The Tehama County Photo Club recently celebrated its 21st anniversary with a special evening filled with stories, laughter, photographs, and good friends. It was a wonderful chance to look back on the club’s history and enjoy the company of people who have helped shape it over the years.
The club began on June 29, 2005, when nine photographers gathered at the home of Tony and Beth Maxey. Those founding photographers were Tony and Beth Maxey, Bob Grace, Melissa Mendonca, Danny and Dianne Rabalais, Barbara Luzzadder, Judi Richins, and Dave Figoni.
John Luzzadder, Barbara’s husband, was also part of the club’s early circle and has been a steady presence at club activities over the years.
The idea for the club grew out of conversations between Beth Maxey, Barbara Luzzadder, and Melissa Mendonca. They wanted to create a friendly place where photographers could learn from one another, share ideas, and enjoy each other’s company.
Founding member Danny Rabalais may have said it best when he described the club’s purpose as a place to “look at pictures and eat snacks.” That simple phrase still captures much of the club’s spirit today.
From those first founding members, the club has grown into an active and welcoming group for photographers of all skill levels. Over the years, members have taken part in workshops, field trips, exhibits, photo contests, and many evenings of sharing images and ideas. Just as important, the club has created lasting friendships.
Nearly all of the founding members were able to attend the anniversary celebration. Founding member Bob Grace, who has passed away, and Melissa Mendonca, who now lives in New Mexico, were both warmly remembered during the evening.
Past club leaders were also recognized, including founder Tony Maxey, former coordinators Karen Roy Crockett and Vikki Bettman—fondly known as the “Co-Queens”—Robert Bird, who now lives in Texas and was unable to attend, and current Club Leader Bob McConnell. Their dedication, along with the efforts of many other members over the years, has helped the club grow, thrive, and continue inspiring photographers throughout Tehama County.
The evening was a reminder that while faces and leaders may change, the heart of the club remains the same.
A sincere thank-you goes to everyone who helped plan and set up the reunion, brought refreshments, shared photographs and memories, and helped make the evening such a success. Gatherings like this happen because people are willing to give their time, energy, and talents.
The Tehama County Photo Club also thanks the Tehama County Arts Council for the use of its beautiful facility. It was a perfect setting for celebrating more than two decades of photography, friendship, and community.
As the club begins its 22nd year, we look forward to welcoming new photographers and continuing the tradition that began in 2005: learning together, sharing photographs, encouraging one another, and, of course, still finding time to “look at pictures and eat snacks.”
Attendees: Bob McConnell, Judy Turner, Tony Maxey, Beth Maxey, Judi Richin, Dave Figoni, Danny Rabalais, Dianne Rabalais, Karent Crockett, Tina Radamaker, Vikki Bettman, Barbara Luzzadder, John Lussadder, Dana Hinkle, Joel Reinhard, Jim Huffman, Michelle Turner, Bruce Perkin, and Mary Perkin.