The Year in Review -
This past year has been very rewarding for me serving as your President because of the involvement of Everyone.
In August, Irene Slattery and Morina Chmielak arranged for back to school items collected by our generous members to be given to Englewood and Venice area schools for students in need.
The awarding of 4 adult learner scholarships thanks in part to funds raised at the Wine Tasting Event at the Venice Train Depot co chaired by Morina and Mary Ann Terry in October. Several members lovingly prepared hors d’oeuvres and also contacted local restaurants to provide trays of food. Joyce McCaffrey, who took time away from her wedding planning to contact the wine distributor to provide wines to taste and also to purchase. Cyndi Fredericks provided a professional banner of our sponsors and Natalie Bloom greeted everyone upon entry at the check-in table. Thanks to all who provided donations and again to Morina for putting them together in baskets. Most importantly, a special thank you to all in attendance participating in the raffles and in wine purchasing.
In November, a fundraiser at Kumo Restaurant who donated 15% of our bill to BPWEV plus a very generous donation by Joyce and her husband Chris Tritschler.
In December, Esther Bird organized a seminar entitled Hats Off to Women to include six pertinent topics for women, delicious lunch and also some lovely donations were raffled off to some lucky ladies in attendance.
Also in December, 3 single mothers with families selected by the Salvation Army were given donations provided by our members thanks to efforts of Karin Drury.
We began the year with our annual fundraising luncheon at the Chmielak home with a wonderful buffet and auction items to purchase with funds going to our Local Organization.
Last May, Irene Slattery organized a BFF event with a special menu at Left Coast to invite our Best Female Friends and Family. White tablecloths were provided by Morina and table decorations to make this enjoyable for all ladies in attendance.
Looking forward to 2019-2020 because of your past generosity and involvement at our monthly meetings and fundraising events.
Syd Gibson