On Saturday, November 10th at the Inner Light Center in Soquel, members of the 60Plus Senior Program gathered to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. This annual event welcomed 116 of our community’s LGBTQ+ seniors, where they enjoyed a delicious buffet of holiday favorites, created by local chef Mickey Phelps of of Mickey’s Cafe and Catering. The room was quickly buzzing with high energy and engaging conversations as they arrived to be in community. Guests enjoyed this opportunity to connect with their long time friends and to meet new ones. We were honored to have special guests arrive as well, including Santa Cruz County Supervisors John Leopold and Zach Friend. After lunch, entertainment was provided by the magnificent local musical talents of Patti Maxine, Rhan Wilson, and Rick Zeek of Jazz the Dog! The 60Plus Senior Program offers tremendous appreciation for the support of luncheon sponsors, Kaiser Permanente, Lifespan, and Sunshine Villa and our amazing group of volunteers. Thank you!!

Not only was this a day to celebrate our thankfulness but also the 60Plus Senior Program’s 15th anniversary! On January 22, 2003 founding members Denny Carroll, Bob Correa, Doug Urbanus, Mardi Brown, Roderick Olson, Mike Johnson, Dan Buckler, Stuart Rosenstein, and Stacy Saetta created the first committee and on April 13, 2003 the first luncheon was held at the Capitola Community Center. 15 years later, the program has grown to reach over 400 of our community’s LGBTQ+ seniors. It is with great pride and gratitude that the 60Plus Senior Program was acknowledged with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for outstanding and invaluable service to the community from Congressman Jimmy Panetta! Congratulations 60Plus Senior Program! Here’s to another 15 years in the making!!

Contact Information: Steven Matzie

Phone: (831) 425-5422x108