a Tribute to Greatness: Spirit of the Desert Event

November 9, 2008
Over 100 guests were in attendance at “A Tribute to Greatness: Spirit of the Desert” honoring former United States President and Mrs. Ford. The event was held at Thunderbird Country Club, where guests began the celebration with a champagne reception and enjoyed the clubhouse’s signature luncheon. The event was chaired by The Rev. Dr. Joseph Lund. Mr. Cash Baxter served as emcee while pianist Mr. Brent Reynolds entertained guests.

The Palm Desert High School Chamber Singers opened the event by singing the “Star-Spangled Banner.” The Rev. Dr. Roger Douglas of St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, the Ford family’s local place of worship, gave the invocation. The Right Reverend James Mathes, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, was on hand to present the honoree award to Susan Ford Bales, the Fords’ daughter. “We are humbled; it is with tremendous honor that we recognize the Ford family today,” Mathes said in his remarks.

After a brief overview of Episcopal Community Services’ programs in the Coachella Valley, Executive Director Lesslie Keller called upon The Rev. Roger Douglas to close the event with a touching prayer. Proceeds from the event will benefit Episcopal Community Services, specifically its programs in the Coachella Valley serving homeless and low-income individuals and families in need. It is estimated that over $10,000 was raised from the proceeds of the event.

Each year ECS honors an outstanding individual who has contributed to improving the quality of life for the most vulnerable and needy in the Coachella Valley. It was the unanimous decision of our Board of Directors that this year’s tribute is dedicated to Betty and Gerald Ford in recognition of their tireless work to improve the living conditions of troubled people in the area and to support the Episcopal Church.

Click here to view Spirit of the Desert photos

Event Leadership
The Rev. Dr. Joseph Lund
Chair

Mrs. Kay Bell
Luncheon Coordinator

Mr. Hap Blaisdell
Mr. Roy Cody
Mr. Andy Duvall
Ms. Christie Palmer
Mr. Steve Sharp

Honorary Hosts
The Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes
The Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Roger Douglas
The Rev. Andrew Green
Mr. & Mrs. Rick Green
Ms. Gloria Greer
Ms. Jean Ann Hirschi
Mr. & Mrs. Jim Houston
Mr. & Mrs. Maury Kemp
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Spiegel