LA VERNE HEIGHTS SHOWCASES ITS OWN AMERICAN IDOLS ON FOUNDER’S DAY

Some of the night's singing stars.

The La Verne Heights PTA rolled out the red carpet for its Founder’s Day Celebration, marking the 104th anniversary of the parent-teacher association that has meant so much to the development and success of the “California Distinguished” school.

The fun and fast-paced program inside the La Verne Heights auditorium on Thursday night featured several highlights:

Volunteers were honored. Kindergartners serenaded the audience with a medley of patriotic songs. Principal Gary Tempkin (the “Old Oak”) presented a slice-of-campus-life slide show, and a mountain of moist, creamy cupcakes topped off the classy affair.

The award-winners were a closely guarded secret until they were announced.

Sarina Bellomo and Lisa Tucker received PTA Honorary Service Awards.  Wendy Frankel was honored with the PTA Continuing Service Award. Principal Gary Temkin received the PTA Golden Oak Service Award. PTA Special Volunteer Awards also were presented to Karen Johnson, John Gallegos and Patty Fletcher.

“I was truly amazed when Mr. Temkin had tears in his eyes,” said PTA President Natalie Curley. “His wife came to surprise him and the beautiful slide show he put together was amazing.”

It was that kind of night at the old school house!

Mae Gill and Patty Fletcher

From left, John Gallegos, Mae Gill, Karen Johnson and Natalie Curley.

Lisa Tucker and Mae Gill

Wendy Frankel and Sarina Bellomo

Megan, a Reflections winner.

Spencer, a Reflections award winner.

Mae and Natalie with (wearing Lions T-shirts) with community sponsors from Puttin' on the Spritz and Frisella's.

The real stars of the night -- You're going to Hollywood!

Their singing brought out the smiles.

Everyone was making a fashion statement.

The singers closed with "God Bless America."

Another dynamic singing duo.