WINTERSVILLE — The 31 members and one guest attending the April 17 meeting of the GFWC Wintersville Woman’s Club, were welcomed by President Cheryl Taylor.

Taylor began the meeting by thanking the fundraising committee for serving as the afternoon’s hostesses.

She encouraged members to contribute to the breast cancer basket and the Mohican Memorial Forest and Shrine jar.

Recording Secretary Mary Beth Allan introduced her guest, Maureen Giandomenico, daughter-in-law of member Sylvia Giandomenico.

Judy Weaver presented meditation and grace prior to the group’s monthly luncheon.

The Pledge of Allegiance and club collect were led by Vice President Karen Josefczyk. Attendance was taken by Allan, who posed the question, “What was your favorite dessert that your mother made?” Everyone went around the room and responded with memories of the dessert they liked the best from their mom.

Minutes from the March meeting were approved. Treasurer Karen Hill provided the treasurer’s report, and informed members the balance of the club stood at $13,975. The report will be filed for audit.

Hill reminded members about their $35 club dues, which should be submitted by May 31.

Corresponding Secretary Michalene King reported five cards were sent to members celebrating an April birthday.

Membership Chairman Pat Ketzell encouraged those gathered to bring a guest to the club’s next meeting, scheduled for noon on Thursday at St. Florian Hall. She stated member initiation will be held this month.

Scholarship Chairman Claudia Dorich reported she received five applications from high school seniors interested in receiving a scholarship from the club. The committee stated they would choose the finalists, who will be recognized during Thursday’s meeting.

The meeting will focus on membership and leadership, with the guest speaker being Marti Leake, coordinator of RSVP — one of the largest volunteer networks for people 55 and older.

In the matter of old business, officials stated luxury tax calendars were due, with proceeds to be sent to GFWC Ohio and used toward helping with convention expenses, as well as the Great Lakes Region Conference in Columbus during October. The GFWC Ohio Convention was held in Dublin April 24-27. Those attending included Allan, Hill, Aimee Jaros, Ketzell, Taylor, Marjean Sizemore and Tyra Timmons.

Taylor said she received a response from State Rep. Ron Ferguson, R-Wintersville, in regard to encouraging legislation for potential cuts to library funds. She thanked all those who reached out.

Under new business, the board received and accepted with regret, the resignation of Josefczyk as vice president, due to family and health issues. She will continue as an associate member. The nominating committee will search for her replacement.

The women discussed December’s Holiday Splendor event — their largest fundraiser of the year — held at St. Florian Hall. Members were asked to sign up to donate basket items that will be used in this year’s Chinese auction.

Officials noted the need for an earlier start. Donations will have to be turned in at an earlier deadline than before, so as to have time to prepare the baskets.

Business letters will need to be sent out earlier as well, to allow ample time to add those donations to the baskets and have programs printed. Committee members commented a door prize chairman and vendors chairman are still needed for the event.

Those in attendance discussed the First Wednesdays in Wintersville event, noting its co-chairman, Joel John, contacted the club to see if members would get involved with the festival again this year. Members responded that in July, it may be possible to collect flags through the presence of one of the their flag boxes. The club would be located inside the Center of Hope at Wintersville Methodist Church.

Volunteers would be needed during the event, so that ribbons can be cut along Main Street in order to attract attention, officials said.