DMF: A Time of Thanks

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, my thoughts turn to gratitude for all of the gifts of time, talent, and treasure that have benefitted the Foundation in 2025.  Thirty events/programs were produced this year, including 9 First Thursday concerts, 4 Summer Twilight concerts, 5 DMF Talks, 2 Bluegrass & Beyond concerts, 2 Meet & Greet Happy Hours, 2 children’s events at Easter and Halloween, 2 dog get-togethers, the 4^th of July Parade, and the Community Picnic.  None of these would have been possible without the volunteers and financial support of our Del Mar community.  I would like to highlight 3 special volunteers whose Board of Directors terms will be expiring soon and have contributed so much.

Jeff Barnouw has served as the Chair of the Cultural Arts Committee and Board member from 2019–2025.  He has guided the selection and production of six wonderful seasons of First Thursday concerts.  His knowledge of the San Diego classical music scene and his welcoming, exuberant personality remain his strengths.

Alan Lonbom stepped off the Board after six years as DMF Treasurer and Board member.  Alan’s longstanding accounting background provided the leadership for the Foundation’s fiscal management and health from 2019-2025.  As a member of the Grants and Investment committees, his input has been invaluable.

Betty Wheeler contributes to DMF in so many ways: 2 Board terms (2006-2013, 2019-2025), DMF President 2020-2022, Chair of the Development and Communications committees, integral participant on Cultural Arts and Nominating committees. Her energy, time, and DMF historical knowledge are keys to DMF’s successes over the years.

Finally, I want to acknowledge and thank the over 200 individuals and companies that have donated to the Foundation in 2024-2025.  These generous financial gifts allow us to complete our Mission of serving the Del Mar Community.