Happy Holidays! Hopefully you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Thank you to all the gardeners that have been out working around town cleaning up the West End and the Post Office, getting ready for winter and keeping McMinnville looking great. Thanks to Judy, Charlene and Dian for their leadership and getting everyone out there.
Thank you to Judy for getting us in the parade and rallying the Rakettes for a successful fun time at the Santa Parade and Tree Lighting. Thank you to Sharalie and her crew for winning $100 with their beautiful scarecrow entry. If it was a Disney movie there would be crows sitting on her shoulders talking it up. Thank you, Colleen, for continuing to open up your “husband’s workshop” for all our arts and crafts projects. During this cold weather it is a warm and cozy spot with a warm fire to take off the chill. They are such valuable connecting events for our members to get to know each other in a kicked-back setting.
There are so many to thank but what I am most thankful for this year is, all the dynamic people in this garden club. I have had the pleasure of getting to know some of you and I have been so impressed with all that you do. Many of you have a passion or interest and you have channeled that into working on and contributing to the various activities. The reason we have such a vibrant club that has lasted for 100 years is because of all of you. You make us what we are. I would like to get to know more of you so please, come to our luncheon where we will have the time to visit and enjoy each other’s company.
As we all are aware December is the month of giving; please help us remember those who are less fortunate. We will be collecting money for Henderson House, A Family Place, Juliette’s House and YCAP at the Holiday Luncheon.
YCAP (the Yamhill Community Action Partnership) runs the local food bank, but also helps with energy assistance, rental assistance, housing stabilization, and services for youth. Henderson House helps victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human sex trafficking. They provide crisis intervention, an emergency 90-day shelter and service referrals for help with beginning a new safe life. Juliette’s House goal is a world free from child abuse. They provide assessment, treatment, and support for children and families affected by abuse. A Family Place is run by the Lutheran Community Services. They assist young families who have little support and are facing multiple stressors. They provide a relief nursery, home visits, parent education, and give out diapers.
The Holidays are also a special time to be with family and friends, enjoying the time we can spend together. I look forward to seeing many of you at the Holiday Luncheon. If I don’t see you at the luncheon have a very Happy Holidays!
Rita
