By Wanda Ashcraft
The GFWC-WV Woman’s Club of Shinnston met Monday, August 21, 2023 at 6 pm in the Club House on Bridge Street with Co-President Debra Herndon presiding, She welcomed all and the flag salute was given in unison.
Wanda F. Ashcraft presented devotions, ending with prayer.
Herndon presented the program on the June 23, 1944 Shinnston Tornado. Exhibited were several pictures, clippings and books for viewing. Herndon discussed what was going on in the world and society when the tornado struck, read some of the first-hand accounts and related how the tornado is covered in the internet.
She noted the Shinnston Tornado is ranked number 15 in the list of the worst tornados in the U.S.
A short business meeting followed. Herndon reported a successful rummage sale with proceeds going to club house maintenance. The co-presidents and 1 st vice-president had met to plan new programs for the year. Members were asked to provide some ideas and sign up for devotions and refreshments.
Kathleen Panek will again coordinate the Annual Bean Dinner, to be held October 26 th . The dinner is the club’s largest fundraiser. Panek explained the way members could be involved, especially in providing cakes for the dinner.
Panek recognized the Starkey family for all their help to make the dinner a success each year.
Some improvements to the Club House were discussed. Herndon invited members to the October 7 th Museum program, “Early Shinnston Businesses,” which will be co-sponsored by the Shinnston Historical Association and the Museum.
Mary Ann Spadafore, Mary Ann Ferris, Connie Leuliette and Donna Mick all attended Summer Conference and shared information from that meeting. A card was passed around for member Beverly Miller.
Tasty refreshments including antipasto squares, Jello salad chips and drinks were provided by the month’s hostesses, Mary Ann Ferris and Mary Ann Spadafore.
Present, not previously mentioned were: Deborah Starkey, Viviane Spagnuolo, Judith Wilson and Willa Jean Green. Also present were guests Mary (Cookie) Maley and Robert P. (Bobby) Bice III.
