GUSTINE — The Al Goman Community Center was transformed into a vibrant indoor garden on Saturday, Nov. 8, as the Newman–Gustine Garden Club hosted its seventh annual “A Garden of Tables” fundraiser. With 20 themed tables on display, each one a unique expression of its designer’s imagination, the event drew a bevy of guests and raised funds for the club’s ongoing community projects.
The concept is simple but striking: each hostess selects a theme and decorates her table accordingly, inviting guests to dine and admire the artistry. This year’s themes ranged from seasonal celebrations and cultural tributes to whimsical fantasies and vintage elegance.
Cynthia Martin, a past president of the club, returned for her seventh year of table design with “Under the Sea.” Her table shimmered with seashells, treasure chests spilling faux jewels, and a centerpiece featuring two live goldfish swimming in a bowl—later auctioned off in the silent auction.
“Sometimes you just think of something and it starts to come together,” Martin said.
Among the most elaborate displays was “Mediterranean Delights,” created by Annette Michaels and her sister Jeneen Vaughn. Inspired by a birthday celebration Michaels once hosted, the table resembled a lavish Bedouin tent, complete with a hookah, genie lamp, water fountain, and a spread of regional treats including baklava, dates, and pistachio cookies.
“It took five of us three hours to set this all up,” Michaels said.
Susie Ochoa found inspiration in her collection of milk glass, designing a table titled “Pretty Finds and Endless Class.” Soft palettes of pink and green framed an elegant floral arrangement, creating a serene and fragrant tablescape.
Club President Pat Rocha said she was proud of the creativity and dedication shown by members and guests alike.
“I’m so proud of these ladies and the creativity that they all show,” Rocha said.
Other table themes included:
- “Forever Desert Rose” by Titi Schouten and the Garden Club
- “A Flight of Fancy” by Lori Sequeira and Lia Stanley
- “Home, Our Succulent Oasis” by Lisa Bunker
- “Wine and Friends are a Great Blend” by Citrea Idelicato, Darla Pometta, and Nancy Lerno
- “Serving Up Support One Match at a Time” by the Westside Tennis Club and Heather Neguyen
- “Midnight Garden” by Nan Bunker
- “Ciao” by Tiffany Salsa
- “Let Your Worries Fall Away” by Rico, Pfitzer and Pires, Annette Cozzitorto, and Marina Bravo
- “Life is Black and White with a Touch of Red” by Pat Rocha
- “Summertime Fun” by Linda Ouse
- “A Harvest of Good Times” by Christine Eddington and the Newman Fall Festival
- “Only if You Believe” by Sonya Amaral
- “Gatsby Girls” by Vicky Snyder and Cheryl Pometta
- “Tickle Me Pink” by Loretta Rose
- “You, Me and A Cup of Tea” by Bernie Durossette
- “Here Comes Santa Claus” by Mary Ann Ventura
- “Keep Arts Alive” by the West Side Theatre Foundation and Loveada Fresquez
The event originated years ago at Pea Soup Anderson’s, but logistical challenges led the club to partner with the City of Gustine. In exchange for landscaping services outside the Al Goman Center, the club now uses the facility for its annual fundraiser—allowing for expanded participation and easier setup.
Proceeds from the event support the club’s special projects, including early discussions with the City of Newman about contributing to a nature walk currently in development.
“Nothing is concrete yet,” Rocha said, “but we are talking with them to see if there is something special they may want out there.”
The Newman–Gustine Garden Club meets the third Wednesday of each month, September through May, typically at Perry’s Pizza. Meetings feature guest speakers on topics ranging from vegetable gardening to tree care, and annual dues are $20. The club also organizes field trips, including a popular visit to a lavender farm.
With every table set and every flower placed, “A Garden of Tables” continues to be a celebration of creativity, community, and the enduring joy of gathering together.
