'Love Songs' sails to success

Artistic Director Chad Berlinghieri of Cathedral Productions produced the Valentines event “Love Songs” aboard The Queen Mary to rave reviews.

As the capacity crowd entered the Queens Salon on Saturday, the feeling of nostalgia was immediate and overwhelming as one could tell that something very special was about to take place.

Downey Police Chaplain Greg Welch of Risher Mortuary provided the blessing over the meal and the night was off and running. The four-piece jazz ensemble played in the background as the cucumber wrapped Caesar salads were served before the entrée of Chicken Florentine drizzled in a basil cream sauce followed by Tiramisu for dessert… Dinner was divine!

In-between the courses the international quartet consisting of Teresa Mai, Roberto Gomez, Melissa Maricich, Chad Berlinghieri and accompanied by pianist Curtis Heard delighted the guests to a standing ovation with classic favorites taken from musical theater and the American Song Book.

The highlight of the evening was the vow renewal of Seal Beach residents Mr. Frank and Linda Park who were celebrating their fiftieth wedding anniversary that evening.

The event was fortunate to have in attendance Downey Mayor, Rick Rodriguez who honorably presided over the renewal ceremony. As the couple said, “I do” and kissed, the quartet sang “Love Me. That’s All I Ask of You!” There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

Following the ceremony, the belle of the ball Sister Eymard Flood of the Sisters of St. Clare dazzled the crowd with her witty jokes and reminded the audience that Cathedral Productions has now shipped and distributed over twelve hundred Isaiah House blankets to the homeless of Southern California in just the last three months.

Seal Beach Knights of Columbus, Risher Mortuary and Downey Rotary have all participated in underwriting the effort that has provided warmth to Downey TLC, Coast to Coast, St. Pius Mathies, St. Columbans and Isaiah House.

After the presentation, pop star Cooper Phillip in her fabulous black gown dazzled the packed dance floor with her spectacular vocals as Downey City Council member Claudia Frometa, her husband Nolveris and their bus load of elegant guests led the effort in dancing the night away. Love reigned supreme!