Star Report
The Women’s Guild of St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church invites women (ages 12 years and older) to attend the annual Christmas luncheon at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 10, in the church’s beautifully decorated Stacy Hall. This event, a Santa Ynez Valley favorite for more than 40 years, opens with a reception featuring local wines and beverages; and an opportunity to shop in the “boutique” featuring themed gift baskets plus other items including baked goods, jams and crafts. At 12:30 p.m., a sit-down luncheon created by New West Catering will be served by men of the parish.
Throughout the event, live entertainment will be provided by St. Mark’s choir; music students from the Solvang Conservatory under the direction of Diane Byington along with performances by Beverly Staples, Nichole Dechaine and Bill Hurbaugh. There will also be a Christmas Carol sing along for all in attendance.
“We welcome all women, young and young-at-heart, throughout the area to join us in celebration of the Christmas season at our festive luncheon. In addition to the reception, boutique, meal and singing; we will also have a raffle featuring items donated by local merchants,” said Mary Beth Johnson, 2016 Women’s Guild Chair.
The price of the event is $40 per person with all proceeds raised at the event staying in the community to support the Church’s preschool and programs for local families. The luncheon traditionally sells out, so reserving early is highly recommended. Reservations are required; visit www.smitv.org/womens-guild-reservation-form.html to book online. St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church is located at 2901 Nojoqui Avenue at the corner of Alamo Pintado Avenue in downtown Los Olivos. For more information, call 805-688-4454 or visit www.SMITV.org
Formed in 1926 and serving the Santa Ynez Valley at its present location in downtown Los Olivos since 1979, St. Mark’s practices a spacious Christianity and welcomes people of all faiths or none. St. Mark’s is a no-fee community center for non-profit groups and community meetings, an arts venue for musical and cultural events, a welcome center for residents and area visitors, and a home to an Episcopal parish. St. Mark’s is also grateful to be home to the area’s Jewish community. St. Mark’s top-flight, non-sectarian professional preschool serves Santa Ynez Valley families with quality early-childhood education. Open doors, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, a shady courtyard, gardens, a labyrinth and water for dogs are available for visitors and area residents all day, every day. For more information, visit www.SMITV.org
