Blog from the desk of www.santafehospitalitygroup.com
It was a privilege to be included in the celebration of Lalo Ortega's retirement from La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe.
Those among the celebrators who are not family members basked in the love and spirit shared by Lalo's "kids".... all of them.
In January, 2010, after six decades as "The Captain" at Santa Fe's LaFonda on the Plaza, Lalo Ortega retired from his position as ambassador to generations of guests
visiting and staying at the historic hostelry. Lalo and five other loyal and long-term employees (almost three hundred years in total) took simultaneous retirement.
On Saturday. August 28th, Lalo's family - who live throughout the country - gathered in Santa Fe to celebrate the retirement of The Captain in a style that brought tears to the eyes of all honored guests.
Thirty great-grandchildren, twenty-six grandchildren, five children and four siblings (all 80+ years of age and thriving) as well as friends and colleagues gathered to pay tribute to a gentleman who, at 82, can still "cut a
rug"; he demonstrated that ability with his daughter and grandchildren on the dance floor.
Bragging rights were dusted off and the list of celebrities - ranging from Presidents to Kings and Quees - from Supreme Court Justices to world renowned artists and movie stars - from couples celebrating their 50th
anniversaries to those of known and unknown origin... all greeted by Lalo ... all very likely wishing him only the best. By government proclamation, August 28, 2010, is Lalo Ortega Day in the state of New Mexico..
Lalo and his beautiful wife (now deceased) were featured in a twenty minute video that shared and spanned the generations of their lives. It's hard to imagine that a more heartfelt tribute to a warm and
wonderful couple could be experienced anywhere else - ever; a true joy to behold and enjoy...and a real celebration of the heart and the family spirit.
Lalo - thanks for sharing your life and your special day with us! We feel privileged to have been included in your festivities..
Enjoy the rest of your life - with the same caring spirit with which you've embraced all of us who know you.
Have fun!
