###A Chinese dragon balloon from Lease Wong of Komodo Toys waved in front of the entrance of the Fruitvale Presbyterian Church Hall, beckoning celebrants to the Metro's 20th anniversary. MJ Barnes, owner of the catering business, HospitalitybyMJ (www.hospitalitybyMJ.com) had set the table with a bounty of delicious appetizers from local restaurants. MJ and Marcella Woods had spent much of the earlier part of the day cutting melons and prepping the food. Gloria Wilmer, who also sent the invitations, helped MJ with the food service. Their work showed in the beautiful spread that was also graced by flowers from David Macon of Sudears Flowers. |
The presence of such a hearty table owed much to Dal Sellman, who had talked with the restaurateurs and other merchants and asked for what became absolutely outstanding donations. As MJ, remarked, "Who could refuse Dal?"
### It was great seeing neighbors and Metro volunteers from neighbor Laurie Umeh to distributors such as Gus and Helen Argyropoulus and the Grisets to former staff writers such as Ellen Griffin to long-time Health columnist Paulette Avery to current Word processor Baby Djojonegoro to long-time graphic and layout editor Andreas Jones.'
### The design committee unveiled the Metro's 20th anniversary t-shirt and tote bag. Ron Rifkin, who also created the Dimond's Oktoberfest t-shirt last October, chose his design to play on the word "metro". The shirts are perfect for summer events, the totes are roomy and sturdy, perfect for carrying a stack of books from the Laurel Book Store, desserts, or bread from La Farine or Lucky Donuts, or strawberries, canteloupes, and veggies from Farmer Joe's or House of Produce, or .... Totes and t-shirts are still available. Both items are perfect if you are looking for gifts with a local flair to send to out-of-towners, something they can't get in Anywhere, U.S.A.'
Diane Pfile of Paws and Claws won a 20th-anniversary t-shirt playing Metro Bingo, and Sue Yascolt won the drawing for a tote bag.
### After Richard Cowan presented Councilmember Quan's Proclamation acknowledging the Metro's 20 years, Sarah Hipolito was emcee for a short program. Toni Locke talked about some of the origins of the Metro and the folks who started it. Reuben Goldberg stressed the need for funds for this nonprofit organization, thanked current and past donors and advertisers, and asked for help in raising more funds. Sheila D'Amico said the Metro would be turning to the community to participate in looking to the future of the paper.
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