Club members enjoy a mix of fun and adventure
By Mary Rea
Publicity chair
March brought a lively mix of art, culture, history and adventure to the Women’s Club – and perhaps even a ghost or two. A highlight was our visit to the historic Whaley House in Old Town. The tour was especially engaging thanks to Women’s Club member Paula Marrone, who portrayed Mrs. Whaley and guided us through the home with lively stories that brought its colorful past to life.
Known as one of San Diego’s most intriguing historic landmarks, the Whaley House is famous not only for its architecture and rich history but also for its legendary ghost stories. As we moved through the rooms, a few unexplained creaks and sounds had us wondering if one of the Whaley House spirits might have quietly joined our tour.
Continuing our March explorations, members enjoyed a docent-led tour of the beautiful Marston House in the Bankers Hill neighborhood overlooking Balboa Park. This exquisitely preserved 1905 Craftsman home, designed by renowned architect Irving Gill, offers a glimpse into early 20th-century San Diego. Furnished with period pieces and surrounded by lovely gardens, the home reflects the legacy of George W. Marston whose leadership helped shape the city’s parks, culture and civic life.
The month’s adventures continued outdoors when the Adventure Walking Group set out for a lovely walk at Kit Carson Park in Escondido. Members explored Queen Calafia’s Magical Circle Sculpture Garden, where brilliant mosaics and imaginative sculptures created a magical and memorable setting for the day.
The Women’s Club is thriving as we welcome many new members who bring fresh energy and ideas to our activities. As our membership grows, the club is expanding opportunities for members to gather and share their interests. In addition to a variety of social and cultural outings each month, members participate in four Bunco groups, three Bridge groups and two Book Discussion groups. Weekly Mahjong and pickleball draw enthusiastic players, while other regular gatherings include Canasta, Scrabble, Fun and Games, and our Adventure Walking outings. With participation continuing to grow, the club is actively seeking to add new activities and gatherings to keep pace with demand and provide even more opportunities for connection and friendship.
April brings another delightful series of outings for members, beginning with Art Alive on April 25 at the San Diego Museum of Art, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Olympic Training Center, where some of the nation’s top athletes train and prepare for world competition. Theater lovers are also looking forward to the Scripps Ranch Theatre production of “Lend Me a Soprano,” complete with a pre-theatre party and
opening night reception.
In addition to its many social and cultural activities, the Women’s Club remains dedicated to supporting education and community initiatives through its Scholarship and Community Giving programs. The deadline for Scholarship applications and requests for community funding is April 11. Complete information about eligibility and application guidelines is available at srwomensclub.org.
For additional information about the Women’s Club and its many and varied activities, please contact Membership Chair Lynn Parke at lparke@san.rr.com.