The Flip Acrobatic Club from Piran, Slovenia, performed in Southern California Nov. 1.

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. — The Flip Acrobatic Club from Piran, Slovenia, came to the beautiful Orange Coast of California Nov. 1 for a great beach party. It was a glorious day at Salt Creek State Beach. It was so clear and warm, you could almost touch Catalina Island.

Attending were approximately 40 members of the acrobatic club, and over 40 Lodge members and friends as well as families from the San Diego area, which is where the acrobats stayed during the early part of their visit. The members of the club were mostly girls ages 11-15, but there were a few boys and coaches who also got into the act. The one hour performance featured a lot of comedy, flips, tosses, dances and costume changes, all done to music.

Of course, the show attracted a lot of folks down at the beach who took advantage of the great entertainment. As for our group, they were all treated to burgers and brats grilled by Arnie and Ken Koci, as well as generous portions of fruits, veggies, chips, cheese and crackers, and cookies. Thanks so much to everyone who brought the extras to share. Thanks as well to Chuck and Diane Blasick, and Norbert and Ana Bernhardt who came early to help us transport the beverages and supplies it takes to feed over 80 people. It was a long walk from the parking lot, but the trip was really worth it!

It was great seeing Stasja Mehora, the director of Flip, along with her son Mitja and counselors Robert and Patricia, who are also involved parents in the program. Stasja is such a devoted leader of this group. Her 9-year-old twin grandchildren took part in the performance, their first time in the U.S. The first time we were involved with the group, the twins were newborns and not able to travel, but now they are an integral part of the action. And so, another fun day on the Orange Coast!

By the time you read this, we will have hosted another event featuring friends from across the sea. The Slowind Quintet from Ljubljana performed Nov. 7. Don’t forget Family Twosome Bowling Friday, Nov. 27, and the Lodge Christmas party Dec. 6. For information contact me at (949) 495-0097 or ajkoci@cox.net.