Air Country Club with $250,000 Gift to UCLA Operation Mend
Front Row (L to R) Thalians Board: Dr. Irwin Lehrhoff, Kathy Garver, Tricia Lee Fisher, President Frank Sheftel, Joely Fisher, Stephanie Hibler, Patrika Darbo, Rico E. Anderson, and Jacqueline Lewis. Back Row UCLA Operation Mend & Thalians Board: Leah Brown, Steve Cohen, Dr. Eric Cheung, Dr. Tom Strouse, Laurie Gordon, Gary Ghazarian, Johnese Spisso, Warrior Joey Paulk, Dr. Jo Sornborger, Warrior Buster Miscusi, and Monique Miscusi and Andrew McDonald. Photo Credit Justin Foley
The Thalians hosted their annual Holiday Party Luncheon at the newly built Bel-Air Country Club on Saturday, December 7, 2024 in Los Angeles. The event was a resounding success, bringing together board members, Thalians President Club Members, UCLA Operation Mend attendees, distinguished guests, and supporters to celebrate the holiday season and contribute to a noble cause.

The Bel-Air Country Club, originally designed by George C. Thomas in 1925, has recently been rebuilt by architect Tom Doak and his team. This project meticulously restored the golf course and the clubhouse to their original splendor while incorporating modern updates, enhancing its historic charm with contemporary amenities. The result is a harmonious fusion of classic design and modern luxury.

On December 7th, The Thalians’ guests were treated to a stunningly sunny and clearday with mild temperatures, complemented by low humidity and a gentle breeze. The picturesque views of the meticulously restored Bel-Air County Club golf course provides an idyllic backdrop for the luncheon, making the occasion truly unforgettable. The program commenced with a warm welcome from President Frank Sheftel and Board Member Joely Fisher, who introduced the esteemed Thalians Board Members: Dr. Irwin Lehrhoff (Chairman), Ruta Lee (Chairman Emeritus), Andrew McDonald, (Treasurer), Stephanie Hibler, Patrika Darbo (Days of Our Lives), Brian Theobald, Joely Fisher (Ellen), Tricia Leigh Fisher (Singer/Actress), Kathy Garver (Family Affair), Jacqueline Lewis (Jackie Lewis Media & Events and Bionic Buzz Media), andRico E. Anderson (Star Trek). This talented and dedicated group brings a wealth of experience and passion to The Thalians’ mission, making the organization a continued force for good.

Among the notable guests were Christopher Gialanella (Publisher of Los Angeles Magazine) and his wife, Andrea, Susan Olsen (The Brady Bunch), Erin Murphy (Bewitched), and Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless). Additionally, Ann Jillian (It’s a Living) read a heartfelt note from Ruta Lee, Chairman Emeritus, who was unable to attend and missed by all.

A special tribute was paid to former board members Larry Wolfe and Barbara CohenWolfe, by Frank Sheftel honoring their lasting contributions to The Thalians. Their Family was present to receive a commemorative gift, underscoring the organization’s appreciation for their dedication.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of a $250,000 check to representatives from UCLA Operation Mend, including Dr. Jo, Warrior and UCLA Operation Mend Client Buster Miscusi, and his spouse Monique. This contribution reflects The Thalians’ ongoing commitment to supporting mental health initiatives for veterans. With This donation, the Thalians have now given 3 Million dollars to UCLA’s Operation Mend Over the past decade. Entertainment was provided by DJ Louis from The Jacks of Groove (IG:@thejacksofgroove), who created a festive atmosphere with a selection of holiday and up-tempo music. Pianists Alan Ishii and Byron Thames also performed, adding a touch of elegance to the champagne reception.

The event featured an impressive selection of raffle prizes and silent auction items.Guests delighted in the lively music, breathtaking views, and warm camaraderie,creating a truly memorable and joyful conclusion to the celebration.Adding to the excitement, The Thalians announced their highly anticipated 70th Anniversary Gala in 2025. This milestone event promises to be a grand celebration filled with entertainment, celebrity guests and an unforgettable evening dedicated to the Thalians’ mission of supporting mental health awareness.

To join The Thalians or find out more about their work and upcoming 70th Anniversary Gala, please visit www.thethalians.org

ABOUT THE THALIANS:

THE THALIANS: In 1955, a group of talented young stars, led by actresses Debbie Reynolds and Jayne Mansfield, aimed to change Hollywood’s image. Together, they founded The Thalians—named after Thalia, the Goddess of Comedy—to support children with mental health issues. Today, The Thalians’ mission has expanded to raise funds for mental health awareness and care for both children and service members through UCLA’s Operation Mend, helping to eliminate the stigma attached to mental illness. For more information about The Thalians or to donate, please visit: www.thalians.org (The Thalians is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

ABOUT OPERATION MEND:

Operation Mend is the only program in the nation dedicated to providing specialized surgical and psychological care, at no cost, for post-9/11 veterans and service members injured in the line of duty, as well as their caregivers. For more information about Operation Mend, visit: www.ucla health.org/programs/operation mend

More about The Bel Air County Club (Membership Only) and its’ newly built facility Complementing the course restoration, the clubhouse has been transformed into a modern 62,000-square-foot facility. The redesign replaced the existing 20-plus interior levels with three expansive, newly built floors, seamlessly blending the club’s rich heritage with a fresh, vibrant atmosphere. The historic clock tower has been preserved,standing as a testament to the club’s storied past, while the new construction offers state-of-the-art facilities, including luxurious locker rooms, updated dining areas, and a stunning banquet room. The result is a harmonious fusion of classic design and modern luxury, solidifying the Bel-Air Country Club as the premiere country club in Los Angeles.

For more information to become a member: https://www.bel-aircc.golf/

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