Community

Wintersville Woman’s Club puts a focus on membership

WINTERSVILLE -- The Wintersville Woman's Club met on May 18 at the St. Florian Event Center with President Iris Craig presiding over the 27 members in attendance. This month's program focused on membership. Marjean Sizemore explained to members the value of membership within the General Federation of Women's Clubs. Mary Beth Allan presented a memorial to Ella Jane Burns, a long-time member who died in 2022.

The following individuals were recognized for their length of membership: Allan, five years; Craig, Shannon Irvin and Pat Ketzell, more than 50 years in the GFWC; Joyce Palmer and Lil Ferguson, 15 years; Judy Anastasio and Judy Weaver, 40 years; Pat Daily, 40 years; and Imogene Louk, 65 years.

Craig presented those who have earned perfect attendance with an award. Recipients were Craig, Claudia Dorich, Karen Hill, Judy Ostrowsky and Tyra Timmons. Special awards were given to Craig, Ferguson, Kathy Frey, Dorich, Aimee Jaros, Sizemore, Kassy Doughty and Tara Dzvonick.

The following members were initiated, Karen Josefczyk, sponsored by Pat Ketzell; Janet Liggett, sponsored by Carol Yaich; Debra Louk, sponsored by Allan; and Lynn Taliani, sponsored by Allan. Meditation and grace were given by Sizemore.

The business meeting opened with the pledge and club collect, led by Timmons. Roll call was taken by Michalene King, posing the question, "Any plans for the summer?"

Minutes were approved, with one correction. The treasury report was presented by Treasurer Karen Hill. The balance of both accounts was $11,251.01. Corresponding Secretary Jaros reported she received four, "thank you" notes and sent out May birthday cards.

Ostrowsky reported on arts and culture, saying the club won a state award for its program on the "Nutcrackers." She asked members to think about a Christmas craft they could do for nursing homes.

Dorich reported for the scholarship committee, stating the following students were awarded scholarships, Elijah Llewellyn, the Glenda Dunlope Scholarship; Victoria Redmond, the Wintersville Woman's Club Scholarship; and Hailey Doan, the Franciscan University Scholarship, which is matched by the university.

Craig reported Palmer is stepping down as chair of the civic engagement and outreach committee, adding a new chairperson will need to be named for the 2023-24 year.

Hill reported on the environment, stating the Wands for Wildlife project will be discontinued. She announced the committee will sponsor a new fundraiser in the coming year.

"We will collect used tennis shoes that will be recycled and will receive money for every pair," Hill said. "The money raised will be used to purchase a Buckeye tree that we will plant in Wintersville on Arbor Day 2024." She reminded members about the hazardous waste drop-off event at the Fort Steuben Mall, June 17.

It was noted the club collected 51 pairs of glasses during the 2022-23 club year which were donated to the Lions Club.

Craig reported on the state convention and listed awards the club received. Member Natalie Doty won a prize for her poem.

Hill presented an award to the district winner of the seventh-grade essay contest, John "J.P." Wilson, who was sponsored by the club.

Craig reported the magnetic name tags have arrived and members may take theirs with them to be worn at meetings. She announced leadership day is scheduled for July 22 at the Embassy Suites in Columbus. Any member who is interested in attending can contact her for information about registration.

Craig announced Taylor will assume the duties of second vice president for the coming year and the next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 21.