To the Editor:
The GFWC Peninsula’s Women’s Club becomes “official” tonight, Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012. Representatives from the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs will conduct a Charter Ceremony and induct our club into an organization of women that has been actively serving the communities of New Jersey since 1894. By signing our state charter, the Peninsula Women’s Club also joins the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. We are very excited to be joining the Federation, an institution with a tradition of addressing social issues affecting women and families and a rich history of service and volunteerism.
It is a privilege to be the newest member of the oldest and one of the world’s largest women’s volunteer organizations. At such a momentous moment, we would be remiss if we did not thank the members of the Bayonne community who helped us to get started. Working in conjunction with the Bayonne Moms Meetup Group, our first event, “Read for the Record,” held on Oct. 6, 2011, was a great kick-off for our club. It would not have been a success without the assistance of the Bayonne Public Library and staff. Much appreciation to Sneh Bains, Paula Micalizzi, and Elaine Reichert for the use of the Children’s Room, as well as their assistance in publicizing and in preparing for the event.
Thanks also to Stop & Shop Supermarket, Scholastic Books, and our “anonymous” donor for providing the funds with which we purchased crafting supplies and giveaways. With their generosity, we were able to provide 40 local children with a “record breaking” experience and spread the love of reading to the youngest members of our community. On Dec. 3, 2011, the PWC hosted a “Breakfast with Santa” fundraiser at the Broadway Diner. Much appreciation goes to owner Rocky Coviello for his generous donation to our club. Thanks, as well, to the staff of the Broadway Diner for all their hard work that morning.
We cannot forget to thank George Lynch for his assistance in bringing Santa to life. Thanks to Scholastic Books, Bonnie Congiu, and Lisa Cerbone for the donations that provided the gifts and photo giveaways. Many local children received free photos with Santa along with a gift because of you all. Our continuing thanks to Rev. Gregory Perez, Rev. Rose Hassan, and Trinity Parish for the use of their parish hall for our monthly meetings.
Finally, special thanks to the 18 “charter members” of the PWC, as well as to the other members who have joined us along the way. Your volunteerism, generosity, pride in our community, and camaraderie are what makes this club special. We look forward to many years of “Striving for a Better Community” with you all.
STACEY LYNCH
Secretary
Peninsula Women’s Club
On behalf of the PWC Executive Board