RLACEI by Beverly J. Clark, Publicity Director
Boots, cowboy hats and big smiles were everywhere at RLACEI’s Western Roundup.
It was a day of cowboy hats and line dancing as RLACEI members gathered for the much-anticipated Western Roundup on May 15. The event turned out to be one of the year’s most memorable get-togethers for Retirees.
Attendees were greeted with a warm welcome and cheerful western décor, while Retirees posed for pictures in their cowboy gear.
President Ann Seales welcomed the attendees and introduced the RLACEI Board of Directors.
Retirees enjoyed a menu of hot links, potato salad, baked beans and peach cobbler provided by Mr. Ardi’s Catering. Following lunch, adding to the festive flair of the day, lucky winners took home a variety of prizes provided by RLACEI, the Employees Club of California and LAFCU.
One of the highlights of the day was the high-energy line dancing session, led by the talented instructors Penny Pearl (L2theD Let’s Line Dance) and her assistant Doni Gunnells-Hall (Cardio Sole). Participants were trying to get those “Boots on the Ground” steps in! There was lots of laughter, and some fancy footwork attempts as Retirees filled the dance floor, proving that rhythm and joy had no age limit.
In addition to the fun, attendees received updates on their retirement and benefits status from LACERS Interim General Manager Todd Bouey and LACERS Commissioner Michael Wilkinson. Their presence and insights were much appreciated, offering valuable information for those in attendance. Also in attendance were Employees Club of California representatives Noelle Kaufman, Director of Sales; Guadalupe Lira, Director of Retail and Ecommerce; John Hawkins, former Employees Club CEO; and Alive! editor John Burnes. LACERS Well employees Kristal Baldwin, Benefits Analyst; Jonathan Jimenez, Administrative Intern; Betty Smith, Administrative Clerk; and Alejandro Zuniga, Benefits Analyst; provided materials for Retirees to learn more about participating in LACERS-sponsored programs to stay active, healthy and alert in retirement. Robert Aguirre, Social Media Coordinator for the Los Angeles Federal Credit Union (LAFCU), provided flyers and LAFCU update materials.
By the end of the roundup, spirits were high, smiles were wide, and many were already talking about “next time.” Whether it was for the dancing, the food or the camaraderie, one thing was clear—this Western Roundup was a rootin’-tootin’ success!
