– The Thalians hosted their annual Holiday Party Luncheon at the
newly built Bel-Air Country Club on Saturday, December 7, 2024 in Los Angeles. The
event was a resounding success, bringing together board members, Thalians President
Club Members, UCLA Operation Mend attendees, distinguished guests, and supporters
to celebrate the holiday season and contribute to a noble cause.
Front Row (L to R) Thalians Board: Dr. Irwin Lehrhoff, Kathy Garver, Tricia Lee Fisher, President Frank Sheftel, Joely Fisher, Stephanie Hibler, Patrika Darbo, Rico E. Anderson, and Jacqueline Lewis.
Back Row (L to R) UCLA Operation Mend & Thalians Board: Leah Brown, Steve Cohen, Dr. Eric Cheung, Dr. Tom Strouse, Laurie Gordon, Gary Ghazarian, Cece Feiler, Warrior Joey Paulk, Dr. Jo Sornborger, Warrior Buster Miscusi, and Monique Miscusi and Andrew McDonald (Thalians Treasurer).Photo Credit: Justin Foley
The Bel-Air Country Club, originally designed by George C. Thomas in 1925, has
recently been rebuilt by architect Tom Doak and his team. This project meticulously
restored the golf course and the clubhouse to their original splendor while incorporating
modern updates, enhancing its historic charm with contemporary amenities. The result
is a harmonious fusion of classic design and modern luxury.
On December 7th, The Thalians’ guests were treated to a stunningly sunny and clear
day with mild temperatures, complemented by low humidity and a gentle breeze. The picturesque views of the meticulously restored Bel-Air County Club golf course provided
an idyllic backdrop for the luncheon, making the occasion truly unforgettable.
The program commenced with a warm welcome from President Frank Sheftel and
Board Member Joely Fisher, who introduced the esteemed Thalians Board Members:
Dr. Irwin Lehrhoff (Chairman), Ruta Lee (Chairman Emeritus), Andrew McDonald,
(Treasurer), Stephanie Hibler, Patrika Darbo (Days of Our Lives), Brian Theobald,
Joely Fisher (Ellen), Tricia Leigh Fisher (Singer/Actress), Kathy Garver (Family
Affair), Jacqueline Lewis (Jackie Lewis Media & Events and Bionic Buzz Media), and
Rico E. Anderson (Star Trek). This talented and dedicated group brings a wealth of
experience and passion to The Thalians’ mission, making the organization a continued
force for good.
Frank Sheftel, Ann Jillian, Madeline Gussman Photo Credit: Justin Foley
Among the notable guests were Christopher Gialanella (Publisher of Los Angeles
Magazine) and his wife, Andrea, Susan Olsen (The Brady Bunch), Erin Murphy
(Bewitched), and Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless). Additionally, Ann Jillian
(It’s a Living) read a heartfelt note from Ruta Lee, Chairman Emeritus, who was unable
to attend and missed by all.
A special tribute was paid to former board members Larry Wolfe and Barbara Cohen
Wolfe, by Frank Sheftel honoring their lasting contributions to The Thalians. Their
family was present to receive a commemorative gift, underscoring the organization’s
appreciation for their dedication.
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of a $250,000 check to representatives
from UCLA Operation Mend, including Dr. Jo, Warrior and UCLA Operation Mend
client Buster Miscusi, and his spouse Monique. This contribution reflects The
Thalians’ ongoing commitment to supporting mental health initiatives for veterans. With
this donation, the Thalians have now given 3 Million dollars to UCLA’s Operation Mend
over the past decade. Entertainment was provided by DJ Louis from The Jacks of Groove
(IG:@thejacksofgroove), who created a festive atmosphere with a selection of holiday
and up-tempo music. Pianists Alan Ishii and Byron Thames also performed, adding a
touch of elegance to the champagne reception.
Ann Jilliian Photo Credit: Justin Foley
The event featured an impressive selection of raffle prizes and silent auction items.
Guests delighted in the lively music, breathtaking views, and warm camaraderie,
creating a truly memorable and joyful conclusion to the celebration.
Adding to the excitement, The Thalians announced their highly anticipated 70th
Anniversary Gala in 2025. This milestone event promises to be a grand celebration filled with entertainment, celebrity guests and an unforgettable evening dedicated to the
Thalians’ mission of supporting mental health awareness.
To join The Thalians or find out more about their work and upcoming 70th Anniversary
Gala, please visit www.thethalians.org
ABOUT THE THALIANS:
THE THALIANS: In 1955, a group of talented young stars, led by actresses Debbie
Reynolds and Jayne Mansfield, aimed to change Hollywood’s image. Together, they
founded The Thalians—named after Thalia, the Goddess of Comedy—to support
children with mental health issues. Today, The Thalians’ mission has expanded to raise
funds for mental health awareness and care for both children and service members
through UCLA’s Operation Mend, helping to eliminate the stigma attached to mental
illness.
For more information about The Thalians or to donate, please visit: www.thalians.org
(The Thalians is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible as permitted by law.
ABOUT OPERATION MEND:
Operation Mend is the only program in the nation dedicated to providing specialized
surgical and psychological care, at no cost, for post-9/11 veterans and service members
injured in the line of duty, as well as their caregivers.
For more information about Operation Mend, visit:
www.uclahealth.org/programs/operationmend
More about The Bel Air County Club (Membership Only) and its’ newly built
facility Complementing the course restoration, the clubhouse has been transformed into a
modern 62,000-square-foot facility. The redesign replaced the existing 20-plus interior
levels with three expansive, newly built floors, seamlessly blending the club’s rich
heritage with a fresh, vibrant atmosphere. The historic clock tower has been preserved,
standing as a testament to the club’s storied past, while the new construction offers
state-of-the-art facilities, including luxurious locker rooms, updated dining areas, and a
stunning banquet room. The result is a harmonious fusion of classic design and modernluxury, solidifying the Bel-Air Country Club as the premiere country club in Los
Angeles.
For more information to become a member: https://www.bel-aircc.golf/