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WEIRTON -- The first meeting of the year took place for members of the Funseekers group Feb. 7 at Undo's in Weirton.
President Cathy DiBenedetto introduced guests Jeri Schaefer and Kim Sedfield to the 44 members in attendance.
Joann Bugin gave a short reading to open the meeting, followed by her leading in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Bugin began the singing of "God Bless America," and then said a blessing prior to the announcement of January and February birthdays and anniversaries.
Funseekers paused for a moment of silence to pay their respects in honoring the memory of former member Grant Starr.
Get-well wishes were extended to past president Judy Gaynor and long-time board member Barbara Jean Losey.
Members stopped for dinner, after which bingo was played for cash prizes. Winners included Barbara Purks, Phyllis Riapos, Robert Klepadio, Jean Dalfonso, Marlene Dunn, Sedfield, Roberta Antinone and Michelle Fabro.
The business meeting opened with the suspending of the December minutes and treasury reports.
John Balzano reported all Super Bowl boxes were sold and the board was available for members to check their numbers. Winners were to be notified after the game.
DiBenedetto thanked everyone for the toy donations they made in December, noting Bruce and Tabitha Herchek picked up the collection for distribution through the Young Marines' Toys for Tots program.
Members were asked to review the current list of birthdays and anniversaries, as several members' names were not included.
Officials announced there is a need for volunteers to provide door prizes at future meetings. The club reimburses members $100 for providing the door prizes.
DiBenedetto reviewed the plans for March's Funseekers meeting, stating members will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Breakfast Club, located in the Hollywood Plaza, where a dinner is planned.
Club officials said the meeting will feature the club's popular event, the Brown Bag Auction, with Balzano serving as auctioneer. Members were asked to bring with them a brown paper bag with an item of their choice hidden inside. The bags will be auctioned off as a fundraiser. Funseekers were asked to be prepared to join in on the bidding.
Roberta Antinone was the winner of the 50/50 drawing. Door prize winners included Valerie Rowland, Chris Sklenar, Marlene Dunn, Carl Truax, Iris Craig, Rose Chappano, Carolyn Wisnieski, Larry Purks, Bugin and Jean Dalfonso. Door prizes were supplied by DiBenetto and Joe DiBenedetto. Undo's gift certificates were won by Donna Balzano and Antinone.
DiBenetto reminded members the next meeting will be held today at the Breakfast Club and will feature the Brown Bag Auction.
Bugin led the closing blessing and the meeting was adjourned.