Celebrate, Collaborate, Communicate: Women’s Club International Convention

Representing the Women’s Club of Farmingdale (WCF) at the 2023 General Federation Of Women’s Clubs (GWFC) International Annual Convention were Linda Kreussling, Tina Diamond and Vicky Impollonia. Representatives from women’s clubs throughout the world were in attendance and can be seen making “no sew” blankets for Canine Companions for Independence.

Some of the highlights included speakers, workshops, and presentation of awards. Guests also had time to visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, Churchill Downs, Big Four Bridge and the Louisville Bourbon District.

Presentation of the prestigious Jane Cunningham Croly Award for Excellence in Journalism was presented to Anna Claire Vollers, a reporter with Reckon News, which covers national issues through the lens of historically marginalized communities. “Jane Cunningham was a pioneering journalist who devoted her life to helping women improve their lives and expand their rights,” stated Deb Strahanoski, GFWC Int’l President.

Several speakers included: Robin Yocum, fiction crime writer; Mariama Whyte, creative entrepreneur who is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, actor, speaker, coach and author; Shannon Whyte, a nonprofit executive with more than 20 years of experience in both public and private sector leadership roles, who leads The Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association; and Sheri Klym, Gala Keynote Speaker and Director, Memberships and Associations, Alzheimer’s Association.

GFWC is encouraging all clubs to join the National Day of Service (NDS) on September 30, where all clubs come together in service to highlight an area of need, take action to address it, and raise public awareness about its importance. This received nationwide accolades and support from clubwomen in attendance.

—Submitted by Maria Ortolani of the The Women’s Club Of Farmingdale

Welcoming Summer With A Barbecue

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker recently joined his colleagues in government and the more than 100 members of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Seniors Club at the Jamaica Avenue School in Plainview for the Club’s annual barbecue. During the celebration, Legislator Drucker recognized President Carol Kokol for her leadership of the organization as her term draws to a close.

“It’s always a pleasure to welcome the summer and celebrate the conclusion of a wonderful season with the vibrant and engaging members of the Plainview-Old

Bethpage Seniors Club,” Legislator Drucker said. “Throughout their lives, our seniors have made – and continue to make – tremendous contributions to our society, and we all must do whatever we can to support, advocate for and serve and protect these esteemed community members. Thank you to outgoing President Carol Kokol and her entire team for working so diligently on behalf of everyone who benefits from the programs offered by the Plainview-Old Bethpage Seniors Club!”

—Submitted by the Office of Legislator Arnold W. Drucker

(Contributed photos)

(Contributed photo)

Women’s 5k Presented By Bethpage Federal Credit Union

Sponsors, beneficiaries and local officials recently got together to promote the July 8th Runner’s Edge LI Women’s 5K presented by Bethpage Federal Credit Union. This long-running event, taking place at Farmingdale HS and through the streets of Farmingdale, celebrates women’s running on Long Island. It also features a 1/4 mile fun run open to all kids! The event benefits these wonderful organizations: Black Girls Run, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County and Girls on the Run. The event is produced by the Greater Long Island Running Club and directed by Mindy Davidson.

Pictured is Paul Curtis (Runner’s Edge), Daisy Indelicato (BFCU), Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph S. Saladino, Nassau County Legislator Rose Walker, Shirel Johnson (Black Girls Run), Mindy Davidson (Greater LI Running Club), Nyrekia White (Girl Scouts of Suffolk County), Town of Oyster Bay Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, Lisa Fischer (Northwell Health’s Katz Institute for Women’s Health), Doreen Dunne (Girls on the Run), and Bridgette DaSilva (BFCU).

—Submitted by Bethpage Federal Credit Union