Last Saturday on March 2, 2024 the Boys & Girls Club of Vista held their 14th Annual Diamond Ball. This years theme was ‘Sailing the Seas to Great Futures”. The event was held at the Westin Resort and Spa in Carlsbad. Before the dining room opened, the hallways and rooms were filled with Silent Auction items, a Photo Booth, and an open bar with appetizers were served to guests and conversation was abundant. When the dining room opened, entertainment was provided by the Youth Rock Band, a group of kids that attends the Boys & Girls Club, watch the video for their performance.
The Yacht Rock Master of Ceremony Emcee was Marcella Lee, broadcast journalist at CBS News 8. She started the evening by introducing Raul Castillo, this years Dan Villaseńor Champion for Youth Award. After a video about his accomplishments they were joined on the stage by Dan Villaseńor who presented the award. This award is the highest honor the Boys & Girls Club of Vista can bestow upon an individual. Dan Villaseńor was one of the the first Boys & Girls Club of Vista’s Club Kids. He has been an advocate by volunteering his time, talent and skills. This award honors “Those who have dedicated themselves to the Boys & Girls Club and through their inspiring example and superb leadership have ensured that the youth of this community will always have a club to call their own.” Like the man that this award is named after, it truly exemplifies excellence and leadership.
Next, Marcella Lee introduced the CEO Matt Koumaras and Past Board Chairman John Meyer. At that time, they recognized EDCO Waste & Recycling Services with the ‘Great Futures Corporate Philanthropy Award’. Margo Cobian accepted the award for EDCO.
They used their time to thank the attendees for their generous contributions to the Club, and to share the vision of where the Boys & Girls Club Vista will be in the future. They also thanked the Staff of the Club and countless volunteers to make it successful. After a delicious dinner, Auctioneer Pierre Charmasson started the LIVE Auction. Thousands of dollars were donated.
The evening was then turned over to the band Overboard, and the Rock the Boat Dance Party began. Everyone had their dancing shoes on and they filled the dance floor.
Another successful Diamond Ball completed and left everyone anticipating next years event. Thanks to the many sponsors for the contributions. Without them there would not be a Boys & Girls Club Vista.
