Let us report on our February monthly meeting which was held last Thursday evening. It was our first meeting at The Hub and we really dazzled the audience. The highlight of the renovations/transformation of our new space is the beautiful door leading to the downstairs storage area. The Executive Committee surprised me with the unveiling as the door is painted as “Evelyn’s Attic” (Josue Mendez did all the murals/painting of The Hub).
The audience included a number of new SIGC volunteer members which we love mixed in with some of our “regulars.” Many of our regulars were basking in the sunshine of TX, FL, etc. and we were envious as it was so brutally cold here.
Content of the meeting was very substantive and interesting. Our guest speaker was Lisa Barra from Bayway Refineries. As you should all know, Bayway granted us $20,000 toward the end of 2024 which was earmarked for our Adopt-a-Pantry initiative. Then Thursday during her jaunty talk/speech to us, she announced that once again in 2025, Bayway will be donating proceeds from its Annual Golf Outing to the Giving Circle. That donation is traditionally given for the WFBP. Lisa gave an overview of all that Bayway does for its community service and gave us a better understanding of Bayway’s depth and business acumen.
The winners of our Charity Raffle were both delighted Thursday. Laura Norden won $170 which was donated to VISIONS For the Blind, and Patty Ann Palacino generously donated her $170 to the Military Food Pantry.
We reviewed the activities of all our Sub-Committees and there was much to tell. The Kids in Crisis and Seniors’ Group are both forging ahead with activities for those two populations. The Seniors Sub-Committee is meeting next week (March 4) to set our dates and activities for this quarter year and beyond. The Kids will be enjoying another birthday party with that date to be set soon by Damaris. We also hope to partner with Ricardo Villella to host a paint party led by Josue Mendez for kids. This will be held at The Hub at a date to be determined soon. The Literacy group is holding a March 13 meeting. We were pleased to sign on a couple of new SIGC people to the Literacy group last Thursday. Remember if you are interested in any of the Sub-Committees mentioned, please let one of us know so you can join the fray. Linda’s School/Junior Giving Circles summary was, as always impressive. Collections and fun activities abound.
The Military Food Pantry, of course, got very well-deserved attention as we were sitting in the pantry for the meeting. That idea/project has taken on a life of its own. Kathy said because of its growth, we need more drivers to deliver food to the homebound. Please come forward to help with this if you can. Thursday of this week is this month’s food distribution and delivery. We’ll report next Tuesday on what we know will be a huge success once again.
Our next monthly meeting is Thursday evening, March 20 – the First Day of Spring at 7:00 p.m. at The Hub. |
