Community

Members of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Mingo discuss Wreaths Across America

MINGO JUNCTION -- Members of the GFWC Woman's Club of Mingo met at Bay 6 for their April meeting and discussed the Wreaths Across America event.

Co-President Stephanie Rouse welcomed those in attendance, saying of the event, "The group is very appreciative of everyone who supported the club in this project."

Various organizations and individuals were thanked for their contributions toward the day's events, including the Mingo Knights of Columbus.

Rouse stated in addition to making a donation, the Knights provided refreshments for the opening ceremony and permitted the use of their hall.

Also noted for their generosity towards the event were: An anonymous, retired veteran for his large monetary donation; Pestas market; James Huggins Sr.; Wheeler Funeral Home; Chiropractic of Weirton; veterans who helped place wreaths; the Mingo and Steubenville fire departments; Mingo police; village workers volunteering their time; and the First United Presbyterian Church for storing wreaths.

"We want to thank all of the local businesses that donated, local clubs that donated, individuals who donated, everyone who participated in the opening ceremony, woman's club members and especially those friends and families who purchased wreaths for the veteran's graves," Rouse concluded.

Co-president Janet Petrella introduced guest speaker Becky Foster, volunteer ombudsman associate with long-term care facilities in Jefferson County's department on aging.

"I am a problem solver for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Jefferson County," Foster told the club. "This is a volunteer position. I visit each of our 11 facilities in the county monthly, speaking to residents, seeing if they have needs they need help with."

"I can speak on their behalf to the staff to help solve problems and make their stay more comfortable," she continued. "I advise residents of their rights while in the long-term care facilities. I speak to groups such as your women's club to educate people on the ombudsman program in the state of Ohio.."

Foster continued, "Many people do not even know of its existence. We are here to serve our residents in facilities and make sure they are treated with care, kindness and respect. This is a free-of-charge service. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak to your women's club."

She noted she enjoyed her time spent at the ladies' meeting and provided members with brochures, answering questions. Foster was given a token of appreciation by the club, to which she donated it back to the group, who in turn, donated it to Bay 6.

Also during the April meeting, Roetta Lewis gave the invocation, followed by the club collect and pledge. She, along with Treasurer Kathy Maguschak, gave the monthly reports. Mary Jane Tiberio reported on correspondence received from AIM, Wounded Warriors, a thank you from the family of Stella Finnegan and a message from Mary Beth Allen, past southeast district president, for her time spent with the club.

The club also:

Announced four members attended Legislation Day in Cambridge: Rouse, Petrella, Lewis and Sharon Cole Isner.

Stated a donation was given to Bay 6 for its Easter project.

Noted Rouse is in charge of the Rada Cutlery fundraiser.

Stated winners of the door prizes were Tiberio and Petrella.

Relayed the next meetings to take place: A regular monthly meeting in May, with Maguschak serving as hostess; and June's meeting will be a picnic at Aracoma Park.