Mermaids kick off year with first meeting, announcing 2024 events

The Mermaids of Canyon Lake held its first meeting of the year at the Canyon Lake Senior Center. Known for their quarterly meetings and active involvement in fundraising, the club is ideal for Canyon Lake women seeking engagement without the commitment to monthly meetings.

Membership is accessible at $20 per year, with the expectation that members participate in general meetings and assist in at least one fundraising event annually.

A new 2024 Board of Directors was introduced at the meeting. Kathy Ray was installed as the new president. Others on the board consist of, Nicole Taylor as Membership/Vice President, Kim Pauley as Recording Secretary, Shelli Lewis as Treasurer, Brenda Lees as Parliamentarian, Nicole Verilinich as Social Media Director and Natassia Wright as Events Coordinator.

Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

Looking ahead, the Mermaids have a lineup of eagerly anticipated events. Members are encouraged to mark their calendars and secure tickets early, as these events are known to sell out quickly:

Mermaids Afternoon Tea (March 9): A day filled with mermaid-themed activities and tea, promising whimsy and enchantment.

Derby Days (May 4): This event features men racing in kayaks in a format reminiscent of a Derby Horse Race, with women in Derby attire cheering them on and enjoying treats.

Casino Night (June 29): A night of entertainment and games, adding a touch of excitement to the summer.

The Mermaids of Canyon Lake is a nonprofit organization that supported several charities in 2023, including Huey’s Hero’s Reading Program, the Riverside County Coalition for Alternatives to Domestic Violence, and the Helping Hands group. Additionally, it contributed to the Canyon Lake Senior Center, Canyon Lake Theater Group, and National Angel Project.

A special project undertaken by the Mermaids was the creation of a free 2024 Canyon Lake Calendar, paid for by contributing local businesses. The calendar features photos of the area contributed by local individuals as part of a Mermaids photo contest. The calendars are currently being distributed.

For more information about joining the Mermaids of Canyon Lake, details on upcoming events, or how to make a donation, visit the club’s website at www.mermaidsofcanyonlake.org. This club offers a unique blend of community involvement, philanthropy, and fun.