Last week, friends and family gathered to kick-off the upcoming holidays with a good old-fashioned costumed pizza party. The G-Team, led by Dr.G, a local community advocate and City Council member, had a gathering of volunteers and friends to celebrate the holidays, community and the gift of freedom. The 40 members who attended the festivities are part of Dr.G’s CITYTALK organization, who enjoy gathering for fellowship, delicious pizza, prayer blessing, and the sharing of a few old-time G-Stories. Of course, the “icing on the cake” were the fun costumes and literally, the tasty “Halloween” cake that was specially decorated for the occasion.
“This was a very nice event,” said Sandra Martinez, who with her husband Michael, came in their western gear to join in the fun. Others had more to say as well. Delma Ledesma, Terrie Caldera, June Hughes and Rachel Ngo each offered enjoyable G-stories (stories about DrG) that made everybody laugh and even encourage positive cheers. “The whole evening was fun,” commented Carrie Jordan, who added, “We really had a great time and look forward to future gatherings.”
The event was held at Pizzadilly Restaurant @ 194 East Valley Blvd. The owners Shirwan and Denise Mariano, who earlier this year purchased the business, were gracious hosts, and offered a comfortable space for the celebration. As usual, the pizza was on-time and delicious, and his staff included previous owner Raymond Dorado, who came in to help with the preparations. “Basically, we were in good hands,” says Dr.G and went on to say, “They are to be congratulated for their excellent customer service and friendly atmosphere.
Everyone came in costume. Even Dr.G, who is well-known in the community for donning a costume for the holidays, came in a catchy “Zebra” costume to host the event. Among the attendees were hippies, cartoon characters, animals and a couple of “ghostly” people. “This was fun,” said Christine Irish-Re, long-time supporter who came dressed as a hippy-girl.
During the year, the G-Team participates in several productive activities that contribute to the positive atmosphere in our community. Such efforts have included talking with residents, assisting the homeless and veterans, supporting students, having trash clean-up projects, neighborhood meetings, planting flowers, painting park tables, visiting shut-ins, and much more.
This costume pizza party was a good, creative way to celebrate the upcoming holidays and to generate genuine community spirit. It’s a great outreach of family, friends and community. Nothing extraordinary about it… Just caring for people. Congratulations to the G-Team for their continued community outreach, their volunteer efforts, and their positive contribution to community “Spirit.”